Jolie POV
The neutral grounds weren't neutral at all.
Wolves lined every inch of the ancient stone circle. I saw them watching as we rode in. Hundreds of them, maybe thousands. All here to watch me die.
"Stay close." Ryder's voice came through our new bond.
I nodded because I couldn’t speak. My throat was too tight as my heart hammered against my ribs.
The combat circle sat in the center of a clearing, surrounded by pine trees so old they'd probably seen the first wolves walk the earth. The stones were carved with runes that glowed faintly in the morning light, pulsing with power.
Council members sat on a raised platform. Five of them, all ancient alphas who'd probably forgotten what it felt like to be scared. Councilor Ironwood was in the center, his hair bright against his dark r
