Irene Silence. For a moment, that’s all there is — the thick, echoing quiet of judgment. Twelve Elders stare at us from their high desks, twelve pairs of eyes older than time itself. Their faces are carved with lines that speak of centuries, of victories and losses I can’t even imagine. Some of them study me with curiosity, their expressions soft, almost kind. Others look at me as though I’ve crawled out of a grave carrying bad omens. The rest… I can’t read. Then, the eldest Elder rises. His robe is the color of storm clouds, his hair long and silver as frost. When he speaks, his voice fills the chamber — deep, resonant, and calm, yet heavy enough to make the air vibrate. “Welcome, Alphas Cassian, Rowan, Elias… Beta Kevin.” His gaze drifts finally to me, and something sharp flickers in his ancient eyes. “And you, child. The one whispered into being by the Goddess Herself.” I bow my head slightly, unsure what to do or say. No one had prepared me for this kind of silence —
Last Updated : 2025-10-18 Read more