The celebration lasted through the afternoon—
wolves dancing in both forms, food appearing from every den, Moss leading ancient songs that hadn't been sung in generations. The Essence of Renewal sat in its place of honor at the heart-lodge entrance, already beginning to work its magic—a subtle warmth spreading through the territory, promising spring after the longest winter.
But Alex felt the clock ticking.
[ Host, We're done here. Let's go to another place. Don't forget your running on time limit here. ]
" I know. " Alex replied.
They'd done what they came for. Stayed the promised time. Proven themselves. Got the stone.
Now they needed to leave before anything complicated that simple truth.
As the sun began its descent toward the horizon, Alex found Naga and Leo near the edge of the celebration—both watching the festivities with the wariness of predators who knew better than to let their guard down completely.
