Every head turned. Hunstu stood with his tail low, his ears flat, but his eyes were clear.

Old Moss, the healer, shook her head. “Fighting takes strength we do not have. We need a different way.”

And from the edge of the circle, a quiet voice said, “I know where the elk are.”

The alphas were desperate enough to listen.

“No,” said Scarback. “I saw a wolf who watched when others ran. Who listened when others spoke. Who waited when others rushed.” He raised his head and howled again—a single, clear note that named a new truth.