Chapter 8 - Whispers of Rebellion

Weeks passed, and the northern kingdom of Frostpeak prepared for the grand coronation ceremony. For the first time in centuries, a human-born Lycan queen was set to take the throne, uniting the human trade cities and the wild northern packs under one banner.
But peace in the realm unsettled those who profited from chaos.
Deep in the southern borderlands, remnants of Lord Sterling’s mercenary network and corrupt human nobles who resented Lycan rule gathered in secret. They whispered of a coup. They claimed a human queen made the Alpha King weak.
In her royal chambers, Giselle studied ancient scrolls detailing the history of the Frostfang bloodline. She traced the silver ink with her finger, learning the ancient spells and laws of her ancestors.
The heavy oak doors opened quietly, and Stellan stepped in, shedding his heavy winter cloak. He walked up behind her, wrapping his warm arms around her waist and resting his chin on her shoulder.
"You've been working for hours," Stellan murmured, kissing the nape of her neck. "The northern council meetings can wait, my queen."
Giselle leaned back against his solid chest, a soft smile touching her lips. "I’m just making sure I’m ready, Stellan. Rumors are spreading in the south. They say a human cannot sit on the Frostpeak throne."
Stellan’s eyes flashed with a dangerous, golden light. His grip tightened protectively around her. "Let them talk. Anyone who raises a hand against you will answer to my entire pack. You are my mate, Giselle. My equal. Let them try to take you."
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Suddenly, a loud explosion rocked the outer courtyard. Glass shattered in the high arched windows, and the distant sound of battle horns echoed through the freezing air.
Stellan’s expression darkened instantly. His wolf surged to the surface. "They didn't wait."