-------------------------------------------------------------------
***THIS NOVEL IS SOLELY PUBLISHED ON WEBNOVEL. LEGAL ACTION WILL BE TAKEN IF THIS IS RECREATED OR REPUBLISHED WITHOUT WRITTEN CONSENT OF THE AUTHOR***
-------------------------------------------------------------------
PAUL
We all gathered in the movie theatre which was located in the basement of the pack house. Instead of chairs, there's 20 King size beds with backs and armrests instead of head boards. In the back is a buffet, snack bar and soda machine. We used to hang out here all the time. When Ryan's business picked up, we stopped coming so often. Edward and I were fixing plates for us and Penny when the Betas came in. "Like old times huh?", smiled Sophia. I nodded. "But I think it'll be better this time with my mates close by.", I said giving Edward a kiss. "This is just what we need. Time to bond with our new members and reconnect with one another without having a to do list.", said Sophia starting to fix her plate. Corey was making a fresh batch of popcorn. "You and Ryan don't have to be cuddle buddies anymore.", he laughed setting up the buckets. "Sounds to me like someone wants to run drills before training in the morning.", said Ryan walking into the theatre with Eva behind him. "Cuddle buddies? Wouldn't want to break tradition.", smirked Eva. "You too sis?", I asked. She giggled. Corey chuckled fixing the first bucket of popcorn. "Someone's looking to get spanked.", said Ryan looking down at Eva who was now blushing. I laughed loudly. Penny walked up taking the plates from me. "Don't forget Luna. Give as good as you get.", she said winking at Eva. Eva giggled again, "For human mates everywhere!", she said. They both laughed and Penny carried the plates to our spot. We all stood there looking at each other confused. "You had to be there." said Eva starting to fix her plate. Edward grabbed utensils and started to follow Penny. "Hey, Ed. Eric and Erica are coming right?", asked Ryan. "They thought you meant High ranking members only.", he said. "Family bro. They're family. This is Family time. Tell 'em come through.", said Ryan. "Will do.", smiled Edward no doubt happy his twin would be included. Mark and Amy came in saying their hellos.
I got our drinks and headed down to sit with my mates. "You are going to love this. We eat and watch movies all night. Like a big slumber party. We haven't done this in over a year.", I said. "I love it already! This reminds me of a theatre I've seen in the human world. I always wanted to go to one.", said Edward. "This is my first time in a theatre since I was a teenager. The beds instead of chairs is a nice touch.", said Penny getting comfortable. "I'm happy I get to experience this for the first time with both of you.", said Edward. He leaned over and kissed Penny deeply. Her arousal hit my nose a few seconds later. Watching them and smelling Penny, pulled a low growl from my chest. Just as I was about to join in, Ryan interrupted.
"Please keep in mind that these beds are for cuddling only! If you want to get busy, please head to your room or elsewhere.", he said staring in our direction. Penny's face was a bright red. Me and Edward couldn't help but chuckle at how cute our mate looked. "Tonight is Nerd Night. Say aye for the movies you want to watch. We have Interstellar wars, The Friendship of the Chain, and The Larry Scotter series.", he announced. Larry Scotter got the most votes. Just as the opening credits started, Eric and Erica came in. They fixed their plates quickly and took the bed next to ours. "Busted being a bad girl, huh Penny?", Erica teased. "Ed started it.", said Penny looking like a kid that just got reprimanded by their parent. We all cracked up. We settled in and enjoyed each other's company. It was the perfect night after such a stressful event.
-----------------------------------------------
The next morning, I woke up to Ryan sending us a mindlink. "It's 4:30 am. Time to start getting ready for training.", he said. Edward looked over to me, "Can't we skip training today?", he asked. "Sorry,babe. Three days on, one day off. Those are the rules. Besides, Penny, Erica and Amy have to learn how to defend themselves. They especially need to train being our mates and not being wolves. They're the most vulnerable if we ever get into a war.", I said. Edward's expression grew dark. "Just the thought of someone trying to hurt her...", he said. "I know babe. We're not always going to be there to protect her. She has to learn to fight in order to protect herself.", I said. "And my family.", she said pulling our arms around her. We kissed our precious mate good morning and started heading upstairs to shower and change.
Edward and I threw on sweat suits because it was raining. Mine was black. His was light grey. I wore my blue sneakers and Edward wore his red ones. Penny wore a dusty rose pink sports bra with matching spandex shorts. She put on a black cut up tee shirt with black running sneakers. Edward and I watched her while she was brushing her red hair into a ponytail. "No.", she said. "But we have time.", said Edward walking towards her licking his lips. He leaned over and licked her marks. She shivered. "No.", she said with less conviction. "I have to be on time today. Rita is training us personally and the last thing I want is to have to run laps after having to take you two on.", said Penny trying not to enjoy Ed's hands moving over her body. "Come on, Ed. Don't tease her. Let her get to training on time.", I said trying to hide my hard on. Penny finished fixing her hair and we were off to the training grounds.
On the way, out we bumped into Eva and Ryan on the stairs. "You ready to get these gains?", asked Eva excitedly to Penny. "Hell yeah!", said Penny giving Eva a high five. Me, Ryan and Ed smiled at them. "We have warrior mates.", said Ed. "Damn straight.", I said giving Penny ass a smack. Eric and Erica were already at the training grounds talking with Mark and Amy when we showed up. The ladies said their good mornings and headed out as the Betas and Gammas showed up for training.
--------------------------------------------------------------
***THIS NOVEL IS SOLELY PUBLISHED ON WEBNOVEL. LEGAL ACTION WILL BE TAKEN IF THIS IS RECREATED OR REPUBLISHED WITHOUT WRITTEN CONSENT OF THE AUTHOR***
--------------------------------------------------------------
Mark and Justin walked up to the sparing platform. "Good morning Moon Lake pack!", shouted Mark. The crowed quieted down. "Allow me to introduce Sensei Justin. Today some of you will be starting combat training with him.", he continued as he paced with his hands clutched behind his back, looking over the audience. "You will learn hand to hand combat such as Karate or Kung Fu for the next two weeks. It will be challenging but we always strive to be the best and do our best. We only have one instructor at the moment. So the high ranking members and the generals will be trained first so that they can teach the Lieutenants and the Lieutenants will train the rest of the warriors and warriors will train their family. There will be a demonstration held in one months time to show what you have learned. DO NOT SLACK ON THE QUALITY OF THE TRAINING! IF YOU OR YOUR STUDENTS ARE NOT UP TO PAR THEN THE TRAINING WILL START OVER! YOU WILL NOT ADVANCE UNTIL YOU ARE PROFICIENT IN WHAT YOU'VE BEEN TAUGHT!", he shouted with a serious stare. Mark stopped pacing and lowered his voice. "Generals please step forward.", he said. 30 wolves and she-wolves stepped forward. "Follow Sensei Justin.", he said gesturing towards Justin. "Sable will lead the rest of you in regular training. Follow her lead and work hard.", he said as Sable jogged to the front of the pack of warriors. "FALL IN!", she shouted. Four lines formed quickly. "Everyone on me.", she said as she started to jog towards the treeline.
RYAN
We followed Justin to the Gymnasium where Rita was training Amy, Erica, Penny, and Eva. As we approached the building, we saw Janet coming wearing sea green workout gear with her blonde hair pulled back into a ponytail. "What a nice surprise to see you out and about. How are you?", I asked smiling. Janet looked a little nervous but still approached our group. "I'm doing better, Alpha. Thank you for asking.", she said with a small smile and bow. My group entered the building leaving me and Janet outside the front doors. "Are you here to join Rita for training?", I asked. "Yes. Penny told me about your policy for pack members and I think it's a good idea. She asked me to join them before. I finally worked up the courage this morning. She said you would be okay with it. I hope you don't mind.", she said her voice growing smaller with every word. I smiled and said, "Not at all. In fact it might help with the mental health part of your recovery. Knowing that you can defend yourself will bring you more confidence and security. I want you to feel safe here. This is your home and you are one of us." I said in a gentle voice. She smiled with tears in her eyes. She gave me a tight hug and said, "Thank you." I squeezed her back and said, "You are very much welcome." I kissed the top of her head and she released me smiling. I held the door open and she walked in. She waved then continued to the second floor.
I walked down the hall of the first floor towards the back of the building where Justin had set up a dojo. I opened the door and Justin was standing to the right watching everyone stretch and warm up. "How do you like your space Sensei? Do you need anything else for training?", I asked as I walked in and removed my sneakers. "For what we are learning right now we have what we need. but if the pack learns quickly, I will need more equipment.", he said. "Just let Mark know.", I said. I walked over to Paul and started stretching my arms and back. Since he is closest to my height, we helped stretch each others legs.
