57

57

JANET

FLASHBACK

I was only twelve when my father sent me away, far from the Rivers clan’s lands. It was the day I learned that my destiny had been decided long before I even understood what it meant to rule. My father stood tall and resolute, his broad shoulders framed by the burning torches of our ancient hall, as he told me that I was to become the future alpha of the Rivers clan. His voice, deep and commanding, echoed in my ears for years after.

“You are the chosen one, Janet. You will lead the clan when my time comes.”

His words were meant to inspire pride, but all I felt was the weight of responsibility crushing down on me. I was sent to a distant part of our realm, a place far removed from the lands I called home. It was a barren and unforgiving place, the kind of place where you either learned to be strong or were swallowed whole by its harshness.

I was trained there—mentally, physically, emotionally. Every day was a test, a challenge to prove I was worthy of my birthright.