Chapter 21. Isolation

Kade’s hand tightened around Aria’s arm, not to hurt her, but to ensure she couldn't retreat. He was committed now. He threw open the heavy ironwood doors of the Council Chamber and stepped onto the marble floor, Aria a defiant shadow at his back.

The atmosphere in the massive, circular room was not one of negotiation, but of judgment. Twelve powerful Alpha leaders sat silently on the raised dais, their expressions ranging from cold fury to calculated distaste. The ancient Patriarch, the highest authority, sat at the apex, his presence radiating a crushing inertia that demanded immediate submission.

Kade and Aria took three steps into the room before a new, authoritative figure intercepted them.

Headmaster Thorne was not one of the Council members, but his authority within the Academy was absolute. He stepped down from the side of the room, his movements precise and military, his gaze cutting straight past Kade to settle on Aria.

“Alpha Kade,” Thorne’s v