Hello my lovelies,

Never in my days did I think this would take more than 12 months to be updated!!! I am so, so very sorry for all of you that have waited patiently for me to pull my head out of my ass.

The last 12 months have been an absolute rollercoaster, I lost my best friend and my sanity, which has been followed by disaster after disaster. I've definitely lost my way, the good news now is that things are on the mend and authonim is trying. I really hope that this update is everything you want, and I'm excited to hear what you think of this.

You all deserve medals for the support. ❤️❤️❤️❤️

Baekhyun's POV.
The sounds of his screaming is lost amongst the chaos that erupts around him the moment he sees his majestic mate crumple to the ground. His wolf is agitated and whining, almost desperate to break his control, he longs to become his wolf but knows it's a bad idea. Instead of placating his wolf he's moving before his brain can form any coherent command, ignoring his never ending tears and the instant retaliation of the pack that's now his family.

He can hear the echo of commands, the drawing of weapons, snarls and snapping of teeth from those who have become their wolfs. The rustling of the fabric and the cry's of the young cubs, just adds to the drama happening around him.

However it all drowns out as he has one goal in mind to reach his alpha, he's so ashamed of himself for not being able to articulate any kind of warning to his most beloved mate. Chanyeol has always been there for him both in their link and as the one to protect him, yet in a moment of dire need all he's been able to do is scream. Shame like no other laces through him, it's almost deafening the silence of their always flowing link. He may not feel that intense flow of emotions between them but an echo is there, he clings to that echo as he pushes as much soothing and calming love as he can. Hoping in the desperate part of his heart and link that his beloved mighty alpha will feel it.

It takes him literally seconds but those seconds feel like hours to reach his unconscious mate, he's panicking and his heart beats erratically like he can feel the pain of his alpha in his own heart. Yes he's seen this alpha take on multiple wolves at once to keep him safe, and his magnificent wolf form tear through skin like butter, so too see his alpha so vulnerable hurts his heart as he listens to his wolf pine for the reassurance they both need. He's not war trained but he's beyond confused over how someone not of the pack was able to sneak in, resulting in the arrow sticking out of Chanyeol's shoulder at a 45 degree angle. He whimpers at the pool of blood already soaking through Chanyeol's royal blue silk tunic. The only reason he's not gone totally insane is the faint echo of the ever present unwavering love in their link, running along the vestiges of Chanyeol's fury.

Something like this shouldn't have bought his might alpha down, his inexperience in these kind of situations is so apparent. He can't dwell on that right now, the wolf that has claimed his heart is in dire need of him, and he will be that pillar of strength. First he needs to ensure his mighty mate of his presence, and prays to the moon goddess that Chanyeol can sense him, and it offers whatever comfort he can. he may want nothing more than  to feel the waves of soothing intense love and for Chanyeol to call him by his sweet moniker. The lack of anything more than an echo of just makes his tears fall harder, as he places his hands over his mates heart.

Alpha if you can hear me, I love you, heart and soul we are one. I'm right here beside you, yearning for your voice to tell me it's ok, waiting for your mighty wolf to awaken.

Beakhyun has to hold in his emotions and sobs back as he takes in his mates appearance, his pallor that is normally a beautiful clear almost olive tone is pale, his alpha's chest rises and falls as someone clearly in agony. His mate's brow is taught with clear pain too, Beakhyun quickly and mentally says a prayer to the moon goddess before gently cupping his alpha's cheek. A brief moment of calm aa he doesn't feel a fever is short lived, as he gets a whiff of a scent that's not Chanyeol's normal seductive earthy scent. It's a sweet mint like smell, with a clear and sour scent that could be hydrangea petal oil, and something else that he's never smelled before.

Baekhyun hisses slightly when he touches his alphas chest, the skin surrounding that arrow is almost scorching, he's not had much training in the art of healing but the burn on Chanyeol's chest is definitely a  result of poison. Anger ripples through his body, this was clearly premeditated, something that makes his blood run cold. He needs to alert Daichi and Sehun, and the elders right now.

He's been so focused on his mate he's tuned out the chaos that has erupted around him, nor has he noticed the ring of wolves in human form standing shoulder to shoulder in a ring of almost impenetrable protection around them. He manages to calm the whimpering of his wolf to finally take notice of his surroundings, there's the whiff of blood in the air, yet the tension is so tight in the air it's like a taught bow the slightest tension will have it unfurling and ramifications far reaching. He wants whomever dared enter his pack and defiantly shoot a poison arrow to face deadly consequences.

