Chapter 14: The First Test of Power

Lyria’s POV Dawn crept over Bloodshield Keep like a hesitant predator, softening the shadows but failing to touch the fear that lingered in every corner. I stood at the edge of the Council chamber, Kael behind me, our bond humming like a live wire between us. Every Alpha, every beta, every guard felt it her. The Phoenix Alpha reborn from fire and betrayal. Rowan’s face was pale, sweat glistening on his brow, his hands tight at his sides. He had tried to rally his people, tried to act like...