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Ashryn-

Six months flew by before Ashryn knew it. Her Keep was now the proud home of one hundred and sixteen Lycans. The largest number in the history of Lyonhall. With so many new additions the Keep scrambled to build new homes. At the end of summer each family had their own home and the lake Ashryn wanted was finished as well.

Alduin and Lyra grew and grew with each day. By the third month they were able to speak clearly and at four months both of their ears stood up on their own. Slightly longer than a normal Lycan's ears Ashryn thought it was adorable how small their heads were compared to their ears. Now about sixty pounds each they romped around with each other more and more.

Thea came once a week to check them over and put Ashryn's mind at ease. She was still worried they wouldn't survive but Thea knew different. They both were strong and learned quickly. Perfect examples of Lycan children. She would boast.

As summer came to an end the Keep was busy preparing for winter. Stocking food, readying farms, and insolating the newer houses. Ashryn wasn't terribly busy during this time so she spent most of her days with her pups. Luka on the other hand was busy with the Guru. With so many numbers now he had to restructure his pack. Able to have six Betas now and a few Omegas even Ashryn could feel the happiness the entire Lycan race felt being in a pack again.

Ashryn took the pups to her lake, lovingly named Ash Lake, with Kiara after lunch time. Kiara was ready to go over numbers with her but she knew the pups would grow bored of sitting in the throne room. The pups splashed and played in the water as Kiara spoke with Ashryn.

"We are up seventeen percent in income from this time last year and you already know about our Lycan count. We may need to invest in some new teachers. Thea has been working from sun up to sun down lately, and next Lycan mating season our numbers will grow much more. Hump like rabbits they do."

Ashryn smiled and looked to her.

"That they do. Get with Thea and see if she has anyone she thinks would be a good teacher. It would be nice to get a few more Elves in there."

"I can stop by the school today. Also, I should bring to your attention that we have not heard anything from Crystal Keep."

"I prefer it that way. King Frost is nothing but trouble and I know that was one of the few holds that Luka had to take by force. We've gained back what we lost from trading with them within weeks. I am not worried."

Kiara nodded and went back to her books. Ashryn gazed over at the lake watching Alduin help Lyra build a sandcastle. He always looked out of her, even going so far to attack a small bird who was chirping just a little too loud one day. He would make a great Alpha one day.

"I believe that's all for today M'lady."

Kiara spoke snapping Ashryn out of thought. She nodded then noticed Rouge coming over to them. She let out a smile then said.

"Are you being taken away?"

Kiara glanced back then looked to the ground. Her cheeks red as fire.

"I am..."

Rouge came over and took a bow to Ashryn.

"M'lady."

"Afternoon Rouge. Come to snatch my scribe away?"

"I have."

He knelt down and placed his muzzle in Kiara's neck, much like Luka would do to her.

"If I am allowed?"

Ashryn smiled to Kiara who looked so flustered it was cute.

"Of course, as long as you keep treating her sweetly."

Rouge smiled and bowed his head again.

"Always. I adore her."

"Stop Rouge..."

Kiara mumbled gathering her books.

"I am as red as an apple..."

"Cute."

He chuckled and stood with her. Ashryn watched them wander off together hand in hand. Starting to feel that ping of loneliness she let out a soft sigh and looked to the Guru grounds.

"Mama..."

Lyra called coming over to her side. Ashryn smiled at her.

"Yes baby?"

She flopped down in the sand and whimpered.

"I'm hungry."

"It is almost lunch time. What do you say we go get your father and eat together?"

Alduin launched himself into Ashryn's arms from out of nowhere, squeaking with excitement.

"To the Guru grounds?! Yes! I love going there!"

Ashryn recovered from the sixty pound cannon ball then stood up with him in her arms.

"Alright, but let's keep the tackling down to a minimum."

He laughed loudly swinging in her arms.

"No promises. Come on mama, let's go!"

"Alright-alright. Relax. Too much like your father..."

><

Luka-

With the influx of Lycans to the Keep came more and more Guru. Not every Lycan wanted to serve with them. Others joined as farmers or Healers. There numbers went from sixty full time Guru to eighty. Eighty full time Guru roamed the grounds and the great wall. Within the pack the numbers were so large Luka promoted extra Betas as well as granting a few Omega spots as well. Rouge and Roger commanded over the Omegas directly. They had proved their worth over their short rein.

