*Starblood Pack — Council Chamber, Evening*

 The day’s battles and travels had left dust on Ryder’s boots, but he stood unbowed at the head of the long table, shoulders squared, golden eyes shining with restrained fury.

 Crystal stood slightly behind him. Her fingers brushed the back of his arm once, a fleeting touch no one but him noticed—a promise of strength she gave without words.

 Around the table, murmurs flared. Warriors and elders—wolves who had followed Ryder into war, who ...