The Alpha's Cinderella

Chapter 74

Damon

The Trial of the Moon, an ancient rite, held the promise of revelation through a fight to the death among wolves. It was an old way to settle disputes between high-ranking wolves, and the last of its kind was done almost 300 years ago.

Romin, with a scoff, ridiculed the gravity of the tradition.

“The Trial of the Moon? You want to settle this matter through that ancient tradition?” he mocked, his laughter echoing through the stillness.

Erik, a former Delta, stood unwavering in his defense. “Why not? If that is the only way for your treachery to be discovered. Under this trial, the moon goddess will surely favor that one that is telling the truth. And I am confident that after this, Damon will emerge victorious.”

Romin's amusement soured, replaced by impatience. “Joke time’s over. Time to end this madness.” He signaled his men to attack, plunging the surroundings into an imminent clash.

As the tension in the moonlit clearing peaked, my group materialized like shadows against impending violence. I stepped forward, my demeanor calm yet resolute.

“Is fighting really necessary?” I questioned, my words a measured plea, hanging in the air like a silent command. "If you are truly innocent, let the moon goddess judge you. She'd surely let you win, unless… you're a werewolf who didn't believe in her power."

The crowd erupted into chaos. In our society, disbelief in the moon goddess was the gravest sin, especially for an alpha. Their fervent devotion to the deity shaped every aspect of our lives. It was the one sin that the pack could impeach or punish an Alpha for, a transgression against the very essence of our existence.

The moonlit clearing pulsed with tension as Romin, wearing that infuriating smirk, ignored the blame confidently, saying he's loyal to the moon goddess. I gave him a tight look, my doubt lingering in the air like a quiet question.

Suddenly, a bold and sure voice broke through the tense situation from the group of people.

"If you truly trust her, let her determine if you're innocent. Battle Lord Damon in the Trial of the Moon!"

The rallying cry spread like wildfire, the crowd chanting in unison, their fervor echoing through the trees.

"Trial of the Moon!”

“Trial of the Moon!"

The people got quiet, waiting eagerly, unsure of what to believe. The moon, saying nothing, shone its magical light on the unfolding event. Romin's smile disappeared, the crowd's excitement grew louder.

Finally, Romin gave up. “Fine! I will let the moon goddess judge me and my ungrateful son. I will fight Damon under the Trial of the Moon. Only this time, it will be a fight to the death.”

“And I wholeheartedly accept,” I declared with determination. “After the fight, only one person will keep his life and I will let the moon goddess decide who will it be.”

The crowd cheered as they expressed their support. Ex-Delta Erik took charge, moving ahead, and his words cut through the tense moment.

"In three days, the next full moon will arrive. That's when the Trial of the Moon will take place."

The crowd, now a mixture of nervousness and excitement, burst into cheers, the atmosphere charged with anticipation. Three days remained, a countdown to a confrontation that would decide innocence or guilt. The crowd dispersed, leaving behind an air thick with suspense and expectation.

With the impending Trial of the Moon, word spread to the vassal packs about the upcoming fight. I made my way to Alegria, a loyal vassal pack, where Alpha Leon extended his protection during this crucial time.

"Alpha Leon, I appreciate your support in these trying times," I expressed my gratitude to the formidable leader.

He nodded solemnly, "We stand by you, Damon. It is time for Blood Rose Pack to have a new leader."

Nestled in Alegria's camp, I utilized the time before the fight to train rigorously. The looming battle was the greatest challenge of my life, and I couldn't solely rely on the moon goddess for strength. My own abilities needed honing, and Mark, together with the Wild Fangs, stood by me as my training support.

Each day, the sun painted the sky with hues of amber as I practiced combat moves, sharpening my instincts. The air buzzed with anticipation and the weight of responsibility on my shoulders.

Then, amidst the physical exertion, a pang of longing hit me. I paused, catching my breath, and the quiet camp echoed with my whispered wish.

"I wish you were here, Serena, by my side. Your support means everything." The words hung in the air, a silent plea for her presence in this crucial moment.