Chapter 105: Return of Viktor

Reika's hands rose to calm the crowd she said, "I understand your fears, and I am fully aware of the fact that what stands ahead of us is a challenge. Let me, however, reassure you that the kingdom is not bereft of its leading mate. Alpha Ileus-your alpha-would want us strong during his absence." A cold, accusing voice boomed from among the crowd. "How are we to trust you with leading us? You are wolfless! The kingdom needs strength, not weaknesses." The tension snapped, and with it, the frustration of the masses poured out. Reika's heart was pained at the words, but she stood her ground, trying to talk them down. "Please!" she pleaded, her voice echoing across the courtyard. "I have given everything to the kingdom and I'm doing absolutely everything I can to-" She was immediately interrupted by the riding of horses. At the front and leading the others was a man who looked like Alpha Ileus-except his features were leaner, his hair blacker, his aura filled with violence. Viktor. Viktor, half-brother to Alpha Ileus-for years legend and rumor said he no longer existed, others said he was dead. He swung off with practiced ease, his piercing gaze sweeping the crowd until coming to rest on Reika. The faintest hint of a smirk tugged his lips as he strode toward her, his men falling silently in behind. The crowd parted for him like a sea; the murmurs were now tinged with curiosity and hope. Viktor reached the steps, bowed slightly to Reika, and turned to address the people. "Citizens," boomed Viktor's deep voice, silencing all. "I understand your concerns. These are uncertain times, and uncertainty begets fear. But let me assure you-this kingdom is not devoid of leadership." He nodded gravely in the direction of Reika. "This woman, your Luna, has stood tall against everything cast her way. She has led with grace and strength despite disasters overtaking her. Trust in her like my brother did." "You have my word," Viktor finally said, eyes sweeping across the massed gathering. "This kingdom is in safe hands. Stand by your Luna, and together we'll weather this storm." The crowd erupted into applause. She watched in stunned surprise as the tide of sentiment suddenly turned, those that would have doubted her now bowing their heads in respect. Later that night, Reika sat across from Viktor in the grand dining hall of the castle. Dancing candlelight marked every sharp angle on his face, and she could hardly look away from him, stirring inside a mixture of gratitude and curiosity. "Thanks for what you did today," she said softly. "I don't know how you managed to soothe them, but I am grateful." Viktor drank wine, his dark eyes glinting with humor. "That was easy, as all I had to give them was assurance-which was rightly theirs to have." Reika leaned her head, her eyes boring into his. "Where have you been all these years, Viktor? Why now? Why return when the kingdom is in turmoil? He leaned back in his chair as a reflective look crossed his features. "Does it matter where I have been? What does matter is that I'm here now, when you need me most." Reika frowned, ill at ease beneath the evasion in her own answer. "It does matter. You have been away such a long time, and then you return, giving commands as if you never had left. I have to know why." A faint smile hooked Viktor's mouth. "You were always so tenacious." Setting his goblet on the table, he leaned toward her, his shoulder tipping forward slightly. "Truthfully, Reika, I returned for you." Her breath stopped in her throat as her eyes enlarged in surprise. "For me?" He nodded, his gaze unyielding. "I have watched from the shadows, seen the weight you carry, the strength you possess. You deserve so much better than the doubts and accusations they throw at you. I came back because I could not stand by and watch you suffer anymore." Reika shook her head, her voice barely above a whisper. "Viktor, I'm married to Ileus. You know that. "And I respect that," he hastened to add, the repentance in his voice instant. "It doesn't alter the feelings that I possess, however. I expect nothing from you, Reika. Only that you may know where to find me-if you should need anything at all." Her heart ached with his words, her mind confused, yet riddled with guilt, all in one go. She looked away, her mind jumbled in thoughts. As the meal trudged along in silent uncomfortability, Viktor piped up a second time-this time, the lilt decidedly serious. "There is yet something else." Reika set her gaze back on him as her brow furrowed. "What?" "Ileus," Viktor started, his normal calm intact. "I might have a way of helping him out." Reika's eyes popped open wide in paralyzed silence; her heart literally jumping into her throat. "You do? What? Tell me." Viktor hesitated, his expression guarded. "It's not that simple. The method I'm thinking of. it's dangerous. It requires knowledge of ancient magic—magic that hasn't been practiced in centuries." "I don't care how dangerous it is," Reika replied, her tone firm. "If there is a chance to save him, I will do whatever is needed." Viktor watched her for long moments, his eyes searching. Then he nodded. "Very well. But before I tell you, you need to understand the risks. This magic.it doesn't just take strength and willpower. It takes sacrifice." Reika's stomach twisted at the word, but she didn't back down, meeting his gaze with a steadfast expression. "Whatever it takes, Viktor. Tell me what I must do." He leaned forward, and his voice dropped to a near whisper. "Then we begin at dawn." She watched him rise from the table, commanding even in dim light, as her brain seemed to swirl and eddy with questions and doubts; yet one thing became clear: if even the least glimmer of hope for Ileus existed, she would seize it. These were words that clung to her, filling her with anxiety and determination as Viktor walked away. What would the sacrifice be that needed to be made? Was this enough for the return of Ileus?