Amara's vision cleared slowly, the world sharpening around her as the healer's herbs worked their magic. She lay on the soft cot, Lucian's steady presence beside her, his warmth a tether to reality.
She opened her eyes to see Lucian's golden gaze dark with fury, fear and something she didn't understand yet. He brushed a stray hair from her forehead. "How do you feel?"
"Better," Amara whispered, voice hoarse but determined. "What about him?"
Lucian's jaw tightened. "He'll answer for this."
Moments later, Lucian stood before the closed council chamber doors. He pushed them open. Theo sat at the head of the table, looking every bit the composed Beta—until Lucian's fist slammed onto the stone surface.
"You poisoned her," Lucian growled, eyes burning. "You betrayed this pack. I clearly gave my warnings about her. No one is to touch her."
Theo rose slowly, expression carefully neutral. "You have no proof."
Lucian's gaze flicked to the healer's satchel at his side. "The healer's report says poison—black ash under her skin,it was traced to your room. Care to explain?"
A murmur rippled through the room as council members turned. Theo's composure wavered for the first time. He met Lucian's glare. "She's a threat to our future. I did what I had to do."
Amara, summoned by Lucian's call, stepped into the chamber. Pale but resolute, she met Theo's eyes. "I came here as a city girl. You all treated me like a disease. But I'm no threat—except to liars."
The gray‑bearded elder rose, voice heavy. "Theo Greystone, Beta of Blackwood, you stand accused of treachery—of turning against your own blood." He turned to the other council members. "Do we tolerate this?"
One by one, wolves nodded: betrayal would not stand. Theo's shoulders slumped as the verdict echoed through the stone hall.
Outside the chamber, Lucian helped Amara to her feet. He draped his cloak around her shoulders. "You did well."
Amara met his gaze. "We did."
Lucian's fierce expression softened into something warmer. "Welcome to the pack—officially."