Chapter 0422

The moment our cars rolled to a stop, Vivian stood waiting with my half-brother cradled against her chest. A fading bruise marred her cheekbone—a sight I knew too well. My father's signature.

I approached cautiously, scanning the empty grounds. Where was the pack? Where were the warriors meant to intimidate us?

"Luna." I kept my voice soft. "I don't believe we were properly introduced last time."

"Vivian." Her fingers tightened around the sleeping toddler. "I renounced my title after... recent events."

A gentle touch on her arm. "Are you safe?"

Tears glistened in her eyes as she whispered, "I swear I didn't know what he was."

"I believe you." My gesture summoned Victor forward. "Our offer still stands. The Obsidian Moon Pack will shelter you."

Victor's voice carried quiet authority. "You'll have our full protection."

I studied the child's peaceful face. "What's his name?"

"Julian." Her smile flickered like candlelight before dying. "They're all waiting out back. Be warned—he's not fighting fair today."

I nodded toward Magnus. "We brought insurance."

Her gasp told me she recognized the elder.

The packhouse exterior lied. Inside looked like a tornado had torn through it—shattered furniture, splintered doorframes, walls gouged with claw marks.

"Alpha Edgar... hasn't been himself since your last meeting." Vivian led us through the wreckage toward the backyard.

The entire pack stood in tense silence, forming a hollow circle. The air tasted metallic with fear.

"Finally." My father's voice dripped venom as I stepped into the clearing. He swung twin swords with erratic fury, his pupils blown wide. Madness had claimed him—whether from my survival or his mate's rejection, I couldn't tell.

Victor flanked my right, Magnus my left. The elder's voice boomed. "Weapons nullify a challenge's legitimacy, Alpha Edgar. Shift or fight human—your choice."

My father's snarl twisted his face. "You brought a babysitter."

"I know how you cheat." My gaze swept over the malnourished pack members. Their sunken eyes widened at my appearance—proof my father had lied about my fate.

Dust swirled as I stepped forward. "By bloodright, I challenge you for leadership of Silverbrook Pack."

I wore only workout gear, barefoot for quick shifting. My father had armored himself like a human knight—a fatal miscalculation.

The first rush came predictably. His padded clothing hindered his swing. My counterpunch sent him sprawling.

"Bitch!" He tore off layers, spittle flying. "Just like your whore mother!"

My uppercut snapped his head back. "The only disgrace here is you."

His next attack was all animal rage—wide eyes, frothing mouth. When his leg sweep failed, my kick connected with his temple.

Blood sprayed as he spat out a broken tooth. "Mine!" He lunged again—then cold steel pierced my abdomen.

Victor's roar shook the trees.

I gripped my father's wrist, yanking him closer. "Silver can't kill a Guardian." My free hand plunged into his chest. Aurora's claws flexed around his pounding heart.

His gasp mirrored my mother's final breath.

"Feel that?" I whispered as his life pulsed in my palm. "This is how she felt every day."

The rip echoed through the silent clearing. His body collapsed like a marionette with cut strings.