DRAVEN'S POV

I sat at the head of the council table, surrounded by my elders. We discussed the upcoming Luna Trials, and I couldn't help but feel a spark of excitement. “From the look on your faces, I could sense that you all are in good health today. I am so excited to see you all here,” I said, addressing them.

“You called us for this meeting to talk about the Luna trial. You are a very sensitive person, and I really admire you for that. You knew it was time you ruled us with Luna, and I think you had great intentions in doing so," elder Marcus said.

“What should we be doing now? I mean, what is our role to play in getting all the female wolves ready for the Luna trials?” Magnus, my father asked.

“I don't think you have any role to play as a father, you should just watch from the corner and allow us to do it okay. I am the one who is actually getting Luna and not you,” I said.

“You are trying to say that I am an exception in this meeting? Because I actually don't understand your words to me right now. You should know that this is an open challenge, and each maiden should want to participate in the trial. You have to be cautious of the decision you make,” Magnus said, trying to sound harsh.

“I was only insinuating that you have no problems getting yourself tied up in what's not necessary for you to do. I know it might be quite challenging for you, but you should know that it can also be challenging to get. This is something you should learn, okay? The maidens who are to participate would come around the palace for a tutor. I mean an orientation so they could know the limit on which they would cross and which isn't allowed to,” I said.

“We understand your side of the talks, but what we all are asking is for you to make amendments in which of them should be at the trial because not all are worthy to stay on that seat as the Luna,” Marcus said.

“You are a bit confusing right now; you should keep your words straight so you could actually understand where you are coming from,” I said.

“We want leadership with honor and loyalty. We want someone who could lead us in everything , fighting battles with rival packs and others. And you know that it could be only done with the help of a Luna by your side, and that is why we should help you in selecting one of them,” Marcus said. “Okay, I think I understand what you are trying to say. You mean that you don't want me to make the selection that it should be you, the elders, who would make them for me?” I asked as they all nodded their heads in agreement. I couldn't understand where they were coming from, but I can't stand that they are just using me off. “This is my mating, and you have no rights to choose a mate for me. Okay, what if there is a change of hand? I mean, the Luna trial, which has been going on for decades now, and you want to just throw away that ritual just like that?” I asked.

“We never said we would do it to help you get this thing done so you could know who you could trust. Yes, the rituals have been for decades, but we can still change that fact because we all want perfect leadership. You should understand the pack and hear from us and not be concerned about yourself alone, he said, saying his words were rude.

“I actually appreciate the fact that you are one of the council elders, but I wouldn't have you talk to me that way. If you all know I am an exception to what you have to say, I stand on the opposite side of the suggestion. You have to think with me and work with me until this is all over and not being done is kind of a nuisance to them. You should understand that this is the ritual that can't be changed despite your need for good leadership. You should still believe that the moon goddess wouldn't forgive you if you did such a thing, and it wouldn't happen in my reign as the Alpha never did, " I said. The trials would begin soon, and I was eager to see the potential candidates showcase their skills. “The trials will commence in three days,” Elder Thorold said, his voice firm. “We must ensure everything is in place.” I nodded, my mind already racing with possibilities.

“And that's what I have been wanting to hear from one of you. Thank you for looking into it, Elder Thorold; you are really someone I could rely on,” I said.

“Thank you for the comment. I would have to send messages to the town clerk to elaborate on the trial to everyone willing to participate in the trial. I just hope you get someone who is well prepared to become one of you,” Elder Thorold said.

“Thanni thinks we have come to the conclusion of this meeting, and I hope that this meeting will come to get us considerable support,” I said as I was about to dismiss them.

Just then, the door opened, and Celeste slipped in, a hint of perfume wafting behind her. She smiled sweetly, her eyes locked on me. “Forgive the interruption, Alpha,” she said, her voice husky. “I wanted to remind you of my support in this matter.”

I raised an eyebrow, sensing an underlying motive. “Oh, I appreciate the support, but is there anything you have to say?” I asked. What was Celeste playing at? I wondered, my instincts on high alert.