"A woman cannot lead a pack," my father, Alpha Darious Nightbane, declared coldly, standing before the gathered Council and warriors at the final trial of the Heir Selection Ceremony.

I stood, breathless and bloodied, having just defeated the last of the contenders in front of a crowd that expected a new leader to rise. I had won. Fairly. Decisively.

But it didn't matter. Not to him.

In my wolf form, I had towered over the last fallen candidate, my claws pressed firmly to his throat, not enough to kill, but enough to make him submit. The crowd had fallen silent, every gaze locked onto me.

I stood at the center of the grand arena, still in my wolf form, tall, lean, and blood-smeared, my white coat streaked with dust and crimson. My breathing was steady, controlled, the silence around me heavy with judgment. Across the room, my father's cold, commanding black eyes found mine. But I didn't blink.

"Why?" My voice rang out, sharp and unwavering, "I defeated every candidate. I earned this."

I was Seraphina Nightbane, the only child of the Alpha of the North. No one questioned him. No one dared. Although I always had.

My father's jaw clenched, his expression hardening but there was a flicker in his eyes. Regret, maybe. Or something dangerously close to it.

"Because it's tradition," he said, quieter at first, then louder as if he needed the conviction to hold. "Only men can lead a pack. That is the law. Women…were born to follow. To obey. Not to rule."

He looked away for the briefest second, then snapped his gaze back to mine. "This law has guided our kind for generations, and it will remain so. Tradition is not up for debate."

I was born of his blood, Alpha blood, and still it was never enough. I knew it wouldn't be. I could crush every opponent, prove myself a hundred times over, and it still wouldn't matter. All because I was a woman.

That one truth had always been enough to cage me.

Around us, the pack Elders nodded in solemn agreement, their expressions passive. Compliant.

A low growl rumbled in my chest, deep and primal. My claws scraped against the stone floor, muscles coiling beneath my white fur as fury surged through me.

With a snarl, I launched forward, teeth bared as all my restraint nearly slipped away.

"What was the point of the Heiress Selection Ceremony then?" I demanded, voice cracking but loud enough to echo. "Why make me compete at all if you never intended to choose me?"

He didn't blink. "It was never about naming you heir," he said coldly, "It was a formality. Meant to remind our people that tradition still matters."

My heart pounded. "So all this bloodshed, all this battle, me winning, it meant nothing?"

"Strength means nothing in a woman who forgets her place," he snapped, "You were born to support, not lead."

The words punched through me. "So I should have lost to make you comfortable?" I spat bitterly, "You raised me like a warrior only to cage me like a pawn."

A stunned hush fell over the crowd. His jaw clenched. Fury flickered in his eyes like fire catching wind.

"You dare question me?" His voice boomed, his cold eyes turned murderous.

I barely had time to brace myself when a frightening crunch of bone and sinew, my father transformed. His furiously black wolf loomed over me, radiating dominance and demanding submission.

Power exploded from him, thick and oppressive, slamming into me like a tidal wave. My lungs seized. My knees hit the stone floor with a crack.

His massive black wolf snarled, his aura like a storm pressing down on my spine. I couldn't move. Couldn't breathe. My wolf whimpered deep inside, instinctively submitting under the weight of his dominance.

"I've made my decision," he declared, his voice booming across the arena, echoing against stone and silence.

"Since no candidate proved themselves worthy today, the Alpha title will pass to my nephew."

My breath caught like a blade in my throat.

My cousin?

A ripple of stunned gasps spread through the crowd, but my ears barely registered them. The ache in my chest drowned out everything.

Though he wasn't done.

"As for Seraphina," he continued, voice cutting through me like steel, "will marry the Alpha King."

The world stopped. Just… stopped.

"…What?" I whispered. My voice didn't even sound like mine. It came from somewhere small and broken. "You—no…you wouldn't—"

"The Alpha King arrives tomorrow," my father announced, his tone final, "You will become his Luna. He will take you from this pack, as traditional commands."

He growled at me, my wolf submitting to him completely.

I collapsed fully, my palms splayed against the cold ground, trembling beneath the force of him. Tears welled up in my eyes. I was being discarded.

Not just as an heir. But as a daughter. As a warrior. As a wolf.

I was a bargaining chip. A token bride for a king whose face I had never seen.

The crowd dispersed quickly leaving me alone in the arena.

Tears spilled as a sob tore from my chest but I controlled them. My claws scratched the ground as my heart bled. My body had given in, but my spirit hadn't.

"I refuse," I said softly, my voice like steel wrapped in velvet, "I won't be mated to a stranger, even if he is the Alpha King," shifting back into my human form, I sat on the cold floor slowly, " I will not serve as a pawn to preserve my father's alliances. If he won't give me the title I earned...I'll make my own."

