Athena's throat went dry. Her mind spun back to Ruby's words, to Xavier's reassurance.
Even if you blame Kraven… the Council won't do anything against him.
Her breath caught. Was this what they meant? Was this the proof?
The clang of her chains filled the silence as she whispered to herself… too low for anyone to hear…
This is true! Kraven is not going to get punished but me.
Her gaze lifted to Kraven one last time, searching for an answer in his unreadable eyes. But all she found there was ice.
The clang of the gavel silenced the whispers.
Elder Mortan, the eldest among the Council, leaned forward from his throne-like seat. His voice rumbled through the hall.
"Alpha Kraven Thorne," he began, "you stand before the Council accused of consorting with humans and being involved in the distribution of a forbidden substance. What do you have to say in your defense?"
Kraven's posture didn't falter. His expression remained composed… calm, almost detached.
