Mark of the Goddess

Chapter 9 - Home - Part 2

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Once I woke up it was dark out, but I could still see the passing of trees upon trees upon boulders upon more trees. I felt myself become excited at the sight. I may have lived on the edge of a forest, but that edge just barely gave me room to run on the Pride territory. I couldn't help but roll down the window as I leaned my head out slightly. I took in all the new scents and sights. The air was chillier here on the mountains than it was in the Pride area. I felt a hand on the curve of my back. I turned to see Eldwin stretching his other arm.

“Welcome home, my little lily,” He said with a groggy voice. I turned to see the car behind us, that held my brother and friends. I waved out to them excitedly, when I heard a welcoming howl. “It would seem that the welcome party has arrived,” Eldwin chuckled. I knew that my smile never left my face. This was the longest smile I ever held. I wrapped my arms around Eldwin and nuzzled my face into his neck. 

“I can’t wait to meet everyone,” I spoke softly, trying to contain my excitement. 

“Would you like to run with me and see some of them?” He asked as he pulled my face to meet his. My heart was no longer thumping in my belly at the thought. I nodded in response without a second thought. Alex slowly brought the car to a halt. Causing the vehicle to stop behind us. 

“Alex, make sure that our guests are well taken care of please,” Eldwin said as he smacked Alex’s chest. Alex gave a slight cough at the sudden shock to his chest. 

“Yup. Sure thing, El,” He said as he rubbed his eyes. We piled out of the vehicle I was out first, followed by Eldwin, Skald and Tally. We were all excited to finally be around other wolves. I ran to my brother’s vehicle, just as he rolled down his window. 

“We are going for a run, to meet some of the pack. We will meet you at the… umm…” I looked over at Eldwin. 

“Pack house!” He said as he stripped his shirt off. 

“What he said.” L.J. grinned at that I have never seen him so happy.

“Ok, have fun girlie! We have to make those other she-wolves jealous!” Cassie said mischievously. I turned to see her poking her head out of the passenger window of the passenger’s seat. I giggled at her response. 

“No worries, Tes. Go have fun. You deserve it,” L.J. said as he rested his arm on the door. I planted a kiss on his cheek and darted back to Eldwin. Stripping off my own clothes, we raced into the forest. Shifting into our wolf forms. We yipped and nuzzled each other as we trotted. Now that I had a moment to actually look at Eldwin’s wolf form, I noticed how tall he was. He stood a good foot taller than me from our shoulders. I saw the happiness shimmering in those golden-silver orbs. He licked my nose lovingly. 

Eldwin led the way towards some of his pack members. There were five in total. I assumed they were a patrol group by the way they lowered their heads in submission. I could tell that they were speaking through the pack link, when they occasionally looked over at me and my wolf-dogs, then back to Eldwin. Skald ran up to the wolves and yipped at their chins playfully. Tally hung back, trying to hide behind me. The wolves would show their teeth in annoyance to Skald acting like a puppy. I internally giggled at the sight. I haven’t seen Skald act like this since his early puppy years. 

The wolves cautiously approached me. They were a bit timid and nervous at the sight of a new wolf. Not only that but Eldwin’s possessive growls had the warriors on edge. I huffed at Eldwin. His ears flicked back momentarily before lowering his tone to just a grumble. 

The wolves  began to sniff me before giving me playful welcome licks and nips around my cheeks and ears. I held my tail up in response. I was definitely not used to such attention. When they felt my discomfort, they slowly backed away from me. Eldwin lifted his head in a howl and led us in the direction we were originally going in by car. I felt like I belonged for once. Me at Eldwin’s side as we ran with other wolves. Skald and Tally not having any trouble keeping up with us. I haven't felt this in so long. I felt free. I felt safe. 

~~

As we approached, what I assume to be, the Pack house, Eldwin and I shifted while the other wolves turned to go back on their patrols. I took in the sight that was before me. It was a cabin?! No. A mansion?! A cabin mansion! There were ridged stone pillars that held up a roof over the front entrance. On top of that roof was what looked like a balcony. As I marveled at all the windows that went up an extra floor, I could see quite a lot of people up there. Suddenly my stomach twisted with anxiety. Eldwin took my hand. His touch eased away the anxiety but the nervousness was still there. 

