The grand hall of the Alpha Council brimmed with an air of unease. Alpha Derek and Kael stood before the semicircle of Alphas, their expressions hardened. The council’s golden insignia glinted from the walls, an otherwise symbol of unity now overshadowed by the tension gripping the room.

“Let’s begin,” Alpha Gideon, the senior member of the council, announced. His voice carried authority, though the faint quiver hinted at his own apprehension. “Alpha Derek, Kael, you’ve requested ...