Chereads / The Crimson Throne / Chapter 3 - Into Reality

Chapter 3 - Into Reality

***THIS NOVEL IS SOLELY PUBLISHED ON WEBNOVEL. LEGAL ACTION WILL BE TAKEN IF THIS IS RECREATED OR REPUBLISHED WITHOUT WRITTEN CONSENT OF THE AUTHOR***

Dinner was amazing. We talked about almost everything. Likes, dislikes, places we want to go, music and food. Time seemed to fly by. If our waitress didn't come over and ask us if we were ready for the check, we never would have noticed that we were the last ones there. Ryan paid the bill and we went for a walk around the lake. The lake mirrored the clear night sky. The moon was high and the stars were shining so bright. I felt so connected to him. Safe.

"Ok. So this is going to sound crazy but it's been bugging me since we met.", I said. "What is it?", he asked. He looked curious. Amused even. My heel caught in the sand and I stumbled. Ryan reached out his hand and balanced me. I chuckled out of embarrassment. "Thank you.", I said smiling up at him. I suddenly noticed his hands and the tingles. I pulled away quickly because I needed answers. No. I needed to tell him. He looked disappointed by my reaction. He straightened up, and slipped his hands into his pockets. I saw a fallen tree that looked perfect to sit on. "Let's sit. These shoes aren't made for such soft terrain.", I said. He offered his arm for support and I took it. We walked over and he laid down his jacket for me to sit on. I sat and he got down on his knee.

"So, You were going to talk to me about something?", he asked taking my shoes off. He got up and sat next to me placing my shoes next to him as if they were his for the night. "Yeah. Please keep an open mind. I know it sounds crazy but I'm neurotypical. And no one knows why or how these things happen..", I rambled. "I'm here, Eva. You can tell me anything.", he said smiling at me. I looked out on the lake taking a deep breath. "I've seen your face for years before I even met you. That's why I was so shocked the first time I saw you. I have been having dreams of you since I was young. At first, the dreams were innocent. Flying kites, playing tag, reading comics and books under a tree. As I got older, the dreams turned into something else. We were older. There was flirting, stolen glances, shared moments. I know I don't know you but it feels like I've known you my whole life.", I said. He stayed silent. He looked like he was in deep thought. "We are 5 years apart right?", he asked. "Yeah.", I responded. "Did your dreams start when you were like 7?", he asked. "How did you know that?", I asked. "Because mine started at 12.", he said. "Your dreams?", I asked. "Yeah. I dreamt about you too. The dreams started when I was on a business trip with my father. The business deal fell through and we left. We stopped at a restaurant called Gaia's Bounty before we went to the airstrip. I went to the bathroom and smelled something amazing. It was peaches and caramel. When I got back to the table, I asked the waitress for whatever the amazing smell was. She didn't know what I was talking about. She said none of the desserts had peaches in them. That night was the first dream. We sat under a tree and just read books. We didn't speak we just silently enjoyed each others company.", he said. "How can we dream of each other but never met? And our dreams started at the same time? How is this even possible?", she asked. "I was confused myself and since I didn't trust my Dad, the only adult I could ask was Maggie. She was the one who told me that it's a fated mate dream.", he said. "A fated mate dream?", I asked remembering the last dream. "Yes. Because we are fated mates and we are..." "Werewolves.", I said cutting him off. He smiled slightly and nodded. "So, that dream from the other night. That was real?", I asked. "Yes.", he said his smile fading. I got up and started pacing. "So we are destined for one another?", I asked. "Yes.", he said with a look of worry starting to appear on his face. "So, what? Am I going to grow a tail and chase it? Am I going to start craving kibble?", I asked. Ryan burst out laughing. "You think this is funny?", I asked mixed with rage and fear. Ryan stood and started walking towards me. "We are wolves, not dogs. The only things you will crave is meat, Moonlight, to run free when the mood strikes you and me.", he said standing in front of me and taking my hands into his. "Do you feel that? The tingles help us by increasing our desire for one another. This only happens with fated mates.", he said as the tingles ran up my arms, roamed my body and pooled in my lower belly. "Our sense of smell helps us too. It's how we find our mates. The scent of our mate can also soothe us when we are feeling angry or anxious.", he said releasing my hands. "What do I smell like to you?", he asked leaning down to bare his neck to me. I leaned in and inhaled deeply. I could feel my tense muscles ease and relax. I could feel my emotions starting to balance out. I inhaled again. "Like mint and fresh cut grass.", I said significantly calmer. He smiled at me and said, "Do you feel better now?", he asked me. I nodded.

