To Have And To Hold

Reflection Of Character...

Chapter Sixteen: Reflection Of Character...

URSULA

Standing at the edge of the water, I looked out over the crystal blue lake, going over every detail of Sahar and Igor’s foiled attempt to regain control. It has been a long time since I have felt camaraderie among sorceresses like I experienced today. Support of one another for the right purpose, a purpose I have longed my whole life to serve. That’s why I joined The Chosen, because in my naivety of youth, I thought what they stood for was peace and unity. But I was so very wrong...

After The Chosen was disbanded, I took time to reflect on my life and then tried my best to make up for my grave error in judgement by helping rogues, who, like me, wanted to live a quiet, peaceful life, even if it was among the many lone wolves who had darkness in their hearts, rebelling against their own, choosing the nomad life instead of a pack life.

I found contentment in my life and work, living in solitude in the mountains until I made another grave error in judgement—I befriended Sahar, a young witch with great powers who made me believe she wanted to help those in need as well, but in the end was much like The Chosen—falsehood and trickery revealed proving Sahar had the same self-serving black heart I had escaped from.

When I realized that Sahar was trying to recruit me for Igor, I harshly informed her that I would never join his cause. That was when she cast her spell, rendering me unconscious and turning the beloved amulet my mother gave me when I came of age into a weapon, giving Igor complete control of my life, enslaving me to do his every bidding.

I had given up on salvation, never expecting to be saved from Igor’s hold. Instead, I had prepared myself for death, deciding to do one last good deed when I took Maxim and Anabelle to The Council, where I was surprised to receive salvation and freedom by The Council and The Fairy Queen, Tatiana.

Of course, I had heard stories over the years of Tatiana’s great powers. Those stories, however, paled in comparison to what I witnessed and experienced. The Fairy Queen saved me with such ease, leaving me in her debt and grateful to Tatiana for the remainder of my days.

Initially, I wanted nothing more than to disappear again into a life of complete solitude, but when I saw Persephone and Reina, our deep connection of old was instantly renewed. They were so insistent that I come back with them—Maxim, as well—that I now found myself at Crescent Moon, standing at the water’s edge wondering how it was that I’ve never felt so happy and content in of all places...a wolf pack?

“Ursula?” Reina sympathetically called out, “Persephone and I were trying to give you a moment, keeping our distance, but we are worried about you. You look so forlorn, dear. We hope you aren’t contemplating leaving Crescent Moon. It would not only break our hearts but leave us worried about your safety considering the current situation.”

I stoically informed Reina that I had made no such plans, but did find myself questioning my own powers, especially after all I had witnessed, expressing how impressed I was at the combined sorcery to be had at Crescent Moon.

Turning to face my old friends, who were now standing close, I tearfully added, “Thank you both for what you did for me today. You and your littlest sister keep saving this old witch’s life.”

“That’s what friends are for, Ursula,” Persephone benevolently replied, “There’s power to be had in numbers, which is another reason why we are here now. We are all in agreement—Raven, Tatiana, Loa, Reina, and myself—if you are up to it and willing, join us for a little training together tomorrow. See what you think about combining your magic with ours.”

I paused for a long moment, confused by Persephone’s proposition, finally voicing my question, “You want me—to work with all of you? I can understand helping with potions, but my magic—”

“Will be an incredible asset to the little team we have been fortunate enough to create,” Reina enthused, “Something you will see for yourself tomorrow if you say yes. What do you say, dear?”

I found myself both enamored and intrigued by the idea, “I’m not sure what benefit I can be, but I would love to join you.”

“Hello, ladies,” Alpha Nicholas kindly called out from the top of the path, “I hope Madeline and I aren’t interrupting you, but we are in hopes that Ursula will allow us to show her the cottage we were discussing earlier.”

Her eyes darting between them and me, Persephone curiously asked, “Cottage? What cottage?”

I reluctantly explained to my old friend that Alpha Nicholas graciously informed me earlier that he had papers drawn up for me to officially become a Crescent Moon. Not only that, but he also told me that there was a little cottage not far from Persephone and Reina’s homes that had been empty for some time, kindly offering it to me to live in and call my own.

Persephone and Reina both turned to beam at Alpha Nicholas, excitedly clapping their hands as I leaned to the side, bringing him into view to eye him wearily at his little trickery. I knew what he was doing—and so did he—impishly grinning at me as he and Alpha Madeline slowly strolled towards us, making me laugh under my breath in response.

