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Back in my seat, I try to make myself as small as possible. I don't like being the center of attention like that, and it's a relief to be offstage, even though I can feel eyes looking at me from across the theater.

Fortunately, I have my three Alphas to protect me. Even Kane, who is sitting behind me, looks oddly possessive and intent on hiding my body from view.

The entire audience is murmuring with conversations. No doubt everyone is discussing our plan.

I peek at Orch, and she gives me a supportive smile.

Meanwhile, onstage, the council leaders appear to have reached a decision. For nearly an hour, they've been there talking, their voices too low to be heard and their bodies as still as statues.

But now they started to move, nodding to each other in unison.

Addom steps forward again, spreading his hands out to signal the crowd to hush. No roaring or harsh words needed. The murmurs of the audience immediately subside into silence.

“The Council reached a decision.” He's not yelling,