Alpha Ren arrived before dusk.

The horns sounded first, long and deep, rolling through the pack like a warning. Wolves stopped where they stood. Conversations died. Guards straightened. Elders moved quickly toward the great hall.

Ivy stood still as the sound reached her.

Her face did not change.

Inside, her chest was tight, but she did not move. She had told herself she would not interfere. Not yet. Not until she understood. Not until memory chose her.

The large hall filled fast.

Stone pillars ...