Chapter 18: The Shattered Mate Bond

The collision of the two Alphas was not merely a contest of strength, but a violent clash of two different interpretations of pack law. Wesley represented the ancient, primal bond maintained by absolute power and possession; Theron showcased a new kind of bond, polished by civilization but centered on benefit and control. Yet, to Emilia's wolf, Alicia, both had strayed from the true essence of the mate bond bestowed by the Moon Goddess—a unique, indivisible resonance of souls. 「They are both fighting for territory, not guarding a mate,」 Alicia howled mournfully within her. 「Wesley sees you as marked property. Theron sees you as a rare trophy worth collecting. Neither understands the meaning of 'the one'.」 Watching the fight erupt over her, Emilia felt sick. Wesley's every attack was fueled by a violent possessiveness, as if tearing into a rival who had encroached on his territory. Theron's counters were precise and cold, defending his claim over a prized artif