Beasts

by Angelina Kanan

  I laid there, watching the sun rise through my window. We were going to the festival today. I had to win people over and that required focus. I needed today to work. I couldn’t disappoint Jackson.

  Time passed quickly, a knock at my door alerting me that it was time for the day to start. “Rise and shine!” Brett sang, entering a moment later. He had a bowl of fruit and a mug of coffee. “I am here to get you ready for the day. Lover boy wanted to bring this to you, but I missed you, so I’m here instead.”

  Relief flooded my body. I needed Brett here with me. He was the only one who was still with me from my pack. “Thanks, Brett. Are you going to the festival, too?” He handed me the bowl and set the coffee down on the nightstand beside the bed. I sat up, thanking him as I began eating.

  “Unfortunately, reapers stay away out of respect to celebrations. They can’t all be as friendly as I am, so the lycans prefer we stay away.”

  I frowned, “I’m sure Sebastian would let you be there if you wanted to. He knows you.”

  Brett waved a hand nonchalantly, “I’ve snuck in every year, I just wanted you to know that I’m not supposed to be there should you see me. So, don’t blow my cover.”

  I laughed, “I don’t think you’d get in trouble.”

  “You don’t really know them, Selene.”

  “Are they bad?” My nerves were back, stomach swirling again. “I met these 2 girls last night, and they were not pleasant. I’m worried about today. They kept saying I have to win the people over or we won’t be mated?”

  “Okay, I can’t say they’re bad because I don’t know all of them. I just meant they aren’t all as adaptable as you. A lot of them are set in their ways. Things have been the way they are for centuries with lycans. They are very hesitant to trust change.” That made sense. Change was scary. “However, you have nothing to fear. Leith, Cain, even Sebastian were all won over by you.”

  My eyes narrowed at him as I sipped my coffee slowly. This would be instrumental in my success today. With so little sleep, I’d need the coffee to soothe my soul. “You aren’t denying that they can stop the mating.”

  Brett was rummaging around in the closet but stopped when I said that. He sighed, looking nervous. “They can only do what you let them do. They’re meant to be a challenge to you. Technically, they do have the ability to stop it, should you not succeed in the challenge, but that’s not going to happen.”

  That’s why the girls had been questioning my strength. “A challenge like a fight?”

  “Yeah, something like that.” He pulled something out of the closet. “Do you have a color preference?” He was holding up a pair of harem pants. I made a face at them, preferring to wear leggings. You never know when you need to be able to move, and I didn’t want baggy clothes. He smirked at me. “You aren’t getting out of this, Selene. This is the proper festival attire. Everyone wears them. You can choose your own shirt, but they like these pants for their dancing.”

  “What if they need to fight? How do they move in those things?”

  He stared at me, his mouth slightly open, “Selene, there is no fighting during festival. It’s forbidden. Punishable by death.”

  That seemed extreme to me, but I wasn’t going to be questioning their customs. “Okay. I can wear a tank top with it, right?”

  “Yes, of course. Come pick a color, though.”

  ✽✽✽

  “These are beautiful.” I had been drawn to a table filled with some sort of flower accessory. There were different clips and pins that I recognized, different jewels and flowers on them. Long strands of silver chains were adorned with glittery flowers. This must’ve caught my eye for longer than I thought, as the lycan behind the table picked one up, looking at me hopefully.

  “Do you like it, Princess?” She had a tentative smile on her face, holding the jewelry up for inspection.

  “Call me, Selene. Please. And I love it. Are they real flowers?”

  “I am Elena.” She nodded, “And yes, these are fresh ones. We embalm them with magic from the Moon Pool, so they last as long as the moon goddess will grant. They can sometimes last up to several weeks.” I was mesmerized. They looked like magic. “Would you like it?”

  I looked back up at her, shocked. “I’m afraid I don’t even know what it is.”

  She giggled, “They’re vines for your hair. May I?” She motioned toward my head. “They’d be perfect in your braid.” I was thankful Brett had let me wear my loose French braid, excited to try the hair piece on. I nodded, a smile taking over my face. She took a few seconds to set it into place and then stood back to smile at me. “You look beautiful.”

  “She does, doesn’t she?” Sebastian came from behind, startling me. “You’ve outdone yourself this year, Elena. The glitter is a wonderful touch.” He handed over some coins to her, smiling.

  “No need.” She held up her hand. “This is my gift to Selene. You’re changing things for the better, it’s the least I can do to thank you.”

  “If you won’t let me pay for this one, at least let me buy another?” I wanted her to know how lovely her jewelry was. She was reluctant but agreed, anyway.

  Sebastian took my hand and led me away. “I didn’t realize you had an interest in jewelry. Allow me to show you around.”

  He led me to several tables, all filled with impressive accessories. I couldn’t help myself from getting entranced everywhere we went. The artistry and dedication were obvious no matter what we looked at. I had never been one for wearing things that weren’t necessary, but I found myself decorated in plenty very quickly. Glass bangles decorated one of my arms, rings of moonstone scattered across my fingers, my ears covered in cuffs and gems. I was laughing and greeting people, sharing their joy and craftsmanship.

