It was not peace yet, but it was closer than I had felt in many cycles.
I was sipping warm herb brew in the Moonrest chamber when my crystal communicator pulsed.
Alden: [What is happening? Why are pack workers taking our things?]
I waited before answering, letting confusion settle. Then I sent back a simple message.
I answered, [That would be the removal notice.]
Moments later, Alden mindlinked me.
I answered.
“What madness is this?” Alden demanded. “Removal? Why are they here? Is this some trick?”
“I am selling the manor,” I replied calmly. “The parchments were sealed this morning.”
“You cannot do that! I am your Alpha, your mate!” he roared. “We never agreed!”
“I do not require your approval,” I said coldly. “It belongs to me, not under Stormfang Pack territory, but in Mooncrown. You have never given moon-credits. Not for shelter. Not for light runes. Not even for shared meals.”
Silence followed, thick and sharp.
Then he growled, “You are overreacting again. Come back, Liora. We can fix this.”
“There is nothing left to fix,” I said, standing by the window as rain washed the lantern lights below. “I am finished. With all of you.”
“You do not mean that.”
“I have meant it for many moons.”