My gaze shifted to a pamphlet about the Lupine Academy on the arena's pillar.

Lupine Academy, the elite training ground for male Alpha heirs.

"That…is my escape," I whispered, "And my path to the throne."

If this world had no place for a female Alpha then I would carve one out with my own hands.

I had one night before the Alpha King arrived.

One night to disappear. One night to reclaim my destiny.

I had one night to be reborn.

To become Seth, instead of Sera.

---

## 3. ENTERING THE WOLF DEN

*SERAPHINA

Lupine Academy was the most elite training ground for Alpha heirs. A brutal, male-dominated proving ground where the next generation of leaders was forged. The top student didn't just graduate with honors, he built an empire and ruled every werewolf pack in the realm.

I had dreamed of it since I was a small child, the tests, the strategy, the raw competition. Of course there was one problem.

They only accepted males.

That hadn't mattered before. I was meant to stay with my pack, as its future. As its Alpha.

But now? An arranged marriage.

My mind moved fast, replaying every detail I knew about the Academy. New recruits join this time every year. My father had forbidden me from even watching the trials, but if I moved now under cover of night, I could still make it in time.

I didn't need permission. I just needed a disguise and I was already on it.

I stood in front of the mirror, my heart pounding as I pulled the cloth tighter around my chest, flattening every trace of my femininity. My breath came shallow, restricted — just like it needed to be.

This was the only way in. The Lupine Academy didn't accept females. But they wouldn't see one.

They'd see Seth. Seth Darven. Aunt Marrisa's son that was supposed to attend the Academy but he refused and now I was replacing him.

I slipped on his old clothes — loose, worn, but perfect. My fingers slightly slowly only once as I lifted the perfume my best friend and also a witch, Lily had brought. One spray, and the scent of my lineage, my body vanished. No one could pick my feminine scent and I could not do that as well. Even my long hair shimmered, appearing short in the mirror.

It was all an illusion. Even for me.

But there was a huge disadvantage that I could not hide my identity if I shifted into my wolf but at least I had something to hide my scent and hair.

With one last glance at the bedroom, I'd once called mine, I pulled open the window, threw my luggage down, and leapt into the darkness below.

I ran away from the pack and the marriage.

After a day of relentless travel, I finally arrived at Lupine Academy, a testament to centuries of werewolf heritage and tradition, nestled deep within the heart of the Blackpine Forest. As dawn broke, I emerged from the treeline and paused at the edge of a clearing, my heart skipping a beat at the sight before me. It was as if I was teleported from the modern time to the ancient time. The place I had only heard about and longed to see was now a reality. Only this was more than a visit; I was about to become part of it.

The academy's architecture was a harmonious blend of ancient craftsmanship and natural elements. Towering spires reached skyward, their tips disappearing into the morning mist. Dense woods surrounded the main edifice, serving both as a natural barrier and a training ground.

Established over nine hundred years ago by the revered first Alpha King of the realm, the academy was founded with a singular vision: to cultivate and train the next generation of Alpha leaders. Every five years, a special battle was organized among the students. The winner would become a powerful leader, a Supreme Alpha, with the authority to create their own pack and lead all four regional Alphas. Alpha heirs impatiently awaited this day, but during the last hundred years, no one had won this battle. I was here to change that, to win the impossible battle and design my own throne.

Approaching the wrought-iron gates, I noted the intricate designs of wolves in mid-howl and moons in various phases—each symbol telling the story of battles fought and won. A thrill ran through me. This was it, the beginning of my journey to claim the leadership denied to me by birthright. With a final glance at the towering structure before me, I stepped forward, crossed the iron gates, and walked through the green clearing. Each step filled me with excitement and happiness until a group of seven or eight male wolves burst out of the large door of the edifice, some stumbling in their haste, their expressions full of fear and horror.

"What is going on?" I murmured, watching them in confusion and growing panic. One of them fell to his knees a short distance from me, coughing up blood.

I rushed to his side, noting his ID, which indicated he was a new student joining today, like me.

"Are you alright?" I asked, noticing the other wolves were in no better condition.

He coughed more violently. Something felt off. He was clearly an Alpha, so what could have affected his wolf so severely that he was coughing blood? "What happened? Why are you all running like this? And why are you coughing blood?"

He only lifted a shaking finger and pointed at the large wooden door of the academy from which they had all fled. Then he got up and dashed toward the academy doors without looking back.

I stood upright, cautiously advancing toward the grand entrance, my wolf, Phina, alert within my mind. The other day when Seth came to visit me he had said that the wolves at Lupine Academy were far deadlier than one could imagine, monstrous beings who preyed upon the weak and newly initiated Alpha heirs. Survival among them was rare. Moments ago, I had witnessed firsthand the new Alpha recruits fleeing in terror. Yet, this did not waver my determination.