Luka stood with his father watching over the sparring Guru.

"Look at how our numbers have grown."

Borgan crossed his arms and smiled.

"Reminds me of the old times. Before the great enslavement. This is wonderful."

"The pack is growing. This is the largest I have ever commanded over. Makes me slightly nervous."

Borgan chuckled and clapped his back.

"You'll do fine and none of us will come for your Alpha position. We are too busy caring for our own and enjoying our lives here."

Luka grunted turning to look out into the grounds. His father's words made him feel better. Things had not been the same since he returned to Lyonhall. Now he felt like a true Alpha and a King. Saving his people, protecting his home, and caring for his family were goals he never thought he could obtain. But here he stood, an Alpha in his prime with an heir to his standing.

"Ah the little ones."

Borgan spoke suddenly making Luka turn. His pups crawled up the stairs to him squeaking happily.

"Grandpa! Father!"

Alduin dove into Borgan as Lyra jumped into Luka's arms.

"Hello little ones. I've missed you."

Lyra wriggled and squirmed against Luka's chest a huge smile on her white muzzle.

"Father...mama said we had to come collect you for lunch. Alduin is already whining."

Luka chuckled and kissed her head.

"He is always a bit whiny. Where is your mother?"

"Catching up."

Ashryn arrived at the top of the stairs and gave a heavy sigh.

"Speed demons I swear."

"You keep up with fully grown males but your own young tire you?"

Borgan roared with laughter.

"What an odd twist of fate."

"Oh hush Borgan. You try carrying them around for two months."

Borgan smiled at her then said.

"You sound like Ansel."

Luka nudged his muzzle into Lyra's furry stomach and rumbled with a playful growl. She squealed with giggles batting at his muzzle.

"I am too hungry to play. I might just wither away!"

"I hear you. Now that mama has caught up we can go to lunch together."

"Grandpa are you coming too?"

Alduin asked hanging from Borgan's arm. Luka looked to Borgan who smiled down at his grandpup.

"I would love to little one."

Luka found peace seeing his father so happy. It had been a long time since Luka had seen a smile like that.

"Let's go before you shrink in size."

"OH NO!"

><

Ashryn-

Ashryn settled in the mess-hall soon after noon and sat with Luka. She had missed him this morning. She nudged under his arm and leaned against his fury side. He chuckled and moved his arm to make way for her.

"I missed you too."

She smiled and hugged close to him. Watching him cut up smaller pieces of meat for the pups with Borgan. Ashryn let them handle the feeding habits of the pups. She knew how to cook for an Elf child. Lycans were a bit different. So she settled to watching, her fingers toyed in Luka's fur.

Alduin climbed up on the table then turned to help his sister up.

"We are starving."

"I can only chop so fast little one."

Borgan leaned over and nudged Lyra's hind legs. Luka finished and moved to two plates towards them.

"Alright, no messes this time."

Ashryn sat and watched her babies eat for a while. Still half convinced this was a dream she let out a smile and squeezed Luka tight. He let out a grunt and looked down to her.

"Aren't you hungry M'lady?"

"Yes, sorry. Admiring my babies."

Ashryn sat up and glanced to him.

"Can't help it."

He smiled back at her and nudged her plate closer.

"Trust me, I understand. They are perfection."

"Are you finished with your Guru?"

"For the most part yes, why?"

"Wanted to spend some family time with you. You've been so busy lately..."

"I will watch over the Guru."

Borgan spoke up making her turn. He smiled to her and said.

"My pup is grown. I have time to deal with sparring Guru and number counts."

"Thank you Borgan...you offer to take them often. Spoiling them are we?"

"Oh of course. My first grandpups, I must. It is the way of the goddess."

Ashryn turned to Luka who smiled at her.

"I am free then. Should we go back to the lake? Chase each other around the corn fields?"

"Anything with you."

><

Ashryn spent a wonderful afternoon with Luka and the pups. They played at the lake then headed to Thea's for sweet-berry treats. As daylight ended Luka rounded up the pups to head home for dinner then bed. Ashryn rode on Luka's back as he chased his pups towards the castle.

"Today was great Draug...thank you."

He glanced back at her and smiled.

"Any day we spend together is wonderful."

