Page 32 of Shapeshifter's Vengeance

“No,” I say, sighing. “Just trying to make sense of it all.”

He nods, looking at the papers scattered across my desk. “We’ll get there. We always do.”

I smile, appreciating his optimism. “Thanks, Mark.”

He leaves, and I return to the file, my mind still racing. Zara knows more than she’s saying. I’m sure of it. But how do I get her to talk?

The rest of the day passes in a blur of paperwork and meetings. By the time I head home, I’m exhausted. I unlock the door to my house and step inside, the familiar surroundings offering a small comfort. I collapse onto the couch, my mind still racing.

Chapter 14: Cassandra

EVELYN

The council chamber buzzes with energy as I step inside, the heavy wooden doors closing behind me. The room, filled with the scent of ancient parchment and incense, feels both welcoming and oppressive. I walk towards the podium, every eye in the room following my steps. The council members, seated in a semi-circle, radiate authority and centuries of accumulated wisdom.

Elder Thaddeus clears his throat, breaking the silence. "Evelyn, we are eager to hear your report. What news do you bring?"

I stand tall, my voice steady. "We believe we have identified the source of the recent murders. A shapeshifter may be involved."

A ripple of disbelief spreads through the council. Elder Miriam, her eyes sharp and skeptical, speaks up. "Shapeshifters are extinct, Evelyn. They were eradicated during the Great War."

I meet her gaze unflinchingly. "Not all of them. Zara is still alive, and she hinted that others might have survived as well."

The room falls silent, the council members exchanging uneasy glances. I take a deep breath and continue, "Elara’s body is missing. We suspect someone is attempting to revive her powers and exact revenge."

Elder Thaddeus leans forward, his face grave. "If a shapeshifter has indeed survived, they pose a significant threat. You must find and stop them, Evelyn."

"I intend to," I reply firmly. "But I need assurances that Alexei will be protected. I can't pursue this lead effectively if I’m constantly worried about his safety."

There’s a heavy pause before Elder Thaddeus nods. "You have our word. Alexei will be safe. We will give you two more weeks to find the killer."

A sigh of relief escapes me. "Thank you."

Karla steps forward, her presence calming amidst the tension. "Remember, Evelyn, the coven is always here to assist you. Shapeshifters are extremely dangerous. Don’t hesitate to call upon us."

"I appreciate that, Karla," I say, hugging her briefly, glad we might be getting back on solid ground between us. "I might need your help sooner than later."

With the council’s assurance, I feel a renewed sense of purpose. As I leave the chamber, the gravity of the situation weighs heavily on me. Two weeks to find a shapeshifter who has managed to stay hidden for centuries. Great, just great! But at least it’s something.

Back at the department, I gather the task force in the briefing room. Mark, Linda, and Teresa sit around the table, their expressions serious and focused.

"We have two more weeks," I begin, "to find this shapeshifter. The council is giving us their full support, but we need to move quickly."

Mark nods, his brow furrowed. "What’s our next move?"

"We need to track down any surviving shapeshifters," I reply. "Ana’s sources in the Shadows might help. Linda, I want you to follow up with Ana. Teresa, continue digging into Elara’s background. There might be clues we’ve missed."

"Got it," Teresa says, jotting down notes.

"Mark, your job is to ensure Alexei’s safety. We can’t afford any more surprises."

"Understood," Mark replies, determination in his eyes.

"Let’s get to work," I say, my voice filled with resolve.

The team disperses, each member focused on their task. I return to my office, where the files on Elara are spread out across my desk. We’re missing something, and I’m determined to find it.

The coffee shop is a haven of normalcy amidst the chaos of my life. I sink into a corner seat by the window, cradling my coffee cup, hoping the warmth will chase away my worries. The soft hum of conversations and the occasional clink of cutlery are soothing, contrasting with the tension that's been my constant companion.

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