Zaiden’s POV
The council hall reeked of smoke and blood. My warriors stood tense in a circle, their eyes flicking between me, the bound rogue at the center, and my Beta Cole.
I stalked closer to the prisoner. “Who sent you?”
The wolf spat blood onto the floor but his voice trembled. “I was only a messenger.”
“Messenger for who?” My growl shook the rafters.
His cracked lips twisted. “Your Beta promised us more than this.”
The words hit like a blade. Gasps broke out. My wolves shifted uncomfortably, eyes darting toward Cole.
Cole bristled instantly, stepping forward. “That’s a lie!” His voice thundered. “You think I’d betray you, Alpha? I’ve stood by you through every battle, every scar! He’s throwing my name to save his worthless hide.”
Murmurs rose. Doubt crept like smoke.
The rog
