Two Alphas One Omega

4. Welcome Back

Soren’s POV:

(Several Hours Before the Blood Moon)

I wasn't due back to Iron Claw for another year, but after my father informed me of wild rogues swarming the palace last night—not attacking, just waiting and watching—which was never a good sign, I dropped everything to return to my kingdom. My priority as future King is to all wolves, but as an alpha, it’s to the Iron Claw pack, and the last time rogues dared to come onto our land and rage war, we lost hundreds of warriors. I couldn't let that happen again.

I wouldn't be surprised if those rogues planned to disrupt tonight's hunt. They have a knack for appearing at the most inconvenient moments, causing chaos everywhere. The timing of this ordeal is horrendous, especially with it being a Blood Moon. My father assured me there would be extra security patrolling the streets; I knew he wanted to stay one step ahead of any trouble, mainly because the Blood Moon tends to make wolves extra restless. On top of everything, my mother has taken it upon herself to throw me a "welcome back party." I begged her to cancel it; the sacred ceremony and hunt were already too much, but nothing could change her mind.

I dreaded mating moons if I'm being honest; for nearly five years, I had traveled through every territory, from the lofty snow-capped mountains to the arid deserts, yet I had never caught a whiff of my fated mates' scent, not once...Women threw themselves at me left and right, but my wolf, Xaroth, and I were adamant about wanting our fated mate; I was a purebred alpha wolf. We wouldn't be satisfied taking a chosen mate; we needed the one made for us, our other half. During my time away from home, serving in different packs and conversing with other Alphas and their Lunas... I realized that I couldn’t take on this massive responsibility without my mate—the one destined to share this heavy burden with me. It takes two to lead a kingdom and a pack, but I have a dilemma: I'm almost 23 years old and supposed to ascend the throne at 25... but by law, I must be mated with at least one heir. I'm trying to hold out for my mate; I know I’m running out of time, but I couldn’t just choose someone randomly.

The thought of being forced into a path devoid of my fated mate was unbearable, and I don't say that lightly. It's not like I haven't given women a chance to "woo" me or whatever; Xaroth is very particular and too picky. Years of searching for our mate had hardened his heart, and now, with the weight of preparing to be King pressing upon us, I felt an overwhelming urgency for her presence and hers alone. All the other women only wanted the titles and the riches anyway, and yes, being an alpha/king definitely has its advantages, but let’s be real: this role also comes with a fair share of criticism, tons of hard work, no privacy, and a heavy load of responsibility. Most she-wolves I encountered only see the glitz and glam of being a queen and think they are ready to leave their old lives and live in a giant castle with a million maids, doing whatever they want, but it's much more. It's a test of strength and resilience that not everyone is prepared for. So, at this point, the thought of yet another pointless mating moon made my skin crawl, with anticipation draining me like a stubborn shadow in the night. I couldn’t shake the feeling that the ancient one was after me—condemning me to roam this world alone as some cruel form of punishment.

Yet, even with my mate, drama, Returning home felt like a warm embrace after years spent traversing every pack in the region. Each journey intensified my appreciation for Iron Claw. As I peered through the window, a breathtaking panorama unfolded before me – a vast expanse of radiant trees, their leaves ablaze with the fiery hues of autumn, painting the landscape in brilliant reds and yellows. The streets brimmed with festive decorations for the mating moon; laughter and joy filled the air as children danced and played, their radiance contagious. A smile blossomed as I gazed at the people I would one day serve, each face a part of my destiny. As we drove through the busy streets of the Iron Claw Kingdom, crowds of people began to notice my car, adorned with royal flags; some people started yelling, others bowing, while ladies cried, and others pushed and shoved to catch a glimpse of the alpha prince returning, likely trying to see if I had found my mate. I sighed and rested my head against the window. As much as I liked being home, one thing I didn't miss was the constant attention. I used to love it as a child, but the time I spent on my Alpha Tour really matured me. Now, I value privacy more than I ever did before.

"How much longer, Rick?" I asked my longtime driver and trusted ally. "About ten minutes, Your Grace," he replied, glancing at me through the rearview mirror. I nodded and went back to the paperwork on my lap, knowing that despite the Blood Moon, my duties didn't stop; I looked over at my beta Leo, who was face-sucking his mate, Lauren, in the seat behind me; he was supposed to be helping me finish this s**t before morning, but ever since he found his mate a year ago, he has been a little distracted. They've been sickly annoying with their PDA and groping every five seconds. I didn’t blame them; I envied a love like that, a connection so profound and inspiring. Yet, I must admit, it became increasingly frustrating to witness it constantly, not having my own mate to share life with. So, I dove into the documents on my desk and silently prayed for a drama-free night ahead, hoping it would pass swiftly and peacefully.

We pulled into the sleek marble driveway of the grand palace; I was struck by the festive atmosphere. My mother really outdid herself this year; the entire place was illuminated with bright lights and every type of flower you could imagine. As we approached the front entry, Xaroth stirred restlessly within me, brimming with disdain for the mating moon. The pulsating music, intertwined with the thunderous cheers of the crowd, amplified the throb of my headache, yet I pressed on with determination and plastered a fake smile on my face. The guards stood unwavering like statues, their vigilant eyes surveying the vibrant scene, ensuring everything would be perfect for my grand welcome.

