Chapter 53. The Wolf Throne

The sun hung low as Selene and her wolves returned to the Crown of Thorns. Their bodies were battered and their weapons dulled, but their hearts burned bright with victory, carrying them forward even as exhaustion tugged at every step.

The gates creaked open before them, and the survivors within the fortress rushed out to meet them. Hope and awe shone in their eyes as they took in the sight of the returning pack—bloodied, unbowed, alive.

Selene dismounted and stood tall at the center of the courtyard. Dust swirled around her boots, catching the slanted light like scattered stars. The sound of movement stilled as all eyes turned toward her.

Garron approached, his old frame trembling with emotion. Without hesitation, he sank to one knee and bowed his head.

“Blood of kings,” he