The Grand Council Chamber was not a place for jokes or small talk, especially not in the cold light of morning. The heavy wooden table sat in the center, and the stone pillars stood like silent judges.

The Alphas arrived one by one, their faces were a mix of annoyance and worry. They hadn't been told why they were being called so early in the morning.

Alpha Lyra, her silver hair pulled back in a tight braid, was one of the first to speak. Her voice was sharp and clear. "Alpha Val, with all ...