Svelton chief Ciaran

" Have you sent the letter? "

" Yes chief... " the messenger, Yokal, also the chief's younger brother bowed " Prince Gamon has read it but he did not believe it... he has asked it to be burnt ..."

Ciaran waved his hand as if dismissing his soldier's concern " He will be at moon tribe before nightfall...."

" But, he asked the message to be burned and forgotten..."

" Because, he will investigate it himself...it involves his dearest brother afterall..."

" Chances are slim dema(chief)... why did you stop me from twisting his neck when I got perfect chande? " Yokal gritted his teeth " only your orders kept him alive..or I would have twisted his neck! "

" and we will have our revenge brother.... we will bath Svensi ( Svelton goddess) with our enemy's blood. "

Yokal grinned maliciously, displaying his pointy, sharp canines " I can't wait brother..."

Chief patted Yokal's head " Just a little while, my brother...just a little while more."

,.........

Prince Gamon's chambers

Gamon sat with his kins, deep in discussion

" Prince, the letter is surely forged. " one of his kin said. " our moon tribe can never harm anyone belonging to royal clan."

Gamon was thinking same ... Moon tribe considers it their duty and life motto to protect the royal line.

but one line of the letter struck a cord in his mind, repeatedly. The writer had laid a solid  claim. — If you don't believe me...here is the proof — moon tribe is housing an ankeneh, which they aim to use to decimate Royal house of Rojanapats.

Ankeneh, Commonly known as wolf dragon—has now reduced to legend— a myth. But, there are ancient records in library, stating — Ankeneh existed.

They were dragon wolf hybrid — with dragon powers, enormous wings and wolf body with dagger sharp claws.
Fiercely protective and loyal to their clan— they were extremely possesive of their homeland  and mate— they were a force to be reckoned when challenged.

Their only weaknesses were their need for blood to sustain and their chosen mates.
Ankeneh mated for life, but their mates were not destined— they chose the one they fell in love with.
It is said that other species took advantage of this — they lured Ankeneh and mated with them , only to gain power— and support of ankeneh — who would create havoc on whatever posed threat to their mates— whether right or wrong.
Once the mate was killed, ankeneh , no matter how strong never survived more than a week — succumbing to grief or insanity. It was their defence instinct to protect mate( whether good or evil at all cost) . Many a times, even after the death of human body, Ankeneh spirit came back to reign disaster upon the  killers of their mates.
It led to enormous powers falling in many wrong hands and thus many deaths,  many wars, and finally everything culminated into establishment of great organization — Shinawatra (one who does good) — who indiscriminately hunted Ankeneh — leading them to extinction.

The letter said that,
Chief of moon tribe is planning to mate with the ankeneh, in three days, since it matures this blue moon.
After the mating, he will have ankenh's elemental abilities — and its infinite strength — he intends to destroy the royal house of Rojanapats. For chief knows that moon tribe had asked for royal intervention from Prince Gamon , who was then leading a peace treaty between svelton nation and Rojanapat nation.  Nation was more important than few individuals. If sacrificing a few got him peace between these two constantly warring nations— Gamon was ready to sacrifice.

Since Gamon had then refused to personally infiltrate svelton borders or send any militia — chief Suthiluck holds House of Rojanapats responsible for his plight.

" The letter said , the chief of moontribe is planning this." Another kin countered. " May be our tribe doesn't know."

" Chief is a good man , he would never do this. " Another Kin glared.

" We don't know if he has really planned anything or not " Prince's chief advisor, spoke for first time in this long course of discussion " As you said, we do know that he is skilled warrior and strategist and possesses tremendous mental strength. A wolf who can fight and kill more than thirty sveltons , after bearing arduous torture is not ordinary at all.
He may or may not be holding the prince responsible.
Now, it does not seem a coincidence that Prince perawat was poisoned by unidentified poison , shot by unknown person — and chief of Moontribe being a great healer with exceptional talent for poison healing. "

" What do you mean ? " Gamon asked.

" The matter needs investigation — we can't take a decision without a thorough investigation. We should send a small troop — capable of rescuing Prince perawat and eliminating any danger in the path. "

" Prepare twenty men— I will lead the troop." Gamon ordered.

" But, Prince, we cannot have two direct contenders of throne at one place— especially a dangerous one. "

" Prince Perawat is fourth in line " Gamon said strictly " If something happens to me — my son is still in the palace. He will lead the nation. "

The advisor bent his head in defeat. Gamon gritted his teeth. He loved his brother to death — but only he was real heir to the throne and after him his son would fill the throne.

..........

Moontribe

The kins and toota were already gone.
Alpha looked at him innocently
" I just needed to see you. "

Prachaya shook his head at Prince's mischief " I need to prepare for the festival, alpha. "

" I need to assist you in preparing " Alpha promptly replied.

