This revelation curdled into a dark envy within Charlotte. She could not fathom why a "Dormant Omen" like Avery, who couldn't even offer a proper lupine howl, commanded such savage devotion from the Alpha.

As Charlotte crossed paths with Hudson in the cold stone corridor of the Sanctum, she bared her teeth in a mockery of a smile. "Hudson, save your breath. Your little pet has eloped with a rogue. Check the scrying stones of the North Gate if you think I’m spinning tales."

Hudson turned with the slow, predatory grace of a winter wolf. His gaze was not just icy; it was a promise of execution. He stalked toward...