The council chamber the next day was cloaked in a heavy, uneasy silence. Not one official dared meet Theo’s eyes. The new of Peter’s head rolling before Alpha Damian had traveled faster than wildfire, burning fear into the hearts of all who had once whispered against him. Theo entered with calm authority, his expression unreadable, though his very presence pressed against them like an iron weight. He did not need to raise his voice; his silence was louder than any words. One of the older officials cleared his throat nervously. “Alpha Theo… about the—” Theo’s gaze cut to him, sharp and cold, and the man immediately looked down at his notes, his lips snapping shut. Every member of the council remembered how Peter had strutted in arrogance after Theo had seemingly favored him, only to be