Chapter 88

Winter's arrival brought an unexpected proposal that would test everything Arianna had built—and potentially transform continental pack politics permanently.

The message came from Viktor, delivered by Natasha personally rather than through formal diplomatic channels. That alone signaled something significant was developing.

"Father wants to join the reform coalition," Natasha announced without preamble, sitting in Arianna's office with Ruth and Thomas present. "Not as some tactical maneuver or temporary alliance. Actual membership with full commitment to coalition principles."

The silence in the room was profound. Viktor—the brutal pragmatist who'd invaded Ravenwood less than two years ago, who represented everything traditional about pack leadership—wanting to join the progressive reform coalition?...