From the shadows of the crumbling temple ruins, Moira watched as she shifted back into her human skin, pale and elegant. Her lips curled into a knowing smile.
"So, the prophecy awakens," she whispered. "Let's see what choice you make, little wolf."
Then, like smoke on wind, she vanished into the trees.
The journey back to Silver fang Territory was quiet, heavy with unspoken tension. As the ancient gate opened and Aria with the rest, passed through the threshold, a lone sentinel rushed toward them, Galen, the pack's swiftest runner and loyal messenger.
"Alpha Thorne," he bowed, breathless. "The Council summons you. Tonight. Under the blood moon. At the sacred grove."
Alpha Thorne's jaw tightened. "So soon…"
"They wish to address the rogue attacks," Galen continued, his eyes briefly flicking to Aria. "And the girl."
Ren groaned. "What is it with these elders and moonlight meetings? Do they not sleep?"
Kael said nothing, already heading toward the mansion.
