Chapter 75 The Challenge

• The ceremonial grounds were a clearing at the settlement’s heart. Flat stone worn smooth by generations of wolves who’d fought here, bled here, died here. Torches lined the edges, their light flickering against the gathering dark.
• The pack had assembled. Every wolf who could walk was there, forming a ring around the stone. Silent. Watching. Their faces showed fear and hope in equal measure.
• Damon was already waiting in the center. He’d stripped to the waist, his skin pale in the torchlight, old scars visible across his chest and arms. He looked relaxed. Confident. Like this was already over.