VIVIENNE's POV
Mh hand tightened into fists by my side as I stared up at the sky above.
The sky was gray, casting a somber shadow over the entire pack and the pack members on the ritual ground.
An ancient elder—a seer with silver-blind eyes stood over the stone altar, chanting low, haunting incantations as she performed the final rites over Elder Vance's body.
My hand clenched even tighter, my nails digging into the flesh of my palm.
The air was solemn, thick with scent of burning wood and pine.
My eyes stung with unshed tears as I stared at the lifeless form of Elder Vance body on the altar.
Roman was right behind me, his massive chest pressed against my back.
His broad arms were wrapped tightly around my waist, keeping me grounded, while his fingers gently dug into my hair, smoothening it.
Maddox, Rhys and Cassian stood just beside Roman, their towering frames forming an impenetrable wall of muscle and dark Alpha aura as they watched the ceremony unfold.
