*Shadow Pack Stronghold ---- Courtyard, Morning*

Crystal pulled her cloak tighter against the mountain chill, the weight of leaving pressing heavier than she expected. Behind her, Starblood wolves gathered preparing for their departure.

Ryder stood tall in the courtyard's center, his Alpha's mantle stirring faintly in the cold wind. Alpha Darius faced him... the two men locked gazes, dominance flickering like lightning between them.

Ryder broke the silence first. "Shadow ...