Disrespect
The first fight went down swiftly. Despite the injury from the other night, Damien won with ease. Everyone in the arena cheered for him, including Safira. She heaved a sigh of relief when he stood over the competing Alpha victoriously.
But as soon as he got back to the mansion, Beta Seth informed him that the wolf council wanted to meet with him at once. When he entered the room with Safira by his side, he was sure it wasn't to congratulate him on his first win.
"Alpha Damien, please be honest with the council," Elder Rosalie asked as she looked straight at him, "Were you injured prior to today's battle?"
Safira's expression remained unchanged as Damien gave his reply, "Yes."
Everyone else in the room tensed up at once. Safira knew who they were ready to point fingers at. Before the council members could say their piece, Damien gave his account of what happened.