"So you refused," Maison said, studying them with cold assessment. "And he punished you."
Robert nodded, unconsciously touching a scar that disappeared beneath his collar. "We were lucky to survive. Others who questioned him weren't so fortunate."
I turned away, needing a moment to process. Star prowled restlessly in my mind, her emotions a complex tangle of rage, vindication, and something dangerously close to pity.
-They were children too,- she reluctantly acknowledged. -Twisted by a monster.-
-They knew better,- I argued silently.
-Yes,- Star agreed. -But they're trying to make amends now.-
I turned back to face the small delegation, my decision crystallising. "Here's what's going to happen. I am claiming my position as Alpha of the Graystone pack, but on my terms. The pack struct
