Ronin felt an emotion he couldn’t describe blooming in his chest when Liora slid her hand into his. Her dress reminded him of rich flowing blood and it pleased his sadistic wolf very much. It was provocative but at the same time left something to his imagination.He wondered what she had on beneath the layers.“You look beautiful,” He kissed the top of her hand.“Thank you, Alpha. You’re looking quite regal yourself.” Liora tilted her head, “This is quite the event. Am I to accompany you as your mate, or as a party pup?”His lip twitched and he stared at her for a moment before tugging her closer to him, “You’re acting less and less like an omega these days.”Liora’s hand slid along his tie, shifting it until it was centered. “Thanks to our mating bond. I can’t be too submissive if I’m to be your Luna.”Ronin chuckled at that as they made their way down the stairs. “I cannot deny that our attraction is strong, but just because I wanna fuck you, it doesn’t means you’re fit to be my Luna
Ronin paced back and forth in the hallway, trying to prevent himself from bursting into Liora’s room to see what was taking the doctor so damned long. His wolf was erratic within him, his hands shaking.What if she…What if he lost her before he got the chance to truly call her his?What was he even saying? He had no intention of sealing the bond, but seeing her tonight–the way she defended the cub–maybe she could handle it.The venom of mindless beasts was highly toxic to wolves and only the strongest were able to survive it. Liora may have saved the cub, but she was still an omega–the weakest designation in the pack.They were taken so off guard and he was so busy trying to fend them off that he completely forgot to make sure she was safe. Not that she needed it. While everyone was running for their lives, she was on the attack.Wild and gloriously fierce.He tried not to think about how that fight could have gone very, very wrong–with her dead– and with him even more deranged.“Alp
Ronin drummed his fingers on the smooth finish of the desk. His wolf whispered devious suggestions to him, and he could barely focus on what Nikolai was saying. He was jonesing for blood–but not just any. He wanted to sink his fangs into Liora’s petite little neck. It had been weeks since he had tasted her, and his wolf was getting restless--so much so that the furry fiend had proposed some light killing of his council members to pass the time. “Ronin?” Lucien cleared his throat. “You look like you want to kill us.” “Do I?” Ronin hummed. “Maybe you should take the hint and get the fuck out of my study, hmm?” Caius sighed, “You are the author of your own suffering. If you would just mate the omega for goodness sake–” “I will not,” Ronin cut him off, turning his attention to Nikolai, “What were you saying again?” “I was saying that the activity of the mindless beasts over the last couple of weeks appears organized. Too strategic.” He held up his iPad so Ronin could see the annotat
The news of the mysterious new Alpha and the cryptic challenge made multiple rounds through the pack by nightfall. Liora was sequestered into her room and placed under heavy surveillance, while Ronin locked himself in his study with his council members and their seconds in commands. They deliberated for hours over a sensible strategy that wouldn’t result in the death of civilian wolves.“This is a trap.” Lucien deadpanned, “Surely you don’t mean to walk right into a trap, Ronin?”“Everyone knows it’s a trap,” Maia rolled her eyes. “How else are we going to find out who's behind all the recent deaths?”“Maybe we could send in a small team first? I could have some wolves ready within the hour.” Nyla, Xander’s second in command, raised her hand to volunteer.Caius narrowed his eyes and crossed his arms. “You must be out of your mind if you think I’m going to allow my baby sister to go blind into enemy territory.”Nyla scrunched her face. “I’m not a baby. I’m a second rank Beta and I have
They left for the camping grounds one hour before dawn, taking the familiar path through the Beta den. They walked in a particular formation, with Caius and Dorian in front, and Thaddeus and Emory flanking each side. Nikolai and Kieran walked at the back, with Ronin in the center.A squad of warriors in their wolf form was scattered throughout the forest, going unseen as they moved through the shadows. They set a wide perimeter and would be the first line of defense if they were ambushed. Each step Ronin took in the direction of the camping grounds brought a fragmented memory of the day he lost his family. He had to give credit to his opponent–whoever it was, knew him to the extent that they could engage in psychological warfare.“So Ronin,” Thad’s voice chimed to his left, full of mischief. “Since you won’t be mating the omega, how about you let her go so someone else can claim her, eh?”Caius sucked his teeth, “That mouth of yours is going to get you killed one day.”‘Excuse you, I
‘Easy!’ Ronin pulled rank on his detail as they pushed to break free of his will, wanting to retaliate against the arrogant statement. ‘Nikolai, hold the shadow guards. No one–and I mean no one– is to attack unless I say so.’Ignoring the mental chatter, Ronin cocked his head at the transformed beast. “My execution? So eager to get to third base, are we? I don’t even know your name or the name of this–” He gestured dismissively to the other beasts–"little pack of yours.”The man smirked, his eyes scorning Ronin from head to toe. “I don’t need to tell you my name to kill you. You certainly don’t ask for names when you enact murder.”Ronin frowned, “You’re one to talk, infiltrating my territory and murdering innocent wolves. What we do in retaliation to your attacks is justified.”“Well then,” The man bared his fangs at Ronin. “You can call me Saberlon–and consider what we’ve done as retaliation–for my father.”‘What the fuck is he talking about?’ Caius kept his eyes trained on the min
