Chapter 35. Another Goodnews

When Lucian and the elite warriors finally returned to the alpha’s estate, they wasted no time in presenting the scrolls and gifts of Frostfang to their Alpha. Damian listened in silence as Lucian gave a precise account of every word exchanged and every plea made. His sharp eyes did not miss the tremor of desperation hidden in Alpha Philipa’s request for protection.

At last, Damian leaned back in his chair, fingers tapping slowly on the armrest. “So, the proud Frostfangs bend the knee without even being asked.” His lips curved, not into a smile, but into something colder. “Good. That is how it should be.”

He took a fresh sheet of parchment and, with deliberate strokes, wrote a letter bearing his seal of blackened silver:

To Alpha Philipa of Frostfang,

Your loyalty is acknowledged and accepted. The Shadowfang do not abandon those who swear to us. Should you call, my strength will be yours. Keep your borders secure and your warriors sharp—for the far