The Ravenclaws' main square had never been so stifling. Banners hung slowly in the twilight breeze, their deep red hue catching the light of the torches. Dozens of pack members filled the square, stirring it with a flavour of distrust and unease. Some were arms crossed, their eyes unyielding, while others shifted restlessly as though torn between loyalty and doubt. Whispers wound like frustrated snakes through the throng.
Evelyn stood near the front with Lucy at her side, her palms damp despite the cool air. It was the first time she would speak before the pack on her own. Her chest tightened as she looked at the rows of wolves who had never truly accepted her. Some eyes glimmered with curiosity, others with open hostility. And somewhere in the crowd, she could already feel Fji's presence like a shadow waiting to pounce.
