Alpha's Embrace

Hell is Coming

“Where the f**k is she?” Vularak roared as he stormed out of Alysslin’s room, slamming the door in his wake.

Brock was running up the corridor. “I cannot find her.”

Vularak glared at him. “She is around here somewhere. I want every inch of Azmar searched until she is found.” He scowled. “I want all the guards questioned. Someone had to have seen her.”

Brock nodded. “Don’t worry, we will find her. No matter where she has gone.” Brock stormed off. Vularak watched him. He cursed again before he began his rounds of questioning the guards. Someone was going to be very sorry.

“Timothy, are you absolutely certain you haven’t seen Alysslin?” Vularak asked, trying to maintain a hold on his rising anger.

“I am certain, sire, I haven’t seen her at all since the day of rainfall,” Timothy acknowledged.

Vularak only nodded and turned on his heel. “Go about your duties.” He called over his shoulder to Timothy.

“Yes, sire.” Timothy quickly walked back to his duty station, knowing Vularak was fuming.

“Sire, you wanted to see us.” An older man asked Vularak as he rounded the corner into another corridor.

“Ah yes, Dr. Berkley, have you or Ash seen Alysslin? No one seems to have seen her since the rainfall we had a few days ago.” Vularak answered, trying to keep his voice calm even though he was raging mad. When he finds Alysslin she will have a lot to answer for. They do not have the time to spend looking for her.

“I haven’t seen her at all, sire.” Berkley looked at Ash. “What about you?”

Ash shook his head vehemently. “No, sire, I haven’t seen her.” He stated, addressing Vularak.

“Thank you, you both can go back to medical.” Vularak ordered harshly and walked off. Berkley and Ash didn’t hesitate as the quickly walked down the corridor.

“Sire.” Brock called out as he jogged up to Vularak.

“Did you find her?”

“No, but I think you should talk to Indigo. I feel he is not being entirely truthful with me.” Brock explained.

“I should have known. He always had a soft spot for Alysslin.” Vularak sneered as he turned and headed back to the main doors of the compound. Brock seethed as he walked beside Vularak. He didn’t like the idea of another having any type of feelings for what is rightfully his. They reached the main doors. “Indigo.”

Indigo straightened when he saw Vularak walking towards him. “Sire.”

“Have you seen Alysslin?” Vularak could literally hear Indigo’s heart rate quicken. “And need I remind you not to lie to me. Because if I find out you have been holding back information regarding my daughter there will be hell to pay.”

Indigo swallowed hard as he began to sweat. “I did see her sire.”

“You told me you didn’t see her.” Brock bellowed as he took a step towards him, but Vularak held up a hand, forestalling his advancement.

“When did you see her last? Vularak asked. His eyes bore into Indigo.

“After the rainfall we had. She left after it stopped.”

“And did you see her return to the compound?” Vularak continued. Indigo shook his head. Vularak snapped as he was standing in front of Indigo in an instant with his hand wrapped around his throat. “And you didn’t think to notify anyone that she had not returned?”

Brock stood off to the side of Vularak with his arms crossed at his chest. He wanted to rip the man’s throat out. He knew that he couldn’t say anything because Vularak was the one questioning Indigo. However, he was hoping Vularak would put Indigo’s punishment and torture in his hands.

“Brock, gather a search party. I want Alysslin found. And then have Malik come relieve Indigo of his post and make it quick.”

“Of course, sire, right away.” Brock walked away grumbling he wanted to teach Indigo a lesson.

Within minutes, a guard came up to Vularak. “Sire, Brock said you needed me to relieve this post.”

“Yes Malik, no one enters or leaves without notifying me. Is that understood?”

“Yes, sire.” Malik took the spot that was vacated by Indigo, refusing to ask what had happened. He learned long ago not to question his master.

Vularak pushed Indigo into the other two awaiting guards that were to escort him. “Take him to the dungeon and watch him. They both nodded and quickly left. Vularak looked back at Malik. “Brock is gathering a search party and has my permission to leave the compound. You can take orders from him.” Malik nodded and watched Vularak storm off. He knew whatever Alysslin did was not good. He sure didn’t want to be around when she was found. It was actually in her best interest at this moment to stay hidden wherever she was.

