The camp at Fallen Starlake was quieter than any army had a right to be.
Tents lined the frozen shore, a patchwork of rebel banners, outlaw sigils, and rogue healer marks. Wolves of every rank, every forgotten bloodline, had answered the silent summons.
Seph stood at the lake's edge, watching stars tremble on the glassy surface. Her breath fogged the air.
Behind her, Leo's voice murmured, “You don't sleep much anymore."
“I sleep enough to remember what I shouldn't."
He joined her. “They're scared. Half of them think we're cursed. The other half want to crown you."
“Then both halves are wrong."
Leo looked at her. “You don't want power?"
“I want peace."
“You'll never have it if we lose this war."
“I know."
She turned to face him. “But if we win by becoming the monsters Selene pain
