Lucas's voice quivered with disbelief as he questioned his father's decision, his eyes pleading for an alternative. "Father, I understand the need for a tie breaker, but must it be a fight to the death? Isn't there any other way we can determine a victor?"

Alpha Damien's gaze met Lucas's, a mix of sympathy and resolve etched on his face. He paused for a moment, considering his son's words, before he responded with a heavy sigh.

"Lucas, my son, I have considered every possible option for a fair ...