Chapter 44: They Come

The great hall buzzed with tension as Robert and I slipped in, taking our places near the back. Malcolm stood at the center, his scarred face set in its usual scowl. The pack members around us shifted uneasily, whispers rippling through the crowd.

"What do you think this is about?" I murmured to Robert, acutely aware of his presence beside me.

He shook his head slightly, his eyes never leaving his father. "Nothing good," he whispered back. "Just stay alert."

Malcolm raised his hand, silencing the murmurs. "My loyal pack," he began, his voice carrying easily through the hall. "We stand on the brink of a new era. With the True Luna in our midst, our power will be unmatched."

His eyes found mine in the crowd, a predatory smile spreading across his face. I felt a chill run down my spine, remembering the conversation I'd overheard. What was he planning?

"Soon," Malcolm continued, "we will—"