She scratched his ears as they drew closer to him. Alduin and Lyra yelped and jumped around happily.

"Dinner is my favorite meal!"

Luka slowed to a trot just outside the door. Ashryn slid off Luka's back as Arnold came outside.

"There you are M'lady. Urgent business."

"What?"

"Scouts have returned with news of humans roaming around the great wall. Heavily armed and not a kind look about them."

Ashryn picked up Lyra then said.

"Lock down the grounds. Light the guard towers for light and set up roving packs to watch the wall."

"Mama...?"

Lyra whimpered. Ashryn smiled at her and cuddled her close.

"It's alright little one. This is what the Guru are for."

Luka went to Arnold and said.

"Beta Rouge is within the grounds. He knows which teams are ready."

Alduin reared up on his back paws and leaned on Luka's haunches.

"Batten down the hatches! Call to arms!"

Luka scooped up Alduin then continued with Arnold.

"My father should be there as well."

"Understood."

As he left Ashryn turned Luka to her.

"Let's take them home. It's getting late and we can make dinner in our room."

He nodded but Alduin had other plans.

"No way! Let's go to the wall and see if we can see anyone!"

"Oh no. You are way too young to become a Guru."

Luka replied with a smile.

"For now you are in charge of watching your sister."

Alduin leap from Luka to Ashryn. He cuddled up to Lyra and Ashryn.

"I will protect you. Have no fear."

Ashryn sighed and looked to Luka. He just smiled back at her and said.

"Too much for this world to handle."

"Too much for us to handle..."

><

Luka-

After dinner Luka laid out in bed reading while the pups played quietly before bed. Ashryn sat against his side occasionally tossing toys to the pups. He laid his book down and reached out to touch her arm.

"Are you alright?"

She nodded and smiled to him.

"Yes, I am not nervous about our unwanted guests. They will leave or your Guru will make them. Either way I will sleep peacefully tonight, and so will our babies."

"Your calmness towards this helps me remain calm."

Alduin climbed up into bed with them and let out a loud yawn. Ashryn smiled at him.

"Sleepy baby?"

He nodded and gazed up at her.

"Yes, I want to cuddle with Lyra and sleep."

Lyra followed behind climbing the bed as she said.

"Me too. I'm full and tired now."

Ashryn picked up her pups then stood out of bed.

"Alright, it's late anyways."

She put the pups in their room then closed the door behind her. She wandered back over to Luka watching his eyes scan his book. She pushed herself under his hands and onto his chest lying out. He chuckled and closed his book.

"Hello M'lady."

She nuzzled into his fur and gave a heavy sigh.

"Hello Draug. How was your day?"

"Always wonderful to be beside you."

He adjusted a bit beneath her, allowing her to straddle him lying down.

"And to spend the day with you and our pups is always fun. They are so lively and smart for six month olds."

"Alduin will make a fine Alpha one day. Already protective and ready to fight."

Ashryn sighed but smiled.

"He will join the Guru one day...I can tell. Then I will have to sit and wait for the both of your to return to me. I don't know if my heart can take that."

"Fear not. He comes from strong stock."

Luka remarked with a laugh.

"And he has to be at least twenty to try out, so we have a few years. And he still has to try out. No free rides just because he is a prince."

"Nice to know you don't play favorites with anyone."

"You know...with them here now we actually can plan to retire one day. I would step down and give Lyra the Keep and Alduin would take over your Alpha position. She will find her own true love and continue on our line and he will find his own mate to lead the Lycans. Where does that leave us?"

Luka studied her eyes for a moment. Gathering his own thoughts.

"My father stuck around for me when I became Alpha. I would like to support Alduin in that way."

"I don't mean right away. After a few years of them running things and we are pleased with the way things are heading. When I finally got ahold of this Keep my parents traveled to the southern marshlands to live in peace for the rest of their lives. We could do the same. Go off into the mountains and romp around all day."

She watched him smile and reach to touch her face.

"No duties? No having to answer to anymore? We would go crazy, but I do agree. We can start trying to figure out what we will do. We have time, eons even."

"You have a fair point. This is why I speak with you. Always ready to calm my mind."

"I have some use here."

He joked. His big paw cupped her cheek as he chuckled.

"Now that the pups are out what would you like to do Ash?"

