Once Torture Her, Twice Fear Her

THIRD PERSON'S POV

"This is why I want to join your pack alliances..."

The gathering was a grand affair, the Ironclaw Pack’s great hall abuzz with the murmurs and movements of its members and guests from different neighboring packs. The air was thick with tension as Alpha Soren, now a young and troubled leader, engaged in a critical negotiation with Alpha Gideon Ironhart of the Shadowbane Pack. The atmosphere crackled with anticipation, as Soren, once the young boy of the pack, now stood as the Alpha of a faltering pack desperate for an alliance.

Under Soren’s leadership, the Ironclaw Pack had grown increasingly weak. Rogue attacks were frequent, the pack’s borders were collapsing, and they had already lost significant parts of their territory. It was clear to everyone that something had to be done, and quickly. That was why Soren was here today—hoping to secure the protection and strength of Alpha Gideon’s formidable pack.

Alpha Gideon, a tall and imposing figure with a reputation that preceded him, regarded Soren with a steely gaze. His presence alone seemed to fill the room, his aura one of undeniable authority and power. Soren, although determined, appeared slightly anxious under Gideon’s scrutinizing stare. His wolf didn't like the intensity of the other Alpha's wolf.

“I only want the strongest packs in my alliance,” Gideon stated firmly, his voice resonating with a commanding tone. “Your pack is very weak. I heard a lot of news about Ironclaw. Why should I accept you?”

Upon hearing that, Soren swallowed hard, feeling the weight of the moment. “You can name any conditions you want,” he replied, trying to maintain composure. “I’ll agree to them as an exchange.”

Gideon’s eyes narrowed slightly, considering the offer. “Any conditions?”

“Yes, any conditions,” Soren affirmed. He was willing to do whatever it took to secure his pack’s safety and restore its former strength. Of course, once that happened he would be a lot more powerful.

At that moment, Celestine walked towards them, her presence barely noticed amidst the tension. She moved with practiced grace, a faint smile on her lips as she carried a tray of wine. She approached the table where Gideon and her brother sat, his dark eyes locked onto her. Her heart raced as she approached, aware of the weight of the authority of the man before her.

As she poured the wine for Gideon, she felt his intense gaze upon her. Startled by his intimidating presence, her hand shook slightly, causing the wine to spill over the rim of the glass. The deep red liquid splashed onto the table and Gideon’s fine clothing.

Gideon’s brow furrowed, a slight frown appearing on his face as he registered the mistake. Before he could address the issue, Soren’s mate, now the Luna of the Ironclaw Pack, reacted swiftly. Talia's eyes flashed with irritation as she grabbed a whip from her side.

"Goodness!"

With a harsh crack, the whip lashed out, connecting with Celestine’s back and knocking her to the ground. The sharp sting of the whip was accompanied by a loud gasp from the assembled guests. Celestine’s eyes widened in shock and pain, her body crumpling as she hit the floor.

The Luna’s voice was cold but laced with a false sweetness as she addressed Gideon. “I’m so sorry, Alpha. This slave is too careless and has dirtied your clothes. I’ll punish her right away.”

The Luna raised the whip again, her intent clear in the way she tightened her grip. Celestine, now on the ground, instinctively covered her head with her arms, her body trembling in fear.

Just as Talia was about to whip her again, a powerful hand shot out and gripped the whip.