Spellbound Lust

The Ceremony

My eyes fluttered open, already I could feel the heat curling in my belly. I had expected a slight twinge but it already felt like it was building to an inferno. I pulled myself out of bed and slowly made my way to the bathroom. My skin was super sensitive and I could already the magic coursing through my veins, driving me to seek out a mate.

I groaned as I stepped into the shower, the water caressing my bare skin, feeling like whispers of fingertips. I did my best to ignore the sensations as I forced myself to get clean.

Today was my 21st birthday, the day my powers were to manifest and in an hour or so I would be in a spellbound heat. My body would grow increasingly needy until I found a way to slake it's thirst.

My coven had already made the arrangements, all those who were already mated or otherwise ineligible would be sent in town for the next three days, while everyone else, shifters and witches alike, would be here in the manor, many hoping the magic would choose them.

I stepped out of the shower, finally feeling clean, and dried myself off quickly. I combed my hair and braided it tightly to keep my long red curls from escaping. I donned my white sheer gown, smiling as it hugged my ample curves and gave the barest lift to my generous breasts. The front was cut in a low V and the skirt went to my ankles with a high slit on each side that went nearly to my hips.

With a shuddering breath, I steeled myself for what was to come. Then I turned with my head held high and crossed the black marble floor, opening the door wide. It was time to face my fate, I just hoped the gods would be kind.

I carefully made my way down the curved staircase and stepped out to the great hall. There I could see a single row of 25 people, covered in black silk robes, heads and faces covered, leaving only their eyes bare. Most were tall and broad, the warriors of our clan. There were a few who were smaller, with graceful frames, those would be either the witches or the omegas.

They all stood at attention, their gazes locked on me as I strode to the table between us. Without a word I lifted the crystal goblet, held it high before me, praying one last time, and brought it to my lips. I drank down the sweet berry and floral liquid and gently placed the goblet back on the table.

Fire suddenly coursed through me, burning through my veins as I screamed. Other voices followed me as they too were caught up in the magic. For a few minutes, I was blind as the pain took hold. When I opened my eyes, I saw four of the robed figures had fallen to their knees.

I cut a quick glance at my right wrist and saw four markings, One was a band of silver feathers, music notes and stars indicating an air mage. Below that, a crown surrounded with red flames, indicating Alric the Alpha dragon shifter. The next band was a blue cat nose with whiskers, that would be an omega feline shifter. The last band was a crowned moon with a wolf's head facing it on each side and a paw print facing each end. That meant only one thing, Gabriel the king of wolves was one of my Mates. I shivered involuntary. This was a powerful mating. much would be expected of us.

I cleared her throat before saying in the most steady and clear voice I could manage. "The gods have chosen well, I am blessed. May my mates rise and present themselves to me."

One by one the men stood and made their way to the table. Alric removed his cowl first, his long black curls coming loose to rest down his broad shoulders, cascading almost to his waist. His full lips pulled up in a smile as he faced the room and spoke in a voice as rich as melted dark chocolate "My name is Alpha Alric Boonstone, Moira the dragon mother has blessed me well, I accept this mating"

A few of the men thumped their fists over their chest in celebration as a smaller, yet graceful man stepped forward. He revealed straight, shoulder length platinum white hair, almond shaped, chartreuse eyes and full lips that practically purred as he said "I am Cassius Swift, omega of the snow leopards, Bast has chosen well, I accept this mating!"

This time some of the men stomped their feet as the other slight man came forward this man waved his hand and a small whirlwind lifted his cowl, showing off his short sandy brown hair, pale blue eyes and a slight quirk to his thin lips as he spoke "My name is Jason Lyre of the mage's court. I am a master of air and music Apollo has chosen well for me, I am blessed to accept this union"

Applause followed his words as at last Gabriel stepped forward and pulled off his cowl His chestnut waves curled to the middle of his back, his amber eyes stayed on me as his words rang loud and true "I am Gabriel Roarick Alpha King of the wolves, Fenrir has chosen and Mother Moon has blessed us well, I accept this mating and pray for a fruitful union!"

A couple howls followed as I walked forward , between my men and the rest of the crowd, the buzzing of magic within me getting stronger with each passing minute. "My name is Shay Silvervine!" I said clearly "I am blessed by the gods with these men and gifts that will be revealed in time. I accept this mating wholeheartedly. I accept that fate must have something big planned for us to have such a powerful union. I will do my best to ensure we meet all challenges head on. At this time my mates and I must complete this mating. Will the rest of you please make your way to town and spread word of our union!"

The hall erupted in cheers and applause before they all bowed as one and turned to exit. I spun to face my mates. "I don't know about you, but I know I don't have much time before the Spellbinding takes effect. We are going to need fuel, food has been prepared in the kitchens" I spoke quickly as my body had already started to tremble.

Gabriel moved quickly, sweeping me up in his arms and rushing me to said kitchens. The other men followed without a word. I was placed in a cushioned chair, Gabriel quickly seating himself to one side and Alric to the other. Cassius rushed forward and hauled multiple platters of meats, cheeses, breads and fruit to the table, while Jason grabbed us a pitcher each of water, apple cider and wine.