Silence filled the Council Chamber like a living thing.
Victoria’s words still hung in the air.
“I think the first Blood Wolf just spoke to me.”
No one moved.
No one breathed properly.
Even the glowing runes beneath their feet seemed to pulse more slowly, as though the chamber itself was listening.
Then, very quietly, Luca spoke.
“That’s… not something people say casually.”
Victoria exhaled shakily.
“I’m aware.”
The silver markings beneath her skin had not fully faded. Thin traces still shimmered along her wrists, like fading lightning trapped under her skin.
The wolf inside her was restless.
Not aggressive.
Not fearful.
Alert.
As if it had heard something important and was waiting for instructions it didn’t fully understand.
The Hunter broke the silence first.
“Did she ap
