Chapter 89
Venus POV
Six months later.
We had arrived from the college after graduating. Aaron secured the highest marks while I was a close second. Sigh… I knew he would tease me about it
all the time.
But today was a special day.
The cool breeze carried the scent of pine and fresh earth as the pack gathered under the towering oak tree that gave Oak Pride its name. Lanterns hung from the branches, casting a warm glow over the gathered wolves. Tonight was special a night of endings and beginnings.
Aaron stood tall beside me, his broad shoulders square, and his expression calm, though I could feel the tension humming beneath his skin. His hand brushed mine briefly, grounding me. “Ready?” he asked in a low voice.
I nodded, though my heart pounded. “Ready.”
Together, like a procession, we all walked toward the Moon Goddess temple that stood at the heart of the Oak Pride Pack’s territory. The temple’s high stone pillars had surfaces that were etched with swirling patterns that told the story of our pack’s long history. Soft moonlight filtered through the open roof, imparting a silver glow across the space. Every inch of the temple was alive with energy, thrumming with the excitement of the pack members. Because tonight Aaron and I were going to be crowned as the new Alpha and Luna of the pack.
Garlands of white roses and lavender draped along the columns, and the air was full of their scent. Each lantern hanging from the tree carried a soft golden flame, creating a warm and inviting glow. Pack members had gathered in throngs, their voices hushed with anticipation as they awaited the ceremony that would mark the beginning of a new chapter for Oak Pride.
I adjusted my delicate silver dress as I stood beside Aaron. My mate looked calm and confident, his strong shoulders squared beneath his ceremonial dress that consisted of a leather skirt and holy beads necklaces.
“You’re going to do great,” I whispered, slipping my hand into his as we all gathered in the courtyard of the temple.
Aaron squeezed my fingers gently and gave me a small smile. “Only because you’re by my side.”
The elders stood in a semicircle before us, their faces a mix of solemnity and pride. Right behind them was the statue of the moon goddess where all the previous Alphas took oath.
A deep voice rang out, silencing the murmurs of the crowd. “Alpha Martin and Luna Marie have arrived!”
Alpha Martin approached us with measured steps, his piercing eyes scanning the crowd before settling on Aaron and me. He raised his hands, signaling the start of the ceremony.
“Tonight, we honor tradition and welcome a new Alpha and Luna to lead our pack into the future,” he announced, his voice echoing through the temple. “We honor the past and embrace the future. As I step down as Alpha, I pass the mantle to my son, Aaron, and his mate, Venus, who will guide this pack with courage and wisdom.”
Aaron and I knelt before Martin, Marie and the Elders, One of the Elders stepped forward and recited the ancient blessing.
“May you protect the pack as fiercely as the wolf guards its den,” he said, placing his hands on Aaron’s shoulders. “May you lead with wisdom, strength, and compassion.”
When he turned to me, he said, “And may you, Luna Venus, be the heart of this pack, its guiding light in times of darkness.”
I felt a lump in my throat as I nodded. “I will do my best.”
The pack howled in unison as Martin raised his hand high. The sound echoed through the temple, a powerful declaration of loyalty to their new Alpha and Luna. Aaron stood, pulling me to my feet, and we faced the pack together.
Chapter 89
“For Oak Pride!” Aaron’s voice rang out, and the pack cheered, their faith in us filling the all with energy.
Along with the Elder, we walked to the moon goddess statue. He asked us to extend our hands. Taking out a knife from the moun ziddescri sliced our palm in the middle.
When the blood oozed out, he collected it in a bowl and then offered it to the goddess. “Bless them with your wisdom, he murmured.
To my surprise, the blood that was offered to the goddess, trickled inside her feet and disappeared leaving no trace. My body lined up with goosebumps and suddenly both Aaron and I felt the weight of the pack. Like every member was connected to us. Like we could listen to all of them through mind link I gasped as I looked at Aaron. His eyes turned glossy as if he was connecting with every pack member. Tears welled in my eyes because the scene was too emotional and powerful at the same time.
Other Elders stepped forward, with bowls of sacred herbs and water, each taking turns to bless Aaron and me. The scent of sage filled the air as they chanted prayers to the Moon Goddess.
“Do you, Aaron, promise to protect, lead, and serve the Oak Pride Pack with honor and strength?” one elder asked.
“I do,” Aaron said firmly, his voice resonating with conviction.
“And do you, Venus, vow to stand as Luna, guiding and supporting your Alpha and your pack with wisdom and grace?”
“I do,” I replied, my voice steady despite the weight of the moment.
Once the ceremony was over, Alpha Martin stepped forward and placed a hand on Aaron’s shoulder. “Lead with strength, my son,” he said, his tone both proud and serious.
Aaron nodded. “Yes, Father.”
The crowd erupted into cheers as Aaron raised his hand, signaling the start of his leadership. My heart swelled with pride as I looked at him, my Alpha, my mate, my partner. He turned his gaze toward me. Taking my hand in his, he lifted it and the crowd went mad. I blinked away the tears because ! wanted to show that I was confident and brave to lead them along with my husband.
Later, as the celebration continued, Nathan approached us. The newly appointed Beta was dressed in his formal attire, but he had a playful smirk that
me tightly. “Congrats Venus!” I hugged her back with warmth. betrayed his usual laid–back nature. His mate, Ginger, was with him. She hugged
“Alpha,” Nathan said, bowing slightly but with a teasing glint in his eye.
“As ready as I’ll ever be,” Nathan joked, though his voice carried an undertone of sincerity.
“Don’t worry, I’ll make sure you don’t regret this.”
“I know you won’t,” Aaron said, clapping him on the back.
I smiled at their interaction. Nathan had always been like a brother to Aaron, and I knew Aaron trusted him deeply.
Eric, meanwhile, lingered near the edge of the crowd, his usual confident demeanor muted. I couldn’t help but notice the way his eyes followed Nicole.. She stood near Luna Marie, who was introducing her to some pack members. Nicole looked out of place, her eyes wide with shock and curiosity as she tried to absorb everything.
“She’s adjusting,” I said softly to Eric as I passed by him.
