We reached Ironvale Pack more quickly than I had expected. The convoy slowed as we approached massive iron gates emblazoned with a snarling wolf’s head–far more intimidating than Ravenhollows elegant designs.
The gates swung open without any visible signal, allowing our vehicles to proceed into a sprawling compound. Unlike the more naturalistic layout of Ravenhollow’s grounds, Ironvale was designed with military precision–buildings arranged in strict geometric patterns, training grounds visible in the distance, everything radiating power and control rather than harmony with nature.
As our car pulled to a stop, Kaius turned to me. “Ready to make your debut as Luna of the soon–to–be Alpha King?”
I smoothed my hands over my dress, suddenly self–conscious. “Do I look the part?”
His eyes traveled over me with an intensity that made me flush. “Perfectly.”
The car door opened, and Kaius stepped out first, extending his hand to help me follow. I was acutely aware of the many eyes watching us–wolves in various positions throughout the compound had paused in their activities to observe our arrival.
Kaius moved to lift me into his arms again, but I placed a hand on his chest. “I don’t think you can walk on your own yet.”
“I’ll manage, I insisted quietly.
$
“Shy?” He raised an eyebrow, amusement playing at the corners of his mouth.
“If I admit I am shy, would you let me walk on my own?” I countered
“Of course.”
“Then I am very shy, and I would like to be on my feet when meeting with ‘them‘ for the first time.” I needed to appear strong, especially here where my mother had been treated as less than nothing.
He inclined his head slightly, offering his arm instead. I took it gratefully, appreciating both his understanding and the subtle support as we moved forward to meet the welcoming committee that had assembled before us.
A tall, broad–shouldered man with salt–and–pepper hair stepped forward, bowing deeply to Kaius. “Alpha Kaius, welcome to Ironvale. I am Commander Dominic, acting leader in the absence of… leadership.”
His careful phrasing didn’t escape me. He was deliberately avoiding mentioning Alaric or his death.
Dominic turned to me, his bow just as respectful. “Luna Elowen, I heard so much about you.”
“Good things, I hope?” I replied, trying to mask my nervousness with humor.
“Shocking things,” he admitted with unexpected candor. “Of course rumors are mostly lies with only an element of truth, but you are as beautiful as it had been rumored.”
I felt Kaius stiffen slightly beside me, his possessiveness evident in the subtle tightening of his grip on my arm. “Thank you,” I said simply, unsure how else to respond to such a direct compliment.
“We have prepared the Alpha’s quarters for your stay,” Dominic continued, gesturing toward the largest building in the compound.
Would you like a tour of the facilities first, or would you prefer to rest from your journey?”
“A tour would be appreciated,” Kaius replied before I could respond.’d like to see what changes have been made since my last visit.”
1/3
Chapter 117
Dominic nodded, leading us away from the vehicles and into the heat of the compound. As we walked, he provided commentary on various facilities–training grounds, housing units, the pack’s shared spaces.
I noticed differences from Ravenhollow immediately; where our pack home was built to blend with the forest surroundings, this place stood in stark contrast to the natural world – all hard angles and imposing structures that emphasized dominance rather than
coexistence.
More striking was the reaction of the pack members we passed. At Ravenhollow, wolves would acknowledge Kaius with respect but continue their activities. Here, everyone stopped completely, heads bowed, eyes averted until we had passed. It wasn’t respect I was seeing–it was fear.
“The pack has been preparing for the funeral and coronation ceremonies,” Dominic explained as we approached a large open area where workers were constructing what appeared to be a raised platform. “Everything will be ready on schedule.”
I was about to ask about the ceremonies when a familiar voice cut through the air.
“I think I would take over from here.” Thalia strode toward us, her expression unreadable. “I am Elder Thalia.”
Dominic bowed immediately, deeper than he had for either Kaius or me. “Welcome back Elder.”
“You could leave us now,” she dismissed him with a casual wave of her hand..
I couldn’t help the flash of irritation that surged through me. “You arrived fast,” I observed, making no effort to hide my displeasure.
It does not seem like you are thrilled to see that,” Thalia replied, he tone bordering on smug.
“Could you show us to our room?” Kaius intervened, his hand squeezing my arm in silent warning.
“Of course, is just over there.” Thalia gestured toward the main building.
“Thank you,” Kaius said, already guiding me in that direction.
“Where are you going?” Thalia called after us.
Kaius paused, turning to face her with carefully controlled patience. To settle into our room.”
“We need to make plans for the crowning ritual; we are already behind schedule,” she pressed, taking a step toward us.
“That can wait; Elowen is tired and she needs her rest.” His tone brooked no argument, even from an elder.
Thalia’s lips thinned with displeasure, but she nodded stiffly. “As you wish, Alpha. I’ll return in two hours to discuss p
As we walked away, I leaned closer to Kaius. “I really don’t like her.
“I noticed,” he replied dryly. “Try not to start a war before I’m officially crowned, hmm?”
I rolled my eyes but couldn’t help the small smile that tugged at my lips. “I’ll do my best,”
preparations.”
