The tension in the council hall thickened like a storm cloud, every eye shifting between Ronan and Gideon as the aftermath of the rogue attack settled into uneasy silence. Layla could still feel the lingering heat of the power she had wielded, the stunned expressions of the gathered alphas seared into her mind. But none of it mattered now, because her father was making his next move.
Gideon stepped forward, his presence commanding, as if he were already declaring victory. He straightened his shoulders, his smirk confident, knowing full well that his influence carried weight among the alphas present. "Stormborn, you speak of fated bonds and destiny as though they override the laws of the packs. But I see nothing but weakness in your claim."
Ronan didn’t move, but his muscles tensed beneat
