Alpha Magnus' message was blunt, delivered by a scarred northern beta who refused to kneel before the triumvirate.
"Alpha Magnus withdraws his offer of peaceful retreat. Since you hoard the changed wolf and cling to your unnatural shared throne, the north will take what it needs by right of strength. The human-turned-wolf belongs with packs that understand true power, not soft palace bonds. We march at dawn. Any who stand with the triumvirate will be considered enemies of the old ways."
The beta was escorted out under heavy guard before he could say more, but the damage was done. Panic rippled through the noble houses. Some minor lords who had only just been rewarded with new lands now whispered of hedging their bets. Loyal packs sent urgent requests for guidance. The capital itself felt heavier, as if the northern threat pressed down like an approaching avalanche.