Once we were done, the training began. We learned how to punch properly and how to block properly. Since we all had some hand to hand training this part wasn't that bad. We all advanced quickly to the next stage. Kicking. This was harder. Sophia and Shayla picked up on it the quickest as did the other female generals. The men had a harder time but towards the end we had gotten better. As today's training was coming to a close, Justin stood in front of the dojo and said, "Strength is important but accuracy and flexibility is equally important. Please stretch your legs for the rest of the day. You should stretch for an hour at least three more times today. Ladies, since all of you are pretty flexible already, I want you to practice your punch and kick combos. Gentlemen, you must work hard to catch up with them before the end of the week. Overall, all of you have done well and I am impressed with your advancement. You are all dismissed.", said Justin bowing. We bowed in return and started to put our shoes back on outside of the dojo doors.
"That was intense.", said Caleb. "It was but I like it.", said Corey. "It was a great idea to add this to our training regimand.", said Shayla. "We got lucky finding Justin again.", I said. My expression grew dark. "My father has done some serious damage to this pack. I'll never be able to apologize enough for his actions. His arrogance and thirst for power has hurt a lot of families in our pack. I'm happy and honored that Sensei Justin agreed to train us. He had every reason to refuse.", I said. Paul patted me on the shoulder and said, "You are a great Alpha. You're actions show that you care for your pack and the Werewolf community in general. I don't think you know just how well respected you are. You can and have undone the things your father did while he was Alpha. Just keep being who you are. Everything will work out the way it should.", he said giving me a reassuring smile. "Enough of the mushy stuff.", said Sophia rolling her eyes with a smirk, "Let go eat." We chuckled and headed out. Amy, Erica, Penny, Eva and Janet were standing in front waiting for us.
"Hey ladies. How was training?", I asked with a smile. They were covered in sweat. I know Rita worked them hard today. "Tough,", said Janet, "and AWESOME!", she finished with a wide smile. I chuckled and said,"Glad you enjoyed it. You're welcome to join us for breakfast.", I said. "Thanks but we have to finish setting up the apothecary and get to work on making more pendants for the pack.", she said. "Part of working out is proper nutrition. I can give you a hand afterwards.", said Eva. Janet looked hesitant. "I insist. You will be safe with us.", said Paul holding Penny's hand. Janet looked around at all of us then smiled. "Ok. Let me go shower and change. I'll meet you all at the pack house. "I'll go with you.", said Penny. They looped arms and headed for their cottage. The rest of us headed towards the pack house.
----------------------------------------------------
***THIS NOVEL IS SOLELY PUBLISHED ON WEBNOVEL. LEGAL ACTION WILL BE TAKEN IF THIS IS RECREATED OR REPUBLISHED WITHOUT WRITTEN CONSENT OF THE AUTHOR***
----------------------------------------------------
EVANORA
Since I offered to help with the apothecary, I dressed in a long all white dress, white slip and bra. Penny told me once that it's best to be grounded when doing witch work and that one of the easiest ways to do that is to wear a dress with no underwear and be barefoot. I honestly felt weird not wearing underwear but I don't want to be a hindrance to them. I washed my hair and let it air dry. My afro was massive. I took a white scarf and wrapped my edges pulling my hair back off of my face. I put on my amulet and stepped out of the bathroom. Ryan was dressed wearing a green tee and grey basketball shorts. He was tying up his black sneakers when he looked up at me. His eyes filled with lust and his mouth dropped open. "Later. I have work to do.", I smiled. "Lovely, you look amazing.", he said. He rushed to his feet and wrapped me in his arms. I giggled. "You should wear your hair like this more often.", he said kissing my mark. Tingles and shivers ran through me. My eyes rolled back and I nearly succumbed to his seduction. "No! I have work to do. We can "play" later.", I said pushing away from him. He groaned dropping his shoulders. "Okay. Remember we have two meetings this afternoon. We have to leave by 2pm.", he said.
We walked downstairs and everyone was eating and having easy conversations. When I sat down at the table slowly conversations died down and all eyes were on me. It made me feel a little exposed. "Luna, you look amazing!", said Shayla. "I had no idea your afro could get that big." said Sophia. "You should wear your hair like that more often.", said Paul. "I told her the same thing.", said Ryan. Penny smiled and said, "You look like a true witch." Janet agreed with a mouth full of french toast. "Thank you. Believe it or not, my hair is a lot to manage. That's why I either wear it straight or in a bun.", I said. "I get it.", said Shayla, "I constantly blow out my hair so I don't have to deal with it. I can't remember the last time I wore my afro out." I scrunched up my face at a thought. "We have a salon upstairs. Can we get a stylist to come in?", I asked. "Yeah. I'll get my guy Dimitri to come in.", said Ryan. "Can he deal with Black hair?", I asked. "Yeah. Dimitri is trained in all hair types. He has a shop on pack lands not too far from Mimi's boutique.", said Ryan. "Awesome. Instead of him coming here I can go to him. I need a deep conditioner and trim.", I said to Ryan. "Then we can explore the shopping area on the pack grounds. Let's make a girls day of it. Who's in?", I asked. All the ladies at the table nodded. "I'll have Dimitri set up for all of you. My treat.", said Ryan. I smiled and kissed him on the cheek. "I love when you spoil me.", I said smiling. We finished eating our breakfast then me Janet and Penny headed out. Erica and Amy offered to join us. Penny told them what to put on and where to meet us.
-----------------------------------------
We walked into the ranch style house that was next to Penny's cottage. It was completely empty save for the shelves that lined every single wall holding jars full of various herbs and roots. There were even jars with bones, feathers, skins of different animals. I looked around and said, "Ooookkk... Not gonna lie, kinda creeped out right now.", I said staring at a jar of cats eyes. "Don't be. One thing you should understand about magick is that it's neither evil or good. It's all in how it's used. We collect ingredients from animals that have already passed on. We don't take life. We value it. Save it. Nurture it. We recycle all that we use and all that we find. We respect Gaia and her gifts to us.", said Janet. That put me a little more at ease. "Come let's go to the meditation room to help ease your nerves before we start.". said Penny. I followed her to one of the bed rooms off to the right of the living room.
She opened the door and I was floored. It was filled with different crystals of different sizes and shapes. In the center of the room was a huge amethyst crystal with pillows on the floor surrounding it. The scent of white sage and frankincense lingered in the air. Sunlight poured in through the open window. The smoke that lingered in the air mixed with the sun rays making the room look ethereal. There was light music playing and a few candles lit around the room. The atmosphere was so relaxing. Erica and Amy showed up dressed in blue and green dresses with nothing on their feet. "Please settle in and we will get started.", said Penny. We all picked a pillow and sat with our legs criss crossed. Penny led us through a guided meditation to clear out our chakras and negative energy.
Once we were done, we went to the kitchen to find an older woman setting up the materials we will need for the task ahead. She said, "I'm nearly done putting things in place. If we work diligently we should clear 500 bef...", as she turned and looked up at me her voice caught in her throat. I got nervous and started to rub my hands over clothes thinking I may have worn the wrong color or type of dress. "I'm sorry if I'm not dressed properly. I can buy a new dress..", I stopped when I saw that she was crying. "Did I do something wrong?", I asked Penny. She looked just as confused as I was and said, "No, not at all. Minerva? Are you okay?" Penny and Janet approached Minerva, stopping by her side with concerned looks on their faces.
"You look just like your father.", said Minerva in a shaky voice. My father? "You know my birth father?", I asked in disbelief. "Yes, honey. He's my son.", she said. My eyes went wide. "Y-you're my Grandmother?", I asked. My adoptive Grands were passed on before I came along so I never knew what it was like to have a grandparent. "Grams?", my voice broke. She rushed up to me and hugged me tightly. I hugged her in return. She pulled back and cupped my face with both hands. "I thought you were dead. When your father came to me barely clinging to life, I knew you and your mother were in danger. When we found your mother she had already been gone for a full day and you were nowhere to be found.", she said through her tears. "Wait. My father... is alive?", I asked breathlessly. She smiled with tears still streaming down her face. "Yes, honey. He is living with the High Witch Vera. He's safe.", she said stroking my face. She hugged me tight and took a deep breath. "Evanora, I am so happy we found each other. The Moon Goddess is showing you favor, my dear.", said Minerva kissing my forehead. She smiled at me so sweetly. I examined her face. I could see similarities in her features to mine. The cheek bones, chin and face shape. She really is my Grandmother. I held her close and inhaled her scent. Spearmint and tomatoes. I released her from the embrace and looked around at the other ladies in the room. Not a dry eye in the place. I laughed at us and said, "Hallmark moment." Everyone chuckled and Amy and Erica came and gave me hug. They knew how much this meant to me. "Grams, these are my best friends. We grew up together. This is Amy and Erica.", I said gesturing to them. "It's an honor to meet you ma'am.", said Erica. Amy smiled and nodded in agreement. "Please, call me Minerva or Grams. Whichever makes you comfortable.", said Grams smiling at them.
