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Keisha's POV

...

"You can open your eyes now, My Lady,"

I did as I was told, and a soft gasp escaped my lips.

I could barely recognise the dazzling female staring back at me in the mirror. My maid, Rayna, had really done a good job with my makeup.

The brunette stood behind me in simple brown silk attire, wearing that familiar, shy expression. Her lips were pursed, her eyes lowered, and her long, slender fingers were nervously clasped in front of her. "I-I'm not that good, My Lady. If you aren't satisfied with it..."

"I so love it!" I told her, a satisfied smile tugging at the corners of my lips.

She let out a relieved sigh, "I'm glad you're pleased with my work. I'll go help out with the preparations, My Lady."

"Alright, you're excused," I gave a dismissive wave, and she bowed her head slightly, her right hand placed across her chest.

Then she turned to leave, not forgetting to gently shut the door the moment she crossed out of the threshold.

I did a twirl with the ankle length, form-fitting cyan gown I was wearing, pleased with the shimmer of the beads, the daring side slit and the fluidity of the fabric. I had gotten this outfit custom-tailored for tonight's event.

It was going to be grand; invited guests from other packs would also be present.

Rufus Sterling—my late father's brother—had been serving as the pack's regent for almost a decade, and he had ruled fairly well.

Tonight, he would be the one to crown my older brother Caspian as the new Alpha of Crescent Hound Pack.

Tonight, as stipulated by tradition, Caspian would also be choosing a Luna. I knew who the lucky female would be, though.

Jenna Quinn— the daughter of the pack's official Zelta, and also my childhood best friend.

She had told me she was his mate two years ago. She hadn't told anyone else because my brother wanted to keep it secret till his ascension ceremony.

Finally, I would get to see my best friend and my dear brother become official. I couldn't wait to become an aunt.

Taking my petal-shaped silver clutch, which matched my heels, from the bed, I made my way to the exit of my room with poised steps, the gentle clicking of my heels echoing on the white marble floor.

^^^

My brother was tricked out in a dark purple robe embroidered with an aureate gold thread pattern. A necklace with 7 golden fangs for pendants encircled his neck, and there was a golden crown resting on his head.

Alongside the other members of the pack present in the prodigious and tastefully decorated hall, I lowered myself to one knee and laid my right hand on my chest.

And in unison with the others, I slightly inclined my head and chorused: "We greet the new Alpha King. Long may you live! Prosperous be your rule and that of your descendants!"

At that, he rose from his seat of status and cracked the whip in his hand against the floor. This whip was not only heavy, but it was also full of long spikes that gave it a grim look.

Only an Alpha king possessed this ilk of whip, for it was also a symbol of his power and status and his pledge to uphold justice. The cracking of the whip on this special occasion meant that he required our undying loyalty and submission.

I joined the others in chorusing: "We swear on our lives to remain loyal to you, Alpha King."

"Rise," my brother finally said, and I rose in concert with the others.

Jenna was by my side, outfitted in a gorgeous peach gown. She looked even more beautiful today; I bet my brother couldn't wait to call her up to the stage.

"Keisha, I'm really nervous," she suddenly mindlinked me while my brother was busy addressing the pack, promising to lead them to greater heights.

I turned to her and held her hand, a warm smile gracing my lips. "Don't worry, dear, you'll be fine." I reassured her via mindlink and she nodded.

Her eyes though, could barely contain her excitement. I was genuinely happy for her. I hoped I find my soulmate soon.

I would be turning 20 next month, but I'd still not found my mate. Seeing others younger than me find their mates and display affection in the pack, I couldn't help also be a little jealous.

'Moon goddess, please, let me find my mate before my birthday, I beg you,' I wished in my heart before paying attention to the Alpha's address.

Finally came the part I was waiting for the most— the time for my brother to pick a Luna.

I gently nudged Jenna. "Bestie, brace yourself, you're going up the stage soon," I mind-communicated.

"I know. But... my heart is thumping so much, I feel it wants to leap out of my chest," she mindlinked back, prompting me to let out a small chuckle.

"That's normal. Take a deep breath," I instructed, and she did as I told her. Repeatedly.

"I'm still a little uneasy," she telepathed after the 4th time.

"Stage fright is reasonable, but don't worry, Jenna. Shortly, you'll find yourself wrapped in his warmth, and any lingering jitters will fade away."

"Thank you, dear. What would I do without you?" she held my arm, finally smiling at me.

My brother's next words drew our attention all at once. He was now standing, exuding the aura of a ruler.

"The maiden who will henceforth occupy the position of the pack's Luna is... "

He looked in our direction, or more particularly, at Jenna. The latter nervously held my arm tighter, trying not to act on her urge to run up to the stage.

The Alpha pointed in her direction with a loving gaze, "... my mate... the daughter of the pack's official Gamma, Cassandra Wilther!"