Chapter 10
**MARCUS'S POV**
I stand at the entrance of Dona's sprawling ranch, my gaze tracing the impressive expanse of manicured fields and sprawling pastures that stretch as far as the eye can see. The sun casts a warm, golden glow over the verdant landscape, illuminating the stately manor house nestled at the heart of the property. The air carries a subtle hint of earth and freshly cut hay, intermingled with the faint sound of horses' hooves and the distant call of wild birds.
A sense of security permeates the atmosphere, amplified by the discreet presence of private guards stationed strategically across the estate.
The guards are six of both humans and werewolves, mostly omegas or werewolves interbred with humans. I never understood why they are held in contempt. The guards' watchful eyes survey the surroundings with a vigilance that speaks of unwavering dedication and commitment to safeguarding the ranch's tranquility and opulence. The towering wrought-iron gates, flanked by stone pillars adorned with intricate carvings, stand as a formidable barrier against the outside world, a testament to the exclusivity and privacy that defines this haven of wealth and privilege.
As I make my way deeper into the property, the landscape unfurls before me in a breathtaking panorama of rolling hills and lush greenery. Herds of well-groomed cattle graze peacefully in the expansive pastures, their contented lowing a symphony that harmonizes with the gentle rustle of the wind through the tall grass. The elegant stables, housing a collection of prized horses, stand as a testament to the ranch's equestrian heritage, their majestic frames adorned with ornate engravings that pay homage to a legacy steeped in prestige and tradition.
The main house, a grandiose architectural marvel, exudes an air of timeless sophistication, its sprawling verandas and sweeping balconies adorned with intricate ironwork and elegant draperies that billow gently in the breeze. The meticulously landscaped gardens, bursting with vibrant blooms and meticulously trimmed shrubbery, add a touch of vibrant color to the otherwise serene tableau, infusing the surroundings with a sense of refined elegance and natural beauty.
"Do you think she's paranoid? I think she's paranoid," Brandon says to me. I look at him and shake my head.
"Everyone here who is not human can hear you. Besides, I think a little paranoia is good for the…life. Makes you live longer when you are a leader."
I see her walking down the steps and I inhale deeply then start walking to her.
"Marcus…"
"I thought we had an agreement," I say to her. She raises an eyebrow.
"What are you saying?"
"We had an agreement that your wolves would make no trouble with mine, that your people would stay on their side of the territory but what is this I hear about three of your men coming to steal a car from a member of my pack?" I ask.
Dona's eyes narrow as she stares at me.
"You brother killed them I heard. He took the lives of three young wolves because they crossed the territory and made an attempt at a car. He could have even asked for a brand new car and he would have gotten it but he took their lives instead.
"We came to an agreement," I whisper.
"Do not think I'm stupid. You know the punishment does not fit the crime. I should have you killed where you stand but you seem to be the only half sensible person in your pack. The only thing that is keeping our packs from each other's throats is this fragile peace that we have made. Your brother would see it ruined and you would let the mad wolf run around recklessly," she says.
"He will be punished, swiftly and thoroughly. I will personally make amends to their families and see that they are taken care of."
"You take three lives and you think that is all?" She asks. I frown, feeling her hunger. She wants something, something she knows she would never have gotten otherwise.
"What else do you want?" I ask.
"I want to get back into the car business."
I can feel Brandon's eyes on me and I can feel the collective tension. I fold my arms around my chest and shake my head.
"That would be too much."
"It is excessive? You have already shown that you and your family are not behind going the extra mile. Those are my terms. For peace to reign, you must let me get into the car business," she says.
"And if I refuse?" I ask.
"Then there will be nothing that can be able to compensate my pack and I. We will take lives for lives and we will take them tenfold."
I know she is not bluffing and I am torn between letting war happen or giving her what she wants. We are so far ahead that her competition would mean nothing to us and that will be ensured with a bit of deft handling. If I refuse then lives would be lost in a scale which would make business competition seem pitifully trivial.
"Fuck you, Elliot," I mutter under my breath.
"I will need time to…"
"There is no time. You have to make your decision here," she says to me. I look her in the eye and I nod.
"Alright then. I give you my word as alpha of the Crescent blade, you will have full access to the business while minding your own territories," I say. She gives me a half smile then she nods. I turn around to Brandon staring wide eyed at me. I shake my head and walk past him.
"You know he must be punished for this," he says.
"I know he must be."
"What will you do?"
"Punish him," I reply.