Ivy's POV
My father brought us to a halt at the edge of a small clearing where an ancient stump sat like a natural throne in the center. Sliding off Thorne's back, I watched as he trotted away to shift back to human form. When he returned, he gestured toward the stump with a solemn expression.
"Go sit," he instructed simply.
I nodded and walked into the clearing, immediately feeling something different about this place. The morning sun had just begun to breach the treetops, casting long shadows across the forest floor. A shiver ran through me—not from cold, as wolves naturally run hot—but from the palpable energy surrounding me. The forest seemed alive in a way I couldn't explain, as if something ancient and powerful was waiting, watching this moment unfold.
Turning around, I noticed my father remained at the edge of the clearing, keeping his distance.
"Why are you still back there?" I called out.
"This isn't for me, it's for you. I have already done my time in this place."
