Garrick crossed the familiar borders of the Shadow Fang Pack territory, his heart swelling with relief as the towering pines gave way to the open expanse of the pack's stronghold. The scent of his people—the earthy musk of wolves—was a welcome comfort after days spent navigating rogue lands. He was home.
The pack greeted him warmly, wolves of all ranks gathering to welcome their Beta back. Garrick was respected among his people, not just for his loyalty to Lucifer but for his strategic mind and unflinching courage. His absence had been felt, and now his return brought relief.
"Beta Garrick!" a young wolf called out, bowing his head in respect. Others followed suit, murmuring greetings and stepping aside as Garrick strode through the crowd.
Standing at the heart of the gathering was Lucifer, the Alpha. His presence was magnetic, his piercing black eyes commanding attention without a word. Taller than most of his pack, with a sharp jawline and an air of quiet authority, Lucifer was both feared and revered.
"Garrick," Lucifer said, his deep voice cutting through the murmurs of the crowd. "You're back. I trust your mission was a success?"
Garrick nodded, his face composed. "I've gathered the information we need, Alpha. The rogues are as scattered as we suspected. Their leader, Kael, is reckless but dangerous. I'll share the details at the next council meeting."
Lucifer's sharp gaze lingered on Garrick for a moment before he nodded. "Good work. We'll discuss it further tonight."
Before Garrick could respond, a familiar voice interrupted. "Lucifer."
Lucifer turned, his expression tightening as his mother approached. The matriarch of the Shadow Fang Pack was a regal woman, her silver hair pulled back into an intricate braid that spoke of her status. Her blue eyes carried the weight of decades of wisdom, but there was a determined edge to her gaze as she looked at her son.
"It's time we talk about your mate," she said, her tone firm.
Lucifer's jaw clenched, his irritation barely concealed. "Mother, not now."
"Yes, now," she replied, undeterred. "You've delayed long enough. The pack needs an heir, and your responsibilities as Alpha demand that you find a Luna. There are strong candidates in neighboring packs—wolves who would strengthen our alliances."
Lucifer exhaled sharply, his patience wearing thin. "I've told you before, I won't choose a mate out of obligation. My Luna will be someone I choose, not someone handed to me for political gain."
His mother's eyes narrowed. "And how long will we wait for you to make that choice? The pack cannot afford your hesitation, Lucifer. You are the Alpha, and your duty is to the pack first."
The tension between them was palpable, but Lucifer held his ground. "My mate will come when the time is right. I don't need anyone forcing my hand."
With that, he turned away, signaling the end of the conversation. His mother watched him go, her lips pressed into a thin line, but she said nothing more.
*******
Back in the pit, Mia's suffering continued. The relentless labor, the suffocating heat, and the constant watchful eyes of Kael's guards wore on her body and spirit. Yet she refused to break. Every day was a battle, and every moment she survived was a victory.
Her interactions with Serena, Kael's wife, had become a lifeline. Serena was unlike anyone else in the rogue pack—kind, thoughtful, and quietly rebellious. She had taken an interest in Mia, offering her small acts of kindness that made the harsh reality of the pit slightly more bearable.
That evening, as the workers were being herded back to their quarters, Serena approached Mia. Her dark hair was tied back, and her piercing blue eyes held a softness reserved only for Mia.
"Are you holding up?" Serena asked, her voice low enough that the guards wouldn't hear.
Mia nodded, though the exhaustion in her face was evident. "I'm fine. I've survived worse."
Serena frowned, her gaze flickering to the bruises on Mia's arms and the raw blisters on her hands. "You shouldn't have to survive like this. It's not right."
Mia hesitated, unsure how to respond. She had learned to guard her emotions, to keep her vulnerabilities hidden. But there was something about Serena's concern that made her want to open up.
"Why do you care?" Mia asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
Serena's expression softened further. "Because I see you, Mia. You don't belong here. You're strong, and you're meant for something more. I can feel it."
Mia's throat tightened, a mix of gratitude and disbelief swelling within her. "I don't know what I'm meant for," she admitted. "All I know is that I can't stay here forever."
Serena glanced around, ensuring no one was listening. "I've been thinking. There's a way out of this place—but it's dangerous. If you're willing to take the risk, I'll help you."
Mia's heart raced at the possibility of escape, but she knew better than to trust easily. "Why would you help me? If Kael finds out…"
Serena's jaw tightened, her resolve clear. "Let me worry about Kael. You just need to decide if you're ready to fight for your freedom."
Mia stared at Serena, her mind racing. Could she trust her? Could she risk it? The thought of freedom was tempting, but the dangers were undeniable. Still, she couldn't ignore the spark of hope Serena had ignited within her.
"I'll think about it," Mia said finally, her voice steady despite the turmoil in her chest.
Serena nodded, her expression unreadable. "Don't take too long. Opportunities like this don't come often."
As Serena walked away, Mia leaned against the cold stone wall of the pit, her thoughts swirling. She wanted to believe in Serena, to believe that escape was possible. But she had learned the hard way that trust could be dangerous.
For now, all she could do was survive—and hope that her chance would come.