“It’s alright, my little lily,” He said as he turned to me. The lights from the pack house illuminated all the best features of his face and torso. He brought me closer and embraced me with his strong arms. I shivered as a wave of arousal bloomed within me. He chuckled. “We can spend more time with just us after everyone sees you. Maybe a bath if you’d like.” His voice was seductive and his eyes almost glowing with lust. I couldn’t help but grin. 

“That sounds lovely, darling,” I said as I hugged him tighter. As I took in his sweet delicious scent, I felt something perk just below my navel. That’s when I remembered that we were still nude. I smiled at the length that was throbbing against my skin. “If we don’t hurry up and put on some clothes, I fear we might not make it to the bath,” I teased. He growled lustfully as his nails dug into my sides. Sending the sparks flying down my body to my core. I felt a small trickle of my juices run down my leg as my depths throbbed and begged for something to touch them. 

“As badly as I want to bend you over and plow you until you can’t walk, I think that it would be best for us to get all this over with,” Eldwin said with a low, needy growl in his tone. He leaned down to my ear. “Also, that scent of yours is making me wild right now. I hope you’re prepared for that.” His whisper sent another wave of ecstasy down my body. 

“EW!!” An unfamiliar voice squealed. Both our heads snapped in the direction of the voice. “Put these on already!” I watched as a young girl waved a bundle of clothes at us. Eldwin grabbed them and handed me a t-shirt and cotton shorts. 

“Hey, Ella, nice to see you again,” Eldwin said as he slipped on his pair of shorts. 

“Yeah, whatever. I don’t like seeing my big brother nude!” Ella almost shouted as she kept her eyes covered. “Also, I don’t need to be smelling what you guys want to do. So grooooooss!” I giggled as I quickly pulled on my clothes. “Can I open my eyes now? I’d like to meet my new sister, please.” 

“Yeah, yeah. Open,” Eldwin said as motioned his arms out to me. As if he was presenting me. Ella uncovered her eyes. They resembled Eldwin’s to a T. She had the same hair tone as him, but hers was a bit darker at the roots. She was wearing a long summer dress, with pink flowers speckled all over the pale yellow. She started to jump up and down. Squealing and clapping. I felt my eyes cross at her high pitched sound. She darted to me and wrapped me in a tight, breathtaking hug. Literally. 

“Uh, hi,” was all I could manage to get out. 

“Ella, you’re crushing my mate. Ease up!” Eldwin laughed. Ella reluctantly released her hug and just held her hands on my biceps. 

“Oh my goddess!! You are so hot! Eldwin! It’s about damn time you found her! She’s truly stunning!” Ella said with so much excitement that it was starting to become overwhelming. I felt my cheeks heat up at all her complements. I honestly didn’t know how to respond. 

“Well, I’m just glad that the goddess brought her to me,” Eldwin said as he looked into my eyes. I grinned up at him. 

“No. She brought you to me. She truly blessed us both,” I spoke happily. 

“Good! Now, let’s go up to the patio and meet everyone!” Ella said as she dragged me behind her. “We’ve already met your… uh… interesting brother and your friends. They are delightful. I never expected you to be friends with so many different species!” I let out a nervous chuckle, not really sure if her compliment was good or not. 

As we entered the Pack house, I noticed that it was very similar to the Pride house. For some reason it made me feel more comfortable. Differences being, the wood chandelier and wolf carvings. Marble was replaced by stone. It was breathtaking but not ‘Ella’s hugs’ breathtaking. Ella stopped and pointed to the right of us. 

“Ok, that’s where the pack goes to hang out and spend their free time,” Ella brought her pointer ahead of us. “That way is the kitchen, breakfast nook, and dining hall. There’s also a ball room too!” A ballroom?! I don’t think I’ve ever even been in one. “Don’t worry, we only use the ballroom for pack parties and holidays. Oh and over that way are the guest bedrooms.” I tried taking in everything Ella was saying, but she was talking too fast for me to truly register. I just simply nodded. Looking back at Eldwin, I mouthed Wow, so beautiful!! His face beamed with relief and satisfaction. He straightened himself up, looking proud. Before he could say anything, Ella was dragging me to the second floor. Paintings of wolves and horses lined the walls. There were a few portraits of past alphas. Each one looked intimidating. She told me that the second floor was for unclaimed warriors, but could double as extra guest rooms. Third floor was for the Beta and Delta wolves and their future families. Also for the Alpha’s parents and siblings.

“Well we have to stop here on this floor. This is where the balcony is,” Ella said with a much calmer voice. 

