Ch. 481..490

Chapter 481 An Alpha and a witch (2)

Yasmin was never intimate with a man, but priestesses taught her about body parts and how things work, and she wondered if Axel's thing will fit in her because just his finger was making her feel the fullness in her.

Any thoughts of caution disappeared when Axel added a second finger and started thrusting inside her while his palm pressed on her clit.

His touch was electric, making her whole body hum and she rocked her hips to meet his hand.

Yasmin gripped Axel's back and buried her face in the crook of his neck, her labored breaths splashed on his skin, telling him to keep going. And he did.

"Ah… Ah… AH!", she cried as her body trembled, getting closer to the climax with each stroke, and Axel groaned while imagining his cock in there instead of his fingers.

Without any warning, Yasmin's hand fell on top of Axel's and she applied pressure to push his hand away.

Axel paused, wondering if he did something wrong. He thought he was doing great, and she responded wonderfully, and thanks to the mate bond he could feel that she was aroused and happy, but then… maybe he didn't interpret the signals correctly.

"Did I hurt you?", he asked.

Yasmin shook her head.

"Was it not good?"

She shook her head again.

Axel was at a loss. Did she change her mind? "Then, what?"

"Not with hand.", she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

He was confused. "Don't you like it?"

"For the first time, not with hand." She took two deep breaths and forced herself to look into his honeyed eyes. "Witches follow what nature and our instincts tell us and right now… my instincts are telling me to merge with my mate and not just his hand."

It took him a second to understand what she was saying, and he swiftly moved on top of her, to settle between her legs.

His hard cock pressed between her folds and both of them inhaled sharply at the sparks that tingled their most sensitive parts.

Axel's hips rocked and he started grinding himself on her, every move had more confidence than the previous one as he coated his shaft with her juices.

He kissed her deeply, and he loved the sensation of her little tongue dancing with his. Right then and there, he ascertained that kissing Yasmin will be his favorite thing to do for the years to come.

Axel couldn't believe that this was happening.

He longed for his mate forever. He imagined that the woman will be tall or short, slim or chubby, blonde, brunette, redhead, and anything in between, but he never imagined anyone so perfect. Yasmin was perfect. For him.

Yasmin's hips moved to meet Axel's, and just how it happened with his finger, they both froze when their angles changed and his tip pressed against her entrance.

Her gaze didn't waver, silently telling him to keep going.

Axel swallowed hard and he didn't break eye contact as his hand moved between them to guide himself to the right position.

Slowly, very slowly he pushed against her, and a vein popped on his forehead at the sensation of her hot flesh gripping his cock firmly. It was heavenly, and every cell in his body screamed for more, but he forced himself to move slowly as he didn't want to hurt her more than he already did.

Yasmin's mouth was open in a silent cry at the scorching sensation of her insides stretching to accommodate his length. This was definitely much more than his two fingers and she was back to wondering if he will fit.

The priestesses told her that during the first entry there will be a sharp pain, but this whole thing hurt like hell, and she wondered if the sharp pain happened already, or was it yet to come. But she didn't hate it because it all came wrapped in a layer of addictive sparks, and she wondered if she was losing her mind when she could feel so much pleasure with pain.

Yasmin blinked her tears away to see better because she was not sure if she was imagining that Axel's eyes shimmered in silvery light.

Axel gripped her hip and in one quick stroke buried himself for that last inch.

Yasmin saw stars, and she held onto his back like holding onto her dear life.

A fierce growl ripped from Axel's chest as searing energy spread through his veins, threatening to burn him alive. His whole body buzzed, and he could clearly feel the woman below him. They were one.

Axel's hips rocked a bit and Yasmin gasped. He moved again, and again, struggling to control his thrusts and not give in to the maddening desire to plunder her insides.

Axel never felt anything like it. His cock was enveloped in her wet heat that clutched him in an airtight grip to deliver addictive sparks straight into his brain, and he hoped that this will never end. Unfortunately, after only a few thrusts he became aware of an incoming orgasm that threatened to come too soon, and he knew that he can't stop it so his mission became to make Yasmin come first.

- - -

--- This work is published on the NovelFire platform . Thank you for reading from the original site to support the author! ---

- - -

Axel started kissing and sucking her neck, nipping occasionally, and then licking her there while searching for the perfect spot.

Yasmin was lost in the sensation of Axel all around her, and inside as well. The pressure in her core was building up at an alarming rate, and she feared that she might pass out if this lasts much longer, but she didn't want it to end.

"Axel… Axel…", she chanted wantonly, spurring him to move faster.

Her body moved on its own to respond to his, all the pain long forgotten, leaving only pleasure and need for more.

Axel's instincts took over and he shifted a bit to change the angle of his thrust, hoping that he won't come too soon because she was almost there. He smiled when Yasmin's moan told him he was on the right track, and he was back to nipping her neck, waiting for the right time to put his mark on her flesh.

Yasmin's body tensed below him, and she exploded in a cry a moment before piercing pain assaulted her neck.

Yasmin felt the heat spreading and her whole body was threatening to combust from the overload of sensations as Axel rammed himself inside her mercilessly.

Axel groaned when her tight pussy clenched around him, pushing him over the edge and he exploded to shoot his seed inside her, thrusting in shaky movements to prolong their flight.

Yasmin was dazed and her body twitched as he licked the spot where he bit her. It was super-sensitive.

"Axel…", she called breathily.

"Mine", he growled.

After making sure he licked her neck well to heal quickly, Axel lifted his head to look at Yasmin.

Her flushed face was adorable and he gave himself a thumbs up for enduring and not coming first.

Axel cleared his throat. "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Axel Moonrider, Alpha of the Midnight Guardians pack."

Yasmine blinked. "Don't you think we should do the introduction before sex?"

Axel's eyes widened, and he reminded her, "I wanted to talk first, but you said that we should do other things, so…" His voice trailed.

Yasmine giggled, making her insides squeeze around him because he was still sheathed in her.

"Do you regret it, Axel Moonrider, Alpha of the Midnight Guardians pack?"

"No.", Axel said right away. "And I will make sure you don't regret it either."

His head dipped for him to kiss the spot where he marked her a minute ago, and Yasmin released a shaky breath.

Axel grinned. That's his mark, and that's his mate, and nothing else mattered.

Axel couldn't wait to see Kai and tell him how he is not the only one who did it! And he was looking forward to taking Yasmin with him and introducing her as the pack Luna. But what he wanted to do the most was…

"Can we do it again?"

Yasmin smiled and pulled him down for a kiss. He took that as a, yes.

---

 

Chapter 482 The Silver Flame fountain (1)

Talia walked through the garden and observed the colors changing as dawn cracked.

Just as Talia feared, sleep didn't come to her. Whenever she closed her eyes, mental images of Damon and Marcy plagued her mind, so she gave up on sleeping and decided to take a walk.

She sat at the edge of a circular basin of a fountain and looked at the still water. In the middle was a sculpture of a woman and a wolf. The wolf was on his hind legs, two creatures leaning on each other while reaching up for something in the sky, and Talia guessed that from there water would flow if the fountain was working.

Talia dipped her fingers in the chilly water and tried to think how much time passed for Damon.

Since Damon passed through the portal, one day for Talia should be about one hour for Damon.

Axel predicted that Damon would need at least one day to reach the Dark Howlers pack, but Talia knew that Damon would reach there in less. He was the fastest and the strongest guy she knew and in his wolf form, he was like a flash. Talia remembered her vision just before she passed out while opening the portal. Damon didn't wander. He was moving in one direction, with purpose. He knew where he was going, straight toward the territory of the Dark Howlers pack.

Talia's heart tightened at the memory when she saw him the last time, in the cave.

