Chapter 24. Beneath the Feast

The feast was loud, warm, and full of light.

Bonfires burned in the center of the gathering grounds. Tables were lined with roasted meats, fruits, and sweet breads. Laughter echoed through the air. Children ran between the legs of warriors, and music played from flutes and drums.

It was everything a celebration should be.

But Elder Thorne didn’t smile.

He moved through the crowd slowly, watching faces, listening to whispers. Everyone seemed… relaxed. Like the tension of the last few days had simply vanished.

Because Lila had told them it was over.

He spotted her across the fire—dressed in crimson and gold, her hair woven with silver threads. She looked like a queen. She laughed like she belonged.

The Alpha stood beside her.

No… stood behind her.

Eyes dull. Expression blank.

Thorne’s stomach turned.

“Elder Thorne,” someone greeted, offering him a drink.

He nodded politely but didn’t take it. “Has anyone heard fro