"Now, we have time to become better acquainted later. Right now we need to make more amulets for our pack.", she said moving towards the table. "We are blessed to have so much love in the room at the moment. It will help to make these amulets strong in their purpose. Please line up ladies.", said Grams gesturing for us to join her. She laid out the materials in front of us and said. "First we start with the amulet base. We take this flat piece of silver and etch a small triple moon sign on it at the bottom and say 'Goddess Selene I ask for your blessing. Work through my hands to create this protection.", she said using a small chisel and hammer. "Then we spray it with this blessing spray and say 'I wash this clean in preparation, for your moonstone to hear all adolations.", she said while wiping off the blessing spray with a small white cloth. "Then we add the moonstone to the center. Try to find one that cradles into the center nicely. It shouldn't be forced. Then say 'I lay this stone to strengthen the connection between you and the bearer without interruption.'", she said nestling a moonstone in the center and bending the grips in place to hold it. She added a black wax necklace and said "Protect your child from magical attacks and speed their healing so they snap back. Your humble child begs you to hear this plea. The amulet is complete. So mote it be.", said Minerva holding the amulet in her palm. The moonstone glowed momentarily. "And that's how you know the Moon Goddess has heard you.", she smiled looking down at what she created. "It is a simple but powerful protection spell. While creating, keep the feeling of love in mind and the desire to protect the one who will wear it. Try your best not to focus on any specific person. That way anyone from the pack can wear this and benefit from the magic imbued in the amulet.", said Grams. We nodded and got to work.
Even though it wasn't particularly physically taxing, it did take a lot of energy out of me. It was close to noon when Grams said,"Good work ladies. Believe it or not, we made 678 amulets today. That's a big number. With the 300 we came with plus these, that's 978 amulets in total. We just made a small dent in the 30,000 we need.", she smiled at us. We smiled back but felt a little discouraged. "We're going to need more hands. The six of us will take forever to complete what's needed.", I said. "We don't want the quality to decrease just to increase productivity.", said Janet. "Oh no. That wouldn't happen. One thing I noticed about everyone in the pack is that everyone strives to be the best and do their best. Not just for themselves but for each other. I think having more hands to help wouldn't affect the quality at all.", I said. "Four more women should be enough.", said Grams looking to Janet. "I'm fine, Minerva. I ran into Alpha Ryan this morning and he assured me that this is our home and we are safe with the wolves here.", said Janet. Grams still looked worried. "I'm not 100% but I am better, Minerva. I promise.", said Janet reassuring her. I smiled at Janet. "I'll find more people to help out. If anyone makes you uncomfortable, just say the word and I'll get rid of them. No questions asked.", I said. Janet smiled and nodded. "Well I'm off ladies. Grams, if you have time later tonight I'd like to stop by and talk if that's ok?", I asked rising from the table. "Of course, child.", said Grams. I walked over to grams and gave her a quick hug and a kiss on her head. I smiled at her and cupped her face with one hand. "I can't believe we found each other.", I said and placed another kiss on her head. She leaned into my hand smiling up at me. I turned and said my goodbyes to the others and rushed out the door to get ready for the meetings.
-----------
RYAN
Eva came back and told me about Minerva and her father as we were getting ready. I was shocked. I thought Minerva reminded me of Eva but I shook it off as coincidence. Not only did she find her grandmother but discovered her father is alive and well. She asked me to send out official notices to the High Witches Olea and Vera about wanting an alliance and to invite them and their Covens to her Luna ceremony. I, of course, complied. It seems my little family is getting bigger and bigger by the day. I couldn't be happier.
Eva and I went to our meetings after lunch. We renewed our contract with Darcy and met with Corrine whose office was luckily ten minutes away from Darcy's. Corrine signed a 5 year contract with us to be the exclusive supplier of all equipment and for my company to help promote her studio to magazines, and modeling and music agencies.
We were in the back of the SUV cuddling up and dozing off. 'We're being followed.', said Paul through mindlink. I snapped my eyes open. 'How many cars?', I said. 'Two SUVs full with men. They've been following us since we left Corrine.', said Paul. I sat up casually and looked at Eva. She heard the mindlink but was as cool as a cucumber. I kissed her deeply and said, "Open your legs, my lovely." She smiled and slid her legs open. I ran my hands down her body she kissed me deeply again playing along to what I had in mind. I reached under her seat and pulled out a S&W 9MM and handed it to her. I then pulled out a submachine gun and slipped it to Paul. I pulled out a second 9MM for me. We all cocked our guns and took the safety off. 'They pulled up next to us.', said Paul. Eva straddled me and kissed me deep again. She ripped open her shirt exposing her bra. It was a bright turquoise color. It made her breasts look even more alluring. I couldn't help but get hard. 'Bad' timing lovely.', I said. She told Paul, 'Roll down the window.' He hesitated and she said, 'Trust me.' The men in the SUVs next to us were shocked. They couldn't keep their eyes off her. She grabbed my hand and put it on her left breast and she sat back to make sure they had a good view. They all gawked and Eva smiled at them. 'Now!', she said. We opened fire on both SUVs. Eva took out four guys in the truck next to us including the driver. The SUV swerved and crashed into the railing. Me and Paul fired at the one on our right hitting all occupants. That SUV swerved and hit the wall. It slowed down then stopped. Paul started to drive faster. "That was so hot!", she said smiling. I kissed her and said, "You're a great shot, my lovely." She smiled and said "Lots of practice.", she said. "Those trucks had the royal emblem on them. How did they know where we were?", Paul asked. "My father has a lot of spies in the human world. It could have been anyone.", I said setting Eva back on the seat. "Let's hurry and get back to the pack house. We're too exposed out here.", I said. Paul nodded and raced down the highway. "We'll be home in 15 minutes.", he said. "Keep your guns at the ready.", I said. Eva loaded her chamber and put the safety back on to button up her shirt.
We were only five minutes away when we were swarmed by rogues outside of our border. 'Mark. send warriors to the north entrance! Rogues are attacking us!', I said. They hit the windows and tried to turnover our truck. Paul swerved through the swarm as best he could. He was forced to come to a stop 100 feet from the border. 'We're going to have to make a run for it.', I said passing out extra clips and taking one for myself. The rogues surrounded us but weren't attacking. We looked out our windows at the crowd surrounding us. A tall figure moved through the crowd. The rogues around us parted making room for the figure to come into view. "Did you think I would walk away? Did you think I would just let you ruin my plans without consequence?", asked Maximus stepping out of the crowd. "Bring them to me!", he said. Rogues rushed the SUV pounding on the windows and windshield. Eva's window shattered and she started shooting immediately. Each shot took down a rogue. When she had to reload, Paul started shooting. My window shattered and I took aim. I hit the five rogues that were protecting my father. I aimed and missed him as he ducked and backed into the crowd. As I tried to reload, hands reached in and tried to pull me from the truck. Eva jumped on top of me and started shooting at whoever touched me. She emptied her clip and Mark shouted "Protect the Alpha and Luna!" Warriors in both wolf and human form attacked the rogues.
I jumped out the car with one mission. To catch and kill my father. I ran in the direction where I saw him, trying to catch up. Nothing. Before I knew it, my anger lead me deep into rogue territory. "Are you lost pup?", asked a snarling voice behind me. "Not at all. I'm hunting the wolf who misled you to attack me.", I said calmly. "So you're his son. He honestly thought it would be difficult to separate the two of you. Your temper has betrayed you pup.", said the rogue with a sick twisted grin. 'Eva!', I said to myself. I looked around and was surrounded by at least 20 rogues. It would be difficult but I could take them. I released my Alpha Aura and started my attack. I took out 10 by the time more showed up. "I will not go down easily!", I shouted grabbing one by the head and slamming him into the ground feeling his skull crack in my hand. Onyx roared at the sensation. He joined me and said 'Let's make them regret waking up today.', he snarled licking his chops. We attacked them. Ripping limbs, breaking necks. We were drunk with rage. We slashed and growled. Tearing through flesh like it was paper. Very few got hits in. Some scratched or punched me. I didn't feel any of it.
There was one rogue left amongst the bodies trembling with fear. Paul's wolf Aegis came to my side with several other wolves from my pack. 'Take him to the cells for questioning.' I said through the mind link. I had injuries and didn't even notice. I fell on my knees exhausted. Aegis was a large wolf. Nearly as big as Onyx. He slipped under my arm and said, 'Climb on Alpha. I'll take you to the pack hospital.' I mounted his back and said,"Just take me home. I want to be with Eva." He got up lifting me off the ground and charged forward to the pack house.
