The Human Girl Who Tamed Alpha King Chapter 80

ARIA

Waking up this morning, I already feel the excitement for today. It is the last day of the competitions, and today we will find out which warrior will win. But it is also today that the Alphas who signed up for it will fight. I turn around and see Jace's eyes looking at me.

"Morning, handsome," I say, unable to hide my smile.

"Morning, beautiful." His voice is morning-rough but warm. "Ready for today's fights?"

I stretch my arms above my head. "I've dreamed about being part of this since I was a kid. Watching Dad train the warriors, thinking someday..."

Jace reaches over, tucking a strand of hair behind my ear. "You'll get your chance to show everyone what you can do. I promise. Even if I have to pull rank as Alpha to make it happen."

"I know you will." I lean into his touch. The fact that he supports my fighting when so many wouldn't—it means everything.

After a quick shower, we head to the main hall for breakfast. The entire place buzzes with anticipation for the finals. We're halfway through our meal when I feel the familiar tingle of a mind-link connection.

*Alpha, Luna. I'm sorry, but Eliana isn't feeling well this morning. I'd rather stay with her if that's okay.* Lucas's voice sounds concerned.

Jace responds immediately. *Of course, Lucas. Take care of your mate. Aria can stay with Gabriel during my matches.*

*I'm really sorry about this,* Lucas adds.

*Lucas, stop,* I cut in. *Eliana needs you. I'll be fine with Dad. Go take care of her.*

*Thanks for understanding.* The relief in his voice is palpable before the connection fades.

Jace squeezes my hand. "Ready to head to the arena?"

The ancient arena stands impressive in the morning sun. Warriors and spectators stream in from all directions. I spot Gabriel, Ethan, and Cal near the entrance, all straightening when they notice us approaching.

"Morning," Jace nods to them. "Gabriel, Eliana isn't feeling well, so Lucas is staying with her. Aria will be with you during my matches."

Dad's expression softens slightly. "No problem. I'll keep her safe."

Several Alphas approach us, including Marcus. They bow their heads slightly in respect.

"Alpha, Luna. Good to see you this morning," Marcus says.

"Alpha Marcus, likewise," Jace and I respond almost in unison.

Marcus glances around at the gathering crowd. "Word's gotten out that you're competing this year. Thirty-two Alphas have registered. Should be quite a tournament."

Jace gives a small smile. "Then we'll have our champion soon enough."

We take our seats in the elevated section reserved for pack leadership. Below, warriors prepare for the semi-finals, stretching and checking their equipment.

I lean forward, eyes fixed on the arena. "Cal looks focused," I whisper to Jace.

He follows my gaze. "Your father taught him well."

"He did." I can't help the pride in my voice.

The semi-finals begin with a blast from the ceremonial horn. Four warriors enter the arena in pairs. Cal faces a stocky fighter from another pack. They circle each other cautiously, testing defenses before engaging.

I grip Jace's hand tightly as Cal blocks a flurry of strikes. His opponent is fast, but Cal's defense holds firm. The fight becomes a dance of attack and counter, each earning points for clean hits.

With the score tied, Cal's opponent attempts a surprise attack. Cal sidesteps, grabs the man's arm, and uses his momentum to throw him to the ground. In one fluid motion, he pins his opponent, securing his final point.

"Yes!" I jump to my feet, clapping wildly.

Dad watches with quiet satisfaction from his position nearby. For a man of few words, his pride in his trainees speaks volumes.

Elder Thorn announces a thirty-minute break before the finals. I practically bounce in place.

"I'm going to find Cal, wish him luck," I tell Jace, already heading down from our seats.

Dad joins me as we weave through the crowd. We find Cal drinking water, his breathing controlled despite the exertion of his last match.

"That was incredible," I tell him. "Dad's counter-throw technique was perfect."

Cal stands straighter. "Thank you, Luna. It worked exactly as the Chief Guardian taught us."

Dad claps him on the shoulder. "Remember what I told you about conserving energy. The final match will test your endurance."

Cal nods seriously. "I'll remember."

"Your opponent in the finals is strong," I add. "He favors his right side. Watch for that opening."

Dad gives me an approving look. The fact that I noticed means his training paid off.

"It's almost time," he says, noticing people returning to their seats.

We hurry back to our places beside Jace. My heart pounds with excitement as the finalists prepare to enter the arena.

## JACE

The crowd settles as Cal and Henry enter the arena for the final match. I feel Aria tense beside me, her excitement almost palpable. She's more invested in this tournament than many of the warriors competing.

Cal looks composed, focused on the task ahead. Henry—a tall warrior from the Ravenwood Pack—carries himself with equal confidence. Both men have earned their place in this final.

They bow to each other, showing respect before battle. Elder Thorn counts down from three, and the match begins.

The warriors clash immediately, testing each other's defenses. Cal remains patient, waiting for his opening. When Henry overextends on an attack, Cal strikes with precise timing, scoring the first point.

Beside me, Aria makes a small sound of approval. I can tell she's analyzing every move, just as Gabriel taught her.

Henry becomes more cautious, circling Cal with new respect. They exchange several blows before Henry finds an opening, landing a solid hit to Cal's chest. The referee awards him a point, tying the match.

Both warriors reset, acknowledging each other with a nod. The tension in the arena thickens as they circle again. Cal sees his chance and strikes with a combination move, earning his second point.

I notice the desperation flash in Henry's eyes before he partially shifts—not fully wolf, but enough to enhance his strength and speed. Cal responds in kind, his features taking on the feral edge of his wolf.

The crowd roars as the two half-shifted warriors clash with renewed intensity. Claws swipe, bodies slam together. For a moment, it seems Henry might gain the upper hand.

Then Cal executes a move I recognize from training with Gabriel—a signature takedown. He feints left, then drops low, sweeping Henry's legs. As Henry falls, Cal pounces, pinning him with his full weight, one arm locked around Henry's throat.

The referee counts to three. Henry taps out.

"The winner of this year's Warrior Tournament: Cal from Moon Shadow Pack!" Elder Thorn announces.

The crowd erupts in cheers. Cal helps Henry to his feet, and they embrace in warrior respect.