"You are a prince! "

" I order you — Give me some chores. "

" You can't order me on my land! "

" Then I beg you — "

" Please, prince ..understand the situation. You can't be seen doing menial work. And right now...I dont have any chore that will suit your status. "

" Any chore will do. "

"Why are you so adamant on it? "

Prince raised a brow " You really want to know the reason? "

" Y..es " Pracahaya hesitantly said.

" do you really? " Prince challenged, wiggling his eyebrows.

Pracahya sighed, giving up..." No, I don't . I already know, you will create more choas than discipline. "

" I won't...promise. " Prince instantly locked their pinkies.

" Fine...you will have your chores. Come..."

Alpha instantly jumped to his feet and trailed behind the chief like a lost puppy.

" So, what am I doing ? Since you don't know, let me tell you, I am an excellent partner to have. You can trust me to do any task. "

" Let me think, alpha — " Prachaya said, already fed up.

" What is there to think? Assign me any task. "

Prachaya's brow lifted in challenge " Any ? "

" Yep. "Perawat said, confident "I give my best to each and every task given to me, and that is why I am very good at executing any given task. I am telling you— I make best assistant. Why don't you make me your assistant?  "

Prachaya kept listening silently.

" Do you not believe? "

Prachaya smiled " Ofcourse, I do... that is why I am trusting you to most important task. "

" You do ? " perawat straightened himself
" I won't disappoint you. I will be most efficient partner , fast like a wind and  silent— like a shadow. "

" I hope so, alpha " Prachaya opened the room " Here you are."

Perawat's jaw dropped seeing army of little kids— just jumping around and creating havoc.

"What do we need to do here? " Perawat asked, already apprehensive.

"Not us .. You, alpha. " Prachaya smiled
" Here is our most difficult task. To keep this small firecrackers engaged, entertained and protected. "

" But— "

"I am entrusting future of my pack in your hands, alpha " Prachaya tried to smile but knowing he meant it literally, he couldnt muster up enough courage.
He just added "Best of luck, alpha."

And just like that...his omega left him with mini devils.
I will come out leading out these tiny devils, you just see, my omega . Perawat swore.
..........

Leaving the prince in innermost , thus most protected area of pack— the omega headed towards the border to meet his chief enforcer.

Reaching the border, Prachaya renewed the wards, fluidly weaving all the elements together. Anyone having malefic intentions , will encounter deadly traps of vines pulling them in to ditches filled with water and poisonous snakes.

" What news do we have, chief enforcer? " Prachaya asked.

" our friends haven't yet arrived to join the party. " The chief enforcer answered.

" Good. " Prachaya nodded " I have renewed the traps. Keep eyes and ears open. We have two Prince's residing with us, we cannot afford a breach. "

" No svelton will pass the borders, until me and my enforcer have even a single breath left,chief  " Chief enforcer passionately vowed with a closed fist crossed to his heart, all his warriors shouted their agreements through mindlink.

" moontribe is grateful to have you enforcer " Prachaya bowed his head a little in gratitude.

" We are honoured to serve such an exceptional leader and esteemed warrior, chief of moontribe. " Chief enforcer answered instantly.

Prachaya smiled a little in reply " It is your goodness that makes you see great qualities in every one general. "
General smiled a little too, opting to stay silent and let the humble chief have the last word.

"Chief " The enforcer general called Prachaya's attention " I still think prince perawat should know that sveltons could attack. That they do attack every year. "

" No. " Prachaya said sternly. " Prince perawat has nothing to do with yearly attack of Sveltons. Besides, he was mortally wounded in a battle against sveltons, by god's grace poison has been completely flushed out but he is still not fit to fight in a battle. But as soon as he know, he Will be adamant on joining the clash, we can't risk it."

" He is a prince, he understands he needs to be protected. " General argued " I have worked with both the King and prince Gamon, they know when to fight and when to take cover. "

" Difference between Prince Gamon and Prince Perawat is that , Prince Gamon is first a politician and diplomat and then a warrior. Prince Perawat is a warrior through and through. If blood is being spilled in a fight — he prefers it to be his than anyone else's. Once he gets smell of this, it will be impossible to keep him away from battle. "

The General stayed silent .

" Promise me general, no one will leak this to alpha or his kins or prince Tootah. "

" I vow, Chief. " General said reluctantly. He still believed, Prince should be informed.
.............

Perawat stared at the crowd — kids of all age between five to fourteen, Fifteen were gathered here.
" Sawadee " he greeted hesitantly " I am prince Perawat. "

"Is it true that you have never ever lost a battle ? " A kid around ten years old asked.

" Yet ..." Perawat answered.
" Chief says you have mastered every weapon known to us. " A girl offered, looking at him starry eyed. " Can you teach me how to handle knives ? "

" Yeah. " Perawat smiled.

" Chief says you are unparalleled in sword weilding." A thirteen year old said . " I want to duel with you. "

Straight up challenge! Can they be even called kids? But what can anyone except from a martial tribe  where knives and daggers are toys of toddlers. By fourteen, moon tribes warriors are fully trained and by sixteen they serve in to roayal armies.

