EMBER’S POV

Knox goes still. The King comes up behind his eyes.

“Catherine.”

“You didn’t hear it from me.” She folds her hands. “But you’ve a right to it, and there are those on the council who’d very much prefer you didn’t have it, which is exactly why I’m the one giving it to you.” Her pale gaze locks onto his. “Elder James has been busy.”

And just like that, the warmth drains out of the room like water out of a cracked glass, and I feel Knox change beside me.

“Busy how?” he asks.

“Alphas.” Catherine’s voice has gone flat and precise. “They are moving. Quietly. From packs that...