20

Trying to articulate my scattered thoughts in front of my friend caused me to slip up. I cleared my throat, trying to smother the doubt that briefly flared to life deep within me. This was for pride, I assured myself, and for justice. My wolf growled in accordance. He, too, wanted his birthright—the land, the resources. At least my wolf understood me, even if I sometimes stumbled.

I turned to Dom again. “Let’s go over our plan again, and I want this communicated to each of our fighters.”

Dom nodded. “Of course.”

“Tomorrow, during the challenge ceremony, we’ll go in from the back and sides of the compound, but we’ll stay hidden. When no challengers appear, I’ll show up at the last second. I just need you and the rest to get me inside without issue.”

“At the last second, huh? Look at you. I never thought you’d be one for theatrics, Night.”

I chuckled. “I just want to make a good impression.”

Dom grinned. “I’ll let them know.” He slipped into the darkness, as quiet as a shadow. Moments l