“I told you Jessamine, you cannot go with us.” Brock stated exasperated as he

rolled his eyes.

“Why the hell not? Alysslin is my friend. I have every right to go.” Jessamine nearly yelled as she placed her hands on her hips.

Brock faced her. “You haven’t been trained for something like this. You are still in your training. You know I speak the truth. We cannot safely and successfully look for Alysslin if we have to protect you as well.”

“Is that why Lauriel is going?” Brock was losing his patience and his blood was beginning to boil. Who the hell does Jessamine think she is…undermining his command? “Lauriel has finished her training. She is also a friend of Alysslin’s, remember.” Jessamine was about to protest some more but he held up his hand. “This matter is closed. I do not have time to argue about this. I have more pressing matters at hand.” He walked away.

“Jessamine, don’t worry. I have Alysslin’s best interests at heart. We will find her.” Lauriel said softly, trying to sooth her friend.

“I know you do, Lauriel. I just hate to be stuck here when she is out there somewhere. Possibly hurt.”

Lauriel hugged her tightly. “I know, and at least one of us is going to make sure Alysslin is okay. I am not so sure I want her to have anything to do with Brock. He is power hungry and I fear for Alysslin.” She whispered so only Jessamine could hear what she was saying, because she knew Jessamine had the same fears.

Jessamine nodded as she took her friend's hands. “Me too. Be safe and watch your back.” She whispered in return.

“If I find her and if I can. I will warn her to stay away. I don’t trust Vularak anymore than I trust brock.” Jessamine nodded her agreement.

“If you two are finished. Lauriel, we need to head out.” Brock called out, irritated.

“I am coming, Brock.” She looked at Jessamine one last time before following Brock and the rest of the search party to the main doors.

“Malik, we are heading out. Not sure when we will return, but I am sure Vularak told you no one would enter and no one leaves.” Brock said sternly.

“Yes, Sir, he did tell me.” Malik responded, trying to remain calm. Brock scared the hell out of him. Brock nodded satisfied and the search party left the compound. The giant doors closed behind them.

The ceremony was winding down and Tovias couldn’t stop looking at Alysslin. She was talking to Methyrth and she seemed to be having a good time. Even her smile said everything. Damn, she was just simply breathtaking. Tovias concluded the mating ceremony and now everyone can enjoy themselves mingling and drinking. Tovias walked towards Alysslin. Alysslin looked at him and their eyes met. She could see the depth of his desire and she slowly smiled. Making his heart beat faster, his breath was coming out heavily. Methyrth saw him coming and she wisely took her leave and walked away.

“Did you enjoy the ceremony?” Tovias asked softly. His eyes caressed her angelic face.

Alysslin nodded. “I did. I never witnessed a ceremony like that.”

“It is a mating ceremony. Binding the two together. In packs like ours, we will eventually find our lifelong mate. And that is very serious to us.” He explained.

“I see. And you haven’t found a mate yet? I find that hard to believe.” She saw his eyes go blank for a moment and she suddenly regretted even asking the question.

Before he could answer, Methyrth walked up to them. “Alpha, I put some clothes on your kitchen table for Alysslin.”

He didn’t look at her. He kept his eyes fixated on Alysslin. “Thank you Methyrth.” He answered.

“Yes, thank you. I do appreciate it.”

“Of course, you are welcome.” Methyrth quickly took her leave, knowing there was something going on between the two.

Tovias took her arm above the shoulder and started walking. She had no choice but to start walking. “Come.” He said softly. She noticed they were heading to his house. She was beginning to wonder if he was angry with her. He noticed she hadn’t said as they walked to his house. They walked up the front porch steps and he looked at her. “Alysslin, are you okay?” He asked as he opened the front door.

She looked at him as he propelled her into the house, closing the door with his foot. “I am okay. I just feel maybe you are angry with me.”

He frowned and on impulse his fingers touched the side of her face. His fingers caressed her cheek. “Why would you think that?”

