"Brothers and sisters of the West," Elder Kent began, his voice thundering across the crowd. "We gather here tonight before heaven and earth, wolves and men alike, to crown the next Alpha of the West Pack, one chosen not by chance, but by blood, by strength, and by the will of the goddess herself!"
Everyone lifted their heads, watching attentively. Not making a sound.
The elder continued.
"Alpha Asher, do you accept the mantle of leadership over the West Pack? Do you swear to protect your people from all threats, within and without? To uphold the values of the pack, to honor the goddess, to guide with strength and fairness, and to never turn your back on the call of your people?"
Asher answered with a steady voice. "I do."
It was the turn of the priestess, one of the moon mothers who served in Selene's temple. She was a tall elegant woman draped in a white flowing dress.
"Under the watchful eyes of the goddess," she said, "speak now your vow to your people."
