~Third Person's POV

Dawn broke over the Nightshade Pack territory with an eerie stillness. The fighting grounds—a large circular arena surrounded by ancient stones—was packed with pack members, all gathered to witness the challenge that would determine their fate.

Darius stood on one side of the arena, bare-chested, his body marked with old scars from countless battles. Despite his age, he was still powerfully built, his muscles defined and ready. His steel-grey eyes were focused, calm, ...