2 Chapter 45%
The day had finally come. Nok and I were to be mated, and the entire territory was alive with excitement. Wolves from every comer had gathered, their howls echoing through the mountains as they celebrated the union of their Alpha and Lune–to–be.
The ceremony was held in the central clearing, under the glow of a full moon. The air was thick with the scent of pine and fresh earth and the energy of the pack would make anyone pause.
I stood at the edge of the clearing, my dress flowing around me like water Rudina stood by my side, her face glowing with pride.
“You look breathtaking,” she whispered..
I smiled, but my nerves were running wild. “What if I trip? Or forget what to say?”
Rudina chuckled. “You’re Lyria. You’ll handle it perfectly.”
The sound of Nok’s voice broke through the crowd as he stepped forward. “She always does,” he said, his eyes locked on mine!! The murmurs of the pack quieted as Nok approached me. He was dressed simply but regally, his presence commanding attention. As he reached me, he took my hand, comforting me
“You’re nervous,” he murmured, leaning close
The Elder began the ceremony, his deep voice carrying through the clearing as he spoke the ancient words of bonding. Nok and I repeated the vows, our voices strong and in unison.
When it came time to seal the bond, Nok cupped my face gently, his eyes never leaving mine.
“Lyria” he said softly, so only I could hear, “you are my world now. My mate, my equal, my everything“X
Before I could reply, his lips met mine, and the crowd erupted into cheers and howls. The bond settled between us, a warm, unbreakable connection that wrapped around my heart
As the ceremony ended, wolves of all ranks came forward to offer their congratulations. Rudina was the first to pull me into a tight hug.
“You did it” she exclaimed, tears shining in her eyes. “You’re the Luna now!
I laughed, the weight of the day finally lifting. Nok joined me, his arm slipping around my waist!
The celebration continued late into the night, with feasting, dancing, and howling under the moonlight. But through it all, Nok never left my side.8
The night was beautiful. Or so I thought.
I stood in Nok’s arms, feeling safe and happy Wolves filled the place, cheering and celebrating our bond. Everything felt perfect!!
As I looked around, I saw them–my father, my mother, and Damon. They stood quietly with the wolves, their faces unsure but hopeful.
“Your family is here,” Nok said softly, his voice close to my ear
“Your father is an Alpha, so he is attending as one. Don’t get worked up about it
I nodded, my heart unsure of what to feel.!!
Rudina walked by and gave me a wink: “Don’t worry, Lyria. Nothing will go wrong,” she whispered with a grin.
I smiled a little, letting myself believe it for a moment. But then it happened
A loud thud shattered the joy in the air. Everyone froze
