-ALARIC-
The cottage hummed with quiet tension as Liam and Tobias returned with Freya in tow. Tobias’s sharp blue eyes scanned the room, landing on Alaric, who stood near the fireplace, his posture relaxed yet watchful. Freya, however, greeted him with an unexpected warmth, her hazel eyes softening as if she already knew him.
“Welcome,” Freya said, her voice calm and assured. “You wouldn’t have been led to us if the ancestors didn’t trust you. That makes you a friend.”
Liam glanced at Freya, his expression sceptical but intrigued. “She’s right,” he said after a pause, his voice low. “He’s telling the truth. Whatever his reasons, he’s not here to harm us.”
Alaric’s piercing blue eyes flicked between them, his brow furrowing slightly. “You greet me like an old friend,” he said cautiously. “But how can you be so sure?”
Freya smiled, a quiet strength in her expression. “The ancestors wouldn’t have marked you without purpose,” she said, gesturing toward the faint tattoo on his wrist. “You’re one of us.”
Tobias’s wolf bristled, his protective instincts flaring. “That remains to be seen,” he growled, crossing his arms.
Alaric met Tobias’s gaze evenly before turning back to Freya. “I don’t know why I’m here,” he admitted. “But I trust my instincts. And right now, they’re telling me that this, whatever it is, matters.”
Liam stepped forward, his dark eyes steady as they locked onto Alaric’s. “He’s honest,” he said simply, his newfound ability lending weight to his words.
Freya nodded, her hazel eyes unwavering. “Then tell us why you came.”
Alaric hesitated briefly before speaking. “I’m here because the council sent me to investigate. They know something is brewing, and your Alpha’s meeting with the other Alphas tonight confirmed it.”
The group exchanged uneasy glances, the weight of the revelation sinking in. Liam frowned deeply. “So that’s what he’s been up to,” he muttered, almost to himself. His gaze sharpened as he added, “Did George know about this? And where is George tonight?”
“Our Beta’s with us in this,” Tobias said firmly, though his eyes flickered with concern. “But he’s missing tonight, which isn’t like him.”
Alaric nodded. “Victor was there,” he said, his tone steady. “But I don’t know George, so I can’t say anything about his involvement.” He sighed, pushing a stray lock of blonde hair back from his face, the tension in his expression clear. “What I do know is that they’re planning to take control, overthrow the council, and seize power. Rowen Shadowclaw wants to be king.”
Freya’s expression darkened, her hazel eyes narrowing. “Magnus wants the same thing,” she said softly, her voice laced with quiet determination. “He’ll wait for Rowen to succeed, then take him out. And the other Alphas? They’re just as greedy. Once Rowen’s gone, they’ll turn on each other.”
Tobias growled low in his throat, the weight of their predicament pressing down on him. “So we’re caught between rogues and traitorous Alphas. Perfect.”
Before anyone could respond, a knock sounded at the door. Finn strolled in, his usual grin plastered across his face. “Well, what do we have here?” he said, glancing at Alaric. “Another handsome stranger? Careful, Tobias. Freya might start a collection.”
Alaric raised an eyebrow, the tension in the room easing slightly as Helena stifled a laugh. But then his expression shifted, his nostrils flaring slightly as his gaze snapped toward the doorway. A sweet, intoxicating scent filled the air, like ripe apples and wildflowers. It wrapped around him, pulling him toward the door with an invisible force.
The door swung open, and Mira and Zara entered, their voices cutting through the quiet. Mira stopped abruptly, her brown eyes widening as she locked gazes with Alaric. He froze, the world narrowing to just her. Her deep, earthy scent overwhelmed his senses, her presence igniting something he had thought he would never feel.
Time seemed to stand still as Alaric stepped forward, his movements deliberate and sure. His piercing blue eyes softened, a flicker of vulnerability breaking through his composed exterior. “Mate,” he murmured, the word a reverent growl as he reached her.
Mira’s lips parted in shock, her body tensing before melting into his embrace. “Mate,” she whispered back, her voice trembling but filled with awe.
Finn, never one to miss an opportunity, let out a low whistle. “Well, that’s convenient. Maybe next time we can set up a matchmaking service for wolves.”
Zara smacked him on the back of the head, her grin betraying her amusement. “Finn, not the time.”
