The Human Girl Who Tamed Alpha King Chapter 152

JACE

The crowd roared their approval, stomping their feet and howling in the traditional pack celebration.

"As you all know, the winner earns the opportunity to challenge our King to a friendly match," Lucas continued when the noise subsided slightly. "So let's ask our champion if he wishes to challenge our Alpha King."

All eyes turned to Dylan, who stood tall despite his obvious exhaustion.

"I have enormous respect for our King and Queen," Dylan said, his voice carrying across the now-silent arena. "And while the match would be friendly, I know I stand no chance against him. Besides, Nicholas here has worn me out completely, so I'd rather not get beaten up anymore today."

Laughter and cheers erupted throughout the arena. Not because they thought him weak, but because his honesty and humor earned their respect.

"You heard Alpha Dylan," Lucas said with a grin. "And he's probably right – he would get his ass beaten!"

Even Dylan joined in the laughter this time.

I descended from the stands and strode into the arena, approaching Dylan and Nicholas. Reaching out, I clasped Dylan's hand firmly in mine. Then, to his evident surprise, I raised our joined hands high above our heads.

"Your winner – ALPHA DYLAN WARREN!" I shouted.

The crowd's response was deafening. When the noise finally subsided enough for me to be heard, I announced that everyone was free to go and reminded them that dinner would be served at the same time as yesterday. People began filing out of the arena, still discussing the match.

I turned to Nicholas, extending my hand. "Excellent fight, Alpha Nicholas."

He bowed his head slightly. "Thank you, my King." We both chuckled as we spotted Aria approaching, accompanied by Gabriel, Marcus, and Luna Seraphina.

"You fought well, son," Marcus said, embracing Nicholas.

"Thanks, Dad," Nicholas replied before Marcus turned to Dylan.

"And sincere congratulations to you, Alpha Dylan," Marcus said warmly.

"Thank you, Alpha Marcus," Dylan answered respectfully.

"Dylan, why don't you and Nicholas join us at our table tonight?" I suggested. "Nicholas can spend time with his parents, and I know Gabriel, Lucas, and the others consider you family."

Dylan bowed his head. "It would be my honor, my King."

"Perfect. We'll see you all at dinner," I said, turning to Aria. "Let's go rest and get ready for later."

She nodded, clearly tired but satisfied with the day's events. "Yes, let's do that." We said our goodbyes and left the arena together, her hand warm in mine.

ARIA

My eyes snapped open before dawn. Today. Finally today. All that training, all those times getting knocked down and standing back up. Every bruise and ache, every small victory leading to this moment of proving myself worthy of being called Luna of the Ancient Moon Shadow.

I carefully slid out from under Jace's arm, not wanting to wake him yet. The floor felt cold against my bare feet as I tiptoed to the training room.

The training room welcomed me with its familiar scent of leather and sweat. I started my warm-up routine, each movement spot-on and on purpose. Gabriel had drilled these techniques into me until they became second nature. My body remembered even when my mind wanted to panic.

"Ready for your big day, my warrior queen?"

I spun around to find Jace leaning against the doorframe, chest bare and hair tousled from sleep. My heart did that stupid little flip it always does when I see him like this.

"As ready as I'll ever be," I said, grabbing a towel to wipe my face.

Jace crossed the room and pulled me against him. "Your technique and quick thinking beat raw power any day. I've always been proud of you."

"This means everything to me," I said against his chest. "Not just proving myself, but showing everyone else who feels different that they belong too."

"The other competitors should be terrified. My Luna was trained by the most ruthless warrior I know."

I pushed away from him playfully. "I need to finish my warm-up. Give me some space?"

"Of course." He kissed my forehead. "I'll take care of Aurora and Atlas, get your breakfast ready."

"Thanks."

After another lingering kiss, he left. I returned to my training, feeling each muscle work in harmony. Every punch, every kick had to be on point today. I wouldn't get second chances.

---

An hour later, I walked into the kitchen to find Jace at the stove while Gabriel sat at the table with Aurora and Atlas. My little family. The reason I fought so hard.

"Mommy!" Aurora jumped from her chair and crashed into my legs. "Daddy made protein pancakes!"

I scooped her up, breathing in her sweet scent. "Did he now? Are they as good as mine?"

She giggled. "No way!"

"Traitor," Jace muttered, flipping another pancake. "After I added chocolate chips and everything."

Gabriel stood as I approached, embracing me with one arm while balancing Atlas with the other. "Remember your training, little deer. Your speed is your greatest weapon."

"I'll remember, Dad." I took my seat, watching as Jace placed a plate stacked with pancakes in front of me.

"The entire pack stands behind you," Jace said, sitting beside me. His face grew serious. "Win or lose, you've already made history."

The doorbell rang as we finished eating. Eliana arrived with her twins, followed closely by Greta. The half-witch, half-werewolf hybrid had promised to help with childcare during the festival.

"You should get going," Greta said, taking Atlas from Gabriel. "I'll keep them entertained."

I knelt in front of Aurora. "Be good for Aunt Greta, okay? Mommy has to go fight now."

Her little face turned serious. "Will you win?"

"I'll try my best."

"That's good enough," she said, repeating words she'd heard Jace tell her. My heart squeezed at her wisdom.

---

The ancient arena loomed before us, stone walls reaching toward the sky. Werewolves from every pack filled the pathways, many stopping to bow their heads as we passed. The weight of expectation pressed down on my shoulders.

At the entrance, Jace pulled me into a deep kiss that left me breathless. "Show them what real power looks like," he whispered against my lips before kissing me again.

Gabriel hugged me next, his embrace strong despite his illness. "Remember, little deer, we love you."

They left to find their seats while I headed for the guardians' preparation room. Several Lunas were already there, some eyeing me curiously, others with obvious skepticism. I found a quiet corner and began my final mental preparations.