THIRD POV
The atmosphere in the clearing had shifted entirely now.
The elevation rite was no longer the center of attention.
Now, everything revolved around the final stage.
The sealing.
Several Stonevale wolves had arrived moments earlier under Darren’s orders and immediately began digging at the far side of the clearing beneath the trees.
The sound of shovels cutting through earth echoed repeatedly through the night air.
Heavy.
Rhythmic.
Dirt piled steadily beside the growing pit while moonlight filtered weakly through the branches overhead.
None of the wolves digging questioned what they were doing.
Not openly.
Because in Stonevale, obedience to authority mattered more than discomfort.
Especially when elders were present.
Still—
Some of them avoided looking too directly t
