Mia POV
I reluctantly rose from the bed, feeling groggy from waking up much later than usual. Surprisingly, Atlas was nowhere to be found in the room, and his distinct scent was absent, indicating that it had been a while since he had been there. A pang of concern washed over me as I left the room in search of him.
After some time, I discovered him in one of the sitting rooms, fast asleep on the couch. The room was dimly lit, and a faint smell of alcohol hung in the air. A knocked-over glass and an empty whiskey bottle lay on the floor beside him. As I knelt down, the sharp scent of alcohol still lingered on his breath. Why would he come down and get so drunk after I had fallen asleep? A small part of me worried that I had done something wrong.

Gently placing my hand on his shoulder, I roused him from his slumber. He quickly snapped awake, his eyes meeting mine, and immediately grabbed his head, clearly feeling the effects of his indulgence. "Mia," he mumbled, his voice strained. "We need to get ready to go. It's already 11 am. I slept in, too," I confessed, not pressing him for an explanation about why he got drunk or slept away from me. I wanted to give him the opportunity to share if he wished.
Once fully awake, Atlas stood up, drawing me close to him for a brief moment before heading back to the room to get ready.
I walked into the kitchen, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee filling the air. Bryn, always prepared, had already made a cup for me. We had to leave for Alpha Jack's pack lands in twenty minutes. The anticipation of the upcoming fight made me feel excited it was a chance to showcase my skills. Bryn noticed my calm yet eager demeanor and complimented me on it.
"I've always been seen as someone to be used or feared," I told her. "But besides protecting my pack, I've never had the opportunity to prove that I'm a skilled warrior and leader. Finally, I have the chance to show everyone what I'm capable of. By winning this fight, I'll gain the support of the pack warriors. Word will spread to other packs, and they may offer their support or challenge me to earn it. I need to be seen as one of the strongest and a leader that my kind can look up to. This is crucial if Atlas and I want to build the future we've promised others. We aim to create a realm where hybrids, human mates, and even vampires who want to live among us are accepted. We will rebuild the lycan race as well."
"I can't wait to watch you today and fight by your side, Mia." Bryn replied. Just then, Atlas and Flint joined us, followed by Bram. Vampires were typically not allowed on pack lands, but since he was traveling with us, he would be safe. Now that he was part of our group, I wanted the other packs to see that we could coexist with other species.
We all made our way to the car. Atlas, usually more full of energy, was strangely quiet. I gently brushed my hand over his, feeling the warmth of his skin against mine. "I love you," I said through our link, allowing us to talk privately in the car.

"I love you too, Mia," he responded in my mind, his words filled with both affection and concern. His smile didn't quite reach his eyes, hinting at the underlying unease. Worried, I didn't want to push him, but the growing concern gnawed at me. "Tell me what's wrong," I urged him through our link, my voice laced with genuine worry.
"I learned some news last night that upset me," he confessed, his tone tinged with a mix of vulnerability and protectiveness. "But I don't want it to distract you during your fight."
My heart clenched at his words. I didn't want him to bear this burden alone. "It will stress me more if you don't tell me," I admitted, my grip tightening on his hand. Atlas took a deep breath and began explaining what Bryn had told him. I squeezed his hand, offering reassurance. "If they come after me, they'll regret it. I'll give them hell and survive. So please, don't worry too much. We're going to make it through this," I assured him, leaning against him for support.
As the car continued its journey, the tension in Atlas seemed to ease slightly. However, I knew the worry would linger until the ordeal was over. I couldn't blame him I would have felt the same if our roles were reversed.