She shrugged almost in defeat, but she tried to remain strong. For some reason, having him angry at her was nearly her undoing and she couldn’t explain that feeling. “I suppose because of what I said a few moments ago. I can tell that it hit you hard and for that I am so sorry. I never meant to hurt you.” He shook his head and took her hand. Then he led her to the kitchen. She saw the clothes folded neatly on the table. Tovias gently pushed her into one of the chairs. He pulled out a chair and put it in front of her, then sat down. Tovias met her concerned gaze and it wrenched his heart. “I’ll put your mind at ease. I am not angry or upset with you.” He visibly saw her relax. He looked away briefly and she could tell he was trying to compose himself. Tovias looked back at her and she had c****d her head to one side to regard him. Her beautiful blue eyes held a compassion that he hadn’t seen or felt in a long time. “I did find my mate.” He began, then closed his eyes.

“I found Nissa almost eight years ago.” He rubbed his hands over his face. She didn’t hesitate and she reached out and took his hand. He seemed to relax as she gave him what comfort she could. “We had our mating ceremony and everything was good. We were planning on having children.” Tovias sighed heavily. “She was killed five years ago in a raid.”

Alysslin frowned as her heart broke for him. “I am so sorry, Tovias. That must have been devastating.”

“It was. My world shattered when she was killed. I never thought I would ever recover.” He met her gaze and her eyes were soft and held warmth that made him catch his breath. “If it wasn’t for my Beta Vad, I might have fallen into an even deeper depression.”

"At least he was here to help you through the pain. What happened to her?” When she saw his eyes cloud with anguish, she immediately regretted her question. “Oh Tovias, I am sorry. You do not have to answer.” Alysslin stood and went to the counter. She doesn’t understand how she could be jealous of a dead woman…but she is.

He watched her for a moment. Her back was rigid and he wondered what she was thinking about. “It is okay, Alysslin. Nissa was killed in a turf war against a group of sleuths.” When she looked at him with confusion. He elaborated. “A group of bears.”

Her elegant eyebrows arched in realization. “The men that confronted me in the forest.” She said more as a statement than a question.

He nodded grimly. “The one and the same.” Tovias watched her for a moment before he stood and went to where she was.

She looked at him. “Can I ask you something, Tovias?” He nodded. “If they killed Nissa, why haven’t you gone on a quest of vengeance? I would have.”

Tovias studied her for a moment. “Oh, I will, I am biding my time. Besides, his sleuths are strong and I don’t want to risk anyone in my pack unless we are ready. The time will come when Zirf and his kind will fall. Believe me, my pack hasn’t been the only ones his sleuths have tormented.”

“So will you have allies in your quest against him?” She asked and he could tell she was genuinely curious.

“Let’s just say talks are going on. We are hoping for some peace treaties. Since we all would be better off without Zirf and his sleuths. We need a lot to come to our aid. Zirf’s sleuths are nearly in the hundreds.”

Her elegant eyebrows arched again. “I had no idea they were so numerous.”

Tovias nodded grimly. “Unfortunately, they are. Hence the reason for allies. My pack is half of that and could not take them on alone.” Alysslin nodded with understanding. “Come, let me show you where you will be staying.” She followed him out of the kitchen and up the winding staircase to the second floor. He opened a door and allowed her to enter before he followed her.

The room was spacious and had its own bathroom and a set of double glass doors that led onto a balcony. She looked around the room in awe. It was so much larger than her room at the compound. She looked at him and she saw he was waiting for her reaction to the room. “This is beautiful.”

Tovias slowly smiled as he leaned against the wall with his arms crossed at his massive chest. She sucked in her breath because it was the very essence of masculinity. However, she knew that nothing could ever become of them. They lived in two different worlds. Besides, once he finds out who and what her father is, he will demand that she leave. “I am glad you like it. My room is just down the hall should you need anything.” He winked, making her blush something fierce, and his smile grew bigger. “On another note, will you be okay on your own? I do have paperwork that needs to be finished.”

