Chapter 40 - The Kings Return and Broken Bonds   A soft knock at the door woke me. I slowly opened my eyes, the warmth from Erik wrapped around me, making it hard to convince myself to move. His arms were holding me against him, a feeling I would never grow tired of. Finally, with a groan, I pulled myself from him and swung my legs over the edge. Looking out the window, I could only see darkness, telling me it was daytime outside the forest. The light to the room slowly brightened, mimicking the rise of the sun. I looked over to see Drake sprawled out on the floor, his hair spread across his face, drool on his cheek. I swallowed the laugh that threatened to erupt. Then, shaking my head, I walked past him and opened the door. Malcolm waited outside, holding a tray of food.   "Good morning, Athena." He said, his voice smoot

Chapter 42 - Luna   Athena's POV   We celebrated well into the night, many pack members stopping us to give thanks. The events of today, constantly playing in my mind. Phoenix felt the same excitement and nervousness as I did. Though, her typical voice of reason helped stop it from eating away at us. So many questions and realizations crossed our minds.   If I weren't Dacian, then I would have, potentially, become the leader of this pack. A trained warrior, still linked to the Dacian line and the moon goddess and the mother. A warm hand wrapped around my waist, pulling me close. The sparks filled my senses as I leaned into his touch.   "Everything okay?" Erik whispered his hot breath on my n

Chapter 44 - The Crowning   We waited outside the forest line for Drake and Rachel. As the Betas in this pack, they would become our advisors during our ruling. Once we were crowned, our pack would become the next Royal Guards, absorbing our power, linking them to our lifeline. They would not become immortal beings, but they would live a longer lifespan than most after last night's exhaustion consumed me instantly. The nerves were coming back, full force, this morning. The only thing keeping me grounded was Erik. The warmth of his hand in mine, the smell of chocolate and campfire filling my nose, and the sound of his voice calmed my racing heart. As the sun slowly kissed the earth hello, I couldn't help but feel the same way I felt before I killed Dela. I could feel Erik's eyes on me, feel his concern through the bond.   "We're replacing the bad with the good. These portals will bring happiness and peace from now on," Erik said lowly, his vo

Epilogue *4 months later* “I can’t do this,” I screamed, my voice hoarse as I strained to push again. Another contraction hit me. I held my breath, letting it pass. The pain was worse than anything I had felt, and I had been stabbed in the back. “You got this Athena, give us one more big push and then it’s over.” Willow's voice was calm and somewhat soothing. I squeezed Erik’s hand harder as I felt the next contraction hit.“You’re doing amazing, sweetheart, just one more, and it’s over,” Erik whispered, his voice soft. He didn’t even wince when I squeezed his hand. I was sure I had broken it. I took a deep breath and pushed with all my might. I yelled and grunted as I did it. The sound of crying filled the air, and a glow of light wrapped around the baby. “It’s a girl.” Willow smiled as she picked up the baby and rested her on my chest. She latched onto my breast instantly. I couldn’t help the cry of happiness that left me. “She’s so perfect. Look at what we made.” I cried, looki