I sat at the head of the long, carved wooden table in the council chamber, my fingers tapping against the armrest, a steady rhythm to keep my mind focused. The room was filled with the most powerful wolves in the kingdom—advisors and elders who had stood by my side since I became king. But today, their faces were more severe than usual. I had expected their coming the moment the war started. I knew why they had gathered. This wasn’t just about the growing threat of Nate’s attacks—it was about Olivia. And my rule. Roderick, the eldest among them, and one of the wolves who had served my father before me, cleared his throat. “Bustan, the council has come together to address...concerns,” he started, his voice trailed off. His sharp gaze cut through the room. “The people are growing uneasy. Na

