LYDIA'S POV

　　The moment for which I have waited for so long is now here. Finally, with the support of the nobles and everyone else, I was ready to claim the throne but before that, I decided to arrange a banquet for everyone. It was a banquet that the kingdom had never seen in history.

　　The grand hall was a sight to behold. Golden chandeliers cast a warm glow across the room, illuminating the faces of the guests who had come from far and wide to attend the banquet. The tables were laden with an array of sumptuous dishes, each more delectable than the last, and the air was filled with the sound of laughter and conversation. It was a celebration of unity and triumph, a momentous occasion that marked a new chapter in our kingdom's history.

　　As I walked through the hall, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride. The West River Pack and the South Guard Pack had come together in a display of solidarity and strength, and their members mingled with ease. Everywhere I looked, people were smiling and toasting to our success. It was a far cry from the tension and uncertainty that had plagued us in the past.

　　"Lydia, you've outdone yourself," Brandon said, coming up beside me with a grin. "This banquet is incredible."

　　"Thank you, Brandon," I replied, returning his smile. "But it's not just my doing. We all worked hard to make this happen."

　　Evan joined us, a glass of wine in his hand. "It's true. But you're the one who brought us all together, Lydia. You deserve the credit."

　　I blushed slightly at their praise. "I couldn't have done it without all of you. This is a victory we all share."

　　As we continued to chat, I couldn't help but notice the admiration in the eyes of those around us. People from both packs approached to offer their congratulations and express their gratitude. It was heartening to see the unity and respect that had blossomed from our shared struggles and triumphs.

　　"Lydia, your leadership has been nothing short of inspiring," said Isadora, a respected elder from the South Guard Pack. "You've given us hope and strength."

　　"I'm honoured by your words, Elder Isadora," I said sincerely. "But there's still much work to be done. We must continue to stand together and support one another."

　　The elder nodded. "And we will. You have our unwavering support. I have a few strategies that I would like to discuss with you but, tonight is your night you deserve this celebration so we can discuss it later."

　　"Sure, I more than ready to work with you." I replied enthusiastically.

　　As I made my way through the crowd, I caught snippets of conversations praising our accomplishments. It was clear that our efforts had not gone unnoticed, and the sense of camaraderie and optimism was palpable.

　　Just as I was beginning to feel a sense of true relaxation, a sudden hush fell over the room. I turned to see what had caused the shift in the atmosphere, and my heart skipped a beat. The members of the North Light Pack had arrived, their presence immediately altering the mood of the banquet.

　　How did they even enter? They were not invited and even though I was now ready to face Alpha Cameron but I didn't want to, at least not now.

　　Alpha Cameron, strode into the hall with an air of confidence and authority as if he owned this place. His pack members followed closely behind, their expressions a mix of curiosity and wariness. The tension in the room was palpable, and I could see the uneasy glances being exchanged.

　　"What are they doing here?" Brandon muttered, his expression darkening.

　　"I don't know," I replied, trying to keep my voice steady. "But we need to handle this carefully. We can't kick them out."

　　I stepped forward to greet Alpha Cameron, my heart pounding in my chest. "Alpha Cameron, welcome to our banquet. We weren't expecting your arrival." I tried my best to keep my tone even.

　　"Lydia," he said, his voice smooth and commanding. "I heard about your recent conquests and thought it fitting to come and see the woman who has managed to unite two packs."

　　His words were polite, but there was an edge to them that put me on guard. "We appreciate your presence, Alpha Cameron. Please, join us and celebrate our unity."

　　He raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued by my response. "Indeed. Unity is a rare and valuable thing. But I wonder, how long will it last?"

　　I forced a smile, determined not to let him rattle me. "What is that supposed to mean?" I asked, my voice steady but with a slight edge.

　　Alpha Cameron looked past me, his gaze fixing on someone in the crowd. "Perhaps I should let someone else explain."

　　The crowd parted, and a tall, imposing man stepped forward. It was his right hand man, beta of the North Light Pack. He was known for his cunning and manipulative nature, and seeing him here made my blood run cold.

　　"Lydia," Severon said with a smirk. "It's been a long time."

　　"Not long enough," I muttered under my breath, but loud enough for him to hear.

　　He chuckled. "I see you haven't changed. Still as fiery as ever. But tonight isn't about old grudges. It's about the truth."

　　"What truth?" I asked, my patience wearing thin.