Killian’s POV
The scent of ink and aged leather filled the room as I leaned back, fingers grazing the cool surface of the polished desk. Across from me, Alpha Kane sat with his Beta and Third-in-Command, their sharp gazes locked onto mine.
"Your Highness," Kane began, his voice deep and measured.
"The border patrols have reported increased rogue activity near our eastern perimeter. A few skirmishes already, but nothing major—yet. If we don’t act now, it could turn into a full-blown invasion."
I drummed my fingers against the desk, processing his words.
"How many casualties?"
Kane exhaled sharply.
"Four dead. Two missing. My men are holding their ground, but it’s clear these bastards are testing us. If they push harder, we’ll need reinforcements."
Rogues.
Filthy, unclaimed mutts with no allegiance, no pack, no order. Their only instinct was survival, and in their desperation, they threatened the balance I had spent years establishing.
I had always eliminated them at first sight, ho
