The summit ended without war.
But peace did not return with the departing Alphas.
It lingered outside the gates, suspicious and thin, like a stranger deciding whether to knock.
Night had fully settled over Blackclaw when the final torches were lit across the compound walls. Guards moved in tighter rotations, their footsteps echoing across stone walkways and training yards.
Silas watched the last patrol leave the courtyard.
"They're still here," he said quietly.
Selene stood beside him, arms folded against the chill night air. "Of course they are."
He looked at her.
"You're certain?"
"They didn't come all this way just to listen to diplomacy," she replied. "Varkor is still measuring us."
Silas's wolf stirred restlessly under his skin.
"I don't like being studied."
Selene allowed herself a small smile.
"Then give him something difficult to understand."
Behind them, the compound was louder than usual.
Some wolves had begun drinking.