With my mind a little more calm, I asked more questions. "Paul? Is he a werewolf too?", I asked. Ryan nodded. "Everyone you've met since you started working here, is a werewolf.", he said. "Is that why everyone looks like they could be models?", I asked. Ryan chuckled. "Wolves do tend to be taller and more athletic, but genetics play a role too. Not every werewolf is aesthetically pleasing in their human form.", he said. "Human form? Do we physically change into wolves?", I asked. "Yes. Most of us share some traits with their wolves. Like me for instance. My wolf, Onyx, Has black shiny fur and stands above all other wolves in the pack, literally. He's tall and muscular but our eyes are different. His are a bright sky blue. On the other hand, Paul's wolf, Grindle, has grey fur with brown eyes.", he said. I have so many more questions but I realize that this revelation has taken over our date. As if he knew what I was thinking, he walked back to the log we were sitting on and picked up my shoes. "Are we leaving already?", I asked with disappointment laced in my words. "I think we should. It's been an emotional night.", he said reaching for my hand. I took his hand and he led me back to the SUV.

 Ryan climbed into the back seat with me and Paul closed the door behind us. "Does being your fated mate equate to being your wife?", I asked. "We call a werewolf couple, mates. Some use the term "matage" to describe the bond . I guess matage does correlate to marriage for humans but wolves don't have a ceremony. We simply mark each other mid coitous. But I would marry you if that's what you wanted. I understand what it means to humans.", he said. I thought about what he said. "We have to have sex to mark each other?", I asked. "No. It's just more pleasurable that way.", he said. I pressed my knees together thinking of how he kissed me in that dream. "You're blushing. Is sex an uneasy topic for you?", he asked. "Not really. It's just that I was saving myself for my husband. I wanted to know if we're fated mates how did it equate to being husband and wife.", I said. Ryan sat there staring at me with his lips curling into a smile. "What?", I asked feeling a little exposed by the information I just volunteered. "You saved yourself for me?", he asked. "Well...", I hesitated. "Yes and no. I had a boyfriend at one point but we never did anything passed kisses on the cheek. Plus, I didn't know if you were real and if you were whether or not you would be my husband.", I said honestly. "I waited for you too.", he said. 'Is he blushing?', I asked myself. "You're a virgin?", i asked in disbelief. "I am. I didn't want anyone but my fated mate.", he said his cheeks now bright red. "I did NOT expect those words to come from you. You are the most attractive man I have ever seen. I know women throw themselves at you.", I said. He slid closer to me. "Quality over Quantity. I have only ever wanted my gift from the Moon Goddess. No one else.", he said raising my hand to his lips. I pressed my thighs together. An unfamiliar ache was there at the top. "I am a very patient man. I will respect your decision to wait for us to be married. The last thing I want is to pressure you or make you feel obligated because you are my mate.", he said slowly letting go of my hand and sliding back over to his seat. I was disappointed and my flower ached even more. "Ready to go home?", he asked smiling. My face was on fire. "Y-yes. I am.", I said in a low voice and turned to look out the window. Ryan knocked on his window and Paul hopped in the driver seat. We drove off the empty parking lot.

RYAN

Eva was quiet for a few minutes. Then, she wasn't. "So you two are part of the same pack?", asked Eva out the blue. "Yes.", responded Paul. "Can I be part of your pack? Or do I have to speak to the leader?", she asked. "Being my mate, informally makes you a pack member. To become a full member you have to do a ritual.", I said. "Ok, but who is the leader?", she asked. "The Alpha.", said Paul looking uncomfortable. Paul is a bad liar. "I am the Alpha.", I said putting Paul out of his misery. He sighed a breath of relief. "Figures. I guess that's the fatherly vibe I get from you.", she said. I could see her putting it all together in her head. "Wait. Alpha is like the father of the pack right?", she asked. "Yes.", said Paul. "So, if I'm your mate does that make me...", she trailed off. "Our Luna.", said Paul happily. Eva's eyes went wide. "Does that mean I am going to be responsible for taking on motherly duties for... How many wolves are in the pack?", she asked looking a little panicked. "Maybe we should table this conversation. I don't want you to be overwhelmed before you understand what a Luna is and her role in the pack.", I said holding up my hands. "Being our Luna is not a role that you have to take on right away. I want to keep you to myself for a little bit. Is that okay?", I asked leaning in so she could smell my scent more and calm down. I saw her starting to breathe slower. "Yeah, I guess.", she said. 

We pulled up to Eva's and Paul helped her out the car. I got out on my side. "So, would you call this a successful date?", I asked walking up to her. She exaggerated thinking about it then Smiled and nodded. "It was okay.", she said with humor in her eyes. "Goodnight, Paul." she said giving him a little wave before taking my arm. Paul gave a slight bow. "So, can I call you my girlfriend? I never had one before.", I said. I asked her that just to see her blush one more time. She's so adorable and bashful. I love that about her. "I thought that was a given since we are mates.", she said. "You were raised by humans. I want you to be comfortable. I'm not going to claim you as anything unless you allow it.", I said. She smiled and said "I would like to get to know you better. Can we go on one more date before I decide?", she asked. "Sure. I have the perfect second date in mind.", I said. She opened her front door and turned to say goodnight. "I really did enjoy myself even with all the mind boggling revelations. I'm glad we finally met.", she said. She looked at me biting her lip. 'She wants me to kiss her, but I won't stop at just a kiss.', I said to myself. I leaned in and kiss her on her cheek close to the corner of her lips. "Have a goodnight, lovely.", I said in a low voice. "Goodnight.", she said breathlessly and closed the door. I stood there until I heard her apartment door close and lock.

