Chapter 7 - Spring’s First Light
Winter finally loosened its icy grip on the northern territories as March rolled in, bringing with it the slow, steady thaw of melting snow and the first vibrant green shoots of spring breaking through the dark soil.
Inside Bornkeep Castle, the heavy, oppressive gloom that had lingered since Alpha Richard’s death was entirely gone, replaced by the vibrant energy of a new era.
In the grand hall, young Arthur stood before the assembled council—now thoroughly vetted, loyal, and cleansed of corruption—delivering his very first official decree regarding the southern trade and medical infrastructure.
Rosaline watched from the side of the dais, a quiet, proud smile gracing her lips. She wore a deep emerald gown woven from fine silk and wool, perfectly suited for both a healer and a future queen.
As the council meeting adjourned and the lords filed out, a pair of strong, familiar arms wrapped around her waist from behind, pulling her gently against a warm, solid chest.
"You look entirely too proud of yourself, my queen," Kalin murmured against her ear, his breath warm against her neck.
Rosaline leaned back into his embrace, tilting her head up to meet his molten gray-silver eyes. "I have every right to be proud. Arthur just negotiated a twenty-percent reduction in grain tariffs without losing a single medicinal import. He’s going to make a phenomenal Alpha."
"And you," Kalin added softly, his fingers gently tracing the faint silver scars on her wrists, "are going to make a legendary Luna. Though... I hope you haven't forgotten that we still have a rather important matter to settle."
Rosaline raised an eyebrow, a playful spark dancing in her emerald eyes. "And what matter is that, Alpha King?"
"Our wedding," Kalin replied instantly, his tone leaving absolutely no room for debate. "We spent the winter securing borders, hunting traitors, and stabilizing packs. Now that the snow has melted, the northern territories are going to throw a celebration that poets will write about for a thousand years. And you are going to stand beside me as my equal and my queen."
Rosaline’s heart fluttered, a rush of pure warmth washing over her. She reached up, framing his strong jaw with her hands.
May you like
"Only if I get to design the ceremonial healing oils and pick the music," Rosaline teased softly.
Kalin smiled—that rare, breathtaking smile reserved only for her—and pressed his lips to hers in a tender, lingering kiss that promised a lifetime of shared strength, unbreakable loyalty, and deep, enduring love.
