The manor gates crashed open under heavy boots before the sun even broke the horizon.
"Damien, they are here already," Jax called from the window, voice low and sharp. "Pack Council. Five of them. Looking pissed and armed."
I pulled Avery close in the side hall. "Stay calm. Victor is still breathing but out cold. Coma. They blame you. We play this smart or they take you for real."
The front doors burst wide. Council Elder Marcus led the charge, gray beard bristling, flanked by the others in formal coats. "Damien. Where is the girl? Avery stands accused of high treason. Stabbing Victor Blackthorn. We demand her arrest now."
Avery stepped forward but I blocked her. "Elder Marcus, slow down. It was a synthetic plant. Serena. She framed Avery clean. Victor is alive. We have proof."
Marcu
