rather than many, the Alpha of all, today, all of the packs meet, and the other Alphas have the option to challenge Roman to the right of the position.
They’re here on the Lycan compound, and I’m hiding in the forest on the outskirts, only able to see and hear thanks to my gifts as a Hunter. I’m trapped in Roman’s clothing to mask my scent, to disguise my presence. But there was no way I was going to not be here. Especially when there’s a chance he could fall. I have every faith in him, he’s the strongest of any Lycan I’ve come across, but there are other Alpha’s here I’ve not met. Older, more experienced Alpha’s who have fought longer, who might not be happy with the power they currently hold.
A huge feast is laid out, the Knight family at the head table, his mother and father look so happy, so in love. Roman, their only child, looks like a perfect blend of them both. His father’s build and eyes, silver even in human form, but his mother’s wild dark hair.
He looks like a Prince, sat before his people, ready to take on the responsibility of becoming King.
They’ve been out here hours, but I do not mind that I cannot be a part of it, much as Roman wanted me by his side, I know his people are not ready yet, not with the history and discord between our factions. No matter what my own feelings on the matter are, I will not ruin this for him. He’s waited a very long time to rise.
I watch silently as the feast finishes and his father rises, the loud voices quieting at the sight. “I want to thank you all for travelling the long days to return here, to our sacred lands, our original home, on this day of great importance. The day that I step down as the Alpha of Alphas, and hand the mantle, the responsibility, the pleasure, down to my son, Roman.
I have looked over our people with pride, and I am honored to have ruled unchallenged for so long, but it is time. I grow in years, and the fading calls to me and my mate. So before we make the decision to take the step into the afterworld, I wanted to make sure my son is steady in his reign.” He lifts his hand, and cuts the palm of it with the talon of his other.
“With the spilling of my blood, my reign ends.” Roman stands beside him and cuts his own palm.
“With the spilling of my blood, my reign begins. Do any wish to challenge for the place at this table?”
Each of the Alphas of the packs stand.
“I accept you as my Alpha, Roman Knight.” The first, Thorn, I think his name was, says and places his closed fist over his chest.
This continues for six of the Alphas, but then it comes to the final two, the first falters, hesitates, but reluctantly accepts Roman. The last though, his worlds make my blood turn to ice in my veins.
“I, Dante, of the Wind Winder Pack, challenge you, for the title of Alpha of Alphas.” It is as if the entire pack holds their breath at his words, and the fury that ripples from Roman’s father reaches me all the way out here.
“Accepted.” Roman nods, and I can’t sit still. The packs stand and move closer to where I am, to the open space, rather than crammed with tables, and form a circle. I can barely see from my position, so I climb. I pick the tallest tree I can find with low branches, and climb as quickly and quietly as I can, while the packs arrange themselves for the battle to come. The air is charged with anticipation, fear, and sheer power. The sting of the earth magic coming from the moment is enough to make the hair on my arms stand up.
Whispers carry through the air to me, even easier to pick up with my Hunter hearing now that they are closer. Whispers of betrayal about Dante, how it had already been discussed, and none had spoken of a challenge. Even his own pack look shocked.
The circle settles, and Roman’s father stands when the others sit, leaving just the three of them standing.
“The challenge for position of Alpha of Alphas has been accepted. To the death, as is our way.” His voice rings out, clear and precise, despite the obvious conflict he feels about what