MAXIMUS:
The council chamber smelled of incense and fear. The elders sat in a stiff semicircle, their voices a low murmur until I entered. Instantly, silence.
“Alpha,” Elder Rowan began, his tone far too cautious for my liking. “The raids are increasing. Ravensclaw—they’ve stopped our trade, burned our crops, and kidnapped our people. If this continues unchecked, our pack will collapse.”
I slammed my palm against the table. “Do you think I don’t know that? We can’t go in blindly. Their moves are calculated; this is not a recent development. We need information before we strike. My warriors bleed every night to keep this pack safe. The borders are secure except the eastern side—that will be handled. Do not mistake my silence for weakness.”
Another elder cleared his throat. “We are not q
