Chapter 64. The Ceremony

Xerina’s POV

Papa’s deep, authoritative voice broke through my thoughts, drawing the attention of everyone in the hall. He stood up, and I knew he was about to address the next part of the day’s ceremonies.

“Anyways, today,” Papa began resonantly, “we will commence with the Ancestral Invocation, a ceremony that has been a tradition in our pack for centuries. Each Alpha and their respective family will participate in the invocation, offering their prayers and respect to the ancestral spirits.”

His words hung in the air, and for once, I forced myself to listen. I needed the distraction, something to ground me in the present moment, to keep my mind from spiraling further.

Papa continued as he swept his gaze over the room. “The invocation will take place in the sacred grove, where the spirits are said to be closest to us. We will begin by lighting the ceremonial flames, followed by offerings of blood and incense. Rasmus will lead the ritual.”

I felt