The grand hall of the Alpha Council brimmed with an air of unease. Alpha Derek and Kael stood before the semicircle of Alphas, their expressions hardened. The council’s golden insignia glinted from the walls, an otherwise symbol of unity now overshadowed by the tension gripping the room.

“Let’s begin,” Alpha Gideon, the senior member of the council, announced. His voice carried authority, though the faint quiver hinted at his own apprehension. “Alpha Derek, Kael, you’ve requested this session to present evidence against Alpha Kevin. Make it quick; we cannot afford to delay action if what you claim is true.”

Derek nodded and gestured toward Kael. “Kael has firsthand knowledge and...