Ashryn pushed herself up to sit on his stomach, staring down at him.

"Let's take a quick run around the grounds then...something fun."

"Fun? Like?"

"Something like this position now but with more movement and less clothing..."

Ashryn spoke coyly now. Her finger tips digging into his fur. A growl vibrated his chest as his paws moved to her hips.

"That does sound fun...run first though?"

"Yes, nearly the full moon and I know how much you love running with the moon. Plus it is soon to get cold. Our outside time is coming to a close."

Luka nodded and leaned up on his paws to kiss her.

"I love you Ash, and I will forever."

She smiled and hugged him tight.

"I love you too Luka."

><

Ashryn woke the next morning to the sound of the guard bells going off. She jumped out of bed but not before Luka. He raced into the pups room just before she did. Damn he was fast. They still laid in their crib, sleeping peacefully. Luka, panting softly, reached down and gently touched their fur. Ashryn came over and touched his arm.

"They are fine...thank goddess."

"Let's go find out what the real problem is."

Luka said and looked to her. Ashryn furrowed her brows and clenched her fists.

"Yes."

><

Luka-

Luka loped off towards the Guru grounds with Ashryn on her back. Ansel had surprisingly met them in the hall. Ready to watch over the pups for him. He loved his mother to the moon and back.

Borgan came right up to them as they arrived to the grounds. Luka helped Ashryn down as he stood up to meet him.

"An attack. Out in the woods. Few Guru are wounded."

Luka let out a growl.

"When?"

"Just before dawn. They were flying this."

Borgan tossed a ripped piece of fabric to Luka. Puzzled he unfurled it and it opened to be Crystal Keep's emblem. He looked to Ashryn who looked beyond mad.

"Brecken..."

"Yes, we've seen a few scouts from his land in our trees within the last few days."

Borgan took the flag back and let out a growl.

"Looking for a weak spot in our wall."

"Good that there is none."

Luka growled back.

"And with our numbers so high no one will get into our home. Did you find the attackers?"

"Yes, captured and returned as commanded."

"You Guru always listen well."

Ashryn came over and took the flag from Borgan.

"Will the Guru live?"

"Yes, few broken bones and some good cuts. Paxton is doing well here. He saved most of them."

"Downs?"

"Yes."

Borgan smiled to Ashryn. Pride behind his eyes.

"Slowly working his way to an Omega position if his Alpha hasn't noticed."

Luka chuckled.

"I have. He is doing well."

Ashryn nearly jumped for joy as she applauded.

"Oh that's so good to hear. I'm glad he made it into the Guru! Has all his fur grown in yet?"

Luka rested a paw on her shoulder and smiled.

"Let's visit. I'd like to get more information on what happened anyways."

Borgan nodded and waved for them to follow. Near the end of the grounds sat the medical tent only for Guru wounds. Luka followed his father towards the tent and just as they arrived Paxton came out. Finally all his silver fur had grown back and his mange cleared up. Luka came right over to him and shook his paw.

"Alpha, morning to you."

His voice was still raspy but sounded much better. Almost like a loud whisper.

"Morning. You look well now. Our Queen wishes to check in on you."

Paxton's smile grew as he took a deep bow to Ashryn as she approached.

"Good morning M'lady. We all apologize for such a rude awakening."

"You didn't wake the pups so it's fine."

Ashryn said with a laugh.

"Look at you though. Buffed out and furry again! How is your family?"

Paxton laughed locking his paws behind his back. Luka appreciated this. A submissive pose with his queen and letting Luka know he wasn't a threat. A fine Lycan.

"Well. My brothers did so well in the farmlands they decided to stay. Produced well over half the food we are storing for winter with the help of others. I was the only one to test to be a Guru."

"I see you've made it. Well done Paxton. How do you like it here?"

"Oh I love it here..."

He cleared his throat and looked down.

"Sorry...my reserve is still under training..."

Ashryn laughed and shook her head.

"It's alright. All my Guru are special to me. Speak freely."

"I love it here. I never really had a place to call home growing up. Now I am Paxton of the Downs family from Lyonhall Keep."

He spoke proudly and stood up a bit straighter. Luka smiled and patted his shoulder.

"We are glad to have you. I will let you two finish up. I want to know more about what happened this morning."

"Of course Alpha."