She knew that Damon was not himself when he pushed her away, but it still hurt.

Liseli told her not to worry about it because Damon didn't remember her and she shouldn't blame him. But Talia remembered clearly all the gentle words and caresses and promises, and then it was all gone as he pushed her away with disgust like she has some disease.

It made her wonder if he even liked her or if it was just the bond. Talia snorted. How is she supposed to believe in a relationship that was relying only on a bond that was put there by the Moon Goddess?

'Don't go there', Liseli said. 'Sure, the bond was the reason why it started, but then Damon got to know you and he saw that you are kind and generous and fierce and...'

'And he forgot about it, so why does it matter?', Talia interrupted Liseli.

'It matters. Didn't you think of him as a scary brute at first? If someone erased the memories of your time at the Dark Howlers pack, you would be glad that he left.'

Well, Talia agreed with that. But, was she supposed to forgive him for the harsh treatment because he didn't remember her? And what if he ends up cozying up with Marcy? Should Talia overlook that as well? Her insides churned at that thought.

- - -

--- This work is published on the NovelFire platform . Thank you for reading from the original site to support the author! ---

- - -

"Can't sleep?"

Talia turned to see Evanora approaching her.

It was obvious that she couldn't sleep, but Talia didn't want to share her thoughts.

"When will the potion and the spell be ready?", Talia asked.

"By lunchtime, it should be ready, but I recommend that you give us time to test the effectiveness before you leave."

Talia was surprised by this. "Test it? Like… on a person?"

"Mhm…", Evanora hummed and stood by Talia while looking at the unmoving statue of the woman and the wolf.

"You have a person willing to get under the effect of black runes in order to test dispelling it?"

Evanora cocked an eyebrow. "We have a person who made a deal to be helpful."

Talia's stomach tightened when she realized that Evanora was talking about Cassandra.

"How do your deals work?"

"Our magic bounds us to stick to the agreement."

"How?"

"Cassandra won't be able to leave this place until conditions are met."

Talia was alarmed. She didn't care about Cassandra, but what about Axel? The deal was a mate for a mate. Were they planning to keep Axel here until he finds his mate? And then what? And what if Yasmin was not his mate?

"How would that impact Axel?", Talia asked, and Evanora's expression tightened.

"If I knew this would happen, I would make a deal with you."

"Me? Why me?"

Evanora shook her head, refusing to answer. "Don't worry about your brother, Talia. He is the soulmate of my daughter. I would never harm her."

'Holy-moly!', Liseli exclaimed in Talia's head. 'I think they wanted to keep Axel here as a breeding stud.'

'As a what!?'

'Didn't you notice they are lacking males?', Liseli asked. 'But now that Yasmin's future is tied to Axel's, Evanora won't force Axel into fornicating with other witches.'

'Axel would never get intimate with a woman who is not his mate because that would be giving up on his powers.'

'Evanora doesn't know that.', Liseli said.

Talia's expression tightened. 'But what if she does know?' Another level of panic swelled in Talia. 'How would that work if I made the deal? Would they take my mate away?'

Liseli growled. 'He wouldn't touch another woman. Not with the bond, but...'

'But?'

'If the breeding is for creating offspring, they could drug him or cast a spell to think it was you. Or they could collect samples without the act of coupling.'

Talia's insides churned. Was she close to putting Damon in another hell because she was reckless?

'Don't worry about things that didn't happen.', Liseli said. 'Things worked out. Selena is watching over us, Talia.'

Talia cringed. If the Moon Goddess was watching, they wouldn't end up in this mess.

"Is something wrong?", Evanora noticed changes in Talia's expression.

Talia scrambled her brain for a way to answer this without exposing her conversation with Liseli. "I was just thinking about Cassandra. Will she be OK during the test?"

"You are worried about her?", Evanora asked with amusement in her voice. "That woman cursed your mate. He is in a bad condition, and you are probably wondering if that's because you interrupted the spell before it was over. If you didn't intervene, he would be in a much worse state. Maybe dead. Shouldn't you be angry at Cassandra? Eager for revenge?"

Talia shook her head. "That won't get my mate back."

"You are letting her go unpunished?"

Talia took a moment to think about it. Cassandra did wrong, but Talia was so busy with getting Damon back that she didn't think about punishing the Oracle. But then, if not for Cassandra, they wouldn't know about runes and witches, and they would definitely not be here.

The last few days felt like a painful eternity, but there was something good in it, like Axel finding his mate, and that wouldn't happen if Cassandra didn't cooperate.

"I believe that everyone should get a chance for redemption.", Talia said. "What Cassandra did was wrong, but she followed orders. And after that, she was helpful. I won't punish her for what happened. I believe that the Moon Goddess is watching, and Cassandra will get what she deserved. It's not on me to judge her."

---

 

Chapter 483 The Silver Flame fountain (2)

Evanora laughed at Talia's words.

"You are letting Cassandra go unpunished? If your mate ends up in Cassandra's hands again, do you think she will hesitate to use dark magic?" Evanora leaned toward Talia, their noses only inches apart. "By letting her go, someone will get hurt, and it will be your fault."

Talia realized that Evanora was right. Maybe.

"You can't blame me if Cassandra harms someone after this."

"And who is to blame? Your Moon Goddess?"

Talia didn't miss the bitterness in Elanor's tone. "You don't believe in the Moon Goddess?"

Evanora's brows furrowed. "If she is out there, aware of what's going on, then she is a cruel person. Why would I put my hopes in her?" She turned to look at the statues in the middle of the fountain with longing. "We are called the Silver Flame Coven because there was a time when this fountain had flames that were said to be indistinguishable. On the day when the portal closed, the flames died, leaving us here to exist without a purpose, empty on the inside. Just like this fountain."

'Oh, oh!', Liseli exclaimed in Talia's head. 'No wonder the fountain looked familiar. I know what she is talking about!'

'You do?'

'No time to explain. Put your hand in the water, Talia!'

Talia had no idea what this was about, but she listened to Liseli.

Talia saw her hand glowing in silvery light that traveled through the water toward the statues.

Evanora stared in disbelief as statues shimmered like someone doused them in silvery glitter, but the most fantastic was when with a 'POOF!' a white flame emerged from the top of the fountain.

It looked beautiful.

"How did you do that?", Evanora asked. She knew very well how many spells they tried in order to revive the fountain, yet Talia did it like it was not a big deal.

Talia smiled a little, feeling proud that Evanora's high and mighty expression cracked.

"Maybe the Moon Goddess didn't forget you. What if she only tested you to ensure you are worthy?"

Talia spoke with confidence to Evanora, but she was also giving herself a much-needed pep talk.

- - -

--- This work is published on the NovelFire platform . Thank you for reading from the original site to support the author! ---

- - -

The day in the coven started with the commotion when one witch shouted, "THE SILVER FLAME FOUNTAIN IS ALIVE!"

More than a hundred witches swarmed that area to see the fountain with white flames dancing at the top that were visible even in the broad daylight. Ripples of silvery light pulsated rhythmically in the calm water below it.

Liseli told Talia that Selena has a similar fountain in her garden, but Liseli had no idea how that replica ended up here.

Per Talia's request, Evanora didn't reveal that Talia was the one who made it work, but the witches whispered among themselves how the change happened due to one of the three newcomers based on the fact that it happened shortly after Talia, Axel, and Cassandra arrived.

They were all hopeful, believing that this was a sign of good days ahead.

The time dragged, and Talia felt every minute like an hour as she was itchy to leave this place and head after Damon, but this couldn't be rushed.

Evanora explained that the potions and spells were something they were creating with their knowledge and experience, but there was no guarantee they will work, and that was why testing was necessary.

