Blood Moon Gathering

An Informed Visit

A week had passed since Victor had been to see her. She had cleaned all the clothes she found in the closet and had prepared to ask about them. She'd also had time to look through some of the books and training videos that were left for her. The voice in her head was quiet. She had started wondering if it had ever happened.

As she was getting around to get breakfast she heard a small knock on the door. She figured he'd come soon as he was charged with keeping her safe. Answering the door she was not ready for what he had brought along.

Hey Serenity. He said from somewhere behind the packages and bags.

What, Victor? Are you back there? She laughed.

Yeah, just help me get all of this inside before I am seen please.

She giggled taking several packages from him. They made their way to the spare room she'd converted.

Whoa you've been busy. He was impressed.

Well I have to have something to do out here. She shoved his arm gently.

That is true. He put his armload down on the table and looked around.

I have so much I want to talk to you about. She was starting to rifle through the bags to see what all he had brought to her.

Like what? His eyebrows shot up.

What? I mean why are you surprised Im out here alone and I have no idea what the Gatherings theme is this year, or if I should be worried, what I am expected to know, or... He stopped her.

Wait a minute. You are asking a lot and I can answer everything if you give me a chance. Do you have any coffee? She noticed his tired expression.

What's going on back at the pack house? You look terrible.

Geeze thanks Serenity. Make a guy feel sexy would you.

Oh. Im sorry but you look very tired. She smiled.

I am, but only because I've been very busy gathering things for you and still doing everything to keep up appearances for the pack. Nobody knows Thad and I are planning to change things except you and those closest to my brother and I.

How is that working for you and him?

It's stressful at best. Many of the elders in our pack are sworn to secrecy for the time being, they are content with the path Alpha Thad is taking and anxious about the plan. It will work out either way even if you decided to leave.

About that. She interrupted.

Yes? He was hopeful.

I am staying. I need to see this through, and my mother's legacy is at stake. I want what's right for my pack.

You don't know how happy I am to hear that. He grabbed her and hugged her tightly.

What's this for? She was stunned.

Because you made things better just by making this choice.

Okay. She was a little uncomfortable but he was excited by the possibilities.

Have you watched any training videos yet? He had moved on already leaving her wondering why his scent lingered slightly.

Yes, and I have tried some things but I don't have much experience in this area.

That's okay. I planned on coming a few more times to help you prepare more. Along with that Alpha Thad wil be at your side for the gathering along with those loyal to our true pack. You will be protected as best as we can provide. And the Wolf Council will be in attendance so everything will be exposed from your mom's murder to our packs abuse of you. We only need to keep you safe until your ascension.

And what of Alpha Thads Ascension?

He has taken the oath and father has passed everything on to him. He has told everyone he did not want a formal party so for all purposes he's ascended already.

So he has the packs power and their backing now.

For the most part. Our former Alpha and Luna will be at the gathering hoping their heirs find their mates. They have no idea they will be brought up on charges that very night.

I've been thinking. She was cautious with her words.

Okay. He replied.

Luna Muriel protected me the best she could by having me removed from the pack, what will happen to her?

She's tied to your father by the mate bond. She knows she will go through hell when he's charged. She also knows more than likely he'll be put to death for his actions. There's only two ways this can go.

And how is that? She was intent.

She tried to help so we have sought councils leniency and they have already granted that. So it's now up to the moon goddess. She will either die beside him, or if moon goddess sees fit she can give her a second chance at life and love with a new mate. Luna Muriel has agreed to allow it all. She feels horrible for everything that's happened. She never wanted any of this.

Do you believe her Victor?

Yes, I really do. And you should too.

You have my word I do.

Good.

So tell me everything about the gathering.

Its Victorian era theme. You know Henry the eighth and all. Alpha Thad will come get you that evening. Your costume has to conceal your identity so nobody suspects anything until the perfect moment. Thad is going as an executioner.

Please, no. He shouldn't make that his first public impression. He should go as a hero or something valient considering he saved me and is going to make things right.

I'll talk to him and see if I can change his mind.

That reminds me, there were some older antique clothes in the spare room closet, can I repurpose them?

Let me see what they are I can give you an answer after we look.

Of course. They headed to the sewing room once again. He looked over the items and approved her using all of them including the dress she was hoping for.

They left the room and he was about to leave when she asked him one more question.

Victor?

Yes Serenity. He smiled back at her.

This is going to come out wrong but I need to know.

Okay, ask away.

Have you found your mate yet?

Oh. He was a bit taken aback. Well, yes. she's beautiful, and sweet, and still too young to know yet. We'll be mated at the gathering. But Serenity, I'm sorry its not you.

Oh, it's okay I was just hoping... She trailed off.

You have a mate. He is so much more than me.

What's he like?

He's kind, strong, powerful, and yet caring. You two will make amazing leaders.

Who is he?

I cant tell you, I've taken a blood oath to keep it a secret until you know. All will be revealed soon enough. He won't let anything happened to you. And once you ascend and take your place he will come to you. Please try to understand everything he's doing is for your safety. He loves you much more than you'll ever know.

Guess I'll have yo take your word for it huh?

For now at least.

Thank you Victor. You'll be back soon right?

I promise. We have to get you in shape for the ball right.

Sure. She said.

With that he walked out and headed home. She was left feeling oddly alone. She had hoped the racing in her chest might have meant he and Geo were hers. She would have to wait and see.