Page 140 of Alpha Queen
Ares slammed his fist down, cracking the wooden arm of his throne. "ENOUGH!" The word vibrated with power, silencing the room instantly. "This is not a negotiation. This is a royal decree. And this, right here, is why this is happening. How many of you would have dared to challenge our father? Or even speak back to him? In his absence, we have not done enough, and that ends now."
Apollo's eyes flashed. "For too long, we've allowed territories to operate unchecked, and look where it has led us. To rebellion. To death. To innocent wolves cast out, falling prey to those who would use them. No more. We are going back to the way things were before. We, the kings and our High Luna, will decide justice from now on with the counsel from the elders."
"The White Tail Pack will serve as a transition point for rogues," River added. "But it's a temporary solution to a permanent problem. The real change must come from within each territory. And we are all ready to make sure this kind of thing never happens again."
"Those who oppose this decree," Ares growled, "are welcome to challenge us now or leave our society for good." His eyes swept the room, lingering on each Alpha who had voiced a protest. "Any takers?"
The silence that followed was absolute.
"Good," Apollo said coldly. "Then this is the last time we will ever allow arrogance or challenges by anyone again. We will chalk this up to what everyone is enduring due to the loss of loved ones. But, next time one of you dares to call out either of us or our mate, the High Luna, it will be an automatic challenge for the throne. There will be no more warnings. No more asking if you want to challenge. It will be an implied challenge to be answered immediately."
"Council sessions will begin in two weeks. Each Alpha will present its territory records for review. There will be no exceptions," said River. "Prepare your packs as well. Let them know what is coming. If you try to change records or intimidate pack members so they don't talk, or so they lie, we will find out and the punishment will be swift and final."
Ares looked over the group. "The trial of Titan Longtooth is now concluded."
Duncan and Zeke hauled Titan's broken body from the floor. Despite his injuries, he managed to lift his head one final time, his gaze fixing on River with such hatred that she instinctively reached for Ares and Apollo.
"This isn't over," he rasped as they dragged him toward the door, leaving a trail of blood across the marble floor. "She'll always be mine."
Apollo's growl vibrated through the chamber as he took a step forward.
"He's not worth it," River whispered. "He'll be dead soon anyway."
Her legs wobbled, but she forced herself to remain upright, her wolf strengthening her. Even so, she clutched Ares' hand.
The doors closed behind Titan with a finality that seemed to release something in the room. The tension that had held everyone began to dissipate.
"You are dismissed," Ares announced.
The wolves filed out, many casting glances at the royal family. Some nodded in reluctant acceptance, others held resentment.
When the last of them had exited, River's composure broke. Her legs gave way beneath her. Apollo caught her.
"I've got you," he murmured, his lips brushing her temple. "It's over."
Ares’ broad palm stroked her back as emotions she'd been holding in for an hour burst free. Her body shook with silent sobs, the emotional weight of everything- the trial, the revelations, the brutal justice- crashed down on her at once.
"I thought I could handle it," she said between ragged breaths. "I thought I was strong enough."
"You were perfect," Ares assured her, his voice a soothing rumble. "More than perfect."
Apollo lifted her, carrying her to a small antechamber adjacent to the ballroom. He settled on a plush sofa with River in his lap, while Ares knelt before them, taking her hands.
"What you did today," Apollo said, "was incredible. You showed more mercy than anyone expected."
"And more strength," Ares added. "You faced him without flinching. Even when he threatened you again."
River's hands trembled. "He'll never stop. Even in death, he'll haunt me."
"No," Apollo said. "After tomorrow, he'll be nothing but ash and a fading memory. He has no power over you anymore."
The door opened, and Cherry appeared, her eyes immediately finding her daughter. Without a word, she crossed the room.
"You did good," she said. "I'm so proud of you. Of all of you. Not taking shit from any of those Alphas and Betas. You did good. Your parents would be proud."
Strider's tall frame darkened the doorway before he joined them. "We'll keep our ears open for rumors in the packs. I know shifters all over. I'll start making calls."
Apollo nodded. "Thank you."
