I hurried to find Luna Elena in her private chamber to report what I'd discovered."I believe I've identified how the poison is being administered," I explained quietly. "There's a servant working with one of Giana's allies—they passed a vial between them. When confronted, they claimed it was medici
Breakfast featured an elaborate spread of Swift River specialties—smoked river fish, forest berries preserved in honey, and freshly baked bread adorned with their pack's symbolic crest. Under normal circumstances, I would have appreciated their hospitality. Today, my focus remained on the servant ho
"I've been worried about you," Kane admitted suddenly, his voice uncharacteristically vulnerable. Looking up from the maps, I found his gaze fixed on me rather than the tactical markings. "When I realized how many rogues were positioned around the territory...""I'm fine," I assured him, though the
The soft tapping at my window startled me from restless sleep. For a moment, I lay frozen, unsure if I had imagined the sound. Then it came again—more insistent this time, a deliberate pattern that couldn't be mistaken for wind or branches.I rose cautiously, drawing a silk robe around my shoulders
The grand council chamber of Swift River Pack impressed even by traditional standards. Ancient tapestries depicting territorial wars hung from stone walls worn smooth by centuries of use. Ceremonial weapons lined the entrance, silent reminders of alliances forged in both peace and battle.Formal neg
Alpha Marcus and Luna Elena arrived with the ceremony befitting their status—ceremonial guards in formal attire, bearing elaborate gifts that spoke of respect for Swift River's traditions. Despite the grandeur, I couldn't help noticing the pallor in Alpha Marcus's complexion, the slight tremor in hi
The journey to Swift River territory stretched for hours through dense forest. I sat stiffly in the second vehicle, maintaining my composure despite the growing tension. Ahead of us, Raymond and Giana rode together in the lead car, occasionally visible when the winding road straightened.Throughout
"The voice she was speaking with," I finished. "I couldn't place it at first, but now I'm certain—it belonged to a rogue I saw her meeting with at the border."Kane's expression darkened. "This confirms our suspicions of outside coordination.""We need to stop the visit," I urged. "It's too dangerou
Raymond announced the news at breakfast, his voice carrying the casual authority of someone accustomed to having his decisions accepted without question."I've arranged a diplomatic visit to the Swift River Pack," he declared, buttering his toast with meticulous precision. "We leave in three days to