Chapter 4 Trust

He stood, pacing furiously. He couldn't save them now, not yet. But if he could win Draven's trust, climb high enough, he could change everything from the inside. That meant staying in character. Playing the game better than anyone.

A knock interrupted his thoughts.

It was Selena.

"You okay?" she asked, concern in her eyes.

James hesitated, then nodded. "I'm fine."

She didn't believe it. "You know... since the day you stepped into this place, I saw something in you. If you ever need help, know that I'll stand with you."

James met her gaze. Maybe she was more than just Draven's confidant.

"Let's walk," he said.

In the woods, he triggered a signal.

And a low, eerie howl cut through the stillness. From the shadows, a massive, battle-trained wolf lunged at Selena, its eyes burning with bloodlust. She barely had time to scream before it was upon her, but James tore into action, slamming into the beast mid-air. Claws slashed, teeth snapped, but he fought it back with fierce determination, planting himself between Selena and death.

Back at the court, they explained what happened to Draven. The Alpha listened carefully, eyes narrowing, then smiling.

"You risked your life for her," Draven said. "You've proven your worth. Ask for anything... wine, a woman, a house... even a slave."

James didn't blink. "The slave."

Draven paused. "What about the slave?"

"I want to be in charge of them. I want control over the entire slave camp."

"That's Varek's position," Draven said, surprised.

"I want it."

Draven grinned, impressed by the boldness. "Done."

When Varek returned and heard the news, the fury in his eyes was volcanic.

"You replaced me? With him?" he growled, barely containing his rage.

"I did," Draven said coolly. "He earned it. You'll answer to him now."

Varek turned to James, jaw clenched, eyes wild with wrath.

James stood tall, unmoved, steady as stone.

In that moment, Varek swore a silent oath. I will destroy you.

The court gathering was thick with tension, an unspoken storm brooding beneath formal expressions and stiff nods. Lord Varek's jaw was locked, his eyes dark with suppressed fury as he sat opposite James. They hadn't spoken, but their silence said enough. James could feel Varek's hate like heat rising off stone.

Draven stood and raised his hand. "Enough of the long stir, my friends," he said with a lazy smirk. "We all want the same thing,to keep the slaves in chains and this kingdom running strong."

His voice rang through the hall.

"Varek, for now, James will be in charge of the slave camps. At first light, take him with you. Show him the grounds. Introduce him as their new lord. Let them know their chains are still secure."

James didn't blink. Varek, on the other hand, looked like he might combust.

"This meeting is dismissed," Draven said, with a wave.