Lyra Point Of View.

That evening, Kael had just thundered out of the gates to another pack for a meeting, and the moment the hoofbeats faded, I let the quiet settle. It always pleased me, the silence that followed Kael’s presence, like the pack itself held its breath until he was gone. I knew then that tonight, no one would interfere.

Immediately I was alone, I sent for two of Kael’s soldiers.

They bowed low.

I could see the tension in their shoulders, the quick darting of their eyes. ...