"We cannot assume anything yet without concrete evidence," an Elder interrupted, uncertainty and denial rich in his tone. "This could be one of many forms of otherworldly attacks. Humans against vampires, werewolves against demons, witches against faeries, or even among themselves,"
"Elder Themoldyth is right," another Elder spoke in agreement. "We cannot be certain of anything else without evidence. This is an accusation, a higher one for that matter—one that might invite the Tithes at our doorstep,"
"I, too, agree. There have been no traces of him anywhere around the werewolves, nor the Trinity,"
A tense silence settled across the chamber after the last Elder spoke, the kind that did not soothe the room but sharpened every instinct and resolve. Torchlight trembled against the stone walls, shadows stretching long across the council table where the map lay scarred beneath pins and fresh ink.