Crossing the threshold, I realized how Seth's words were true. The air was thick with masculinity; male Alphas dominated the vast hall. The moment I stepped in, the air shifted.

Laughter and chatter ceased abruptly, plunging the hall into silence as they sensed my presence. Predatory eyes turned toward me, assessing, sizing me up. Some scoffed, dismissing my smaller frame clad in the academy's uniform. Others, particularly the strongest among them, appeared intrigued. Unfiltered dominance permeated the space. Every student here was an Alpha heir, forged in brutality, and I had just entered their world.

This was my first encounter with so many male Alphas. I had entered the wolf's den.

"Fresh meat," someone jeered.

Under their penetrating gazes, I proceeded cautiously, ensuring my strides and posture mirrored that of a male. Maintaining a low profile was imperative; attracting undue attention risked exposure.

Mid walk, my eyes were drawn to the visual representation of the academy's hierarchy. A massive stone leaderboard etched with the names of the top Alpha contenders.

At the pinnacle sat Alpha Ronan Volkstane, son of the Southern Alpha.

I blinked, recalling Seth's mention of him. Alpha Ronan was ruthless, undefeated, and dangerously unpredictable—the exact type of individual I needed to avoid.

My gaze then shifted to the second position.

Alpha Dante Blackwood, son of the Eastern Alpha.

Unfamiliar with him, I surmised that his high rank signified considerable danger.

Pressing my lips together, I studied the rankings. It appeared I had joined late; the battles and competitions had commenced long ago, and my name was absent from the list. I needed to discreetly ascend through the ranks to achieve victory. Unbeknownst to me, my very presence had already disrupted the established balance.

A sudden, oppressive aura touched Phina, stirring her within my mind. I tore my eyes from the rankings, scanning my surroundings. What was that sensation? Why were these wolves releasing their auras? Their eyes, filled with mockery, lips curled into sinister smiles, their sharp auras encircled me, intensifying their oppressive energy. Within moments, I was besieged by their combined dominance. Suddenly, I understood why the other new recruits had fled.

Phina growled in my mind, "We're being forced into a dominance match."

I calmly and silently agreed with her. This wasn't a physical fight but a ritual where wolves asserted their strength through sheer presence. Those unable to withstand it would be instantly subdued, much like the others I'd already met. A direct defeat.

Assailed by the dominance of numerous Alphas, a discomfort coursed through me, and Phina grew increasingly uneasy. Yet, I stood tall, averting my gaze to avoid appearing overly strong. The longer I endured, the more their egos suffered. One by one, they intensified their efforts, attempting to subjugate me with their dominance, until, frustrated, they withdrew.

I took a discreet, deep breath, believing the ordeal over with. Until, a dangerously sharp aura struck me. I gasped, and Phina froze within my mind. What was this? It was the strongest, most lethal aura I'd ever encountered—the aura of a beast.

A cold, piercing presence fixated on me. Slowly, I lifted my eyes to the balcony, locking onto a pair of violet eyes that seemed to penetrate my very soul.

I froze as his striking features came into view—a strong jawline, sun-kissed skin, and brown hair that fell just past his ears, tousled in a way that added to his effortless charm.

Standing tall with a powerful, muscular build, the Alpha exuded an aura of deadly dominance and godly allure that demanded submission. The longer our eyes locked, the more his gaze intensified.

A sudden uproar erupted around me.

"He didn't flinch under Ronan's aura!"

"Yeah, no one has ever withstood Ronan's aura before. Who is this wolf?"

The handsome wolf's expression darkened at the murmurs. I blinked. Wait, did they just call him Ronan? Ronan Volkstane?!

"This new meat won the dominance match against Ronan Volkstane!" someone shouted.

Shit! It shouldn't have unfolded this way. I immediately tore my eyes from Ronan.

Turning to exit the hall, feigning ignorance of the commotion, I suddenly collided with a broad chest, well-defined and tapering down to a lean waist—the epitome of masculine perfection, blocking my path.

I froze and slowly looked up to find Alpha Ronan Volkstane towering over me. The surrounding hall fell into a dead silence as he demanded, "Who are you?"

---

## 4. THE WOLF AMONG THE WOLVES

*SERAPHINA

"Who are you?" demanded the last person I wanted to encounter at the Academy.

His voice was deep and commanding, much like his strikingly handsome face. Yet, his intense violet eyes spelled my doom, causing my heartbeat to race uncontrollably. Had something in my disguise betrayed me? I was confident the scent-masking potion was effective; otherwise, chaos would have already erupted. If everything was in place, why had he stopped me? It wasn't possible that he had ever met Seth Darven in person, right? I was a wolf among wolves. If he suspected anything or if I were exposed, I wouldn't just face expulsion—I would be hunted.

