Chapter 34: Rising Tensions 

Xander's POV

The packed house, once a symbol of our strength and unity, now stands as a crumbling testament to the chaos that has engulfed us. I stand at the makeshift podium, facing a sea of anxious and angry faces. The air crackles with tension, whispers, and accusatory glances flying like arrows.

"Alpha Xander," Elder Thorne's gravelly voice cuts through the murmurs. We must address the Luna situation. Elara's performance during the crisis has raised concerns."

Elara stiffens beside me, her perfectly manicured nails digging into my arm. "Performance?" she hisses, low enough for only me to hear. "I was attacked!"

I struggle to keep my expression neutral, the memory of her torn clothes and bloodied cheek warring with the nagging suspicion in my gut. Something about that attack didn't sit right, but I can't understand why.

"Elara has been through a traumatic experience," I begin, choosing my words carefully. "We shouldn't rush to"

"With all due respect, Alpha," another voice interrupt