  We passed by countless tents, beautiful dresses and shawls hanging out to be looked at. Some had bags, or belts, or shoes. Others had artwork, wood carvings, glass sculptures, drawings. I was helpless, Sebastian having to drag me away from each stand. I had no thought of cost, picking something out no matter what the table displayed. It was wonderful.

  There were performers at every corner, some painting, some playing music. Stages were set up on each street, people randomly stepping up to dance and entertain. I stopped by some painters. It delighted them to turn my body into artwork. I heard tales of the magic of the Moon Pool. Much like the flowers could be kept longer, so could their special paint. They believed that because of their festivals, the moon goddess blessed them. Each painter had a fresh idea for me. They covered my body in swirling patterns, some made up of the moon and stars, others shimmering with glitter. When my arms had been covered, my stomach and back were filled, then my neck, and my face. They intoxicated me with their joy.

  “Are you hungry?” Sebastian interrupted my thoughts. I had hardly noticed how much time had passed, but realized I was starving.

  “Do we have to go back to the castle?”

  “Would you like to?”

  I looked around, not ready to part with the festival. I couldn’t get enough. “No, I don’t.”

  “Then no, we don’t have to. There’s food, we just have to get there.” He gave me a mischievous smile, before tugging on my hand and weaving through the crowd. He was quick, darting around people. I laughed, excited as I kept up behind him. I didn’t know why he chose to run, but we were having fun. He kept looking behind him, grinning at me, and picking up the pace. We finally came to a stop, his arms catching me and keeping me steady. We were panting slightly, smiles still on our faces. Time slowed around us as we stood there touching, neither of us wanting to break the spell.

  “Why were we running?”

  “Wanted to see if you could keep up?” He teased.

  “Shocked?”

  “Not even a little.” He pulled away, taking my hand with him.

  I looked around, noticing the unfamiliar area we’d found our way to. Rather than art and jewels, the street was filled with food; the scent mixing in the air. It was overwhelming,
every table having something different. Sebastian led me around each table, sampling things as we went. He said we could pick some of my favorites and come back when I decided what I wanted. There was no way I could possibly pick a favorite, each thing just as good as the last. It was a never-ending endeavor of flavor, my taste buds dancing wildly in my mouth. I knew my way around a kitchen, but I was no chef. These samples were mini masterpieces.

  We had made our way down several streets and I’d had dozens of samples. Sebastian seemed to know what to choose at each table, catching up with someone at each stand. He had every sample I did, watching my reaction to be sure I enjoyed it. “How is this so good?” I moaned, a delicate piece of meat melting in my mouth like butter.

  He took a slow step toward me, his eyes darkening. I froze, not intending to have gotten this reaction. His eyes were fixed on my lips as he continued to move closer. Slowly, he reached his hand up to my face, fingertips dancing over the paint on my cheek. He held my face in his hands, his body pressing gently against mine, as he lowered his face toward mine. “May I?” It was just like it had been back at Old Moon in the library. He was making sure this was my choice. My heart was racing, my nerves on end. I could feel my hands shaking in anticipation, my lungs struggling to take in enough air. Tingles followed where his hands touched, and I leaned forward to meet his lips, unable to stand being apart any longer. Any of our problems could be dealt with later. Right now, I wanted this. My arms found themselves around his neck, fingers brushing through his hair. I forgot where we were, what we were there for. I forgot everything except for him. It took my senses over. His scent clouded my thoughts, his touch setting my body on fire. His mouth was timid, slow and soft against mine. We moved together, a gentle dance of exploration. My mind was overrun with thoughts of him, my wolf restless. He was mine. My mate. This was what the moon goddess had given us, and it felt perfect. Sebastian pulled away slowly, his eyes darkening still. I could tell he was struggling to stay in control.

  “It’s getting late.” I looked around, surprised by the night sky. The day had passed by so effortlessly. I had felt nothing but freedom and joy all day. There were some people looking at us, others averting their eyes. I felt my face heating up, realizing what we had just done. “Can I walk you back to your room?”

  I nodded, not trusting myself to speak.

  CHAPTER 28

  I spent the way back to my room trying to talk myself out of my worries. Today had been wonderful. It filled me with hope for the future, excited to be welcomed by my people. Peace was something I had always wanted, but I knew I would do anything to attain it now. My people were incredible, their love for one another and for life boundless. I had only seen a glimpse of their incredible talent. They had spent years and years at their crafts, working to better themselves for each new festival. Despite the fun I’d had, I was still bothered by what had occurred at the council meeting. I wasn’t the kind of person who enjoyed playing games, and I wanted to bring up my worries to Sebastian. I just wasn’t certain if I wanted to risk ruining everything that had happened today.

  I invited him into my room, deciding I needed answers to my questions. “Lucian said a thing that’s been bothering me.” I started nervously. I didn’t want to know that Lucian had been right. Sebastian took a seat at the edge of the bed, tugging on my hand for me to sit with him.

  “My brother can be a troublemaker.”

  “He implied you may have had romances before I came into the picture.”

  “With Nomi and Tasmin?”

  My heart fluttered painfully. “It’s true, then?”

  “I am very close with both of them as they are part of my council, but there was never romance.”