Talia could imagine herself going to the Dark Howlers pack and facing Damon to perform a mystical ritual only for it to fail. Damon would probably throw her in the dungeon with other women who got on his nerves. But then… with him not remembering Talia, he won't know why Lisa, Nora, and the other women were there and he will probably release them. Talia's skin crawled uncomfortably at that thought.

With the goal to distract herself, Talia asked to help with preparations for the feast. Activities in the kitchen were just what she needed. The mood was lively, and it reminded Talia of her time with Dawn and Zina.

Witches would ask Talia about the life on the other side of the portal, and she told them about the Summer Solstice Festival, the amusement park, restaurants, and modern medicine, and she hoped that her voice stayed steady because each of those reminded her of Damon. Talia realized that every part of her life, since she left the Red Moon pack, was marked by Damon's presence, and she was not sure if that was a good thing.

What if she can't dispel the black magic? Will she stay broken forever, stuck in the memories of Damon?

Talia did her best to suppress negative thoughts and to focus on the egg wash she was applying to the dough that was going to be baked into perfect bread rolls. They were cooking with herbs, and it smelled divine. Talia hoped that she can make some of those dishes for Damon, after the dark magic is dispelled and things get back to normal.

Throughout the day, Talia managed to chat with Cornelia and a few more witches. She found out that they were living on their own here and it was only women. Other than wild animals and familiars that witches created contracts with, there were no other creatures.

Cornelia mentioned the time when witches coexisted with werewolves, but then one day they just disappeared. "We had three High Priestesses at that time, and they disagreed on what to do. One wanted to reopen the portal, the second one went to explore our realm with the hope to find passages to other realms, and Evanora stayed here. We never heard about the other two High Priestesses, and we assume that they either found a way out but couldn't return, or something horrible happened.

Unfortunately, Cornelia didn't know more about that topic.

Talia wondered if the disappearance of werewolves was related to the closing of the portal. Did she make a mistake by reopening it? Surely, someone didn't close the portal on a whim. She shook those thoughts away. What was done was done, and if she closes it now (assuming that she knows how), Axel and Yasmin would need to pick a side.

Evanora was obviously the most knowledgeable about the past, but the High Priestess was too touchy, and Talia didn't want to provoke her.

Talia was informed that if all goes well, the potions and spell will be ready by tomorrow morning.

Somehow, the day passed, and the sun started dipping toward the horizon.

Axel and Yasmin didn't come out of Yasmin's room, but the tray with food that was left in front of the door disappeared as a sign they were alive.

Talia was happy for Axel, she truly was, but her heart tightened at the thought of how that was supposed to be her with Damon. They went to the cabin to spend three days being lovey-dovey and after an emotional night, they fell asleep on the grass, and then the nightmare began.

 

Chapter 484 The celebration begins

Talia went to her room with the intention to get ready for the celebration. Just like Axel, she brought with her a backpack with some snacks and a few changes of clothes. They didn't know how long they will spend on the other side of the portal, so they went prepared.

Talia was surprised when two witches entered her room, saying that they came to help her get ready. She was about to go in her jeans and a fresh t-shirt, but the witches said how that was not appropriate for the occasion.

Talia gaped at the two awfully tiny pieces of fabric, and a string. They obviously wanted her to dress as other witches, with cloth hanging loosely from her waist over her private areas and nothing else. Even skimpy sexy lingerie she bought with Maya provided more coverage than this!

Talia scrambled her brain on how to reject this service. "Uhm… I appreciate your care, but I…"

"We feel with our whole bodies", one of the witches said, interrupting Talia's protest. "How will nature and energies touch you if you are covered in so many layers?"

Talia understood that logic, and as a she-wolf, she should be fine going around naked, but still… that's not how she grew up.

After some negotiations, the witches produced another long and narrow piece of fabric that will be tied around Talia's chest to cover her nipples and give her girls a squeeze, so they don't jiggle when she moves.

Talia wondered if Damon would be OK with her attending an event so scarcely dressed. She thought how it was silly that she craved his approval when he was not there, and he didn't even know who she was.

The celebration was held in an open courtyard that was connected to the garden where the Silver Flaming fountain was.

Long tables were arranged with benches on each side, and with more than a dozen of witches bringing out food, the area was set up within minutes.

Everyone cheered and clapped when Axel and Yasmin stepped out, with Axel holding Yasmin close to him, unwilling to put even an inch of distance between them.

The couple wore matching clothes which consisted of a string around the waist and two cloths, one in front and one in the back, just enough to cover private areas. Axel's shoulders were wide and his whole body ripped, and Yasmin walked proudly next to him with her chest sticking out.

Talia admired Yasmin's courage. If that was Talia, she would shrink and try to hide behind Damon.

Both Yasmin and Axel had white flowers in their hair and flower garlands around their necks. They looked festive.

Talia pushed emerging memories of the Summer Solstice festival aside. She didn't want to think about dancing around the bonfire under Damon's watchful gaze, or when he found her in the town square under the clocktower, or when she gave him the garland of flowers after Damon asked her if there was a guy she liked more than she liked him. He said that he will cherish it forever and he asked her to help him preserve it. And then he kissed her. Their first kiss.

This was not the time. Now she needed to focus on Axel and Yasmin, at least for the duration of this event.

As Axel and Yasmin approached the table where Talia was, Talia noticed their skin shining like someone rubbed them with oil. The couple had symbols on their arms, chest, and face written with golden powder, making them sparkle under torches that were lit to illuminate the area, but the brightest were their smiles that reached their eyes.

- - -

--- This work is published on the NovelFire platform . Thank you for reading from the original site to support the author! ---

- - -

Axel's eyes locked with Talia's and his hold on Yasmin tightened. Somehow, his vision tunneled on Talia who was there all alone, without Damon, and his chest tightened at the thought of how he would feel if someone took Yasmin from him. The mental image was unbearable, yet there was Talia, looking at him with a gentle smile, happy for him, like she was not dying on the inside.

He realized that Talia was the true Alpha, able to endure personal pain and do the right thing. Would he be able to hold himself with such grace if that was him standing there? Axel was not sure.

"Hi, Talia…", Axel greeted Talia awkwardly when they reached the elevated table that was for important people. He was feeling guilty for leaving Talia on her own for such a long time when he came with her to protect her and help her get Damon back. "I'm sorry for…"

"Don't.", Talia interrupted him. "I am happy for you. I truly am. There is no better thing in life than a mate, Axel. Cherish her."

Axel gave Talia a small nod and looked at Yasmin. "I will. Let me introduce you." He pulled Yasmin closer to him. "This is Talia, my sister…"

Talia noticed the redness on Yasmin's neck, a sign that Axel's mark was forming there, and Talia hoped that Evanora won't make a fuss about it. Surely, by now she accepted that her daughter found her mate.

Talia remembered that after Kai marked Meg, Meg was unconscious and her whole body was glowing. Meg later told her that she got the ability to break stuff and that it took her weeks to learn how to control it. Yasmin was not glowing or doing anything strange, and Talia wondered if the lack of odd things was because they didn't happen, or maybe because Yasmin could control it. After all, she was a witch. Axel should have his powers awakened also, and Talia wondered if it would be wise to ask about it or if that was a secret. She didn't want to appear too nosy.

After exchanging pleasantries with Talia, Yasmin and Axel turned to Evanora who greeted them with a stiff smile.

Evanora was seated in the center of the main table. Yasmin was on Evanora's left, and next were Axel and Talia. On Evanora's right was Cornelia, followed by two other priestesses that Talia assumed had a higher ranking compared to the others.