Eva, Shayla and Sophia were in front sitting on the steps all looking worried. I must have looked worse than I felt because they all looked at me horrified. "It looks worse than it is.", I said sliding off of Aegis. I gave him a pat and scratched behind his ear saying, "Thanks brother." He bowed and began to shift back into Paul. Eva ran up to me wrapping me in a tight hug. I groaned at the pain and she released me quickly. She started ripping of my blood soaked shirt looking for my injuries. When she noticed the injuries were minimal, she looked up at me confused. "It's not my blood lovely.", I said. I was worried about what her reaction might be. She looked me over and took a step back taking in what I said. She looked at her hands and started to shake. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath. Her hands steadied. "Served them right for attacking us.", she said opening her eyes, "Let's go get you cleaned up." Eva took my hand and led me upstairs.
After a long shower and some tlc by my mate, I was already starting to heal. I was healing faster than normal thanks to my amulet. Eva helped me dress. I could've done it by myself but I was enjoying her pampering me. She was so gentle with me it made me adore her even more. 'Meet me in my office.', I said in the mindlink to my Betas, Gammas, and Deltas. I pulled Eva close and said, "I look forward to becoming Ryan Hollows-Silver." She looked up at me surprised and asked, "You would really take my name?", I kissed her softly. "Of course. There's no way I would give my father the satisfaction of having grandkids with his name. We will honor your parents and have their name live on. They deserve it for bringing such a blessing into the world and raising you to be the amazing person you are and the kick ass wolf you're becoming. I love you so much Evanora and I can't wait to be your husband.", I kissed her with all the love and passion I have for her. The world fell away for a minute. There was no one but us. No crazy father. No Crimson Throne. Just us.
There was a knock at the door, popping our little love bubble. 'Reality intrudes.', I thought to myself sighing. I pulled back from the kiss, rubbing her arms. "Come in.", I called not taking my eyes off of her. "We're ready for you Alpha, Luna.", said Caleb. I sighed again, staring in my lovely's emerald eyes wanting to crawl back into our love bubble. "Come my love. We'll have dinner in our room tonight. Just us.", she said pulling me towards my office. "I'll bring the chairs from Luna's office. Now that there's so many of us, you're going to need a bigger office Alpha.", said Shayla patting Ryan's arm with a smile looking at Paul and his mates. I nodded looking over the room. "It is kinda crowded in here.", I said.
---------------------------------------------------------
***THIS NOVEL IS SOLELY PUBLISHED ON WEBNOVEL. LEGAL ACTION WILL BE TAKEN IF THIS IS RECREATED OR REPUBLISHED WITHOUT WRITTEN CONSENT OF THE AUTHOR***
-----------------------------------------------------------
Eva and I made our way to my desk. I sat down and pulled her into lap. "So my crazy father attacked us with rogues. I recognized one of them. I saw him a few times on our morning runs. I think these rogues live close by and my father is paying them to keep tabs on us.", I said. "He must be paying them an awful lot to risk war with us.", said Corey. "Why would my father risk attacking us? Cynthia is long gone.", I said. "He could have been trying to get Eva. She jumped out and they forgot I was even there. I think they tried to lure you away so that they could kidnap her. They didn't count on her being so badass.", said Paul. "What happened after I left?", I asked. "Mark and the warriors showed up. After you chased after your father, Eva jumped out the car to go after you. Another group surrounded Eva and tried to drag her away. She fought them like a true Warrior. Throwing punches and kicks like a mad woman. She held them off long enough for warriors to break through and surround her. We fought them back and Mark brought our Luna to the pack house.", said Paul. "So he was going after Eva.", I growled pulling Eva closer. She leaned in exposing her neck. I buried my nose and inhaled calming myself.
"What's our next move?", asked Sophia. "We need to make the Luna ceremony happen sooner. Two weeks. Send out the invites to our allies and neutral packs tomorrow.", I said. "We should get married too.", said Eva. Everyone looked at her surprised. "We can always have a wedding at another time but for now let's just make it official. With everything that's happening I don't want to wait.", she said looking at me. I was kinda hoping for a large wedding. "Are you sure my lovely?", I asked. "Yes. Completely.", she said. "Okay since we're having a large wedding later on, let's keep this wedding ceremony small. Private. Just our family. We'll go get the marriage license then have the ceremony in the rose garden.", I said. She smiled at me so sweetly, my heart skipped a beat.
"So once the Luna ceremony is done, if your father tries to abduct her again, we have the right to challenge him.", said Corey. "I think it's best we keep a low profile until the Ascension. The Royal Guard has about 20,000 warriors. We don't have enough warriors to challenge him. Let's just focus on the ceremony. If I can prove to the Temple Elders that my father attempted to kidnap or kill my fated mate, I can request a challenge between me and him. It would save lives on both sides.", I said. "Ready to interrogate the captive?", asked Paul with a sick grin. I nodded and kissed Eva's cheek. "We'll leave you ladies to deal with the details of ceremony.", I said. I kissed Eva again before she slipped off my lap. Penny, Shayla, and Sophia kissed their mates then the ladies left to go to Eva's office. "Let's go.", I said to the guys and we headed out to the cells.
PAUL
We walked over to the entrance of the cells that was hidden in the tree line. The cells were built underground close by a patrol house. There's only one way in or out. Two guards were stationed by the entrance with two more in the patrol house and two more further back in the woods in case the prisoner tried to escape. The guards bowed in acknowledgement of our arrival as we opened the door and started down the stairs to the cells.
The lights are purposely dim in the holding area. This room is designed to lower all five senses and to make the occupants lose sense of time. The closer we came the stronger the scent of damp leaves and mildew became. Rogues live in the wilderness. Some live shacks or abandoned houses but the longer they are without a pack the more feral they are. Ryan opened the door to the holding area and we followed him in. The rogue was held in the first cell. He was malnutritioned as most rogues are. His ribs were showing and had no body fat. His muscles were lean and slight. Ryan opened the door trying to give him a paper bag that contained a steak sandwich, some fruit and a gatorade before sitting on the chair opposite of the bed. The rogue's eyes were completely black showing that his wolf was in control.
"I need to speak to your human side.", said Ryan still holding out the bag of food. The wolf growled. "We do not take orders from you! And we don't want your food!", said the rogue turning away from Ryan to eye the rest of us. I'm sure he was sizing us up, trying to think which of us he could take on. He shrank back knowing he can't win. "I really want to be civil about this. My father is the type to threaten and intimidate. I don't want to do that. I believe the civil approach is the best approach. No one gets hurt and we can both get something we want or need.", said Ryan offering the bag of food again. The rogue visibly relaxed some. "He will kill my family.", said the rogue. Ryan tilted his head with equal parts of confusion and surprise on his face. The rogues eyes changed color. They were a light brown now.
The prison looked around seeing that we all had the same expression so he started to tell us his story. "I was born a rogue. My father ditched me when I was 8 after my mother died. I haven't seen him since. I learned how to hunt and scavenge to survive. I fell in with a group of rogues around 16 and found my fated mate. We have two pups now. I hid them but your father will find them and kill them if I tell you anything.", he said. Ryan looked thoughtful. Caleb stepped forward. "We can bring them in. But because they're rogues we would have to keep them here with you. However they would be fed and protected.", said Caleb. A small spark of hope flickered in the rogues eyes before it died out. "I can't voluntarily lock my family up. Where they are isn't much but it's better than a cell.", he said. "I would try my best to make them comfortable. Clean clothes, a bath, food, but I need information from you.", said Ryan.
The rogue thought about it. He looked at the bag of food then around to all of us. He nodded then slowly reached for the bag of food. Ryan handed it to him and asked, "What's your name?" The rogue ripped open the bag and laid it out flat like a tablecloth on the bed. He spread out the food on top of it. "My father named me David but I renamed myself Jace when I met my mate.", he said. "May I ask why?", said Corey. Jace took a bite of his sandwich and said "David means beloved. Since my father abandoned me, it felt false. You don't abandon something or someone that is beloved by you. I felt angry and broken for a long time. When I met her...", he trailed off and smiled at his thoughts, "I felt whole again. Healed. So I named myself Jace which means to heal.", he said. He took another bite and said, "I don't want this rogue life for my family. My mate is brilliant and kind. My pups are smart and strong. They deserve a pack.", said Jace.
He looked to Ryan and said "If you bring my family here and promise to make us pack members, I will give you all the information you need to know. I hold no allegiance to anyone anymore. Just them." Ryan looked around at us. "Why are you so quick to jump ship? Rogues don't normally want to join packs.", I said. Jace took a deep breath after downing half of the gatorade. "Rogues don't have an Alpha but that doesn't mean we don't run in packs. My pack was the ones who attacked you. I'm sure a few got away but this guy killed all the leaders.", said Jace gesturing to Ryan. "I'm what you would call a General. I gave orders to those under me from those above me. I sat in on the meeting with the soon to be King. He made a lot of promises to us.", said Jace. "Like what?", asked Ryan. Jace looked him in the eyes and said, "He was going to bring us into the Royal Guard. Give us a home. Become our Alpha so we could stop rotting away. Food, shelter, and a promise of riches. I knew he was lying but the others salivated and clung to every word that spilled from his poisonous lips.", said Jace with a disgusted sneer.
