Werewolves can formally challenge Alphas for leadership of a pack. Traditionally, werewolves sent weregild: a challenge in the form of a killing an animal in the Alpha's territory and leaving it for them to find. By 1895, an inscription on the back of a calling card in blood or occasionally a slap with a bloodied glove was typical.[1] Thaddeus Monday's weregild was leaving human infants on the London Pack's doorstep.
A pack cannot interfere with a challenge between Alphas, save to hold the circle around the fight to contain it. The only one allowed to interfere is a pack's Beta, who can fight on behalf of their Alpha if needed. The pack as a whole will instinctively the winner of the challenge, regardless of personal feelings. Challenges rarely ended in death, although some wolves chose to end their lives at the teeth of an Alpha rather than allow themselves to slowly go crazy.[1] The challenge ends when one of the participants either submits or dies.
In the Books[]
Imprudence[]
Biffy avoids fighting a challenge with Conall Maccon, instead winning the pack through an agreement and a single punch. Channing, as Gamma, challenges the newly minted Alpha Biffy and concedes when he is defeated.
How to Marry a Werewolf[]
Thaddeus Monday challenges Biffy for control of the London Pack and Loses.
Quotes[]
"I am Lord Falmouth, Alpha of the London Pack. Do you wish to challenge my leadership, as you are a loner in my territory?" (Romancing the Werewolf, Chapter 8: Fight for Your Right to Pulpit)
References[]
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 Romancing the Werewolf, Chapter 8: Fight for Your Right to Pulpit