I couldn't let that happen. Retreating or walking away might arouse suspicion, so I responded in the deep, masculine voice I had practiced on my journey here, "Seth Darven."

His expression shifted slightly. Not wanting to engage with him further, I attempted to walk past, but he blocked my path again. "You don't smell like the rest of them," he murmured, leaning down to inhale a scent that wasn't there, thanks to my potion. "What are you hiding, Seth Darven?"

My heart plummeted into my stomach, not only because of his words but also his actions. I barely maintained a neutral expression. Why was he the only one who noticed? I took a step back before he could detect anything unusual about me.

"What does it have to do with you?" I demanded, frowning. He was unpredictable, dangerous—even more than he appeared. Unbeknownst to me, a pair of blue eyes had been watching from the balcony the entire time—someone whose aura had been subdued without my awareness.

The Alphas around us secretly gasped as I addressed the strongest Alpha in the Academy so brazenly, while my sharp eyes remained locked with Ronan's in displeasure. There was no way I could let him perceive anything unusual about me.

Suddenly, he tilted his head, and a small, mysterious smile crossed his lips. A chill ran down my spine. What did that mean? It felt like nothing but danger—more danger. Phina, my wolf, and I grew increasingly uncomfortable in his presence for some unknown reason.

Without a word, I walked past him, feeling his gaze follow my every move. I exited the hallway without looking back. Once I was finally alone, I placed a hand over my racing heart. Who was this Alpha? And why did he act this way? The way his eyes scrutinized me, the way he behaved—it was terrifying. Could it be because I hadn't succumbed to his aura? I clenched my fists at my sides. On the very first day, I had caught the attention of someone like him. And it meant nothing but trouble for me. I had to stay away from him from now on, no matter the cost. There should be no further encounters between us.

A voice called out from behind. "Seth Darven?"

I turned to find a middle-aged man approaching, his uniform marking him as a dormitory assistant. "Yes, that's me."

He looked me up and down in surprise, as if he hadn't expected me to make it to the Academy, then stated after a moment, "I'm here to show you to your room." He gestured for me to follow.

The dormitory was a sprawling building, its corridors echoing with the sounds of Alphas. The assistant led me to a room at the end of a long hallway.

"This will be your quarters," he said, opening the door.

I sucked in a relieved breath. Finally, I had made it to my room without any major problems. All I wanted was to shut myself in and take a long, deep breath, but as soon as I stepped in, my senses were overwhelmed by the unmistakable scent of males—musk, sweat, and a hint of something more primal. I froze in the middle of the room in shock. Three young men were already inside, their conversations halting as they turned to assess the newcomer.

Wait, this couldn't be what I thought it was, right?!

I turned around at lightning speed to the assistant. "I think I'm in the wrong room!"

He flipped through the list in his hand to double-check and replied, "This is the room that you will be sharing with other Alphas," as he walked away.

My mind went blank. What had he just said? I had to share a room with others? That's when I recalled that I was in a boys' dormitory, and that's how it worked. It had just hit me all of a sudden when I wasn't ready for it. Taking a deep breath, I turned to my roommates.

One of them, a blond with a cocky smirk, leaned against his bunk. "You're the new pup?" he drawled, his tone dripping with condescension.

I met his gaze, keeping my expression neutral. "Seth Darven," I introduced myself, my voice firm.

He chuckled, exchanging a glance with the others.

"Reed," he said, not bothering to extend a hand. "This is Cassius," he nodded toward a dark-haired Alpha with piercing blue eyes, who offered a curt nod. "And that's Finn." The third, a lanky boy with reddish-brown hair, gave a shy wave.

I surveyed the room. It was really big with all the facilities. Three beds were already claimed, leaving one by the window. I moved toward it, but before I could place my bag down, Reed's smirk widened. He casually tossed his duffel onto the bed.

"That one's mine," he stated, his eyes brimming with challenge.

A surge of irritation flared within me, but I suppressed it. I couldn't afford to draw unnecessary attention. Instead, I met his gaze evenly.

"Didn't see your name on it," I replied coolly.

The room grew tense, the air thick with unspoken challenges. Cassius, sensing the brewing conflict, intervened.

"Relax, Reed. Let the newbie settle in. He won't last long anyway."

Reed held my gaze for a moment longer before shrugging. "Whatever," he muttered, retrieving his bag and flopping onto his own bed but not before bumping into me intentionally.

My ID card dropped from my hand falling on the ground. Just as I bent down to grab it another hand came to pick it up for me.

"Here," Finn softly stated, handing it over to me.

"Thanks," I accepted, noticing he had been studying me closely.

"Heard you defeated Alpha Ronan's aura. Is it true?" his voice was low.

