Return to Wisteria (Book Three of the Wisteria Chronicles)

CHAPTER 5~The Council~

Autumn

      The intense throbbing in my head suddenly disappeared. It felt like a huge weight had been lifted. I moved my legs a little, then my arms. They were a little stiff but they felt good. “I know you’re awake, baby girl. It’s time to get out of bed.” Mom said, gently brushing back my hair. I groaned, it felt like I had just fallen asleep. “Come one baby, your siblings finished packing and the Council is already here.” I shot up, her words making me panic. 

      I had wished and prayed that everything that had happened was a dream. I didn’t want to go. Goddess, I had been an i***t. I got swept away by Quincy’s words and ignored all of the red flags. I knew about the rumors and his ex-mate scandal. But then he approached me with sorrowful brown eyes and beautiful promises of the future. I had prayed his words would come true.

    He had told me he loved me with one breath and then called me worthless with the next. He hit me harder when I tried to fight back. I’m proud that I stood my ground and didn’t turn my back on my wolf. If she didn’t want to be claimed then neither did I. Quincy manipulated me and made me feel like I wasn’t enough. He made me feel pathetic and weak. I clenched my fists, never again. Duchess growled in agreement.

   Mom moved around the room double checking some bags that were packed. She had unshed tears in her eyes as she pulled something out of her pocket. Goddess, mom hated crying too but she’s been doing it because of me. “I feel like part of this was my fault.” she murmured. I was taken aback, “Mom, how could this possibly be your fault?”

   She shook her head, “With everything that happened with Wisteria, I never went to the Council when I turned 18. I wasn’t taught properly and your father wasn’t royalty. We never thought to send you there, but now we are paying for that. I’ve never been away from you for more than a few days. If only I had taught you better, this wouldn’t be happening.” 

   I jumped off the bed, ignoring the stiffness in my joints. I pulled her into a fierce hug. “Mom, what are you talking about? You raised us the best way you knew; regardless of official training or not. Besides, the training would have gone out the window. You taught us family first. Everyone still would’ve reacted the same way.” I admitted. Mom giggled, “You’re right. Your aunts and I would’ve done the same thing.” She hugged me tighter, her warmth easing the panic in my tense muscles. 

    “I feel so stupid. Because of me, we are being forced to leave. I’m scared to go. I just wanted to be happy.” I confessed. “Don’t talk like that. I know you’re scared, baby. I’m scared too. I don’t trust the Council and I have no power to help you. It’s just for six months, but please be careful.” she said, wrapping her hands around my neck. When she pulled back, I felt warm metal resting against my chest.

     “Why are you giving me GG’s necklace?” I squeaked. “Gwen has watched over me my entire life, even after she passed. I want you to keep it.” she said with a small smile. I opened my mouth to protest but she cut me off. “The Council used to be her stomping grounds. Knowing she’s there with you three will help me feel better.” Damn it. 

      “Ok, mama. But I’ll be giving it back when I come home.” I said matter-of-factly. She laughed, “Of course. I brought you some clothes. Hurry up and get change, your brother and sister are waiting for you.” She gave me another squeeze before leaving. I got dressed then made my way to the door. I caught up with mom, grabbing her hand as we made our way back to the pack house. 

     The family was waiting in the lobby. “Autumn!” Nova squealed. She crushed me in her hug. “I’m so glad you’re ok.” she whispered in my ear. I pulled back and smirked, “Me too. Thank you for coming for me.” Nova gave me a cheeky smile. “Don’t you dare smile like that, you’re still in trouble, missy.” Phoebe chided, Nova pouted and started to plead her case. I was going to miss this.

    I struggled to hold back my tears as I watched August bring down the last of my luggage. Summer stood in the corner with her arms crossed, avoiding eye contact with him, while August shot small glances in her direction. Hmm, something must’ve happened between them. Dad walked in followed by two well-dressed men. They must be with the Council. I held my breath, so this was really happening. 

   “Kids, these are Council members Vincent Lanston and Thaddeus Paine.” Dad introduced them. August shook their hands and greeted them. “It’s a pleasure to meet you again.” Vincent smiled brightly. “Yes, the last time we were here was for your mother’s Alpha ceremony, but you three were only a few months old.” Thaddeus commented. They laughed along with my brother. 

      I felt Phoebe stiffen up next to me. I tilted my head in confusion, “What’s wrong?” She gave me a weak smile and shook her head. Weird. “I presume everyone is packed?” Vincent asked. “Yes, sir.” we answered. “Good, please say your goodbyes. We need to be back at headquarters by sundown.” Thaddeus advised. August started the round of hugs and tears. By the time I got to my parents, I was a blubbering mess.

    Mom wiped my tears, “You’re gonna be ok. Listen to your brother and watch over your sister.” I just nodded, still in shock from everything that has happened. I didn’t want to go. I wish I never went to Silver Valley, I wish I never fell for Quincy. “Be a good girl.” Dad said gruffly, his eyes glimmering. I moved over to Summer who stood at the door, tight-lipped. I reached out to her, she accepted me with a shaky hand. She always put on a brave face, but I knew she was scared too.

   The Councilmen ushered us into blacked out SUV. Vincent droned on while Thaddeus drove to the airport. The Council Headquarters was located in Phoenix, Arizona. I was anxious and curious to see what the city was like. August was polite to keep up the small talk, Summer didn’t bother. She sat quietly, holding my hand and staring out the window. She didn’t let go, even when we boarded the plane. 

         It was a quick flight, too quick. Our chaperones hurried us into a rental and sped towards our destination. “Alright, we are almost there.” Vincent said, his smile never leaving his face. I broke out in a cold sweat as a massive gated facility came into view. We drove down a long paved driveway, my heart thundered loudly as we got closer.