" He isn't healed yet " Another girl, probably same age glared at the boy.

" Why do you want to duel, Kid ? "

" I want to win courting rights of chief " The boy answered unwavering. " If I win against you, I can tackle anyone. If I did not win, I will definitely gain experience and learn new techniques that will helpp me score a win. "

" What ? " Perawat choked on air. " You are a kid! He is twice your age. "

" I turned fourteen today " The kid answered glaring. " I am mature now. "

"You still have four years to be eligible to mate anyone. "

" I know." THE kid answered calmly. " But, I want to prove myself now... I can wait to be actually mated.

" See, kid."

" Sesha" The boy answered.

" Alpha Sesha " Perawat answered " Let me tell you clearly , abandon that idea. Chief Prachaya has not yet consented to mating anyone , mych less a kid."

" Because, he hasn't found anyone capable yet. When he meets an even greater warrior and wolf, he will want to mate " Another kid , this time a girl stood protectively infront of Sesha " Why do you even care ? "

" Because, I will be the one winning courting rights of your chief and mating him. " Perawat answered without hesitation.

" Are you speaking truth ? " Sesha asked with furrowed brow.

" warrior's promise " perawat crossed his heart " My wolf has chosen your chief as my mate. He will be damned if he had to fight a kid in a challenge arena, to obtain courting rights. . "

" I am not a kid " Sesha growled.

" Yeah.. yeah.." Perawat mocked.

" He is not a kid " All the kid yelled in unison.

Sesha lunged at perawat who grabbed him by throat and threw him on ground " First lesson of warfare kids— never loose your cool. Never give in to your emotions. Cool and calm mindstate is half victory. "

Sesha stood up, looking at perawat with new found respect.
" You are still a kid " Perawat quipped , Sesha frowned at him but did not attack again.

Perawat had already established himself as commander of this impromptu pack.

" Alpha... can you fight with two swords ? " a little girl with piggytails asked, her two big brown eyes hopefully staring at him.

" No..." perawat answered .

" Then, in challenge arena, our chief will show you who is the kid !" Sesha retorted.

" I do not mind, kid" Perawat smirked " I look forward to be shown many things by your chief. "

" Our chief always have two or more than two swords on him. " The little girl said conspirationaly. " He is so fast that we can't even see his blade moving clearly. " .

" Do not worry kid, I will win. " perawat answered confidently.

" I will make you good luck pendant, wear it to the fight " The little girl smiled.

And slowly, the kids opened up to him. Perawat got to know that, Sesha wasn't the only teen or adult trying or aiming to win courting rights of chief. They thought that their chief deserved best and they did try hard . But  none had yet succeeded in winning against the omega leader .

Perawat showed the kids tricks that had him fascinated as a kid.

He was filled in on many traditions of moon tribe. Like right now, the kids were making things that they would offer to holy fire and make wishes for coming years.

Some were making flower wreaths and little wooden figurines and beads to offer the chief— as was the tradition to honour the tribe leader.

Perawat too, learned to make beads and wreaths.

" I will wrap them for you alpha" the kids offered. They were extra helpful since he had offered to stay few more days  and supervise their weapon trainings.

.............

Handing over the band of tiny miscreants to his kin and omega cousin Ai Toot, Perawat finally strolled out in search of his mate— who he hasn't seem in almost 4 hours which felt more like 4 years.

" Because you are whipped perawat! " Toota ribbed over mindlink which perawat had unconsciously left open.

" Oh! I am whipped, mashed and spread all over ...." Perawat agreed shamelessly " just not grinding yet...but soon. "

" Perawat ! " Knot and Prem shouted over mindlink. " We don't want to know ! "

" We do..." Bright countered. " Its our job knowing his business. "

" I draw line at his Dick. " Prem hissed.

" Don't forget you started people ! " perawat reminded them shrugging.

" You have just become horny pest, perawat! " Toota retorted.

"Not horny..just aware of my desires. "

" semantics " Knot teased. 

" You just admitted my point " Toota reasoned..

" Have you seen my omega? How can anyone stay unaffected ? " Perawat shrugged. 

Knot , Prem and Bright knew not to comment.
Only Toota dared replying so much in words " True"

" He is mine, Toot! Ours! " Perawat reminded half growling— half whining.
( his and seang's ) "

" Relax bro " Toota giggled. " Even if moingoddess gives two more eyes to your omega , I am sure those two too will be focused on you only.."

Perawat giggled " I won't mind. "

Toota added softly "No matter how many try to pursue moontribe chief, he doesn't have eyes for anyone else.You are a lucky bastard, alpha" and suddenly his voice changed " I will knock down your big, stupid alpha head if you fall in stupid jealousy trap and ruin your chance. "

" I won't. " Perawat vowed with full confidence.

"Good." Toota smiled. " Now make sure to rub some lavender over your skin, before you meet your omega."

" What ? " Perawat halted

" What kind of comeback was that ?." Knot asked confused.