Alpha Nicholas was not only handsome in his formidable stature and bearded face with stunning bright blue eyes and blonde hair, but I found him to be the kindest Alpha I’ve ever met, admiring him greatly already and appreciative of his caring treatment of me.

His mate, Alpha Madeline, who was walking beside him, matched in kindness and great beauty with long, dark hair and fit build. I admired her as well, especially upon learning that she was the leader of the Rogue Eight, appreciating the strength she represented in what was typically seen as a man’s world...

When they reached us, I hesitantly informed the girls, “Before you two start making plans to help me decorate, I should let you know—I haven’t decided whether or not I’m staying yet.”

Persephone stared at me for a long moment, knowing me well enough to know my reasons, running her hands down the skirt of her long teal cotton dress, delicately replying, “It breaks my heart knowing you have lived in solitude all this time, Ursula. Reina and I never should have allowed the loss of contact and friendship between us. And it will shatter my heart if you decide to leave now—please stay.”

Taking in a hastened breath, I replied with great unease, “While it has been nice to be among friends again, I never expected—well, any of this. I’ve been on my own so long, Persephone. I fear I’m too old to change my ways now. Besides, based on my experiences outside the barriers of solitude, I’m not sure that being alone isn’t the best choice for me.”

Madeline and Nicholas came to stand behind Persephone and Reina, with the beautiful dark-haired Alpha of Mystic Fire pleasantly stating, “A very wise sorceress that I know and love dearly always says that timing is everything. When you are ready for it, it will come. Maybe today was a sign, Ursula. Maybe it’s time for a change.”

“Madeline is right. And so is Tati, who, along with Aruna, instilled that quote in her heart,” Reina gently argued, “My sisters and I did the same as you after The Chosen was disbanded, Ursula. Granted, we had one another, but we relegated ourselves to a life of solitude from the world around us, as well as the people in it.”

“And much like you, every now and then, Tati would assist Lorenzo and Soren as needed,” Persephone thoughtfully said, “Until Nicholas’ father and Julien found us, bringing The Power of Three here to Crescent Moon.”

Tears built up in Reina’s eyes, as she nervously played with the hemmed waist of her long, dark green shirred skirted dress, sorrowfully relaying, “We were also victims of betrayal by our own kind, Ursula, who not only took us away from our lives here but took away our memories of those we loved as well, relegating us back to a life of solitude for fourteen years.”

“Fortunately, Tati’s visions led us back home, regaining our memories and our life. Though at first, Reina and I were reluctant, just as you are reluctant now,” Persephone knowingly stated, “We almost stopped ourselves from living a life that we always dreamed of, Ursula, surrounded by people who stand for everything we have always wanted sorcery to stand for as well—peace, unity, and good—in a place that we can truly call home—Crescent Moon.”

Her adoring gaze on Nicholas and Madeline, Reina devotedly added, “And most of all, we almost stopped ourselves from the love that can so easily be found here. In a place so special, that people from so many packs—so many walks of life—find themselves drawn to be here. To become part of a family led by these two incredible souls.”

Alpha Madeline warmly smiled, as did Alpha Nicholas before wrapping his arms around Reina to embrace her tightly, placing a kiss on the side of her head before whispering with heartfelt adoration, “Love you, Aunt Ro.”

“I hope we have succeeded in swaying you, Ursula,” Persephone sincerely stated, “Because nothing would mean more to us than to have you become part of our family.”

My emotions running high and my anxiousness even higher, I uncomfortably murmured, “You’ve definitely given me a lot to think about, though I’m not surprised—you and Reina were always extraordinary debaters.”

In a hopeful tone, Alpha Nicholas suggested, “Why don’t we go take a look at the cottage? See if you think it is a place you can make into a home here at Crescent Moon?”

Following my silent approving nod, Alpha Nicholas and Alpha Madeline had Persephone take us to the little two-bedroom stone cottage that was a very short distance from hers and Reina’s homes. There was a beautifully laid stone path that led up to the door with overgrown greenery on the sides. I could already envision the colorful flowers that would beautifully contrast against the grey rock. Peering over to the side of the large yard, the first thought that came to my mind was there was a spot to the back left that was perfect to grow various herbs and other medicinal flowers for my potions.

Those thoughts made me hesitate entering the house—because I realized that part of me wanted to do just that—make Crescent Moon home. And truthfully, that kind of change frightened me...

