Legacy of the Wolf

Chapter Four

The morning of the Fall Festival dawned, cold and crisp. The early light filtered through Mira's window, casting her room in a soft glow. But Mira hardly noticed. She'd spent the night restless, replaying yesterday's revelations over and over in her mind. Her heart still ached from the realization that her parents had been killed—not by enemies or rogues, but by Alaric Blackclaw himself. The man she had grown up calling Alpha.

Now, Mira was being summoned by the very man who had destroyed her family, uprooted her life, and stolen her sense of belonging. The Blackwoods had delivered the message over breakfast with gentle words and careful expressions. Mira kept her composure, hiding her turmoil behind a blank mask. She'd learned long ago that emotions could betray, and right now, the last thing she wanted was for Alaric to suspect anything.

Taking a deep breath, she steadied herself and dressed carefully, selecting simple, dark clothing that wouldn't draw attention. Every movement was deliberate, every gesture calculated. She had to stay calm, to keep her thoughts clear. With a final look in the mirror, Mira composed herself, erasing any hint of the anger that smoldered beneath her skin. She would walk into Alaric's office as if nothing had changed.

The pack house was busy, with wolves bustling about preparing for the festival. She kept her head down, avoiding eye contact, making her way through the maze of hallways to the Alpha's office. It was a path she had walked many times over the years, but today, each step felt heavier, the familiar surroundings tainted by what she now knew.

Reaching the heavy oak door, she took a steadying breath and knocked.

"Enter," Alaric's voice commanded from within.

Mira stepped into the office, keeping her gaze steady. The Alpha's office was spacious, with tall windows framing the room and letting in a flood of morning light. Alaric sat behind his large, imposing desk, his dark eyes focused on her the moment she entered. He was a tall, formidable figure, with silver threading through his dark hair and a sharp gaze that had always demanded respect. The air in the room seemed to thicken with his presence, yet Mira didn't allow herself to feel intimidated. Not anymore.

"Mira," he began, his voice low but unyielding. "Thank you for coming."

She nodded, keeping her face neutral. "You called for me, Alpha."

Alaric's eyes held hers, assessing her with a look that was as scrutinizing as it was dismissive. "I did," he said. "As you know, tonight marks the start of the Gathering. Wolves from several neighboring packs will be joining us, and it's an important opportunity for our pack to maintain alliances."

His words seemed carefully chosen, and she had no doubt that there was more to his message than he was letting on.

"There's something we need to discuss," Alaric continued, his tone casual, almost disinterested, but Mira knew better. "I've been patient with you, Mira. You've had more chances than most. You were taken in by the Blackwoods, raised as one of our own, despite your... shortcomings."

Mira clenched her fists at her sides, careful not to let her frustration show. She held his gaze, remaining silent as he continued.

"Unfortunately," he said, "you have failed to prove yourself as a true member of this pack. Your trials—your failures—have shown that your wolf is... lacking." He leaned back, his expression cold and unyielding. "It's time we discuss your future."

Mira's chest tightened as she felt a cold dread settle over her. Despite the fury that burned beneath her skin, she forced herself to remain composed. "What do you mean, Alpha?"

Alaric studied her, his eyes narrowing slightly. "During the Gathering, several packs will have their Alphas and Betas here. One of these packs is looking for additional... assistance, a servant who can contribute in ways that do not require strength or skill. Since you lack both, I believe this is the best path forward for you."