The main table stood out because it was elevated compared to the others, and the seven people seated there were facing the courtyard with no one on the opposite side of the table to block the view.

Talia smiled at the sight of Axel who immediately started piling up food on Yasmin's plate, and again, the scene reminded her of Damon, the cheeky Alpha who would feed her, hold her hand, and not miss any opportunity to get closer and sneak a kiss.

The dinner started without speeches or introductions.

Talia's eyes scanned the faces of witches who ate with gusto, occasionally glancing at Yasmin and Axel and giggling, and some looked at them with longing and maybe with a hint of jealousy.

Yasmin and Axel were lost in their bubble, feeding each other and talking in whispers.

Talia didn't see Cassandra, and she didn't want to ask where the Oracle was. After her talk with Evanora, Talia concluded that the less she knew about Cassandra, the better it will be because if she finds out that the woman was in danger, Talia won't be able to sit still and that would cause problems.

She needed to focus on what was important: spells, potions, Damon, but first… she needed to force this delicious food down her throat or risk collapsing from hunger.

---

Chapter 485 The blessed union

The last streaks of sunlight disappeared under the oncoming darkness, and the Silver Flame fountain glowed like a beacon.

At a certain point, Evanora stood up. "It is time for the ceremony. Let us gather next to the fire." Her voice was not loud, yet every witch in attendance left food and chatter, and moved toward the fountain.

Seeing that everyone was going there, Talia also followed.

Yasmin and Axel stood in front of the fountain and held hands, and Evanora and Cornelia were with them. All witches circled the area while leaving space for the four people.

"Come here…", Evanora gestured to Talia to stand next to Axel.

With Talia in place and Cornelia next to Yasmin, Evanora stood in the middle and turned to speak to the witches gathered.

"Yasmin has been blessed with a soulmate. I am happy that her man is determined to take good care of her and won't leave her behind..."

Talia glanced at Axel questionably, and his confident expression told her that he had this discussion with Evanora already. Talia regretted not having the mind-link because she would ask him about the details, but she had a feeling that it went well.

Evanora spoke about two people living in harmony with nature, and then she turned to face the fountain.

"Bless your children and guide them through life…", Evanora spoke solemnly, and witches burst into the murmurs as the fountain's flames danced more wildly.

Ripples of silvery light increased their pace noticeably as they pulsated from the middle of the fountain toward the edge, and the light reflected on the statue of the woman and the wolf, making it appear like they came alive.

"Step inside.", Evanora instructed Yasmin and Axel, and Axel scooped Yasmin into his arms and walked over the edge to step into the water.

Yasmin smiled dreamily as she slid down Axel's body to stand next to him, the delicious sparks that prickled her skin wherever they touched made her giddy.

Yasmin loved how strong Axel was. They made love for hours and he did most of the work, yet he still carried her like she weighed nothing. She was proud that such a man was hers.

Axel gazed into Yasmin's eyes, with his brain still high on the love-struck sensation, unsure if this was really happening, but he was confident that he didn't want to snap out of this daze because he was never so happy.

Evanora continued murmuring chants in an ancient language, and witches burst into excited murmurs when ripples in the water started breaking and moving toward Axel and Yasmin to converge and reassemble around the couple.

It was magical.

The silvery light reflected on Axel and Yasmin, climbing up their skin, and making them glow. Literally.

The two of them held each other and looked like ethereal statues.

"The heavens accept your union.", Evanora said with a hint of sadness in her voice. "I hope your lives are blessed and full of happiness."

Axel and Yasmin smiled at each other and then Axel leaned while Yasmin got on her toes, and their lips met into a long and sensual kiss that made witches giggle and sigh.

"The ceremony is over!", Evanora exclaimed at the witches. "You can return to your tables and resume feast until morning."

The witches started dispersing in a good mood, chattering excitedly about the event they just witnessed.

Axel and Yasmin stepped out of the fountain, their skin still shimmering in silvery light.

Cornelia and Talia were still there, and Evanora turned to Axel and Yasmin. "I have something to say. I hope you cherish what you have and always put each other first." Evanora turned to Axel. "As my gift to you, I announce that our deal is completed. A mate for a mate. Take care of my daughter, Axel."

Axel looked at Evanora's extended hand, and he reached for a handshake. The moment their palms touched, white light burst upon contact, and Axel felt like some shackles that were around him disappeared.

- - -

--- This work is published on the NovelFire platform . Thank you for reading from the original site to support the author! ---

- - -

"You made a deal with my mother?", Yasmin asked under her breath. She obviously didn't know about that. "A mate for a mate?"

Axel looked at Yasmin guiltily, but she was not looking at him anymore even though her hold on him tightened.

"What were you thinking?", Yasmin asked Evanora. "He is my soulmate. What would happen if I didn't come to your office last night, if we didn't meet in time, if we met too late…?"

"What's done is done.", Evanora snapped.

"No, mother.", Yasmin said, her voice breaking into sobs. "Even if Axel is not my mate, he would be someone else's. You can't make such deals."

Evanora narrowed her eyes at Yasmin. "That's what we do, Yasmin. We are witches. We make deals. The same rules apply to everyone. If you only take without paying the price, you will find yourself on a path filled with darkness. Besides, it's not like I forced him, he offered himself."

Yasmin turned to look at Axel. "You offered yourself?"

Axel really didn't know what was the big deal. "My sister is here because her mate is under the effect of black runes. I owe her a lot and I thought that paying in her place was the right thing to do." That was the short version.

Since they met, Axel and Yasmin were mostly engaged in carnal activities, and they didn't really talk. Now that he thought about this, Axel realized that he should tell her about his family situation, about the pack, and… so many other things.

"Don't blame him.", Talia said to Yasmin. "Axel is a good man, always ready to help, even if that might harm him. I hope you will be by his side from now on to stop him from doing reckless things."

Yasmin relaxed a bit at Talia's words, and she took Axel's hand, tugging him away with, "We need to talk." Talia wondered if Axel was in trouble, but then she saw him scooping Yasmin into his arms who giggled while wrapping her arms around his neck. He was walking away from the party, and toward the area where rooms were. Yup, they won't be talking much.

"Thank you for freeing Axel from the deal.", Talia said to Evanora who was still there with Cornelia by her side. "I don't know about Axel, but I plan to leave as soon as the potion and spells are done."

"That will be after breakfast.", Evanora said. "You will need to learn the spells."

"I will do it tonight." Talia had no intention to sleep.

"Yasmin expressed her desire to follow Axel through the portal.", Evanora said. "I believe they will join you." She turned to look at the fountain. "By bringing the flames back, you brought life to this coven. Everyone is hopeful. We didn't have this atmosphere in a long time. You also opened the portal, pulling us out of isolation. As a thank you, I will grant you a wish."

Talia blinked when she realized that Evanora was waiting for her to speak up about that wish.

Chapter 486 Back at the portal [Bonus chapter]

Talia wondered what to ask for.

Can she ask for Damon to be freed from the effect of black runes? No. If there was a shortcut, Evanora wouldn't go through the trouble of creating potions and spells. Or maybe she would, just to make it seem more difficult and to tangle Talia in that sketchy deal.

How about for Marcy to go back home? Or for Alpha Edward to give up on coveting what Damon has?

Talia realized that she couldn't ask for too much, but she also didn't want to ask for something small either. She should be careful with what words she uses because it needed to be something Evanora will fulfill without games, and it should be something that Talia needed. With that, she got an idea.

"A moving spell.", Talia said. "I need a way to quickly move within the same realm. Once is enough." As soon as she exits the portal into the human realm, she would teleport to the territory of the Dark Howlers pack.

Evanora frowned. "Isn't your wish too simple? You can ask for anything."

