章 22: Chapter 22: The Fractured Council

Aveline stood in the center of the council chamber with her hands holding the edge of the wooden table. The room was filled with tension and anger as the pack's elders and leaders filed in, their expressions showing from being careful to open aggression. She stood there and her mind went to the several cautions Gabriel had given to her in his pack. "The Shadow Council isn't just penetrating your pack—they're planning an attack", "I have spies in your pack and they've been feeding me information for months. That's how I know Thorne is working with the Shadow Council".

Thorne entered last, his movements were slow and purposeful, as if rejoicing on the chaos he had sown. He took a seat opposite Aveline, his sharp eyes shining with challenge between them.

Aveline began her speech after clearing her throat. "Thank you all for coming. We have a serious threat becoming visible over our pack, one we must face together."