Aria Vale
The next four days pass in a blur of preparation. Elder Moira drills me on ceremony protocols, what to expect, how to respond. Sierra helps me with the traditional aspects, explaining meanings and significance. And Lucian steals moments when he can, brief touches and reassurances that we're in this together.
The academy transforms as visiting packs arrive. Guest quarters fill with Alphas and their entourages. The dining hall becomes a political minefield where seating arrangements matter more than food. And everywhere I go, I feel eyes watching, assessing, judging.
"You're doing fine," Sierra assures me as we walk to yet another pre ceremony obligation. "You look confident, composed. Everything an Alpha's mate should be."
"I don't feel confident. I feel like I'm going to thro