Liora had just finished the last of her omelet casserole when Thaddeus burst into the kitchen, his eyes darting until his troubled gaze landed on her. She didn’t seem to be affected by Ronin’s episode.“What happened?” She dropped her napkin, murmuring a quiet thanks to the maid who took her plate away. “Is it Ronin? Is he okay?”“Not here.” He angled his head for her to follow him.They went through the back garden and down the cobblestone steps towards the greenhouse. There was a stone bench beside a mini waterfall that flowed into a pool teeming with fish. He gestured for her to take a seat.“Gamma Wilderwood what’s going on? You’re making me nervous.” Liora rubbed her shoulders, her mind spiraling. If Ronin was dead, she would’ve felt it. Thaddeus scratched the back of his head. How much detail should he give her? “I–um, Ronin’s condition has worsened--and the council– we’ve decided to take matters into our own hands.”He made a shrill bird call, and waited until Maia and Lucien
“Oh my Goddess on a moon crater!–”The corner of Liora’s mouth turned up in a small smile at her best friend’s reaction. Callie rushed to the metal bars, pressing her forehead between the spaces so she could get a better look at Liora’s eyes.She jumped from one foot to the next, bristling with excitement. Liora cringed as a shrill squeal pierced the air. “You're Luna! I can’t believe it!– How did this even happen– wait, oh my Goddess, this means Alpha is your mate?! Tell me everything!” Liora chuckled, her chest warming at the familiar chatter. It had been too long since she’d seen her bubbly friend. “Let’s get you out of here first. Prison garb doesn’t suit you.” She gestured to the guard standing behind her. He rushed forward, fumbling with the keys before he found the right one to open the cell door.Callie looked down at her clothes, frowning at her discolored dress, “I’d hug you if I wasn’t so filthy.”“Nonsense. Get in here.” Liora opened her arms and embraced Callie. Callie
They guided him through Alastor’s house towards a vast hall. A gazebo was erected in the center, the sides draped with sheer curtains. He could make out tiny details of her silhouette that filtered through.Lupine folk knelt all around, prostrating and weeping, many ripping the skirts of their deep blue robes. The Oracle sat near the entrance, rocking herself back and forth as she mumbled in Greek.Ronin stumbled forward, catching himself against the post.“I’m fine.” He shrugged off Lucien’s helping hand. He didn’t want it.Flipping the curtain aside, he dragged himself in. She lay on a bed of furs and flowers, dressed in a shimmering blue gown, a white rose crown nestled on her head. Her long hair was fanned out over her shoulders, framing the necklace around her neck, which no longer had light.Her hands cradled her belly, almost like she was still protecting their cub.“Liora,” Ronin choked, reaching his trembling hand towards her cheek. It was so cold. His knees gave way and he c
This could not be happening.It wasn’t real.It couldn’t be.She couldn’t be dead.Ronin denied it a thousand different ways inside his head. But her silent heart was too big of a truth for him to ignore. Liora was gone.He killed her.“den me timórises arketá?!” Haven’t you punished me enough? He howled at the moon, holding on to her body like an anchor keeping him from drowning. The colder her skin became, the deeper he sank.He couldn’t think about Maia, sobbing a few feet away. He couldn’t spare a second for Nikolai, who still hadn’t moved from his slumped position.“You can’t be dead,” Ronin coaked, stroking her cheek with trembling fingers. “I can’t do this without you, Liora. Open your eyes!” He touched her lids softly, willing them to pop open, for a blush of red to color her cheeks and for the blue hue in her lips to fade.Kaon, his wolf, recoiled deep into his subconscious, seeking a quiet corner to hide from the agony. Ronin would give him no reprieve.Ronin got to his feet
Liora cried softly into the crook of Nikolai’s shoulder as he carried her through the dense forest. She could feel the sorrow of the pack, hitting her in waves. So many were injured. So many dead.Who would be so cruel, showing no mercy to women and children?What manner of foe was this that drove them from their home?Liora wished she could snap her fingers and make it all go away. The most she could do now was to share in their pain and grief and send soothing words across the mind link.‘Everything’s gonna be okay,’ She resonated. ‘By the Goddess.’“Luna.” Nikolai’s voice sounded tight. Liora didn’t realize how close her lips had inched to his neck. She had no urge to bite him, but she could sense that he still craved it.“Sorry.” She eased away, wiping her eyes. “Can you put me down? I’d like to walk for a while.”“Walk to where?” Callie scoffed, giving Liora a pointed look. She looked way too comfortable perched over Alastor’s shoulder. “You can barely walk a yard with that ten-p
