_Rowena's POV_
The royal healer stood in the entrance hall, dressed in a severe gray uniform. A silver wolf was embroidered over her heart, and a black metal token hung from her neck.
"I am Royal Bond Examiner Seraphine Vale," she said. "I have been ordered to verify Lady Rowena Ashthorne's marital bond and document any evidence relevant to her petition."
"This is my territory," Kaelen said. "You will not examine my wife without me present."
Examiner Vale lifted the token.
Alaric's crowned wolf was carved into its surface.
Power rolled through the hall.
It was nothing like Kaelen's Alpha command. His authority pressed down, demanding submission. This power simply existed, vast and absolute, leaving no question of who stood above whom.
Kaelen moved forward.
The token flashed.
He s