I pursued my lips. It seems by now the whole academy had heard about it. It was really troublesome. "How could I possibly do such a thing? People are just making fun of me," I lied smoothly.

"Really?" He looked a little doubtful, "I hope it is really a rumor because no one survived in this academy when that Reaper set eyes on someone," he explained, my mind stopping at Ronan's nickname.

"Reaper?" I held my breath, recalling the intense look and chilling smile on Ronan's lips. It was neither evil nor godly, just a perfect mixture of both of them. Just like a Reaper.

Finn just nodded in response, "Be careful," saying, he turned to his own bed.

I pursed my lips, Ronan's whisperer echoing in my ears. I really had to be careful.

As I placed my belongings on the now-available bed, I took a moment to steady my breathing. My eyes scanned the room, noting the presence of a fifth bed—a king-size, untouchable-looking bed. Curiosity sparked within me. Who did it belong to? There was no name tag. And there was no stuff around it.

"Move," a deep voice commanded from right behind me.

Surprised, I turned around swiftly, only to find Ronan standing mere inches away.

"You!" My eyes widened in shock. "Why are you here?"

The other Alphas in the room grew tense at his presence, and realization dawned upon me. The fifth bed…

The corner of his lips curled up into a smirk as he leaned down closer to my face and whispered, "Welcome to my den, little wolf."

---

## 4. CAFETERIA

*SERAPHINA

What cruel twist of fate was this? How could Alpha Ronan end up as one of my roommates? I had resigned myself to sharing the room with the other three Alphas, but he was an entirely different matter. He didn't even attempt to conceal the predatory glint in his eyes. Clenching my fists at my sides, I questioned why it had to be him. Living with him would be akin to residing with a hungry lion.

Biting my cheek discreetly, I stepped out of his path and proceeded to my bed to unpack. Fortunately, new students were granted a day off to settle in, so I wasn't required to be anywhere else.

"Ronan, we didn't expect you to be here today," Reed remarked with a hesitant, panicked smile, a stark contrast to the smug expression he had worn earlier.

What did they mean by not expecting him? I continued unpacking, choosing to ignore them until Ronan responded, "Something interesting caught my eye, so I came to play."

My hand froze mid-motion, sensing Ronan's gaze fixed on my back.

At that moment, a bell rang.

Cassius groaned, "Oh, I'm starving after morning training. Let's go." Reed followed him almost immediately.

I watched their retreating figures. Was it time for breakfast? Finn paused, meeting my confused gaze, and informed me, "It's breakfast time, and the cafeteria is on the ground floor. If you don't arrive on time, there won't be any food left for you." His voice was softer than the others', almost gentlemanly.

I blinked. Did he just help me? "Thank you," I replied.

He nodded and left the room. It seemed not all Alphas were mean-spirited; some, like Finn, appeared kind. A small smile formed on my lips, but I soon felt it again—an intense gaze boring into me.

I slowly glanced to the side, where Alpha Ronan sat on the king-size bed, legs crossed, back straight, his violet eyes unblinkingly staring at me. Why hadn't he left with them? And why was he staring so intently? I looked away and resumed unpacking, hoping he would leave soon. I desired some time alone to arrange my personal belongings without an audience, but he showed no intention of leaving. With each passing second, my uneasiness grew as his stare intensified.

Unable to bear it any longer, I stopped unpacking and left the room without looking back. As I walked down the hallway, I glanced over my shoulder. What was his deal? He remained in the room, but now I had to head to the cafeteria, even though I wasn't particularly hungry.

However, when I reached the ground floor, my wolf caught the delicious scent of food. Without needing directions, I found the cafeteria. Upon entering, I was surrounded by hundreds of Alphas in academy uniforms. I quietly made my way to the serving area and began filling my plate, but my small stature still attracted attention. Unbothered by their mockery, I served myself and searched for an empty seat, which seemed impossible to find. Everyone was seated in their own groups, and sitting with random Alphas could be risky in many ways. Newcomers were often unwelcome, especially when perceived as weak.

"Seth!" someone called.

I tilted my head to the right to find Cassius waving at me. "Come, sit with us," he offered.

Reed and Finn were with him. I hesitated. They were still strangers, and our first encounter hadn't been pleasant. So why was he inviting me over? I scanned the room for another option but found no empty seats.

"What are you waiting for? Come on. There's an empty seat here," Cassius called again.

Having no other option, I nodded and started toward their table, carefully holding my plate. But Finn's gaze seemed to convey a warning. My steps slowed as I realized he was advising me not to join them. Something felt off—Reed's smile, Cassius' sudden kindness. Nothing came free in this world, and this felt suspicious. So, I decided not to approach them. Instead, I turned around, noting Reed's subtle clenching of his teeth as his plan failed.

