Rising in the Shadows - 18. Chapter 18: Final Fulfillment

Vincent was jostled awake. What in Dinbe’s name was that? He craned his neck and saw Mason squirming. Prepared to rise and assist his mate, Vincent halted as the larger man sighed and resumed his peaceful slumber. Rolling his eyes, he dipped into the shadows to leave the bed and reemerged in the kitchen. From the oven’s digital clock, it was quarter after three in the morning.

He grabbed a bottle of water from the fridge and sipped. I must have fallen asleep early. I’m pretty energized! Using his magic, Vincent revisited the bedroom and retrieved his phone. Making a pit-stop, he grabbed Tierney’s copy of the EC bylaws and escaped to the back patio. Sitting on the back porch, the mage began reading in the moonlight. He silently thanked his wolf for the gift of sight in the dark. After an hour of reading, a distant pull came from his bond. I think Mace just woke up. Listening carefully, he heard the muffled sound of footsteps, “I’m on the patio, big guy.”

The door opened slowly as Mason stepped out, rubbing his eyes, “Pup? What… “ A tense yawn forced the lycan’s mouth wide, “What are you doing out here?”

“You rolled over and damn-near caused an earthquake in the bed. I’ve only been up for an hour or so. Just brushing up on lycan land ownership laws.” Vincent watched his mate take a seat next to him on the padded bench. He leaned into Mason’s arms and closed the book, “I thought about going for a run, but I didn’t want to go without you.”

Mason nestled his head into Vincent’s neck, play-biting the mark he left, “You don’t need my permission to run. If you want it, have fun.”

“Really? Are you sure?”

“Yeah! I mean, I’ll always want to run with you, but if you and your wolf need to burn some energy, then go for it.”

Vincent thought for a minute, then nodded, “I think I will in a few minutes. I won’t be long if you want to head back to bed.”

“Sounds good to me, baby.” With a peck on Vincent’s cheek, Mason excused himself and returned to the bedroom.

Vincent set the book down, took off his clothes, and walked into the yard. He began his transformation, letting his wolf come to the front of his mind. Don’t stay out too long, I’d like to get back to bed for a couple hours.

I run fast! Get tired, then sleep.

Sounds good to me, bud! The speckled wolf took off for the woods. He grew accustomed to going on runs with Mason and learned the layout of the forest. Assessing himself, Vincent could use some food, but didn’t feel the need to take down a deer. I hate to suggest it, but a rabbit might be fine.

Rabbit good! Small and tender.

Oh, gods! Please don’t use that word again. I’m already feeling bad for killing it.

Be fast, won’t hurt.

If you say so, but I swear, if there’s a family of them, you’re turning your furry tuchus around!

Ha! Human kind. Okay, but you cook if no eat.

Deal. Vincent sprinted, relinquishing his pent-up energy. After a healthy burst, he slowed and treaded between the trees. Well, no rabbit. Time to go home!

Nice try. Patient. Food take minute. Patrolling, the wolf was cautious as he avoided stepping on twigs and revealing himself. Not five minutes later, he spotted it; a lonely hare. See? By self, too!

Oh, fine! Do what you need to. Stalking, he closed the distance between him and his prey. But he became too focused on his prize and broke a stick under his paw. In a flash, the hare fled, only for Vincent to follow in hot pursuit. He ran as fast as he could, but the rabbit was agile. Geez, this little guy can run!

Vincent debated a better tactic but settled on continuing in the rabbit’s path. Best to follow. Try flank, but rabbit get lead. Determined not to be bested by his meal, the wolf pressed on. Closing the gap, Vincent could smell the fear. He neared the prey and in a burst of speed, his maw clenched around the rabbit’s neck. Crushing it, he couldn’t feel its heartbeat.

He took a few paces before laying down and feasted upon his snack. Vincent’s human mind did his best to turn away from the scene. Human no like?

Well, it tastes good, but this is only the fourth time we’ve eaten raw game. I’m just trying to get used to it, I suppose.

I get used to green stuff, you do this.

That’s fair. Just as both minds focused on their prize, the wolf snapped a bone to gain access. Oh, my gods! That's sickening!

It need happen. Meat hide in rabbit behind small bones. Once he had gotten his fill, Vincent stepped away from the carcass and rested. Despite the prey being smaller, the rabbit put up more of a chase than the deer. Satisfied with himself, Vincent stood back up and howled. His voice verberated through the trees and into the morning air. Trotting, he made his way back to the house.

