I watched from across the hall. A soft exhale escaped through my nose—not quite a laugh.
I raised my goblet, took a measured sip, and said nothing.
"Alpha Blackthorn." Ronan Stormwing appeared at my elbow, touching his goblet to mine with an amiable smile. The visiting Beta from our allied pack surveyed the gathering with approval. "The territory's tribute flow looks excellent this year. Border stability has never been stronger. You should be pleased."
"I should be."
I returned the smile and drained my goblet in one smooth motion.
Three rounds of mead later, the atmosphere had reached a fever pitch.
The ceremony leader took the raised platform, voice booming with theatrical energy as he announced the evening's main event.
The year-end tribute distribution.
Cheers and howls of approval erupted from the gathered wolves. Every eye in the hall locked onto the stage.
I straightened my ceremonial collar and ascended the steps.
Taking the speaking stone, I let my gaze sweep across the sea of faces—each one bright with anticipation, practically vibrating with excitement.
Selene sat at the head table, posture elegant, composed. Only the slight tightening of her hands in her lap betrayed anything beneath the surface.
Kael occupied the seat beside her. Spine ramrod straight. A faint smile playing at the corner of his mouth. His eyes held the certainty of a wolf who already knew he'd won.
"First," I began, my voice carrying through the enchanted acoustics to every corner of the hall, "I want to thank each of you for your dedication to the pack this past year."
Thunderous applause and approving howls.
I worked through the list, calling names one by one.
Each recipient bounded up to the platform, beaming, accepting their tribute pouch with effusive thanks. The amounts varied—modest silver shares here, substantial hunting rights there—but every face wore the same delighted expression.
Kael watched the proceedings with hooded eyes.
When a mid-rank patrol leader collected his generous tribute allotment, I caught the subtle curl at the corner of Kael's lips. Contempt, barely concealed.
He leaned toward Selene, murmuring something. She pressed her lips together in a knowing smile and reached over to pat the back of his hand.
The gesture was casual. Intimate.
A few wolves in the crowd noticed. Curious glances flickered their way, nostrils flaring as they caught the mingled scents.