"This is what I want. Or is this too much in exchange for bringing life back to your Coven?"

Evanora's frown deepened at Talia's words and it took her a few long seconds to respond. "The teleportation spell can't be given. It is something we practice for years. Ask for something else."

Talia was confused. Was the movement spell too much or too less? It seemed that this was just another Evanora's scheme to get Talia tangled into a sketchy deal.

Talia was about to say how she doesn't want anything when Cornelia spoke, "I can go with her."

Evanora turned to glare at Cornelia who quickly explained, "I will help Talia move wherever she needs, and at the same time, I will ensure that Yasmin is doing well, and they don't close the portal."

Talia had a feeling that Cornelia was eager to go and explore, and maybe meet her soulmate. Talia saw Cornelia looking at Yasmin and Axel with longing, so the witch definitely had an ulterior motive. But Talia liked Cornelia who was friendly and chatty, so she decided to support the idea.

"Cornelia can be the pioneer in exploring other realms and she can tell you about the differences and what to expect when someone else from your coven decides to pass through the portal."

"Can you guarantee Cornelia's safety, Alpha Talia?", Evanora asked stiffly.

Talia paused at the way Evanora addressed her.

Evanora smiled smugly. "Did you think I won't figure out that you are the real Alpha and not your brother? With your power, he can be an Alpha only if you allow it to happen."

Talia didn't want to explain how she didn't see herself as an Alpha. It was not important.

"Yes. I will guarantee Cornelia's safety.", Talia agreed solemnly. "But let me warn you, in the realm where Axel and Yasmin are going, the time flows in about the same way as here. In the realm that's my destination, time flows thirty times slower than here. Every day there will be thirty here, so don't be surprised if it takes a few months for Cornelia to return with news."

Evanora nodded at this. "That's acceptable." They were alone for centuries. A few months was nothing. "What about your wish? Or are you forfeiting this chance?"

"Does it come with a time limit?", Talia asked back.

Evanora's eyebrows shot up in surprise when she understood, "You want to keep your wish for later?"

"Yes.", Talia confirmed.

"Alright. When you think of something, let me know."

Talia exhaled in relief. She had a hunch that Evanora's intention was to trap her, but Talia didn't want anything other than to get Damon back. Talia was glad to have this wish from Evanora, but she truly hoped she will never use it. Actually, she was hoping for witches to owe her, and that gave her another idea.

"Do you have other portals in your realm?", Talia asked, catching Evanora by surprise. From the stories she overheard in the kitchen, Talia understood that the biggest issue for witches was isolation. There were no other people besides them.

Talia explained to Evanora and Cornelia how in the territory of the Midnight Guardians pack there are several portals, but only one was open and now there were two. "If you have more portals, I can try opening them. Cassandra has knowledge of portals, so you might want to talk to her also."

"We will think about it.", Evanora responded cryptically, but Talia guessed that Evanora was interested.

- - -

--- This work is published on the NovelFire platform . Thank you for reading from the original site to support the author! ---

- - -

With Talia memorizing mysterious chants, the night passed quickly.

Axel and Yasmin joined for breakfast that was organized in the same courtyard where the last night's party was.

After they finished their meal, a lot of women gathered to escort the group of four back to the portal.

Talia didn't see Cassandra, but she knew that the Oracle was staying with the witches. She didn't want to be bothered with Cassandra's fate. They already had so many things to juggle, and Cassandra was the one who initiated the deal with the witches, and she will need to honor it, for better or for worse. But Cassandra made the deal with Cornelia who was leaving, so Talia was not sure how that will work. Can the deal be transferred? She decided to ask about it later.

The mood was lively as the people moved through the sparse forest. Witches surrounded Talia and were full of questions about what was on the other side of the portal.

Talia was nervous and really not in the mood for chatter, but she didn't want to offend the witches.

Talia wanted to ask why they were not using a teleportation spell to reach the portal, but then she saw Evanora's conflicting gaze glued to Yasmin's back, and she understood that this was Evanora's way of prolonging her time with her daughter.

Eventually, they reached a U-shaped rock formation where the portal was.

"We will visit you soon.", Axel said to Evanora. "Until then, please, don't come through the portal unless it's absolutely necessary. I will station guards on my side, to ensure no one trespasses and I suggest you do the same."

Evanora's brows came together in a frown. "Do you think your people will be hostile?"

Axel shook his head. "Hostile, no. Ignorant, yes. I want to tell my pack about you and this realm. When we come next time, I will bring a few more people who have my trust with the goal to discuss rules or regulations for using the portal going forward. There is a reason why we keep our location a secret from outsiders. You have a lot of unclaimed land here and a lot of beautiful women with mysterious powers. Each of those is tempting and can muddle someone's reasoning. I'm not saying that my people are vile, but I want to make sure things run smoothly and we don't offend each other just because of initial excitement. Over time, if things run smoothly, we can revisit this topic."

Evanora agreed. It made sense. She appreciated that Axel was thinking about those things. Evanora was consumed by the fact that Yasmin was leaving and her anxiousness about the possibility of the portal closing and separating them forever, that she didn't think about the safety of her coven.

Axel turned toward the portal and he imagined how Kai and Tyler will react when they see Yasmin sticking to him.

He will show her proudly and shout, 'THIS IS MY MATE! YOUR LUNA!'

Axel's dreamy smile faded after a second when he realized that Yasmin's outfit was technically non-existent.

They were surrounded by women, with him being the only male, so he didn't think much about it, but it will be different on the other side of that portal. He could clearly see in his mind numerous guys staring at Yasmin with lecherous gazes and drooling.

Well, that's not happening!

Anger rippled through Axel, making his Alpha aura swell and all witches looked at him warily while taking a step back on an instinct.

 

Chapter 487 The connection between the Alpha and the pack

Without explaining the unexpected change in his mood, Axel reached into his backpack and pulled out a t-shirt.

"What…?", Yasmin squeaked in confusion when soft cotton fabric went over her head.

"No one gets to see you like that.", Axel said with all the seriousness in the world. "You are mine."

Yasmin gaped at Axel, wondering if an evil spirit possessed him. Why did he suddenly turn hostile?

Talia was happy to see that Axel was so possessive. It meant that he truly cared about Yasmin.

Unfortunately for Axel, Yasmin's confused expression was a giveaway that the poor girl didn't see Axel's behavior as care. Talia understood Yasmin completely because before she knew that Damon was her mate, she thought of him as overbearing, unreasonable, and mentally unstable.

Talia touched Yasmin's shoulder to get her attention. "Axel is protective of you. On the other side of the portal we dress differently, and we cover certain parts of our body." Talia gestured to her t-shirt and jeans.

"Axel, you mean well, but keep in mind that Yasmin doesn't know what's on the other side of the portal. Let me talk to her, woman-to-woman."

Axel grunted in response, and he approved when Talia got light blue shorts from her backpack.

Talia handed the shorts to Yasmin. "Put these on." When Yasmin didn't move, Talia explained, "You mated with Axel so you should know that some parts of your body are more sensitive than the others."

Yasmin's cheeks turned pink, and she nodded at Talia's words.

"These…", Talia gestured to her chest and her crotch area. "Are only for your mate to see and touch. Think of this as Axel protecting you."

Yasmin didn't get it. "Protecting me?"

Talia thought about how to explain this.

"How would you feel if", Talia pointed at one random witch from the group that followed them there, "she sticks close to Axel, wants to touch him, and…" Talia stopped talking when Yasmin frowned. "I see you got the idea. Axel is an Alpha, and his instincts are to protect you from any man touching you or looking at you in the wrong way. Please, wear this, or any man stealing glances at your body will feel Axel's wrath."

