Chapter 9

• The murmuring of the pack members, which had been a low hum of curiosity moments before, now began to coalesce into a more directed wave of awareness. Tallia felt it wash over her, a tangible pressure of gazes, each one attempting to decipher her, to understand her place in their world. Kael's arm remained a steady anchor around her shoulders, his presence a silent reassurance against the sea of unknown eyes. She realized then that her integration wasn't just about Kael accepting her; it was about the pack accepting her, and that was a far more complex and daunting prospect.
• She observed Kael interact with those closest to him, his Alpha authority a palpable aura that commanded respect without needing to be asserted. Anya, the silver-haired woman, moved to his side, her posture shifting from polite observer to a trusted confidante. "Kael," she began, her voice a low, resonant tone that carried easily through the quiet air, "the council has been eager to meet her." Her eyes flicked towards Tallia, a subtle, almost imperceptible nod of acknowledgement. "They wish to understand the circumstances of your mate’s arrival."
• Tallia’s breath hitched. A council? She hadn’t even begun to process the idea of a pack, let alone a governing body within it. Kael, sensing her unease, tightened his grip slightly. "They will have their opportunity, Anya. But first, she needs to acclimate. To understand our ways." He turned to Tallia, his golden eyes softening as they met hers. "The council consists of our most experienced and respected members. They are the keepers of our traditions, the advisors to the Alpha. They hold significant influence, and their approval is vital."