“Yes, thank you, Ella,” I said bowing my head. “It’s truly beautiful here.” 

“I’m so glad you think so, but for the fourth floor, that’s where I’ll let Eldwin take over,” she said with a wink. 

“You know, we can do a more advanced tour later on. I’m sure all your talking confused my little lily,” Eldwin spoke as he grabbed hold of my hand. Signaling Ella to release her grasp on me. 

“Oh no, it’s fine. I think your sister is very enthusiastic. I love that about a person. Just ask my friend Cassie,” I said grinning at Ella. Ella squeaked. 

“Oh yes! Cassie!! The were-fox. She’s so cool. I’d adopt her as my sister too, if I could. All these dumb older brothers put a damper on everything,” Ella’s happy demeaneor turned into a playful pout. I noticed Eldwin rolling his eyes. I couldn’t help but giggle. 

“Shall we, then?” Eldwin motioned his head towards some glass double doors, which lead to another set of double doors to the patio. I nodded and squeezed his hand as he escorted me through both doors. The sound of chatter filled my ears. Looking around the patio, I realized that it was huge. Four sets of outside furniture, a bar area, a stone and steel fire pit, and what looked like a small kitchen on the side. Everyone was mingling and getting to know each other. 

“Attention everyone!” Eldwin’s voice boomed excitedly. “I’d like to introduce to you, my mate and our new Silva!” All eyes turned as claps and hollers roared through the night. Eldwin brought me closer to the group of people. I saw L.J., Kosovo, and Cassie approach us from one side, as Eldwin’s pack members began to approach us. I felt like everything was closing in around me and I suddenly couldn’t control my breathing. I darted my eyes around at everyone, squeezing Eldwin’s hand tighter as I fought to not bolt away. It was happening too fast. 

“All of you! Back away from the Silva!” A female voice boomed. “You warriors should know better!” A woman, about the same height as me, pushed back some men and women that had gotten too close. Her hair was up in a braided bun, with diamonds speckled in it, making her grey highlights look more pronounced. She barely had any wrinkles on her face and her eyes were exact replicas of Eldwins. She turned to me. “I’m so sorry my dear. They mean no harm. They are just so excited to meet you.” Her voice soothed me slightly, but Eldwin’s hand let go of mine and brought me closer to him. “I am Silva Queen Naomi Feathermane. Eldwin and Elizabeth’s mother.” She bowed her head to me. 

“N-no need for apologies. I understand. I’m just not used to anything yet,” I laughed nervously. 

“Yes, that would be the fault of my Pride,” L.J.’s voice spoke apologetically. 

“It is alright. I can see that you already fit in and I know that you will knock someone on their behind if they misbehave.” Naomi chuckled. “These warriors need a strict Silva and so does their alpha.” We all laughed at her remark, but I was sure that she was mostly serious. I began to settle down, so long as Eldwin and my friends were right there with me. I slowly started to see my friends disperse as Eldwin began to introduce me to some of the main wolves. Skald and Tally sitting down on either side of me. Skald was walking his tail furiously, while Tally just sat there trying to look like a statue. 

A tall, older looking man with black, greying, hair and ice blue eyes bowed respectfully to me. I nodded back to him. I didn’t like the bowing but it’s also been a while since I’ve been around wolf customs. Eldwin explained to me that this man is the lead warrior and trainer. Xander Talonleaf. We spoke a few moments about me starting training and getting back into the flow of what werewolves did. He also wanted me to help teach the other warriors about how lions were trained. He said it would probably benefit us in the long run. 

The next man, who was short and stocky with orange curls and emerald eyes. His face was covered in adorable freckles. Beta Allen Jackson. 

“I look forward to working with you, Silva,” he spoke with a bow. These bows were ridiculous. I smiled sweetly at him. 

“It’s lovely to meet you Mr. Jackson.”

“Allen is fine, Silva. No need for formalities,” He said with a chuckle. 

“Then you can call me Tesla. Also, no bowing anymore after tonight, ok?” I said respectfully. Allen looked over at Eldwin, who nodded in agreement with me. “I’m sorry if I offend any-”

“You couldn’t offend anyone, my little lily. If it is what you want then we don’t mind,” Eldwin said with a soft, loving smile that was sending me over the moon. 

“Well, in that case, could you let everyone know that as well, please?” I said just as Skald rubbed his head against my palm. I scratched at the back of his head. 

Home. He said through our pack link. I grinned down at him. 