"How is it that you could tell he was foul but your leaders couldn't?", I asked. Jace looked at me and said plainly, "He reminded me of my father. Plotting, scheming... for his own gain. Others be damned.", said Jace. Ryan smirked, "Sounds like Maximus alright." Jace was finishing up his food when he said, "Bring me my family. I'll tell you all what he has planned and what connections he has in your pack.", said Jace. "We got rid of his spies.", said Corey. "Only a few. There are still a few that weren't kicked out. He's not done. Not by a long shot. If you want to thwart his plans and keep your Luna safe. Bring me my family. I'll tell you everything he has planned." said Jace. Ryan looked at me. 'Do you believe him?', Ryan asked in the mindlink. I stared Jace in his eyes and said, "You do realize that if you're lying, we'll kill you, right?", I asked. Jace nodded and said, "You have a warrior by the name of Octavius. He is Maximus' illegitimate son. He holds a grudge with you because you grew up in the pack house while he and his mother lived in a small two bedroom apartment. His mother was always taking care of you and neglecting him. You have money when he has none. His mother is..." Ryan interrupted, "Mrs. Jones." We all had surprised looks on our faces. This gave Jace confirmation that he had valuable information. "The safe word for my family to go with you is 'cucumbers'. Plural. If you say cucumber they will try to kill you. They're response is 'Blue velvet'. They're in a small house in the woods 45 miles west of your border.", said Jace cleaning up the garbage from his meal. "Bring them back and I'll tell you more.", he said handing the garbage to Corey. Ryan got up and walked out of the cell locking it behind him. We all filed out and headed back to the pack house still shocked by the news.
---------------------------------------------------------
***THIS NOVEL IS SOLELY PUBLISHED ON WEBNOVEL. LEGAL ACTION WILL BE TAKEN IF THIS IS RECREATED OR REPUBLISHED WITHOUT WRITTEN CONSENT OF THE AUTHOR***
---------------------------------------------------------
EVANORA
Erica and Amy joined us to organize the Luna ceremony. Amy contacted her parents to get advice on how to put together an "engagement party" when we were planning before. When Amy told her the timeline was moved up, her parents insisted on coming out to handle the event themselves. They hopped on the first plane to Michigan. Amy and Erica are going to have the "talk" with them when they arrive.
Sophia stood up and recovered a box from one of the cabinets behind the desk."I know this sounds nuts but I bought these the day after Ryan said he found his fated mate. I hope you like them.", Sophia said smiling. She handed me the small brown cardboard box. I opened the box and pulled out a delicately decorated blank invitation. It was off white in the center and the border was lavender with silver vines interwoven around the edges. "I love them! how did you know my favorite color is purple?", I asked. Sophia shrugged saying, "I guessed. You seem like a feminine girl but not a frilly one. Frilly girls usually like pink or yellow." All eyes darted over to Erica. "What? Pink is awesome.", said Erica defensively. We all chuckled. Amy stood up, taking the box from me and placed it in the center of the table. She started handing out pens saying, "Okay, Ladies. Here are some black pens and the list of names provided by Sophia." Amy placed the list next to the box. "We have 70 invitations to write out and send. There are 100 blank invitations in total so if you mess up we have more. We'll claim the names from top to bottom going clockwise around our circle starting with our Luna. When you're done cross out the name and write your initials next to it.", said Amy.
Erica and I looked at each other then over to Amy with smirks on our faces. "You just totally pulled a Candice.", said Erica. I nodded in agreement. "No I di...", Amy stopped talking reviewing her behavior. Amy threw her head back laughing, "You're right!". Me, her and Erica laughed hard. The others looked a little confused. Amy tried to regain her composure. She put her hands on her knees and tried to take in deep breaths as she spoke. "My Mom. This is just a preview of what we have to look forward to over the next two weeks. She is very organized and precise when it comes to event planning. Even if a disaster strikes the client will never know." I looked at Shayla and said "FYI: She's going to want to interview the wait staff. She has her standards of service. She'll hand pick them for specific jobs. I don't know how she does it but everyone ends up happy. Even the staff. She's strict but respectful." Shayla smiled and said, "A woman after my own heart. I'll have the Omegas ready." We worked quietly and quickly. All 70 invites were done in an hour. Shayla took the envelopes and said, "I'll send these out ASAP."
"While you go get your parents from the airport, I could go to Mimi's and check to see if there's anything there for the wait staff. Are any of you free to join me? I need to get out. My nerves are shot from earlier.", I said. "I have more work to do on the amulets. Wish I could.", said Penny. "Speaking of which, I have Sable, Rita, and five Omegas that are willing to help you with those. They volunteered three days each.", said Shayla to Penny, "I was planning on going too but if you really need some company, I'll come with you, Luna.", said Shayla to me. "Oh no. The amulets are important. My mood is out of whack otherwise I'd come too.", I said. "The Coopers are having some trouble with the construction on the new addition to their house. I have to go iron some stuff out but I can join you after.", said Sophia. "Oh ok. Well, don't rush. I'll just head over and take my time.", I said. Sophia pulled out a piece of paper and drew a quick map for me to the boutique. I thanked them all for their help and they filed out of my office.
I went to my bedroom to shower and change. I laid out my outfit on the bed. I set out a teal shirt with my black fitted jeans and my teal chuck taylors. I walked over the bathroom and started to undress. I stood in front of the Mirror and examined my injuries. I had some scrapes and bruises but nothing serious. I've never been in a fight before so I knew I was going to be sore. "I'll soak tonight.", I said. I took my time in the shower. I used my milk and honey body wash and wet my afro so I can style it differently when I got out. I shut off the water and grabbed my towel. I dried off a little then used my cocoa butter on my skin. I put on a pair of white boy shorts and a matching cotton bra. I used some leave in conditioner and put some quick braids on the side of my head and fluffed up the rest of my fro. I got dressed, grabbed my purse and headed off to explore the shopping center.
---------------------------------------------------------
I walked around the lake and through the meadow towards the shopping center. Mimi was by the door ready to welcome me with a vodka cranberry in hand. "Hi Luna!, I heard what happened today and figured you need this along with the retail therapy.", she said passing me the drink. "Yes! Much needed!", I said taking the drink and knocking half of it back. Mimi rubbed my back and said "Yes, Luna! Let's get something fabulous on you." Her boutique was GLAMOROUS! The walls were painted a powder blue. There were two wall sized gold framed mirrors on each wall. In the front were casual clothes. Men's clothes to the left and women's clothes to the right. The racks of clothes became more sophisticated as you walked down the aisle towards the back of the boutique.
She led me to her tailoring area that was on the left of her stock area in the back. "I have pulled some Items that I thought you might like, but before we get to those, I want you to feast your eyes on these designs.", said Mimi gesturing to three large cork boards. The first corkboard has materials of soft blues, greys and silver attached to it. The dress was very elegant and revealing. To me it screamed sex and femininity. The second had materials of pinks, corals and gold attached to it. This dress was form fitting but not as revealing as the first. It was sensible but still sexy. The last dress concept was perfect. It was blood red. It had lace and see through materials attached to the board. The neckline plunged below the belly button and dangerously close to my flower area. the back was the same. There were long slits up the front over each leg. There was a train that had roses from the tip of the low back to the bottom of the dress. I imagined myself wearing it. This dress was dangerous, feminine, screamed sex and commanded attention. It was made for a queen. "Ahhh.. I thought that one would catch your eye.", said Mimi. I turned to her with a wild look in my eye. "This is the dress. It's perfect. The only suggestion I have, is for it to go from red to black. Like an ombre. Is that possible?", I asked. "Of course Luna. That definitely adds to the danger aspect of the dress.", said Mimi with a wicked smile. "That idea inspired me. I'll draw up some concepts and bring them over in the morning for a final decision.", she said obviously mulling over designs in her head.
She shook her head snapping herself out of her thoughts. "Now, for the serve staff. Since you're going with the red dress, how about we make them wear colors close to what you're wearing. I was thinking wine colored tops with black ties, skirts and slacks. Flat mary janes for the ladies and loafers for the men.", said Mimi. "That sounds perfect.", I said finishing my drink. "Now, let's do some damage to my bank account.", I said handing her the empty glass as I headed for the racks of clothing.