With this, Yasmin accepted the shorts and shimmied into them.

After struggling with the buttons, Yasmin observed her outfit. Axel's t-shirt was oversized for her, and it hung on her like a loose mini dress that covered Talia's shorts completely. She had no idea what to think of this getup.

Yasmin glanced at Axel. "Is this fine?"

Axel's lips lifted into a half-smile. "Perfect. Just like you." Actually, he would give her longer pants to cover those gorgeous legs, but he knew that even this was too much for her, so he let it slide.

Yasmin looked at Axel dreamily. "Would you punish any man who looks at me in the wrong way?"

"Yes.", Axel said without missing a beat. "You are mine." His arm snaked around her waist, and he pulled her to stick to him completely.

Talia turned to look at Cornelia who was also covered only with two skimpy fabrics below her waist level. "Let me get you something to wear."

Cornelia cocked an eyebrow. "Why? I don't have a mate. Or will me going like this offend someone?"

Talia blinked. "No. No one will be offended." Actually, people will be glad to see such a fantastic body on display. Talia knew that witches are something like nudists, not seeing any need to cover up, but the outside was different. On the other hand, werewolves are used to nudity, and they will teleport to the Dark Howlers pack, so humans won't see her… "You can go like that if you want."

"As long as no one is offended, I will go like this." Cornelia didn't want to cover up if not necessary.

With this, they were ready to go.

Elanor gave Yasmin a hug and a last piece of advice, "Make sure to stay close to Axel. Don't get separated in the portal."

"Why?", Talia asked and then her eyes widened when she thought of something scary, "Does the portal have different exit points?"

"No.", Elanor responded. "The portal will take you to the same place, but the difference might be in when."

Talia was not sure if she heard this right. "Can you explain that?"

"The portal connects two places while twisting the time it takes to cross that distance. The entry and exit points are fixed, but the time fluctuates. You step into the portal two seconds apart and could come out of it two hours apart."

Talia gaped at Evanora and then turned to Axel robotically.

"Is this true?", she asked.

Axel's brows came together while thinking about his previous experiences. He either didn't pay attention, or was very close to his companions, but this last time they passed to come here... "Cassandra went first, and I carried you through the portal less than a minute later. Cassandra was already standing there", he gestured toward the area where U-shaped rock formation opens toward the meadow. "She looked impatient, but it didn't cross my mind that maybe she was there for a long time."

"Just go closely together and it will be fine.", Evanora said. "To make sure you don't get separated more than necessary, you can hold hands."

Talia's stomach dropped. This was not about them separating, but it was about the duration of the travel. How come she didn't think about it?

Axel told her that journey through the portal is just a few seconds long, but what if it's hours, or days, or… A sense of urgency gripped Talia's heart. She thought that for Damon only two-three hours passed since he went through the portal, but what if it was more?

She was grateful that Cornelia was tagging along because the teleportation magic will definitely come in handy.

- - -

--- This work is published on the NovelFire platform . Thank you for reading from the original site to support the author! ---

- - -

The moment all four of them exited the portal, Axel gave coordinates to Yasmin and Cornelia who started working on a teleportation spell that will take them straight into the main house of the Midnight Guardians pack.

Axel turned to look at Talia who stood dazed on the spot.

"Are you alright?", Axel asked.

Talia put her hand over her chest. "Do you feel that?" Her whole body was buzzing with energy like someone charged her up.

Axel smiled proudly. "What you feel are hopes and support of our pack members. You are an Alpha with a pack now, and your pack will amplify your strength and abilities. The effect is the most potent when we are in our territory. It's addictive. That is why most Alphas stay within the boundaries of their territory while craving to expand it."

"Is that why Damon is the strongest Alpha?"

"There is genetics and training, but yes, his pack members believe in him and follow him willingly and that adds to his strength."

Talia remembered how at the Alpha ceremony, a connection opened between her and the Midnight Guardians pack members, but she didn't feel the energies like now.

Chapter 488 Back at the Midnight Guardians pack

Seeing that Yasmin and Cornelia were busy drawing a diagram on a small clearing, Talia asked Axel in a whisper, "About your power… did you get it?"

"I felt it awakening, but I don't know what it is yet.", Axel responded with a sour expression. "Maybe I used it, but I'm not aware of it. Not everyone can do flashy things that glow or explode." He heard stories of how some pack members took months until they figured out what their ability was.

Talia remembered what Axel told her about some useless abilities. "Maybe you can attach and detach your limbs at will."

Axel grimaced. "You are having fun with this, aren't you?"

"A little bit.", Talia admitted.

Axel snorted, but he was not angry. He liked that Talia had this cheeky side and he hoped to see more of it. "I will mind link Kai, Meg, and Tyler to meet us in the study. And I also want to set up rotations of guards around this place…" His eyes lost focus and Talia knew that he was communicating through the mind-link.

After a few chants, Talia, Axel, Yasmin, and Cornelia found themselves in the study of the main building in the Midnight Guardians pack.

Cornelia and Yasmin were curious about everything, and Axel told them to feel free to look around until Tyler, Kai, and Meg arrive.

"Do you want to call home?", Axel asked Talia.

Talia paused. With all the mess happening, she forgot about the possibility of a phone call. Whom should she call? Maya and Caden? What would she say? Would it make any difference?

"No.", Talia said.

"Are you sure?"

Talia confirmed. "With Cornelia's help, I will be there before Damon." She didn't want to waste time explaining things over the phone.

"Do you have a map of the human realm?", Talia asked Axel. "I need you to point at the location of the Dark Howlers pack, and where you came to pick us up when I called."

Axel frowned at this second piece of information. "You are not going to the packhouse?"

"No. Damon will be there and if I appear, it will only cause a commotion."

"Didn't you say that you will reach there before him?", Axel asked.

"I hope I will get there before him, but if he is already there, I need to assess the situation and approach him carefully. I trust his Betas and several other people in the packhouse, however, if Damon catches me talking to them before he remembers me, he might isolate them, and that will backfire."

Talia had two things, a spell that will remove black runes, but that can be used on the night of the full moon, which Talia hoped was still a few days away, yet not too far away. Until then, she can suppress the effect of black runes with a potion, but Talia was confident that Damon wouldn't take the potion willingly. She needed a plan.

"What do you think Damon will do when he sees you?", Axel asked.

Talia pressed her lips into a line at the memory of Damon pushing her away with disgust obvious on his face. "I'm not sure. In the best case, he will kick me out. And in the worst-case… a dungeon?" Or maybe he just snaps her neck.

"Why don't you go as the Alpha of the Midnight Guardians pack?", Axel suggested. "He won't dare to be hostile."

Talia rejected that idea. "Damon won't shrink in front of authority. He suspected that I did something devious to him, if I show up there as an Alpha, he might see that as a declaration of war. In case things go wrong, I don't want to implicate this pack."

And she didn't want people to know that she was the official Alpha of the Midnight Guardians Pack. Now that Axel found Yasmin, Talia's intention was to make Axel the only Alpha, but with all the things going on, she decided to postpone that talk with Axel for later.

Axel didn't like that Talia was planning to go there as a mate Damon forgot about, but he understood Talia's intention. He would also do everything in his power to keep the pack out of that mess.

If Damon loses his temper, he might imprison Talia and start a war without giving her a chance to fix things. This mental image made Axel's insides churn, but he pushed the discomfort away with the thought that Talia was stronger than he was, and it was obvious that she had a plan.

Axel got a large map that was rolled and standing upright in a corner. "What are we looking for here?"

"Shaman's house." With Mindy and Gideon onboard, Talia can come into the packhouse and stay there without being noticed and take it from there. "He lives in the middle of a forest. However, on our way to the cabin, we passed the intersection that leads there, so if you show me Darkbourne and where you picked me up with your father, I will be able to estimate the location of his home."

