Cernunnos - 45. Chapter 45

Cyn held tight to Shea’s hand. He could smell the sorrow in the midnight air as he saw the pack adorned in black clothing. His mate explained to him they were attending a funeral for Shelly, the lady commander. It was strange to him seeing the robed body atop the neatly-placed timber. Sheamus told me the wolves honor their fallen.

Kara’s sniffling was incessant. From the whispers, a lot of the members revered Shelly. I know she smiled at me at the meeting, but I didn’t get to talk to her. He looked at Shea’s somber gaze. He’s sad. Seeking to comfort the man, Cyn stepped closer and ran a hand across the wolf’s back.

Shea whispered, “Thank you.”

Meeting the same tone, Cyn asked, “Are you okay?”

“No,” The wolf shook his head, “I don’t think a lot of people are right now. Shell meant a lot to our pack. I know Saige killed Priscilla, but I can’t help but feel this shouldn’t have happened."

As an arm was draped over Cyn's shoulder, Arric stepped forward in front of the pyre. His voice was low in tone, yet echoe throughout the area, "Thank you all for coming. We gather to mourn a loss. One of our own fell in the heat of battle against our foes.

"Shelly Boe was a fine commander. She led her forces with pride and valor. Unadulterated dedication to her position was her strongest quality. But when not on duty, she was one of, if not the most friendly faces among us. I will miss her smile and witty banter.

"At this time, those who wish to bid their farewells and leave tokens of appreciation may do so."

Cyn watched as individuals and couples ventured forth. Their whispers couldn't be heard. Many of them left trinkets and memorabilia next to the body. Shea tugged on his arm, encouraging Cyn to follow.

The wolf left a small medallion with a blue ribbon near her shoulder, "My marksmanship medal. You were jealous I outscored you on the final exam. With this, I hope you find yourself leading the holy army above."

Understanding the sentiment behind his mate's actions, Cyn glanced at Shelly. I don't have anything. Being escorted away, Cyn thought of a token. He pulled on Shea's arm, "Wait."

"Cyn?"

Shea's confusion was apparent as the deer turned back to the pyre. Kneeling, Cyn unlaced his running shoes. They were a gift to me. His socks hit the damp grass, sending shivers up his legs. It's cold, but I can manage…

Perching the set near Shelly's bare feet, Cyn furrowed his brow. Sheamus said words. What do I say? What should my gift mean?

He smiled and rested a hand along the timber bed. Aislin used to say something in Arkansas. I think a wolf would like it too.

"Run free," he whispered. Staring at her, Cyn felt Shea's hand on his shoulder. Looking up, he could see his mate's prideful smile. Together they walked away. His feet were getting cold, but Shea assured they would be shifting soon.

Several more members paid their respects. Seeing how no more had approached, Arric took a stand in front, holding a large, metal pole with a dripping head. "Now that the pack has said their piece, it's time we release Shelly's soul from its earthly bound."

He turned to face her, "Shelly, you were a dear friend, a worthy companion, and a most loyal member of our pack. The time has come for us to say our final farewell." Withdrawing a lighter, Arric ignited the torch, "With this flame, we send you on the wolf's way to the eternal forest. May you hunt until your heart's content. May you reunite with cherished ones from the past. And may your soul finally rest. As Alpha, I give you my dismissal."

Lowering the flame, he set it against the base of the pyre. Once spread, the torch was moved to the head, then again to the foot. Arric circled the small structure in complete silence, propping the flame against the tinder along the way. Stepping away with a bowed head, the alpha joined the crowd. The only sound disturbing the silence was the crackling embers.

Arric took off his blazer and unbuttoned the shirt, signaling for the pack to follow his lead. Leaving their clothes on the ground, everyone shifted. Cyn glanced around. Everyone has their heads low. Shea’s muzzle nudged his side. He saw the wolf’s demeanor and decided to mimic it.

When a low howl pierced the air, Cyn lifted his head. That’s Arric! He sounds… sad. One by one, the members’ voices echoed the alpha’s. In the distance, he heard two bears, one being Orson’s. The deer snapped out of the trance when Shea’s howl joined. Cyn wanted to comfort his mate. He embodied the sadness around him and bleated. It didn’t last as long as the other sounds, so Cyn repeated himself until the pack grew quiet.

Another nudge broke his concentration. Shea’s eyes were sparkling from falling tears. The dark gray wolf rubbed against him. Returning the affection, Cyn bent his neck and nuzzled Shea’s.

***

Stepping inside, Arric closed the door behind him and sighed. The smell of ash remained in his nasal cavity. Shouldering his jacket off, he draped it over the couch. Putting it in its proper place did not matter to him at the moment.

He took a few steps forward, but a knock at the door disrupted him. Opening it, he smiled, “Hey, Key.”

“Hey, Alpha.” Kieran’s somber tone showcased his mood. “You okay?”

Arric nodded, “Yeah, but this shit doesn’t get easier.”

The scribe stepped forward and placed a hand on Arric’s waist, “I get that. I don’t envy your role.”

The statement was curious, even through Kieran’s blatant sincerity. “You don’t?”

“No. You lead the pack, even in the darkest times. I couldn’t imagine…” Kieran coughed and wiped his eyes with a sleeve, “Sorry.”

“Hey,” He brought the shorter wolf into his arms, “It’s okay, pup. I know you and Shelly were pretty good friends.” As he held Kieran, he felt the body convulse. His shoulder warmed as moisture collected on the shirt from Kieran's tears.

The sniffling calmed, but the body remained in place. “Thanks,” Kieran whispered.

Arric nuzzled the shaggy head of hair, “No problem.”

“No, I need to get used to it.”

Looking down, he barely saw Kieran’s gritted teeth. Get used to it? “What does that mean?”

