Chapter 33

Kaden let out a slow, controlled breath as he pushed the heavy oak doors open. The sound echoed through the council chamber, drawing every eye to him. His clothes were still singed from the flames, his dark hair smelling faintly of smoke.

Marek sat at the head of the council table, his face as hard as stone. Eron and Callan flanked him, both radiating the same blend of outrage and impatience that made Kaden's teeth clench. The tension in the room was suffocating.

"Kaden," Marek began, his voice a low, accusing rumble, "this is unacceptable."