“We shall take our leave, as the hour grows late,” Council Elder Anika spoke as she too stood. “Your hospitality was as generous as always, Salem.”
“You’re leaving?” Tove asked, looking at the seven Elders.
“There is nothing left for us to do here.” Council Elder Carnain picked at invisible lint on his sleeve.
“What about me?” Tove demanded.
“You will remain, and your alpha will deal with you.” Council Elder Warren looked questioningly at Marcus, who quickly nodded. “Be assured, Tove, we know you tread on thin ice; do not make us return because the ice broke.”
“What about the attack?” Michael asked into the commotion of the Great Council getting ready to leave.
“We are watching everywhere. When we know more, you will know more.” Council Elder Novack smiled tightly. “I suggest a full complement of your House be present for the next Court, Salem. We shall hold Court here and we will expect that the usual protocols be followed.”
The Great Council walked out of the meeting room with the Prime Castors, who would portal them to their next destination. Cord accompanied the Sisters, speaking quietly to them. Cornelius hurried after the Council, and Balrack followed dutifully after him.
“And me, Alpha?” Tove asked quietly.
“Back to your room for now,” Marcus sighed heavily. Tove strode out of the room.
“Dad? I need to talk about this, but can I rest first?” Michael asked as he rubbed his neck.
“Come, I would sleep also,” Tegan said, and they both left.
“What the hell just happened?” Salem asked Marcus quietly when the room was once again empty.
“I’m fuzzy on the reaction of the Great Council. That they came here, only to leave again but insist on a full Court. It makes no sense, but I can tell you what IthinkI know?”
“Anything is better than thenothingI know now,” Salem grumbled as he rubbed his face tiredly. “And I thought I would sleep this night.” With a shake of his head, he left the meeting room and headed to his office. Salem headed straight to the liquor cabinet and poured a generous measure of bourbon, which he handed to Marcus before pouring himself one and taking a hearty drink. “Okay, old friend. I’m ready to try to figure this mess out.”
Cord walked back into the Northern Headquarters, his head full to overflowing. That had been so close—the Three knew that he was lying through his teeth, but the truth was not ready to be told.Stupid female,Cord grumbled. So adamant to be noble and honourable, even when he was sticking his neck out for her. Movement caught his eye, and he saw Sloane leaning against a wall, waiting for him.
“You balls it up?” Sloane asked conversationally.
“No, I saved the day.” Cord smirked at him. “Again.”
“You’re a lucky son of a Drakhyn.” Sloane grunted. “They left Tove behind.”
“Her alpha is to discipline her.” Cord shrugged; he did not fear the Lycan.
“Well, she may as well be let go now,” Sloane growled in discontent.
“I thought you were a fan?” Cord mocked.
“I was, until she put a blade to my brother’s throat and ordered one at Tegan’s.” Sloane looked over his shoulder. “Speaking of family...is he gone?”
Cord barked out a laugh. “Yes, your father ran after the Great Council like the lapdog he is.”
The two of them began to climb the stairs to the sleeping quarters. “You wish to stay in the visiting Castor’s room?” Sloane asked curiously.
“No. I think tonight I will bunk with my little brother.” Cord grinned wickedly at Sloane.
“You want to be closer to Tegan,” Sloane answered him flatly. “You are almost transparent, it’s pathetic.”
“She needs to sleep,” Cord murmured as they reached the landing. “She is running on empty.”
“Because you had her trapped in the Tower.” Sloane cut a glare to his brother.
“You knew?”