Chapter 10 - THE BETRAYAL INSIDE THE NORTHERN CROWN
Dr. Alistair Voss was found in an abandoned lodge near the Canadian border.
He had not been hiding alone.
Investigators discovered correspondence linking him to Lord Marcus Vale.
The western council leader.
The man who had demanded Elara's confinement.
Damian summoned an emergency council session.
Marcus arrived with a confident smile.
“My king.”
Damian looked at him.
“Sit.”
Marcus obeyed.
Gideon placed documents on the table.
“We have evidence of unlawful coordination between Lord Vale and Dr. Voss.”
Marcus's smile vanished.
“Nonsense.”
Damian leaned forward.
“You knew about Elara.”
Marcus stared.
“I knew rumors.”
“You funded Voss.”
Silence.
“You supported the suppressive treatment.”
Marcus stood.
“The Moonborn threaten everything we've built!”
Damian's eyes flashed amber.
“What you've built?”
Marcus realized his mistake.
Too late.
The council chamber erupted.
Guards moved toward Marcus.
He attempted to flee.
But Damian blocked the exit.
“You used fear to justify imprisoning a child.”
Marcus snarled.
“You don't understand what she can do!”
Damian stepped closer.
“Then explain.”
Marcus's face twisted.
“A Moonborn can break an Alpha's command.”
Silence.
Damian stared.
Marcus continued.
“They can free wolves from dominance bonds. They can destroy the hierarchy.”
Damian looked toward Elara.
She stood beside Gideon.
Her silver eyes were bright.
“Is that true?” Damian asked.
Gideon nodded slowly.
“The ancient texts suggest it.”
Marcus laughed bitterly.
“And you want to make her queen?”
Damian turned back.
“If she chooses.”
Marcus stared.
Damian continued.
“Perhaps a kingdom that collapses when people are free to refuse was never stable to begin with.”
Marcus was taken into custody.
The council ordered a formal review of the old dominance laws.
Elara stood quietly beside Damian.
Then whispered, “You really meant that.”
He looked at her.
“What?”
“That people should be free to refuse.”
Damian nodded.
“Yes.”
May you like
Elara smiled through tears.
“Then maybe you're already becoming the king your people need.”
