Golden Alpha

Chapter 6 - New Moon Fall

The slowly descending sun's golden glow illuminated Tala's bedroom where she stood before her dresser mirror contemplating her choice of attire for the evening. She wanted something that would be appropriate for the opening ceremony, yet was also practical enough for the food, dance and revelry that would immediately follow.

She finally settled on a pair of simple black leggings and a deep blue plush sweater that reached just past her hips, and its sleeves were just long enough to cover her hands if she needed. The cashmere felt luxurious against her skin, and its simple elegance wouldn't outshine the occasion. It still got cold after the sun went down so it would have the added perk of keeping her nice and warm. Adding a beaded belt to tie it all together, she spared a final glance at her visage, ensuring that she looked okay.

Jill and Michelle were also making their own preparations. Jill would be working in the first aid tent and while there were always hopes that no accidents would happen, it was better to have someone there who was not needed, than to have no one when they were. Michelle would be judging the Singer Pup dance contest for the younger children, as well as giving some improvised lessons to anyone who felt the urge to learn, or who brought their own young ones to join in the fun.

The three piled into the car, the engine's hum a reassuring backdrop to Tala's scattered thoughts. The drive was filled with a mix of chatter and excitement, the air alive with the promise of the evening to come. As they arrived at the pack lodge, the saw that the expansive grounds were filled with a kaleidoscope of color, scent and sound. These grounds were normally maintained in a manicured, spartan state to keep it always ready for just these sorts of occasions. Tonight, the estate had been transformed into a vibrant symphony of life, every inch filled with laughter, music and the aromas of mouthwatering dishes.

Michelle parked the car and before the engine's rumble faded, Tala was out the door, already dashing towards the heart of the festivities. Jill's amused voice called after her, "Remember, we'll find you later!"

Tala waved in acknowledgement without looking back, her singular focus was finding Mika.

Amidst the crowd, she spotted her best friend's familiar smile, and the sound of her laughter drew Tala like a moth to a flame. They locked eyes and without needing a word, they were off, weaving through the sea of people, hand in hand so they didn't lose each other. The excitement and energy are contagious and electric, with the anticipation of the opening ceremony charging the very air around everyone.

Tala and Mika found a vantage point near the stage, ensuring they had a clear view of the Alpha Council as they took their positions. Tala took a moment to glance around, she had never been this close to the Council in her life with the exception of that one meeting with Alpha Gray. The festival grounds were a masterpiece of creativity and dedication. Banners depicting the earth and moon fluttered gently in the breeze and lanterns awaited the moment they would cast their warm light upon the night.

The clearing felt tangibly alive with the collective heartbeat of the pack and greater community. Mika and Tala sat side by side and they had to do their best to stifle gales of laughter when they spotted Charlie standing behind the council. He looked like he had been mugged by some jet-setting corporate playboy's closet, the obviously expensive getup much more refined than anything they'd seen him wear before.

A stern shushing sound from nearby silenced their giggles and they exchanged a glance, still barely containing their amusement. The Alpha Council stepped forward and the crowd hushed to complete silence in anticipation. Alpha Gray advanced to the fore, their presence commanding in their ceremonial garb and a sense of anticipation grew as their gaze swept over the assembly.