**Tiana's POV**
As we stepped out of the dining room through another door different from the one I had walked in through. The night breeze was cool against my skin. We came out to the entrance of a garden that was bathed in the soft glow of the moonlight. The garden was beautiful, with lawns that were properly trimmed and blooming flowers.
"Would you like to take a walk in the garden?" Theo asked, his voice gentle.
"Sure," I replied, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. It seemed as if Theo was trying to make up for the time that Fiona had wasted or maybe he just wanted to spend time with me.
We started down one of the garden paths, the gravel crunching softly beneath our feet. The scent of roses and other flowers filled the air.
"I thought you might like to learn more about our traditions. We have quite a few, and they’re an important part of our culture and identity as werewolves."
I nodded, eager to hear more. I could literally listen to his deep voice all day. "I'd love to learn about them."
He smiled, clearly pleased by my interest. "Well, one of our oldest traditions is the Moonlight Hunt. It's a hunt that takes place on the night of the full moon. All members of the pack participate, and it's seen as a way to honour our ancestors and strengthen our bond with each other."
"That sounds intense," I said, imagining the pack moving as one under the full moon. I knew that he would have invited me to come for the next one, but I did not have my wolf yet.
"It can be," Theo agreed. "But it's also a celebration. After the hunt, we gather around a bonfire, share our stories, and feast on what we've caught.
I could see the pride in his eyes as he spoke, and it made me feel a little envious of the deep sense of belonging he had with his pack. "That sounds amazing," I said softly. "The moonlight hunt happened a few days ago right?" I asked.
"Yes. That's why we had a bonfire."
"We also have the Rite of Passage," Theo continued. "When a young wolf comes of age, they must complete a series of trials to prove their strength, wisdom, and loyalty to the pack. These trials are both physical and mental, so the elders can test their abilities and prepare them for the responsibilities of adulthood."
"What kind of trials?" I asked, intrigued.
"It varies," he said. "Some might involve hunting or tracking, others might test their endurance or ability to solve problems under pressure. The final trial is always a solo hunt, where they must bring back a significant kill to the pack."
I shivered slightly, both from the cool night air and the thought of going to hunt for something substantial. I wondered what kind of kill they'd even consider substantial. "That sounds... daunting."
"It can be," Theo admitted. "But it's also a rite of passage that every wolf looks forward to. It's a way to prove themselves and earn their place in the pack."
As we walked, the path led us to a small clearing surrounded by tall hedges. In the center was a stone bench, and Theo gestured for us to sit. I sat down, feeling the cool stone beneath me, and looked up at the stars that twinkled overhead.
Theo sat beside me and tucked a loose strand of my hair. I felt butterflies in my stomach.
"We also have the Mating Ceremony," he said after a moment. "When two wolves decide to become mates, it's a deeply spiritual and sacred event. The ceremony is held under the full moon, with the entire pack as witnesses. It's a celebration of their bond and commitment to each other."
"That sounds beautiful," I said, imagining the scene in my mind.
"It is," Theo agreed. "The ceremony involves a series of rituals, including the exchange of vows and a symbolic hunt. The couple must hunt together and share their catch with the pack, symbolizing their unity and partnership."
I nodded and smiled.
"Have you...' I trailed off, not bothering to ask the question when I remembered Layla saying that Theo did not have a mate yet.
"No, I've not participated in a mating ceremony myself if that was what you wanted to ask. I am hoping to find a mate soon though," he said.
"I hope you do," I smiled.
"You have such rich customs," I said. "It's amazing to hear about them."
Theo smiled, clearly pleased. "I'm glad you think so. Our traditions are what keep us connected to our ancestors. We have to keep it going from generation to generation. Pass it on to the younger ones. "
We sat in comfortable silence for a moment, the only sounds were the gentle rustling of leaves and the distant hoot of an owl. I felt a sense of peace settling over me, a feeling I hadn't experienced in a long time.
Theo's voice broke the silence. "I know it can be overwhelming, especially when you're new to all this. But I'd really love for you to find your place in the pack and participate in traditions with us.
His words touched me deeply, "Thank you, Theo. That means a lot to me."
He reached out and took my hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "You're welcome."
I squeezed his hand back, feeling a warmth spread through me.
What was this man doing to me? Why am I feeling this way?
Theo's expression turned serious. "There's another tradition I should tell you about. It's called the Alpha's Challenge. When an Alpha feels it's time to step down, they hold a challenge to find their successor. Any wolf who believes they have the strength and leadership to be Alpha can participate."
"So it's not about who's the heir?"
"It is. As an heir, you will go through that for formalities. This tradition actually started because not all alpha's had a firstborn son, worthy enough in the eyes of the people."
"Have you ever thought about taking the challenge?" I asked, curious.
Theo hesitated, then nodded. "Yes, I have. But it's not something to be taken lightly. The challenge is gruelling, and it requires more than just physical strength. An Alpha must have the wisdom, courage, and compassion to lead the pack. My father will end up forcing me though."
"I think you would make a great Alpha," I said sincerely. "You have all that it takes."
He looked at me, surprised and touched. "Thank you, Tiana. That means a lot coming from you."
Eventually, we made our way back to the main house. Theo walked me to my room, his presence comforting and reassuring.
"Thank you for tonight," I said as we reached my door. "I really enjoyed learning about your traditions."
"I'm glad," he replied.
I smiled, feeling a sense of contentment I hadn't felt in a long time. "Goodnight, Theo."
"Goodnight, Tiana." He said and kissed the back of my hand…