I turned and Paul was smiling with all his teeth. "Stop smiling.", I said smiling myself. I got in the back of the truck and Paul got in the front. "Finally, we have a Luna!", said Paul. "Yeah. I decided to bring her home tomorrow night to meet the rest of our family. I think Shayla and Sophia would help her settle a little more easily.", I said as we drove. I didn't have to tell Paul what happened by the lake. I know he heard every word. "If anyone outside our family asks tomorrow who she is, she's a found pup. I don't even want Ms. Jones to know she's my mate. Not yet.", I said. "Then why don't we just hang out at the Penthouse instead. Mimi has to fit her and she needs to do more shopping. Maybe we just let the girls take over for the day and you two have your date that night.", said Paul. I clapped him on the shoulder. "Perfect plan.", I said.

"Not to kill the mood but I took the liberty of doing a deep dive into her background when I found out she was your mate. I think there's something you should know.", said Paul handing me a file. I took the file and he continued. "Her ex is the reason she left home. They dated her last two years of high school. He asked her to marry him on graduation night. Her parents objected of course but she told him no for her own reasons. He was becoming possesive. Three weeks after she graduated her parents died in a car accident. The report says that he fell asleep at the wheel but the driver's side showed evidence of them hitting something before they drove off the side of the cliff. They would have survived but they were mauled by wolves. Her ex is the second son of Theodore Donnovan of the Red Moon pack.", said Paul. The way he stopped talking I knew there was more. "Go on.", I said. "It's there in the file. I don't want to say it outloud.", said Paul. There was a second police report and an order of protection. As I read the report, Onyx growled. "Meeting in my office.", I said through gritted teeth.

------------------------------------------

We walked into my office and the black box was already sitting on the coffee table. Me and Paul dropped our gadgets in it and Caleb locked them away. "I called you here because I have good news and bad news. Good news is, Evanora knows. I would like for Sophia and Shayla to meet with her tomorrow and have some shewolf time and answer her questions. She was a little overwhelmed with me and it made it harder for her to focus. The more information she has, the easier it will be to bring our Luna home.", I said. Everyone was smiling and congratulated me.

"Now, for the bad news. Evanora's ex is Thomas Donovan of the Red Moon Pack. He is the second son of Alpha Theodore. He has been stalking her.", I said. I gave them all the details that was in the report. When I was done, the anger radiating off of everyone in the room was nearly palpable. Low growls from them resonated off the walls. "Please calm yourselves before you rile up Grindle and Onyx.", I said feeling Onyx's anger starting to rise. Since Paul and I are unmated, we would not be able control them if we go into a rage. The Betas and Gammas buried their noses in their mates necks and started to relax. Onyx paced back and forth but decided to sit and listen to our plan. "What are we going to do?", asked Sophia."Paul, call Mark to the office. I know it's late, but this can't wait.", I said. Paul's eyes went white. "He'll be here in five.", said Paul. I nodded. "Corey and Caleb, I want you two to go through my father's Alpha journals. Remember when I was 12, my father and I went out to visit Alpha Theodore. Their meeting fell through. I want to know why.", I said. "Yes, Alpha.", they said in unison. I turned to Shayla and Sophia. "Evanora hasn't mentioned her ex yet, so don't bring it up. But if she does mention it, try to get as much information as possible.", I said. "We need to send someone to his pack. We need to find out how much they know about her and whether Thomas is acting alone.", I said. "I don't think that's a good idea. If they don't know who she is, sending someone over there would raise questions.", said Sophia. "That's true. It's not like you can announce her as your mate.", said Corey. "That might be putting her in harm's way. What if her ex doesn't know where she is? Sending someone to his pack to ask questions about her might tip him off to her whereabouts.", said Shayla. "We should just focus on bringing her home.", said Caleb. There was a knock on the door and Paul let Mark in. "Do you have a cell on you?", I asked. "I left it at my place.", said Mark. "Who are your most trusted warriors? Ones' you know are loyal and can keep their mouth shut.", I asked him. "Well, Sable, of course, and Alan.", said Mark. Mark is Paul's older brother. You wouldn't know it just by looking at them. Paul is 6'5", blonde hair and dark blue eyes. Mark is 6', brown hair and brown eyes with less muscle mass than Paul which makes him look so much smaller than his younger brother. But both are deadly warriors. Their strength would not match an alpha but their skill would take one down easily.

We told Marl the situation. Listening intently, Mark's face went from eager to help , to ready to kill. "Alpha, in my opinion, they're right. sending someone out to the Red Moon pack would be a bad idea. The best course of action would be to have her watched over by two of our warriors. We should try to find out if she has any friends she is still in contact with from her hometown. See if they have any information on her ex.", said Mark. "Alright. Get Sable and Alan. They must be discreet about this. You can tell them she's my mate but nothing else.", I said. "Alpha, I'd like to replace Alan. He is an excellent warrior and trust worthy but I don't trust him as much as I do, Sable. It would be an honor to look after our Luna.", said Mark. I nodded. "Knowing you are watching over her makes me much more at ease. Paul, give him her address.", I said. Paul took Mark to the side.

