A month was enough time for the pack to change its rhythm. It happened quietly at first. Servants began knocking before entering Karl’s chambers, guards positioned themselves outside the corridor more frequently than before, even the elders seemed to linger when Rey walked through the halls, their eyes thoughtful rather than suspicious.

The mark on her neck had settled into a faint silver imprint, barely visible unless someone looked closely but its presence was unmistakable and everyone knew what it meant.

Rey moved through the keep with measured calm, aware of the subtle shifts around her. Some wolves bowed slightly when she passed now while others avoided her gaze completely....