The path dropped sharply from the ridge, snow snapping beneath their boots—wind cut off the frozen lake, carrying iron and old stone. Obsidian Ridge rose behind black cliffs crowned with frost, ancient teeth guarding the shore. It had protected their bloodline for centuries. Today, it felt watchful. Uneasy.
Talia stayed on the flatter sandbars; one hand anchored to her belly. The cubs shifted beneath her palm—three small, insistent pulses that never let her forget what was at stake.
“Careful,” she said without turning. “The rocks glaze fast near the water.”
Alina adjusted her footing, then snorted. “I’m not the one carrying the future of the kingdom.”
But her gaze softened as it slid back to Talia’s stomach.
“I can feel them,” Alina added, quieter now. “Kara hums when I’m near you. Th