Just as I found an empty seat and was about to sit, thinking I had avoided unwanted trouble, someone bumped into me hard, causing me to stumble forward. In an attempt to save my food and myself, I didn't notice someone was directly in front of me, and my entire plate spilled all over his uniform.

I gasped as the entire cafeteria fell into a dead silence. Holding the plate still in my hand, I felt the aura of the Alpha before me, mysterious and sharp as a blade, enveloping me in furious energy.

As I steadied myself and looked up, I was met with the imposing figure of a breathtakingly handsome Alpha. His dark, wavy hair framed a chiseled face marked by high cheekbones and a strong jawline. His piercing blue eyes were reminiscent of a stormy sea, locked onto mine with an intensity that froze me.

Whispers spread through the cafeteria like wildfire.

"He spoiled Dante's uniform!"

"On the very first day, he messed with the wrong person!"

My hand tightened on the plate. Did I just hear them call this Alpha... Dante? Dante Blackwood?!

His tall, muscular build loomed over me, the academy uniform straining slightly over broad shoulders and a chest carved from stone. Every inch of him radiated power and precision, as if he'd been sculpted for battle. His face was all sharp angles and impossible beauty—high cheekbones, a square jaw dusted with stubble, and a mouth set in a dangerous, unreadable line. But it was his eyes that pinned me in place—icy blue, glinting with fury and something far more lethal. No wonder he was ranked second among the Alphas.

Shit. This was a disaster. He looked extremely pissed off.

Trying to avoid escalating things, I quickly decided to apologize. "I am sor—"

Before I could finish, he closed the distance between us, his presence overwhelming as he growled low in my face, "You little fucker, how dare you mess with me?"

I met his eyes with forced calm, though his aura pressed against me like a vise. "Someone bumped into me. It wasn't intentional," I clarified, voice steady.

"Is that so?" A cold grin spread on his lips. "Then let me be clear—whatever I do to you from now on will be very, very intentional." His voice was a low, dangerous murmur, his eyes flicking over my face like he was memorizing it. "Watch your back."

With that, he stalked past me.

The cafeteria slowly returned to its noisy rhythm, but I remained frozen, still clutching the plate.

First Ronan, now Dante.

On my very first day, I had managed to offend both of the top-ranked Alphas. Why them? Why me?

Cursing under my breath, I dumped the plate and left the cafeteria without a backward glance—unaware that from the far end, Ronan had seen everything. And he hadn't looked away once from my back.

---

## 5. THE FIRST NIGHT

*SERAPHINA

My first night at the Lupine Academy was anything but peaceful. I spent the entire night lying stiffly on the edge of my bed. Never in my life had I shared a room with anyone, let alone slept surrounded by people. Not just any just any group of people, Alpha males. My wolf's ears perked up at the slightest sound: the shift of weight on mattresses, the scrape of fingernails, or even a muffled cough. Every little movement made my muscles tense, especially knowing Alpha Ronan was one of them.

He had returned to the room after lights out when I was already in bed. I pretended to be asleep, my back turned in his direction, but for some reason, I felt his gaze lingering on me in the darkness. I clenched my blanket tighter. Was I imagining it because he'd spent the entire day staring at me? I didn't dare turn to confirm it. Better to leave it unanswered, knowing for sure would have robbed me of what little sleep I managed to snatch.

Morning came with the unmistakable sound of Reed and Cassius bickering, cursing, and throwing playful punches at each other. It was unnecessarily loud and obnoxious. Resigned, I sat up in bed, blinking my sleep-heavy eyes open — only to freeze as Ronan walked into the room, freshly bathed and wearing nothing but a towel slung low around his hips.

My breath caught in my throat and my eyes widened, as I nearly toppled off the bed, completely caught off guard by the unexpected display of near-nudity. Why the hell was he roaming around like that? His eyes were already fixed on me, so I quickly schooled my expression, forcing my features into a mask of indifference as I stood up from the bed. But my heart was still racing like a wild stallion in my chest.

Of course, it was an all-male dormitory. Such casual nakedness was probably normal here. Reed was half-naked, and Cassius… well, his state of undress didn't even bear describing. Yet none of them compared to Ronan. His body was lethal perfection — every inch of him was hard, honed muscle. While tying my shoes, I couldn't stop my eyes from stealing a glance. Droplets of water rolled down his wet hair and slid over his eight-pack abs, trailing down toward the towel hanging dangerously low around his hips. His broad, intimidating 6'3" frame seemed to command the room without effort.

Unlike the others, Ronan's back wasn't flawless. It was marred by scars — old, jagged things criss crossing his skin. Not the kind you earned from sparring matches or academy drills. No, those scars told a different story. A history of brutal battles. Real, bloody wars. Despite myself, I found my gaze lingering, drawn by a curiosity I couldn't name.

