Caesar.

Amidst the relentless assault on our pack, I convened a meeting, my proposal heavy on my mind. "We need to consider forming alliances," I began, my voice carrying the weight of urgency.

Around the discussion table, expressions ranged from skepticism to cautious agreement. One seat remained conspicuously vacant, Maria's absence casting a long shadow, an unspoken enigma in our midst.

Jacob, the voice of reason, spoke up first. "It's a practical idea, your highness. We can't endure these attacks alone."

A murmur of agreement rippled through the room, but opposing voices soon emerged, like discordant notes in a melody. "Alliances can be treacherous," Elena cautioned, her brows furrowing in...