Chapter 53 - Interesting meeting
MAXINE
I stand still with eyes wide as saucers as he said those words.
A mating ceremony.
There's a strange expression on Rey's face. The corners of his lips are trying to curl upwards but he struggles to hold them back, looking himself as neutral as he can but without much success.
"You knew didn't you?" I say slightly enraged by his reaction. All I receive in response is silence, a confirmation of my question. The innocent look he tries to give me is not going to save him. "And yet you didn't tell me. What is it? A surprise?"
"Basically yes, but soon someone will ask you – as Alice already did – and you were about to learn about it."
"I would prefer if someone would prepare me first before I offer myself so willing to assist."
"But… I'm preparing you." He gives me a look that makes my legs go weak. "When we're alone."
I bring my hand in front of my mouth as I let a gasp when I make the connection. Rey grabs my hands gently into his and rubs the upper side of my palms with his thumbs.
"If you're still not ready by the time of the ceremony, it's okay. This won't change what I said. I'll wait for you."
"Why you didn't tell me? This girl…Alice has taken me off guard!" I complain.
"You're right. I should have told you first. Look, this ceremony is a big deal for the pack. It shows the intention of the wolves to unite with their mates unconditionally, asking the goddess for her blessing by sharing their first time together."
"But it would not be our first time together…" I reply puzzled. Rey lets a smile form on his face.
"All these games are just to prepare you. We have not mated yet." His smooth deep voice resonates making my ears tickle.
"You said that again…to prepare me…"
"Yes. Since it will be your first time – it will be painful somewhat – I won't hide from you the truth. The wolves…our instincts are sharper during mating. For an Alpha, this tends to be more…"
My mouth falls open on his confession. I knew already that I'm going to face an amount of pain that night, but it wouldn't be unbearable. And now he comes to turn everything I was bracing myself for, upside down. Will I be able to handle his enhanced animalistic instincts when the time comes? Fear that I'll be torn apart spreads through me as his last words sink deeper within my mind. I turn to look at him and I see the worry flashing behind those deep blue eyes of his the moment he meets my gaze.
"I'll promise I'll not make anything that will expose you to massive pain. I don't find pleasure in hurting you." He speaks quietly, nearly audible to me.
"I know" I whisper.
"I promise you if you're ready for this step, I'll make sure you're prepared the most before the time comes." He gives me a warm smile trying to calm me down and the truth is, it works a bit.
"Can I ask you something?" I ask with a fragment of hesitation in my voice. I watch him facing me with eyebrows knitted together at my question. I watch him struggle at first, considering if he should let me continue or change the subject but then he nods.
"Did you call the centaurs?"
Rey looks at me puzzled for a second. Then he realized that I'm not looking at him, but past him until he turns to look over his shoulder. I spot Seleus with Toral approaching in the distance towards us.
"Yes, I contact them once Inka informed us about you and your parents. Seleus had said the same thing on that night by the spring."
He's right. I remember the words as well that he spoke as the arrow landed on his chest. I give them another look. Their hoofs are stepping on the ground with power and confidence but their movement hides an elegance as they're walking to our place. Chins up standing proudly looking every wolf straight in the eyes that addresses them. Their voices were calm and composed as they greet their acquaintances.
Rey is still holding my hand under the table as they stop in front of us.
"Good day Alpha Rey, Luna Maxine." Toral and Seleus say in unison as they bow their heads to us.
"Good morning" I reply with a bright smile to both. Rey replies with a firm nod to each of them.
"Alpha Rey has informed us of the recent development regarding your origin Luna. We are requested here to help you with your training." Seleus speaks calmly without a very hint of expression on his face addressing me.
"My training?" I question turning to Rey.
"After Julia took you and locked you in that cabin, and considering the state we found you both, it could lead only to one reasonable explanation. That light we saw burnt Julia to the core and most probably came out of you as an involuntary reaction of your body." The latter addresses me.
"You have powers, Luna Maxine," Toral states. "Powers that are beyond your comprehension at the moment but with proper training, you will be able to master them and yield it to your will."
"And… when do I start?"
"Immediately." Seleus intervenes without a second wasted. "We need to make sure you don't accidentally kill us all."
A/N
Hi everyone! I apologise this chapter it's a bit small again but I wanted to progress the story as much as I can until next week when I'll be away from my laptop for the whole week and unable to publish any chapters.
I wait for your comments and constructive criticism are always welcome. Also, if you enjoy the story you can vote for it as well and make sure you add it to your library.
Have a nice day/night!