Something he's sure many of the pack will support, first he must make his mate proud and ensure the entire packs safety and prey the midwife's can cure the poison. He's not been able to form a pack bond yet so has to resort to calling for the two wolves who will know what to do next.

"Daichi, Sehun, I need your assistance! I cannot wake Chanyeol, he's alive I can feel him but he's not responding."

He's trying to get a handle on his emotions and his wolf, he really doesn't need to be seen by this pack as nothing but a young hapless omega. He needs to prove himself, he may be an omega but he's the mate of the Supreme Alpha. He's about to call out again when that ring of protection decides to part like a wave crashing the shore, all  to reveal Daichi in full battle mode. A mode that has his wolf whimpering in absolute submission, he may not have a pack bond but the fury rolling off Daichi is potent and deadly. Those eyes that are normally expressive and filled with wisdom and fondness, are black with rage and laser focus.

Baekhyun however finally aware of his surroundings now can see what's going on outside his ring of protection. Luhan is keeping the few omegas of the pack away from the intruder with the help of Suho and Kungsoo, their retinue of companions in their wolf forms forming an additional line of protection as they stand close to the healing huts. Sehun is the closest wolf to the imposter, save he's not in wolf form like most of the alpha's and beta's of the pack. He's so out of the loop in situations like this that he's confused that no one has pounced on the intruder.

As he surveys the area where he last saw the intruder it dawns on him why there is no one apprehending him. The intruder lays lifeless on the ground, his bow and arrows not far, it's the arrows that Sehun is inspecting. He's not touching the tips but is clear he's discovered what he too knows, that the tips of the arrows are laced with poison.

Sehun then whirls around to face him, his eyes pooling  in concentration, but it's too late he's already seen the hint of terror in Sehun's eyes. Now they reflect what he feels shame at not being able to protect their alpha, not that he blames Sehun he would of done what any mate would of done, and made sure Luhan was safe before anything else.

"I'm sorry to report this Baekhyun and Daichi this intruder is not familiar to me, he's also not directly from the winter pack, he was a paid for hire assassin."

"How is this possible, how could someone not of the pack go so long undetected and get close enough to inflict harm!"

"I will not rest until we find out how this happened Baekhyun, I promise if I find out that anyone did assist in this attack their head will role."

Baekhyun truly wishes that this attack is the end but he fears there will be far more bloodshed ahead and two wolves in particular will take advantage if news gets out the supreme alpha is down. He once again places his hand on his alpha's cheek it's starting to get warm, which makes his wolf whine in his ears. They really need to get Chanyeol out of the open, yet before he can verbalise his thoughts the sound of approaching footsteps make him turn to find Suho the elder approaching. Whom is very quick to bow low as if asking for forgiveness, Baekhyun isn't exactly sure why.

"If I may be so bold, I think we can all guess who's behind the attack, and that the intention of the assassin was always to aim for the supreme Alpha."

Baekhyun looks away from his Alpha to face the elder in front of him, Suho stands regal yet imposing as he voices out what he himself truly didn't want to believe. He shudders at the memory of those hands touching what belonged to his mate, how the scent of death lingered as Yukio dared to sniff at his private claim mark. It further adds to his shame, all he's done is bring drama after drama to Chanyeol and now he's been shot.

"Please Baekhyun, I can feel your despair my son will be fine I promise you. Once that arrow is out and the poison treated he will heal himself."

"This is all because of me, Chanyeol should have left me at the temple, none of this would have happened if he had."

"Baekhyun, I can promise you Chanyeol would take more than arrow for you, you are worthy of his love just as he is of yours. I wish you both could have the peace you deserve right now, however."

"Yukio stops any hope of peace, beacuse of his obsession with me, I'm just an omega."

"A blue omega Baekhyun, and mate of the supreme alpha who loves you, to the point he would happily give up all he has to keep you safe."

"As I love him, we are one Daichi my heart and body belong to Chanyeol only."

"I know your love is strong, as is our resolve this pack will do all they can to protect you."

Baekhyun does feel a small part of the shame he feels start to fade away, Daichi has this calming presence that just manages to reassure him. Yes it would be better to feel more than an echo of love in his link with his alpha. Now they just have to ensure nothing else will go wrong and that Chanyeol will be able to heal himself in private. He still feels very much uneasy with his mate open to any such attack. It's also not the feast he envisioned for Suho's arrival, it makes him anxious that this is all leading up to something more sinister.

