Divided Loyalties
The Council of Alphas, gathered in the pack’s largest war room, simmered with tension as Malrik’s influence grew. His sharp mind and smooth words had begun to sway the opinions of even Draven’s staunchest allies.
Alpha Garren of the Iron Fang Pack broke the uneasy silence. “Crimson Fang has faced crisis after crisis,” he said, his tone cutting. “And while Draven holds us to tradition, Malrik presents solutions. Perhaps… it’s time to consider new leadership.”
The room erupted in murmurs, some alphas nodding in reluctant agreement while others bristled at Garren’s boldness.
Draven stood slowly, his sheer presence silencing the room. His voice was a low growl, vibrating with restrained fury. “If you’re suggesting I step aside, Garren,” he said, his words sharp as steel, “say it outright.”
Garren met his gaze but said nothing more.
Malrik leaned forward, his pale hands resting lightly on the table. “Let’s not bicker,” he said smoothly, his voice soothing but edged with a subtle command. “This council isn’t here to play politics. It’s here to secure the future of our kind. And that future requires unity.”
Though his words were diplomatic, Isla could feel the calculated ambition behind them. Malrik’s gray eyes flicked toward her briefly, as if testing her reaction.
Later that day, Isla walked the packhouse halls, her thoughts heavy. She stopped in front of a window overlooking the training grounds, her gaze distant.
“You carry yourself like a queen,” Malrik’s voice interrupted. He was behind her, his movements soundless.
Isla turned, her expression guarded. “What do you want now?”
Malrik approached slowly, his voice soft. “To remind you that you don’t need to be a shadow of anyone, not even Draven. Your strength is yours alone. And your children… they’ll inherit that strength. If you let them.”
Her silver eyes narrowed. “You don’t know me or my family, Malrik. Stop pretending you care.”
He smiled faintly, almost wistfully. “I care more than you think. You’re the future, Isla. Not just of Crimson Fang, but of something greater. Don’t let Draven or anyone else tether you to mediocrity.”
“I don’t need your advice,” she said sharply, turning to leave.
“Perhaps not,” he called after her, his tone maddeningly calm. “But the truth has a way of finding you, whether you want it or not.”