  My mind kept repeating him hugging one of them, his face filled with joy. “So, her nickname for you, the way they spoke to you, none of that comes from love?”

  He shrugged, “Of course it comes from love. I’ve known them for years. We’ve all been through a lot together.”

  I frowned at him, my instincts not trusting what he said. “Is there anything I don’t know?”

  Sebastian sighed, standing from the bed and walking toward the window. “They don’t like that you’re only half lycan.”

  “Yeah, they made that clear.” I stood up, too.

  He rubbed a hand through his hair, “I can’t control how they feel, Selene.”

  “Yes, that was obvious, too.” I was agitated, my gut telling me there was still something he was keeping from me.

  “What is that supposed to mean?” His wolf growled, not liking my attitude.

  “The way they talk to you. They questioned almost everything you said, and you let them.”

  “I respect their opinions; they've earned it. They’re just looking out for me.”

  “Against me?” I took a step back, hurt.

  He closed his eyes. “If they have a reason to, yes.”

  “So, they’d get rid of me? And you’d let them?”

  “I don’t control that, Selene.” He came back to the bed and sat down. He looked tired. “There’s a reason I sent Leith to awaken your lycan strength. Please sit. I did everything I could to help you.”

  I sat hesitantly, “Help me what, Sebastian?”

  “As part of the mating ritual, there’s a Hunt. We’ll be sent out in different parts of the woods, tasked with finding each other. Members of the pack are free to challenge you in an attempt to prevent us meeting.”

  “What happens if they win?”

  He hesitated. “It hasn’t happened in a long time. The outcome can vary. Sometimes the winner wishes to become their mate, and the original wolf has to suffer watching them live out their life together. Other times, they have killed the wolf. I’ve even seen the mating ritual be performed again, years later, successfully.”

  “Why didn’t you say something sooner?”

  “I didn’t think it would be a problem.”

  “How would it not be a problem? They clearly don’t like me. What if I can’t fight them off? What am I supposed to do then? What would that mean for the treaty?” How could he not see it? “She called you Seb.”

  “I’ve known her forever.” He grabbed my hands, “There is no one else. There has never been someone else.” One of his hands found my cheek, “Selene, there will never be anyone else.”

  “Meaning I’m going to die, or I’ll have to try again.”

  He shook his head, “You’ve so little faith? We can do this. I would never let harm come to you.”

  “You already said it yourself. You can’t control it.” I felt sick. The obstacles never seemed to stop. I’d been denied my mate for 6 years, and after finally getting him, it could be for nothing? I moved away from him, going across the room to gain some distance. A lump was forming in my throat as I blinked back tears. I wanted one thing in my life to be easy.

  “Please, you’ve trusted me this far, yes? Don’t give up yet.”

  “You should’ve told me.”

  “Okay, yes, I’m sorry. I really didn’t think it mattered.”

  “Sebastian this could jeopardize the treaty!” I finally had something to move toward. I was no longer running away from my nightmare. I wanted this future here.

  “Is that what this is about?” His voice was soft, emphasizing the pain.

  “Of course, it is.” The tears were back, unwilling to go away. “Our future depends on that treaty. We need it.”

  ✽✽✽

  Brett joined me for breakfast again, listening as I filled him in about the night before. I chose to wear green today, layering myself in many of the trinkets I had gained at the festival. He had reassured me that Sebastian was telling the truth, he wouldn’t let any harm come to me. He also reminded me I had become the first female alpha. I had overcome every other obstacle life had thrown at me. Why wouldn’t I win this one?

  I went back to the festival as soon as I could, itching to learn more. I retraced my steps from the day before, visiting those I remembered. I wanted
them to know me apart from Sebastian. I took a different road at some point and ended up in an unfamiliar area. There were displays of weapons everywhere I turned. I did not understand why they had any need for weapons, as none of them would kill a lycan aside from silver directly in the heart. These weapons weren’t even silver. They looked like they were glass.

  I ran my hand along the edge of something I didn’t recognize. These were beautiful. “What are these made of if you don’t mind me asking?” I looked up at the person behind the table to find it was Cain.

  He smiled at me kindly, “Moonstone, Princess. Mined in the island itself, right over there.” He motioned off in the distance, and I stared, wondering how much this island hid. So far there was both a moon pool and mountains.

  “Did you make these?” I was amazed at how he had the time. I’d only known the man who trained diligently day and night.

  “If only.” He laughed, “My mate,” He nodded to a woman talking to another customer. “She spends all year designing unique weapons and then tasking others with bringing them to life. Very talented, eh?”

  “Wait, all of these are hers?” There were so many, there was no way she did all this in a year.

  “She’s the favorite. Many on the island compete to help bring her visions to life. Others compete to learn by her side.”

  “What do you use them for?”

  “Decoration, mostly.” She glided over elegantly. “I’m Reya.”

  “Selene.”

  Her eyes sparkled, “I know. Cain has spoken very highly of you. He says you show great promise as a warrior.”

  Pride swelled in my chest, and I smiled at her, then Cain. I worked very hard to be as good as I was, and to hear that it paid off felt good. “Thank you. Your work is beautiful.”