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Chapter 6: The Alpha from the East
The scent of foreign wolves filled the edge of the territory before the scouts even made it back with word. Nigel caught it immediately—sharp, clean, and unfamiliar. It set his instincts on edge.
Visitors weren't uncommon. But this? This was different.
By the time he reached the central clearing, a crowd had already gathered. Warriors stood alert, tense. And in the center of it all, beside Aria, stood a man Nigel had never seen before.
He was tall, his posture confident but not arrogant. His long, dark coat swept behind him like a banner, and his presence alone demanded attention. He wasn't just anyone.
He was Alpha Kael of the Dawnfang Clan.
"I've heard much about your leadership, Aria," Kael said, his voice smooth like polished stone. "And your strength. Few alphas your age could have reclaimed control of a fractured pack so quickly."
Aria nodded coolly, but didn't smile. "I do what I must to protect my people."
"And I admire that," Kael replied, his gaze lingering just a second too long. "Your people are fortunate to have you."
Nigel stepped forward without thinking. "Funny. I don't remember anyone asking for the Dawnfangs' opinion."
The attention in the clearing shifted. Kael turned to him, his expression unreadable. "And you are?"
"Nigel," Aria answered before Nigel could speak. Her tone was neutral. "He was once part of this pack."
Was.
The word burned. More than it should have.
Kael raised an eyebrow. "I see."
Nigel could see it in his eyes—the calculation. Kael had already taken Nigel's measure, and dismissed him.
"We're allies," Kael said, addressing Aria again. "Our clans have long kept peace. But alliances can grow stronger, don't you think?"
Aria gave him a steady look. "That depends on the terms."
Kael's smile was subtle, dangerous. "I have many terms I'd be willing to offer. Some political. Some… personal."
Nigel's jaw clenched.
Was this happening?
Was this man really trying to court her, right in front of him?
He took a step closer. "Aria, can we talk?"
She looked at him, expression unreadable. "Not now, Nigel. We have guests."
It felt like a slap.
She turned back to Kael. "You're welcome to stay for the next moon cycle. We have room at the old lodge."
Kael nodded. "I appreciate your hospitality."
As the crowd dispersed and Kael followed the guards toward the guest quarters, Nigel stayed rooted in place, heart pounding.
This was worse than he thought. Aria wasn't just leading now—she was desired. Respected. Powerful.
And Kael wasn't just competition.
He was a real threat.
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End of Chapter 6
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