" He just want Perawat to calm his horses before he meets the omega... " Bright explained in his infinite wisdom. " You know, lavender has relaxation properties.."

" What the hell that has to do with meeting the chief ? " Prem asked confused.

" Because full moon (blue moon ) is close... our libido runs high. " Bright explained sagely.

" Oh..." Knot and Perawat hummed in understanding.

" Alphas..." Toota rolled his eyes " Can you ever think out of your hanging bits ?" Toota grumbled " And no Bright...it doesn't calm your little friends down south... ." Toota turned his focus to Perawat " Your omega must be in high stress due to  upcoming blue moon festival.  Being chief he is responsible for a smooth and enjoyable celebration ...on top of that he is hosting two Prince's....I can only imagine the stress level ! " Toota sighed. " little bit of lavender scent on you will unknowingly relax him a bit and also make him relate you with safety, relaxation and calmness. "

" You are a genius.. Ai Toot ! I could kiss you right now.."

" Keep your mangy claws away alpha " Toota retorted playfully..

" You will find lavenders just thirty or fourty paces to south east of where you are " Knot provided helpfully.

"Roll in it. " Bright encouraged.

" Yeah..more scent more relaxation. " Prem encouraged.

" Don't you dare " Toota warned sharply
" We are going for subtlety fool heads ! "

" We are warriors, not diplomats " Bright retorted "

And with that Perawat ledt their fruends to argue, he closed the mindlink before finding the patch of lavender. He gently rubbed petals on his pulse points and also secured a small bunch for his omega. How can he go empty handed ?
He would have caught a small Game as a gift before meeting his omega. But he doesn't think his omega being a vegetarian , would appreciate the gift.

Perawat wandered a little in the lanes of moon tribe. He was missing something. Seeing a mangkut (mangosteen fruit), his lips automatically split in a grin. He ran his eyes over trees in orchard. There was Longlan (Litchi like fruit) .  He must take these for his omega. Besides Mang—kut (Queen of fruits/ here represents omega )  being called the soulmate of Durian (King of fruit/ here represents a dominant alpha ) — he had strong desire to see that beautiful rosy hue bloom on his omega's cheek when he presents him this juicy deliciousness.

Making his mind, Perawat marched towards the tree. He had climbed just four five inch — that a voice startled him.
" Snake..." Someone shouted.
Perawat loosened his grip on tree and fell on his behind.

Lek's boisterous laughter rang in his ears.

" What are you doing here alpha? " his omega's muffled laugh reached him next

Sitting on his ass...Perawat frowned at mischievous teen . " There's no snake...."

" I said sneak..." Lek told him cheekily " Aren't you sneaking in our gardens ? "

" I'm not ..." Perawat crossed his arms before his chest and lifted his nose high in air , in what he thought looked intimidating.

" I was just helping myself to some fruits. "

" Were you hungry, alpha ? "

" I wanted to bring some fruits for you..." Perawat answered.

Lek crossed his hands over his chest
" From our own tree? "

" Lek ! " Prachaya chided the unruly omega " Is this how we thank our guest for his thoughtfulness ? And did you forget he is prince of these lands ? That we are his subjects " Prachaya glared "He can have anything he sets his eyes on.... Everything on these lands belong to him..."

Lek raised a brow " Everything ? "

" Yes..." Prachaya replied, fiercely. " Every single thing "

" As you say chief " lek saluted the healer
" Then..." Lek smirked at the alpha "I am leaving.  Good afternoon alpha..."

" What...why are you leaving  ? " Prachaya asked flustered. " We still need to discuss about — "

"Oh..i am just clearing his obstacle... with your express permission phi..." Lek winked at alpha " You don't even need to perform chase ... our chief is already yours"

" Lek! " Prachaya chided, high pitched.

" One and only " Lek grinned mock saluting the chief and hightailed out of there.

.......

" So..." Perawat's lips twitched in a small smile " Everything I set my eyes upon is mine , huh ?"

Prachaya blushed and instantly dipped his head low to hide his face " I... that just came out without thought ! "

" So, you didn't mean it when you said that these lands and everything it has to offer belongs to me ? "

" No...no.. i didn't mean that...."

" No? "

"No... I mean yes...yes..everything is yours. You are our prince after all . Everything is yours..."

" even you ? "

" Yes ...even me— what? " Prachaya's gaze snapped at alpha who was grinning like a Cheshire cat. " alphaaaa..." he groaned, almost whining. 

Perawat chuckled. " Yes, my love. "

With red tinged ears, Prachaya adorably  glared at the alpha. " You are a menace.. "

Perawat smiled " If menace be I must...let me be menace of your sorrows and challenges. "

Prachaya shook his head at the alpha " Such a slick tongue " he murmured.

Perawat grinned " guilty as charged. Sit here yord– rak, let me bring some mang-kut for you. "

" Alpha... there's no need."