-------------------------------------
RYAN
We walked back to the pack house in silence. Mrs. Jones was everything to me after my mother died. I had no idea that Octavius was my half brother. Why would she hide that from me? We could've been closer. I wondered why he was always so angry towards me. Why he would look so hopeful whenever my father walked through the door. I always thought it was adoration for his Alpha, but now I know he was seeking approval of his absent father. Octavius hardly came to the pack house and when he does, we don't speak. So, since Donald is dead, the only way he could be getting information about my whereabouts is through... "Ma...", I said. I stopped in my tracks at the realization. No one looked surprised. I guess they came to the conclusion faster than I did. They looked at me with sympathy. "I can't...", I said not able to speak the words. Paul put a hand on my shoulder and gave it a slight squeeze. "We'll handle it.", said Caleb. Corey mindlinked Mark letting him know what was going on. We started walking again. I was numb. I didn't realize we were in my office until Paul told me to have a seat.
Moments later, Mrs. Jones was brought in. The look on her face told me everything. "Sit.", I said softly. She didn't speak. She moved to one of the chairs in front of my desk. I looked at her without saying a word. Tears flowed freely down her face. The door opened and her 3 sons were brought in. They lined up behind her chair. I looked at all their faces. Only one of them didn't heavily resemble my father. I looked back at her. "After my father left, why didn't you tell me?", I asked. She bowed her head. "He told me not to.", she responded in a shaky voice. "All this time I had brothers and no one said a word. Which ones are blood related to me? .", I asked. She looked to her boys. I could tell she was thinking of a way to keep at least part of her secret. "Don't make the mistake of lying to me, Mrs. Jones.", I said. She looked at me and bowed her head, "All of them.", she responded. I could tell this was news to the two oldest (Andrew who was 29 and Sloane who was 28). Octavius didn't flinch at the news. "You don't seem surprised Octavius.", I said. "Father told me years ago.", he said with disdain in his eyes. "When did he tell you?", I asked. "When I was 8. He told me he loved our mother more than yours but couldn't be with us or her because of you. Being that you were to be the next Alpha and future King he had to focus his attention on you and could never claim us as his children.", he said with fury in his voice. I looked at Mrs. Jones and tried to piece together the puzzle. Andre was born before my mother was married to my father. Mrs. Jones was pregnant with Sloane when they married and Octavius was born right before my mother died. "Are you my father's fated mate?", I asked Mrs. Jones. She looked at me wiping tears away. "Yes, Alpha.", she said softly. I sat back and thought for a moment. "Did you kill my mother?", I asked. She bowed her head and nodded. "SPEAK UP!", I yelled making everyone in the room jump. She looked at me with fear in her eyes. My rage wouldn't let me care. "Yes, Alpha.", she said clearly. "Why?", I asked calmly. "We couldn't be together because of her. She stole my mate and my place in the pack. She became Luna while I was left to being an Omega. I carried the Alpha's sons and was treated as a servant! Watching her hosting parties and being adored by everyone. That was supposed to be me! Then he came to me and said he could never see me again because she was starting to suspect him cheating. I was pregnant with our third son and he was leaving me to be with her! Me and my boys had to live in the shadows so that you and that prissy bitch could shine in light! It wasn't fair! So I poisoned her. I watched the light leave her eyes and savored every moment!", she spat. I remained calm. "So why did you raise me after she died?", I asked. "To keep your father close. I thought he'd make me his Luna if I showed him what a good mother I was. But he had his eyes set on that tramp Cynthia. When I figured out that he needed you to marry her, I knew what it meant if you did. He'd be King and I would be Queen. So he had me keep tabs on you and Octavius would report to him. Andrew would have become Alpha and my boys would be taken care of.", she said with that same look my father has when speaking of gaining power. "I don't want to be Alpha. I never knew about any of this Alpha Ryan. I am loyal to you and our pack.", said Andrew. "Same here Alpha. This is my first time hearing all this. I am loyal to you and our pack.", said Sloane. "Is that true?", I asked them. "ON OUR HONOR.", they said together with their fists on their hearts. I nodded in their direction. "My father uses people to gain power for himself and no one else. YOU are supposed to be the person he loved most in the entire world and yet he used you for his own personal gain. He knew telling you he was leaving you would force you to do something drastic. He murdered my mother, you were simply the weapon. Same with you Octavius. You were the weapon he used to try to kill your future Luna. I'm sorry both of you fell for his lies.", I said. Octavius and his mother both looked at me with fury. "I loved you just as I loved my mother. I never could have imagined that you would hold such hate for me.", I said to Mrs. Jones. I looked over to my brothers. "I never knew you were my brothers. Growing up, I adopted Paul, Caleb and Corey as my brothers because I longed for that bond. I longed for family. If I would have known, things would have been different for all of us.", I said allowing one tear to fall. I stood up and wiped my face. "Andrew and Sloane. I am going to be honest with you. Given the situation I'm not going to force you to leave. You had no hand in any treachery. But I understand loyalty. Your mother and... our brother have committed treason against me, my mother and our pack. You know the punishment for that don't you?", I asked them with a calm tone. "Death or exile.", answered Andrew. I nodded. "If you choose to stay, we will be brothers. You can continue to live your lives in the pack. If you choose to leave, I completely understand. I will help you find a new pack and send you with money to get settled. However, the crimes committed can't be forgiven. The hatred for me imbedded in them by our father is dangerous. Neither of them can be allowed to live after the attempt on me and my mate. They will be executed." My voice broke on the last sentence.
Andrew and Sloane looked at them visibly broken hearted. They knew this would be the last time they see them. "I love you both. And I loved us as a family. We had eachother. Greed led you to this. Not love.", said Sloane. He stepped away from them but not leaving the room. Andrew spoke next. "We always talked things out as a family. You two decided this for yourself and I don't stand behind it. You both hid the fact that we have another brother and you both plotted against him for personal gain. I don't even want to be Alpha. Maximus never intended on making you his Queen. He rejected you years ago. And Octavius? He doesn't love any of us. Not even Ryan. You sacrificed yourselves for nothing." Andrew turned and Octavius attacked him. Me, Paul, and Caleb moved to separate them losing focus of Mrs. Jones. She pulled a small paring knife out of her pocket and stabbed me four times before Paul grabbed her and I dropped to my knees. Caleb had Octavius pinned down on the floor next to me. I felt dizzy. I touched my back and looked at my hand. My palm was covered in blood. I looked at Paul who was struggling to pin down Mrs. Jones. He made eye contact with me and his eyes went wide. Andrew rushed across the room and grabbed his mother while Sloane rushed to my side. Mrs. Jones sliced Pauls chest. Andrew yelled and threw his mother over the desk. She Recovered quickly and jumped on the Desk. She attempted to slash at my throat. Sean pulled me back in time. He fell back with me on his chest. Mrs. Jones jumped down off the desk. She moved to stab me as a pair of hands gripped her head and twisted it backwards. Everyone looked up in shock. It was Andrew. Octavius screamed, "NOOOOOO!! MOM!!!" as Mrs. Jones body fell to the floor.
Paul moved quickly grabbing a bottle of water out of the mini fridge and rushed to my side taking out a vile from his pocket that had a brown powder inside. He dropped the powder into a bottle. "Moon Goddess Selene, hear my plea, Your child is in desperate need. Heal his wounds and make him whole. Shimmer these herbs with your magic glow. I humbly ask this of thee, so mote it be.", said Paul. The bottle began to glow. A bright white light filled the room for 3 seconds. He had me drink some of the elixir and he drank the rest. I watched as the scar on Paul's chest began to heal and slowly close. In about two minutes his skin was back to normal. A few minutes later, I felt my body healing. Soon I was fine. Paul and Sloane helped me up off the floor. Sloane moved to Andrew's side who was staring at his hands. "YOU TRAITORS! FATHER WAS GOING TO MAKE US STRONG! WE WOULD HAVE RULED OVER THIS PACK AND THE ENTIRE EMPIRE! BUT YOU CHOOSE TO GROVEL AT THE FEET OF INSIGNIFICANT WOLVES! YOU KILLED OUR MOTHER!", screamed Octavius. "YOU are not our brother. We never would have condoned this. Your misled need for revenge on Ryan got you here. He was used by father just like you were. He's not the cause of your misery. YOU ARE!", screamed Sloane as he slammed his knee into Octavius' face. He grabbed Octavius by the head and broke his neck. A loud wail echoed through the room as Sloane fell to his knees. It wasn't my intent to have them kill their family members. I moved to Andrew and looked him in the eye. He was still looking at his hands. I don't know if he even registered what just happened to Octavius. He looked up at me and said,"I'm so sorry, brother. We loved you even before we knew the truth. We would never have moved against you.", said Andrew. "I'm sorry it came to this.", I said. I wrapped Andrew in a tight hug. He cried aloud and fell into me but I didn't let him fall. I held him tight, "I got you, brother." He regained his composure after a few minutes and I turned my attention to Sloane who was still on his knees by Octavius' body. I touched his shoulder snapping him out of his trance. Sloane turned and looked at me. "He wouldn't have stopped. He would have found a way to destroy our pack. It needed to be done.", said Sloane in a low voice. He rose to his feet and looked me in the eyes. "It was never my intention for things to happen this way.", I said. A tear fell from Sloane's eyes and said "I know. You loved them just as we did. After Donald, were you really ready to do what needed to be done?", he asked. I bowed my head ashamed to admit it. "No.", I said softly. Sloane stepped closer and hugged me. "We are loyal to you, brother. We are loyal to our pack and will do what's necessary to protect it.", said Andrew. Sloane released me from the hug and nodded in agreement. Paul and Caleb removed Mrs. Jones and Octavius' bodies from the room. I was still in disbelief over what just happened. "What now?", asked Sloane. I looked at him and Andre. My brothers. "It's up to you. What do you want?", I asked them. They looked at each other then back to me. "We would like to stay with the pack but we would like a new home. Living there... it never felt like a home. Now we know why.", said Sloane. I looked at Andrew who nodded in agreement. "I'll speak with Sophia about finding you a new home. In the meantime you can live here at the pack house on my floor.", I said. I looked at their faces more closely. Sloane definitely has my father's nose and grey eyes. Andrew had his face shape and lips. He more resembled Mrs. Jones but did have some of our father's features. "You're really my brothers.", I said in a low voice. "I wish we had figured this out sooner. A lot of pain could have been avoided.", I said. They nodded in agreement. "Let's get this over with so we can move on with our lives.", said Andrew. He headed for the door and Sloane and I followed.
