Chapter 20: The Alpha's Test

Lyra's POV

The great hall buzzes with anticipation as pack members file in, whispers and speculative glances flying like arrows. I slump in my seat, trying to make myself as small as possible. After the events of the past few days – the mysterious photograph, the overheard conversation about my parentage, the cryptic messages – I want nothing more than to disappear.

But there's no escaping the weight of expectation hanging heavily in the air. Alpha Blackthorn stands at the front of the room, his imposing presence commanding silence as he raises his hands.

"Thank you all for gathering on such short notice," he begins, his deep voice resonating through the hall. "As you know, our pack is entering a time of transition. My son, Xander, will soon take on the mantle of Alpha. And with that comes the need for a strong, capable Luna by his side."

My stomach churns as I catch Elara preening in the front row, already sure of her victory. Standing beside his father, Xander keeps his expression ca