The Bloodvale courtroom was carved from black obsidian stone, vast and echoing, its domed ceiling etched with ancient markings of past Alpha Kings. Torches blazed on each pillar, casting flickering shadows across the rows of seated elders, nobles, and warriors. The room vibrated with quiet unrest.
Jenna stood near the center dais, slightly behind Alpha Kaelion, wrapped in a deep sapphire cloak that swallowed her trembling hands. Her throat felt dry. Every eye in the room cut into her—judging, curious, disapproving.
Alpha Kaelion stood tall beside her, a mask of cool authority on his face. But even Jenna could feel the undercurrent of tension radiating from him.
“Let the record reflect,” boomed Elder Rorik, slamming a staff onto the stone. “That the court has been summoned to investigate
