Chapter 81

Kai’s POV

The Lycan stronghold stood timeless, etched from dark stone and carved into the mountainside like it had grown naturally from the earth itself. Every wall and archway bore the weight of centuries, each hall humming with memories and power left by generations before us.

The air smelled of pine, ancient parchment, and faint smoke from torches that flickered along stone walls, lighting our way through corridors long familiar yet strangely foreign now.

Marcus fell into step beside us, quiet and attentive, his brow furrowed with curiosity.

"Marcus," I began, my voice calm but firm, "we have questions that we would like you to answer…honestly"

"Of course, Your Majesty." Marcus inclined his head slightly, eyes serious as ever.

Kieran glanced at me briefly, a subtle nod urging me forward. "Your father," I said carefully, watching Marcus’s expression tighten, "he fought in the great war. He knew