“Because we must have order,” said Snap, the white-and-tan mongrel from the Wild Pack. “It’s not about whether you like it—a Pack can’t work without order. That’s how it’s always been.” She spoke reasonably, without anger or malice.

Mickey’s ears pricked up. “The Big Growl changed all the rules. Leashed Dogs are joining Packs, and Pack Dogs need to change too. Hierarchy doesn’t seem necessary—not anymore. It just makes things complicated.”

Lucky had rarely heard Mickey say so much.

Snap watched the Farm Dog, as though considering his words. But before she could speak again, Alpha sprang toward Mickey. Standing over the cowering black-and-white dog, he snarled: “The Big Growl is an even greater reason to stick to order and tradition. The world is more dangerous than ever. What we need is discipline, not some lazy group of ill-trained house-pets.” He lifted his muzzle, his yellow eyes cold.

Most of the dogs lowered their heads, careful not to challenge the half wolf. None of them spoke.

Alpha looked from each dog to the next, then glared at Lucky. “It’s time for the marking ceremony. Hold him down.”

Panic surged through Lucky’s body, his legs trembling and his paw pads growing damp with sweat. His eyes shot across the dogs, wondering who would launch the attack. Several of the Leashed Dogs whimpered, but they didn’t dare speak up for him anymore. Even Bella, who had risen to her paws, said nothing.

Sweet broke forward. Lucky yelped in dismay as she pounced at his back, hugging his shoulders with her paws and bringing him down. His shoulder smacked the earth and a twinge shot through his injured leg. His body crackled with fear and panic. Sweet was stronger than she had been when they had escaped the Trap House. Snap leaped forward to assist Sweet, slamming into Lucky and helping to keep him pinned down. Lucky whimpered as Sweet’s teeth sank into his neck.

“Relax,” she whined as he kicked and twisted beneath her. “It will be easier for you if you don’t struggle.”

Lucky’s heart thumped faster in his chest but for a moment he froze, seized by panic and confusion. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw the Leashed Dogs cringe. Sunshine started barking in her shrill yap. Martha looked away with an unhappy whine.

Bella found her voice again. “Please let him go; this isn’t fair! What is the point of injuring him so badly that he can’t hunt or shield us from attack? What good will that do any dog?”

Alpha growled impatiently. “None of an Omega’s duties are so honorable. I won’t cause him any serious injury.” His lip curled as he approached Lucky, who started to thrash again, fighting against Sweet and Snap. “Just a good bite. Something he will never forget.”