Reaching the yard, the lycan reverted back to his human form and collected his clothing and the book. With his hands full, Vincent slipped under the door’s shadow and made his way to bed. Stopping by the office to put the book into its proper home, he heard the bed squeak before falling back into silence. We might need to find a new mattress. I’m surprised a spring hasn’t come through yet!

Opening the door, Vincent saw his mate and immediately felt his eyes burning with arousal.

Mason was completely naked and propped on hands and knees, staring a hole through Vincent’s skull with amber irises, “Alpha… ”

Hearing his mate’s lustful tone quickened Vincent’s heart rate. What… What is he doing?

He want mate. Does he want mate?

I think that’s obvious.

No. He want us to mark!

Vincent took a step forward and dropped his clothes. No lights were on, but he could see every detail on his man. Mason’s palms were flat across the mattress, his legs spread perfectly so Vincent could see the dangling manhood, and further down his back, the rounded ass was noticeable.

“M-Mace? What are you—”

“Fuck me.” The words were raspy as the larger Alpha’s aroma of lust and need filled the room, “Mate me, Vinnie. I need my Alpha.”

Straightening his stance, Vincent’s gaze burned brighter. He and his wolf sensed the nudge from the animal instinct within. He… He really wants it?

Yes. Go! Take mate! Take what ours!

I… I haven’t done that before.

What? What mean?

I’ve never been inside of anyone before.

I do, if want.

I think I can do it, but I’m sure going to give you a turn before things get all furry. Witnessing Mason in an unfamiliar pose, Vincent couldn’t help but admire it. He walked around the bed to gaze and playfully toy with the man. “Tell me,” The mage noticed his voice was unnaturally deeper, “what do you want?”

Mason’s toes curled as he shuddered, “I want to please my mate.”

The frosty blue eyes flashed brighter. Vincent lined his index finger with ice and trailed the digit along the lycan’s exposed thigh, leading to the arm. “How would you please me?”

Shivering at the frigid touch, Mason gasped and spouted answers, “I want to suck your cock. I want to—” As the first part of his pleas were spoken, he found Vincent’s rigid manhood in front of his face. Without hesitation, he took it and engulfed the shaft whole.

Vincent moaned but was again surprised by the bass in his voice. His sight never left the amber eyes. Another prod from the instinct told Vincent to leave his mate’s mouth. He lowered himself to kiss Mason. Vincent forced his tongue into the moist cavern and explored. Vibrations within both mens’ chests signaled their wolves’ approval, but Vincent grew interested in his partner’s growl. Did he just moan?

The two changed positions and Mason laid on his back with legs spread with Vincent between them. Growing hesitant about taking his mate, Vincent gave control to his wolf. “You are mine.” Seeing a heightened glow from Mason’s eyes, the mage surveyed the man beneath him. Still in his human form, Vincent dove and nibbled on Mason’s neck, playfully beginning his mark.

An unkempt moan filled the room, “Vinnie! You’re the best. Take me, my mate!”

“No, not yet.” Vincent rose from Mason’s neck. Leaving a trail with his tongue, the aroused mage wanted to bathe the larger alpha in his scent. Want all to know he mine!

Mason watched and inhaled as his erection was covered. “Vin! Gods, yes! Suck me!”

Vincent took in the room’s aroma. He could smell Mason’s pine and cinnamon odor mixing with his. Yes! He smells good! Abandoning his current toy, the blue-eyed wolf had a new one in mind, “Lift legs.”

With some hesitation, Mason followed his mate’s order. “Be careful, Vinnie. I… No one’s been down there before.”

“It mine? No one else?” Seeing a smirk, Vincent wanted to make the moment perfect. Gazing down, he admired his prize. Pressing his finger against the target, Vincent kept his eyes fixated on Mason’s. After the pants and pleads, the smaller alpha went down for a taste. Remnants of a recent shower were mixed in with the wolf’s natural scent. Vincent went wild, barely able to control himself as he combed his tongue over and inside Mason.

Despite the arousal pouring from the alpha, Vincent could smell Mason’s nervousness, “Breathe, mate. I tell wolf no want.”

“No!” Mason’s voice dropped an octave, “I want! Just… not used to feeling!”

Hearing his fellow wolf on the surface, Vincent grinned, showing all of his teeth, “It feel good. It hurt first, but feel good. I try not to hurt.” Earning a nod, the wolf continued to please his mate. A noise distracted Vincent as Mason handed him the bottle of lubricant. “You ready, mate?”

