Chapter 172

Days has passed since Ardan was banished… since I banished him, and today, the council hall was filled with voices from every corner. I simply stood by the side, clasping my hands and trying to mask the anxiety that I felt. Their eyes were all on me and it me feel exposed and vulnerable, like I was standing at the edge of the cliff with no were to go but down. Caden stood front and centre. His posture was relaxed though commanding. He was the natural born leader. “Today,” he began, smiling, “we stand at a turning point. The pack has faced challenges—betrayals, attacks, and uncertainty. But through it all, one person has remained steady, guiding us, protecting us.” He turned to me with pride. “Serena, the Wolf mother, our new alpha.” Everyone present began cheering aloud. The pack chanted my name with respect. “She has proven herself more competent than any leader before her,” Caden continued. “More competent than Ardan ever was.” The whole crowd gathered immediately agreed. “Hot-headed