Kieran’s head rose, meeting the alpha’s gaze, “If… If I’m going to be your beta, I need to get used to stuff like this.”

My beta? “Key? You’ve accepted the nomination? You can have more time to think abou—”

“I don’t need to. Like you and Walter said, there’s no other option. If you two say I’m the best for the job… then I’ll do it for the pack.”

Arric’s brows indented, “I don't want you to take it if you don't want it."

An eternity of silence passed before Kieran whispered, "Like I told you when I accepted my scribe nomination; I want to help where I can. Will you need me to keep being the scribe?"

The alpha sighed, "For the time being. I'd like to minimize your duties as much as possible, but it'll be hard to find a historian and youth leader."

"Can I suggest for Walter to be the youth leader? I know he's substituted for me when I was busy with university work, and the kids keep asking about him."

Arric nodded. Swapping roles. Makes sense to me. Walt'll need something to keep him occupied. Vivianne can be a handful at times. "We'll discuss it at this week's council meeting. There's plenty on the agenda." His voice faltered, remembering there was no acting hunting team commander.

Kieran clearly saw the dismayed look. He squeezed Arric's hand, "Want some coffee? You look like you need it."

Shaking his head, Arric snorted, "Nah. Coffee doesn't fix everything."

"Then… would you like for me to sit with you?"

The idea sounded pleasant. He led the way to the couch. Turning on the TV, Kieran sat closely; melding into Arric's arm. The sound of a door opening caught the alpha's attention, but any sense of alarm was muted when Shea called out. Seeing grimaced faces, Arric gestured to the loveseat, "Mind joining us for a movie?"

Shea nodded, "Sure. It'll take my mind off everything." The couple took similar positions, showing clear signs of exhaustion. The four sat in relative silence, only to occasionally whisper to their respective partners.

Halfway into the movie, Cyn fell asleep, prompting the enforcer to carry him upstairs. Kieran yawned as Shea passed by, "I should head home."

Concerned, Arric held the man tightly, "You can stay the night. I don't want you on the road if you're tired." Before the man could object, Arric laid a finger on Kieran's lips. "I'm asking. Please?"

The scribes eyes were unwavering, and Arric understood the confusion. It's not often I use that word, but I couldn't live with myself if he fell asleep at the wheel.

"Okay, Alpha. Let me get my earbuds out of the car." They both rose and Arric escorted Kieran outside.

Coming back in, he smiled as the scribe started up the stairs with a backpack. "You don't have to take a guest room. Those two might get busy in the night."

The lanky wolf turned around, "You want to share a bed?"

Scared he had taken too big of a step, Arric shook his head vigorously, "N-no. Well, only if you want. It's just an offer." His heart pounded and nervousness filled his chest.

Kieran gave him a half-smile and descended, "I'd like that, but to be clear, we're just sleeping, right?"

"Of course! Just…" As Arric stuttered, Kieran raised an eyebrow. "Would… you mind if I held you?"

Receiving a nod as a response, Arric took Kieran by the hand. Entering the dark bedroom, the alpha thought he was breaking many steps in the relationship rulebook. It's been a short time since we started dating, and we're going to share a bed! Hell, I haven't even taken him on a dinner date yet.

The two took their shirts off and stared at one another. Arric wanted to growl as he saw the slender lycan before him, but it was withheld. He turned and proceeded to unbuckle his pants. Walking to the dresser, he felt Kieran’s gaze on him. “Do you need some shorts or pants?”

“I… uh, no. I have some in my bag.”

As Arric unfurled a rolled-up pair of pajama pants, he snuck a peek at his partner. He had previously thought about this moment, but was captivated seeing Kieran’s half-naked body. Despite his skinny figure, Kieran had defined muscles. Arric scowled as the man’s boxers were baggy, hiding any pertinent details. He kept a secretive watch as the athletic shorts’ waistband rose and cupped the ample cheekage Arric knew existed. Quickly adorning his bottoms, he took the side of the bed closest to the door. Unfurling the cover, he pondered the innate decision. Why? I always took the middle or the other side.

His wolf grunted within his mind. To protect? Arric understood the reasoning. My wolf? You like Key, don’t you? A strong huff confirmed his suspicions. Before he could further question it, Kieran passed by, plugging his phone into the outlet by the nightstand. “Do you need to be up by a certain time?”

“Not really, but I’ve always been an early riser. I’ll probably head to the university and library tomorrow to let my bosses know about taking the beta role.” At the same time, the two slid under the comforter.

Arric could not ignore the distance between them. He’s hugging the edge of the bed. “I’m not a bed-hog, you know.” He inched closer as Kieran smiled and mimicked the movement. “You’re nervous.”

Kieran scratched his head, “That obvious?”

“Yeah. Your strategic side’s been showing all night. Just because you’re nominated to be my beta doesn’t mean you can’t be yourself.”

He watched the lycan swallow and avert his eyes, “I don’t know, Arric. My wolf’s telling me I should take things more seriously now.”

“Why, because you’ll be a pack leader? Key, tell your wolf to open his eyes. You already are one.” When Kieran’s gaze lifted, Arric thumbed the scribe’s ear, “Has anyone told you this pack respects the hell out of you? Some are even scared by how smart you are!”

“R-really?”

“Yeah! You didn’t need to hide your goofiness as a lower council member, and you don’t need to now.”

Kieran bit his lip, “But—”

“Uh-uh! All I ask is for you to keep being yourself. I can’t stop you from changing your personal behavior, but just know I like you for who you are… okay?”

The lycan’s face was unmoving for several seconds before Kieran smiled again. He whispered, “Thanks, Alpha.” The eyes closed as his head advanced. Arric mirrored and met him for a brief kiss. “I think you asked if you could hold me?”

The alpha grinned and eliminated any distance between them, “I’d like that a lot.”