“Not just merged.” Mother’s fingers twisted her moon-pearl necklace. “They’re united. One force. And they’re setting their sights on us, Isolde. All the signs point to it.”
“Alaric isn’t just brawn,” Father added, placing the empty glass down with a sharp thud. “He’s tactical and genius. And Sorenna…” He exhaled. “She’s more ruthless than her father ever dreamed of being. Together, they’re dangerous.”
I leaned forward, pulse quickening. “How serious is it?”
“They’ve already claimed the Molthaven Teritory,” Mother whispered. “Three of our oldest allied packs have pledged loyalty to them. We’re losing land. Wolves. Influence...”
“Moon above.” I dragged a hand through my hair. The Molthaven Pack had stood untouched for decades. If they fell… “Why did you never call me? Tell me things were collapsing?”
“We wanted you to have peace,” Mother said softly. “After what happened with…” She stopped, not want me hearing his name.
“You had walked in a different direction,” Father murmured, refilling his glass with slower, steadier movements. “You sought your own life. Who were we to drag you back?”
I breathed hard. “I’m still part of the pack.”