The Beta Who Walked Away Ashenridge’s Fall

The winter solstice rations were announced. I ranked dead last in the entire pack—a single rabbit pelt.

Garrick Thornvale, the most shameless status-posturing wolf in the den, walked away with prime hunting rights to the eastern ridge for an entire season.

The next morning, I submitted my oath withdrawal.

Aurora Ashthorne actually laughed when she caught my scent approaching with the formal scroll.

"Kael Nightwolf, truly? You're breaking your oath over rations? Because your share was a little smaller than everyone else's?"

She shook her head, her amber eyes glinting with amusement.