A Budding DeceptionSilas's POVThe grand hall smells of polished mahogany, rich leather, and overpriced colognes.Huge glass chandeliers hang high above the central aisle, casting long shadows across the hundreds of regional leaders packed into the tier seating. I stand near the heavy iron doors on the western side of the room, my hand resting on my belt. My shoulder hurts where the wound from last week is still healing, but I keep my posture straight.At the center platform, King Valerius sits in the high iron chair. Emery stands two steps behind his right shoulder, dressed in a sleek charcoal dress with thin silver threading along the sleeves. She looks ethereal, still, and completely composed.Her full body has changed over the years, still ravishing in its fullness, there is a defined quality to her now that shows just how strong she is.Cassius walks up to the central podium, raising both hands to address the crowd."Honored Alphas, elders, and delegates," Cassius begins, his lou
Last Updated : 2026-08-25 Read more