Yes, home. I turned to look at Allen who was looking back and forth between us. 

“Sorry, uh, Tally, Skald and I have our own little pack link. So we can mostly understand each other,” I said as if it should’ve been common knowledge. He nodded in amazement. 

“Huh, that’s very unique. I have heard much about you from Eldwin and about your, uh, mark,” Allen said with a bit of embarrassment. I had no doubt that everyone here knew more about me than I did about them. 

Once introductions were made and everyone spoke more with each other, I had learned a lot about Xander, Allen, and even Alex. To which he stuck close by and babbled on about his favorite foods and shared stories about Eldwin as a kid. We all laughed at the story about Eldwin, Alex, and Allen getting in trouble for breaking a window with a football. Naomi didn’t seem to be as amused but she still laughed with us at the memory. 

Everyone began to make their way out and to their own rooms. L.J. wrapped me in a warm brotherly hug. Kosovo wrapped his arms around me in the same fashion. Both wishing me good night. Cassie on the other hand hugged me as tight as Ella had earlier. Whispering “good luck with the mating.” Her words made my face heat up. She giggled before she left. 

The only ones present were Naomi, Xander, Allen, Alex, Eldwin, Skald, Tally, and myself. We all stood in silence as the rest of the pack departed from the patio. 

“Alright. Eldwin, Tesla, I know it is late, but we need to have a more serious conversation,” Naomi’s  tone had hardened slightly. 

“Mother, can’t we do this tomorrow?” Eldwin said as he sighed. 

“No. Now, Tesla, we all know here about your previous pack,” Naomi certainly didn’t miss a beat. I did my best to hold my face up to be leveled with hers. A bad habit I developed when dealing with Amana. “From what you proved back in the Sunstone Pridelands, I think we can all agree that you are nothing like the other Silverbloods. For them to banish an individual who bears the Mark of Gaia, just proves to us that they were most definitely not in their right mind. That mark alone should have been proof that you aren’t a bad person. Perhaps rough around the edges, but regardless, I think you are just simply divine. If for any reason someone treats you differently because of your birth pack, then they will have more than just the Misty Mountain pack to deal with.” I sighed in relief, not realizing that I had been holding my breath. I was going to ignore the part about me being ‘rough around the edges’. She wasn’t completely wrong. “In fact, no one was aware of the mark you have until a little over two weeks ago. The fact that Lionel had not said a word about it has us worried, however, we understand why.”

“Indeed. If the name ‘Silverblood’ was brought up then you would’ve been treated much worse if found by someone else who had not known what your mark meant,” Xander chimed in. Eldwin growled as his hand tightened around my waist. 

“My mate has already been briefed and sent evidence of everything you have done since reaching the Sunstone Pridelands. Pride Father Lionel was more than happy to give that to him,” Naomi said as she crossed her arms. 

“Speaking of father, where is he and the dynamic duo?” Eldwin said, obviously trying to change the topic. Which I was grateful for. I was relieved that I had been accepted by the Alpha King himself, but after years of basically hiding, the fear was still there. 

“Archek, Edward, and Erron will be here for the Silva coronation. Which will happen the day after tomorrow,” Naomi said. 

“That soon, huh?” Eldwin’s voice was both happy and excited. 

“Yes. Alex informed me of the chimera symbol,” Naomi said as she walked over to the wooden railing of the patio. “With her being a part of a larger pack, there will be less of a chance of… disturbances.” I couldn’t help but tilt my head. What did she mean by that? 

“Sil-er, Tesla, your training starts as soon as you are ready,” Xander spoke up, pulling my attention to him. “I am sure we would all like to see you in action.” 

“When do you usually have training?” I asked. Training always helped me clear my mind, so I definitely wanted to do that as soon as I possibly could. I want nothing more than to be with Eldwin, but I also wanted to show these wolves just how much of a warrior I can be. Maybe that’s just my pride telling me to prove myself after dealing with lionesses. 

“Well, we have training tomorrow morning at six a.m.” Xander answered. I nodded my head and turned to Eldwin. 

“Would you mind if we joined them?” I asked hopefully. His eyes lit up. 

“Of course. I won’t miss any opportunity to show you off,” He growled playfully. I giggled at him. “Besides, I want to have a good sparring match with you and your brother. I think. It would be interesting.” He smiled playfully. 

“Well, then. We shall be there first thing in the morning.” My voice was more chipper than I had intended it to be. 

~~