Are you truly here to serve the kingdom or to spy for another pack? Perhaps one that thrives on our weaknesses?"
Athena's breath caught. "No… no, that's not…"
"Answer the question!" Mortan's voice thundered, making her flinch. "You're an outsider, born beyond our borders. You have no blood claim, no lineage, no reason to interfere. Why should we trust your word?"
Athena's gaze darted toward Ruby, searching for any sign of support. But Ruby sat motionless, her face carved in stone, pretending not to know her at all.
The air grew suffocating. The murmurs became whispers of accusation, of betrayal.
And through it all, Kraven stood beside her… silent. His expression was cold, unreadable.
Say something… please… Athena's heart screamed the words she couldn't voice. But Kraven never turned his head.
The council chamber buzzed with tense murmurs that rolled like distant thunder.