" Why ? I want to get mangkut for my omega...or do you not like mangkut? "

" I do. "

" Then, let me pick Some for you. " 

" Have you climbed a tree before alpha ? "

Perawat grinned " The reason orchards have highest walls in royal city is your alpha... me, ai Toot and may used to raid our nobles gardens and orchards. "

" But, why you have to raid them? They must present you the bestest fruit if you express the wish.."

" True that my omega..." Perawat replied expertly climbing the tree " But I liked causing mischief and Ai Toot would only eat mangkuts I picked for him. He says, I pick best ones " Perwat was already busy in picking ripe ones. He wasn't able to see Prachaya's eyes flashing blue or tge frown that graced his lips.
...........

Perawat picked tons of mangkut from the tree and sat with his omega. He started peeling the fruit and offering it to his omega to eat.

" I ...I can peel , alpha.." Prachaya offered, awkwardly.

" I know yord-rak. But, you don't have to. I want to peel it for you. Unless, you do not like the idea— "

" No...No..." Prachaya answered alarmed, " it's just that, you are an alpha prince..."

Perawat relaxed, hearing the reason ." Worry not, my omega. Neither we are breaking any royal etiquette nor would it malign my status as a prince. "

Prachaya's tense shoulder visibly relaxed. Perawat smiled at the thoughtfulness of the omega. " Do you know, my great grandmother was from south, not at all familiar our cuisine or way of life. My great grandfather on his visit to south had secretly asked the recepies and even learnt few simple dishes that he taught to our cooks . And ordered them to cook for her mate. "

Pracahaya smiled .

" And my grandfather had never won a Makruk (Thai traditional chess) round against my grandmother. He says, he may be alpha of nation, our grandmother was alpha of his heart. "

Prachaya smiled warmly.

" My Mae loves mangosteens too, and my por always picks the first fruits of season for her. "

"Warm heart is a family trait of yours" Prachaya commented, putting the seed on quickly growing pile of seed and rind of mangosteen.

" Trust me, it's very strictly maintained trait . " Perawat chuckled rememvering " Few years back, my Phi, Phi Gamon, was able to find the ring (part of bridal chamber games) and he dared tease my sister in law about it. Mae and Por gave him earful for it. According to my por — Phi should have give it to his mate secretly. And my mae just yelled at him that this was not challenge ground to flaunt like a baboon after winning. "
Prachaya couldn't hold the chuckle at Baboon analogy

" Trust me, he hasn't started intentionally loosing in games like my por but he didn't dare flaunt his win in single game against my sister in law since then..." Perawat laughed rembering Gamon's ashen face. His brother has always been competitive, and too proud, especially after winning.

" You know what my father said when I told them to let brother be ? "

Prachaya looked at the alpha, in question.

" He said, we already lose our heart to our mates. Now how dare we win anything against them and be happy? Even if we rejoiced over empty wins — we cannot be truly happy for our source of joy— our heart is already theirs. Our win is their win, their is ours. It is not just two bodies uniting at mating, but two hearts— weaving a single thread to their beat. It is two lives— entwining to be one. And only he remains happy who understands this secret that even if we now look two— we have one existence in two bodies. Thus, one win, one loss.
Now, only way we can win is to win together — against the world. Not against each other. "
Perawat handed Prachaya another juicy delight— neatly peeled — ready to be devoured.

" It just stuck with me somehow. Most of my life is spent on battlefield yord-rak. For many coming years, battlefield will be part of my life. But, whenever I have moments like these— where I am just your alpha, I would like to win the world with you. I would like to — " The alpha suddenly swallowed and remained silent . Quietly peeling the fruit, admiring the smile gracing omega's lips.

He knew moon tribes omegas were more independent comparing to mainland omegas. Instead of finding these little things romantic, his omega may find it clingy and unnecessary, yet he couldn't control in endulgubg in his natural instincts of providing for his omega.

" You know, I am just practicing to lose to my heart, so I won't get scolded by my por on our marital night ( bridal chamber games) games. " he teased.

" Alphaaa! " The omega hurriedly swallowed, eyes widening as saucers.

Such a simple gesture of being able to feed was making his heart swell with all Kind of emotions, especially when his omega kept stealing glances of him whenever he thought his alpha was engrossed in peeling.

Perawat handed prachaya a peeled fruit and busied himself in peeling another, while his omega was staring at him in wonder. As soon as he lifted his head to address him, Prachaya ducked his head, pretending to be busy on munching.

" I am yours, yord–rak" Perawat said cheekily, " stare all you want. "

Prachaya's ears turned red , still he stutterd... " I was not staring at you."

" Why ? Do you not find me attractive ? " Perawat stared at the omega, giddily awaiting the answer .

" ....." Prachaya nodded with a little dip of his head.

Perawat folded his hands infront of his chest and stared sternly at the omega.
" I don't believe you..."

" Why ? " The omega asked surprised.

" If you really would have found me attractive, wouldn't you be staring at me, like I do , every chance I get? "

" Alphaaa....." Perawat whined , instantly blushing red, his lashes dipped.
Prachaya bit his lips, fingers shaking a little while his palm started sweating.  Gathering courage, he lifted his gaze at the laughing alpha and forced himself to keep staring. He didn't want his alpha to misunderstand that he does not find him attractive.

