Thorne's POV
The first lesson I learned at my father's side is that an Alpha cannot afford sentiment or pity. Compassion weakens, and mercy blinds. To lead is to choose ruthlessly, even when your people curse you for it.
This was before the weight of this mantle was pressed onto my shoulders. And yet, as I sat in the Council chamber, the air thick with fear and whispers of war, I wondered if even I had grown too soft.
They argued like children. Like I was not in the seat.
"The Shadowfang demands her death," Maris said. "If we resist, they will strike."
"And if we give them what they want?" Garrick countered. "Do you believe they will stop there? That would mean we are weak, and if they get that idea, they will come for our borders next."
Cowards, all of them.
I raised my hand, and t