"Elder Suho, I'm sorry the feast we prepared for you hasn't gone as planned, that the discussion Chanyeol wish to share with you will now be on hold."

"That truly doesn't matter Baekhyun, what's important is we get the supreme alpha back on his feet, Daichi if I may I will send word to the high temple and insist they send reinforcements, they will take at least four days to arrive but I hope the show of unity will deter whom we know is the likely culprit behind this."

Baekhyun watches as Daichi bows his head in agreement, it doesn't need to be said out loud but it's clear whom is likely behind this. Those words seem to renew the determination within the pack, Sehun already advancing towards members of the pack to ensure the disposable of the dead assassin, as well as ensuring that those not able to assist in keeping the encampment safe are directed to the healing houses.

The healing houses are those furthest from the gates but closet to the olive groves, should anything happen there is a greater chance of the most vulnerable members getting away. He shouldn't be selfish but right now all he wants is to be just that and to concentrate on getting his mate back to the villa where he can heal.

He knows Sehun and Daichi will have the walls and gates reinforced and patrols along the olive grooves, allowing him to fully devote his time to his alpha. He can feel the echo of love but his wolf is still pacing in anxiety. He's no fool he's not going to be able to move Chanyeol alone, but he doesn't need to voice that out as the guard that accompanied Suho are already crouching down to lift Chanyeol from the ground.

Rising to his own feet, he's quick to lead the way to the villa and the private rooms he shares with his alpha. Secretly so very glad that their private chambers don't reek of their intimacy, he wouldn't be able to face Suho if the room smelled like their mating. He's quick to move the fur and silk covers enough for the wolves to gently place his mate on the bed. Daichi is quick to enter with the head midwife healer, and to his relief Jongdae. Both of them quick to approach their alpha and start ripping away his silk tunic from the arrow still lodged in Chanyeol's shoulder.

Baekhyun doesn't want to be apart from his alpha whilst he's as vulnerable as he is, his own wolf is growling art the thought of other's touching his mates naked skin. He knows the midwife and Jongdae need too but it's unsettling to see others touch him in action, and finally understands why his mate needed to leave him whilst he was in the throes of his first ever heat.

He can hear the chatter of Daichi and Suho talking about how the attack was  possible, both of them coming to accept it's the winter clan. Both clearly unhappy to know they won't have the chance to question the assailant on who sent him. The whole afternoons event has made him feel a bit nauseated, both at the encampment being so easily infiltrated and watching Chanyeol scramble across the courtyard, terror in his eyes at said assassin.

He doesn't get to think more about it as Jongdae approaches him, holding what looks like the very arrow that was stuck inside his mate's shoulder. That potent anxiety in his veins loosens the noose slightly seeing that offending arrow finally out of Chanyeol's shoulder.

"I'm sorry it took us longer than expected but the arrow has finally been removed in full."

"Thank you Jongdae."

"I am happy to report that the assassin was not the best shot, it didn't go as deep as we feared and no where near any vital ligaments. Chanyeol will I suspect be fully healed by morning."

"What of the poison, will he have lasting effects."

"We have removed the arrow, the poison will not have lasting effects as it's not as potent as some I've come across. From the smell it's most likely a poison designed to cause the target to fall unconscious, which it successfully did. It's quite potent to be able to knock down a supreme alpha it's likely it was a concentrated oil."

"An oil, I did smell something floral, I know it's used a lot in medicine, will there be after effects."

"You are correct, I'm not sure of any side effects midwife Helen is applying a rosemary and ginseng salve to aid Chanyeol's healing, this will combat most of the poison. Baekhyun I will staying the night at the villa to be close by should any adverse reaction occur but I promise he will be awake by the midday sun at the latest."

"Thank you Jongdae truly, I will certainly feel better knowing you're close by. thank you too Midwife Helen.

"With your leave Baekhyun I will head back to the healing houses, the cubs are unsettled and I'm sure their mothers will appreciate the support."

"Of Course, please make sure everyone is comfortable and any foods salvageable are first given to the most vulnerable in the pack."

"We will leave you alone with your mate, Jongdae will call for me if any thing is wrong. His words are true Chanyeol will be awake by the high sun."