Framed in the majestic doorway stood my mother and father, their faces radiating pride and boundless love, eagerly awaiting my return; next to them was my little brother Simon and his mate; where was Silas? I wondered. It felt as if the entire pack had gathered, hearts pounding with excitement and joy, not just celebrating my arrival but honoring our unbreakable bond and strength. Leo and Lauren were the first to step out, and then Richard came around to open my door; I quickly concealed the files I had been working on in my briefcase. "Here goes nothing," I breathed, wanting to get this over with. The car door opened, and a wave of warmth washed over me—a joyous eruption from the crowd as everyone rushed forward to welcome me home, but Xaroth was sniffing the air and pacing back and forth; something was happening...

"Soren!" my mother exclaimed, weaving through the crowd that quickly cleared a path for her. Without waiting, she threw herself into my arms, tears flowing as she held onto me tightly. I hugged her back, "It's great to see you, too, Mom." She covered my face in kisses while crying out, stretching this moment longer than needed. Noticing my discomfort, my father stepped in to help.

"That's enough, Stefani," his voice boomed. Let the boy breathe." My mother reluctantly let me go, but still held onto my arm.

"Father," I said earnestly, bowing my head in respect. To my surprise, he embraced me tightly, and I found myself returning the gesture."It's good to see you, son. Come, we have so much to discuss," he urged, his voice filled with warmth and anticipation. With a determined nod, I followed him into the house, and the crowd eagerly followed behind us.

Upon entering the palace, I was immediately captivated by the irresistible scent of sweet nectar and vanilla that filled the air, prompting an instinctive smile to cross my lips. "Do you smell that?" Xaroth breathed, his eyes lighting up as he eagerly inhaled the intoxicating aroma. It was the most delightful fragrance I had ever encountered, effortlessly drawing me closer, a siren call I could not resist. "What’s that wonderful smell?" I mused aloud, my senses tingling with excitement. As I scanned the surroundings, my eyes glazed over as I looked around, desperate to uncover the source of that enchanting scent that promised a taste of paradise.

"Sweetheart, we're preparing all your favorite dishes tonight!" my mother said, her enthusiasm evident as she grasped my arm. My heart sank in disappointment when I recognized that the enticing aroma could be associated with that.

"Alright, son, it’s time to get serious," my father said, gripping my shoulder. Let's head to my office." I started to follow him, but my mother interjected, grabbing my arm. "Argus," she complained, turning to my father. Let the boy shower first. He just got home, so there will be plenty of time for work later." My father frowned but eventually agreed; he'd never defy my mother.

"Thanks, Mom," I said, kissing her on the cheek. I was grateful for a moment alone to collect my thoughts, but as I rushed to my room, I went upstairs, and the sweet scent grew stronger. "Mate! I think our mate is near," Xaroth said, wagging his tail and displaying a wolfish grin. Excitement bloomed in my chest."You smell our mate?" "I'm not sure; there are too many mixed scents, but I think something is happening." I nodded, feeling a strange sensation in my chest.

I opened my bedroom door and stopped when I saw Darcy sitting in a long black trench coat on my bed. Her light brown hair curled around her shoulders, and her blue eyes pierced me with a longing that made me want to puke. "Welcome back, Your Grace," she purred, her fingers gliding over the soft skin of her neck down to her chest. I wasn't impressed as she untied the fabric, shook it off her shoulders, and let it pool around her feet.

"What are you doing here, Darcy?" I asked impatiently

"What?" she cooed, "you're not happy to see me?" She poked out her bottom lip, "Your mother told me to welcome you home... you know, after all, tonight you and I will be mated under the blood moon," she smirked, and I frowned, shoving her away from me. "Get out, Darcy... now," I said firmly, my gaze fixed ahead, avoiding her pleading eyes. "But your grace, you cannot be serious," she whined, her voice desperate and childish. A single glare from me was enough to silence her; she wilted like a wounded pup, frowning but ultimately leaving the room. My frustration boiled over; my mother just couldn't wait, could she?

Xaroth growled at her words. Why would she assume we would be mated tonight? I shook my head in disgust. Something felt off, but I couldn't put my finger on it; my senses were alert, my wolf restless; could it be the effects of the mating mood, or was it something else? I rushed to shower, hoping the hot water would calm my nerves, and it did a little. I wrapped a towel around my waist, my long black hair dripping all over the floor; I hadn't cut it since I left. I quickly dressed, tied my hair in a low bun, and joined my family.

I walked down to the foyer just as the first guest arrived, "Soren," my father beckoned, urging me to join him. Yet, I hesitated. The alluring fragrance still lingered in the air like a captivating promise, a secret left to uncover. Was it the scent of my fated mate or merely another mirage of hope? The thrill of discovery fought against duty, and I was torn between the two paths before me. I wanted to seek it out, "Soren," My father said again, this time with annoyance in his tone; I shook my head and fixed my tie.

Duty First!

If my mate were here, I would find her. There was no need to rush the process, so I relaxed, pushed my wolf down, and put on a fake smile to join my father in greeting our guest.