I saw the bracket change the same way Val did—on the posted board outside Obsidian Hall.

My expression stayed neutral. My wolf did not.

I spent approximately four seconds being professionally calm about it before I was inside Obsidian Hall, my voice carrying across the chamber like a blade.

"Who authorized the bracket adjustment?"

The council aide on duty looked up, her eyes widening slightly at my tone. "Alpha Virex. The bracket changes were—"

"I asked who authorized them."

She ...