Then, as if sensing my scrutiny, he casually hooked a finger under the edge of his towel, and my breath hitched as it loosened slightly. Instantly, I yanked my eyes away, my heart thudding wildly. Shit. I'd seen naked men before, plenty of times during training and on the battlefield. But for some reason, when it came to him, it rattled me.

Get a grip, Sera, I silently scolded myself and made my way to my cupboard.

The room gradually emptied as the other Alphas started getting ready in their uniforms, leaving me to gather a fresh uniform. I was just reaching for it when Ronan's voice came from right behind me.

"You slept in your uniform?"

I froze, my hand tightening around the fabric. He was standing close, far too close. I hadn't intended to sleep fully dressed. I wanted to change into something more comfortable, but every time I'd considered it, one of them would show up, making it impossible to undress without risking exposure. And I couldn't let anyone see the bandages around my chest.

"I was too lazy to change," I replied casually, forcing myself to turn and meet his gaze.

One dark brow arched. "Then what? Too lazy to shower, too?"

I bit the inside of my cheek. Truth was, I'd been avoiding it. Afraid that the water might wash away the concealing scent of the perfume I used to mask my true identity. I'd planned to bathe once the room was empty, but why the hell was he so interested in my hygiene?

"I love being dirty," I shot back, a wicked grin playing on my lips as his expression darkened. Across the room, Finn stiffened, clearly catching my comment. I kept going, just to see the look on Ronan's face. "Sometimes I don't bathe for weeks. Months, even."

I was about to add something even more outrageous to hopefully creep him out for good when Cassius burst into the room, slinging an arm around my shoulders like we were old friends. My wolf tensed instantly at the unwanted, too-close contact. It took every ounce of restraint not to twist his arm and slam him to the floor.

"Seth! You haven't washed up yet, have you?" he grinned, completely oblivious. "Let's hit the showers before the bell rings."

My stomach dropped. Communal showers? No private stalls? My pulse hammered against my ribs.

Before I could react, a deep, low growl rippled through the room. Everyone stilled.

Ronan's sharp eyes locked on Cassius, his gaze flicking pointedly to the arm draped around my shoulders. "Don't you see I'm talking to him?" His voice was a deadly, simmering threat. "Get out."

---

## 6. HOW DARE YOU?

*SERAPHINA

Cassius instantly dropped his arm and, with a muttered apology, ducked out with the others.

I stared after him, then glanced back at Ronan, unsettled by the sudden aggression in his stance. What the hell was that about?

"Ronan," someone called from outside the room.

Ronan turned toward the doorway, where a handsome Alpha with dirty blonde hair leaned casually against the frame. A powerful, commanding aura surrounded him, the kind that made even the air feel heavier.

Without a word, Ronan gave him a brief nod — and for some reason, cast a fleeting glance in my direction before striding out.

I let out a breath I hadn't realized I was holding. His presence alone threatened something inside me I couldn't name.

Soon, the others were ready in their uniforms, while I busied myself unpacking the few belongings I had left, pretending to be preoccupied as I neatly arranged them in the cupboard.

Without warning, Reed kicked my shoe — not hard enough to injure, but not gently either.

"Hey, Tiny," he sneered, looking down at me with a twisted grin. "I'm sure you read the instructions about living in the dormitory."

I glanced up at him, keeping my expression calm and indifferent. "I did."

"Then why the hell aren't you ready yet?!" he snapped, his voice grating and sharp. "The bell's about to ring, and everyone has to be in the cafeteria, training grounds, or hall according to schedule. Sharing a room with a weakling like you is already embarrassing enough. Don't you dare be late or do anything to stain my reputation. I'm in charge of this room, and I swear, if you break any rules, I'll beat you to death."

Growling under his breath, he turned on his heel and stormed out, leaving me standing alone in the now-silent room.

I watched his retreating back, the faint echo of his footsteps fading just as the bell sounded.

Snatching my uniform, I dashed out of the room and sprinted down the empty hallway toward the bathroom. Just as I'd hoped, it was completely empty. But one look at the foggy glass shower stalls made my stomach twist. They offered little privacy, barely a blur between bodies and shapes.

I clenched my jaw. How the hell was I supposed to pull this off every day? I could manage it now, but this wouldn't be sustainable. Sooner or later, someone would notice something. I needed a plan.

Quickly stripping, I took the fastest shower imaginable, doused myself with the scent-masking perfume, and dressed. By the time I reached the cafeteria, I was breathless and half-drenched with both the water and sweat.

The room was already filled with Alphas eating, their eyes following me with unreadable expressions, some curious, others dismissive. Their stares pricked at my skin, but I ignored them and made my way to the food counter.

Only to find it nearly empty.

Most of the food containers were scraped clean. Even the desserts and chicken wings, portions usually prepared to match the number of students, were gone. I glanced up at the server wolf, who immediately looked away, guilt clear in his face.

