Lucas’s POV
I waited in the empty council room, Aurelio standing at my side. His gaze was hard as we discussed what lay ahead. I kept my tone steady, masking any hints of exhaustion. I couldn't afford to show weakness.
"Aurelio," I said, my eyes narrowing as they scanned the map on the table before me, "is Elara secure? Has she been taken somewhere safe?"
“Yes, Alpha,” he replied. “Sabrina and Adrian took her through the back passages. She’s out of harm’s way for now. The safehouse should keep her hidden from anyone aligned with your father.”
A small bit of tension eased from my shoulders. “Good. And the innocents?”
“We’ve gathered as many of the non-combatants as possible in the northern wing, away from the fighting. Most are frightened, but they’re secure.” He paused, his voice dropping to a deadly calm. “Alpha… grant me the honor of killing those who’ve betrayed you.”