“Yes. Be slow.”

“I will.” Straightening his posture, Vincent took the bottle and applied a hefty amount to himself. Taking more, he pressed against Mason with his finger. “Relax. I loosen. No want to hurt.” Rubbing the target, Vincent felt the larger man’s breathing pattern. On the next exhalation, he pressed, breaching his mate.

Mason hissed, but the finger was going nowhere. “Hurts!”

“I know. Kiss me.” The two leaned forward to create a distraction for Mason’s discomfort. In moments, the larger lycan breathing steadied. Vincent playfully created a small motion with his digit and watched as Mason’s eyes widened. “Feel good?”

“Y-Yes! More. I want more!” The mage obliged and slowly increased his rhythm. A smirk appeared on Vincent’s face as Mason lifted his legs once more.

Now! Feeling his mate was well prepared, he removed the finger, much to Mason’s displeasure. Vincent pressed himself in his finger’s place and started to slide in. His hips were grabbed as a resounding moan broke the silence. Warmth encompassed his manhood, along with a sense of constriction. With no effort or complaint from either party, Vincent’s groin rested against Mason’s body.

The instinct in Vincent’s mind lurched forward. What instinct do?

Uh oh.

Human? What know?

I think we need to enjoy our time with Mason as much as possible. I think we’re about to shift into the hybrid!

What? No want shift to hybrid.

It doesn’t matter, our instinct demands it. Mace couldn’t control his when he mated me.

No control again?

I don’t know, bud. I just hope Mason can handle it. With his instinct growing stronger, Vincent made love to his mate, while he could. “Instinct grow strong. Try to last long.”

Mason lifted his head to stare at his pup, “It okay. Feel so good now! Harder. Fuck me hard, mate!”

Lovemaking turned to urgent movement. Vincent’s wolf thrived off the noises Mason created. Pumping a few more times into his mate, the instinct washed over Vincent’s minds. He grunted as his fur trickled out of his pores and his body started the transformation. Having no control over his body, Vincent faltered in his performance. He watched as Mason’s eyes dimmed, but maintained a faint glow. “It’s okay, pup. Let your body shift.”

Vincent took the advice and let his instinct take over. The shift was seamless and gave no pain or discomfort. He was in his hybrid form. Towering over the alpha, he looked down and resumed. Pumping led to thrusting as the hulking wolf lowered his head closer to Mason’s neck. The tightness around his manhood was like a vice, but he persisted nevertheless. Mason’s breathing grew labored. “That’s it, Vin! Take me! Mark me with your bite!”

Nearing his climax, Vincent sniffed and licked the intended home for his mark. “C-Close!”

“Do it, pup. I… Oh, gods!” Mason convulsed, sputtering his seed between the moving bodies. The odor hit Vincent’s nose, bringing him to the edge. With pinpoint precision, Vincent struck. He latched to Mason’s neck as he bred his mate. Blood filled the wolf’s mouth, and more pumped in as his mate’s heart beat.

We… We did it. We completed our bond with Mason!

Yes! Feel good be inside. Need let go. Mate need shift to heal. Vincent and his wolf tried to take control of their body to no avail. This problem!

I’ll say! I remember from when I was bit, Lei, Doc, and Caleb were outside to distract Mace. How do we do it here?

“G-Good job, pup.” Mason’s voice, along with the hand petting the top of his skull brought Vincent back to Earth. “We’re complete. Nothing will break us apart, not even death.” A minute passed and the wolf exited his mate.

Vincent found himself in control after a minute and stepped off the bed, “Mace hurt. Shift, big guy!”

With a pillow balled to his neck, Mason smirked, “I will in a sec. I want the mark to be as visible as possible.” Grunting from the discomfort, the alpha sighed, “That was amazing, Vin. I never thought having someone inside me like that would be so hot! Anytime you want it, you got it.”

He appreciated the joke, but the hybrid sat on the edge of the bed and caressed Mason’s head. “That nice, but you shift. Lose lot of blood.”

“I gotcha. I’ll partially shift real fast.” Mason took away the pillow for a moment, giving Vincent a glimpse of the damage he caused. “Don’t worry, it doesn’t hurt too bad. Mating bites are kind of like a bee-sting.” Leaning up, the wounded man transformed his head down to his collarbone. Reverting the shift, the injury stopped bleeding but left a gruesome scar in its wake. “How’s it look, Vinnie? That’s all yours.”

