Chapter 19 – The Alpha’s Trial
The morning after the Council’s verdict arrived with the bite of winter air, sharp and merciless. Elena woke to the sound of the pack training grounds alive with growls, grunts, and the clash of claws against stone.
Damien hadn’t given her a choice. At dawn, you train. His words echoed from the night before, leaving no room for argument.
As she dressed in a simple tunic and boots, her stomach churned. The Council had given her a conditional chance to stay, but it was a chance wrapped in thorns. If she faltered, if she let Lucian’s whispers guide her even once, she’d be cut down.
When she stepped outside, the cold mist stung her cheeks, and the scent of pine and blood—always lingering after battles—filled her lungs. The training grounds spread wide beneath