I finally sat in my chair behind my chair and took long, deep breaths. Onyx was still tense and overly alert. He was pushing our senses into overdrive. I took out my pony tail and rubbed my fingers through my hair. Sophia got up and started massaging my scalp. "She'll be here with you soon.", she said. Onyx laid down, enjoying our head being rubbed."I know. It's getting late, let's start the days reports and you all can go.", I said. "None of the reports are pressing they can wait till tomorrow.", said Shayla. "Alright. Thank you all for your help.", I said. I grabbed Sophia's hand, giving it a light squeeze. Everyone said their good nights, took their gadgets and left. 

I've known Sophia since we were five. Her father was a Beta in a pack that my father absorbed into ours. Since he already had a Beta that he trusted, he saw no use for Sophia's father. He was going to ban them until her father told him about his idea for the garden and solar panels. He became an engineer for the pack. Sophia and I were so close people speculated that we would be mates. She met Corey when they were 10. At first Corey hated that she and I were so close, but once he saw that I was more like a brother to her, he became like a brother to me. I named Sophia my Beta because she is not only a great warrior, but she is caring and not afraid to speak up when she thinks I'm wrong. She is loyal to me and our pack. I couldn't trust my father's, Beta's, son. He would report everything to his father who would in turn report to my father. When I took over I dismissed all of my father's staff including the Omegas. The only one that's left is the cook, Mrs. Jones. She's like a second mother to me. 

After a few moments of being left alone to my thoughts, I decided to go to bed. I walked to my suite at the end of the hall of the pack house. The entire 4th floor is for the Alpha and his family. I never noticed just how empty it felt until tonight. 10 bedrooms 2 offices 1 salon and 1 suite. All these rooms and only 2 get used regularly. I showered, brushed my teeth and went to bed. I couldn't wait to see my lovely.

*****The Dream*****

I was sitting on the edge of the desk. I wore black silk pajama pants with w fitted white tank top. my hair was up in a messy bun. I never paid much attention to the items in the room but tonight, the swords caught my eye. There were about two dozen hung on the wall in different shapes and sizes. from long swords to throwing knives. All of them had Eva's family crest engraved on the blades. There were two that were very ornate. Both had a ruby cluster on the bottom of the hilt with emerald chips so small they looked like glitter, running up the length of the hilt. When I focused my eyes I saw that the cluster was in the shape of a rose and the emeralds were the stem . The blade itself was made of iron coated in fine silver. 'These blades are for killing supernaturals. Why are they here?', I asked myself.

Before I could get up and have a closer look at the collection of silver blades. The door opened and Eva walked in. "Hello Ryan.", she said practically purring. "Hello my love.", I responded. Every step she took towards me was a sight that I welcomed. The way her legs peaked out from under the long sheer night gown she wore tonight, the movement of her hips and breasts seemed like a dance enticing me to caress them. The smile she donned did not have a trace of innocence or fear. Instead of the shy girl that usually walked through that door, a confident and focused woman replaced her. Now, standing in front of me, she placed both hands flat against my stomach and slowly slid the up. I closed my eyes, enjoying her touch. Tingles ran through me like lightning bolts. 'They have intensified', I said to myself. I opened my eyes and looked down at my beautiful mate. I didn't want to touch her. I wanted her to do as she pleased with me. Her eyes followed her hands, taking in every inch of my skin that her fingers glide over. She reaches my neck and bring her hands to cup my face. "Are you truly mine?", she asked. "Forever.", I whispered. She kissed me softly. I kissed her back and I could feel her desire, her elation. I could barely breathe. I pulled myself away from her lips and kissed her softly on her forehead. She looked up at me confused. "I don't want to go to far.", I said. She looked up at me disappointed. "But this is just a dream.", she said. "Yes, but I don't want to tempt you to go further than you would in the real world. I respect you and I appreciate that you want to wait for marriage. i want to support and encourage you.", I said. "Well, we already have.", she said. "What do you mean?", I asked. "The kiss. That was my first kiss.", she said looking away trying to hide that she was blushing. I leaned forward and whispered in her ear, "Mine too." She looked up surprised. "When I said I waited for you I meant it. I've never kissed a woman before you. The only hands I've held belonged to friends and family. You are my one and only. There's no rush or pressure. I am willing to wait.", i said taking her hands in mine and kissing the backs of them. "Besides, if we do it here you won't be surprised on our wedding night.", I said thinking about how she would feel pressed against me. I wanted to grab her and kiss her. "Are you sure?", she asked taking a step closer. Her ample breasts brushing against my bare chest. "Eva. Please don't tempt me.", I said feeling my hunger for her rise. "Can we kiss at least?" she asked seductively. "Eva... ", I said trying to take a step back but the desk stopped my retreat. She stepped forward and put her hand flat on the desk trapping me against her. "Yes, Ryan?" she asked. She kissed my chest. I felt my rod twitch. "Eva...", I whispered my conviction weakening. "Yes, Ryan?", she asked whispering against my chest in between kisses. I sat on the desk and leaned back trying to move away from her lips. She climbed on top of me like I was a stallion. My rod was rock hard and perfectly in line with her flower. "Eva... please...", I quietly begged. I just didn't know what I was begging for. To her stop or for more. She kissed my lips, then my cheek, then my neck. She started to move her hips, rocking her thinly veiled flower against my rising wood. "Please...", I said nearly in audible. "What are you begging for, my love?", she asked clearly enjoying herself. She moved her hands down my chest to my abs then grabbed my throbbing shaft. I moaned. "I don't know.", I admitted. She began moving her hand up and down. She wasn't perfect at it but I'm sure this is the first time a cock has been in her hand. She kissed me deep. I grabbed her ass and slowly moved my hips. The tip of my shaft was pressed against her flower. Every time I slowly and softly thrust, Slid in her hand and could feel her damp flower through the thin material of our clothing. She moaned into my mouth. I was getting dangerously close to losing control. I wrapped on arm around her waist and picked her up. She clasped her hand behind my neck and continued kissing me but it became more frenzied. I cleared the desk and laid her on it. I started kissing on her neck and massaging her breasts. Her moans were music.