Paxton bowed to him again then turned back to Ashryn. Luka went inside the tent and found Borgan sitting with Thea.

"Thea. Good to know you are here. Their wounds will heal quickly now."

She smiled as he approached and said.

"Not to many wounds to heal. The Guru are strong. I'm guessing you've come for information M'lord?"

"Yes. What happened?"

"Paxton's group was doing front rounds of the Keep. Caught the scouts from Crystal Keep resting and were attacked."

"We didn't attack first?'"

"No never."

Borgan answered for Thea. Luka nodded giving a soft sigh.

"Good. They attacked then what?"

"Our Guru fought them into submission and we tied them up and sent them back home. Few bumps and bruises but they will heal fine."

"How many of us were hurt?"

"A lot less thanks to Paxton. Three of our own and two humans."

"Will they heal?"

"Without any issues."

Luka sighed and crossed his arms.

"Good. I heard the bells and thought the worst. Lock down the gate and keep the Guru on their toes."

Borgan stood ruffling his black fur a bit.

"I will guide the Omegas. Nothing will get in this Keep without your say so."

><

Ashryn-

Ashryn watched Luka head into the tent then she turned back to Paxton. He did look much better. Looked like a proper male Lycan now. Furry and strong.

"So you've found family here?"

"Yes M'lady."

He rasped.

"Actually more than we thought originally. Our sister was here and we didn't even know it."

"That's wonderful to hear. Adjusting well to being a Guru?"

He smiled and looked down.

"Yes, I must admit I was a bit eager at first. I am glad the Betas made me wait the month. This is not for the weak."

"Healed up and furry again as I can see."

He laughed nodding his head.

"Yes Ma'am. Strong and fuzzy again."

"Any prospects for a mate for yourself?"

Paxton nervously scratched his ear adverting his eyes to the ground. Ashryn let out a laugh nudging his shoulder.

"Don't keep things from me now. You are my Guru."

Running his paw down his muzzle he smiled but sighed.

"I've been...look I'm not good at giving hints or anything like that, and when it comes to the fairer sex, I stumble over my words. I talk too much or too little."

"Spill it Paxton."

Ashryn laughed.

"Who is it?"

Paxton gave a sigh then turned his eyes towards the tent, staying silent. Ashryn studied him for a moment then followed his eyes. She could just see Thea sitting and talking with Borgan and Luka inside.

"W...what?"

Paxton tore his eyes back down to the floor and smiled.

"I think she is beautiful...and so kind...but every time I get near her I forget how to speak, my fur stands on end, my paws sweat. It's like I am a puppy again."

Ashryn stared at Paxton.

"But she's...she's so old..."

He laughed shaking his head.

"As am I M'lady. I look good for over eight hundred."

Her mouth dropped which just made him laugh more.

"Age means nothing to me anymore. I have lived a great many lifetimes on this planet but none as good as the months I have been here."

"So wait...wait you like Thea? Like...like her like her?"

Paxton chuckled nodding his head.

"I do. I think she is beautiful and would love to have her hung off my arm."

"How about I whisper in one of my favorite Lycan's ear?"

Paxton looked nervous suddenly and glanced back to Thea.

"Oh...I dunno...she's so high ranking and has such a close bond with you...I am not worthy."

Ashryn smiled and reached out to touch Paxton's hand. He jumped slightly but Ashryn calmed him.

"Luka said the same things to me when I expressed my feelings for him. How unworthy he was of my love, how he was a lower being compared to me, how it wouldn't be right for him to love me. Something I have learned being on this planet for as long as I have is; no one is unworthy of another's love. Trust me."

Paxton stood straight up and looked into the tent. Ashryn watched his paws curl in and out of fists a few times.

"I do."

He marched right into the tent and stood Thea up. She looked surprised as did Borgan and Luka.

"Paxton?"

He held her tightly then leaned in and kissed her deeply. Ashryn smiled and came right over to Luka who looked beyond confused.

"Ah young love."

Paxton pulled away and Thea just stared at him. Ashryn watched a smile spread across her muzzle as her eyes softened.

"Oh..."

"Yeah..."

Paxton mumbled. Thea looked like she was blushing as she looked away.

"I see..."

"Do you?"

"I do..."

"Aw you two are so cute together."

Ashryn teased.

