Defy The Alpha(s)

Chapter 134: Who Wants To Play Ball?

"What is that, and what are they doing?" Violet asked, her gaze fixed on a group of students who were carefully sliding claw-like frames with retractable prongs over the upper and lower jaws of the wolves.

Natalie followed her gaze and replied casually, "That’s a mouth gripper."

"Mouth gripper? Is that really what it’s called?" Violet repeated, her brows furrowing at the odd name.

Natalie pointed at one of the wolves being fitted. "Yes. It’s a tool that allows the players to securely hold and manipulate the ball in their jaws during the game. Pretty essential for Lycan Fangball."

Violet’s face twisted in concern. "That looks like it’s going to hurt."

Natalie gave a knowing smile, clearly amused by Violet’s reaction. "They’re werewolves, Violet. Pain is kind of their thing. Besides, the core frame is coated with a smooth layer to prevent injuries, and the parts that come into contact with their teeth and gums are lined with softly treated wolfhide leather for extra comfort and grip. The gripper is durable too, built to withstand the pressure of a game."

Violet gave her a skeptical look. "Comfort, huh? What about when they get tackled or slammed into the ground?"

Natalie said breezily. "Well, you don’t have to wear one, so no need to worry. Trust me, Your darling Alaric will be just fine."

That comment earned Natalie a sharp look from Violet, but the girl kept her expression straight and innocent.

Ignoring her, Violet focused on the staff member fitting Alaric’s mouth gripper. The device was remarkable—adjustable to fit various jaw sizes and seemingly intuitive as it molded itself perfectly to the shape of his mouth. She couldn’t help but be impressed by how advanced it was.

don’t know much about this sport,

"I’ve heard of it, but my school was all human. And our district doesn’t get much werewolf

her response still carried an edge of unintentional arrogance. "That’s... unfortunate. I guess I’m lucky to have been

It wasn’t Natalie’s fault she came from wealth, but hearing her speak so casually about it left a bitter

forced a tight smile

awkward silence followed, heavy

you in on everything

decline the offer. Natalie leaned in, her tone animated

they

nodded slowly, her curiosity growing

the Lunar Orb, and deposit it into the opponent’s pit while defending their own. The field—" Natalie gestured to the setup, "—is divided into two

is launched from a central pit at the start of the match and after each score. All players start equidistant from it, creating

running wild as she tried to picture it. "That sounds

motioned toward Alaric, "—is a runner. Runners are the fastest and most agile

form on the field. Pride swelled in her chest, though she tried

Hale," Natalie continued, "is a defender. His job is to protect the runner. Makes

muttered. "Griffin was born for