I ripped open her gown, needing to see more of her. I almost put her nipple in my mouth and stopped. I took three steps back. "We need to stop. This is too much.", I said breathing heard. I trembled with desire. I wanted to be inside her so badly. She sat up covering herself with the rags of her night gown. "I'm sorry. I do want you, but I don't want you to change or lower your standards to please me. I'm happy to wait for you.", I said. She just smiled at me but laid back again sighing in disappointment. "No, I'm sorry.", she said. She sat back up and hopped off the desk. I watched as her nightgown started pulling itself back together. "I finally found you and you're great. Your handsome, charming, kind... and all I want to do is jump on you. You're right. I wanted to wait for my husband. But since I learned that it's going to be you, it seems kinds of silly to wait.",she said walking towards me. "Eva... If you touch me again I won't be able to stop. I want our first time to be real. Not a dream.", I said. She smiled sweetly and stopped. "Now i'm the villain trying to steal your virtue.", she said her smile fading. I started getting this heavy feeling. It felt like heartbreak, fear, and guilt mixed around in my stomach. "Eva...", I said reaching for her....

*****Reality*****

My eyes opened. The ugly tan color ceiling was my focal point while I thought about what Eva said: a virtue stealing villain. I jumped out of bed and went to my office. I opened the door on the left side of my desk. Then I unlocked my safe using my middle finger on the fingerprint scanner. I removed the file and started to search for the police reports. I find two reports. One about her parents which I read and the other one about the order of protection. As I read,Onyx began to bark and growl while pacing. *We must hunt him! We must kill him now!*, he snarled. I calmly thought about what our next move should be. *What is there to think about? HE MUST DIE FOR HURTING OUR MATE!!!*. shouted Onyx. The thought of how he would die by our hands put a sickening grin on our face. *Let's think about this logically and strategically. In order to truly keep our mate safe, we have to bond with her. We need to mark and marry her. She still doesn't fully know who she is. I would rather spend my time with her instead of tracking him. Eventually, he will find out where she is and be stupid enough to try to take her. By that time, we will be hers and they will be ours.*, , I said. Onyx laid down looking at me disgusted. *He will walk willingly into his death.*, I said. Onyx huffed looking slightly less disgusted. *Still, I do not approve. He is a threat as long as he is alive.*, he said. *She is safe with us.*, I said. Onyx laid his head on his paws. *We need to bring her home.*, he said closing his eyes. *We will.*, I said. I put her file back together then locked it up again. I looked at the clock on my desk. 4:15 am. Training starts in 15 minutes. I rushed to my room to get ready.

THOMAS

2 years ago

After six months of looking, I decided to go back home. I got to the edge of my pack lands and no one was there to greet me. *"Father, I'm at the border of the pack lands. Where are the guards?"*, I asked him in the mind link. No answer. I growled slightly and started walking towards our pack house. We have never really been a strong pack. Our bloodline has been muddled since my great grandfather decided not to wait for his fated mate. My grandfather was the first born of an alpha and an omega. Towards the end of my great grandfather's life he found his fated mate and left the pack with her. The story goes that they lived the rest of their lives as rogues, but I always suspected my grandfather hunted and killed them. My family isn't known for being close. My grandmother was an omega and so was my mother. our bloodline has been thinned out for generations. Although they were fated mates, being so low in the order of hierarchy has made our line weak. That's why the twins were able to stop me when I had that fight with Eva. My Alpha line is weak. But I'm going to change that.

