The Council’s Ultimatum

(3rd person P. O. V)

Elder Theron exhaled sharply, rubbing his temple as if exhausted by the debate. The other council members watched him intently, waiting for his final decision. After a long pause, he finally spoke.

“Perhaps I was too quick to judge,” he admitted, “but understand this duty is to protect the balance of our kind. If we allow such an unprecedented bond without proof, we risk setting a dangerous precedent.”

His gaze flickered between Xavier, Oliver, and Elena before settling on Xavier’s aunt. “I will let this go under one condition-” his voice hardened, “you have three weeks to prove their bond before this council.”

Xavier’s aunt’s eyes flashed in protest. “Two weeks? That is far too little time to prove something as sacred as a mate bond, especially one as unique as theirs!”