Aurelia's POV
The silence in the Ancestral Hall was deafening. All eyes were on Julian, waiting for his decision. The ancient tome lay open before Bernard, the ceremonial quill poised above the pristine page.
"Proceed with the recording," Julian finally said, his voice strained.
My heart sank, but I wasn't surprised. Seven years of manipulation wouldn't unravel with one confrontation. I squared my shoulders and gripped the envelope tighter.
Bernard dipped the quill in ink. "I hereby record the official recognition of Emma Beaumont, daughter of Natalie Beaumont, into the Valois bloodline as the daughter of Alpha King Julian Valois."
I couldn't let this happen. Not after everything. Not after Violet.
"Stop!" I strode forward, my white dress billowing around me like wings. "This is a desecration of pack law!"