His own breath hitched as the alpha's laugh froze— slowly melting to enigmatic smile. He gulped as Alpha's stare intensified. Prachaya shivered like a lone leaf in storm, yet, hypnotised by the swirling flames of amber in his alpha's eyes, he kept staring— watching as the wolf roused, yellow flakes slowly started peeking in alpha's gaze.

Seeing Saeng (Perawat's wolf) peeking through alpha's eyes, Prachaya had strong urge to drop his gaze and bare his neck — show his submission, his appreciation to the alpha wolf spirit.
But he didn't want the human side to misunderstand. Right now, it looked like alpha was not aware of syncing with his inner beast — his devotion to the human side kept him fixed — trapped.  He became willing prisioner of twin amber flaked pools that were alpha's eyes — captivated— his human and omega spirit warred within — one side pushing him to submit and another begging him to keep looking.

Alpha was looking at him like he stared at moon —stupied, amazed, worshipping, praising. The moon which although had no light of it's own— outshines the thousands of stars in night sky. That is what his alpha's unblinking stare reminded him of — that although he had thousand flaws, rough patches and dark side — his alpha desired him more than any star.

Despite the reality of world trying to chain him through, Prachaya's heart soared in the skies like it had wings.

The alpha leaned forwards— slowly, as if he himself was unaware of his move— like iron to magnet, moth to flame — making Prachaya more nervous than before. His throat was parched, lips suddenly dry. He unconsciously tilted his head back— baring a portion of his throat to the alpha — eyes wide open.

Perawat clenched his jaw as the omega licked his lip, most probably out of nervousness. His canines elongated, eyes followed the moist path the tittle cherry tip of omega's tongue was creating— from one corner of mouth to another.
His ears flattened against his head , his tongue yearned to lave over the moistened path. Strange urge to dominate filled every pore of his body — his wolf was already providing him detailed visual of his desires — he wanted to pin the omega against the trunk of very tree they were resting their back against. He wanted to bury his fingers in onyx locks and pull the beautiful head back and sink in to the creamy flesh — to paint the mark of his claim. His blood rushed to south, making his trousers tighten at crotch.

An urgent ache filled his canines — his eyes fixed at the juncture of neck and shoulder— the marking spot omega had so beautifully bared to him.

His clenched fist barely able to help him keep his restrain. Especially in the face of this sweet submission— like right now— his omega was presenting his throat while staring right in to his sole .

Perawat forcibly pulled his gaze back, breaking the moment "Have mercy on me... What are you doing to me, my omega ? " Perawat murmured.

"Huh ? " his omega titled his head other way, looking innocently at him.

And this innocence just added to the omega's appeal. Perawat lifted his fingers and gently traced the spot he would mark as soon as he proved himself worthy.

" I should go now omega, "

" Why? " Prachaya's eyes widened as soon as he realised his complaining tone. He hung his head in embarrasment.

Perawat chuckled. " I should go now, unless you want this moment to be our marking moment and this tree – our mating spot." Perawat placed his fingers under omega's chin and raised his head " Or is it what you want. " he asked meeting omega's stare.

Prachaya couldn't swallow his gasp at the scandalous suggestion. A major part of his heart leapt at alpha's suggestion. Seeing his turmoil — corner of alpha's lips tugged up. 

" Allow me to take my leave yord-rak " Perawat dragged his feet two-three steps back

" Where are you going? " the question spilled through Prachaya's lips.

" To give rest of these to Ai Toot.." Perawat informed. And Prachaya's eyes flashed blue " I am still feeling little hungry alpha...." Duang(Prachaya's wolf) has roused.

" Oh...let me peel more for you..." Perawat happily started peeling more.

Steaming in jealousy, Prachaya dared to boldly put a piece against alpha's mouth.
" You too have it alpha"
Smiling mischievously, alpha not only accepted the fruit but his finger too— even going as far as biting the fleshy tip.
Prachaya pulled his hand back but didn't dare offer any more to the alpha. He just orally urged the alpha to eat.

" Alpha, " The healer called, remembering , he had urgent matter to discuss. " I had a robe made for you for the blue moon — it's as per moon tribe tradition " the omega explained hesitantly " to help you assimilate— " Prachaya stopped abruptly.
Thinking he was going too far. Although, it will make alpha give a good impression — doesn't mean alpha has to accept it. Beside, being the prince— he did not need to make an impression.

" I am honored, Yord—rak. I am looking forward to wear it. " Alpha's eyes shone with excitement, putting the omega at ease. The omega chief munched some more on fruits, only able to gather courage for his next sentence after all the mangosteens were eaten and there was nothing to help him stall the matter any further. 

" Ceremonial robes of moon tribe are too tedious to wear, I will arrange — "

" Don't worry, chief — Toota had already agreed to help me for blue moon Ceremonial preparations. " Perawat replied, again expertly climbing the tree.