Baekhyun bows low to both Jongdae and Helen, and watches as they leave, turning around he comes face to face with both Daichi and Suho. A blush graces his cheeks at the look on both their faces, dare he say it but it's almost like they wear a look of pride. Daichi wearing a smile that's all soft and fondness.

"You have such a beautiful son in law Daichi a true jewel in the crown, Chanyeol will be so proud of what you have done tonight Baekhyun, a true soulmate in the face of adversity yes you've concentrated on Chanyeol as you should as a mate. Yet you've acted as a leader and considered the most vulnerable of this pack being kept warm and fed. That takes true grit Baekhyun.

I wish we so much closer to getting to the bottom of the spy in the middle of this, the spy must be from the pack it's the only answer."

It's not just his own wolf he hears growl, but Daichi hissing to he can't help but feel sorry for the poor wolf. Sadly justice will not be quick for the wolf who is betraying them. He's knows Chanyeol will make sure of it, and will be furious over this evenings attack.

Baekhyun goes to say just that when Daichi beats him to it with his own statement. "He will be so proud, now I want you to rest with Chanyeol, no buts the pack are safe, and I will be keeping patrol myself, Suho please your chambers are prepared I insist you too rest."

Baekhyun watches as Suho seems to fight an internal battle with himself, it's clear he wishes to stay and patrol what will now be an almost impenetrable encampment. However seems to accept that Daichi will broker no exception, Baekhyun vows  as he watches Suho leave the chamber.

Daichi then takes a step closer and gently places a hand on his shoulder, before heading over to a prone Chanyeol and placing his hand on his chest before he too leaves. It's when the doors to their private chambers do the events of the day seep deep in to his bones. Baekhyun can feel the exhaustion in his bones, not just from the preparations of the day, but the start of a familiar burning heat low in his back that feels familiar to that moment he woke up in extreme pain back in the forest.

He's so relieved that he won't show Daichi that he's uncomfortable and possibly coming into a heat, but the timing of his this heat couldn't be more dire. He needs his mate as does his wolf who whimpers and is starting to lie down in preparation, as the burn within in is starting to get stronger. Finally alone he allows his emotions to flow and lets his tears fall as he rushes over to his mate. The rosemary balm is strong and there's no longer any pain on his alpha's forehead, the yearning in his heart just will not abate, so he gently climbs on to the bed next to his mate.

Baekhyun lets his tears fall as longs to feel more than the echo of their link, knowing he can't hear his alpha's voice, or feel more then an echo he will settle for the feel of his mates body warmth. Ever so gently he folds his much smaller body into Chanyeol's side, letting his mate's body warmth soothe his tears and keep that raging burn of his heat under control for a moment.

My mighty alpha, I yearn for your comfort, you are my heart, my soul. We are one.

Baekhyun keeps that statement on a loop and pushes all his emotions through their link in the hope that Chanyeol can feel him, both in their link and his petite body pressed against his own. Finally letting his emotional state and impending heat take over, he can feel the exhaustion deep in his bones. Knowing it will not be long until till the pain of his heat rips apart his insides he finally succumbs to the exhaustion and falls into a restless sleep.

Several hours later.
It's an odd sensation that jars him from his uncomfortable sleep, it takes him a moment to realise he's been shaken gently. His wolf is first to react and can feel that his hackles are raised, instantly alerting him to his surroundings, that something is happening. He rouses from his sleep quickly to find that it's Sehun gently shaking him awake, their chamber is their safe place but Chanyeol made it clear that their would be times their peace would be intruded on by the pack. Never did he think it would be in the hours before dawn and by Chanyeol's most trusted alpha with a look of both fury and urgency.

"Sehun"

"I'm so sorry Baekhyun."

Hearing the absolute despair in the whisper of Sehun voice, has him instantly turning to the face of his alpha, whom much to his relief is still sleeping. His chest is rising normally, there's nothing but sereneness on his face and the skin where the arrow not so long ago was open is already closed over. Their link feels stronger too, which makes he himself feel so much more secure to know that his Alpha is on the mend.

What does startle him out of his still sleepy state is the clear despair still etched on Sehun's face, and the far off shuffled of feet and rattling of what can only be weapons. Dread settles in his stomach as something must be afoot for Sehun to of woken him, he's praying it's not another assassin as he remembers Daichi confirming he would be patrolling, he would never forgive himself if Daichi too was attacked. What Sehun says however has his dried tears renewing like a waterfall and ice cold fear, regret, and pain engulf his very core.