The group shared a soft laugh, the tension easing as they took in the unexpected turn of events. Alaric’s hand brushed against Mira’s cheek, his touch gentle but sure. “I thought I’d never find you,” he admitted, his voice low and raw with emotion. “I’d given up.”
Mira’s brown eyes shimmered with tears, her lips curving into a small smile. “You don’t have to look anymore,” she said softly.
Freya stepped closer, her hazel eyes warm as she watched the bond between them unfold. “The ancestors brought you here,” she said. “And not just for us. For each other.” She smiled as she motioned towards Mira. “Alaric, may I introduce Mira. Mira, this is Alaric”
The room fell into a comfortable silence, the bonds between them growing stronger with each passing moment.
– TOBIAS-
The packhouse was alive with the sounds of laughter and chatter, the last of dinner being served to the bustling crowd. Tobias and Daemon entered, their sharp eyes scanning the room for any sign of George. The smell of roasted meats and fresh bread wafted through the air, but neither man paid much attention to the tempting aromas.
Spotting Darice near the kitchen, Tobias strode over, Daemon following closely. Darice, ever bustling, looked up with a warm smile. “Tobias, Daemon,” she greeted, wiping her hands on her apron. “You two look like you’ve been busy.”
“Have you seen George tonight?” Tobias asked without preamble, his voice low enough not to draw attention from nearby pack members.
Darice nodded, tilting her head thoughtfully. “I saw him earlier, actually. He was telling off a couple of young omegas who got caught skipping their lessons. Poor pups looked like they’d been caught by their mothers,” she said with a chuckle. “Then he was called into the Alpha’s office about an hour ago.”
Tobias and Daemon exchanged a look. “Did he say anything to you?” Daemon asked, his tone calm but laced with concern.
“Not much, just grumbled about being pulled away from his plans for the evening,” Darice replied. “If you see him, tell him I’ve kept dinner back for him. And you two—if you want something, let me know.”
“We’re good for now, Darice,” Tobias said with a small smile. “But Freya wanted me to tell you she’ll visit soon.”
Darice’s face lit up. “Oh, wonderful. I love having her around. Such a sweet girl, always helping me with the little things. You make sure she knows she’s welcome anytime.”
Tobias nodded. “I will.”
As they turned to leave, Daemon leaned in slightly. “What now? Do we head to the office or wait here?”
Tobias glanced toward the Alpha’s closed office door at the far end of the hall. His jaw tightened as he considered their options. “If George is still in there, we shouldn’t interrupt. But—”
Before he could finish, Victor appeared, striding out of the hallway that led to the Alpha’s office. His presence was commanding, his eyes sharp as they landed on Tobias and Daemon.
“Well, if it isn’t Rowen’s finest,” Victor said smoothly, his tone dripping with condescension. “Looking for something?”
Victor’s sharp gaze settled on Daemon, his lips curling into a sly smirk. “I’d heard you were back, Daemon,” he said smoothly, his tone filled with feigned curiosity. “Strange timing, wouldn’t you say?”
Daemon’s brown eyes met Victor’s without flinching. “Just visiting old friends,” he replied evenly, his tone giving nothing away.
Victor raised an eyebrow, clearly dissatisfied with the answer. “Old friends? In this pack? That’s an interesting choice.”
Tobias stepped forward slightly, his stance protective. “Did you need something, Victor?” he asked, his voice cool.
Victor’s smirk widened, his eyes gleaming with thinly veiled malice. “Not at all. Just passing along a message. George is out on a mission for the Alpha. Should you need him, you’ll have to wait.”
Daemon’s expression didn’t change, but Tobias’s wolf stirred uneasily beneath the surface. Victor was acting shifty, his body language tense and his words too rehearsed. They didn’t believe him for a second, but neither man gave any indication of their suspicions.
“Thanks for letting us know,” Tobias said casually, though his eyes remained locked on Victor’s.
Victor’s gaze darted between them, clearly fishing for information. “And what about you two? Training? Patrolling? Something else?”
“Just grabbing something to eat,” Tobias replied smoothly. “Liam’s been keeping us busy with some new drill ideas.”
Victor chuckled darkly, though his amusement didn’t reach his eyes. “Of course. Always busy. Well, don’t let me keep you.”
