Chapter 52: The End...and New Beginnings

VALEN’S POV

The day was gloomy and cold. The scent of winter was rife in the crisp wind that danced through the air. But the chill I felt had nothing to do with the climate. It was bone deep and prevailing. It prevailed through the collection and examination of Meredith’s body and the preparation for the ceremony for her last rites.

It prevailed as I committed her to the afterlife, as was my duty as her Alpha. It prevailed as the words honoring her life flowed from my lips and even still as I stepped down and the Pack Elders made offerings to the Goddess for her safe passage.

It prevailed as I watched them lend flames to the wooden pyre laden with flowers planted on a dais. Watched as the embers burned and the flames spread, and the smoke covered the bright colors of delicate petals. Watched until all that remained was ash and soot. Watched still as even that too was lifted and carried away.