The cavern of Hollow Mountain glowed with a warmth that came not from fire, but from magic. Braziers crackled softly at the edges, flames tinged blue with the touch of Althea’s spellwork. Warriors from both packs sat in respectful silence, a rare stillness settling over them after weeks of tension, fighting, and the dizzying whirl of weddings, trials, and ceremonies.

Tonight was different. Tonight was not about blood or war, not even about the celebration of unions. Tonight was about a ...