Adeline POV
“Zale Seoh! I challenge you! Your life or mine as stated in the ancient ways!”
My heart stopped. We had come so close and now Yeal had uttered the ancient rite. I glanced at Zale and the wheels turning in his head, I knew what his answer would be.
“Zale, don’t do it! We’ve already won and he knows it. He’s just trying to save his own skin. Just refuse,” I pleaded with him.
Yeal laughed maniacally.
“Oh, the great Alpha of the Carmine pack would never in a million years refuse a direct challenge. Sure he is within his right to refuse but we can all see what he is thinking.”
“He’s right, Addie,” Zale looked at me with sadness,” In modern law, there are no legal repercussions for refusing a challenge. However, it would be an insult to the ancient law of the Moons to do so. If I declined I would have no moral right to lead anyone or call myself Alpha. It is my duty to accept his challenge.”
I watched in horror as Zale got down from the stage and made his way to Yeal.