Alysslin nodded. “I will be okay. Perhaps I will find Methyrth and see if she is busy.”

“Good, I shouldn’t be too long.” Tovias said as his eyes caressed her face.

She smiled shyly. “Please, don’t rush on my account. I don’t want to trouble you.”

He frowned as he stepped towards her. “It is no trouble. Besides, is it so wrong that I enjoy your company?”

Alysslin’s gaze met his and she saw the truth. Her heart nearly convulsed. She steadied her breathing. “Well, I enjoy your company as well.”

“Good.” He whispered, then held out his hand to her. “Walk me to my office.” She took his hand and he led her out of her room, closing the door after them. They walked back down the staircase to a set of double doors. “Be careful is all I ask.” She nodded and watched him walk in his office. With one last long look at her, he closed the doors.

Alysslin walked out of the house and stood on the porch. She didn’t see Methyrth. Then, all of a sudden, she was staring at the face of a very angry Ersae. Alysslin took a step back, not sure what to expect. Ersae nearly growled at her as she pointed a finger at

Alysslin. “I know what you are up to. All women like you are the same.”

“I don’t know what you are talking about, Ersae.” Alysslin responded, a little dumbfounded that she would confront her with so many people present.

Ersae sneered as she pointed a finger at Alysslin. “Don’t play that naïve card with me. It won’t work. I know exactly what you are all about. Tovias can’t see you for what you really are.”

Alysslin’s back stiffened, her normal blue eyes turned menacing. Ersae actually took a step back as she watched Alysslin’s eyes cloud over to almost silver. She had never seen that happen. “And just what am I?” Alysslin asked, her normal velvet voice now harsher and dripping with venom.

Ersae was not one to back down from confrontation. She glared at her even though she was quaking inside. She had never been really scared of anyone but Alysslin, there was something almost terrifying about her. “You come here and you manipulate and tempt Tovias. He may not see it but I do.” Ersae took a deep breath and exhaled it. “Tovias and I are destined to be mated. You need to steer clear of him. Do you understand?”

Before Alysslin could retort, Methyrth came bounding up the stairs. “There you are, Alysslin.” She looked at Ersae. “Stop causing trouble. Everyone knows you are not Tovias’ intended mate, so stop acting like you are.” Ersae stiffened and stormed off. Methyrth looked at Alysslin and smiled boldly. “She definitely needs to be brought down her pedestal. She thinks Tovias belongs to her.” She shook her head. “And Tovias has told her multiple times that they aren’t fated to be mated.”

Alysslin arched a brow. “How do you know that?”

She laughed as she waived a hand at that. “Believe me, everyone knows. Everyone heard him tell her. All of us can tell he is tired of repeating himself, but Ersae just won’t get it.” Alysslin said nothing. She wondered how far someone like Ersae would go to get what she wanted. Methyrth headed down the steps. “Come on.”

Alysslin followed her. “Where are we going?”

Methyrth looked over her shoulder. “A surprise.” Alysslin merely shrugged and followed her. They walked not too far outside of the pack territory. They came to what looked like a hole in the side of the mountain. The entrance had a torch on each side of it. Methyrth stopped just before the entrance and looked at Alysslin. She could tell Alysslin was intrigued as she watched her step closer and try to peer into the darkness. Methyrth walked by her and into the entrance. She stopped. “Come on, it’s okay.”

Alysslin finally followed Methyrth inside what she thought was a giant cave. There were more torches lined along the sides of the cave. There were markings on the walls. Alysslin ran her hand over some of the markings. “What is this place, Methyrth?”

“It’s a burial chamber. This is where we have buried out past Alpha’s and Luna’s.”

Alysslin looked at her. “Oh wow.” She whispered as she looked around. “Is this where Nissa is buried as well?” She asked a little hesitantly.

Methyrth arched a brow. “Didn’t realize he spoke about Nissa to you? That has been a touchy subject with Alpha Tovias. However, to answer your question. Yes, it was deemed since she was supposed to be Luna it was only fitting that she be laid to rest with the others.”

