The sun rose over UniPort. Samuel shifted back, exhausted but whole, his human form slumping into Esther's arms. Tunde and Ngozi helped them discreetly retreat.
The Pack, sobered by the events and the sight of the transformed Samuel, immediately recognized the new order.
Three days later, Alpha Bamidele called a final Pack Council. Tunde presented a full, detailed report on the Golden Leaf and the confrontation at Ikeazor Hall.
"The old ways are dead," Bamidele announced to the assembled wolves. "The Pack is free, but free needs leadership. We need an Alpha defined not by law, but by strength and the wisdom of the New Pact."
He looked at Samuel, who sat quietly beside Esther. "Samuel chose to face the beast, knowing he might lose himself. He chose love over fear, and in doing so, he secured the Pack's freedom and its safety. He is the first wolf to fully control the Change by choice."
Bamidele bowed his head. "We need the wolf that is anchored by the Keeper. Samuel is the new Alpha."
The Pack roared its approval, a sound of wild, joyful acceptance.