I walked up the stairs of our crumbling pack house. My father showed me picture from when he was a pup. It was a light shade of blue and the windows were bordered in a dark navy paint. The black roof shingles had a shimmer to them. Father told me that his mother had silver flecks sprayed across the roof so that it could shine like the night sky. It definitely looked better then, than it does now, and it didn't look like this when I left. There are vines growing up the sides of the building. The windows were dirty making the place seem abandoned. 'What happened?', I asked myself. I walked up the steps and opened the front door. The smell of rotten food from the kitchen made me gag. "Where are the Omegas?", I asked out loud. My mother took pride in our home. She never would have let it fall apart like this. I rushed up the stairs to the top floor. I burst through the doors of my parents room. No one was there. I went to my father's office and found him sitting behind his desk. He looked this and pale. He looked at me but his face did not change. His face was void of emotion. "Father, what happened here? Where's mother?", I asked walking towards him. "Thomas?", he asked finally recognizing me. "Yes, Dad. it's me.", I said leaning forward to touch his shoulder. "Where have you been? Why didn't you come home?", he asked. "I had some things to do. What happened here?", I asked. He hung his head. "Rogues attacked. A lot of them.", said a voice from behind me. "Eric. When?", I asked. "The night you left. They killed your brothers. Timothy and Tegan fought hard but they weren't strong enough.", he said. I sat down in the chair across from my father sharing his blank stare. "My mother?", I asked. "She was taken. We hunted them for weeks. We found her body by the lake.", said Eric. I noticed he had a tray of food. "Try to get him to eat.", he said placing the tray on the desk in front of me. "What about Beta and Gamma?", I asked. Beta is his father. Eric and Ed were lucky enough to be born to a Beta male and female. That's why they are so much stronger than me. "My father and Gamma survived but he took heavy injuries. Him and the warriors killed most of the rogue group but were too badly wounded to stop them from taking your mom. After the funerals, Your father has just been sitting here. I'm hoping you being back will help.", said Eric. "Where is everyone? The Omegas?", I asked. "Most of the pack left to join other packs. My family was planning to leave if Alpha... didn't get better.", he said hesitating to finish his sentence. I looked at my father. His face was drawn from weight loss, his light brown eyes sunken with dark circles around them. His skin looked fragile, like tissue paper. His robe was filthy, his fingernails long with dark lines of dirt under them. "I'll stop by your room when I'm done with him. In the meantime see if you can find some Omegas to clean up.", I said walking around the desk to tend to my father. "We live in one of the houses near by. Your father didn't want us here after everything happened. I bring him food from my house. There's nothing here.", he said. "FIND THE OMEGAS TO CLEAN UP MY HOUSE!! NOW!!", I shouted. My father didn't flinched at my raised voice. He just stared blankly into the distance. Eric stood there and stared for a second. I could feel tears burning my eyes so I looked to my father. I went to my father side and began to feed him. I heard Eric's footsteps down the stairs before I looked up. 

After getting my father to eat almost half of his plate, I put him in the shower then sat him on his balcony. Afterwards I cleaned his room and bathroom. Eric returned with two Omegas. "These are all I could find.", he said. I turned to face them. "I am taking over as Alpha temporarily until my father is well. First, we need to restore the pack house and lands. Second, we need warriors. Have them begin walking our border. Third, I need your father to come talk to me. I need to know what funds we have and what money is coming in from the construction business.", I said to Eric. "You two, I will help with the chores of the pack house until we can find more Omegas. Do either of you know basic handy work?", I asked them. They both nodded. "Good. We will work on patching and restoration first. Then we'll make the house spotless.", I said passing them the trash bags that accumulated while I cleaned. "Go to the storage and get what we will need.", said Eric. "You're going to help?",I asked a little shocked. "Of course. This is my pack too. So, if you're going to stay and fix it, I'll help.", he said walking away. I slightly smiled then picked up a stack of dishes and headed to the kitchen.

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After a week of round the clock dedication to the project, the pack house was clean and restored. Dad's manager stayed on top of things while Dad was down. He's a loyal pack member. Thanks to him there is a small surplus in pack funds. I was able to pay for shipments of meat and supplies for the pack. Eric's father, Ethan, helped me recruit more members and warriors. We even had most of our pack members return. The past few months were hard but I pulled the pack up from ruin. Eric and Ed have been visiting and helping where needed. Eric is our new general. He implemented a more intense training methods and Ed shared his knowledge of martial arts to help improve our warriors hand to hand combat. We only have about 500 warriors but I'm hoping to have more by the end of the year. If my father doesn't snap out of his shock by that time I will have the Beta and Gamma Blood me in as Alpha.

I asked the twins if they've heard from Eva but they either ignore the question or say they haven't. I know the have. But I think I can find another way. I called Amy and Erica but I think they blocked me. I know Eric is still seeing Erica. I know she knows where Eva is. For now, I will focus on fixing my pack. I'll give it a year.

1 year later.

It was a cold winter evening when Fang came back from a run. We shifted and I showered. I slipped into some sweats and got some hot tea. I went to the study to light a fire and read. I was getting antsy. Beta Ethan and Gamma Randy are hesitating Blooding me as Alpha. Being that my Alpha line is weak, challenging them in a brawl is not an option. I just have to be patient.

