"Power is a double-edged blade—one that can either shield or sever, depending on who wields it."
The Diplomatic Gathering
The grand hall was filled with nobles, foreign emissaries, and commanders—wolves and humans alike. Crystal chandeliers cast light over the gathering, illuminating faces filled with carefully concealed agendas.
I stood near the center, a glass of wine in hand, speaking in hushed tones with General Wren, the leader of Verauno’s northern forces. His dark eyes were calculating, but his words were laced with diplomacy.
“The border skirmishes are worsening,” Wren murmured. “The rebels are getting bolder. We need to tighten the patrols before they test our defenses again.”
Before I could respond, I felt her before I saw her.
Aria entered the hall, clad in deep crimson, h
