Chapter 178. I Am a Monster

“Yes,”

The courtyard held its breath as Lucien’s reply spread across the castle.

That single word hung in the air with so much power that it shredded apart whatever presence Elder Lance was trying to build. For a heartbeat, as the world grew still, the elder blinked, shock flickering through his expression as he tilted his head.

The slip was quickly covered up, but it was there, and most wolves had seen it. The elder slipped back his civilized mask and once again began to try and persuade Lucien,

“Think of it, Alpha Lucien,” Lance continued with a smile, “There doesn’t need to be any fight, nor should there be any blood spilled. Just give her over to me, and we will not have any problems. Besides, it will be easier for you in the long run.”

Aria clenched her teeth, rage building up within her the more the elder talked and treated her like an object. Her muscles shifted, but Lucien held out his hand,

“I’ll handle this,” he whispered in a soft tone,