Chapter 5. The Price of Freedom
The Blue Moon Packhouse stood tall and proud, its ancient walls holding the whispers of generations.
The mansion had seen love, war, suffering, and triumph... all etched into its very foundation. It had sheltered werewolves through plagues and famines, offering them sanctuary in times of need.
Today, however, it bore witness to something else entirely, the impending ascension of a new Alpha.
On the spacious balcony, Bernard sat with his parents and five of the pack’s elders, forming a circle of authority as they discussed the night’s rite for the late Alpha Jackson and his Luna.
One of the elders, an older man with graying hair and piercing eyes, turned to Bernard. "Has Maria been informed about tonight?"
"Yes," Bernard nodded, his expression so calm. "I’ve already explained everything to her."
"And she didn’t resist?" Another elder raised a skeptical brow.
"She did, but everything is under control." Bernard exhaled, rubbing his temple.
After his response, a scoff came from Victoria, Bernard’s mother. Disgust was evident on her face.
"Even if she’s not okay with it, she doesn’t have a choice. The pack has decided." She uttered with a condescending tone which made Bernard stiffened.
"I already spoke to her myself, Mother."