*Starblood pack — The northern tower, before dawn*

 The fortress was filled with unnatural stillness. No howls echoed. No whispers. Even the wind felt like it was holding its breath.

 Crystal sat at the edge of her bed, eyes fixed on her trembling hands. 

 The warmth hadn’t left her since the Lightstorm. It pulsed faintly beneath her skin.

 A soft knock broke the silence.

 She didn’t speak but the door creaked open anyway.

 Edwin entered quietly, his dark robes trailing like smoke. ...