The sun dipped low over Winterborn territory, casting the ridge in gold that shimmered across the snow. Lanterns flickered along the courtyard walls, their flames steady despite the cold wind that swept through the valley. Wolves gathered in groups, murmuring in voices thick with expectation. Some stood close together. Some kept their distance. All of them watched the gates.
It felt like the land was holding its breath.
Ronan stood beside me at the top of the stone steps that led down into the main courtyard. His posture was tense, but not with aggression. With readiness. If the world cracked open again, he would face it. Not for prophecy, not for pride, but because he had chosen to.
Kade paced near the entrance, boots crunching across packed snow. He flicked glances at me every few sec