"Give me a few hours to introduce Yasmin, and then…"

"No.", Talia interrupted Axel. "I can't wait for that long, and you should stay here."

Axel didn't approve. "You will need help. This is beyond just removing a spell from Damon. The Red Moon pack won't accept this without a fight."

Talia agreed with this, but... "The fight won't come for at least a few days, and that will give you and Yasmin a few months here. You won't leave Yasmin here, and if she bumps into humans right away, it might be too much. Let me handle Damon and I promise to call you if there is trouble with other packs."

Talia saw Axel frowning, and she continued before he could object again, "I'm sure you felt the unease of our people from the moment we stepped into this territory. They believe in us, however, they are also anxious because they lost their Alphas and we left on the same day. Be here and show them that you have your Luna and that they have strong leaders. Tell them about witches and introduce Yasmin to this realm. Besides that, there is also the task of watching over previous Alphas and making sure they don't stir trouble, and you should come up with rules about crossing the portal for witches. I know you wanted us to do this together, and I promise to join you as soon as Damon is free from the effects of black runes. Until then, I know that Meg and Yasmin will get along great."

With every next argument, Axel's motivation to go with Talia deflated. He knew she was right. Even his parents divided work into internal and external, and he thought how that was exactly what he and Talia were doing now.

The noisy trio entered the study together, and they were all delighted to see Talia and Axel in one piece. Meg wanted to ask where did they lose Cassandra and who the two new faces were (one woman almost naked!), but then Axel dropped a bomb how Yasmin is his fated mate, and everyone forgot about the poor Oracle.

Tyler was trying mightily not to stare at Cornelia's exposed breasts, but it was hard.

Talia introduced Cornelia, "In their realm, they have only witches, all females. They believe that clothing blocks their connection with nature, so they are scarcely dressed..."

Tyler swallowed hard. Other than scarcely dressed women, he didn't hear anything else. "When are we going to visit there?"

Talia shook her head at the Gamma. "Axel will tell you more. Cornelia, I need you to take us to the portal that leads to the human realm. Once we pass through it, I will give you another destination."

"You are leaving already?", Meg asked with disapproval obvious in her voice.

"With Damon out there, I can't stay. I will be back as soon as I can..." With Damon. Hopefully.

Meg and Kai wanted to join, but Talia refused them with a promise that she will call if she is in a pinch. She was grateful to see Axel, Yasmin, Kai, Meg, and Tyler eager to help. And Cornelia was there also.

The only one missing to make this scene heartwarming was Damon, and she was determined to get him back.

 

Chapter 489 Brawl in Gideon's garden

~ The Dark Howlers pack ~

Talia looked around while trying to figure out where Cornelia teleported them. She got her phone and after powering it on, Talia's face lit up when she saw the signal.

"Alright!", Talia exclaimed excitedly. "We are in the human realm."

"Did you think we will end up somewhere else?", Cornelia asked dryly.

Talia smiled awkwardly and opened the app for maps. "The Shaman's place is just a bit further this way."

Talia hoped that Gideon and Mindy were home and that they were not rolling in the sheets. Interrupting them can't be good.

She remembered that Axel told her how the energy buzz from the Midnight Guardians pack will diminish when she crosses the portal, and she paid attention to that energy that bubbled somewhere in the depth of her chest. It was a bit fainter, and while in the realm of witches, Talia assumed it was just her anxiousness acting out, but now that she knew what to look for, she could definitely feel it… the Midnight Guardians were with her. Somehow, it made her feel less alone.

'Let me know when you want to open the mind-link.', Liseli spoke in Talia's head.

'Will it work through the portal?', Talia asked.

'Probably not. But you will sense when someone from the pack is nearby.'

Talia thought how that's a double-edged sword. 'Won't they be able to sense me in return?'

'Pack members don't hide from each other. And don't forget that you are the Alpha. With a little practice, you can conceal your presence while sensing others.'

Talia liked this, but… 'Let's leave that practice for later. I have too much on my hands now.'

Axel told Talia that as the time passes and she gets in tune with the connection to their pack, she will be able to identify each member and their emotional state. She found that intriguing because Damon never mentioned anything like it. Talia knew that Damon was attached to the pack, but she thought how that connection was sentimental or maybe it was a sense of duty, and nothing else.

Talia felt like the members of the Midnight Guardians pack were her family, and she had the urge to protect them and make them happy, and now she understood that Damon feels the same about the Dark Howlers pack.

'While on the topic of sensing...', Liseli spoke in a teasing tone. 'Instead of using GPS and maps on your phone, you could have just sensed your surroundings how Axel taught you.'

Talia realized that Liseli was right, but she was too embarrassed to admit it. 'Maybe next time.'

"It's very fragrant.", Cornelia commented while taking deep breaths.

"Yes. Shaman has a garden.", Talia said. "His house is this way."

Seeing that Talia was moving away from the source of the scent, Cornelia asked, "Do you mind if I check the garden first?"

Talia wanted to say that they should stick together, but then she remembered that Gideon's garden is completely open, and just in case those two were rolling in the sheets, Talia could discretely inform them that they have guests.

Besides, Cornelia was a grown witch. If anyone causes her trouble, she can turn him into a toad or something like that.

"Feel free to.", Talia said. "I will check if they are at home."

- - -

--- This work is published on the NovelFire platform . Thank you for reading from the original site to support the author! ---

- - -

Talia knocked on the half-open door. "Anybody home?"

"Yes, yes!", Mindy called from the kitchen and turned to see who was standing at the door.

"Lia! What brings you here?"

Mindy wore a loose shirt with half of the buttons undone. It was obviously Gideon's shirt and Mindy didn't bother with buttoning it up.

"It's a long story. Where is Gideon? I need your help."

Mindy was now in front of Talia, and she gave her a hug before starting a rain of questions.

"Why are you so serious? Where is Damon? Did something happen?"

"Gideon, Mindy.", Talia reminded her friend.

"He is outside…"

…

Gideon was squatting and tending to his garden, busy with preventing mint bush from invading thyme.

He loves mint and uses it in many concoctions he makes, but it spreads at an alarming rate. At least once a week Gideon would go and remove branches that went down to take roots and expand.

Gideon heard soft steps only when they were close, and he didn't bother to see who it was.

"Did you come to check on me, princess? Or is the lunch done?"

Mindy said that it was her turn to cook and that she will call him when it was ready, so he used this breather to tend to the garden.

After two seconds of silence, Gideon realized that something was off, and he turned to see who was behind him.

A chocolate-colored beauty stood there and observed him with curiosity, but he had difficulty maintaining eye contact because she was nearly naked.

He cursed under his breath. With his head stuck in the mint bush, he didn't pick up her scent, and he didn't hear her until she was too close. What if she was hostile?

He calmed down a bit when he didn't sense a wolf in her, and he concluded that she was human. Obviously unarmed, and that made her harmless.

Cornelia glanced around. "This is a nice garden. Camassia could use more water, and you should consider replanting Bleeding Heart, so it gets partial shade. She doesn't like full sun."

Gideon realized that the woman was knowledgeable about plants. He was considering replanting the Bleeding Heart, but he had a feeling that she was not here to discuss gardening.

Gideon cleared his throat and stood up to stand in slow motion. "Can I help you?"

"Are you Gideon, the Shaman?", she asked.

"Yes. And you are?"

"Cornelia, the Priestess."

Gideon's eyes darted over her almost-naked form. He never heard of priestesses going around exposed like that. "What religion, if I may ask?"