Vincent stared at the gnarly cicatrix and felt a wave of pride coming from both his wolf and instinct. That’s ours?

Yes! Mate is marked! No one mistake it. He belong to us!

Wow, that’s… That’s kind of hot! The sound of his heavy breathing reminded him he was still in his hybrid form. Picturing his human form, Vincent’s body snapped into place. “C’mon, let’s get these bloody sheets and stuff off the bed. That pillow can get tossed too.”

Mason chuffed, “You really don’t like the sight of blood, do you?”

“Nope, I really don’t, especially yours.” Grabbing the comforter, Vincent walked into the hallway towards the laundry room, “Now hurry up! I’m starving and could use some food!”

Shaking his head, Mason laughed to himself and started with the sheet corners. He stopped for a moment and traced the new addition to his body. He shivered but the feeling was more than welcome.

***

“This meeting is now in session!”

Cyrus sat among the attending pack members. Kaplan, you fibbed! You said there would only be Betas, Deltas, and influential members here! There’s almost three hundred people in this hall! The bear was distracted by the illusioned secrecy in the New York pack. To have these secret basement levels for our use is quite interesting! I doubt many would guess there is a lavish hall under The Plaza Hotel! As Tierney opened the meeting, Cyrus brought his attention back.

As the district betas gave their reports, the bear saw the man next to him leaning closer, “Excuse me, sir?”

Curling a grin, Cyrus met the man's eye, with the same hushed whisper, “Please, I am no sir.”

“I don’t believe I’ve seen you here before.”

“I’m afraid you haven’t. Consider me a fresh face to the community.”

The well-dressed man smirked and looked over the bear’s tailored burgundy suit, “It takes a sizable contribution to the pack for newcomers to visit the meetings.”

“Oh, I assure you. I’m contributing my fair share. Is it common for there to be conversation like this during a pack meeting?”

“Depends whether you support the blowhard up there.” The commentary earned Cyrus’ attention, “He’s been the best Alpha this pack has seen in recent decades, but he knows nothing of the people.”

Whispering under his breath, Cyrus needed to know more. “I apologize, I haven’t caught your name.”

“Snyder. Harold Snyder, and you?”

With a cheeky grin, the panda lowered his hand as an offer, “Cyrus Vonder. Tell me more about this… blowhard.”

Snyder bobbed his head in respect, “He sits in his office all day, doing who knows what while his betas and deltas do all the dirty work.”

Interested in the choice of words, Cyrus wanted to hear more of this man’s perspective, “Dirty work? Tell me more about this Alpha Scott character.”

“The betas manage the districts with him just pointing fingers. He expects results, no matter the solution. Any one of his subordinates will tell you how he mistreats them!”

“Mistreats?” Cyrus knew where the conversation was going, but he couldn’t help but follow the proverbial rabbit.

Snyder shifted in his seat, “I’ve heard from my sources about one of the betas. Poor lad.” Leaning closer to Cyrus, the wolf whispered even softer, “I heard he… services that man.”

Squinting his eyes, the alpha found himself in a matter of gossip. I highly doubt this! Tierney still reeks of that tigress and no one else. This man is full of it, but I must learn where these rumors are coming from. “Is your source reliable? I’m not one to believe in hogwash, but you seem like a trustworthy member of this pack.”

“Reliable? My source is on the council!”

Cyrus almost didn’t believe the man! Double-checking, he inhaled and suspected no signs of nervousness or lying. “The council? My, my! I have my own resources as well that could be of some assistance. Do you know which one of the betas are being… subjected?”

“The one to the alpha’s right. Small, skinny kid. That ursus mark has to be make-up because that wasn't there last month!”

The bear’s playful demeanor dropped. Cyrus knew the man’s information was false. If that were true, then I would have smelled Tierney on my Kaplan. No, something is afoot here. He begrudgingly picked up his charade and asked, “Who is your informant? Not to be nosey, but I’m not one to take rumor as factual information.”

The lycan was hesitant, “I just met you, Mr. Vonder.”

“Yes, you did, Mr. Snyder. But I did make my way into this meeting. If I am to do business to make this city and pack more successful, I’d like to know more about the men that may hinder my cash flow.”

Snyder took a moment to contemplate, but ultimately fell for Cyrus’ harmless smile, “Fourth man on the alpha’s left.”

Confirming the man’s informant, Cyrus withheld his growl, “Perhaps later, we can conduct business? I’m sure we could benefit from each other’s goals.”

