Lucien's POV
The Alpha's study felt like a tomb.
Father sat behind his desk. Vivia stood beside him. Smiling.
That smile made my skin crawl.
"Lucien." Father gestured to the chair. "Sit."
I remained standing. "What's this about?"
"The rogue situation has escalated." He leaned back. "They've been attacking our southern border. Killing our scouts."
"I'm aware."
"We need to respond." He looked at Vivia. Then back at me. "With force."
"Send the warriors."
"We're sending you." Vivia's voice was sweet. Poisonous. "To lead them."
My stomach dropped.
"What?"
"You heard her." Father stood. "You'll lead a strike team. Twenty warriors. Take out the rogue camp."
"Why me?"
"Because you're my son. My heir." He moved around the desk. "This is your responsibi