Slowly walking in, I looked around the quaint front room with a small fireplace in the center. Even covered in many years’ worth of dust, I couldn’t deny that I found myself enamored with it. So much so, a smile crossed my face as I could already picture it all cleaned up and decorated—my heart already embedding itself in the little cottage...

Reina, who was behind me, leaned down to sweetly whisper in my ear, “I can see it in your face already, Ursula. Allow me to be the first to say, welcome home, my dear.”

“Allow Nicholas and I to say it next,” Alpha Madeline sweetly urged, “Please say yes, Ursula.”

“Yes,” I tearfully rasped out, my eyes peering around the room again before turning my attention to the four beautiful souls behind me, “Thank you for your acceptance, generosity, and goodwill towards me. I promise to do everything I can to help in your cause and what you and Crescent Moon stand for, my Alphas. Thank you for gifting me what I have always wanted—a true place to call home.”

All three women thrust themselves forward, hugging me as Alpha Nicholas sincerely replied, “Welcome home, Ursula.”

***************

ANABELLE

Meeting Spiros’ family was both heartwarming and enlightening and I found myself instantly adoring them, though I wish it had been under different circumstances...

Both Luna and Auntie stayed to settle me into my room after I left the hospital. Wanting to make sure I got some much-needed sleep, Auntie made me some tea, adding a little something to help me stay calm and relaxed. And Luna insisted that Spiros stay with me, sending him down the hall to shower and change as his hasty appearance by my side left him still covered in dirt from Sebastian's farm.

Helping me change into some comfortable clothes that Lorelei kindly brought up, Luna and Auntie stated that they would send dinner up for us both, as they didn’t think I would feel up to joining everyone this evening. But I told them that despite what happened today, I really wanted to attend, asking if they could help me figure out something to wear, as everyone would probably be dressing nice.

Auntie offered to make me a simple dress, asking what style I liked. I was honest in my reply. I’ve never owned a dress, always feeling more comfortable in pants, so I didn’t know. Always kind in her replies, Auntie said that we would figure it out together and not to worry.

The moment Spiros came back in, I received more kisses on my forehead—which I was growing very fond of—before Luna and Auntie took their leave, saying they would come back later to see how I was feeling.

After they closed the door, Spiros laid down on the bed beside me, his arms continuing to be the most comforting feeling in the world. I snuggled into him, taking in his amazing rosewood scent while he turned on his side, looking at me with a tenderness in his eyes that made both me and my wolf completely content.

“You definitely won my brothers over, Belles,” Spiros affectionately breathed out, “I like that one, by the way—Gidget is a little offensive to me—cute—but still offensive. Kinda surprised how taken Valentin is with you. It usually takes him some time to warm up to anyone new. Finn is just fun. A pain in the ass most of the time, but always good natured.”

It wasn’t hard to see which brother Spiros was closest to, his tone of deep respect and reverence thick as he continued, “And Bas—well, he wasn’t lying about being the most amenable of my brothers. Hardest worker out of the lot of us too. He’s put his whole life into the farm, building it up from nothing, all on his own. That’s why I try to go out and help him as much as I can. But again, don’t let any of them fool you. You will find they can be quite vicious in their playful torture of the babies in the family. I’m afraid that includes you, especially as you are officially the youngest now, and apparently loved more than me.”

“I think I can handle them and I enjoyed their playfulness,” I sincerely replied, “You’re lucky, Spiros. Your family is wonderful. I love how close you are to your mom and your dad is so easy-going and loving. And together—well, they’re amazing.”

“I am incredibly lucky—for many reasons—and so are you, you know. My whole family already loves you, Anabelle,” Spiros adoringly replied, “Almost as much as I do. That means a lot to me because in my mind, family is everything.”

Auntie’s potion was suddenly making me very drowsy, my eyes heavy as my heartfelt feelings spilled out in a long ramble before I could even think about stopping them, “Family means everything to me too. You know, I always thought love at first sight was so silly, until I met you. But I get it now. I love you more than I’ve ever loved anything else in the world, Spiros. You are my entire heart—well, most of it. Maxim, your family, Auntie, and Luna—I’ve fallen in love with them too. Not in the same way, but they have a part of my heart too. Oh, and I like Carson. He’s so nice and I thought it was sweet that he checked on me at the hospital and called me one of his favorite, brown-eyed girls. And Tink and Beast—wow, I’ve never seen anything like them! And Remi and Lorelei. Everyone here is so nice. I adore them all. How many people does that make that I adore? But you—you’re the one that has made all my dreams come true, Spiros. I never thought I would find a mind a mate, especially not one as kind as you and so handsome—gorgeous even. I think I said I love you—did I say I love you?”