I grabbed an ornate book off the shelf and sit in my father's arm chair. 'The history of the Royal family.', was the title. The book is red. leather bound, and the title is written in gold filigree. There were some decorative gold tips on the corners of the cover and the pages appeared slightly yellow from age. My great great great grandfather made this book. He was a history buff and took upon himself to make this book. Each son after has added to it. I opened the cover, and it read: This book contains information about the lives of each Werewolf King and Queen of the Royal Bloodline of North America. I flipped the page and began to read. It seems every rightful ruler was blessed by the Moon Goddess and have a particular set of physical attributes. Reddish brown hair, emerald green eyes with a crescent moon birthmark. The second to rule would have turquoise color eyes. Meaning if something happens to the reigning King or Queen They take the place until the new heir comes to power. If the Bloodline ends, Steward of the crown will reign until a new monarch is named.

The Royals have been absent for nearly 20 years. On the 21st year, after the end of the mourning period (mourning period is 1 year), a new monarch is elected and a new Royal Bloodline will be created. The new monarch is expected to be named in about 6 months. 'Would be nice if it was...', my thoughts trailed off. My thoughts went to Eva. 'She fits two of the three physical attributes, but I have never seen a birthmark on her.', I said to myself. I flipped to the last written page of the book.

'Here follows the account of Queen Sarah Nora Hollows and Her husband, King Joshua Evan Hollows.:

Queen Sarah came into power When she was 23. Her mother and father Queen Marla and King Lavon ruled until their deaths. The Queen fell ill and passed. The king was so distraught, he died a month later of a broken heart. Queen Sarah was 16 at the time. Her Steward, Maximus Storm, helped to guide her, teaching her about affairs of state and what treaties were in place with which territory's. Maximus is also over protective of the princess. He was always by her side. When the young princess turned 19, she found her fated mate. His name was Lavon Duncan. The couple bonded quickly and marked each other after two days. Lavon became King, when Sarah became Queen, on her 21st Birthday. The Queen had her first shift the night of the inauguration. The King did not because he Is a mage. This is the first time in the Royal Bloodline that the mate is anything other than an Alpha or of an Alpha bloodline. However, The King is from a line of Witches and Mages that are akin to nobility in their community. The Steward stayed on in the castle as an advisor to the Queen. On, her 22nd birthday, The Queen announce her pregnancy. The entire Kingdom rejoiced. The King and Queen were beloved. They were fair and made sure that all packs remained peaceful with each other. We were thriving. 

The week before the new princess was due to be born, the King disappeared. Warriors and Royal Guards looked for him. The stress sent Queen Sarah into labor. Maximus was kept out of the birthing room. He became violent with the nurses and guards. given that he was an Alpha they hard a hard time keeping him out. This lead the Queen to believe that she was in danger and used a secret passage in the castle to leave while in labor. Only one nurse and one wolf went with her. 

No one knows where the Queen fled to and if the baby is alive. At the time of writing this, the newborn royal would be about seven years old. He or she would have all the attributes listed above. They are probably uniquely kind and good looking given their parents. More than likely being are drawn to them. Men and beasts. If they do not claim the throne before time is up I fear for our world. The Steward is a vile, greedy, power hungry wolf. Nothing good will happen if Maximus Storm is named King. He paid a handsome sum for his mates hand. She was an Alpha's 3rd daughter. Melinda came form a blood line of Alphas that went back 10 generations. He wanted to make his bloodline stronger since he came from a mix of Beta and omega bloodlines. She gave him a son, Ryan Storm, then died six years late before they could have anymore pups.

The Steward came to visit me once with his son. He asked about members of my pack and if there has been a pup with these attributes. He wouldn't take no for an answer and asked for all the children of my pack to be brought before him. He left when he didn't find the child. If he does find them, it won't be good. He'll either try to take the child as a chosen mate once they are of age or have his son do it. Either way, he would be in power. I hope they return to the crown unscathed and unburdened by this diseased wolf. Even if I did know I would never tell.'

I closed the book and locked it up in my father safe. Just as I put the painting back in place to cover the safe, Ed knocked and walked in. 'Did he see?', i asked myself. "Hey. What's up?", I tried to ask casually. "Dinner is ready.", said Ed. His face was normal. If he didn't see something he didn't reveal it on his face. "Okay.", I said smiling and following him out.

A month later, father still wasn't back to his normal self. I don't think he'll ever come back. Beta Ethan and Gamma Randy finally did the ceremony to Blood me in as Alpha. First thing I did was make Eric and Ed my Beta and Gamma. Also, I found three wolves that were loyal to me. It took about six months to be sure. I gave them fake secrets about me just to see if they would tell anyone. Nothing ever came back to me. So, I set them on the task of finding Eva. I have searched everywhere in washington. I know she's not in the state. So I had them head east.

