Elara POV:
The Council Hall feels smaller than it did a few days ago. I walk in with Caelan at my side and Rhydan half a step behind, as natural as breathing.
A ripple moves through the chamber, subtle and instinctive. Wolves straighten, shoulders tightening as they catch Caelan’s scent and the dense, controlled pressure of his dominance. It isn’t a broadcast in the usual sense.
They can feel his anger, they can also feel that it’s leashed.That is what makes them careful.
My gaze moves to the dais.
Councillor Sephara sits slightly apart from the central cluster of Elders, her expression unreasonable. Her eyes meet mine once before sliding toward the rest of the Council as if she’s already assessing how far they intend to take this.
Then I see Sonia. She’s positioned near the dais, wh
