Page 68 of Fated (The Bonded Legacy #1)

The ripple of Darius’s aura withdrawing as he moved away left space for the gathering’s energy to flow around Caleb.

He moved through the room like water, nodding respectfully and pausing for those who acknowledged him.

Each interaction created small eddies of connection, carrying him naturally toward the far side of the hall where familiar faces brought a smile to his lips.

There, a group of wolves huddled together in easy camaraderie.

Cian noticed Caleb’s approach, brightening with recognition, as Caleb tuned into the group’s dynamic energy.

Cian stood with a relaxed confidence that Caleb admired—a wolf comfortable in his skin and ready to take on the mantle of leadership.

Beside him, an older male with dark hair streaked with gray exuded a commanding aura, tempered by a warmth that hinted at an approachable nature.

Alpha Raelen, Caleb assumed, the male’s presence sending subtle ripples of authority through the air that raised the hair on Caleb’s nape.

Beside him, Ryker’s playful grin and relaxed stance contrasted with the quiet confidence of the russet-colored wolf standing next to him.

Their bond a clear, balanced partnership.

Fenrir’s voice rose again, laced with quiet respect. “Their leaders’ harmony flows into the pack. A unity of light and shadow. There is much to be learned here, Alpha.”

Fenrir’s insight settled beneath Caleb’s skin, the ancient wolf’s wisdom integrating into his muscles and bones as he stepped into the group’s orbit.

“Caleb, my friend,” Cian greeted warmly, stepping forward to clasp his forearm. “It feels like it’s been longer than a month.”

“Agreed. The summit feels like a lifetime ago,” Caleb replied with a faint grin, hazel eyes lighting with genuine warmth. “It’s good to see you, Cian. All of you.”

Cian’s expression sobered, speaking more quietly, “You’ve been busy. Bloodstone owes you. I’ve heard Crescent Fang’s strength turned the tide.”

“Bloodstone stood its ground,” Caleb deflected. “We only helped where we could.”

Cian’s smile widened, gesturing to the older wolf beside him. “I’d like you to meet my father, Alpha Raelen.”

Caleb offered a measured bow of respect. “Alpha Raelen, it’s an honor. Moonshadow’s reputation precedes you.”

“The honor is mine, Caleb.” Raelen’s expression warmed, his commanding presence tempered by respect as he clasped Caleb’s forearm. “I’ve heard much about you. You’ve done a great service for Bloodstone, and I look forward to getting to know you better.”

Before Caleb could respond, Ryker leaned in, his typical playfulness replaced by quiet concern. “Speaking of Crescent Fang…how’s Asher? We heard he was wounded.”

“He’s healing well, though the silver slowed him down.” Caleb’s composure cracked, revealing the fear he’d carried. “I thank Selene every day that his wolf is strong. He’s eager to be back at my side, and he’s looking forward to the alpha ceremony in Moonshadow.”

Caleb’s focus shifted to Lena, who had remained quietly attentive. His expression gentled as he addressed her. “Lena, congratulations on tonight’s ceremony,” he said. “Your words were powerful, and your presence was commanding. Bloodstone is fortunate to have you.”

Lena’s cheeks flushed as she dipped her head graciously. “Thank you, Alpha Caleb.” The slight tremor in her words betrayed a weariness she couldn’t fully conceal. “That means a lot.”

Her quiet determination reminded Caleb of what true leadership looked like—not always loud or imposing, but resolute and unyielding, even in the face of unimaginable grief.

She bore her burdens with an elegance that made it hard to look away, her strength anchoring those around her even as it left her raw.

In that moment, she reminded him of his mother. A female who’d carried wisdom and fire in equal measure. Who’d stood beside his father as a queen in her own right. Lena possessed that same power. The same grace under immense pressure that had made his mother so beloved throughout Crescent Fang.

Fenrir stirred with interest, presence vibrating with rare intensity.

“I think she carries the Goddess’s spirit, though her flame burns with a different light.

I wonder what fire lives within her wolf.

” Fenrir paused, as if considering something profound.

“When her burden lifts, that fire will burn brighter than ever before.”

“Lena’s been planning Cian’s alpha ceremony too,” Jace broke in with a teasing grin. “Though Ryker and I had to pick up the slack when she raced off to Bloodstone to play super-luna.”

Lena rolled her eyes, though her smile lingered. “Thanks for the support, Jace.”

Caleb’s lips quirked into a faint smile. “I’m looking forward to witnessing Moonshadow’s traditions. I suspect your ceremonies are as rooted in strength as they are in unity.”

“Cian has arranged a suite for you and your beta at the dormitories.” Raelen’s smile was welcoming.

