It’s not too late though,he says.Your gift is still there, it just needs polishing.
I know, I would need someone to train me though,I admit.And I’m not sure if I’m ready for Dad to whoop my ass… in a metaphorical sense. I don’t think he’s aware of how little I truly trained it.
I can see Liam frowning a bit, and I can't really blame him for it.
Then I’ll train you,he offers.
I can barely believe my ears.You would?
Sure.
You have so much on your plate. You’re alpha of a huge pack, you’re going to be a father and—”
Marius,he chuckles.I can spare a bit of time for my brother. So, either it’s a yes or no. Which is it?
I contemplate his offer for a moment, then I nod.I’d love to train my gift more. So, yes, I’ll take you up on your offer.
Liam nods contently before both of us join the conversation again. Fortunately, the others didn’t realize we were having our own little conversation. Dad and Jace are still discussing a few pack issues, politics, and Aurelia.
“I have high hopes for Aurelia,” Dad admits.
“We all do,” Finn agrees. “She’s going to start college in a month, and she’s so diligent with both her studies and training.”
“Is she really that strong?” Cedric asks curiously.
“I have seen her fight a few times,” Brian tells him. “She’s like a ninja. She can actually teleport or freeze time during a battle… I'm not sure which it is.”
“Wow, that’s handy,” Cedric admits. “I wish I could do that.”
“Celine is very skilled too,” I say proudly, not able to stop myself from boasting a bit. “She can see the possible outcome of every battle move before it happens. It gives her a real advantage.”
“And she has those kickass witch powers,” Finn adds.
Cedric smiles warmly at our words, his eyes shining with pride.
“And what about your kids, Brian?” Jace asks Annie’s dad.
He beams as his eyes light up. “Harmony is Celine’s beta, and she’s doing incredibly well. I’m so proud! And we don’t really need to mention my Annie, I’m guessing. And Steve. Steve has come into his own skills. He’s become so strong and has devoted himself fully to his training. He’s actually going to train with the elites now.”
“Awesome,” Jace says sarcastically. “Are you three doing this to me on purpose right now? Telling me about how fantastic all of your children are doing?” he asks dryly. “Don’t get me wrong, I’m happy for you… but I would be even happier if I could say the same. Meanwhile, I’m stuck with my reckless boys.”
It’s obvious he doesn’t really mean it and that he loves them. I know him well enough to know how much they mean to him.
I link Liam.Are they that problematic?
Liam sighs.The younger one of the twins likes to sleep around, and the older one has an anger problem. They are not particularly bad, but they definitely need some attitude adjustments. That’s why Jace is so worried.
“They just turned eighteen,” Cedric points out. “Don’t worry too much. They are strong and capable firstborns to a lycan alpha. They’ll come around; they just need more time to find their path.”
“I agree,” I nod. “Look at me. I was quite a mess too, until recently.”
“Why don’t your boys join Finn on his mission?” Dad asks out of the blue.
Liam’s eyes brighten at the idea. “That’s not a bad idea. Steve will be there, and he’s the same age as your twins. They might enjoy the challenge, and Finn will lead the group as he’s very capable. We’ve actually entrusted the whole mission to him.”
Finn’s eyes light up from the glowing support Liam just offered him. When Dad asked if he wanted to lead the mission to Blood Snow, he’d immediately agreed to take up the challenge and help the victims. Yet somehow, I don’t think it sunk in until now, how much faith everyone has in Finn’s skills as a leader.
We start explaining the mission to Jace and why we’re sending a group to Blood Snow. Jace’s eyes light up. “I think this is perfect for them. They could use a little wake-up call anyway and some attitude adjustment. Traveling with your group, Finn, and helping these victims might be what they need.” He pauses, showing us a lopsided grin. “But… are you really up for the task of babysitting them?” He grins as Finn just sighs. “Don’t worry, you will have all the authority. You have my blessing to whoop their asses if you want to. Please feel free to do so anytime.”