Chapter 16

A tense hush settled over the council chamber as Camila’s words faded into the still air. The circle of elders exchanged uncertain glances, each face creased with concern or confusion. A single elder—broad-shouldered and stooped with age—cleared his throat, breaking the silence. His gnarled fingers drummed lightly on the ancient oak table. “Alpha Killan,” he asked gently but firmly, as though prodding a still pond for its hidden depths, “what is your verdict?”

Alpha Killan remained motionless, his gaze fixed on the sprawling cityscape beyond the open window. His spine was rigid, as though he were a statue carved from obsidian. No flicker of recognition passed across his features. Perhaps he was lost in thought, miles away in memory’s labyrinth, or perhaps Camila’s impassioned plea had touched him too deeply—and left him uncertain. Either way, he did not move. He