Caleb’s POV
The council chamber smelled faintly of ink and old parchment. The long oak table was crowded with scrolls, maps, and steaming cups of tea. My beta, Rowan, stood at my right, pointing to a parchment that outlined the preparations for Crystal’s convocation ceremony.
“The guest packs are expected to arrive within a week,” Rowan said. “We’ll need extra guards patrolling the borders. I’ve already doubled shifts, but with the winter storms, supplies will be strained.”
One of the elders grunted in agreement. “The convocation must be perfect. Crystal is to be celebrated as Luna. Any sign of weakness will invite whispers.”
Their words prickled beneath my skin. Whispers had already begun. I had felt them in the gazes of other Alphas, in the careful tone of allies who questioned why i