Behind me, laughter broke out.

Turning my head, I saw the same group of Alphas, plates piled high with more food than they could possibly finish — my share among it.

"Hey, Tiny," one of them, the one they called Jordan, who I remembered standing beside Alpha Dante yesterday, called out with a smirk. He was Dante's friend, "I've got way too much food on my plate. Don't worry, I'll make sure to leave some leftovers for you."

Laughter erupted around him. I silently looked past Jordan to the other side of the cafeteria where a pair of blue eyes were watching me, Dante. He looked like he wanted to tear me apart. I slowly tore my eyes from him.

I didn't rise to Dante's friend's bait. Keeping my expression unreadable, I calmly gathered the few scraps that remained — a couple of small apple slices, a half-serving of potatoes, a glass of water. It wasn't much, but it would have to do.

I took my plate and moved to an empty corner of the cafeteria, sitting alone. Finn sitting some distance away with his friends exchanged a small smile that I returned. But Ronan was nowhere to be found. I thought the rules were for everyone, so how come he acted freely on his own?

The first official day of training and classes was about to begin, and I needed to focus. I wouldn't let a bunch of arrogant Alphas screw with my plans. Laying low was the safest option for now. What mattered was surviving, learning, and eventually claiming the top spot on the leaderboard.

But, apparently, the universe had other ideas.

Jordan and his group made their way over, surrounding my table like a pack of hyenas, grinning like they already owned me.

"Eating so little. Is that why you're so malnourished?" Jordan jeered, loud enough for the entire cafeteria to hear.

Laughter erupted around us.

I calmly bit into my apple slice, not sparing him a glance. His words rolled off me like water off a duck. I wasn't ashamed of my frame. I was, after all, an Alpha female — built with the best physique an Alpha female could possess. But compared to the broader, bulkier builds of male Alphas, my stature naturally appeared smaller. That didn't make me weak.

Jordan's friends chimed in, their voices thick with mockery. "I wonder how this tiny loser made it here. Bet he's got some powerful daddy pulling strings for him."

Another burst of laughter rippled through the room, while Jordan kept his gaze locked on me. Waiting and craving any hint of a reaction.

"I think we all know who is going to be going home today after the day's challenge," someone added with a smug grin, and the wave of insults continued.

But I didn't flinch. I didn't frown. I didn't give them a thing.

Jordan's smugness soured, his temper fraying when he couldn't get a rise out of me. His hand shot out, seizing my collar, yanking me toward him.

"Hey, you little fucker," he growled, his voice low and sharp. "How dare you treat me like air?"

In my head, Phina snarled. 'Let me out. I'll make his hands useless for the rest of his life,'

'No, not now,' I pushed her back, my expression cold, empty.

I met Jordan's gaze, my own eyes unblinking and devoid of fear. Something in the way I stared through him made him hesitate, a flicker of unease flashing in his eyes. He felt it. The insult. The challenge.

His fist rose, aiming for my face.

Before he could even move, a hand slammed a juice cup down onto my table with a sharp, metallic clang. The sudden noise cut through the cafeteria like a blade.

Silence followed, thick and suffocating.

Jordan froze. His face drained of color.

The entire room held its breath.

"Seth Darven," a voice called my name.

I slowly tilted my head up to see Ronan standing right behind me, his expression dark, his presence radiating danger.

He didn't look at Jordan. He didn't look at the others. His focus was solely on me.

"You are a wolf that I took into my den," he said quietly, his voice a low, commanding growl as he tilted my chin up between his fingers, locking his gaze with mine. "How dare you let yourself be bullied?"

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The roar of the crowd still echoed in my ears, but the silence after my father's decree was louder.

I stood in the center of the arena, bloodied paws pressed to stone, my white wolf form trembling not from exhaustion—but rage. I had beaten them all. Every challenger. Every doubt. And still, he looked at me like I was nothing.

'A woman cannot lead a pack,' he said. Cold. Final.

Then came the crushing weight of his dominance, slamming into me like a collapsing mountain. My legs buckled. My wolf whimpered. For the first time in my life, I submitted—to the man who sired me, who trained me, who now sold me to the Alpha King like livestock.

Tears burned behind my eyes as the announcement dropped: I would marry a stranger tomorrow. No choice. No voice. Just obedience.

But as the crowd dispersed and I knelt alone on cold stone, something inside me snapped—and rebuilt.

I shifted back to human form, whispering through gritted teeth: 'I refuse.'

My gaze landed on a faded pamphlet clinging to a pillar—Lupine Academy. All-male. Elite. Unreachable.

Perfect.

If they wouldn't let me rule as Sera… I'd conquer as Seth.

One night to vanish. One night to become someone new.

One night to begin the war.