The Alpha's Fated Outcast Rise Of The Moonsinger novel Chapter 296

Ramsey

"A war council," I replied. "Comprised of those who actually fight, not those who only talk. Warriors, healers, strategists, people who are in touch with reality and not people who sit in their glass houses all day drinking wine. People chosen for their skills, not their bloodlines."

I turned to Lenny. "Prepare a list of candidates. Include representatives from the refugee packs—they know Nathan's strategies better than anyone."

"Yes, Alpha," Lenny replied, already making notes.

"This is not acceptable," Elder Silva protested weakly. "The council has existed since the founding of the White Mountain Region. It is the oldest union of this world."

"And now it's gone," I said. "You're all dismissed."

"So, you will deny us of our rights to participate in the affairs of our packs and this region for mere sentiments, Alpha Ramsey?" Elder Silva said.

"Yes!" I nodded. "Tell me, when was the last time the council advised me on anything that turned out good? Even after changing the previous council members with you all, I needed to surround myself with people I thought were good, but you are as bad as the previous council members."

"That's not true, Alpha..."

"This conversation is over," I interrupted him. "Leave, please... all of you. I don't want to be tempted to lock you all in the dungeons."

They filed out slowly, some glaring, others too shocked to show any emotion. When only my grandfather, Darius, and Lenny remained, I sank back into my chair.

"That was quite a performance," my grandfather said, his lips twitching.

"Not a performance," I corrected. "A long overdue change."

"Lyla's influence?" he asked shrewdly.

I considered the question. Was it her influence? Certainly, loving her had changed me, made me bolder, and made me less willing to compromise on what mattered. But this decision had been building for years.

"Partly," I admitted. "But mostly it's because I'm tired of half-measures. Nathan—or whatever he's become—won't hesitate. Neither can we."

Darius nodded approvingly. "The pack will follow you. The warriors already do."

"What about White Lake?" Lenny asked. "That was a serious threat you made."

"One I intend to keep," I said. "Send the message today. They have forty-eight hours to respond."

"And if they refuse?" my grandfather asked.

I met his gaze steadily. "Then I will send troops myself. I know Elder Thorne is sulking because I refused to marry his daughter again when I've made it clear that I have a fated mate. I don't intend to marry anyone else."

The three of them exchanged glances, clearly surprised by my aggression. I'd always been the diplomatic Lycan Leader who sought compromise. But that Ramsey couldn't win this war.

"Be careful, son; We cannot burn bridges at this critical moment. Warriors from the White Lake pack are the finest breeds of Warriors to ever exist, and Thorne knows this. Maybe he wants to be cuddled and begged…"

"Do I look like I'm in the mood to cuddle anyone who isn't Lyla?" I interrupted my grandfather. "He's your friend. You had best talk to him; otherwise, he'll pay with his blood this time. Every pack in the White Mountain Region belongs to me. I own their warriors, too; I should not be begging and cuddling to have my warriors come fight for me."