Winter Wolves

Chapter Three

I looked at the stranger, his expression serious. "Do you really believe that?"

He shrugged. "It's what I've heard. The king is a powerful man, but even he needs someone to share his life with. Someone who understands him and stands by his side."

I pondered his words, feeling a strange mix of curiosity and skepticism. "I suppose it's possible. But it still seems like a fairy tale to me."

The stranger smiled gently. "Sometimes, fairy tales have a way of coming true when you least expect them."

Before I could respond, the doors to the balcony opened once more, and a royal servant stepped out. "The king requested everyone's presence in the ballroom. He is about to make an announcement."

My heart skipped a beat. "An announcement?"

The servant nodded. "Yes, please follow me."

I glanced at the stranger, who gave me an encouraging nod. "Go on. It seems your night is about to get even more interesting."

With a deep breath, I followed the servant back into the ballroom. The crowd parted as we made our way through, and I could feel their curious gazes on me. The servant led me to a spot near the front, where I had a clear view of the stage.

King Alaric Thorne stood on the stage, his commanding presence drawing everyone's attention. He raised a hand, and the room fell silent. "Esteemed guests, thank you for joining us tonight," he began, his voice strong and clear. "I have an important announcement to make."

He paused, his gaze sweeping over the crowd. "As you know, the annual year-end celebration is a time for us to come together and reflect on the past year. But this year, I have decided to add a new tradition. Next year, we will be holding a Luna contest to find a suitable mate and future queen. The new Luna and future queen will be announced at next year's year-end celebration. If you have any questions, please speak with your pack representatives. The contestants will be announced at a later date once they have all been chosen."

A murmur of excitement and curiosity rippled through the crowd. King Alaric continued, "Each member of my court will select a champion they believe will make the best mate and queen. These champions will compete in a series of challenges to prove their worthiness. The winner will not only become my queen but will also share in the responsibilities of ruling this kingdom."

I felt a mix of emotions—excitement, curiosity, and a hint of apprehension. The idea of a contest to find a queen was both intriguing and daunting. I know that I won't be participating, but next year is starting to look like it will be a lot of fun. I am surprised we haven't heard any rumors of this beforehand. The king's court must have known before tonight or maybe this is also a surprise for them as well.

King Alaric's gaze met mine briefly, and I felt a shiver run down my spine. "I look forward to seeing the strength and resilience of our people on display. Enjoy the rest of the evening, and may it be a night to remember."

With that, he stepped down from the stage, and the crowd slowly returned to their conversations, the atmosphere buzzing with excitement.

Maxine found me in the crowd, her eyes wide with excitement. "Did you hear that? A Luna contest! This is going to be incredible!"

I nodded, still processing the announcement. "Yes, it certainly will be."

I wonder what benefits the packs will get out of this contest. There has never been anything like this in the past, as far as I know.

Maxine's eyes sparkled with curiosity. "By the way, who was that stranger you were talking to earlier? He seemed quite interested in you."

I shrugged, feeling a bit embarrassed. "I have no idea. I accidentally bumped into him while trying to hide in the shadows. We talked for a bit, but I didn't get his name. He seemed nice, though." She winked at me, "maybe he will take you home tonight."

I couldn't help but giggle. I have known Max for a long time. She has always been a flirt, but she knows that has never been me. "I don't think he like me that much."

"Yea, okay." I could clearly see her roll her eyes under her mask. "Did you even see the way he was looking at you?"

She just shook her head, knowing this was a losing battle. I was a hopeless romantic, and I wanted to be wined and dined. I wanted flowers and poems. I wanted to be swept off my feet. I wanted the love I caught a glimpse of when I saw my father look at my mom. No, I didn't just want it, I needed it. I needed to feel like my heart would break if we were apart for more than a moment. I needed to know that he loved me just as much as I loved him with every ounce of my soul. I would not settle for anything less than a true love story. As much as I loved Max, it's the one thing she has never been able to understand. I think if she ever found her mate she would know exactly what I meant.

Because while finding your true mate is rare, I have had the chance to see it in real life. It isn't just some fairy tale or a silly girl's dream. My parents had been mates, and they would go to the ends of the earth for each other. They had never spent a night apart.

Maxine sighed, her eyes softening. "I get it, really. You want the real deal, the kind of love that makes your heart race and your soul sing. And you deserve that."

I smiled, grateful for her understanding. "Thanks, Max. I know you mean well. Maybe one day, you'll find your own true mate and understand what I mean."

She laughed, a light, carefree sound. "Maybe. But until then, I'll keep having fun and enjoying life. You never know what might happen."

As the night went on, we mingled with the other guests, enjoying the festivities. The announcement of the Luna contest had everyone buzzing with excitement, and I couldn't help but wonder what this meant for the future of our kingdom. "Oh gods," Max leaned on my shoulder. "My feet are killing me." "Mine too, we should think about heading home soon."

As the night drew to a close, Max and I decided it was time to head home. We made our way through the crowd, exchanging goodbyes with friends and acquaintances. Just as we reached the exit, a figure in a black sheep mask stepped forward, blocking our path.

"Evelyn," he said, his voice low and mysterious. "This is for you." He handed me an envelope sealed with the king's emblem. Our fingers brushed ever so slightly as I took the envelope, my heart racing with curiosity and anticipation. I couldn't tell if the tingles running through my body were from him or the letter. "What is this about?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper. I have had far too much to drink tonight to be thinking clearly.

He shook his head, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. "Read it in the morning," he replied. "I'll be seeing you again real soon."

He helped us into the car, his presence lingering in the air even after he had closed the door. As we drove through the quiet streets, Max turned to me, her eyes wide with curiosity.

"What did he mean by that?" she asked, her voice filled with intrigue.

I shook my head, clutching the envelope tightly. "I have no idea," I admitted, my mind racing with possibilities.