I heard Spiros let out a heavy breath that I think was a chuckle. I couldn’t really tell. I was so sleepy. But I definitely felt his lips graze across mine before Spiros softly kissed me, blowing out against them as I drifted off to sleep, his last words sweetly whispered in my ear, “I love you too, Anabelle. You are and forever will be my world. For now, just rest for me, little love. I’ll be right here when you wake.”

************

NICHOLAS

It didn’t come as a surprise when Spiros messaged asking to speak with me in Mother’s wing. I had expected his request since he first met Anabelle and felt that I already knew what he was going to ask. He was walking out Anabelle’s room when I arrived, his normally lighthearted brown eyes looking determined as he politely greeted me and we made our way towards the couch in the great room...

Sitting down, I kindly relayed, “Spiros, you have been one of my most trusted border warriors from the very beginning of my reign and one of the most level-headed. So, I hope you understand when I tell you—and believe me, I know what you’re feeling because I went through it with Madeline—I know you want to be in the front line of warriors that goes after Igor, but my answer will be no, especially if your emotions are driving your decisions.”

“That’s why I wanted to talk with you now, Alpha,” Spiros ardently replied, “I do want to be in the front line—more than anything and for a multitude of reasons, especially after everything that Anabelle has endured at Igor’s hand. And I hope that you do know me well enough to know that I can put aside my emotions. I wouldn’t do anything that would jeopardize myself or anyone else.”

There was no hesitation in his words as he loyally continued, “But, I do understand if you choose not to allow me to participate in the battle because of the circumstances. I will respect your wishes if that is the case, even if there is nothing I have ever wanted more. Igor must be stopped. That’s the main priority. There can be no distractions from our overall goal, and if my being there will deter from the mission, then I will gladly stay here, continuing to help protect our borders. But I hope you trust me enough to know that if you do allow me to be in that front line, I will abide by your every order in the planned attack.”

Shaking my head, I softly laughed, “It would appear I had a great lapse in judgement about how this conversation would go. I feel quite ashamed that I momentarily forgot why you are one of my most trusted warriors, Spiros. Thank you for reminding me.”

“I love Anabelle, Alpha, and I will do whatever it takes to protect her,” Spiros wholeheartedly stated, “I won’t lie to you—what happened today made me feel completely helpless, which both scared and infuriated me inside like nothing I’ve ever felt in my life. I wanted to kill Igor for all the ways he has hurt my little love, physically and emotionally. But I also love our Crescent Moons and will always put them and their needs above my own. I just wanted you to know that I’m at your disposal however you need, but I also respect the job you do and the decisions you must make.”

“Noted with great respect, Spiros,” I proudly returned, “Again, thank you. I will keep you apprised of our plans. For now, I’m just going to order you to take care of your little love for me. Don’t worry about your patrols for the next few days.”

“An order isn’t necessary for that, but, yes, sir, and thank you for your generosity,” Spiros earnestly returned, standing up, “Speaking of which, I better get back. I promised Anabelle I would be there when she woke up, although based on her slowly drawn out but cute ramble before she fell asleep, I think Auntie’s potion may keep her out for a while yet. But after today, I would feel better keeping her in my sights and close to me. Thank you for taking the time to talk with me, Alpha.”

“Of course,” I cordially replied, shaking Spiros’ hand, “And privately, please just call me Nicholas.”

Spiros grinned, thanking me again before sprinting back towards Anabelle’s room. My eyes were still on the door as he shut it when Horacio quietly called out, “You’re fortunate as hell to have that warrior, Nicholas.”

I looked over to see Horacio leaned up against the entryway to the kitchen with a half-eaten sandwich in his hand, which he was waving at me, lightly admonishing, “I’ve been impressed with Spiros from the moment he and Anabelle met, which is why I’m currently having a hard time understanding how I haven’t known about him before—and why he isn’t of higher rank or for that matter, in the integrated army and your inner circle. I sure as hell would have him in ours if he was a Spirit Walker.”

My thoughtful gaze returning to door across the way, I couldn’t deny that I was having the same thoughts. Thoughts I had many times when it came to Spiros, ones I had even voiced to him, only to have him respectfully decline any offer for change in his mere border patrol warrior status. But maybe with Anabelle entering Spiros’ life—I could make him see that it was time for a change...