I was about to respond, but Evan's next words stopped me dead in my tracks.
“The fourth leader is Nola!”
I looked up, my face a mixture of confusion and surprise. The banquet hall erupted in murmurs, all eyes once again focused on me.
I glanced at Carlos. He sat on the leader's dais, clapping with a faint smile. His eyes held no surprise, only encouragement and appreciation, as if he had known all along.
A server presented an ornate box. Evan retrieved a scepter from within and gestured for me to approach. I rose and slowly walked towards the dais.
The scepter was a deep, rich black, topped with a brilliant sapphire. Intricate silver wolf fangs were carved around the gem, symbolizing frost and resilience.
It was my father's scepter.
My hands trembled slightly as I almost cradled
