Page 191 of A Female Alpha for the Lycan Prince

Eric nods. “That’s why we have to get some paperwork done.”

We visit Alpha Elden first and go through a few details about transporting that creepy pedophile. After that’s settled, Eric moves on to his original mission, trying to convince Alpha Elden to become King of the Council. And although he was very reluctant at first, it seems like Eric has slowly persuaded him to give in. He just wants a successor in place for Silverlake first. I also talk to him about my gift, mentioning how I managed to hurt Lenny with just a touch. Alpha Elden thinks that it’s most likely another side of my gift. I can use it to heal and harm. Eric wants us to return to the Council as soon as possible. He’s worried for me, and he wants to make sure that I’m safe from any more kidnappers, especially those who might want to turn me into a weapon.

Later on, we’re going to pick up Jazz from Red Claw and drive over to Moon Blood. Jazz is going to practice her witchcraft with Desmona and Jade while I spend some time with my family. Then we can hang out together after her lessons.

“There is still some paperwork left to finish,” Emilien frowns. “Maybe I can return later to do it.”

“Why don’t you stay here? Eric says. “I can take the girls to Moon Blood.”

Emilien looks horrified. “No, Prince Eric, please allow me to accompany you. I don’t want to leave you without backup.”

“What if Vincent accompanies Eric?” Alpha Elden offers. “Then Emilien can still stay here and go through the last of the documents with me.”

Eric smiles. “That’s a good idea.”

I nod. Vincent is a strong lycan. He looks pretty scary at first glance, with most of his body covered in tattoos and his head shaved, but he’s actually very nice and is a loyal friend to Alpha Elden. He seems a little sad recently, which I assume is why Elden’s probably asked him to drive us.

“Thank you, Vincent. Could you please take us via Red Claw first?” Eric tells him. “We have cargo to collect there.”

“Jazz is not cargo,” I squeal in mock protest. My goodness, Eric and his sassy remarks kill me sometimes.

Vincent chuckles at our banter. “Glad to see you two getting along with each other.” He looks at Eric. “I’m happy for you, man.”

“Thanks.” Eric smiles at him before turning serious again. “You know, it’s not your fault, Vincent. You didn’t know what Calvin was up to. Don’t blame yourself for not noticing he was a psychopath. People like him are experts at hiding their true nature.”

I stay quiet during their exchange. The recent revelations about Marius definitely must have hit deep for him. As fellow betas, I’m sure Vincent is devastated that his old friend was capable of doing something so horrendous.

Eric and Vincent exchange a nod. “Let’s go.” Vincent smiles at us, but it doesn’t quite reach his eyes. “We don’t want to keep your cargo waiting.”

At Red Claw, Jazz is already waiting for us, eager to start her lessons with Desmona. She’s also started training with the pack warriors here at Red Claw, and she’s doing great so far. She’s taking full advantage of summer vacation to get as much training done as possible before starting college in the fall. Just as we’re about to leave though, someone stops us.

“Eric,” Lord Marius calls out, approaching us. He flashes me a toothy grin, “And hello there, little chipmunk.”

“Wait, why am I the chipmunk!?” I frown while Jazz bursts into hysterical laughter.

“Yeah, I was aiming for something small and cute,” he grins. “My alternative was to call you a Pokémon, but I literally only know Pikachu.”

“I like Pikachu,” Eric tells him thoughtfully. He sounds way too serious for my liking.

I grab Eric’s arm and pinch. As if I’d let him call me Pokémon names from now on, “Oh no, you don’t.”You dare call me Pikachu, and you can sleep on the sofa!I link him.

Eric looks at me amused.So, does that mean if I behave myself, I get to do you all night?

I’m stunned at how his mind works sometimes. Nowhere did I imply that, but well…That’s up for negotiation,I say, feeling slightly flustered.

He flashes me a smirk before turning towards Marius. “It seems I was mistaken. I don’t like any Pokémon,” he deadpans. “So, how can I help you, cousin?”

Marius’ smile turns serious. “During the last few weeks, I’ve been researching a rogue attack. One that happened over ten years ago.”

“Here, in Red Claw?” Eric asks curiously.

“No, it happened at Moon Blood. I was able to track down some of the culprits,” he explains.

“Wait… you were able to track them down even though it’s been over ten years?” Eric asks, stunned.

Marius sighs. “Well, my gift helped me.” He swipes his hand through his hair, looking a little embarrassed. “I haven’t trained it much, so I really suck at it. But technically, I can hypnotize people with weaker minds. Once they’re under my control, I can ask them questions, and they have to answer with the truth. I’m not very good at it though, because…” he pauses. “Lack of training and dedication, and my own mind is not all that healed.”

Eric visibly saddens at his admission, and nods understandingly.