The Council Convenes
The council chamber was an architectural marvel, its vast expanse designed to dwarf even the most formidable Alpha. Towering stone pillars, carved with intricate runes of ancient wolf lore, rose to a ceiling so high it disappeared into shadow. Every sound echoed ominously, amplifying the weight of the gathering.
Draven entered with Isla at his side, her silver hair gleaming like a beacon in the dim light. The rest of their entourage—Susan, Alaric, Micah, Jamie and a handful of Crimson Fang’s most trusted warriors—followed close behind. The semicircle of seated Alphas scrutinized their every move.
At the center of the room, Tobias lounged with casual arrogance, his dark robes giving him the air of a shadow made flesh. “Welcome, Alpha Draven,” he said smoothly, his voice carrying a false warmth that set Isla’s teeth on edge. “We’ve been eagerly awaiting your arrival.”
Draven didn’t break stride, his amber eyes locked on Tobias as he stepped into the chamber. “Spare me the pleasantries, Tobias. If you had something meaningful to say, you’d have said it already.”
Tobias chuckled, leaning forward in his seat. “Oh, I intend to. But let’s start with the troubling reports about your leadership.”
Draven’s gaze swept over the council, meeting each Alpha’s eyes in turn. “Our pack remains strong and united,” he said firmly, his voice cutting through the murmurs in the chamber. “Any claims otherwise are baseless, fabricated by those who envy what we’ve built.”
An elder Alpha to the left, his beard streaked with silver, leaned forward. His sharp eyes flicked to Alaric. “What of the rogue among you?” he asked, his tone measured but probing.
Before Draven could respond, Alaric stepped forward, his movements deliberate. “I was a rogue,” he admitted, his voice steady as he met the elder’s gaze. “Draven offered me a place in his pack. I earned that place through loyalty and action. Whatever I was, I am Crimson Fang now.”
A wave of murmurs spread among the council members. Tobias smirked, waiting for the perfect moment to interject.
“And the Luna bond?” Tobias’s voice rang out, sharp as a blade. “We’ve heard it’s… compromised.”
Isla stepped forward before Draven could speak, her silver eyes flashing as she addressed the council directly. “Our bond is unbroken,” she said, her voice clear and steady. “Any rumors suggesting otherwise are lies meant to sow discord.”
Tobias tilted his head, his smirk deepening as though he found her response amusing. Isla’s hand brushed against Draven’s arm briefly—a subtle gesture, but one that grounded him. He stood taller, unflinching as Tobias leaned back, his expression unreadable.
The council chamber remained tense, the air heavy with unspoken accusations.
