The holy man passed it to Alpha who offers it to each of us for a sip. The rest is poured into the bowl and blessed. He holds it above his head.
“We ask for the blessing of the gods for this union.” Lighting streaks across the sky. Power thrums up from the ground. Thunder rumbles and the wind picks up.
Ghostly tendrils flow from my belly toward the men. The bonding process has begun.
“Our request has been heard and approved,” the holy man whispers.
The mixture is poured into a large horn and we’re offered the drink again. Tingles and warmth spread through me as it hits me like a shot of adrenaline.
For a moment I see a silver chord joining us all. It flickers before it disappears.
“Did you see that?” I whisper.
“It’s a sign that our match is good,” Kirk answers. He frowns. “But it’s weak. It’ll grow strong or die away with time as we each bond.”
It sounds invasive. “Do we want that?”
“It’ll increase our powers individually and as a group.” Of course, Fell knows the answer. Brown noser.
“On a day full of blessings, we ask you to celebrate with us and toast the happy mates. Send them your well wishes, and pray for their success. Our survival depends on it.” Alpha meets my gaze unabashedly.
I didn’t need the reminder about what’s at stake. There’s a family mystery entwined in this and I won’t rest until it’s been uncovered.
If it was important enough to bring my father back from the veil it’s worth investigating. Drinks are passed around amongst the pack and roasted pig is brought into the clearing.
“I want to speak with you alone.” Alpha turns, expecting us to follow.
“Lead the way, Alpha.” Cadoc steps forward and we leave the crowd behind.
“I know you’re wondering why I did this.”
You think? “Yes.”
“You’re going to need each of them in the future.” He approaches the small cavern and his men go ahead lighting the torches. Our first shifts are done here under supervision.
“Your family played a much more important role than you knew,” the Alpha continues.
My stomach clenches and I hold my breath.
“You’re being called into action as protector of Fenrir’s amulet,” Alpha says.
“Fenrir’s what?” Bo asks.
“An ancient medallion that gives a pack great power. It can only be handled by one of Fenrir’s bloodline. It was thought to be lost, but the tree has bloomed,” Alpha explains.
We walk down the cavern to the tree I’d seen my entire life covered in white blossoms. I’ve never seen the ash tree look like this.
“What is this?” I ask, confused.
“A sign that Fenrir’s descendants are needed. The amulet may be the one thing that gets the pack back on track,” awe and reverence laces the Alphas’ words.
“But you said we were.” I included my future mates in the circular motion.
“I told them that. They’re only privy to it because they are now linked to you. You must bond to be strong enough to wield the power coming to you,” Alpha says.
“It’s not that easy, Alpha.” I shake my head. Strong bonds are built from trust, genuine affection, and physical connection. It’s a multi-tiered process.
“Enough,” Alpha barks. I rear back whimpering as his power makes my breath hitch. “You have a month to form your first bonds.”
“You can’t do that—.”
“I just did. Do you think your feelings are more important than our continuation?” I shrink into myself.
“There’s nothing I wouldn’t do for our people. One girl isn’t going to ruin that for us. I will hold you down myself while each one of them ruts you if I have to,” Alpha says with a snarl.
The power in the Alpha’s voice makes me shake.
“That’s enough,” Cadoc barks. “Alpha.” Cadoc lowers his head as I tremble.
“You’d better keep her in line,” Alpha demands.
“I will. Today’s been a lot for her. Perhaps she needs time to meditate and consider her new position,” Cadoc says pacifying him.
“Take her to your new pack home, and have her begin the clarity process.”
New home?
“You won’t be returning to your house with your aunt and uncle. I’m gifting you a new home for your mates. Make it your own.” Alpha smiles, once more the gracious leader he pretends to be.
