Alpha Darius' POV
The western ridge stretched before us, rolling hills covered in thick forest. From this vantage point, I could see why it had been contested territory for generations. The hunting grounds were rich, the defensive positions strong, the resources abundant.
Xander, my beta, stood beside me, surveying the land that was about to slip from our control.
"It's a shame to lose it," he said, breaking the silence. "Our pack has held this ridge for three Alpha generations."
"Have we?" I asked, my tone casual.
He glanced at me, confused. "Of course, Alpha. Your grandfather claimed it from the rogue packs that used to roam here. Your father defended it against four different challengers. And you've kept it safe until now."
"Until now," I repeated, watching a hawk circle overhead.
