#Chapter 172: By Royal Decree

I’m not sure how I knew that I’d be able to stop Caleb from hurting anyone just with a simple touch, but in this moment, I suppose I’m not really thinking at all. I just don’t want Caleb to lose himself again. The Alpha Council is already on the brink of falling apart. If Caleb hurts someone, even if they made a crude comment and deserve reprimand, convincing them to bring their armies to Caleb’s cause would only be more difficult. Maybe Caleb knows that. Perhaps my touch offered him just enough comfort to relax and think of the consequences of any harsh action here. Caleb glances at me, and through his eyes, I can see him slowly returning to himself, the red ebbing away from his irises. He doesn’t say thank you, but I can tell with the gentle softening of his gaze that he is grateful. After a moment, I let my hand fall away. Caleb looks back to his advisors and Council, continuing as if nothing happened. “While I could force you to act, for now, I choose not to,” Caleb say