Chapter 23 – The Alpha's Decree

Gabriel

I watched with grim satisfaction as Elias stalked away, tail tucked in humiliated defeat. His followers scattered like startled prey, no longer emboldened by their ringleader's bravado now that his treacheries had been exposed.

Once the last of the disgraced elder's cohorts had slunk away, I turned back to Talon and Kira. The old shaman watched me with a measured gaze, while my beta's hackles were still raised, muscles coiled like an apex predator ready to strike if need be.

"Well, that insurrection was quashed with surprising ease," I rumbled, unable to resist a small smirk. "Though I suspect Elias' bitterness will continue festering unless I deal with him decisively."

Talon gave a curt nod of agreement. "The old fool won't take this lying down. He'll lick his wounds and no doubt begin plotting anew to undermine you at every turn."

"Then we must be vigilant and cut off any further vipers' nests before they can take root," I said, which features hardening. "But that is a conc