Hidden Secrets (editing and improving the story)

Chapter 22 - Counselor's intervention

Richard's pov:

"Bartholomew, I've sent you a picture of our guest. Check your emails," I said, barely hiding my self-satisfaction.

"Already saw them. Nice work," he replied, his tone approving.

"I know," I said proudly. "So, what's the next step?"

"We'll keep 'taking care' of him for as long as he stays," Bartholomew said sarcastically. "Can't have him thinking we're anything less than hospitable."

"Isn't that risky?" I asked, unease creeping in.

"Stop being such a baby. Just do as I say."

"Alright, alright..." I sighed, defeated.

"And keep me updated," he ordered.

"Yes, yes," I muttered, hanging up.

I summoned two guards. "Back to work," I ordered, nodding toward the dungeons.

I was busy with paperwork when Andrew, my Beta, appeared. "Military Adviser from the Council is here," he said quietly.

Great. Just what I didn't want.

As Andrew left, the door opened and the Adviser strode in.

"Alpha Richard," he greeted formally.

"Counselor, what a pleasant surprise! Glad to see you again," I said, forcing a calm smile.

"This isn't a social call, Alpha. I'm here about Alexander of the Silver Dawn Pack. I want to see him and get a full report."

"Of course, of course," I said smoothly. "But first, please, have something to drink. You must be tired."

"No time for that," he cut me off sternly. "I want to see the prisoner immediately."

"What's the rush? He's locked in the dungeons, not going anywhere," I joked, though his icy glare shut down my humor fast.

"I have a crucial meeting this afternoon. I need to report this matter to my superior. Time is short," he said arrogantly.

"Understood," I stammered.

"Shall we?" he asked, moving toward the door.

I mind-linked Andrew to burst in with urgent news about a rogue attack, hoping to stall for time. If the Counselor saw Alexander's battered state, I'd be in deep trouble.

Just as I started to follow him out, Andrew suddenly rushed into the room...

"What's going on, Beta?" I asked, trying to sound annoyed.

"Alpha, sorry to interrupt, but there's something urgent you need to know."

"Can't you see I'm in the middle of something?" I snapped.

"Alpha, there was a rogue attack half an hour ago at our northern border."

"What? Any casualties?" I asked, feigning surprise.

"Two guards were killed. Four others injured—they're being taken to the hospital now," Andrew replied firmly.

"Any structural damage?"

"Luckily, nothing significant."

"I want a full damage report immediately. I'm going down to inspect the border myself."

"Yes, Sir."

Turning to the Counselor, I said, "Sorry, Counselor, I have to attend to this."

"I understand," he nodded.