The tension at the breakfast table was almost suffocating. Zale sat at the head of the table, his presence alone enough to keep everyone on edge. Forks scraped plates quietly, the sound of utensils the only thing breaking the silence. Leo and Elinor exchanged nervous glances, but no one dared to speak. Not with Zale there.
But something was off—Solace wasn't at the table, which only added to the uneasy atmosphere.
Frank cleared his throat softly as he entered the room, a letter clutched tightly in his hand. His face was pale, and his eyes flicked nervously toward Zale before settling on Soren.
"Soren," Frank said quietly, his voice shaky. "A message has arrived. From…Alpha Shilister."
At the mention of Shilister's name, the room seemed to freeze. Leo's hand stilled mid-air, his face instantly draining of color. Elinor's fork clattered onto his plate, his eyes wide with fear. Zale's jaw tightened, his expression darkening as he locked eyes with Frank.
