*Greenwood — Courtyard, Morning*

The courtyard buzzed with movement as Greenwood prepared to send off its honored guests. 

Armor clinked, and wolves paced with the nervous energy that always came before a journey. The air had a faint chill that promised rain later in the day.

Crystal adjusted the cloak at her shoulders, though it felt unnecessary now, her fire burned beneath her skin.

 She glanced toward Ryder, who stood a few feet away, speaking low with Alpha Thorne. His presence was ...