Third person POV
The grand hall of the late Alpha Rowland’s estate was still draped in black banners, the lingering scent of mourning incense heavy in the air. Chairs had been arranged in a perfect circle, as was tradition for council gatherings, yet the emptiness left by Rowland’s absence was almost tangible. His chair—larger than the rest, carved with the symbols of his lineage—remained empty at the head of the circle. A silver candle burned before it, a solemn acknowledgment that his spirit had not yet faded from memory.
Council members filled the room, some stiff with grief, others sharp-eyed and restless. Beta Morris, who had served Rowland faithfully for decades, sat silently with hands clasped, jaw tight. Several elders shifted uncomfortably, voices low as they whispered among th
