Silence weighed on the ruins of the council chamber like a heavy shroud.
Ivy knelt beside the Oracle’s lifeless body, her hand trembling as she closed the woman’s eyes. The fading mark on her own chest still pulsed with warm light—proof of what had just occurred. Proof of the Oracle’s final decision.
“She chose me,” Ivy murmured.
Kael was behind her instantly, his presence grounding. “She didn’t just choose you. She saw who you are. Who you were meant to be.”
Ember stood nearby, scanning the ruined chamber. “We need to move. The council is fractured, and there are still rogue wolves in the mountain.”
“No.” Ivy rose, slowly but with purpose. Her voice was hoarse, but laced with authority. “No more hiding. No more waiting for them to strike. I need to be seen.”
Kael looked at her, his
