Chapter 49 The day of the ceremony arrived with a crisp breeze carrying the faint scent of pine and bonfire smoke, the air thick with the hum of voices. The Silverblade pack's courtyard was decorated with silver banners and fresh blooms, a stage set for an occasion that carried both prestige and weight among the allied packs. Darius stood among the gathered Alphas and Lunas, a tall and commanding figure with his Beta Marcus at his side. He could hear the soft buzz of conversations all around them- compliments about Luna Kathy's gown, the sharp cut of Alpha Michael's ceremonial suit, and remarks about how well the two looked together as they stepped into their new roles. "But why is she wearing a choker necklace? It obscures her bite mark," one Luna whispered just a little too loudly to her companion. Darius's eyes followed the comment, narrowing slightly as he looked at Kathy. Indeed, the necklace sat high on her throat, a band of jeweled silver that nearly concealed the telltale mark every Luna usually displayed with pride. His wolf stirred, assessing, listening. "Do you think she's covering it?" Marcus's voice slipped through the mind link, his tone edged with curiosity. He had heard the comment too. "Probably," Darius answered silently, his eyes still on the new Luna. "After what Elaine told them-that her mark is a reminder of her miscarriage. I wouldn't be surprised if she wants to hide it. Some wounds aren't for display, not even at a ceremony like this." Marcus gave a faint nod, his jaw tightening. They both knew how cruel whispers could be, how quickly scars-seen or unseen-became fodder for gossip in their world. The murmur of the crowd quieted as Councilman Lucius, a tall, silver-haired elder, stepped forward. His voice carried authority and tradition as he officiated the ascension of Michael and Kathy to their titles of Alpha and Luna. The ritual words, steeped in centuries of honor and expectation, resonated in the night air, At the close of the vows, Michael addressed the gathered packs, his voice strong, carrying a subtle mix of pride and humility. "Everyone, allies and friends, thank you for coming and celebrating this milestone of the Silverblade pack. My Luna and I pray to the Goddess for our continued alliance and friendship for the betterment and protection of all our packs." Applause followed, warm and genuine, though the undercurrent of quiet observation never left the air. Politics, Darius knew, was always present, even on nights meant for celebration. The festivities began, music spilling into the evening while omegas moved gracefully with trays of food and wine. Laughter and clinking glasses rose above the hum of strategy discussions between Alphas and their seconds. Eventually, the new Alpha and Luna made their way around the gathering, offering greetings and handshakes. When they reached Darius's table, Michael extended his hand. "Alpha Darius, thank you for coming," he said with deliberate respect. "Alpha Michael. Luna Kathy," Darius inclined his head slightly, taking Michael's hand with a firm shake. "Congratulations to you both." "Thank you, Alpha," Kathy replied softly, her smile polite yet tinged with weariness. Michael hesitated a moment before speaking again, his tone measured. "If you do not mind, Alpha, I would like to speak with you tomorrow before you leave. In my office." Darius raised an eyebrow slightly. The request was unusual. It was rare-almost unheard of- for one Alpha to summon another to his private office. Some would have taken it as an insult, a challenge. But Darius wasn't like most Alphas. He carried his authority without needing to constantly defend it. Still, Michael's caution was visible. "I will have an omega escort you, if that is agreeable," he added quickly. "That will be fine," Darius replied calmly, though his sharp gaze did not waver. Michael inclined his head, visibly relieved. Kathy gave a small nod as well before the pair moved on to the next guests. As soon as they were gone, Marcus leaned in with a low murmur. "What was that about?" "Your guess is as good as mine," Darius answered, swirling the wine in his glass. His eyes followed the couple as they drifted through the crowd, noting the tension in their smiles. "But I can guess what or who it may involve." Marcus's eyes flicked toward him knowingly, but he didn't press. The night stretched on, music and conversation flowing freely. Alphas spoke of border patrols and rogue threats, others negotiated trade agreements in hushed corners. Darius participated where required, lending his insight and calm authority, yet his mind wandered elsewhere. To Elaine. He pictured her waiting for him back in Crescent Moon territory, her presence softening the edges of his otherwise hard life. The thought tugged a rare smile from him, one Marcus noticed but wisely did not comment on. There was someone waiting for him now-someone who made his return home matter. And soon, there would be more than just Elaine. A pup. Their pup, even if the world had not yet acknowledged it. For the first time, Darius felt what other alpha's feel when they are to return home to their luna. Even though Elaine is not yet his luna and not his fated mate. In his heart and his wolf heart, she is their luna and mate. His wolf stirred with fierce pride and certainty. They had already accepted the little life as theirs, no hesitation. Darius's chest tightened with a mix of anticipation and resolve. Whatever tomorrow's conversation with Michael brought-whatever challenges still lay ahead -he knew one thing without doubt. He would do anything, face anyone, and fight every battle necessary to prove to Elaine and the pup that he was here to stay. Always.