The Luna's Fated Choice

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Nineteen: New Beginnings .3

Over the pack lands, the sun's promising glow casts over the gathered Alphas and Lunas. Kiadaria and Joshua stand before them and can't believe this day is happening, but prepare to make the claim they have risked their lives and souls for. They buzz with excitement and nerves, as they prepare to reveal what returning from the Shadowlands has meant: the way it changes everything, the journey and secrets that are now revealed.

"Alpha's and Lunas," Kiadaria uses a clear, strong voice full of the power of her newfound strength. "We have gathered you all to share what has happened. Prophesy and destiny have crowned Joshua and me, and this tale now changes the course of all our kind, forever."

Joshua steps forward, his eyes locked on the assembly. He notices the way people wonder why he is in the supportive role to Kiadaria; they've known him as a powerful alpha... and he still is, but in complete submission to his queen. "We have walked the paths of the Shadowlands, and we stand now before you forever changed by understanding of our purpose. We are the chosen ones, now destined to lead all of wolf kind into a new era of peace and prosperity."

The Alphas and Lunas look at them with expressions of skepticism. Their doubt and curiosity are evident, but Kiadaria and Joshua are not perturbed. They'd known they would need to convince them, to make them see the truth that they have been reborn in.

So, they begin to share the events of the journey and the ancient prophesies, and reveal the signs that mark them as the rightful King and Queen of all wolves. The more they reveal, the more Kiadaria can sense the shifting alliance. The Alphas and Lunas are engaged, leaning forward, and full of interest.

Kiadaria speaks, full of conviction. "We have survived, and now the markings are forever on our bodies, the visions we shared, and the journey we completed have opened us to our true selves. We are no longer mere Luna and Alpha, but King and Queen, the chosen ones."

Joshua nods his agreement. "We have received divine direction, now full of a new vision that leads to a better future, where our packs are united, strong, and prosperous."

The hush in the room is deafening. The Alphas and Lunas think over all that has been revealed. The understanding is unfolding. Slow nods of agreement wave through the gathered body of beings.

"I believe them." Says one of the older Lunas." I have seen the signs myself, and I know that they are the chosen ones."

An Alpha clears his throat, his voice deep and full of conviction. "We have all noted the way they work together. We've seen them rule since they were teenagers, bringing the Rising Moon pack to the most successful pack. We all had our issues with Alpha Joshua, but his change to a more compassionate and wise leader shocked us all. They are the leaders that wolf kind needs."

The group murmurs in agreement. Kiadaria and Joshua are relieved, having won them all over. All in attendance have accepted that they are the rightful Queen and King. But just as they succeed, a voice rings out from the back of the gathering.

"I don't believe them." A tall and impressive Alpha claims. "They're a pair of foolish dreamers, and they think they can waltz in here and propose to change our very traditions passed by the Mother Goddess herself!"

Kiadaria and Joshua roll their eyes as they recognize the voice of Alpha Ryker. He is a stubborn traditionalist. He's always resisted change and hated that Kiadaria and Joshua became Alpha and Luna at such a young age, banishing his old friend Alpha Alexander in the process.

"We've heard enough of your childish and delusional prophecies and visions." He sneers with disdain dripping from his voice. "What we need is strength and power and not some daydream of a better future. Reality is before us."

The room once more becomes so silent you could hear the dropping of a pin. The Alphas and Lunas are becoming unsure. Kiadaria steels herself to respond, knowing she must convince Ryker or lose the support of many gathered.

"We aren't talking about change, simply to do it because it's in our power, but this new way of living more closely honors the Mother Goddess. Men corrupted her traditions, and this change honors her true wish, while embracing the future." She keeps her voice calm and measured.

Joshua immediately follows with supportive words. "Ryker, we possess true strength because we know that our strength comes not out of dominance and aggression, but that the Mother Goddess reigns in compassion and cooperation."

Ryker snarls, resistant to becoming bested as he feels a bit foolish. He works to save face, determined to be right. "You're just a pair of fools! You can't let them sway you with their soft words and gentle ways! It's a fairytale."

But Kiadaira and Joshua stand firm. After all they've gone through, their conviction and confidence can not be shaken. They know the majority supports them and that their vision is the right one. The Mother Goddess is on their side.

And then, in a surprising change of events, one of the oldest and wisest Lunas spoke up.

"I remember the ancient stories." The luna's voice is filled with wisdom. "Stories of a time when all packs were united and strong. Our leaders the luna's and they reigned with wisdom and compassion for all."

The elder Luna turns to look at Kiadaria, her eyes shining with deep understanding. "I believe these two are the ones we once knew we were waiting for. They have the hearts of the original Queen Lunas and King Alphas before them."

Ryker scoffs in disagreement, but the elder Luna continues. "I call for a vote, not because I believe destiny can be vetoed but because I am sure The Mother Goddess will reign in your hearts and you all will make the right decision."

The room erupts in applause, and the Alphas and Lunas debate and discuss. Kiadaria and Joshua's hearts are full of faith, knowing the elder is correct, the Mother Goddess wills their reign. Finally, the vote is called, and one by one, the Alphas and Lunas step forward to cast their acceptance or their disagreement. The votes are counted...

And then, the result is announced...

"The majority has spoken!" The elder Luna speaks, her voice full of warmth and emotion. "The will of The Mother Goddess stands! Kiadaria and Joshua are our Queen and King, to guide us on a new path!"

They erupt with cheers. The Lunas cry, never believing a day would come like this. They are surrounded and congratulated. People bow and pledge their loyalty to the new matriarchy and Queen Luna.

As they bask in the celebration, Kiadaria and Joshua know that their journey may be far from over. The true work has only just begun, as they must be the example of a new way and a new world.