Resting Decisions - Odessa POV

I can hear the sounds of our boots on the floor inside the castle as Jasper guides me. Arius’ claws tap the ground as we walk, he is always at my side. I can smell flowers, different werewolves of different statuses, cleaning products, and food.

My vision is black, though I do see light from the people I focus on. Jasper is giving off a bluish tint, telling me he is calm. I can tell his muscles are large and well defined because of how solid and thick his arm is. He smells of cedar and lemons.

“Lady Odessa, it is a pleasure to meet you. We heard news of how you’ve protected a couple of our packs and we have been trying to meet you.”

His voice is calm and there’s a warmth there that surprises me. I can tell that he isn’t speaking to me out of attraction, but genuinely thankful.

“Yes, I had heard I was being looked for, but I could not come right away. There is too much going on that it is difficult to find time to step away. It seems as though the Goddess had other plans by bringing us together anyway.”

He hums his agreement as he stops at a door. Guiding me inside, I can smell lavender and lemon cleaners. He guides me to a dresser, from there we move to the bed. He takes time with me to help me get oriented with the room I’ll be staying in. My room has an attached bathroom he takes me through as well.

He doesn’t know that I don’t need this extra help with Arius here, though I’m sure he can guess. He goes to the door and pauses to speak again.

“I’ll have food and drink sent here for you and Arius. Rest, bathe, relax.”

I bow my head in respect.

“Thank you, I’ll do that.”

Once he leaves, I sit down and touch Arius’ head as he rests it against me.

“Well, it seems it’s time for us to make some allies and help prevent more loss. Perhaps we will get our vengeance soon.”

Arius growls, but it isn’t a threatening or aggressive rumbling. It’s contentment as I stroke his fur.

~ Yes, it seems allies would be beneficial. The king and his men seem strong and they’ll have bigger numbers than just us two. Are you going to tell them everything? ~

His deep, snarly voice rumbles in my head. I continue to stroke the fur on his head.

“Yes, I think I will. The more knowledge and understanding they have, the better prepared. Better than what happened to us.”

Arius agrees.

~ The story will be difficult… but maybe since the king is your mate, it’ll make it easier for you. ~

I sigh and shake my head.

“Of course you’d have noticed. He doesn’t know, Arius, they can’t smell me because of the potion I’ve taken. Maybe it’s better this way.”

Arius lifts his head and I know he’s looking at me.

~ Odessa, you know that isn’t true. Our mate bonds are given to us by the Goddess herself. She has a reasoning behind every pairing. I think you should consider letting the potion wear off, letting him and his men know our scents. Not just because of your mate bond, but because they’ll need to know us if we are to be allies. ~

I frown and bow my head slightly. His words weighing on me because I know he isn’t wrong.

“Guide me to the bath please? I’ll consider it… right now, I’d like to bathe. We both could use a good rest.”

Arius huffs, his version of a little laugh as he stands. I can find my way without him, it’s just easier with him at my side.

****************************************

Hours later, it is time for dinner. Arius and I have been invited to come to the dining hall where the king and his men are dining. Discussions will be held after in his council room with his commanders, beta, delta, gamma, and the king himself.

After a little bit of a back and forth, Arius convinced me that dinner would be ideal. I’ve also allowed the potion to wear off.

I wonder how the king is going to react the minute we walk through the doors of the dining hall.

A knock on the door sounds before it opens and Jasper’s blue light appears.

“Evening, my lady, I’m here to be your escort. The king wanted to come, but the councilmen have been detaining him.”

I nod my head and stands up slowly. Arius guides me to Jasper who gives me his arm again. I can feel him taking in my appearance.

Maids had left me a lilac sundress that cinches at my waist and then bells out. The skirt ends just above my knees. My long, raven hair is twisted in a braid. I wear no makeup or jewelry.

“You’re looking rested and quite beautiful, if you don’t mind my say so.”

I can’t help blushing a little bit and giving a shy smile.

“Thank you, Arius said the same.”

Jasper’s eyebrows raise a little, though I can’t see it.

“Arius can talk? Is he not just a wolf?”

I smirk as I brush my fingers against Arius who walks at my side.

“It’s complicated. I’ll explain later at the meeting, if you don’t mind. Then I don’t have to repeat myself.”

Jasper seems to consider it. Though what he did was nod his head before responding.

“That makes sense. Alright, my lady, it’s going to be loud, but you’re not alone. I’ll be staying at your side.”

I smile and nod my head.

“You and Arius. I have a feeling if I said it’s too much, you would get me out of there.”

Jasper chuckles.

“I’ve known more than one blind wolf in my day. From what I know, the other much more heightened senses can be severely overwhelming. Just touch my arm if you need an out and I’ll take you somewhere more peaceful to enjoy your meal.”

I feel myself beginning to relax more with Jasper, he makes it easy. I know he isn’t lying to me and I sense I can trust him.

“Thank you, Jasper, that means a lot.”

With that, he makes a motion with his hands and the doors to the dining hall open. I’d heard the murmur of noise before, now, it’s on full blast.