[Third Person]
The great hall of the Oatrun estate shimmered under the pale gold light of suspended crystal lanterns.
Their soft glow reflected across polished marble floors and tall silver columns, casting fleeting glints over the banners of the five royal packs that hung proudly behind the high dais.
The air was thick with the mingled scents of wine, roasted meats, and wolf pheromones, held carefully in check, as restrained power and ambition were woven into the same space.
Every seat had been filled. The alphas of the royal packs had already arrived with their entourages, each bringing the unique essence of their territories into the room.
To Randall's left sat Alpha Magnus of the Moonstone Pack, serene and composed, the faint herbal scent of his robes hinting at the pack's mastery of medicine and poison.
Beside him was his Beta, Gabriel Carter, Meredith's father. His expression fixed, almost studiously indifferent, as his sharp eyes observed the hall.
