Natalie's POV
I stared at the two Alphas standing before me. They were not moving. Not speaking. Not breathing as far as I could tell. Just standing there waiting for something. For me. Their eyes were empty. Hollow. Like someone had scooped out everything that made them human and left only shells behind.
"This is not real," I said. My voice sounded small in the vast throne room. "None of this is real."
The ancient voice replied and it seemed to come from everywhere at once. "Does it matter? In this trial, your heart will betray you. You must prove your will is stronger than your emotions. Stronger than your bonds. Stronger than everything you think you need."
A blade appeared in my hand. I did not summon it. Did not reach for it. It was just suddenly there. Silver and gleaming and imp
