Fiona reached out instinctively, her fingers brushing against the empty space beside her. Realizing Phoenix's absence, she sighed. Her body still felt lightheaded, the events of the previous night a hazy but pleasant memory that brought a small smile to her lips.
Meanwhile, Phoenix stood at the edge of the mountain, his hands clasped behind his back as he gazed over the city below. The wind whipped around him, carrying scents and sounds from the bustling pack below. His sharp senses detected a presence behind him—a scent unmistakably belonging to Vangelis.
"What's the problem?" Phoenix asked, his tone calm, without bothering to turn around.
"We can't find Fiona," Vangelis admitted, his voice tinged with worry. "Last night, my mother told me I was acting strangely in my sleep—calling out for her. I'm afraid something bad might happen to her."
Phoenix's lips twitched into a faint smirk. "Relax. I've been keeping an eye on her since last night. She went to her parents' house and is on her way to the palace as we speak."
Vangelis exhaled in relief, stepping closer to place a hand on Phoenix's shoulder. "Thank you. I'm lucky to have someone like you watching over us."
Phoenix finally turned, his electric-blue eyes glowing faintly in the dim light. "I'll always look out for you, Vangelis," he said, his voice low and steady. "And for Fiona—ensuring she gets everything she desires and more."
A sly grin crossed Vangelis's face. "Since when did you start caring about people?"
Phoenix chuckled lightly. "Let's just say Fiona's movements have been occupying my attention—both consciously and unconsciously."
Vangelis gestured toward the cityscape. "You know, this is the best vantage point in the pack to see everything—without your seventh eyes."
Phoenix smirked at the jibe.
"When do you plan to visit the Red Lunar Pack?" Vangelis asked, changing the topic.
"Sooner than expected," Phoenix replied simply.
"By the way, today's my grand wedding. Can you predict anything about my Sapphire?"
Phoenix raised a brow, his tone playful. "Your Sapphire? How possessive."
"I'm about to rule the Bloodmoon Pack," Vangelis said, his voice brimming with pride. "And Fiona—she feels like a blessing. Whenever she's with me, it's like I can't breathe without her."
Phoenix's smirk softened, though his tone remained indifferent. "I might not make it to your wedding."
"That's fine," Vangelis said, nodding. "As long as you're not against us, I trust you, Phoenix."
Phoenix gave a curt nod. "Good to know." Without another word, he leaped off the cliff, disappearing into the woods below in a blur of speed.
---
The Wedding Scene
"I proclaim Fiona Sapphire and Vangelis Humphrey as husband and wife," the priestess declared, completing the final rite.
A chorus of howls and cheers erupted as both wolves and vampires morphed into their beastly forms to celebrate the union. As they shifted back, Vangelis pulled Fiona into a deep kiss, sealing their bond.
Eira's eyes flitted to the grand door, scanning the crowd for Kieran. Her heart sank when she didn't see him. But just as she turned away, a flash of light caught her attention. There he was, leaning casually against the doorframe.
She waved at him with the small toy he'd given her last time, her heart racing. His voice suddenly filled her thoughts, deep and teasing:
[You look stunning in that red gown. How are you?]
Eira grinned. [How are you in my head right now? I'm so glad I can still communicate with you. I'm doing great!]
She glanced back at him, her smile radiant. Kieran touched his chest dramatically as if struck by her smile, then blew her a kiss. She caught it with a laugh, her cheeks flushing slightly.
[That's my girl,] he said warmly.
Vangelis took Fiona's hand and led her to his mother, kneeling before her in a gesture of respect.
"May the Moon Goddess bless you with a happy marriage, healthy children, and a reign that lasts forever," his mother said, her voice trembling with emotion. She removed the crown from her own head and placed it gently on Vangelis's.
"I pronounce you King of the Bloodmoon Pack," she declared.
She then crowned Fiona as well, her hands steady with pride. Fiona's family approached with a ceremonial staff, presenting it to her.
"This staff symbolizes your position as Queen of the Silvermoon Pack," they announced.
Fiona and Vangelis stepped onto the stage, their regal figures commanding respect. Fiona raised the staff, her voice steady and resonant as she addressed the gathered crowd:
Here's a regal speech for Queen Fiona, delivered with the confidence and grace of a powerful leader addressing her Kingdom
Fiona stood tall, her crown shimmering under the moonlight, the staff of Silvermoon resting elegantly in her hand. She gazed at the gathered crowd—wolves, vampires, and her newly bonded family. Her voice rang clear and commanding, carrying an air of both authority and warmth.
"My beloved Bloodmoon and Silvermoon packs, today is a day of unity, strength, and renewal. As I stand before you, crowned not just as a queen but as a bridge between our worlds, I am filled with gratitude and purpose.
For centuries, we have thrived in our uniqueness, yet today we embark on a new journey—one where the wealth of Silvermoon and the power of Bloodmoon unite to strengthen our bonds. Together, we will rise to heights our ancestors could only dream of.
As your queen, I vow to uphold the values of justice, prosperity, and peace. Silvermoon, known for its abundance, will stand as a pillar of support, ensuring Bloodmoon is sustained with the vital resources it needs—monthly supplies of blood, a gesture of trust and shared destiny. In return, we welcome the strength, loyalty, and unmatched courage that Bloodmoon embodies.
To our families, to our children, and to our future—I promise to lead with fairness and compassion, to protect our lands and people from any threat that dares disturb the harmony we now forge.
Let this day be a beacon, a reminder that even the fiercest beasts can find unity in purpose. Together, we will build a legacy that will echo in the annals of history—a legacy of strength, unity, and unwavering hope.
Thank you all for standing by us, for believing in this vision, and for allowing me the honor of serving you as your queen. May the Moon Goddess continue to bless us all."