She approached carrying a square gift box draped in deep blue velvet, a silver ribbon tied around it that caught the torchlight with understated elegance. Her steps were measured, unhurried. She placed the box on the stone podium before me.
It wasn't large, but it was exquisite.
Kael's face—which had been dark with barely contained fury—shifted the moment he saw it.
The resentment and rage drained from his eyes like a receding tide, replaced by rekindled anticipation. He straightened in his seat and glanced toward Selene.
Selene's brow furrowed slightly, a flicker of confusion crossing her features. But within seconds, she gave Kael an almost imperceptible nod—part reassurance, part signal.
I reached out and let my fingers glide over the smooth velvet surface.
"This honor carries no silver-tribute attached. It's not tied to hunt tallies or patrol reports." My voice was steady, even carrying a hint of warmth. "It simply represents the pack's... appreciation for one wolf's rather unique contributions."
Kael's spine went ramrod straight. The corner of his mouth twitched upward, impossible to suppress.
A look of smug certainty flashed in his eyes—I knew it.