RALPH

I walked with the council members toward the grand hall, the weight of my thoughts pressing down on me. My grip tightened on Keilah’s hand before I let her go, the memory of her unsettled eyes lingering in my mind. The council's compound loomed before me, a stark reminder of the power they held over us. Each step echoed with the authority they wielded, and I knew that what awaited inside would be no small matter.

As we entered the hall, the murmurs of gathered Alphas from different packs filled the air. Jeffrey, the top council leader, seated at a long, imposing table, turned their attention to me. My...