RYKER’S POV

Lief ran into the war room, breathless. “They’re here,” he said. “The Council of Elders. All five. And the other Alphas from the northern packs.”

“Now?” I replied. My eyes narrowed.

“They said they heard the bond ceremony was completed. They’ve come for the marking.”

My jaw clenched. I had not anticipated the council of elders summoning the other Alphas to witness the ceremony.

I strode out, with my fur coat massively wrapped around me as I went to welcome ...