Chapter 28

“The elders and I have met.” Elaine stood between the elders and the rest of the pack, who murmured and shifted in their places. She held a hand up and spoke louder. “We have an important decision ahead of us.”

Elaine was taking the role that Eric had assumed at all the other general pack meetings Josh had attended. As stately as her slender figure was, she lacked the authority that Silverbane held. When he had spoken, the assembly had silenced immediately and awaited his every word.

“Quiet.” Annette’s voice, an unsteady croak, carried the weight of her seven decades of experience. “Our alpha has gone onto his last hunt. Our family has always had an alpha and will have one again. Only the strongest, bravest and keenest can be alpha. Who among you is worthy of the honor?”

Eyes shifted from pack member to pack member.

“I am the best hunter.” Bryce stood up straight. “My grandfather was alpha before Silverbane.”