Chapter 79

The next day, the council room was closed to everyone except three. Cole sat at the head of the table, posture straight, hands folded. Aren sat to his left, an IV stand beside him, the line running into his arm. He looked steadier than yesterday, but not fully recovered. Across from them sat Lara, Ironwood’s head strategist.

Cole placed a folded letter on the table. “Erv reported us to the Lycan. I didn’t think he’d actually move forward with it.”

Lara’s expression did not change. “On what grounds?”

“He claims we killed two Blackclaws guards without cause.”

Aren extended his hand. “Let me see.”

Cole slid the letter across. Aren unfolded it carefully and read in silence. His eyes moved slowly over the formal script.

Halfway through, the corner of his mouth lifted with a calm smile. Cole noticed immediately. “Why are you smiling?”

Aren folded the letter again and placed it neatly on the table. “Because we can win this.”

Lara leaned forwa