Morning light spilled over the Silver Crescent Pack grounds as I yanked open my wardrobe. Today wasn't a day for frilly dresses or Luna finery. I needed something practical, something I could move in. My hands found what I was looking for - simple black leggings, a fitted gray tank top, and lightweight combat boots.
"Are you sure about this, Miss Seraphina?" Lyra asked, hovering nervously by my bed. "The Alphas might not like you going to the combat ground."
I pulled my hair into a tight ponytail. "The Alphas don't control every move I make."
"They think they do," she muttered.
I smiled grimly. "Exactly why I need to remind them otherwise."
As I dressed, I tallied the money I'd been secretly saving from the Luna allowance. Nearly enough to hire a discreet investigator from a neighboring pack - someone who could look into my father's case without raising suspicions here. The combat grounds would be a perfect distraction today while Elina made inquiries in town.