--------------
We walked to the edge of the training grounds where Mrs. Jones and James were being placed on top of the cremation pyre. Hardly anyone was in attendance because I wanted to respect the privacy of my brothers. They had a right to mourn their loss in private. As per tradition, the pack members in attendance turned their back on the rising flames. One by one, members started to walk off as the flames began to die down. Me and my brothers were the last to leave. We headed to the pack house in silence.
-------------------------------------------------------------
EVANORA
I bought clothes for everyone but I mainly focused on Penny, Janet and Minerva. I mostly bought them casual dresses and placed an order specifically for tunic dresses in different colors for them. Just as I was finishing up, Sophia walked in. "Hey Luna. I see you definitely got your retail therapy on.", she said looking at the huge piles of clothing behind me. I smiled and said,"Yup! Since you're here you can pick out a dress for the Luna ceremony. Mimi has a fabulous selection of evening gowns.", I said gesturing to the back wall lined with gowns. "Better yet, Mimi can you bring your gown collection to the pack house so all my girls can pick out their gowns?", I asked slightly inebriated. "Of course, Luna. How's tomorrow morning?", she asked. "Perfect.", I said. I turned to Sophia whose eyes were white. I shrugged and went back to my drink examining my purchases. Mimi started bagging up the clothes by the person they were for and writing names on the bags. There were fourteen bags in total. "Maybe I went a little overboard.", I said with a chuckle. Sophia came up ready to give me a report. I held my hand up, "If it's not good news, I don't want to hear it.", I said stopping her from speaking. She nodded and closed her mouth. "How are we going to get all this back to the pack house?", I asked. "Mark is coming with the SUV and the twins to escort us home.", said Sophia. I looked at her and said "It's that bad huh?". She nodded so I knocked back my drink. I lifted my glass to Mimi. "One for the road?", I asked. "Yes. Of course Luna.", she said with a slightly worried look on her face taking the glass and fixing me another drink. Sophia grabbed most of the bags and carried them to the front of the store. Mimi wanted me to take everything for free but I insisted on paying. As we haggled back and forth i took large swigs of my drink. She insisted that I at least accept a 50% discount. We finally agreed and I payed for everything including my Luna dress and dresses for the girls. Just as I was taking the receipt, Mark pulled up and hopped out with urgency. Sophia stopped him and explained that I didn't want to know what was going on just yet. He and the twins nodded and entered the store. "Your ride's here Luna.", said Mark. "Did you buy out the store, Munch?", said Edward looking at the bags. "I wanted to.", I laughed and finished off my drink. The guys loaded up the truck as me and Sophia hopped in the back. The guys hopped in and we headed back to the pack house.
-----------------------------------------------
PAUL
Eva, Sophia, and the twins walked in the house carrying bags full of clothes. "Wow.", I said seeing the bags and Eva's state. She was beyond drunk. I looked at Sophia. 'Did you tell her?', I asked in the mindlink. 'No. She wouldn't let me.', said Sophia. 'Okay. I guess Ryan will have to then.', I said. An Omega named Laura approached Eva and asked, "May I take these bags from you, Luna?" Eva nodded and said "Yes, please. Each bag is labeled with a name. Please have them taken to their owners.", said Eva. The Omega smiled slightly and bowed. Her eyes went white then returned to their natural color. Four more Omegas came in and took the bags then dispersed in different directions. "I'm starving.", said Eva heading to the kitchen. I hurried behind her.
She walked to the fridge and took an apple. "You need to eat some bread to help soak up some of the liquor. Sit. I'll make you a sandwich.", I said. Eva smiled gratefully and sat at the island biting the apple. I moved about the kitchen in silence putting together a chicken sandwich with all the fixings. Just as I placed the bread on top Eva asked, "Where's Mrs. Jones?" I stopped in my tracks and looked up at her. Before I could answer, Ryan walked in still wearing his bloody T-shirt with Andrew and Sloane behind him. Eva smiled before she noticed the blood. She jumped off of her stool and ripped his shirt open to check for wounds. "I'm fine, my lovely.", he said taking her hands into his. "What happened?", she asked looking at him sobering up some. He took a deep breath and led her back to the island stool she hopped off of. He took the seat next to her and gestured to his brothers to join them. "Some things have been brought to light about Mrs. Jones and my father.", Ryan began. He told her the story and introduced his brothers. Eva was dumbfounded. He left out who handled the executions. She walked over to Andrew and Sloane. "I am so sorry for your loss.", she said genuinely. She hugged them and thanked them for protecting Ryan. They hugged her back. She smiled at them and said "They do look like you, love.", turning to Ryan. Ryan smirked and nodded. "I know.", he said proudly. Eva returned to her seat and started to eat. "We might need a bigger house.", she said jokingly. But I could see that Ryan took it seriously and was already working on a plan.
----------------------------------------------------------------
COREY
I took three of our strongest warriors and set off to find Jace's family. I didn't let them know where we were going just in case one of them were with Maximus. After about an hour of walking we approached a small shack that was covered with vines. It looked abandoned and unless you were looking for it you would miss it. The vines helped it blend into the surrounding foliage. I called out. "My name is Corey Matthews. I'm a high ranking member of the Moon Lake Pack. I was sent by your mate and the Alpha of my pack to retrieve and protect you." There was dead silence. I approached with my hands in the air. "I don't have any weapons and mean you no harm. Please come out so we can talk.", I said. The front door of the shack opened and a slender woman in tattered clothes stepped out with a bow and arrow at the ready. "This arrow was soaked in wolf's bane. Stay where you are.", she said shaking. She looked at me and the other warriors who stayed about 20 feet behind me. "What's the password?", she asked taking aim at my heart. "Cucumbers." I said clearly. "And yours?", I asked. She softened her look but never lowered the bow. One of the children ran out and said "Blue velvet." Her little voice brought a smile to my face and I nodded in acknowledgement lowering my hands. She looked to be about five or six. A little boy came out. He looked to be about ten. "Where is our father?', he asked. "He's safe on our pack land. He's waiting for your return.", I said. The woman lowered the bow taking a breath. "I'm Anita. This is Cody and Savannah. Is he in trouble?", she asked me with worry in her eyes. I nodded. "We are working things out. Bringing you to him is a part of our agreement.", I said. She looked at the other warriors carefully. She took aim and shot the warrior in the middle. He fell to his knees. "He's with Maximus. I saw his picture when I cleaned up after their meeting. There are seven more.", she said. I turned and looked at the warrior who was spitting up blood and holding his chest. I wasn't surprised he was a spy for Maximus. Red was always jealous of Ryan. I finished him off by snapping his neck. "Since you took out one of the warriors, you'll have to take his position on the way home to protect the children. Do you have more arrows?", I asked. She grabbed a quiver full of arrows from behind the door. I nodded. "Stay in the center of all of us children. If something happens, keep the sun to your back and run in that direction.", I said pointing in the direction of our pack lands. Cody and Savannah nodded and held each others hands. One of the warriors led the way. Anita was to the left of the children, the second warrior to the right and I took up the rear. We started out with our heads on a pivot constantly checking our surroundings.