“You have a deal. Cyrus, was it?” Earning a nod from the bear the lycan returned his attention to the ongoing meeting, “I’ll speak with you later this week.”

With the conversation tabled, Cyrus focused on the speaker. Looks like I missed a few of the district reports. I’ll get a recap from my little pup, and there will be meetings with the betas in a few days anyway.

Two more reports were given by the betas, as well as an update from a delta. Afterward, Tierney instructed Kaplan to relay the old business topics. Cyrus typed into his phone, taking notes over the subjects and the new information brought into the conversations. Nothing too heavy. From my meeting with Holman yesterday, we have a great plan going forward this season! The lycan homeless issue will likely be my first challenge in office. It seems to be running rampant in different sections of the city, and it needs to be squashed! Can’t have ferals roaming the streets of New York, now can we?

No, that bad. Human get exposed or turn. Find job for homeless.

Excellent idea, and coordinate with Housing to find temporary homes until these shifters can get back on their feet. No doubt some sort of itinerary is already in place, but should we have extra cash income from Holman’s department, we can use that for funding.

Money meeting later, not important.

Agreed, let’s table that discussion.

The old business matters were settled and Tierney rose from his seat behind the long row of tables. “New pack matters for this evening. We are joined by a new face in the audience today, and he is an important face that I recommend you all learn.” Tierney eyed Cyrus, who kept a patented grin, “Before I introduce this man, I have an important announcement to make! The past decade has brought new heights to the New York State Pack. We have overcome challenges, faced natural disasters this city hasn’t seen in years, and tragedies that will not be forgotten.

“But we’ve seen growth! Our pack’s population has risen, lower crime rates among lycan living in the city, and a financial boom that hasn’t been seen since the housing market crash. Through the diligent work of the council, current and former, this pack has remained the most respected one in the world. Without a doubt in my mind, everyone in this room has played their role to make our pack and city the best it can be.

“Now it’s time for me to take a step back.” Gasps and murmurs filled the room, Tierney held up his hand to silence them, “I’ve led this pack for a decade, longer than many recent alphas. Quite simply, I’m tired. My wolf and I have accomplished much in this city, and it will always have a special place in my heart. I informed the Executive Council a few weeks ago, and my council a week later. Tonight is my official retirement announcement.” Taking a moment to breathe and control his emotions, Tierney was shaken when everyone in the room stood and applauded. Cyrus looked at his friend and saw how hard he was trying to hold back tears. He then glanced at Snyder, who carried a low-hanging smirk but mimicked the crowd's reaction.

With a cough and another hand extended, the crowd simmered and sat, “With this announcement, comes another. A new face has joined our pack. In a fashion that only he would appreciate, I’ll put you all in suspense. Someone in this room is the next Alpha to the New York State Pack.” The statement garnered gasps and darted glances.

Cyrus kept his head straight, staring at Tierney. From the corner of his eye, he saw Snyder turn his head in a slow motion, “Y-You!” The man kept his natural whisper from before, “You’re the... “

Tierney’s voice commanded the room again, “Ladies and gentlemen of the New York State Pack, it is my honor to welcome your new leader! Alpha Cyrus Vonder!”

Despite the applause for both Tierney and their mystery leader, the crowd maintained a level of vigilance. They’re searching for their new figurehead. I suppose I can’t keep them waiting. Rising from his chair, he straightened his suit blazer and walked into the aisle. He glanced at Snyder and registered the shock on the man’s face. Never reveal your cards, Harold. That is my first lesson in leadership.

As he strolled toward Tierney and the standing council, the panda heard the whispers around him. “He’s the new Alpha?” “Was there even a vote?” “How can a bear lead? He’ll just sleep and eat all day!” The questions and statements never hurt him. Cyrus knew he was above their pettiness. He watched as Tierney walked in front of the tables to meet him halfway. Reaching the alpha lycan, the two firmly grasped hands.

“Tierney, how dare you put your pack in a state of confusion! That is something I planned to do one day!” Laughter filled the room, breaking the tension of Cyrus’ rise to the podium.

Tierney’s boisterous laugh could not be held, “I couldn’t help it. It was a damn good way to introduce you, though. Hope you’re ready for a speech.”