     The car rolled to a stop and the Council members coaxed us out. “Just a quick tour. Headquarters has six buildings. We have the main administrative building where classes are held. The offices here are where you’re assigned your missions. The kitchen and dining hall are also here. The other buildings are the library, the training center and field, two dormitories and the sanctuary.” Vincent advised. 

      “The humans think this is a private college campus. It allows us to have privacy and explains the constant flow of members.” Thaddeus added. I stared up at the main building. It was two stories high and carried an intimidating air. “It looks like a prison.” Summer murmured. August elbowed me when I started to snicker. “Please follow me. Your fellow classmates are waiting.” Vincent announced.

    “Classmates?” my question mirrored my siblings. Thaddeus and Vincent looked at us in confusion. “The Elders didn’t tell you?” Thaddeus looked displeased as we shook our heads. “You will be joined by four others who are in… similar conditions as you.” Vincent quipped. “So, they’re royal f**k ups too.” Summer muttered under her breath. August covered his laugh with a cough while Vincent pursed his lips. “This way please.” Thaddeus ushered us into the main building. The corridors were dark and quiet. 

     We followed him into a large office where multiple people were already waiting. Thaddeus motioned for us to stand near the group. The door opened, admitting three of the most wrinkliest people I’ve ever seen. Thaddeus and Vincent took a bow before them as they took their seats. “Now that everyone has gathered, lets us begin.” the oldest one said, his voice was low and slow. 

     Vincent nodded, “We will start with introductions. Before you, stand the three head Councilmen that run this organization. Lucas Versum third son of the Second Demon lord. Olivia Ludwig of the Trinity Coven. And Iosai Riktu from the Elven kingdom of Dosah.” Each ancient member nodded at their title. “The new class will now introduce themselves.” Vincent gave our group an expectant look.

     One of the blonde haired guys stepped forward. “I’m Samuel Solomon, and this is my brother Hudson. We are direct descendants of the fourth vampire clan, Necrosis.” his deep voice boomed. Samuel and Hudson shared similar looks; they both had blonde hair, cold dark down eyes, sharp cheeks and muscular builds. They’re kinda hot, Summer linked me. I frowned while she smirked, avoiding my elbow meant for her ribs. I tried to hold back the shiver that ran down my spine, I really didn't want to get involved with either of them. 

      A tall female with messy waist length curly black and olive skin stepped forward. She adjusted her large dimmed glasses then spoke, “My name is Ziva, Gorgon Princess of Hesoteus.” I covered my mouth to avoid gapping at her. The Hesoteus family were one of the richest royals in the world and came from the direct line of Medusa. “Damn, that’s dope.” Summer murmured. Ziva gave her a smile, revealing her yellow snake-like eyes. The last female cleared her throat, hiding her face from us.

    “I’m Penelope Tarragon, descendant of the first Dragon of Midhaven.” she said shyly. Penelope looked young and innocent, her demeanor scared. I gave her an encouraging smile, which she returned with an anxious head bob. August stood straighter; we were next. “August Frost, Alpha of Crescent Woods and direct descendant of Celeste. These are my sisters, Autumn Frost and that’s Summer Frost, the last Female Alpha of our kind.” 

   I bit my lip, I hated introducing myself. Both of my siblings had titles that they could claim, but I had nothing. I always felt like there was nothing special about me. I felt inferior next to them, unneeded. My heart grew cold, this was why I had been searching for my mate like a psycho. I wanted a place to belong. I wanted my title to be more than just ‘sister’ or ‘daughter’. I wanted to be someone’s mate, a mother; I wanted to be needed, to be important.

   Head Councilwoman Olivia grumbled in her seat, “Descendant of Celeste, are you from the Wisteria Forest?” “Yes.” Summer answered proudly. Olivia squinted at her, “Stay out of my garden.” Summer frowned and stammered over her words, “Y-Yes ma’am.” I giggled in understanding. Olivia must’ve been the council member whose garden was ruined when Grandma Liatris first came for training.

     “We at the Council would like to welcome all of you. For most of you, it has been a long day so we will have orientation in the morning. Thaddeus will show you to your rooms.” The oldest raisin dismissed us. Thaddeus led the way back outside and towards the dorms. Summer looked around and grabbed Penelope’s hand. She whispered something to her that had Penelope giggling; successfully working her big sister charm. Summer then turned and immediately struck up a conversation with Ziva. 

    August hung back with Hudson and Samuel. They had a tense atmosphere but by the time Thaddeus walked us up to our floor, they were all chuckling. Penelope had grabbed my hand as we made our way down the hall. Her presence here was confusing. She had no signs or mischief or mayhem. I wonder what she did to get sent here. This was one hell of a class. Two descendants of Necrosis, Medusa’s kid and a dragon; all troublemakers. Poor Thaddeus was going to have his hands full.

       Thaddeus stopped and pointed, “The men are on this side, and women on this side. Your names are on your doors. Breakfast is served at 0700 and orientation starts at 0800. I’ll see you in the morning.” Thaddeus took his leave. Summer gave me a quick hug then shuffled the girls towards their rooms. August did the same with the guys then patted my shoulder. “Are you ok?” his face was worried.   

   I shook my head, “Are we gonna be ok here?” August shrugged, “I hope so. I think this will be good for us. You and Summer will be out of the house and you’re already making friends. You might like it here and become an official member. And, who knows, maybe we’ll find our mates. Try not to worry about it and get some sleep sis.” He gave me a quick hug before disappearing into his room.

    I opened the door that held my name and entered. My luggage was already waiting, reminding me of how long we would have to be here. Summer was right, this did feel like a prison. I tugged off my pants and slid into the bed. The pillows smelled dusty and the bed was hard. This was going to be a long six months.