By sunset, we made it to the border of our pack lands. I mindlinked Caleb letting him know I was back. He told me to take them to one of the refugee houses that has already been set up for them. I led them to a small house close to the cells where we held Jace. He was moved to house shortly before we arrived. There were four warriors posted around the house to not only protect them but to make sure Jace and his family didn't leave. I opened the door and they walked in. Jace was cleaned up and wearing new clothes. He looked completely different from a few hours ago. His brown hair was neatly combed and his hazel colored eyes seemed brighter. He cut his hair to the top of his ears and shaved. He reminded me of Theo James. Aside from the obvious malnutrition, you would never know he was a rogue. His family looked better fed than he did, which told me he gave them everything he found to eat and only ate enough to keep himself going. This is odd behavior for rogues.
He turned to me and said, "Thank you for bringing them to me safely. These are the names of the other spies in your pack." He handed me a piece of paper. I read the names. Red was the third name down. I nodded. "Thank you. If you need to speak with one of us, just let your protectors know. They'll be right outside.", I said to Anita and Jace with a knowing look. They nodded and turned to each other smiling and held each other tight. I turned to leave and Savannah hugged my leg. I looked down at her and smoothed her hair. She smiled up at me and said "Thank you, Mr. Corey." I smiled back and said, "You're welcome, sweetheart." She released me and I headed for the pack house.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
***THIS NOVEL IS SOLELY PUBLISHED ON WEBNOVEL. LEGAL ACTION WILL BE TAKEN IF THIS IS RECREATED OR REPUBLISHED WITHOUT WRITTEN CONSENT OF THE AUTHOR***
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RYAN
Eva left me and my brothers to bond and get better acquainted. She went to see her grandmother and check on the progress of the amulets. Andrew, Sloane and I sat and talked for about an hour. We shared memories from when we were kids and talked about the future. They haven't found their fated mates yet. Andre started dating a shewolf named Jamie recently and is considering making her his mate. Sloane, like me, wants to wait for his fated mate. I didn't realize how much we have in common. I'm mad that I missed out on so much time with them. I felt cheated.
I instructed some Omegas to help my brothers pack up their belongings and move them to the other bedrooms on my floor of the pack house. I know Eva was joking but we do need a bigger house. I want our family under the same roof as us. The main thing all of us have in common is that family is important to us. I want our pups to have a strong family and all the support they'll need to rule successfully.
I went upstairs to shower and change after me and my brothers finished our conversation. I was emotionally exhausted by the past couple of days. I just wanted to lay in the tub and wash it all away. I got to our room and began to strip as I headed towards the bathroom leaving a trail of clothes. I filled the tub with hot water and climbed in. I settled back and thought about Mrs. Jones, Octavius and Uncle Donald. Tears flowed freely. I have never experienced this level of betrayal before let alone from those so close to me. I loved them. I turned off the water once the tub was full and just tried to relax. I must have drifted off because I woke up to my lovely planting soft kisses on my face. She was naked straddling me in the tub. My hands instinctively gripped her hips. She sat back and I looked at her face. She looked at with with sympathy in her eyes and said, "I'm so sorry my love. I know how much Mrs. Jones meant to you." I wrapped her in my arms and held her close. We sat in silence for I don't know how long. She rubbed my back and I cried quietly. I now understood how Eva felt when asked me to make her feel good. I kissed her deeply with tears still running down my face. I pressed her body hard against mine. Feeling her breast on my chest felt so good. I moved my hips under her making my shaft rub on her flower. She moaned lightly into my mouth moving her hips in sync with mine. She reached down and took my meat into my hands. I grew immediately. She slipped me inside her tight flower pulling a soft moan from me. She cupped my face and kissed away my tears. I held her tight to me and moved my hips slowly. I just wanted to feel good. I wanted to be lost in my mate and not think about anything else. I carried her out the tub and laid her on the floor of the bathroom. I placed her legs on my shoulders and buried myself deep inside her folds. I moaned at the sensation. I pumped my hips slow and hard. My lovely took all of me with a soft smile. I couldn't wait to build our home and have our pups. The more I thought about it, the closer I was to cuming. I kept my pace enjoying the feeling of being deep inside her. She moaned and scratched my back driving me over the edge. I moaned releasing my essence inside her. I let her legs down and kissed her deeply.
After our shower, we went to our closet. I grabbed some pajama pants and Eva put on some lounge clothes with slippers. "Going somewhere?", I asked kissing her from behind. "I'm going to cook for us until we can find a new kitchen Omega.", she said. "You don't have to do that, my lovely.", I said. "I want to. We need to be well fed in order to carry out our duties to the pack.", she said turning to me giving me a tap kiss. I smiled but it quickly faded remembering why we needed a new kitchen Omega. "I know, love.", she said. "I got this. You relax. I'll call you down when the table is set.", she said giving me another kiss. I nodded and went to sit in the lounge area. I put on a movie and Eva headed downstairs.
PAUL
Shayla was coming into the kitchen after dealing with the Coopers. "Hey.", she said looking around. "Everyone for themselves tonight for dinner?", she asked. I was sitting at the counter eating the sandwich that Eva didn't get a chance to eat. "About that.", I said. I reported to Shayla what happened with Mrs. Jones and her sons. "Does the BS never end? How is Ryan?", she asked. "Shaken. To make matters worse, we have more traitors among us. We're waiting for Corey to come back. The rogue we captured, Jace, has information on the rest but he won't say anything without knowing his family is safe. They set him up in the house by the cells. Him and his family will become pack members if things pan out.", I said. "Okay. I'll replace Mrs. Jones with Greg. He studied to be a chef. I'm sure he'll be able to handle it. Let me know when the family arrives. I'll set up the kids for school and find a job for his mate.", said Shayla. I nodded. I fell deeper into thought about Ryan and everything he's taken on."Maximus is a plague to everyone around him. He will have to be killed for Ryan and Eva are to live in peace.", I said. "After everything that's happened, I think Ryan having to kill his father would change him.", she said. "I know. One of us is going to have to take care of it.", I said. "Well, aside from Ryan, Sophia, Corey,You and Mark are the best warriors we have and the only ones strong enough to beat him. He may be a weaker Alpha but he still is an Alpha.", said Shayla. "When the time comes one of us will handle it. I'll talk to them. See where they stand.", I said finishing the sandwich.
Eva came into the kitchen and grabbed an apron. "What are you doing?", asked Shayla. "Cooking for our family. Dinner won't cook itself.", she smiled putting on an apron and tying the strings. She pulled 8 whole chickens from the walk-in fridge and set them in the sink. Shayla and I grabbed some aprons. "What can we do to help?", I asked. We moved around the kitchen seemingly in synch. We made roasted chicken and potatoes, asparagus and wild rice. We put everything on platters and set them out on the dining table. When the last plate was in place, Eva's eyes went white. We hung up the aprons in the kitchen then sat at the dining table waiting for everyone to arrive. Eric, Erica, Amy, Mark, Corey and Sophia came in at the same time. Caleb, Ed, and Penny came in a few minutes later. We all sat and waited for Ryan to come. After waiting in silence for a few minutes, Ryan appeared in the doorway with red eyes. He quietly walked to the head of the table and took his seat. Eva fixed his plate then hers. "Corey, anything to report?", asked Ryan. Corey reluctantly pulled out a list and handed it to Ryan. "Those are all the names of Max's spies in the pack. Red was taken down by Jace's mate. Sable and Justin are collecting the others. They are taking the traitors to the cells as we speak.", he said. Ryan nodded looking over the list. His face was hard and unreadable. "Set up a pack meeting. Attendance is mandatory. Everyone 18 and over. I want this to be the last time I have to do this.", he said. Everyone looked at each other. Contacting every member in the pack was a difficult task. No wolf can mind link more than 30 wolves at at time. Just as I was about to get started, I hear Eva say "Done. Everyone will be there by noon." We all looked to her in surprise except Ryan. "How did you do that?", I asked. "One of the perks of being the princess. Her mindlink is exponential. She can reach every wolf in North America if she chooses.", said Ryan taking a bite of his chicken. "That's awesome.", said Caleb. "Enough with the heavy. Did everyone like the clothes I bought?", asked Eva changing the subject. We ate and talked about light hearted subjects for Ryan's sake. Dinner was fantastic. Eva's parents taught her well. Her and Ryan went back to their room. Everyone else pitched in to help clean up. "Ryan is taking losing Mrs. Jones hard.", said Corey. "Yeah.", said Caleb. "We're going to have to handle Max for him. If he does it, we'll lose the man we know and love.", said Shayla. "Whichever one of us gets our hands on him, we need to end it.", said Caleb. "No offense sugar, but we are not strong enough to take him out. Only the Betas, Mark or Paul are strong enough to deal with him.", said Shayla. "We'll handle it.", said Sophia. "Ryan has been through enough.", said Corey. "Mark and I will be backup.", I said. Mark nodded in agreement.