Page 8 of The Alpha's Auctioned Pregnant Mate

"I hate to say it," Articus began, "but I guess this makes me the only one in our generation who's still single and childless."

Cassius let out a bark of laughter. "Don't sound so sad about it, Cousin. Trust me, there are days I envy your freedom."

While I envy the rest of you and your lack of it.

They made their way to what appeared to be Cassius's office, a spacious room with large windows overlooking the compound.

As they settled into comfortable leather chairs, Cassius's expression turned serious once more. "Articus, I won't lie to you. I'm struggling. Being an Alpha, a father, trying to navigate the politics of our side of the mountain... it's a lot.”

“I desperately need a mate, someone to share this burden with, to help me raise Aurora. But finding the time to even think about that seems impossible right now."

Articus leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees. "I can't imagine how difficult this must be for you, Cassius. Is there anything I can do to help?"

Cassius shook his head. "You being here is help enough. Having you witness the ceremony, lending the White Moon pack's support to my ascension as Alpha... it means more than you know."

They sat in companionable silence for a moment, the weight of their responsibilities settling around them like a familiar cloak.

Finally, Cassius spoke again. "Since you're here fulfilling your White family duty, there's something else I think you should experience."

Articus raised an eyebrow. "Oh?"

"The Dark Side of the mountain," Cassius said, his tone serious. "The real Dark Side of the mountain. It's one thing to hear about it, another to see it for yourself. I think it's important for you to understand what we're dealing with here."

Articus nodded slowly. "I admit, I'm curious. The stories we hear on our side... sometimes it's hard to believe they're real."

Cassius's laugh was devoid of humor. "Oh, they're real alright. And probably worse than you've heard. But seeing is believing. After the ceremony, I'll take you into town. Show you what life is like beyond the safety of our compound walls."

The idea both excited and unnerved Articus. He'd heard stories of the Dark Side all his life—tales of savage rogues, of packs that operated more like crime syndicates, of dangers that went beyond the natural world.

Part of him had always dismissed them as exaggerations, cautionary tales told to keep young wolves in line. But the look in Cassius's eyes told him he might need to reassess that belief.

"I appreciate that, Cousin," Articus said. "It's important for me to understand what you're facing here. As Alpha of the White Moon pack, I need to know what's happening on both sides of the mountain."

Cassius nodded, seemingly relieved by Articus's acceptance. "Good. It'll be an eye-opening experience, I promise you that."

As if on cue, a knock sounded at the door. A young wolf entered, bowing his head respectfully. "Alpha, the other pack leaders have begun to arrive for the ceremony."

Cassius stood, straightening his clothes. "Thank you, Darius. We'll be right there." He turned to Articus. "Ready to meet some of the most powerful—and dangerous—Alphas on this side of the mountain?"

Articus stood as well, squaring his shoulders. "As ready as I'll ever be."

As they made their way to the grand hall where the ceremony would take place, Cassius filled Articus in on some of the key players he was about to meet.

"First, there's Aleksander Einar of the Iron Fang pack," Cassius explained. "They control most of the mining operations in the northern territories. Tough as nails and not afraid to get his hands dirty."

Articus nodded, committing the name to memory. "Sounds like a formidable ally—or enemy."

"Then we have Selena Nightshade of the Shadow Walker pack," Cassius continued. "Don't let her beauty fool you—she's as cunning as they come. Her pack specializes in... let's call it information gathering."

"Spies," Articus translated, and Cassius didn't correct him.

"You'll also meet Ragnar Stormborn of the Thunder Claw pack. They're our first line of defense against threats from beyond the mountain range. Ragnar's a bit of a wild card but fiercely loyal once you earn his trust."

“There are some other Alphas who are unable to make the gathering due to pressing concerns in their territories.” As they approached the grand hall, Articus could already hear the murmur of voices within. Cassius paused before the doors, turning to him with a serious expression.

"Remember, Articus—things work differently here than on your side of the mountain. Alliances shift like the wind, and everyone is always looking for an angle. Watch your words, and don't make any promises you can't keep."

Articus nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. This wasn't just a family obligation anymore—it was a delicate political dance, one that could have far-reaching consequences for both their packs.

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