Chapter 41: The Joining Ceremony

The shifters who stayed were offered refreshments and assigned instructors who would help them sharpen their fighting skills. They were also invited to the joining ceremony and celebration to take place in just a few hours.

“We're close to the number of shifters as in your father’s time.” Grey told me as we mingled with the newcomers.

“More will join us, too,” I said. “That couple I was speaking to said their cousins and some neighbors wanted time to think before they agreed to join us. They believe they’ll come around.”

“There's more safety for our kind in a pack.” Grey took my hand.

“And it’s a marvelous feeling to belong to a large family,” I smiled into his eyes as my aunt appeared next to us.

“It’s time to prepare for the ceremony,” she announced. “Grey, Dierk and Finn are waiting at the caretaker's cottage to help you look your best. And Emma, you need to come with me. Lily is waiting in your room.”

After a kiss from Grey, my aunt led me to my bedroom.