Elira's POV
The words hit me like cold water thrown directly at my face.
‘Elira's immediate removal from the Blackthorn Pack.’
I couldn't move. Couldn't speak. My hands went completely numb where they sat in my lap and the mating bond inside my chest twisted so violently I pressed my fist against my sternum just to breathe through it.
Kael didn't move either.
The room held its breath.
Then Kael turned toward Lucien slowly and his voice came out so controlled it was terrifying.
"On what grounds?" he demanded coldly
Lucien stepped fully into the room and lowered his voice. "The decree cites pack safety."
"Pack safety?" Kael repeated.
"They are calling her a threat." Lucien said carefully. "To Blackthorn. To its members. To the heir she carries."
I stood from the bed before I reali
