The retaliation did not come from beyond the boundary.
It came from within.
Aurelia felt it before the report reached her—an imbalance in the bond that had nothing to do with outside attention and everything to do with intent turning inward. The territory was still, too still, like a held breath that had gone on too long.
Mira noticed it as well. She slowed beside Aurelia on the upper path, eyes narrowing. "Something's wrong."
"Yes," Aurelia said quietly. "Someone moved without permission."
"That's been happening all night."
"Not like this."
They reached the inner grounds just as raised voices broke through the calm. Wolves clustered near the western barracks, tension sharp enough to taste. Torches burned brighter than necessary, shadows jumping wildly against stone.
Aurelia pushed through the gathering crowd.