“I know it’s a tenuous time to be away from your pack, but Moonshadow values the ties we’re building with Crescent Fang.

I hope you’ll stay so we can speak more formally about the future we might shape together. ”

Before Caleb could respond, Cian’s posture stiffened. His nostrils flared, and a faint rumble vibrated in his chest as his head snapped toward a point across the room. The future alpha’s demeanor transformed—focused, intense, as if drawn by an unseen force.

The group froze, watching as Cian stepped away without a word, moving through the crowd like a hunter who’d locked onto his target.

“Fate moves swiftly tonight,” Fenrir murmured

Cian stopped before a young she-wolf with wavy brown hair, flanked by an older couple. She looked up at him, stormy blue eyes wide.

The hall held its breath.

Cian cupped her cheek, his touch impossibly tender. “Mate.” The word resonated through the dining hall like the clatter of a bell.

“Yours,” she responded, breath hitching as happy tears glinted in her eyes.

Cian pulled her into a protective embrace, pressing a kiss to her temple. The atmosphere lightened, grief momentarily lifted by the beauty of this moment.

A delighted gasp pulled Caleb’s focus away from the fated pair. Lena’s hands flew to her mouth, golden-brown eyes widening as the anguish that had haunted her all evening dissolved into the brightest smile he’d yet witnessed from her.

“Oh, my Goddess!” she exclaimed. “That’s Lyric!

Cian’s mate is Elias’s sister.” Lena turned toward her father, voice tinged with awe and joy.

“Dad! She’s wonderful. Lyric has been one of the brightest spots for me this week, and I know that her light will shine brightly as Moonshadow’s future Luna.

” Lena pointed to the older couple standing beside Lyric.

“Her parents, Talon and Maris, have been so kind and strong. This is perfect.”

Raelen watched his son intently, pride and joy etched into every line of his face. He clasped Caleb’s shoulder briefly. “Excuse me. I am going to go meet my daughter-in-law and her parents.”

The group watched as Raelen made his way through the crowd, his towering stature commanding acknowledgement without effort.

A smile ghosted Caleb’s face as Cian introduced his father to Lyric’s family.

The sorrow that had permeated the dining hall shifted, replaced by a collective sense of hope and renewal.

“A union forged in grief, strengthened by love,” Fenrir murmured. “A blessing for both packs.”

Caleb returned his attention to the group around him. Ryker’s grin was as wide as Caleb had ever seen it, mischief dancing wickedly in his brown eyes.

“Well,” Ryker drawled, leaning toward Jace, “looks like our boy is about to have the best night of his life. Think we should crash at Lena’s tonight? Cian probably doesn’t want an audience while he fumbles his way through his first time.”

Lena let out an indignant snort, shoving Ryker in the chest. “Don’t be rude,” she scolded, though the laughter in her tone softened the reprimand. “But…” Her smile turned thoughtful. “A sleepover sounds amazing. It’s been way too long, and I’m sure Cian would love to have time alone with Lyric.”

“Sounds like a plan.” Ryker smirked as he turned back to Jace. “We’ll have to make sure he knows how to find the clit before we leave, though.”

“ Stop !” Lena’s cheeks flushed as she swatted his arm. “Cian doesn’t need your tips. He’ll figure it out.”

Jace turned to Lena, brow raised with curiosity. “Do you think this will change the alpha ceremony? Will Lyric take her oaths alongside Cian?”

Lena hesitated, mouth pulled to once side as she considered. “I’m not sure. I’ll check with Nerina, but I don’t know what the protocol is in a situation like this. I don’t think it happens often.”

“Looks like someone needs to brush up on their ceremony knowledge. You’re slipping, Thing 1,” Ryker teased.

Lena rolled her eyes, but her grin gave away her amusement. “Thanks for the vote of confidence, guys. I’ll figure it out.”

Caleb chuckled softly, shaking his head.

“You might want to check with Cian first,” he interjected.

“Some newly mated pairs take time to grow their bond or complete the claiming rite before officially recognizing their mating. Lyric may also want time to bond with the pack before taking her oaths. They may likely wait until their mating ceremony.”

Life returned to Lena’s complexion, excitement undeterred. “That makes sense. It’ll give them time to adjust and prepare. I’ve really enjoyed helping with rituals, and I’d love to be part of Lyric’s transition when the time comes.”

The conversation was interrupted by a light tap on Caleb’s shoulder.

“Alpha Caleb,” came a familiar voice.

Caleb spun around, straightening as Bloodstone’s heir stood before him. Kai’s expression was controlled but taut with something unspoken.