Chapter 48

Seris’s POV

People made way for us, splitting the crowd as chatter and laughter swirled around the hall. One by one, the names of other Alphas and leaders rang out over the hushed murmur, each announcement greeted with respectful bows and murmured greetings. I followed Ronan’s lead toward the raised dais where our thrones stood, awe spreading through me. Every corner of the grand chamber brimmed with creatures I’d only heard of in stories: warlocks in flowing robes, giants stooped to fit beneath the gilded rafters, elegant witches, slender elves, shimmering fairies, and stout, bearded gnomes. They mingled as though old friends, unified by this assembly.

We reached our seats—ornate thrones carved from dark oak and inlaid with silver runes—positioned high enough that we could overlook the entire gathering. I settled beside Ronan, heart still racing at the spectacle surrounding us.

“Why aren’t there any vampires?” I asked quietly, curiosity edging my tone.