Page 36

Cassandra’s POV

The training grounds had transformed overnight. Banners of different packs lined the perimeter, warriors gathered in tight groups, whispering about today’s trials.

But none of them whispered as much as they did when I walked onto the field.

Because they saw it.

The mark on my neck.

Alec’s claim. My claim.

And whether they liked it or not, it was undeniable proof that I was their Luna.

Jack whistled low beside me. “Well, well, well. Look at them stare. If I didn’t know any better, I’d say they’re shocked our Luna actually belongs here.”

I rolled my shoulders, exhaling slowly. “Let them watch.”

Jack grinned. “Oh, I plan to. This is gonna be fun.”

But just as I was about to turn my attention to the first trial, a slow, mocking clap echoed across the field.

I tensed.

The crowd parted, revealing a figure I was already learning to despise.

Elias.

The Alpha of Blackwood Pack strolled toward me with that same arrogant smirk, his green eyes flicking over my form before settling on the mark at my throat.

He laughed.

“Well, isn’t this something?” Elias drawled. “The little Luna already claimed her pet King.”

Jack bristled beside me. “Watch your mouth, Elias.”

Elias didn’t even look at Jack. His gaze remained on me, sharp and amused. “Tell me, Luna,” he continued, tilting his head. “Did you mark him first because you were scared he’d change his mind?”

A slow, dangerous heat burned in my chest.

I smiled. Sharp. Cold. Lethal.

“No,” I said sweetly. “I did it because I wanted to. Just like I’ll want to put you on the ground during the trials.”

The warriors surrounding us murmured, some snickering under their breath.

Elias’s smirk twitched, but he covered it quickly. “Big words for someone who hasn’t proven anything yet.”

I took a step forward, meeting him head-on. “I don’t need to prove anything to you, Elias. But if you want to fight me so badly, step into the ring.”

His eyes gleamed. “Oh, I plan to.”

A deep voice cut through the tension.

“Not yet.”

I turned to find Alec standing nearby, his silver gaze unreadable. But there was something simmering beneath the surface—something dangerous.

He walked toward us, completely calm, but every warrior around us straightened instinctively.

He stopped beside me, his presence a wall of heat against my back.

His fingers brushed my waist. Casual. Possessive. Unshakable.

“If you want to challenge her, Elias,” Alec said smoothly, “you’ll have to earn that fight.”

Elias raised a brow. “Is that so?”

Alec smirked. “You’ll be facing her in the combat round. Try not to embarrass yourself before then.”

Elias chuckled, shaking his head. “You two are so fun. Really. Can’t wait for this.”

And with that, he turned and strolled off.

I exhaled sharply. “I hate him.”

Jack nodded. “We all hate him.”

Alec hummed, his hand still at my waist. “Then crush him when the time comes.”

I looked up at him, meeting his gaze. “You sure you’re okay with me fighting him?”

Alec’s lips curled. “Oh, I want you to fight him.” His silver eyes flickered with heat. “I want you to win.”

I smirked. “Then watch closely, Your Highness. Because I don’t lose.”

The announcer stepped forward. “Luna Cassandra, are you ready for the first trial?”

I rolled my shoulders, letting the adrenaline settle into my veins.

Time to show them who I am.

I glanced once more at Alec, then turned to the arena.

“Let’s begin.”