The Alpha Council Hall at the Royal Pack territory was a large circular room with twenty-four chairs arranged in a circle, occupied by the most powerful Alphas in North America. Klaus strode in, his posture impeccable, his face revealing nothing of the turmoil he felt inside. His three brothers were already seated on the raised dais reserved for the royal family—Vincent,the eldest,calculating and cold; Marcus, diplomatic but opportunistic; and Daniel, who at least had the decency to look uncomfortable with the proceedings. Elder Ramirez, the most senior Council member, stood up. "We gather today to address the succession of the Alpha King throne," he announced. "As our beloved late King left no clear heir, tradition dictates a formal selection process must now begin." Klau

