POV: Ferdinand King

The forest behind Prospero's cottage looked different at dawn.

Mist clung to the ground like something alive, and the trees seemed to watch me with ancient awareness as I followed Miranda's father deeper into territory that felt older than pack law. My wolf was restless beneath my skin, sensing magic in the air that had nothing to do with normal shifter abilities.

"The first trial is simple," Prospero said without turning around. "Survive."

Before I could ask ...