"And you both have such a way with words."

Paxton lifted Thea's muzzle to his and smiled at her.

"You are as beautiful as the sunrise, I ache to be the first thing you see."

"Oh stop Paxton."

Thea waved a paw but did move closer to him.

"You'll make this old dog weak in the knees."

"That is my plan."

><

Luka-

The Keep was set to high alert all day. No one in or out of the grounds. Luka stayed by Ashryn's side all day. Ever watchful over her and his pups. The pups had no idea what was happening and it was for the best. They were too young to have worry like this weighing on their hearts.

Luka sat with Ashryn nearby the lake as the pups played with a few others in the water. Only a few days left of warmth left, Luka knew Ashryn wanted the pups to play as long as they could outside. Winter would be harsh and no place for tiny paws. Luka lounged against a tree with Ashryn seated in his lap.

"Draug?"

He grunted and took his eyes off the pups to gaze at her.

"Yes?"

"Is there a lot of Lycans who hold back their love because they feel unworthy?"

"A lot of us feel unworthy for anything. Beat into us by our slave drivers it is a hard habit to break."

Luka replied with a sigh.

"Why do you ask?"

"Paxton and Thea. He was so set and ready to let maybe the love of his life pass him by because he thought he was unworthy..."

Ashryn mused. She picked up his paw and toyed with his larger paw-pad.

"Reminded me of you when I first told you I had feelings for you. You damn near ran off when I tried to kiss you."

Luka chuckled falling back into memories.

"Yes I did."

"You need to teach your people better."

Ashryn turned to him and smiled.

"They are not lower life forms and they are all worthy of love. We can be the shining example. Lycan and Elf mated together for the rest of time. With their own children to continue on in their stead."

"I will hold a meeting."

Ashryn laughed and turned to face him.

"Good. So do you think Thea would breed with Paxton during mating season?"

Luka joined her in a laugh then said.

"Let's see how far they get before spring. She may be too much for him. But to answer your question, yes they can breed if they wish."

"Maybe we should turn the tables on Thea."

Ashryn gave him a sly look.

"She was the one who caused our twins. Maybe we should cause her triplets as revenge."

Luka leaned in and kissed her cheek smiling.

"Cannot get revenge on the two sweetest gifts we have ever received."

"Alright Mr. Sweetness. Give it a rest."

Borgan appeared a short while later and settled in the grass with them.

"Sorry to interrupt your outing but I need Luka to go to the grounds for a bit."

Borgan smiled.

"There are still some things I cannot do for you Alpha."

Luka sighed but nodded.

"Alright, stay with them?"

"Spend time with my grandpups and my Queen? Twist my arm a bit more boy."

Luka chuckled and nudged his father as he stood up.

"Thank you."

><

Ashryn-

Luka kissed her goodbye then ran off towards the Guru grounds. Ashryn looked to Borgan who smiled at her.

"It's only paper signing. He won't be gone too long."

"How do you deal with being away from Ansel for so long?"

He chuckled and dug into his chest fur. He pulled out a long chain with a deep blue rock attached to the end.

"I am never far from here. When we met for the first time we were but children. Probably younger than yours. Growing up in the same pack we were around each other for most of our lives. We played together and found this huge rock buried under our den. We must have chipped at that thing for months but eventually we broke off two pieces."

"Aww! That is so cute. You kept them all this time?"

"Only thing that kept me going some years."

Borgan sighed softly as he moved beside her.

"When we were separated and taken into slavery I must have clutched this thing every night, praying I'd see her again."

"I couldn't imagine. How...how long were you apart?"

"Sixteen years."

Borgan sighed again and she watched his eyes wander out to her pups playing.

"When she was taken we had just found out she was carrying my children. I waited until one night when my masters were asleep and I freed myself and the others I was chained to. After that I ran and ran until I found her and my children."

"So you didn't know Luka until he was sixteen?"

Ashryn asked, clutching her chest. Her heart broke for him. Borgan nodded and turned to look back at her.

"It was a rough life for us...things are much better now."

"I know about Lydia..."

Ashryn hugged her knees into her chest gazing at him. Borgan rumbled with a deep growl.

"A great loss to my family...but Luka has risen to importance and provided a wonderful home for our entire race. I am very proud of what he has done."

He paused to move beside her and nudge her into his side.

