Kael POV

The chant rattled the walls.

“Crown or kill. Crown or kill.”

Iron Howl’s fortress trembled with their voices, wolves pressing into the throne hall until the air grew hot with breath and fury.

They weren’t just whispering anymore. They were choosing.

The Council, those not dead, formed a circle around the dais, silver chains in hand, ash-smeared across their brows.

“The prophecy speaks through us,” Talon growled. “The third hunger must be tested. Either it crowns or ...