As Victor turned and walked away, Tobias and Daemon exchanged a look. “He’s lying,” Daemon muttered under his breath.
“Obviously,” Tobias replied, his jaw tightening. “George on a mission? For the Alpha? That doesn’t add up.”
Daemon nodded. “We need to find out where he really is.”
Just as they were about to leave, the door to the dining hall creaked open. Two young warriors, barely out of their training years, slipped in cautiously, their eyes darting around the room. When they spotted Tobias, they hurried over, their movements tense.
“Tobias,” one of them said in a hushed tone, his face pale. “We need to talk.”
Tobias frowned, motioning for them to lower their voices. “What’s going on?”
The second warrior glanced around nervously before speaking. “Something’s wrong. We don’t know exactly what, but if something happens, we’re with you. Whatever you need.”
Tobias’s frown deepened. “Why would you say that?”
The first warrior hesitated, exchanging a worried glance with his companion. “We saw Victor leading George toward the cells earlier. It didn’t look right. He was… dragging him.”
Tobias’s heart sank, and Daemon’s expression darkened. “You’re sure?” Tobias pressed, his voice low but urgent.
The young warrior nodded. “Positive. George didn’t look like he was going willingly.”
Tobias and Daemon exchanged a glance, the gravity of the situation settling heavily between them. “Thank you,” Tobias said, clapping a hand on the nearest warrior’s shoulder. “Keep your eyes and ears open. And stay out of sight.”
The warriors nodded and hurried out of the room, leaving Tobias and Daemon alone. “We need to move,” Daemon said, his voice sharp.
Tobias’s blue eyes burned with determination. “Let’s check the cells. If George is down there…” He trailed off, his fists clenching. “We’re getting him out.”
Without another word, the two headed toward the lower levels, their steps silent but purposeful.
————-
The dimly lit corridor leading to the cells was eerily silent, the oppressive weight of wolfsbane lingering faintly in the air. Tobias and Daemon moved quickly but cautiously, their senses on high alert. As they approached the row of cells, faint murmurs reached their ears.
In adjacent cells, George and a woman with striking green eyes stood at the bars, deep in conversation. At the sight of Tobias and Daemon, George’s face lit up with relief.
“Tobias! Daemon!” he said, gripping the bars tightly. “Thank the Goddess. I didn’t think I’d see you again so soon.”
“George,” Tobias said, his blue eyes scanning the area for any guards before stepping closer. “What the hell happened?”
George’s shoulders sagged slightly, his relief tempered by the weight of the situation. “I was in the office when the Alpha and Victor came in,” he began, his tone grim. “They closed the door behind them, and I knew immediately something was wrong. The Alpha didn’t mince words. He said Victor is the new Beta.”
“What?” Tobias growled, his wolf snarling beneath the surface. His fists clenched at his sides as he fought to stay composed. “He’s replacing you?”
George nodded, his face tightening. “He said my… ‘friendship’ with Freya and the rest of you made me a liability. They think I’ve seen too much. They want me out of the way.”
Daemon’s eyes narrowed, his wolf pacing restlessly inside him. “This isn’t just about replacing you. They’re consolidating power—eliminating anyone who could stand in their way.”
“Exactly,” George confirmed. “They dragged me down here, locked me up, and that was it. I overheard Victor talking to one of the guards. The Alpha is planning something big, and they’re making sure no one gets in their way.”
Daemon’s sharp gaze shifted to the woman in the other cell. “And who’s this?” he asked, his tone laced with suspicion.
“This is Lyra,” Tobias explained. “She helped Freya escape from Magnus’s camp.”
Daemon froze, his gaze snapping back to Tobias. “What camp?” he demanded, his voice low. “What do you mean Freya was captured?”
Lyra spoke up, her tone calm but urgent. “It was a week ago. Magnus took her. He wanted her power for his own plans, but I couldn’t let that happen. I gave her a way out.”
Daemon’s wolf bristled, and his brown eyes flashed with a mix of anger and disbelief. “And now you’re here? Why?”
Lyra met his gaze steadily. “Because I know what Magnus wants. I know what he’ll do if he gets the chance, and it’ll destroy more than just your pack. I chose Freya’s side, and I’ll fight with you, but I need you to trust me.”