"And who he has brought into our family. I wouldn't trade those adorable pups for anything."

She smiled and gazed over at her babies. They tossed and tumbled with three other puppies. Kiara sitting close playing with them.

"Or you."

Gazing back at him his blue eyes kind and soft.

"I have lived on this planet for nine hundred and sixty two years. These years I have spent here under your Keep have eased eons of unrest. I wouldn't trade you for anyone or anything."

"Thank you Borgan. You are sweet to me. I wouldn't trade you either."

Ashryn patted his shoulder kindly.

Luka returned soon and settled with them under the tree. He sighed as he sat and said.

"Seven new Guru have tried out. I've approved them we just await your final signing M'lady."

Ashryn smiled at him and moved to lean against his body.

"More? May have to expand our Guru grounds at this rate."

Luka nuzzled her into his body, making her smile more.

"Draug you weren't gone that long..."

"He's always been a clingy Lycan."

Borgan chuckled gazing over at him. Ashryn felt Luka look over at his father.

"I got that from you."

"Yes you did. Even when you were grown you were a cuddly."

"Every night this big oaf would curl so tight around my mother so tightly she was barely visible."

Luka teased glancing down to her. Ashryn smiled and looked to Borgan.

"Why is it the biggest Lycans are always the most touchy?"

"Because truthfully we are giant teddy bears."

Borgan laughed out his answer. Luka agreed with his own chuckle.

"He is right. I would much rather lay with you then run around and kill things."

"Your race is adorable."

Ashryn gave a soft sigh and leaned back into Luka's fur.

"I care for you all so much."

"And we care for you M'lady."

Borgan gave her such a kind smile it melted her heart.

"Forever."

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Luka-

Dinner time rolled around and Luka sat in the hall with his family. Ashryn sang with Lyra trying to get her to finish her greens to his left. Borgan and Ansel to his right talking and laughing together softly. Alduin sat in his lap munching on a chicken leg. Perfection. He looked down to his son and asked.

"Does it meet your high standards Prince?"

Alduin let out a giggle and stared up at him.

"Yes and you know how high mine are."

"A hard man to please."

He laughed again then looked over to Ashryn.

"I'm easy actually. Hugs, food, and mama."

"What about me?"

Alduin smiled up at him and patted Luka's leg.

"You're my favorite-favorite father. Just don't tell anyone."

"I won't. Your secret is safe with me."

He went back to eating humming happily. Luka petting his back just falling further and further in love.

Quick movement caught his eye and he turned towards Ashryn. Arnold had come up to her side and spoke quickly. Luka's paw tightened around his son, becoming protective.

"Not so tight. Hard to chew like that."

"Sorry little one."

Ashryn looked over to him a worried look suddenly in her eyes. He stood and went to her side.

"What?"

She shook her head and looked past him to his parents.

"Go with your grandparents little ones."

Alduin cleaned up with Lyra then sprinted over to Borgan to jump on him. Luka caught Ashryn's eyes and asked again.

"What?"

"Come with me."

She took his paw and followed Arnold out of the hall. Kiara waited in the hall for them, she looked worried as well.

"What is going on?"

Luka growled. Ashryn patted his side trying to calm him down.

"We've received a message from Crystal Keep...giving us a chance to surrender before they attack."

Luka snarled and pulled his claws into fists.

"I have had it with this Keep."

"I feel the same way."

Ashryn balled up the note and turned to Arnold.

"Enough is enough. We are taking that Keep."

"Taking?"

She turned right to him and stared him right in the eye. Luka stared back awaiting her orders.

"Ready your Guru. We are going to war."

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Ashryn-

Ashryn placed her pups in the care of Ansel for the night. She was amazing at keeping them distracted and calm. She waited in her war-room with Borgan at her side. Luka was off gathering a small army of his strongest Guru.

She was furious now. How dare Brecken threaten to attack her home, and he was foolish to do so. Her numbers higher than ever they were the only Keep to threaten Lyonhall after she freed everyone. Others had fallen to submission or cut ties with her Keep. Either way she expected this to stay peaceful but knew in the back of her mind Brecken would fight against her.

"M'lady?"

She blinked a few times then looked to Borgan.

"I'm fine. Ready to get rid of this thorn in my side."

