Chapter fifteen: can we do this?

The pack was busy preparing for the conference of Supernaturals. There was a lot to do! Not only did the pack have to prepare secure accommodations and diets for them but they also needed to secure the pack from possible attack at the same time. And this time it wasn't just werewolves they were defending themselves against. This time they were preparing for possible attack from every known Supernatural species still alive. True, technically all agreed to a truce on the grounds of the conference but it had been over 150 years since the last time all these creatures had been called together who knew if they would abide by the "rules." So, the pack was preparing for any eventuality.

Conrad and Tom were busy making contacts to all. Since Tom had been on the former King's advisory team, he had a list. The challenge was reaching everyone in a timely manor. Fortunately, Sarah, the witch within the pack (mated to a warrior of the pack- which is how she came to be in the Blood Moon Pack), was able to transport ambassadors to the Faye and the Dwarves. The Vanpires had cell phones and Tom had a relationship with one royal Vamp. He reached out to him and explained things and asked if he would like the Vampite King know or.give Tom a way to reach him. He chose to give Tom the King's number wanting not to irritate Vladimir.

Tom thanked him and made the call...it went to voice mail. "What the hell!" Tom cursed at being sent to voice-mail. "What on earth does a Vampire need voice-mail for?!" Tom was frustrated. He knew how important this conference was and he was, if he was honest with himself, really hoping Conrad and Cynthia could.pull this off. It was well known in the last 150 years all Supernaturals had dwindled in numbers. They needed the Kingdom and Great Council back and desperately if they were to survive another 150 years. Between prejudices among themselves leading to wars and human hunters, their numbers were 30% smaller than when the King and Queen were in power. Tom ran his hand through his graying hair and sighed.

"Father, what's wrong?" Conrad could see his Father frustrated and tired. "Nothing, son. I just am wanting to connect with everyone faster than they seem to want to answer."

"It's okay,Father. We have waited 150 years, we can wait another few days. I believe they will answer the summons. I have to believe that other Supernatural species are as concerned about peace as we are. The Moon Goddess chose now to be the time so I have to believe the time is ripe."

"True. True. I am probably just anxious for this. I admired the former King, your biological Father so much. I just want his legacy to not be forgotten. You know?"

Conrad reached out and grabbed his Father's forearm and pulled him for a hug. "I do. And he will not be forgotten. I promise."

Cynthia had been upstairs thinking. She had to stop a bit and reflect on all that had happened and in much a short amount of time. There were moments when it all felt so surreal to her. She wanted to be stronger. She wanted to be more confident and to put her past behind her forever. Athena, her wolf, had always been so confident and wise. Why couldn't she be more like her wolf. "Cynthia," Athena spoke in her mind, "You are brave, strong and confidence will come as you heal emotionally. I know you, you know. You are also compassionate and kind, which is part of what makes you a great Luna."

Cynthia hoped Athena was right. But there were moments she felt anything but strong or brave and certainly not confident.

Just as she was trying to guve herself a small pep talk,Conrad hurried through the door. "My love, what's wrong? I could feel your despondency. What happened?" He cradled her in his arms. She sighed, "Nothing, mybdear. I just want to be so much more confident and strong than I am now." "My love,you are, indeed one of the most courageous, strong she-wolves I know. You spent 17 years of being either neglected or abused and look at you. You guarded your wolf and dealt with all the torture in your human form. THAT is bravery at its finest. Not many warriors could endure such and live to tell about it let alone keep their heart pure and full of compassion. You harbor no bitterness. I am so proud of who you are!"

Conrad kissed the top of her head.

"My dear,can we do this?Can we pull this off?what if..." "Shh, my love. We 'very got this! The Moon Goddess purposed us for this."

They stood there just holding one another.