" Why are you climbing the tree again, alpha ? "

" To pick fruits for Ai Toot" Perawat replied. And this time Pracahya growled— not even caring to suppress the sound.

" I am heading back alpha..." he turned, taking long paces. His ears register the muted sound of jump behind him, but he kept walking away.

" Wait ..." the alpha ran behind him. Catching him, he turned the omega and tucked lavender springs on a front pocket of his robe. " It will help you keep calm. Have a nice day, my omega..."

Before the omega could reply— or stay quiet in this case. His spine straightened hearing the warning howl.

The warning bell started ringing soon..

"Breach on eastern border..." Prachaya's back straightened as soon as the alarmed warning rang over mindlink. " It's imperial army along with Prince Gamon. "

" What happened, my dearest ? What worries you ? " Perawat asked, concerned.  Prachaya did not respond.

" I can smell sveltons..." The western peripheral enforcer informed. " But no movement. "

" Same chief " The southern patrol commander informed. " But they are not advancing. "

"Don't attack the royal army.  I am fortifying the borders...no bloodshed unless its our last resort.I will join you at border after I escort both the princes to safety..."

" Aye... chief " All the four leaders of enforcers said.

" Take the children, pregnant and non warrior inside the packhouse...." Prachaya mindlinked the enforcers responsible for internal security.
Then, he turned to the alpha.

" is there an attack ? " Perawat asked. " I can smell cautiousness and worry thickening in air. "

" My alpha " the omega cupped his alpha's face to pin his attention on himself " You must stay inside the packhouse . No matter what happens, you won't risk your life. Promise me....please"

" No..." Perawat growled. " I am a warrior and prince of these people. I cannot let the tribe fend for itself. "

" We are martial tribe. Sworn to protect the royal line. I as their chief and as your moon tribe omega cannot let you walk in to danger.
You must stay hidden my Prince, if a single hair on your head will be harmed, I will slit my throat with my own hands."

" Omega..." Alpha growled , his eyes red, wolf struggling to break the restrain his human part had put on him.

" Don't be enraged my alpha..." Prachaya placed his trembling lips on Perawat's forehead " I am bound by my duty so are you. Be safe alpha. "

" How can you ask me to send you to battlefield? How can you ask to send my omega into thick of danger and bloodshed? Knowing anything could happen to you? "

" Do you trust their skills more than mine , my alpha? Did you forget that your omega had put both his blood and sweat to become your kin, your protector.....And when moon goddess had presented me with this chance, can you not grant me this little happiness, your highness? "

Perawat clenched his jaw " Ask me anything else, my love. Ask me for my life— I will lay it at your feet. Don't  ask me for this. Never ask me for this. "

" We are warriors, my alpha. It is our duty to fight. Battle fields are our homes and weapons our decor. I am not merely protecting you, my alpha. You are strongest and most skilled among us , If our defences fell, I am trusting you to keep our tribe and its members safe. Sveltons had dared to lay hands on kids of moon tribe before, make sure their claws are pulled before reaching our tribe pups. "

" Selflessness has been a virtue I admired in a Wolf and warrior. But, I am hating it right now" Perawat's throat clogged as wave of emotions hit him in the chest
" Why aren't you a little selfish, my omega?"

Prachaya smiled ruefully " I am selfish, my alpha.  Promise me, no kid will be taken today from moon tribe. "

" None under my watch, my love. "

" Promise me they will die before they will be even able to think of it."

" Their souls will fear ever taking another birth."

Prachaya smiled " Thank you, my alpha."
He pulled out the jade pin from his hair
" Safekeep it for me alpha. And ask your question in words when I return... I do not understand language of flowers, nor do I know your royal etiquettes. Give me boquet of words, and " he placed the jade pin in alpha's hands "put it in my hairs before my tribe" His eyes glazed a little, shimmering with unshed tears. It may be his last meeting with the alpha.
Sveltons had them surrounded, Prince Gamon Was at Eastern border— his goal will not be only to defeat the sveltons
It will also be to keep the crown heir and two Prince's safe.

" Your wishes are my commands, yord— rak. " Alpha answered putting the pin in his hidden pocket .

Now, when the time was to part, had the sudden realisation hit him. He had lost his heart to the annoying, unruly yet most caring alpha he had ever met. Now their paths were one. Their only win— against the world. He couldn't part without letting the alpha know that his most wildest dreams have been answered. That he (the alpha) — was answer of his dreams, his decades long yearning , his most secret desires...
Prachaya took a deep breath and third time in short span of this afternoon, he was stammering pouring the words out of his heart

" I am thankful to mother moon alpha. Within short span of time, she had given me everything I desired for my life. Maybe just for one day, I get to be your kin. She  has blessed me with your affections, I do not desire anything else...all my wishes are answered in your form. "

