Chapter 87. Sarcasm

Liam stepped forward again, raising his arm for silence. As soon as the arena quieted, his deep voice rolled across the gathering:

“The second test—physical strength.”

A ripple of excitement moved through the crowd. Warriors leaned forward. Elders whispered among themselves. Even visiting Alphas watched with keen interest.

This was the test that truly measured the raw power of future leaders.

Liam gestured, and several warriors dragged out two enormous moonsteel pillars, each thick, gleaming, and standing nearly twice the height of a grown wolf. Their weight alone made the ground tremble with each heavy thud.

Gasps echoed.

This was a test very few could pass without collapsing. Even seasoned fighters tensed at the challenge.

“These pillars,” Liam announced, “are forged to measure the raw physical capability of those who wish to lead. They weigh three times the weight of a fully-shifted warrior. Each participant must lift, hold, and carry the