BRAHAM'S POV
The Council chamber was designed to intimidate.
I'd been in this room dozens of times as Alpha King. But lately, I'd been the one questioned, and at this point, I was feeling insulted and looked down upon.
The Council had formally requested this audience two days ago, citing "concerns that require immediate address." I could have refused—technically, as Alpha King, I had that right. But refusing would have made me look guilty, defensive, like I had something to hide.
So I'd granted their request. On the record. Making it clear that I was here by choice, not by summons.
Renan stood beside me as we entered, his presence steady and reassuring. The chamber was already half-full—Council members taking their seats, pack elders gathering in the observation area, other pack alpha
