Her expression shifts from anger to something worse—disappointment. “You've already lost what matters most,” she says softly. “No contest can change that.”She turns away before I can respond, moving toward Zion, who waits near the hall's entrance.Their brief exchange—no touch, just words—sends fre
(Raiden POV) My reflection in the glass shows a stranger—hollow eyes, tension etched into every line of my face.The ceremonial challenge token weighs heavy in my palm, its black stone surface cool despite hours of being held.I've made my decision.The ancient laws still exist, buried in our oldes
***When I enter, the Great Hall hums with subdued conversation. Council members are gathered around the ancient oak table, which has witnessed generations of pack decisions, from territory expansion to war declarations to peace treaties that shaped current boundaries.Massive timber beams arch over
(Raiden POV)The first rays of dawn filter through the windows of the Alpha quarters, painting my sparse chambers in hues of gold and amber that remind me painfully of Siena's eyes.I haven't slept.Again.The tangled sheets bear witness to hours of restless tossing as strategies formed and collapse
I turn to face him fully, finding courage in the gathering darkness that somehow makes vulnerability easier.“I want a connection that strengthens rather than constrains. Partnership without possession. Trust earned through actions rather than assumed through ceremony.”My wolf surges forward at the
(Siena POV)The evening air wraps around me like a cool blanket as I sit on the settlement's eastern overlook, watching the sun's last rays paint the valley below in shades of amber and gold.My fingers trace the rough texture of the wooden bench beneath me, weathered by seasons of rain and sun. Lik
His eyes find mine across the distance, the challenge in them clear.I don't look away.If he wants a fight, well then, I will give him one.Conversation dies away as I approach the speaking stone—an ancient granite boulder worn smooth by generations of pack leaders who have stood upon it to address
(Siena POV)The scent of fresh pine from the forest beyond my window mingles with the lingering aroma of herbal tea gone cold in a forgotten mug. My eyes burn from lack of sleep, but my mind refuses to rest, spinning endlessly over the revelations of the past two days.I press my fingertips against
“Did it give you satisfaction to destroy this, too?”“The pack deserved to know the truth about someone wielding significant influence over our policies,” I reply, keeping my voice even despite the storm of emotions churning beneath the surface.Siena raises her head finally, amber eyes locking with