The Alpha's Prize

Tension and Meetings

           The next morning, I opened my eyes to the soft light seeping through the cream-colored curtains. I hadn't slept very well, waking up with a start at every little noise that came through our door. I was worried that Soren or my parents would try something, so I was on edge all night.

       Unlike a certain male, who slept snoring all night. That man sleeps like a dead bear when he's tired! I chuckled to myself and slipped out of bed. I knew he'd be waking up soon, as the meeting started at 9:30.

       I shuffled through my clothes, settling on a white blouse and a tight black mid-skirt with a belt. I entered the bathroom, washing my face and applying some makeup. I dusted some blush on my cheeks, following that with some highlighter. I left my hair down in its natural waves. Getting dressed, I stared in the mirror.

     'You can do this. It's just a meeting. Be formal and firm. Simple! Don't let people upset you, keep a cool head and a clear mind. See the reason behind accusations and pleas.' 

    Satisfied, I exited the bathroom and realized that Calik was still in bed. It was currently 9:20. I growled and ripped the blanket off of his sleeping form.

   "Calik! I thought you were up forever ago! Get your ass out of bed and get ready!" This scared the shit out of him, and he flew out of bed, tripping over sheets and fumbling his way to the bathroom.

   "Dammit, woman, wake me up nicer next time, I had a rough night and...." I didn't hear the rest of his grumbling as he shut the door, still half asleep. I just chuckled at my mate; he wasn't much of a morning person.

    "Hurry it up, I'll be downstairs waiting for you." With that, I left the room and followed the stairs to the parlor. There was breakfast being served, and many people crowded around, taking advantage of the refreshments waiting out. I followed suit, grabbing a small glass plate and filling it with bits of fruit and pastries. 

     I had no idea where the meeting would take place, so I just waited, snacking on my simple breakfast. After what seemed like hours, Calik made his appearance beside me. He looked exhausted but cleaned up nicely.

    "I see you're still tired after your fun little argument last night." I chuckled as we started walking down one of the many halls. He looked at me questioningly, so I elaborated.

    "You ended up getting drunk and started fighting with a group of equally as wasted young men about who was faster, males or females. I had to drag you away and humble the poor kid before you ripped each other's throats out." I didn't get a chance to hear his grumbled reply as we entered a huge room, filled with chairs and tables.

       A raised platform stood at the back, where the leaders would take turns discussing alliances and feuds. I was continuously surprised at the amount of expensive decor that adorned this place. Already, there were many seats filled, with more filling up. Calik said that we had designated seating, so we needn't worry about finding a spot. He showed me to our seats, and we settled to wait for the meeting to start. 

    A few moments later, a very tall old man stepped up on the pedestal. 

    "Welcome, Alphas and Lunas. I am marking the start of the annual Wolf Meeting. We have an exciting day ahead of us!" and he started listing off new Alphas and new Lunas. With every name called, there was a round of applause and welcome. I didn't know any of the names, but I clapped out of politeness. 

     "Now, for a very special Luna that has joined Kallistar's Pack, Luna Elara Winslow!" I cringed at the collective gasp within the room, standing up as was instructed. Hundreds of eyes were on me in shock as the applaud slowly rose up to a roar.