Chapter Eighty-six

Author's POV

The pack members were all disappointed at Alpha Derek’s judgment in sparing Sarah’s life.

Even aside that, the idea of a murderer and outcast—not even a werewolf like them—becoming their future Luna didn’t sit well with anyone.

But no one dared speak up, not even the fiercest and the elders among them.

They knew challenging the Alpha’s word was courting death.

Before leaving the square, Alpha Derek’s sharp voice tore through the uneasy murmurs.

“Anyone who disagrees with my decision,” he said, turning in a slow arc, "should step forward and say that to my face.”

But not one soul moved.

Even Axel, whose clenched fists betrayed his disagreement, didn’t dare to step forward.

Moments later, when the crowd began to disperse, Axel, wrestling with confusion and frustration, raced after his father.

His boots crunched over the gravel path leading into the dense woods behind the square.

“Father!” Axel called, breathless, his voice echoing faintly between the trees.

"Wait!”

Al