"If I may...I have an idea for you. I don't want to overstep any lines or anything. I am not an Alpha or royalty."

"Oh yes you are. You are my mate's father. Basically royal. But tell me. What is this idea?"

Borgan knelt down next to her seat and looked her right in the eyes.

"Take the Keep and rename it under Lyonhall. We have enough Guru to send there to protect the grounds...you have staff you trust to command in your stead. You could expand your havens. Crystal Keep is in a perfect central point to continue your trade."

Ashryn studied him but did like his idea.

"Go on."

"It would be simple. That Keep is within howling distance for the Guru so if anything was to happen we could send reinforcements almost instantly. It would clear up space here by allowing a trade outpost."

"I would need to send someone I trust greatly."

"Oh of course."

"Someone who has been very loyal to me for a long time."

Borgan nodded his blue eyes sincere.

"Yes, they would be commanding a Keep under your name. They must be loyal to no end."

"Someone whose son I've fallen in love with."

She watched his face fall which just made her laugh. Suddenly nervous.

"Would you command a Keep under my name Borgan?"

"M-me?"

"Yes. You are very loyal, have served under me since your first day here, trained quite a few of my best Guru, and watch over my pups with the same watchful eye I do."

"But I am a Lycan..."

Ashryn cast him a sly look then said.

"That doesn't mean anything to me and you know it. Think of how grand it would be to have an entire Keep run by Lycans. Could you imagine how our numbers would grow then? I'm sure your people feel safer coming to ask for aid from their own people."

"I...I'm not worth-"

"Don't you dare say those words."

Ashryn snapped at him.

"Your Queen is asking this of you. Asking by the way. I give this choice to you."

Borgan put his paw on his heart as his eyes softened.

"Can I take Ansel?"

"Oh of course. I would never split you two up. And if you do this for me it will give me reason to visit and ship my pups off to you to watch for a week."

"I'd miss them horribly at first."

"We can do a slow move. Stay a few days there come home here. It's up to you Borgan."

Ashryn reached out and touched his muzzle.

"It is your Keep to command. Do as you please. Will you take on this task for me?"

He smiled and nodded his head, gazing at her.

"Yes M'lady. I will not let you down. You can trust me."

"I do. Thank you. But first we must take the Keep."

She held his muzzle watching his eyes grow fierce.

"Send me with them. I will destroy your enemies."

"You may join them if you wish. You are still one of my Guru. Bit more special than others but still one none the less. Of course you can go."

"Thank you...for everything..."

Ashryn gave him a warm smile then petted his ears.

"Thanks all around Borgan. I wouldn't trade you for anyone."

Luka appeared with Arnold and Rouge beside him. Ashryn stood to greet them and asked.

"Are your Guru prepared?"

"We leave at dawn."

Luka replied nodding. He looked ready. Wearing his Guru armor it reminded her of the first few times they had met. Keeping her eyes off his midsection she remained focused.

"Borgan is going with you. I also want Paxton to go. He will be useful to my plan. Rouge go ready the troops by the gate the Humans and Elves should be along shortly. I need to speak with Luka before I send him along. Borgan you should go too."

She turned to him and continued.

"You need your armor and don't forget to see Ansel and the pups off."

He smiled down at her a proud look about him.

"Yes M'lady."

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Luka-

Ashryn explained her plan to Luka as they walked towards the gate together. He liked her plan and was surprised she had picked his father to lead. She always said he was brass and quick to fight. Must have been because of the loyalty.

"So basically I will have him and Ansel acting as King and Queen of that Keep while we run this one. Use it as a satellite trade area and to send out further shipments. What do you think?"

"I like it. Sounds like a great move forwards for Lyonhall."

Ashryn stopped suddenly beside him. He stopped and turned watching her stare at him.

"Borgan and Ansel can watch over it until the pups are of age. Luka...it could be the same there as it is here. A Queen and an Alpha."

Luka gave her a smile and came over to her side.

"Yes, that sounds like a great plan. You have a lot of trust in my father. Thinking he will give up his Keep."

"I wouldn't ask him to give it up I'd ask him to share with his grandpups."

She gave a small laugh and continued on.

"That will sucker him into it easier. Come on Draug, you have a future home for our pups to clear out."

Luka let out a loud growl and caught up to her.

"Yes M'lady."

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