Alysslin nodded. “That makes sense even though I do not know her. I think it was fitting.”

“Really, mind if I ask why? Like you said you did not know her and you didn’t know us.” She looked at Methyrth as she tried to put it into words. “I suppose it is because of Tovias. The way he spoke of her. I could tell he cared for her. He also seems like a fitting Alpha. I mean I have been welcomed here and I am not one of you. That just proves what a great Alpha he is and is respected by all of his pack.”

Methyrth stared at her then slowly smiled. “Well said. Now I can see why the Alpha is so taken with you.” Alysslin didn’t know what to say to that.

“What are you doing in here?” Alysslin swung around at the sound of a very angry Tovias. Methyrth quickly bowed her head. “Answer me, NOW.” Alysslin was about to say something but without looking at her. He held up his hand to silence her. His golden eyes were fierce as he glared at Methyrth.

With her head still lowered, Methyrth answered in a hushed voice. Her voice was trembling. “I was showing Alysslin around, Alpha.” Her hands were clinched together and her knuckles were turning white.

“You know that the burial site is sacred. Only the members of our pack can enter here.’ His voice was so menacing that Alysslin slowly retreated until her back was against the wall. Since she has been here. Tovias has been nothing but gracious and accommodating. She had yet to see him lose his temper until now and it scared her to the core. He snapped his fingers and two burly men appeared and escorted Methyrth out of the cave. She hadn’t met them before. She figured they were some of the guards that she had seen around the compound.

Finally, Tovias looked at her and he was still wide-eyed over what had just transpired. His gaze was not as harsh. His gaze softened, but she was still leery. He held out his hand to her and she just looked at it. He frowned slightly. “I am sorry if I scared you, Alysslin. Come, let’s go back to the compound.” She hesitated a moment longer before placing her hand in his. He brought her to his side and kissed her temple. The action surprised her but she didn’t object. He led her out of the cave and they headed into the compound.

Alysslin noticed everyone was gathered in the center of the compound. It was then she noticed Methyrth tied to two pillars. One hand tied to one pillar and the other hand tied to the other pillar. Her arms were stretched out and her chest was bare of any clothing.

Alysslin finally found her voice. “What is going on?”

Tovias looked down at her. “Methyrth knows our laws and she deliberately broke one of them. She has to be punished.”

Alysslin frowned. She didn’t want Methyrth punished because of her. Tovias touched her cheek. “She is well aware of the consequences.” He wanted to kiss her frown away but he didn’t think that would be wanted. “Why don’t you go wait in my house. I will join you shortly.” She could only nod and she started walking away. His hand slowly caressing hers before releasing it. Alysslin walked towards Tovias’ house. She met Methyrth’s gaze and Methyrth gave her a reassuring smile. Not that it made Alysslin feel any better.

Tovias waited until Alysslin was safely in his house before they commenced with the punishment. He didn’t want her to witness what was about to happen. Tovias walked to where Vad was standing. Vad looked at his best friend. “You sure about this, Tovias?”

“Yes, besides, she broke pack law. If I don’t punish her, that will look bad and everyone will think I am going soft.”

Vad nodded and looked back at where Methyrth was tied. “You know she will think you are a tyrant.”

Tovias looked at his long-time friend. “Who, Methyrth? She should expect to be punished after breaking pack law.”

Vad arced a brow. “I am not talking about Methyrth. I was speaking of Alysslin.”

Tovias sighed. “Yeah, I will have to try to smooth things over and try to make her understand. She is not one of us so she does not understand pack law.”

“But you are hoping she will want to stay?” When Tovias looked at him sharply. Vad chuckled. “I have seen the way you looked at her and the way you didn’t let her out of your sight. I am actually surprised you let her go back to the house.”

Tovias looked away. “I didn’t want her to witness this. Besides, I only came over to tell you to begin and I was going to talk to Alysslin.”

Vad nodded. “How many lashes?”

“Ten lashes, then have the doctor take care of the wounds. Her wolf will let her heal quickly but I want to make sure she is seen.” Vad nodded again and watched Tovias head towards his house.