Josiah
I stood tall, my shoulders squared beneath the weight of expectations. The training grounds of the Crimson Pack stretched out before me like a battlefield waiting for blood. I could feel the eyes of the five Elders on me, but the only gaze that mattered was Ryker’s, my mentor, my father in every way that counted. His expression was as hard and weathered as the mountains that bordered our land.
“Today, Josiah, we test your abilities,” Ryker said, his voice low but commanding. “An Alpha must not only lead by example,but he also must sacrifice, decide swiftly, and above all, protect his pack.”
I gave a single nod, jaw clenched. I had always known this day would come. Truth be told, I thought I had already passed all the tests they could throw at me, but with the Elders, the rules ch
