The summit came to an end without incident.
At least, that was how it appeared on the surface.
The grand hall, once filled with overlapping voices, negotiations, and the quiet tension of powerful alphas measuring one another, had begun to thin out. Delegates lingered in small clusters, finishing conversations that had stretched far longer than intended, while others took their leave with practiced politeness.
It had been a success.
That much was undeniable.
The goal of the summit—to rebuild connections, strengthen alliances—had been achieved. Agreements had been made, tensions eased where possible, and lines drawn where necessary.
Kastiel stood among them, composed as always, his presence alone commanding attention without effort. Conversations seemed to shift around him, subtle but noticeable, as those nearby adjusted themselves in his orbit.
He had already spoken to most of the leaders worth speaking to.
Now, he was simply enduring the rest.
"Alpha King."
