"On what grounds are you demanding a review?" My voice cut through the noise. "On what grounds are you demanding Elder Duskthorn step down?"
"Based on nothing but your baseless accusations? Do you have any idea how much burden you'd be placing on the Academy servants?"
"You keep speaking of being some poor rogue who suffered hardship, but you don't hesitate to make life miserable for wolves who actually serve this institution."
"Yes, Elder Duskthorn is my mother's ally. But she hasn't done a single thing to shield me. If you want her removed, you'd better present actual evidence."
I could tolerate Darian slandering me—after all, it was nothing but speculation.
But dragging an innocent wolf like Elara into this? That was unforgivable.
Her bonded mate, Rowan Duskthorn, suffered from a failing wolf-heart. He survived only through constant healer rites and costly moonstone treatments.
She'd refused my mother's offer to help cover the healing costs, insisting she'd handle the thousands in monthly treatment fees herself.
That was why she treasured every position, every additional duty. She never complained. Never sought pity.
I wasn't about to let Darian destroy her.