Lyra POV

As the kid advances, her referee clambers into her post, waving at Lyra frantically to beckon her over.

Lyra walks over to the girl, leaning down so she can speak easily.

"Hello, Deputy Alpha. Thank you for allowing me to take this position. His name is Marcus, he's 17, and he is training under the Chief Warrior to take his place soon," the girl whispers and then pauses, looking around as if trying to remember something.

"And my name is Kate," she adds in the same calm tone, giving Lyra a small, nervous smile.

"Thank you, Kate," Lyra gives her a toothy grin before turning around and walking...