The council chambers were inside a mountain. Actually inside it, carved into the rock centuries ago by werewolves who wanted a fortress that could never be breached. Evie stood at the massive iron doors, trying not to let her nervousness show.
"Remember," Victoria whispered beside her. "Confidence. Eye contact. Never apologize for who you are."
The doors opened. Inside was a vast circular chamber lit by torches on the walls. In the center was a raised platform. Around it sat the Ancient Council, twelve of the oldest and most powerful werewolves in existence.
They looked terrifying. Some appeared old, with white hair and wrinkled faces. Others looked young but had eyes that held centuries of knowledge. All of them radiated power.
Gideon walked beside Evie, his hand at her back. Victoria
