Chapter 72: Chapter Seventy-two

Lord Roderick sat at the head of the long, mahogany table, his posture regal, his demeanor commanding. The parchment in his hand bore the seal of Ethan, the alpha of the Crescent moon pack, an alpha he had long considered little more than an annoyance. With a flick of his wrist, he unfurled the letter and began to read aloud, his voice carrying across the grand chamber. The council members flanked him on both sides, their faces twisted in expressions of surprise and mockery.

"To Lord Roderick, leader of the council and the fire-blooded," Lord Roderick began, his tone laced with sarcasm. "I, Ethan, alpha of the Crescent Moon, hereby challenge you to a duel."

A murmur of disbelief rippled through the council chamber as Lord Roderick read aloud Ethan's bold proposal. They exchanged glances, stifling chuckles.