Marcus's Point of view

The council chamber was silent but for the rhythmic ticking of the old ancient clock in the corner. The weight of recent betrayals pressed down on them all, and the air hung heavy with it.

I stood at the head of the long table, my hands pressed against the polished wood, scanning the faces of the people who had sworn loyalty to me. Some met my gaze with conviction. Others—Jensen, Calloway, a few more of the elders held their expressions carefully neutral.

I had spent years protecting this pack, building it into something that would last. Still, there were those who doubted me, plotted behind my...