CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED & TWENTY SIX
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CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED & TWENTY SIX
Jason’s POV
Lunch with Father was usually quiet, but today he seemed almost pleased. It unnerved me how happy he was.
‘Enjoy the moment while it lasts,’ my wolf said, and I couldn’t help but agree.
We had barely started eating when a firm knock came at the door. Beta Logan entered and bowed. “Alpha Jason. Elder Michael. The Alpha King has requested your presence in his office at noon,” he said.
Father took a sip of his orange juice and asked, “For what reason?”
“The King said he’s reached a conclusion regarding Alpha Nolan’s poisoning case,” Logan explained.
“Understood,” Father said, his voice smooth. “You may tell the King we’ll be there.”
Logan nodded and said, “Of course.”
As soon as the door closed, Father smiled and said, “It seems the King finally came to his senses.”
“Honestly, I had expected the Alpha King to execute Nolan once we revealed the report. Better late than never,” I responded.
Father leaned back in his chair. “With Nolan gone, Blood Moon will be in chaos and will more than likely retaliate. The Alpha King will need loyal allies to fight against the Blood Moon pack. That’s where we come in.”
I nodded. “He’ll owe us for uncovering Nolan’s betrayal.”
“You handled this well, Jason. I’ll admit, I expected you to fail, and I would have to clean up your mess again,” Father said.
I looked up, surprised. “You’re… pleased?”
He smirked slightly. “Let’s not overstate it. You did your job. But yes, I’ll give credit where it’s due. You caught the boy’s mistake and secured the proof.”
For the first time, I felt the rare flicker of pride. “Thank you, Father.”
He waved a hand dismissively, but there was still approval in his tone. “Don’t let it go to your head. Nolan’s downfall is only one step. What comes next will determine whether this victory means anything.”
“I know,” I said. “Once the King executes him, that’s when I’ll make my move.”
Father looked curious. “And what move would that be?”
“The one you planned,” I reminded him. “I’ll marry the princess. The Alpha King will support it after this. He’ll see me as dependable, someone loyal enough to protect his daughter and the pack.”
“And what if the Princess says no?” Father asked.
“I won’t give her the option to say no,” I replied. I will take a page from Nolan’s book. A healthy dose of aphrodisiac and the Princess won’t be able to resist me.
Father gave a low chuckle. “Good. You finally understand how to use timing to your advantage. A political marriage will tie Silverfang to Shadowclaw permanently.”
“It will also silence anyone who doubts my loyalty,” I said. “Once I’m linked to the royal bloodline, no one will question my place.”
He leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table. “And Solon?”
“Solon’s no threat. He’s predictable and too cautious to act without his father’s approval. He’ll grumble, but he won’t resist if the King supports the decision.”
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CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED & TWENTY SIX
+25 Bonus
Father nodded slowly, considering my words before scoffing. “You’re still too weak for my liking.”
“What?” I asked in confusion.
“Solon will always be a threat. Threats should be eliminated, but I do agree. He’s obedient, not ambitious. He won’t challenge you for a title.”
“And I will be mated to his sister. He wouldn’t dare challenge me if it meant his dear sister would be harmed,” I explained.
My father smirked. “Ah. That’s the angle you’re going. Very good.” He reached for the bottle and poured wine into both glasses. “Then we’re finally in agreement. I think this deserves a toast.”
I hesitated but then raised my glass. “To Shadowclaw,” I said.
He lifted his own. “To Shadowclaw and to my son, who finally understands the value of patience.”
We clinked glasses. For once, his tone wasn’t purely critical. I took a drink, feeling both flattered and cautious.
The rest of the meal passed in relative silence. For once, I felt at ease.
When the clock was near 12, Father rose from his chair and straightened his jacket. “Let’s not keep the King waiting,” he said. ” Appear calm, but not arrogant. Remember, he needs to think we are doing this for his best interest.”
I nodded, following his lead.
When we entered, I immediately noticed the number of people inside. Not only were the Alpha King and Prince Solon present, but Nolan was there as well. He was flanked by two guards. Nolan’s wrists were bound in silver cuffs, but beyond that he looked
well.
To my surprise, Talia was there too, sitting beside Healer Leslie. She kept stealing glances at Nolan which made my jaw tighten. Why was she so worried about Nolan? She needed to be looking at me.
Father and I stopped at the center of the room. The Alpha King stood behind his desk. “Elder Michael. Alpha Jason. Thank you for coming,” he said.
“Of course, my King,” Father replied smoothly.
“Let’s get down to business,” the Alpha King said. “As you both know, I’ve invited you two here to hear my verdict on the case against Alpha Nolan.”
“Yes, I applaud you with your swift action on this,” Father stated. “Handling this situation will show your strength to the packs.”
“Indeed, it would,” the Alpha King responded. “I’ve reviewed every statement and piece of evidence regarding the poisoning.”
Father folded his hands behind his back, confident. “And?”
The King’s eyes moved briefly to Nolan. “The act of poisoning was real. That much is clear.”
A flicker of satisfaction crossed Father’s face. “Then justice will be served.”
But the King wasn’t finished. “However,” he continued, his tone sharp, “the investigation found no evidence of collusion between Alpha Nolan and the mad rogues. The substance in question was traced to an isolated batch that had been neutralized.”
I felt my chest tighten. “What?”
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