Liora’s lips pressed into a thin line as she watched Ronin go down the hillside. Fine. She turned to Maia, grabbing her hand tightly, “Find Callie. She’ll be hiding somewhere around the old cabins.”“Everything’s going to be fine, Luna.” Maia planted a kiss on her wrist. “I’ll come find you later. Let’s go, Lucien.”They ran to the treeline with Thaddeus and Derith close behind. Liora let Nikolai lift her into his arms as smoky tendrils curled around Enas and the Oracle. When the smoke cleared, they were courtyards of the Beta den. Lupine folk were rushing toward the left backwoods path tucked at the end of the rows of buildings. Guards directed the flow of people while monitoring the entrance gates for mercenaries.A hand lightly touched her shoulder and she jumped. When did the Oracle get so close?“Apologies, Luna. I didn’t mean to startle you.” Inclined her head. “Enas and I will go ahead first and assist Alastor’s pack in receiving the pliveíos.” The Oracle clutched Liora’s hand
Liora’s eyes popped open when she felt a strange sensation in her chest. It was as if a hot wax strip was applied and ripped off without warning. High off euphoria, closed her eyes again, not thinking too much of it.Fifteen minutes ticked by before she noticed that the incessant urge for lupine flesh was gone.It was... gone?!The first thing that came to her mind was to tell Ronin, but she couldn’t interrupt him. So, she did the next best thing.“Caius!” She elbowed him repeatedly, unable to contain her laughter.“Yes, Luna?” He looked at her through one lazy eye that widened in surprise. “Your eyes– they’re normal.”Liora nodded, “I can’t feel the curse in my bond anymore. It’s gone!” If her belly wasn’t so big, she would run out into the feel and frolic like a carefree cub. “How is this possible, Caius? Does that mean Ronin is cured too?!”“I’m the last person you should be asking,” He laughed. “This is a time of miracles. Better not look the gift horse in the mouth.”Light grey s
As the sun made its descent on the horizon, the lupine folk slowly started to fill the clearing. It started with one or two until the entire field was filled with silhouettes dressed in white robes. The adults lounged around in circles, talking animatedly, while the cubs frolicked and chased each other in vigorous play.Looking farther out, Ronin could see Gamma and Delta warriors standing along the perimeter fence, clad from head to toe in tactical gear. Naturally, he couldn't see the shadow assassins, but he was confident they would be well hidden and vigilant.The golden crown on his head felt too heavy as if he would crumple under the weight. Would he be able to wear it after tonight? Would he be worthy? He wasn’t sure. All he could do was count down the minutes until the Rites would begin and he could cure his mate once and for all.Ronin felt the air shimmer beside him. He didn’t have to look to know it was Nikolai. “Everything’s set?”“Yes Alpha, it is all in place according to
“How much of this are we telling them again?” Thaddeus asked as hurried to catch up with Ronin’s quick pace. Ronin cast a sidelong glance in his direction.“We tell them everything except about the curse.” Ronin paused at the entrance of the large boardroom, allowing Geneda to adjust his black silk tie. Brushing his assistant away, he flexed his shoulders and rolled his head to ease the tension in his neck. “They need to know the truth about our Origin so that we can enlighten the packs during the ceremony later tonight.”The attendants opened the double doors and Ronin strolled in with an air of confidence that he didn’t quite feel.All twelve members of his council were present, along with his Regents, their seconds in command, Grandmaster Platon from Lyklos Keep, Elder Enas, and the Oracle. They had moved a much larger table in to accommodate everyone, wide enough that he and Liora could sit side by side at the head of the table.Liora was already settled, dressed in a dark green of
Liora stared at him, drinking in every inch of his towering frame. Her cub leaped within her, kicking with excitement. She tried not to get hopeful but it was a reflex she could not control. For as long as they were bonded, she would have faith that they would find their way back to each other, no matter how long it took.“Get out, omega.” Ronin stepped to the side. Callie threw her a pitiful look before scurrying past him down the hall.“Is there something you need?” Liora waved him in. “I have to see Doctor Reynolds in a few minutes.”As he stepped over the threshold, Liora felt like he was sucking all the air and light from the room. Wanting to put some space between them, she shuffled towards the window, gently perching herself on the loveseat.“That won’t be necessary, I already told him you will be present at the rites.”Liora hummed. “Understood. Do you need a towel to dry off?”“What do you mean?”“Your hair. It’s dripping wet.” Not waiting for his response, she padded to the
“Liora, honey, what are you doing out of bed?” Callie’s voice was low and careful. Everyone spoke to her that way nowadays, as if any louder and she would shatter into a million unrecoverable pieces.Ronin beat them to it weeks ago.“I just wanted to stand for a bit,” Liora let the curtains slide back in place and let her friend guide her back to the bed. She’d hoped that Caius could get through to Ronin, but by the looks of it, nothing good came from their conversation.Holding the underside of her belly, she gingerly sat on the edge of the mattress. Callie settled beside her, reaching out to take her hand.“No.” Liora pulled back, throat thick with emotion. “Don’t comfort me. That makes it worse.” Hot tears pooled in her eyes and she swiped angrily at them. “Damnit! I’m so tired of crying.”“I cannot stand your tears, Luna.” Callie’s eyes went wide, filled with grief. “Please let me soothe you. The stress is not good for the baby.”“I said don’t!” Liora snapped. She knew Callie just