Challenges for the throne were a tradition, but the war had changed the realm. Now, power wasn't a prize to be won; it was a fortress to be held.
For Alpha Zephyr, he was that fortress. For ten years, from cubhood to adulthood, he had grown into his throne, becoming the very embodiment of his rule.
And yet, here he was, about to face a challenge from his stepbrother.
"I know you'll be alright," Zeeb said with a firm nod, trying to reassure himself as much as his Alpha.
The Alpha, his beta, and gamma were huddled together, waiting for midnight when the challenge would begin.
Zephyr was ready—more than ready. He saw this not as a contest but as an obstacle to be cleared before he could get back to his real work. He wanted it over as quickly as possible.
