Chapter 14: The Traitor Within
The atmosphere in the Moonwood Manor was toxic. The sheer, raw force of the Alpha Mate bond display had shaken the Riverbend envoys, forcing Elara to acknowledge the futility of her public humiliation strategy. Yet, the victory was fragile, and the threat of the Riverbend Alpha remained.
As Elias ended the powerful kiss, his eyes were locked on Elara. Her face was pale, twisted by a mixture of shock and unconcealed hatred. The two commanders flanking her looked unnerved, having witnessed a primal power that transcended politics.
"You have seen the bond, Emissary," Elias stated, his voice ringing with finality. "The legitimacy of the Luna is absolute. Moonwood is united. Your demands are rejected. Leave our territory."
Elara’s veneer of control snapped. "Y
