Page 57 of Lycan King's Claim
"They are deliberating," I reply, my voice tinged with defensiveness. "These matters require careful consideration and time."
Vin scoffs. "Time is not a luxury you have, Xandros. My patience wears thin. And let me remind you, the clock ticks not for me, but for your beloved Sienna." Glancing at the Council chambers I remain silent only for Vin to continue.
"And what of Carina?" He asks. Carina has remained elusive, she herself on the run from the very man taunting me, demanding the impossible of me.
"Your silence speaks volumes, Xandros,"
"We'll find her, I have Javier searching,"
"Well that doesn't sound promising now does it, fine then. For your lack of progress, I have a new demand," he snaps.
I clench my teeth annoyed, what more can he ask for. "I want my mate, ensure it, or I can't ensure Sienna's life," he answers.
"Vin you're asking for too much, you've asked for immunity and that they are already reluctant to grant," I snarl.
"Make it happen," he snaps.
His cruel reminder felt like a slap, jolting me back to the grim reality of Sienna's plight. "I'm doing everything in my power," I grit out, frustration seeping through my words.
“See that you do,” Vin retorts, his tone dripping with malice. “And remember, I'm watching.”
The line goes dead, leaving me to grapple with a swirl of emotions — anger, fear, helplessness. I clench my fist, anger bubbling beneath the surface, but I quickly tamp it down. Now isn’t the time for reckless emotions.
Feeling exposed in the vast courtyard, I retreat to the shadows of a nearby archway. Vin's warning is clear: he has informants everywhere. The gravity of the situation is evident. Not only must I convince the Council to cooperate, but I must also figure out how to outwit Vin and keep Sienna safe.
The dappled sunlight streaming through the trees casts playful shadows on the ground. But to me, they seem ominous, a reminder that in this deadly game, every move counts. My resolve strengthens. No matter the cost, no matter the sacrifice, I'll do whatever it takes to ensure Sienna's safety.
Upon re-entering the chamber, I'm met with an atmosphere thick with tension. The large hall, adorned with marble and gold, speaks of the Council's power and influence. Massive pillars reach towards a frescoes' ceiling that tells the tales of our people's ancient history. However, this intimidating grandeur pales in comparison to the power and responsibility held by the individuals seated at the long, curved table. Upon learning of King Vin's new demands for my so-called lack of progress they seem more deterred.
Eyes, varying in age and wisdom, follow my every move. Each Council member represents a different faction, and every decision they make can affect the balance of power. Right now, my plea has them divided. It was one thing demanding immunity another freeing Anita.
“Xandros,” begins the head Councilor, Elara, her silver hair cascading down her shoulders. She's been a constant presence throughout my life, a mentor of sorts. But today, her usually warm eyes are cold and calculating. “You ask a great deal of us, but we need assurance. How do we know this isn't a trap? That once we free Anita, Vin won't double-cross you?”
I take a deep breath. “I can only offer my word, Elara. And my willingness to risk everything for Sienna.”
A murmur of discussion ripples through the Council members. Some nod in understanding, while others seem more skeptical.
Another Councilor, the sharp-eyed man, interjects, “Your personal feelings are clouding your judgment, Xandros. What of the greater good? Can we really risk Anita's release, knowing the chaos she might cause?”
“I understand your concerns, but mate bonds are sacred, I am a king, I need my mate. You won't be just putting my mate at risk but my kingdom if my bond turns crazed,” I counter, keeping my voice steady. The Council Elders know I am right, but letting Anita go also runs the risk of losing Vin if he flees with her. For now, Vin won't travel without his mate, but I don't care where he goes, I just need Sienna back. “Sienna is innocent in all of this. I can't—and won't – let her pay the price for our past mistakes.”
I stand before the Council, my body trembling with anxiety as I plead for their cooperation. The weight of Sienna's life hangs heavily on my shoulders, and I can feel the seconds slipping away like sand through my fingers.
“Please,” I beg, my voice barely a whisper, “we must set Anita free. It's the only way to ensure Sienna's safety.” The Council members exchange uneasy glances, clearly hesitant to comply with such a dangerous request. But my desperation is palpable, and I know they can see that I will do anything – absolutely anything—to save my mate.
Murmurs pass through the room like summer winds. The Council members, draped in rich garments that denote their power, exchange glances. Their eyes, however, hold no secrets from me—uncertainty, hesitation, reluctance.
The head Councilor, a man with a demeanor as cold and imposing as the marble pillars of the chamber, finally speaks. “We shall grant your request, Xandros. But remember, we do this hesitatingly.”
I let out a breath. "Thank you," I reply, relief flooding me. Still, there is the issue of Carina, we have yet to find her.
Outside, the sun casts its radiant glow on Anita as she steps onto a train, the Council’s covert team tailing her. But a gut-wrenching realization dawns upon me: Vin sees everything.
“No!” The word burst from my lips. “Call them off. If Vin notices even one officer tailing her, Sienna is as good as dead.”
Begrudgingly, the Council calls off their pursuit, allowing Anita to board a train and disappear into the night.
With every cell of my being, I pray that this would be enough to secure Sienna's release.
