Chapter 117

Kai’s POV

The Council chambers were as imposing as ever—a massive stone amphitheater carved directly into the heart of an ancient mountain.

Torches flickered along the walls, casting dancing shadows that made the carved wolves seem to move and breathe.

We shifted back at the entrance, pulling on the formal robes that had been left for us. The weight of centuries of tradition pressed down like a physical thing.

"Remember," I said quietly as we walked toward the central dais, "we present a united front no matter what."

"United," Kieran agreed grimly.

"Always," Kylan added.

The twelve members of the High Council sat in a perfect circle around us, their faces hidden in shadow. I could smell the power radiating from them—ancient wolves who had seen the rise and fall of entire civilizations.

"Kai, Kylan, Kieran of the House Moonstone," the center figure spoke, his voice echoing off the