Lyra didn’t go looking for answers.
They found her anyway.
It started quietly.
Whispers.
Low voices drifting through the halls, conversations that stopped the moment she walked past—but not fast enough.
“…already left at dawn…”
“…northern alliance confirmed…”
“…she’s with him…”
Lyra’s steps slowed.
Just slightly.
But enough.
Her chest tightened before her mind could catch up.
She kept walking.
Tried to ignore it.
Tried to pretend she didn’t hear anything.
But the words followed her.
Clung to her.
She’s with him.
Lyra swallowed, her fingers tightening slightly around the edge of the table as she stopped in the common area.
A few pack members stood nearby, talking in hushed tones.
They glanced at her—
Then quickly looked away.
That told her everything.
“What are you ta