“I’m always ready, Alpha Scott.” Their handshake ended and the two turned to the pack’s prominent members, “Good evening, and thank you all for coming! Before I steal the spotlight, could we have one more round for Alpha Scott?” As he requested, the group responded. Cyrus cheekily swiveled and clapped as well. The panda relished in Tierney’s awkward response of trying to hush the meeting. Sidestepping between the pack and their leader, Cyrus stood stoically, “I first would like to say thank you to Alpha Scott. I’ve worked with the Executive Council for some time now, and you’ve been a role model to so many younger alphas around the world. From the Oak View Pack in California, to the New Delhi Skinwalker Coalition, you have provided hopes and dreams to many of our planet’s future leaders. I am but one voice in this world, but one voice is all it takes. Thank you, Alpha Scott, for your hard work and immense dedication!

“Nevertheless, even heroes need their rest. I have visited the lands to which you intend to retire to, and I can not blame your longing. The forests in Kentucky are indeed addictive, even my bear demanded a run!” General laughter filled the room, much as Cyrus’ intended. “I was honored to be considered an option to operate as Alpha for such a prominent pack, and now I stand before you, humbled to be chosen. The Executive Council gave me a career to hone my skills, perhaps to prepare me for such a moment. I’ve traveled across the globe, assisting packs and tribes of shapeshifters, ranging in species. On the other side of the same coin, I brought justice to those that needed structure and reform, and even shut some down when they fell to the wrong side of morality.

“But I am done traveling. The world spins, and for the longest time, I thought I had to move with it to survive. Through that time, I’ve discovered the world is going to keep going, with or without me. While I still consider myself young, my bear demanded that enough was enough! Enough running around, and like a good shapeshifter, I listened to my animal. I don’t believe I would have gotten very far in life if it weren’t for my bear’s wise instincts. The Council offered me a job, my bear made a declaration, so now,” Cyrus inhaled and scanned the crowd, “New York is my home. This is my home, just as it is yours, and your neighbors, and the strangers you pass on the street every minute of every day. I stand before you as the incoming Alpha to this pack, and I will fight for you. Whether it be in a boardroom or on the battlefield,” Letting his emerald eyes shine bright, pride filled the bear’s heart, “I will defend you with my last breath.”

Staying silent, Cyrus watched as the attending pack rose with firm applause. He gave them a moment while he smiled sincerely. For those pesky comments, they know how to change an opinion! "While I am the new face among strangers, I already feel a sense of brother and sisterhood among you all! For the next few months, I will be working with Alpha Scott to acclimate myself to the position. I find no shame in saying I am not prepared to fully take the position just yet. As a favor, I wish to speak with you all during this time to get to know you, to learn from you, about your beliefs, and how to build a better pack. Despite what goes on in our world, I strongly believe every opinion matters, and how it deserves to be voiced. For now, let us turn to our current Alpha. While his retirement is looming, he has dedicated his remaining time to the New York State Pack without distraction. Thank you, all!"

Bowing his head, Cyrus gave his respect to the attending pack, earning another cheery response from the group. Stepping to the side, Tierney shook his hand. The wolf whispered, "Great speech, Cyrus! Ready for your first disciplinary hearing?"

Cyrus' smile curled, "Table it. New information has come up and I need to investigate it."

The bear could tell his friend wanted to snarl behind the fake smirk, "Come again?"

"It's fresh, and there's no time now to discuss it. We will bring it up at the next meeting."

Tierney released the bear's hand, "I don't like this."

"I don't either, but your reputation is on the line. My condo at midnight. Bring Kaplan and Wagner, they're involved as well. Continue the meeting."

The men turned to face their crowd as Tierney spoke, "I can not think of a more fitting way to end this meeting. We will now have our open floor discussion." Numerous hands raised and Tierney pointed to one in the front, "Lawrence, you have the floor."

"Yes, Alpha Scott. Alpha Vonder, what is your number one concern coming into our pack?" As the question was asked, several hands were lowered.

Cyrus nodded to the lycan, "My concern lies with the shapeshifter homeless. These men and women came here in search of refuge, or have lost their way. I want to get them off the streets and into housing, along with work to get them on their feet. Our pack leadership owes them a hand in assistance so they can find needed employment. I haven't dived into pack finances yet, but I will find a way to help them. A wise man once said, more hands make less work. Everyone can benefit the pack."

With the man's question asked, less hands were raised. Must have been their primary question. A woman raised her hand swiftly, catching Cyrus' attention, "Yes, with the beautiful red dress."

