Chapter 26: Fractured Loyalty

Vickson's POV

The night air was thick with the aroma of blood and treachery. It was too late to turn back now as I stood before the council with my heart racing and my fists clenched. 

Ava was across from me, grinning and her face so pleased with the havoc she had wrought. Hailey was behind me- crouched low, breathing fast; her fingers trembled in mine. The moment was heavy enough to crack me wide open but I couldn't afford to falter.

The voice of the council elder was grave. "Alpha Vickson, one decision you make next will determine the fate of your pack." "Will you give up the children, or will you seek a confrontation with forces beyond our control?"