Chapter 49: King vs. King

RETH

Ordering the others to stay several spans behind him, Reth circled around until he'd be downwind of the Silent One. Almost immediately, the lion began to huff, the calls resonating in his massive, barrel chest and echoing off the trees. Reth didn't call back, didn't entertain the challenge, just let himself feel his position, his dominance, and his desire for his mate.

The male would scent the certainty of his position, and though he was unlikely to simply walk away—the scent of the females was strong here—he would be wary, feeling Reth's power and strength before they met.

Surprisingly, the male didn't move towards him. The calls didn't come closer any faster than Reth's confident pace toward it. Reth frowned. Any male who challenged dominance should automatically approach. Why did this one stay where he was?

The hair on the back of his neck standing up, Reth stalked toward the clearing, now making his own growls of dominance.