The main hall of Silvermere Manor hadn't changed.

Same vaulted ceilings.

Same oil paintings of past Alphas glowering from the walls.

Same marble floors that amplified every footstep into a declaration.

I'd walked these floors a thousand times as a child, usually quickly, usually quietly, usually trying not to be noticed.

Not today.

Today my heels announced me like cannon fire.

The hall was full.

Council members in formal dress.

Advisors. Senior warriors.

Family members, distant cousins, allied representatives, everyone who mattered, a few who didn't.

They lined the walls, leaving the center aisle clear.

At the far end, standing in front of the Alpha's chair, a massive carved throne...