Damian's POV
I stood with my back to the large obsidian fireplace, eyes fixed on the carved wolf crest above it. I didn’t answer immediately. I was staring at that damn symbol — the same one etched into every corner of this castle, our bloodline’s mark of legacy and power. But right now, it felt heavier than usual.
"Damian, why weren’t you at the ceremony?" My father’s voice boomed as he entered his chambers and found me seated, waiting.
"And why didn’t you participate in the hunt?"
I didn’t answer right away. I glanced at the doors—shut, locked. His chambers were soundproofed, enchanted for privacy. No one outside these walls would hear what I was about to say. That didn’t stop the tension from knotting in my chest.
I took a deep breath. My voice came out quiet—but firm.
"I found h
