Chapter 191

Torches were lit along the inner wall, their flames steady but subdued, as if even fire had learned restraint. The pack moved with quiet efficiency—no panic, no questions shouted across the courtyard. Word had spread without words. Something fundamental had shifted, and instinct told them noise would only fracture what little balance remained.

Caleb stood at the edge of the battlements, hands braced against cold stone. Below, the forest breathed—deep, ancient, watchful. He ...