Perry's POV
Only the two of us occupied the throne room. I hadn't summoned Alpha Tricia, and though he occasionally criticized my impulsive choices, he'd never openly defy me in front of others.
This left Alpha Wallace particularly rattled, facing me without any backup.
Now I demanded proof of his allegiance.
He'd nearly betrayed me once—questioning his loyalty was perfectly reasonable.
Without hesitation, Alpha Wallace raised his claws and sliced off his own ear.
He ripped away his left ear, jaw clenched against the agony. Once finished, he didn't waste time crying out. Instead, he dropped to his knees again, lifting both arms to present his severed ear.
Blood trickled down his throat, soaking his shirt crimson. His hands dripped red while the ear trembled in his shaking palms.
"I pledge my loyalty to you, my king," he managed through the pain. "You are my sovereign, the blood and backbone of this realm," he recited the traditional oath.