Daemon hesitated, his instincts warring with the situation’s urgency. Tobias intervened. “We’ll let Liam test her,” he said firmly. “His ability to sense lies will settle this once and for all.”
Lyra nodded, her green eyes steady. “Good. I have nothing to hide.”
George sighed, leaning against the bars. “You can’t break me out now,” he said. “Not while the guards are still fresh. Wait until the shift changes tonight.”
“We’ll come back for both of you,” Tobias promised, his blue eyes blazing with determination.
Lyra smiled faintly, a mix of relief and resolve in her expression. “Thank you. I’ll prove myself to you.”
Daemon regarded her one last time, his gaze unreadable. “You’d better,” he said simply, before turning toward the corridor.
George called after them, his voice soft but firm. “Be careful. The Alpha and Victor are playing a dangerous game, and they won’t hesitate to come after you.”
Tobias gave him a sharp nod, his expression hard. “They can try. We’ll see you tonight.”
The two slipped into the shadows, leaving the cells behind.
——–
– FREYA-
When Tobias and Daemon returned to the cottage, the air was thick with anticipation. Freya stood near the small fire, her golden eyes lifting to meet Tobias’s as he entered. The others quickly gathered, sensing the urgency in their demeanour.
“What happened?” Freya asked, her voice calm but edged with worry.
Tobias and Daemon exchanged a brief glance before Tobias began. “The Alpha and Victor have decided to make Victor the new Beta. They told George his loyalty to you—and to us—makes him a liability.”
The group erupted in murmurs of disbelief and outrage. Alaric leaned against the wall, his blue eyes narrowing in thought.
“There’s more,” Daemon added. “Two of the younger warriors approached us. They didn’t have much to say, but they’re loyal to Tobias and willing to fight when needed. They said they saw Victor leading George toward the cells. We managed to get down there and it’s true. ”
Freya’s expression softened, but her gaze turned resolute. “It’s time,” she said quietly.
“Time for what?” Mira asked, her green eyes sharp.
Freya straightened, her voice steady as she spoke. “We need to leave the pack. Tonight.”
The room fell silent, her words hanging heavily in the air.
“We can’t stay here any longer,” Freya continued. “The Alpha has already begun cutting ties with anyone who might stand against him. It’s only a matter of time before he targets us directly. We need to get to the Alpha King.”
Zara crossed her arms, her brows furrowing. “You really think we can just leave? The Alpha will notice. He’ll send wolves after us.”
Freya nodded. “That’s why we have to move carefully. Tobias and Liam can gather the warriors they trust, as quietly as possible. We can’t risk a confrontation here. We’re not safe anymore.”
Alaric stepped forward, his tall frame casting a shadow across the room. “It’s a three-day journey to the Alpha King’s court,” he said. “If we stick to the hidden paths and move quickly, we can make it in time.”
Mira looked sceptical. “And if the Alpha sends trackers after us?”
Tobias’s jaw tightened, his blue eyes blazing. “Then we deal with them. But Freya’s right. Staying here isn’t an option anymore.”
Helena, standing close to Daemon, glanced between the group. “We’ll need to pack light,” she said. “Something we can carry in wolf form.”
Freya nodded. “Exactly. Just the essentials. We’ll travel as wolves to stay off the main roads.”
Alaric’s gaze swept across the group. “This won’t be easy. It’s not just the distance—it’s the terrain, the weather, and whatever dangers the Alpha might throw at us. But if we stick together, we can do it.”
The group fell into a tense but determined silence as the weight of the decision settled over them. Freya’s calm leadership surprised them, but it also inspired them.
Tobias stepped closer to Freya, his voice low. “Are you sure about this?”
Freya met his gaze, her expression unwavering. “I am. This is bigger than us, Tobias. We have to stop whatever the Alpha and Magnus are planning. And we can’t do it alone.”
Tobias nodded, his resolve hardening. “Then we’ll leave tonight.”
“Everyone,” Freya said, addressing the group. “Pack what you need and be ready. We’ll meet back here in an hour.”
As they dispersed to prepare, the cottage buzzed with quiet determination. The bonds they had forged were about to be tested in the most profound way. They were no longer just a pack—they were a team, united by purpose and the promise of a better future.
And now, as soon as George and Lyra were released, their journey to the Alpha King—and their destiny—would begin.
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