Stephano's POV
The mountain shifted beneath my feet, restless now, like it resented my restraint.
I stayed until dusk bled into night, until the stars cut through the sky sharp and cold.
When I finally returned to my chambers, the bond flared suddenly, violently and overwhelming. I staggered, gripping the doorframe as pain lanced through my ribs.
Not injury.
Warning.
Aurora.
Images crashed into me unbidden.
Cracked stone.
White light.
Catherine's eyes - burning, resolute, unafraid.
And beneath it all, something vast turning its attention outward.
I slid to the floor, breath ragged.
"She didn't choose war," I whispered to the empty room.
"She chose the truth."
The realization settled heavy and final.
That was what terrified them.
That was what would tear Deephowl apart if I wasn't careful.
The council wanted stability.
Marek wanted control.
The pack wanted certainty.
