The whispers began before the torches were lit.
Not spoken aloud.
Not at first.
But passed in looks.
In hesitation.
In the way patrol wolves no longer stood shoulder to shoulder — but with a breath of distance between them.
Ugh.
Luca noticed everything.
Because discipline did not permit blindness.
---
The Yard Talks
"They said the last one was chosen too."
"They said instinct knew best."
"They said the bond made her untouchable."
"And she still brought war to our gates."
A sharp inhale followed.
Tsk.
Because memory was louder than reassurance.
A younger wolf spat into the dirt.
"This is ridiculous."
A veteran beside him replied quietly—
"So was trusting her."
Growling rose low.
Grr—
Not threat.
Agreement.
---
Luca Listens
He did not interrupt.
Did not silence them.
Because whispers suppressed became rumors.
And rumors became fracture.
"What are you saying?" he asked calmly.
One of the hunters met his gaze.
"That history repeats."
