Unseen Chains that bind us..

Ace wakes up to an unsettling stillness.

For a moment, everything feels normal, the early morning light streaming through the curtains, the faint rustle of leaves outside. But as he pushes himself up, something feels off.

His mind is unusually clear, yet at the same time, clouded. He can't put his finger on it, but there's a pull_ something gnawing at the edges of his thoughts.

Then he hears voices outside.

Slipping out of Kieran's bed, he moves toward the window. Down in the courtyard, a group of wolves has gathered, all focused on one person.

Rehan.

Ace's stomach twists.

They're looking at him differently.

The same wolves who had once eyed Rehan with caution, distrust, or even hostility now seem... drawn to him. Their stances are open, their expressions soft, like he belongs here.

Jun and Rey stand at the front, usually the most guarded, but even they seem at ease. Rey speaks to Rehan with none of his usual sharpness.