Chapter 225 The Prisoners

• The grand hall was filled with the quiet murmur of anticipation, the air thick with the scent of pine and incense as the Pack gathered for the coronation ceremony. Candles flickered on every surface, casting a warm, golden glow that softened the sharp edges of the room and the tension that hummed beneath the surface.
• Aidan stood at the center of it all, his heart pounding in his chest. He was dressed in the ceremonial robes of the Alpha, a deep crimson that contrasted starkly with the paleness of his skin. The weight of the cloak around his shoulders felt like the weight of the world, and he could feel the eyes of the Pack on him, their expectations heavy and unspoken. The elders were gathered at the front. The Priestess stood beside them, her hands clasped in front of her, a serene expression on her face.
• Aidan's eyes roamed the crowd, searching for a familiar face. Where was Isaac? His heart sank as he realized his brother was nowhere to be found. He scanned the room again, his gaze landing on Blake, who was standing off to the side, his expression unreadable. When Blake caught his eye, he gave a small nod of approval, his silent support reassuring but not enough to ease the growing unease in Aidan's chest.