Once we arrived at the pack, we were guided to a spot near the training arena where we could stay until the fight. Several warriors were assigned to watch over us and ensure our safety within the pack lands. Inara's voice filled my mind, her excitement evident. Even though this would be a fight in human form, she was ready to be my cheerleader.
Alpha Jack approached us, his enthusiasm palpable. If he were to win, he could proudly claim victory over a royal white wolf, a feat that would enhance his reputation. "May the best win," he declared, extending his hand for a handshake. A good number of his pack members gathered in the arena, eagerly anticipating the fight.
I took some time to stretch and prepare myself, mentally and physically. The announcement echoed through the air, signaling that it was my turn to enter the arena. Atlas embraced me one last time, his words filled with support. "I may not be fighting, but know that I am with you in spirit. Show them your fierceness and strength."
As I stepped into the arena, a hushed silence fell upon the crowd. Whispers and murmurs floated in the air as people observed me. I understood that part of the attention was due to my appearance. Not many in human form possessed purple eyes and white hair, making me stand out even before the fight began.
Positioning myself, I braced for the battle of strength. As Alpha Jacks Beta read the rules, his voice reverberated through the arena. “First one to admit defeat loses,” he declared, his words echoing. “This is a battle of strength severe injury leads to immediate disqualification. No special powers allowed.” A shrill siren pierced the silence, signaling the start of the fight. With lightning speed, Alpha Jack charged towards me, his movements precise and honed. However, my agility surpassed his as I effortlessly evaded his initial attack. Swiftly, I spun around him, landing a powerful punch that sent him stumbling backward. A surprised smirk played on his face, acknowledging both my unexpected strength and the newfound challenge that lay ahead.
As the battle raged on, a surge of adrenaline coursed through my veins, heightening my senses and sharpening my focus. With each punch thrown and evaded, the thrill of the fight intensified. My heart pounded in my chest, fueling my determination to prove my strength.
The intense exchange of blows between Alpha Jack and me left our bodies glistening with sweat, our muscles strained and defined. The impact of our strikes reverberated through the air, echoing the clash of our willpower. As we danced around each other, the excitement mingled with a sense of respect that grew between us. It was clear that this battle was not merely about physical dominance, but also about earning each other’s admiration.
As I landed solid blows on Alpha Jack, his face contorted with a mixture of surprise and amusement. He had underestimated me, and now he reveled in the challenge I posed. His strikes, though powerful, did not deter my resolve. I stood my ground, channeling my training and unleashing a flurry of relentless attacks.
The exertion of the fight took a toll on our bodies, breathing becoming heavy as we pushed ourselves to our limits. Yet, the fire within me burned fiercely, driving me to show my strength and earn Alpha Jack’s respect. The intensity of our clash was matched only by the determination in our eyes, each blow exchanged fueling our mutual understanding of the other’s capabilities.
Amidst the chaos of the battle, a bond began to form, forged in the crucible of physical prowess. The clash of strength and skill transcended the mere desire for victory, transforming into a mutual appreciation for the dedication and discipline required to reach this level of combat proficiency.
As the final moments of the fight drew near, I knew that I had given everything, leaving my mark on this battle of strength.
I swiftly spun around Alpha Jack, skillfully evading another one of his ferocious attacks. My strike landed with force, causing him to stumble and collapse onto the ground and hold his hands up in defeat. As he fell, a moment of silence swept over the crowd, as they processed their Alpha’s unexpected defeat. The spectators contemplated whether they should cheer for the stranger, the white wolf who had emerged victorious.
Extending my hand towards Alpha Jack, I offered my assistance to help him back on his feet. In a display of respect, he bowed his head and exposed his neck to me. The crowd watched in awe as he turned towards them, surrendering to my triumph. “I concede defeat,” he declared loudly. “Henceforth, our pack shall provide unwavering support to the royal white wolf, Mia. It will be an honor to stand by her in battle, and in return, we humbly request her aid when called upon.”
Once again, Alpha Jack extended his hand to me, this time with a different intention. “Fighting alongside you, Mia, has been a true honor,” he expressed sincerely. “You have exceeded all expectations, and my warriors shall stand by your side. May our alliance forge a strong bond, not only for our realm but for a better future.”
I turned my gaze to the side, and my eyes met Atlas's intense stare. Excitement radiated from him, and I could see it mirrored in the expressions of Bryn, Flint and Bram as well. Their eyes sparkled with anticipation for my victory.
"Tonight, a grand feast shall be held in your honor, Mia," Alpha Jack announced, his voice filled with enthusiasm. "You are all welcome, esteemed guests. Let us set aside our past differences as we forge this new relationship. This will be our first time hosting a witch, lycans, vampire, and a special wolf. But I am in agreement that it is time for a change. So, let us feast and discuss the challenges that lie ahead, preparing a solid battle plan. My Beta, Andrew, will guide you to your guest rooms in the pack house. Take your time to prepare, and afterward, I shall introduce you to our warriors."
"Thank you for your hospitality," I expressed my gratitude as I made my way out of the arena. We were then escorted to the pack house. "We will leave after the feast tonight, as we should stay to help build this relationship," I informed everyone, and they all nodded in agreement.
I retrieved a change of clothes I had packed in the car and decided to take advantage of the room's amenities, stepping into the refreshing shower. The water cascaded over me, washing away the sweat and grime of the battle. The steam filled the air, creating a soothing atmosphere. Atlas quietly joined me in the bathroom, choosing to sit just outside the shower. His presence was comforting, and even in the silence, I cherished having him by my side.
When I finished and emerged from the shower, I approached him, wrapping my arms around his strong form. "I may have trained all my life, but your support and strength were instrumental in my victory," I confessed, my words filled with gratitude. "I eagerly anticipate battling alongside you, Atlas, as we vanquish those who have sought to exploit us for far too long. They will learn their lesson for daring to mess with us." As I spoke, Atlas nuzzled his head against my neck, planting a tender kiss on his mark. "You are my forever," I whispered, savoring our fleeting moment of togetherness before we continued on to meet the warriors.