"A messenger from the temple has arrived, he came with a message written by your mother. I'm so sorry Baekhyun your father has been mortally wounded in an ambush."

Baekhyun doesn't stop the sob that rips from his chest at hearing the news of his father, his father who's done nothing to warrant being ambushed. He's a priest of the gods who's only ever wanted peace and has protected not only his own hermitage but helped others who have lost their way. It brings absolute agony to his heart to know this ambush took place at least four days ago, his mother must be exhausted.

He doesn't and can't think straight as he untangles himself from the body of his beloved Alpha, Sehun thankfully takes a step back as he all but stumbles off the bed and towards the trunk that holds his cape. He can't let his mother wait without his presence, he must be in so much pain. His own heart hurts and each scenario of injury his father has suffered is far more deadly with each thought.

He barrels about his dressing table and grabs some of the trinkets there, and a spare blanket from the trunk. Stopping mid in his tracks when he remembers that Sehun still stands beside the bed that his own injured mate lies upon. He should as his mate stay and wait for Chanyeol to wake up, but there pain in his heart and remembering Sehun said his father is mortally injured has him almost gasping out in distress. Distress that he has to make an impossible decision, a decision that could anger his mate if he's not within the territory. Or worse, which almost cause him to breakdown that he may not see his father alive again. Something that has his wolf howling out in pain over.

It's truly an impossible choice, dangerous too, but if he doesn't go to the temple he won't be able to live with the consequences of his father not recovering. His mother would be left without his mate and child all in one moment. He doesn't want to make this choice as he will anger the people he values more than his own life.

"If it's of any comfort, Daichi is arranging for Midwife Helen to leave with a retinue of our own guard. Who will be setting out before the sun rises."

Baekhyun really is placed with an impossible decision, he wants to be close to his heart, his soul, his alpha, but he can't abandon his parents in their time of need. It's not lost on him that this could be a trap, but what choice does he have. He can't bear to be apart from his alpha especially with his heat looming, but to leave his parents so venerable, with his father in mortal danger would not be proper. Closing his eyes he returns to his mates side. He's made his decision and as painful and potentially life threatening that it is, he can't not return to his childhood home.

Leaning down he gently kisses Chanyeol's lips, whispering we are one and pouring everything he has in to their link.

My mighty alpha, you are my heart, my soul. We are one, I will return this i promise. I hope you will forgive my decision and know that I go with you in my heart eternally.

With his vow complete he turns to find Sehun, Sehun's statue is not as he expected, he thought he would be face with the fury of Sehun not understanding his decision but all he sees is determination.

"Please Sehun, explain to Daichi that there will be one more heading to temple."

"There will be two young Baekhyun, my own mate and Chanyeol will have my hind if I didn't accompany you."

"What of the pack?"

"The pack is well protected, right now we have to protect the temple come what may. Chanyeol will be at full strength come sundown, no doubt hot on our heals."

Nothing more is said as Sehun turns and heads out of the chamber, he himself turns back to his mate once more. Committing to memory every line and curve on his alpha's beautiful face. He places a second tender loving kiss on Chanyeol's lips before turning out of their chamber. Striding out he makes sure his hood up on his dark cape as he heads out of the villa down the path to the retinue of guards waiting.

Nothing more is said as Sehun appears from the left after sharing a kiss with Luhan he too strides across the path with long sword at his back.

Baekhyun shares a meaningful with Luhan, he knows the decision he's made will come as a shock, but if this will keep his father alive and danger away from the pack he would make the same decision again and again, and again.

Baekhyun takes a deep breath as he and the guards head out past the villa to the olive groves back in to the forest that will hopefully offer them some camouflage as they rush as quietly as they can towards the temple.

He prays to the moon gods for forgiveness and for strength to face the coming days, completely ignoring the tinge of redness on the full moon above. Completely unable to see the shadows that lurk in the darkness before the dawn.

Eeek, what an update, how was that my lovelies, I truly hope this update makes up for my prolonged absence from this story.

I seriously want to thank you for staying with me and waiting so patiently for this update. I'm so looking forward to your feedback, please don't be shy I'd would love to know what you think good or bad.

I promise it will not be 12 months before I update. I have big things planned for this story, so please stay tuned.

Did any of you get to see Baekhyun's concert, I've seen snippets on YouTube, boy did he do amazing. How fitting that I get an update out the same day.

❤️❤️❤️❤️