After three months they came back. They found her working as a chef in a restaurant in Aurora. 'Finally. I can get her back and make her my mate. If she is the lost Princess, I will be her King!', I said to myself. I told my Beta and gamma I needed a break. That everything was starting to be become overwhelming and I was taking a week to myself. I don't care if they believe me. I needed to catch her before she disappeared again.

I packed a bag and set off on foot. I wanted the freedom to shake anyone who tried to follow me. Fang ran when we were in woods and I walked when we couldn't get around a city or town. After 2 days of traveling non-stop I reached Aurora. I checked into a hotel and took a nap. I need my energy. The next day, I walked the city. I checked several cafes, diners and restaurants. Before the end of the day, I found where she'd been working. I stayed in the alley by her job and waited. I wasn't goingt o make my presence known until I knew everything. Where she lives, if she has any friends or roommates, and if she has met someone. 'If she is the long lost princess she would be having dreams of him. She would have told me if she was dreaming of another guy.', I said to myself. Then I thought about how she broke up with me. *Your obsession will kill us. We don't need to be king. We only need our mate.*, said Fang. 

Our mate is named Mahogany. She is beautiful. She has a sun kissed complexion with dark blonde hair. She's slim and muscular with chocolate brown eyes that make me melt when she smiles .But our mate is probably an Omega. Evanora could be that long lost princess. She's the wiser choice for my pack. *Our mate will not help the future of our pack or our bloodline. Evanora is the better choice.*, I said. *We have changed and brought our pack back from the brink of annihilation. You don't know what the Moon Goddess has in store for us. This would not please Her. Especially if she is from Royalty. You need to think this through further.*, he said then retreated to the back of my mind. Fang has never understood me. I know he is my other half but he doesn't get me. I have the right to choose my mate and she will be magnificent. Not some low born Omega.

I was angry that Evanora resisted my charms. I am a werewolf. We are always more attractive than humans. All supes are come to think of it. Humans fawn over us. Desire us. But if she is a supe, that explains why she could resist me. My train of thought was interrupted by the banging of the back door. Someone came out to throw out trash and there she was. Plating a dish and smiling at some waiter. The porter went back inside closing the door and cutting my view. The restaurant closes in an hour which means her shift won't be done for another 4 hours. I went to a cafe across the street and watched the restaurant. I sat there thinking about how I was going to approach her. I knew it wouldn't be easy after our last encounter. I knew I would have to surprise her. I didn't want to arouse anyone's suspicions so I only stayed there for about a half hour then I went to the theatre down the street. I killed a couple of hours watching a horror flick about a red door demon. It was pretty scary. Eva would have loved it.

With an hour left to her shift I waited in the darkest area of the parking lot. ABout an hour and fifteen minutes later, she came out with her bag over her shoulder. She was walking to the car that was parked three spaces from the door. it was a teal colored, two door car. 'She must've traded in the car her parents bought her. I watched as she unlocked her door got in and locked it again. I tried to transform but Fang wanted nothing to do with it. So I became this half wolf half human thing. I looked like the monsters humans depict in their werewolf movies. I followed her.

She lives in an apartment complex on the first floor. She unlocked her door and went inside, locking her door behind her. She looked comfortable in her new home. She emptied the contents of her bag onto the kitchen counter then hung her bag by the front door. I watched her put her food into a pan then put it in the oven. She began to undress and walk to her bedroom. I went to her bedroom window to watch. She had already taken off her shirt. She kicked off her sneakers then pulled off her socks. Watching her move is intoxicating. She opened her jeans then bent down as she slid them off her legs. Her ample ass in the air made me hard. There was a knock at her door. She grabbed her purple robe and slipped it on. "Who is it?", she asked. "It's me, Mama.", said a females voice. Eva walked back to the front door and I went back to the other window. Eva opened the door and a tallish muscular girl stood there. "Hey!", said Eva smiling. "Missed you at class today.", said the girl. Eva stepped aside and invited her in. "I was feeling nostalgic so I took an extra shift at the restaurant.", said Eva locking the door. "Well you missed some important instruction. We worked on how to get out of grips and choke holds.", said the girl. 'She's taking self defense?'< i asked myself. "I'll be there tomorrow.", said Eva. "Wow. What is that incredible smell?", asked the girl. "Stuffed bell peppers, mashed sweet potatoes and Cajun salmon. My mother's favorite foods.", said Eva proudly. "Nice.", said the girl. "There's enough for two. just let me shower really quick and we can sit down.", said Eva walking to the back. "Okay.", said the girl. She walked around the living room. looking at boxes that haven't been unpacked. She noticed a bluetooth speaker in the corner and turned it on. She started playing some upbeat music and dancing. After a few minutes Eva returned and took the food out of the oven and took some plates out the cabinet. She served the food as they held light conversation.

It was getting late. I wanted to wait for the girl to leave but being in this form without the support of Fang was draining me. I left and went back to my hotel room. I slept the entire day. I woke up as the sun was going down. I checked me phone and there was a message from Eric. There was a rogue attack on pack lands. Our warriors were able to push them back but we lost 32 warriors. 'We can't lose anymore warriors. Let