Cornelia stifled a laugh, making her two peaks jiggle in a way that can't be ignored. "Religion?" She was about to say her next word, but a ferocious growl came from the side.

"No! Mindy!"

Talia's shout was too late because Mindy already tackled Cornelia and the two tumbled until they stopped in a patch of poppies with Mindy on top of Cornelia.

"Stay away from my mate!", Mindy growled and raised her hand to claw at Cornelia, but her movement was blocked when Gideon grabbed her wrist.

"Why are you defending this vixen?", Mindy struggled against Gideon's hold who was now pulling her away from Cornelia. "Is she your lover?"

"She is human and seems lost.", Gideon said in a low voice, hoping that Cornelia won't hear him.

"Who cares!?", Mindy was livid. "If you see a half-naked guy approaching me like that, would you be fine with it just because he is human!?"

Gideon looked at Mindy helplessly. She had a point, but it's not like he was about to do anything to Cornelia. He was also caught by surprise, alright? And the fact that Mindy was still struggling to fight Cornelia turned him on. His pumpkin-infused princess was fierce!

Talia went to Cornelia. "I'm sorry for this. If I knew…"

"It's OK.", Cornelia said while pushing herself into a seated position. "She just caught me by surprise. That's all. You warned me that people might act strangely when they see me, but I never assumed they will attack me outright. You should have told me that your females are savage."

"Who is savage!? You bitch!"

Cornelia shot a glare at Mindy who was heaving from anger and ready to throw her next insult.

With a wave of Cornelia's finger, silvery light shot into Mindy's mouth.

Mindy panicked. Her mouth was opening and closing, but no sounds were heard.

Gideon cupped Mindy's cheeks and forced her to look at him. "Calm down. Tell me what's going on."

"She can't.", Cornelia spat. She stood up and looked at Mindy smugly. "I am a witch, not a bitch."

Talia pinched the roof of her nose. This didn't start well.

---

 

Chapter 490 One day less than expected

"At least she didn't turn you into a toad.", Talia said to Mindy who was pouting on the side.

After some convincing, Cornelia removed the mum spell, allowing Mindy to talk, and Cornelia accepted to wear Talia's t-shirt after hearing why Mindy attacked her with, "I thought you said that males are possessive."

"It goes both ways, Priestess Cornelia.", Gideon said.

After Gideon found out that Cornelia is a Priestess among witches, Gideon had to act with respect. Actually, he was super curious to find out everything about Cornelia and the Coven from where she was coming, but he knew that would only piss off Mindy, so he kept those questions for later.

Gideon made tea for everyone and gestured that they sit at the dining table. Mindy was unwilling to sit with Cornelia, but she also didn't want to let the witch close to Gideon. In a show of ownership, Mindy sat on Gideon's lap and leaned on Gideon while glaring in silent warnings at Cornelia.

Cornelia didn't like Mindy's attitude which reminded her of a child who was pouting.

Talia couldn't think in such a stiff atmosphere. She needed her allies working together and not going at each other's throats.

"Cornelia, Mindy attacked you because she saw you as being too friendly with her mate. Their mate bond is fresh, and they are still sensitive about others approaching them.", Talia said, and she turned to Mindy. "Mindy, Cornelia is a witch. Where she comes from, they don't cover their bodies because they want to feel the energies of nature without the obstruction of clothing. Her intention was not to seduce Gideon."

Talia's eyes were moving from Mindy to Cornelia as she continued, "Can the two of you accept that what happened was a misunderstanding and we can move on without me fearing you will start a fight?"

"There will be no fighting.", Cornelia said. "If I feel any malicious intent, I will seal much more than her voice."

Mindy glared at Cornelia. "Sure, no fighting. As long as she stays away from my mate and doesn't cast any spells on me again or on my mate. He is mine."

Gideon's chest swelled when he saw how possessive Mindy was. He approved, and the way Mindy's cheeks flushed when he squeezed her hip told him that she got the message. He will reward her for this, later.

"I assume you are here with Priestess Cornelia for a reason.", Gideon said to Talia.

"Yes. Damon and I went through marking and…"

"Where is your mark?", Mindy interrupted Talia whose neck was obviously clean.

Talia decided to omit non-important parts. "I marked him."

Mindy gaped at Talia, and she turned to look at Gideon who didn't seem to be surprised. "You knew about this?"

"I had a feeling that Talia's wolf is more powerful than Damon's.", Gideon said and cocked an eyebrow at Talia. "But you are stronger than the last time we met. Much stronger."

Talia really didn't want to go into details. "Can we focus on why we are here?"

"Please, do.", Mindy said and motioned with her fingers like she was zipping her mouth closed. She will press Talia for more information later.

"I marked Damon, and after that, he was not waking up in the morning, and he had a fever, and I panicked. Axel told me about an incident in their pack when something went wrong during marking, so I called him. I thought he will give me advice on what to do, but he was nearby and came in person. That's how Damon and I ended up in the Midnight Guardians pack. Unfortunately, Alpha Sophia and Alpha Isaac thought that Damon was getting too powerful, and their Oracle used dark magic to suppress his power. Axel, Kai, Meg, and Tyler helped me get Damon out of there, but not before he was affected.", Talia said in one breath. She practiced this trimmed-down version of the story and she feared that if they interrupt her, she will mess it up.

Talia took a deep breath and said, "When Damon woke up, he seemed fine except for the fact that he couldn't remember me and he left."

Mindy and Gideon stared at Talia. She just said how two Alphas acted with malicious intent against their Alpha. That's war. And then she said how Damon had memory loss!

"Where is Alpha Damon now? Can he remember you?", Mindy asked.

"I believe he is on his way here. As for remembering me... No. That's why Cornelia is here with me. She will help me dispel the dark magic, but the ritual can be performed on the night of the full moon. Until then, I have a potion that will suppress the effect of the dark magic, but I need your help to alert others and trick Damon to take the potion. Can you get me into the packhouse? I'm sure that Maya will help."

"What about Alpha Sophia and Alpha Isaac?", Gideon asked grimly. He couldn't believe that they made a hostile move against Damon and allowed him to leave. As Alphas, the duo definitely knew that their actions will start a war.

"They are not important.", Talia said. "Axel is there handling the situation. But we need to help Damon. When is the full moon?"

"Two days.", Mindy responded.

Talia did mental calculations and her eyes widened. That was one day less than she thought she had!

"Is Damon back already?", Talia asked.

"We don't have insight into what's going on in the packhouse.", Gideon said.

"Screw the protocol!", Mindy squeezed through her teeth, redirecting her previous anger from Cornelia toward Damon. "Let's go there! We will beat up Damon until he remembers what's important. How can he forget his mate? And when we are done with him, we will skin alive those shitty Alphas who made Talia suffer like this!"

Talia was glad that Mindy was so fired up, and she expected this from her firecracker friend, but… "Acting rashly won't help. We need to get into the packhouse without alerting Damon that something is wrong."

"That's easy.", Mindy said impatiently. "In two days is the pack run. We will ask for rooms in the packhouse with an explanation that it will be more convenient to get things ready for the ceremony when we are there."

Talia liked this idea. She turned to Gideon. "You can mind-link Maya about this. Tell her that I'm back, but not to tell anyone about it, and… ask if Damon is already there. Also, if any of the guests are still present."

Gideon's eyes lost focus, and Mindy asked Talia, "What will you do when you reach the packhouse?"

"I want to know who all is there and who can help us."

Gideon's attention was back on Talia, "Maya is preparing two rooms. One for me and Mindy and the second one for my cousin.", Gideon said, and glanced at Mindy to gauge her reaction. "Maya asked who Cornelia is and I couldn't exactly say that she is a witch."

---