The council chamber was a place of ancient tradition. Once, it had been a symbol of unity in Ashen Hollow, where both humans and supernaturals gathered to keep the fragile peace between their worlds. But lately, it had become a battlefield—one where whispered plots and growing distrust had taken root. The stone walls, which had once felt solid and enduring, now seemed to pulse with the weight of unspoken conflict.
Today, however, the conflict would be laid bare.
Lena walked the cobbled streets toward the council hall, her footsteps heavy with dread. The message had been delivered earlier that morning—an official summons from the human council members. The wording had been formal, but there was an undercurrent of accusation in the tone that sent a chill down her spine. Something felt wron
