The council's daily briefing started like any other. Seven members seated around the curved table. Observers taking notes in the corner. Darius and I in our assigned chairs, maintaining the perfect image of calm cooperation.

Then Gideon walked in.

He wasn't supposed to be there. Students weren't invited to strategic briefings. But he entered like he owned the room, carrying a leather folder and wearing the kind of smile that made my wolf snarl.

"My apologies for the interruption." He bowed ...