Episode 53

Siena

As soon as I step outside, I see everyone from the pack gathered in a heated discussion. The cool afternoon breeze blows through my hair, and I turn my gaze to Dylan, who seems visibly agitated.

"What's going on here, Dylan? What's all this commotion?" I ask, trying to understand the situation.

He runs a hand nervously through his hair and, looking me in the eye, replies:

"It's the wolves. They want to challenge the alpha to a fight."

My eyes widen in shock. Without hesitation, I look at everyone present and exclaim:

"Are you crazy!? Your alpha is injured…"

However, one of the wolves steps forward and interrupts me, saying:

"This is tradition. Beta Dylan knows this as well as we do. As he refuses to fight for the alpha position, we will assume that responsibility. We will fight for our ascension."

I look at Dylan in alarm, but it is Alariel, who is beside me, who whispers:

"This is serious, Siena. They seem to take these traditions very seriously."

Dylan steps closer, trying to be heard over the commotion. He explains, with a grave expression:

"It's an ancient tradition. When our alpha shows weakness, the strongest members of the pack have the right to challenge and try to take over the leadership. It is a ritual that dates back to the beginnings of our species, to ensure that the leader is the strongest and most capable."

With uneven breath, I look at the commotion, then turn my gaze to Dylan and Alariel in front of me and say:

"But Derek won't be able to fight. It's impossible, he's bedridden. The wound could reopen."

Dylan shakes his head, the expression on his face a mixture of frustration and despair, while he fixes his gaze on me, says:

"I know, but they won't give up. They believe that the alpha's weakness is an opportunity to demonstrate their strength. If Derek doesn't fight, they'll force a fight amongst themselves until someone takes over."