Chapter 36
RONAN’S POV
(Just prior to Kael’s Arrival)
“Alpha,” Theron approached with a concerned look etched on his features. My gaze shifted to the parchment clutched in his grasp, curiosity sparking about its contents.
“What is it?”
“A message, Sire,” he inclined his head while presenting it to me. “From Lycan Kael,” he elaborated. I furrowed my brow in puzzlement—what could the Lycan possibly desire?
I accepted the scroll, unfolding it with care. “Hmm,” I murmured as my eyes skimmed the text. Once finished, I flung it onto my desk and reclined in my seat.
“This… Lycan Kael claims he’s coming to propose an alliance?” I questioned, more to the air than anything, but Theron answered.
“Yes, Alpha, I only just received it,” he confirmed.
“Very well,” I cleared my throat. “Reply that I consent.”
“Sire?” Theron’s eyes widened dramatically, as if they might bulge from their sockets. “But he’s Lycan…”
“Our domains differ, yet I’ll at least listen to his pitch. If he veers into treachery,” I retrieved the scroll from the surface, “I’ll uncover the motive first, then retaliate.”
“Understood, Alpha.” He nodded, pivoting to depart, but I halted him.
“Before you go, stay alert, and notify the sentries as well. For whatever cause, this abrupt visit unsettles me.”
“Lycan Kael has arrived!” The sentinel proclaimed while swinging open the massive oak doors. I remained seated on my throne, eyes fixed on the entrance, anticipating Kael’s entry.
As he stepped inside, my scrutiny locked onto him, assessing like a predator eyeing its quarry. He didn’t strike me as menacing, but caution was still essential.
“Lycan Kael,” I addressed as I rose from my seat and advanced toward him. “Welcome to the Mountain Dew Pack,” I stated, injecting a modicum of warmth into my otherwise gruff tone.
“Alpha Ronan,” he grinned, extending his hand for a clasp. “The honor is mine. I appreciate your hospitality and apologize for the unannounced appearance.”
I eyed his proffered hand, hesitant at first. “No harm done,” I replied, gripping it solidly. His frame tensed slightly under the pressure; I held his stare intently.
I pondered how this could be the Lycan King. He seemed rather fragile. Regardless, it wasn’t my concern.
He pulled back, managing a grin. “I have to admit, the Mountain Dew Pack is stunning.”
“Naturally,” I responded, mirroring a grin. “What prompts this visit?”
“To propose an alliance with your pack, of course,” he answered promptly, his gaze piercing mine. My attention flicked to his escorts—they were equipped, yet they posed no apparent danger; oddly, they all came across as… overly unassuming? For a Lycan venturing into werewolf lands, I’d anticipated more grandeur.
“I see,” I acknowledged with a nod. “An alliance. Why target the Mountain Dew Pack, if I may inquire?”
“I’ve learned your pack excels in commerce, and you hold the premier standing across the entire territory.” I let out a robust chuckle—it felt odd receiving praise from another male.
“Well,” I shrugged, “that’s accurate. But in the Lycan domain, is everything stable?”
“No,” he shook his head, a scowl forming. “It’s quite a lengthy tale.”
“Oh,” I raised an eyebrow. “In that event, perhaps you and your entourage should rest this evening. We can convene tomorrow?”
“That sounds ideal,” he concurred. Then he raked a hand through his locks. “Alpha Ronan, might I request a guided tour of your palace?”
Now both eyebrows lifted; his plea came out of nowhere. “Well,” I cleared my throat, “certainly, why not.”
“Luca!” I summoned my trusted guard, who hurried over promptly.
“Alpha?”
“See to Lycan Kael properly; he’s a distinguished visitor,” I instructed, glancing at Kael, who straightened before smiling. “Then escort him to fine accommodations for himself and his men.”
“Of course, Alpha.” Luca dipped his head and approached Kael. “Lycan Kael,” he bowed, “I’ll be your guide.”
“Thank you, Alpha Ronan.” Kael beamed.
“Naturally.”
The doors parted as we proceeded outward; upon exiting the throne room, I spotted Elara standing next to Cael, her expression one of sheer astonishment. She appeared unsteady—I wondered what troubled her.
“Elara?” I called gently, my demeanor shifting instantly. I both cherished and resented her profound influence over me. “What brings you here?” I inquired, closing the gap and placing a hand on her shoulder to offer comfort for whatever ailed her.
“Just out for a stroll,” she smiled. “Felt weary and thought I’d check on you briefly, until Cael mentioned you had visitors.”
Oh—my wolf swelled with satisfaction. Yet despite her fatigue claim, something felt off. She wasn’t fine… not in the least.
“Very well,” I chose to overlook it, avoiding any push that might spark a dispute, as was our pattern. “I do have affairs to manage,” I indicated Kael, who lingered observing us. “Lycan Kael has come calling.”
“Welcome to our pack, Lycan Kael,” she offered with a faint smile that failed to light her eyes. Something was amiss, but I’d probe later.
“Thank you,” I overheard Kael respond from behind. “Miss Elara?” he appended, as though verifying or pondering her identity.
Following a brief exchange between Elara and me, she departed. I observed her heading down the corridor toward her rooms. A frown settled on my face once she vanished.
I turned to Kael. “I’ll take my leave now; Luca will assist you, along with the servants.” Without awaiting a reply, I made for my office. I required solitude to reflect.
First, on Kael’s unexpected appearance.
Second, on Elara’s peculiar conduct. Likely, she shared my unease about the Lycan’s presence.