The lady chuckled behind a lifted hand, "Alpha Vonder, how does a bear's leadership differ from a lycan's? I haven't seen an ursus in political action in a larger pack like New York."

Giggling in delight, the panda clapped his hands together, "A marvelous question! Ursus are often painted as relaxed and steady, and I bear no difference to that picture. You will not catch me sleeping on the job, I am very forward and blunt, with no need to hide. Politically, I work the same; swift and justified. Business is my game, and I do what's best for those I serve. If I find underhandedness, I turn their paws until the truth comes out."

"Follow up, question. I don't want to seem crude, but your scent is distinct. You are no bear I've ever come across."

Tierney stepped forward, "Colleen, I don't think Alpha Von-" He was hushed as Cyrus lifted his hand.

"I love this question as well! What is your name, miss?"

Holding her hand to her chest, the lady responded, "Colleen Krist."

Cyrus curled his lips in delight, "Well, Miss Krist, my breed of bear is seldom seen in person, and I have no problem with the question. Curiosity is a gift! You show the need to learn more of this world, and that is something to hold onto. To answer your question, I believe a demonstration is required. As Alpha Scott hinted, I'm one for the dramatics!"

Removing his jacket, the bear revealed his long sleeve white dress shirt, navy blue vest, and silver tie. Laying his jacket on the podium, Cyrus unbuttoned his sleeve, pushing it up, before partially shifting his arm, covering his tattoo in black fur with a large patch of white along his elbow. His claws unfurled as the pack gasped and marveled at the transformation, "I am a panda ursus."

Upon hearing the confirmation, the attending members, as well as a few uninformed betas and deltas were whispering to each other before Colleen cleared her throat, "I, for one, am thrilled to not only learn of your existence but also welcome you to our pack, Alpha Vonder. At the risk of hogging the floor, when are you to be inducted into NYSP as a member?"

Reverting his arms, Cyrus answered while adorning his jacket, "When I am sworn in as Alpha and I perform my Mage's Dance." More whispering followed the announcement as Cyrus grinned, "Before it is asked, I will keep my affinity a secret. I intend to surprise those in attendance."

Colleen bared her neck and took her seat. Additional questions were asked involving plans for office, to which Cyrus answered flawlessly. One question from another she-wolf left the bear in giggles. "Alpha Vonder, at the risk of sounding indecent, are there plans for a Mrs. Vonder?"

After his giggle fit, Cyrus flashed his eyes behind closed eyelids, "I am afraid Mrs. Vonder will not be making an appearance in my lifetime. But to answer the underlying question, I am in courtship. It is possible the pack may meet Mr. Vonder in the future." While the lady blushed and seated herself, Cyrus tuned out the blabbering members. He felt Kaplan's adorable stare in the back of his mind. I won't look. No need to reveal our relationship to the pack just yet. Let's give that some time to blossom first.

Agree. No show mate.

My bear, we have to show him to our new home at some point. We'll discuss this later, we have more questions to answer.

Half an hour flew by as Cyrus gave responses to a few more inquiries; some about his personal life, but mostly for his term in power. The hands fell and Tierney saw an opportune time to close the meeting. Bodies rose from their seats and flocked towards Cyrus. The pack wanted to network with their soon-to-be Alpha.

But Cyrus had other plans. He targeted his only non-council business connection, "Mr. Snyder! A moment, if you would?" Meeting with the man, the bear found himself surrounded by others contending for his attention, "Alone, please?" The request was accepted and the pack went to hound Tierney in hopes of statements. "I must apologize for my secrecy. My love for theatrics knows no bounds."

"None taken, Alpha." The businessman grew nervous being around the bear.

"My first request is for you to drop the title. I haven't taken the throne just yet. Second, you are the first to welcome me outside of the council, so I wish to see if my business ventures can assist with yours."

Light filled Harold's face, "Of-of course! My companies spearhead steel and construction, and I think I know how I can assist."

"Oh? You wish to help the homeless? Because construction and housing will be at the forefront of my operation."

"I'm happy to help! Maybe we can discuss more at a later time? I have to get home to my mate. She's possessive about my whereabouts after the meetings."

The two exchanged contact information and separated. Cyrus turned and found himself bombarded by the pack once more. This is something new! I thought I prepared myself for attention, but not of this magnitude!

As he handled the eager shapeshifters, he looked and saw Wagner put his phone down on the table. Instinct drew the panda's eyes back to Snyder. His new business partner pulled out his phone mere seconds later. Snakes in the grass and the henhouse.