~ JESSE ~
"Can I have everyone's attention please?" Rake called from up on the dais.
I felt the rush of relief rock through Cazz, immediately followed by a new zing of tension. We were standing elbow to elbow in front of a cluster of older females that Cazz had introduced me to as matriarchs of three different packs. The females were all eyeing me with a combination of disapproval and sharp attention, but all of us turned to face the stage then because Rake was calling the rite to a close.
"The King and Queen thank you for your attention and attendance tonight. And they wish all the Select blessings and clarity. Now that our traditions have been fulfilled, you will be given seven days to consider- to grow to know each other better. Then all of us will return here a week from tonight for any final challenges and declarations.