"Congratulations, Alpha Asher," kept ringing over and over again until it became a mantra Asher just nodded to. He never thought so many people would show up for the coronation, and now, everyone wanted a moment of his time.
Music pulsed through the courtyard, blending with the smell of roasted meat and sweet wine. Laughter filled the air as the west pack celebrated as if tomorrow would never come.
Asher stood by the long banquet table, half-listening to yet another toast. At his side, Ezra watched quietly, only intervening when it was necessary.
A tall man with a polite smile and expensive cologne approached, his human scent distinct even amidst the crowd.
"Alpha Asher," he greeted warmly, extending a hand. "It's an honor. Gideon Mann, CEO of Astra Industries, one of Aster City's top trade companies."
"Astra Industries is a textile conglomerate," Asher noted. "You're the one funding that women's manufacturing hub in District Six."