Perawat grabbed hus shoulders , glaring " Why are you so easily pleased? So easily content ?
You must desire. Desire more, my love. If not for yourself, then for me. I beg you. Desire more. Wish more. Demand more.
Even if you do not. I will..." Perawat hid the omega in his embrace "I have just met you. There is so much left to do.
I intend to court you, chase you and win your mating rights my omega. I intend to mate you, I intend to duel you— in field and our mating bed. I intend to be made love to, as you do your sword, I intend to be cared as passionately as you do for your herbs. I intend to make you laugh with joy until corner of your eyes dampen with tears. I intend to tease you until you are so mad at me that your cheek flame that beautiful shade of red.
I intend to memorize the colour of your eyes, the shape of your lips, the mole on your back, the chiming of your laugter — there is so much left to do, my love.
I am yet to lose our mating night games. Yet to peel a mountain of mangosteens for you.
You are yet to accompany me to that run you promised. You are yet to braid my hairs on our mating night as you offered. There is so much more left to do , my love. So much more...."

" Alpha... " listening to the pained call, alpha gathered himself and his emotions. "

" This is the only time I am entertaining your wish to court the danger my omega. From tonight, you shall promise to only court me.  "

Prachaya smiled " Thank you, my alpha. "

Perawat sniffed and then frowned at himself . It was hus first time to experiemce onslaught of this severe emotions. He pulled out his silver dagger and handed it to omega.
" Be back as I am sending you to battle, yord-rak — victorious and unharmed. If you dare get harmed by anyone, you are signing their death warrants. Come back soon. I am waiting...We have a mating run to be performed. "

Prachaya smiled " As my alpha commands. "

" Let the victory be yours. Blessed be " Perawat wished.
" Blessed be" Prachaya answered.

Perawat trembled from sheer force of resisting to take the omega by force and hide him somewhere safe. His omega...his mate, walking in to the battle field without him...was unfathomable to both his wolf and him.
But they trusted and respected their mate — both as their omega and skilled warrior.
Perawat did understand Prachaya's obligations to his tribe and Royal house of Rojanapat but he was ready to shoulder all for Prachaya if it meant keeping him safe.

" I must take your leave, my alpha..." the omega reluctantly took a step back.

I must take your leave. It sounded ominous...like a good bye...' I don't allow you to' the alpha within him raged.
It was the last straw for Perawat.

He grabbed the omega by his nape and claimed his lips in a searing, possesive kiss. Not giving time to the omega to catch his breath or reciprocate. Reminding him who was alpha.  More wolf than human, his eyes glowed red, while canines descended " I am not allowing you to take my leave " Perawat growled " ever..."

He buried his nose against alpha's neck , taking deep breaths, inhaling sweet scent of his omega to calm himself.

" You have promised me to be mine, to bear my name and my claim. You are not allowed to take my leave ever, omega. Do not say those ominous words ever... "

" Alpha...I must go to the borders— "

" Yes...I understand " Alpha replied hoarsely "  I am just lending you to the battlefield for few hours. You will return to me after that. Promise me? "

" I promise, my alpha. "

"  Go," Peraawat kissed his omega's forehead, a silent tears fell on omega's cheeks, searing straight through his heart. " Go" Alpha whispered " Go, before I change my mind. "

" Remember your promise, alpha. You will stay hidden and unharmed. " The omega reminded.
..............

Prachaya mind linked his deputy, Janis .
He took out the ring he was given as Chief of the tribe and put it in the hole in mangosteen's trunk. " With this seal, I announce you as our leader, Janis " he exclaimed. " I am placing safety, security and future of our tribe in your care, Beta Janis. Take care of our pack..."

"Lena...I give you the onus of healer of moon tribe..."

" Chief ...no..." The Beta and Lena cried. " You are still our leader . "

" Today, I can't shoulder so many responsibilities. Help me na... Today, Let me just be enforcer of our tribe... " And kin of my alpha.
" Forgive me moon goddess" Prachaya looked solemnly at the sky " I will have to pick a sword today. "

" Lek...Bring my swords.... Yai ...you must stay hidden at all cost..." Prachaya shrugged green robes of healer. A healer never kills ...no matter what. He can't be a healer and warrior at the same time.

Lek came running with Pracahaya's swords and black robe. Prachaya robed himself in black ensemble and strapped one sword at waist and another on shoulder.

" Let Victory be yours...blessed be.  " Lek wished, throat clogged.

Prachaya smiled " Blessed Be. "
And towards the battle field he walked– with his swords strapped on his back. He missed the comforting weight of the Jade pin.
Turning back towards the direction of pack house , he murmured the words he couldn't gather the courage to speak out loud.
" Whether in life or death— I am yours, my alpha. "

.........................

A/N : Initially I wanted to publish a double update— aftermath of battle together with this chapter. But this chapter turned too long...I wasn't able to write everything that I wanted in it.

As a reader myself, I would be really sad so let me just give you a spoiler alert—
I will just say...no major character is dying in this battle...so cheer up...don't be sad.
And,there is beautiful advancement of their relationship in next chapter so look forward to it na...