As Lucien made the news, I could sense the tension in the air. His voice was firm, but his expression showed the stress that went into this choice. With the early dawn light creating lengthy shadows, he had assembled the pack in the courtyard and spoke to us in a calm but stern tone.
He said, looking across the audience, "We need every advantage we can get against Alec and his forces." "For this reason, I have made the decision to form a temporary alliance with Valen."
With a look of surprise and bewilderment on their features, a murmur swept through the throng. They were all aware of Valen's past, his erratic loyalty, and his relationship with Alec. There was skepticism about depending on him as an ally, and I could see it in their eyes as I glanced about.
