Marcus's point of view

Even before I entered, the council chamber was already tense.

The murmuring of voices inside was muffled by the oak doors. I opened them and went in, adjusting my tie, which was strung too tight across my neck. I stepped inside, my boots resounding against the smooth tiled floor, and the place fell into a profound silence.

A semicircle of significant enforcers, advisors, and elders surrounded the council table that stretched out before me. Elder Greta sat at the far end, her piercing dark eyes scrutinizing me on a personal level rather than a professional one.

Greta said, "Alpha Marcus," in that cool, calm voice of...