Luna Elara

Chapter 2

Kael's POV

*Few hours back*

The chief judge, Jude, slammed his fist on the table, the sound echoing through the council chamber. "We respect your position, Alpha Kael, but the council can no longer tolerate this!"

"You're making a mockery of our laws! And while it may demonstrate your power, it only reveals the weakness of our system. The law is absolute, Kael. You must present a wife to the council within one month!" His voice was sharp, his words like daggers.

"One month? I've ruled for three years and haven't found a wife. How will shortening the time make my search more effective?" I asked, feigning indifference.

Jude was using the council's presence to challenge me, but his courage would vanish the moment the meeting ended. I wouldn't give him the satisfaction of a reaction.

"It will force you to prioritize, Alpha Kael," one of the council members said. "Other packs have expressed their displeasure. They threaten to withdraw their alliances."

"Nonsense! We don't need their help. If they want to leave, let them!" I snapped, anger rising. I wouldn't bow to their empty threats.

"You're right, Kael. They may not send armies, but they contribute to our economy. We'll crumble if you remain stubborn, and you'll regret your pride!" Jude retorted, forcing me to acknowledge the situation's severity.

"Watch your tone, old man," I hissed, my voice low and dangerous. "I could silence you permanently, and no one would question it." The tension in the room thickened.

"Enough! We must find a solution. Arguing won't help. Let's set aside rank and work together," Shawn, my second-in-command, said, silencing the room.

It was hard to stay calm with Jude's constant goading. He resented my rule and my ability to act with impunity. But this topic was particularly irritating.

"I've been trying," I said, softening my tone. "This is my pack. I can't choose a Luna in haste."

"What about the women you've been with? Are they all unsuitable?" Shawn asked.

"I need someone who meets my standards. Not just any Alpha's mate," I said, looking directly at Jude. "I need a woman worthy of Alpha Kael Blackwood." I emphasized each word.

"And what are these standards?" Jude asked.

"She must be a Luna to my pack, a mother to my heir, and a wife to me. I haven't found a wife yet, but she must be the other two. She must serve me in every way."

"Good. What do you plan to do with only a month left?"

"My best. I'll keep trying, and if nothing happens, I'll continue," I said firmly.

"That's not enough, Alpha Kael. We need a plan before the month ends, or I can't imagine the consequences."

Silence filled the room before Jude spoke again. I remembered my arrangement with Pearl, who was bringing women to my chambers. Thanks to these old men, I would be late.

"Use the Harvest Feast. Observe, converse, and find someone who meets your standards," Jude suggested, and others nodded.

"Is that all?" I asked, raising an eyebrow.

"We're trying to help," Shawn said, sensing my anger. "Attend the ball at Storm pack. Alpha Drake invited you early to tour his territory. It would be wise to accept, considering your search and his sister's availability."

"I have my own feast to prepare. I can't leave my pack," I retorted.

"It's a one-day event. It won't hurt anything," he said, leaving me no choice.

"Fine. Jude and Shawn, you'll accompany me tomorrow, along with Seraphina and some guards."

I left the meeting and headed to my chambers. Pearl didn't look pleased, but the women behind her seemed eager.

Most people thought women wanted luxury, but these craved pleasure. I chuckled at their flirtatious moves and lustful stares. If they knew how dangerous I was, they might beg for their lives.

"Two hours, Alpha Kael. We've been waiting," Pearl complained, while the women licked their lips.

"Your girls don't seem to mind," I smirked, and she narrowed her eyes. "Follow me, we need to talk."

I heard her warn the women to stay put. Then, her heels clicked on the floor as she followed me.

"Why were you late?" she asked.

"I wanted to update you. No more women unless I order it. The council is interfering."

"What do you mean? Don't they have enough to criticize without your women?" she mumbled.

"Watch your tongue," I hissed.

She stood by the door, watching me pace.

"What do they want?"

"A wife," I said, piquing her interest.

"What's the plan? You can't be tied down, and the vows are strict," she said, unfazed.

"Of course not. They're counting on the feast, and I'm counting on it to cause chaos," I smirked, imagining the possibilities.

"I pity the poor virgin!" She whispered.