The Alphas' Pride Mate (The Pride Who Goes Into Heat)

MATE'S DISTRESS.

Chapter: 36
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The wait ended, and upon their return to Crystal Lake Pack, one of their brother's packlands, Tricc promptly ordered the table to be set with their favorite meals. As the servants scurried off to prepare the feast, the triplets chose their rooms and indulged in a well-deserved shower, as if they hadn't enjoyed one in the past five days. Refreshed and dressed in clean clothes, the brothers descended the stairs, each pausing on the final step of the split staircase. Sporting matching smiles, they made their way toward the dining room where their preferred dishes were already laid out.

Tricc claimed his seat at the head of the table, Seth settled in the middle, and Kurt took his place at the opposite end. Two Omegas gracefully served the meal, pouring drinks and cutting fruits, and then the brothers eagerly began to savor their food.

While relishing the comforting flavors, Tricc took a moment to reflect on the recent challenges he faced as the pack's leader. He had tirelessly worked to control the troublesome Rogues, the wolves who seemed to continuously disrupt their territory.

"Guys, you won't believe the rollercoaster ride I've been on dealing with those Rogues," Tricc began, his voice betraying a mix of pride and exhaustion. "But I believe we're finally making progress. We've implemented stricter patrol schedules, reinforced our borders, and strengthened alliances with neighboring packs. It's been intense, but I can confidently say we're starting to see genuine improvement."

Seth nodded, his gaze brimming with admiration. "You've always had a knack for handling tough situations, Tricc. It's no surprise that you're making strides. We're fortunate to have you leading us."

Kurt chimed in with a playful grin. "Yeah, Tricc, our very own pack leader extraordinaire! Who would've thought our little brother would end up taming werewolves instead of chasing tail!"

Laughter erupted from the brothers, filling the dining room with their joyous voices. Kurt was the joker of the group, always finding a way to lighten the mood. His playful banter was a trademark, and they all cherished how he could bring a smile to their faces even in the most challenging times.

With their plates nearly empty, the conversation shifted to Kurt's romantic misadventures or rather, his avoidance of commitment. His charm seemed to work wonders on anyone, resulting in the arrival of two children from different shifters.

"Ah, Kurt, when will you learn?" Tricc teased. "You're going to have your hands full with all those little ones running around."

Kurt shrugged, mischief twinkling in his eyes. "I've got enough energy to handle a whole pack of children. Besides, Tricc, you're the one with the real parenting skills. I've seen how you interact with the young ones in the pack. They adore you."

Their conversation flowed seamlessly, blending serious moments with lightheartedness. They discussed pack affairs, family matters, and everything in between. As the meal drew to a close, their appetites satisfied, and their spirits lifted, the brothers pushed their chairs back and prepared to depart the dining room.

Tricc rose to his feet, exuding a commanding presence that resonated with authority. "My brothers, tonight has been truly fulfilling. I am proud of our accomplishments and the bond we share."

Seth and Kurt nodded with genuine warmth in their expressions. Seth spoke on behalf of both of them, "We are grateful to have you as our brother and pack leader, Tricc."

"Most importantly, we have regained our pheromones and control over our abilities. It's been five days, and we've managed to keep ourselves in check. That's no small feat," Kurt added, giving his brother a quick side hug. "Thank you for taking such good care of us, Tracie. We truly appreciate everything."

Tricc playfully held Kurt in a headlock and gave him a gentle slap on the head, causing Kurt to whine and cry out, which in turn made Seth burst into laughter. "I warned you when we were ten never to call me Tracie!" Tricc slapped him again, then released him.

Seth stepped forward to embrace Tricc, and the two men held each other warmly. "Thank you, brother," Seth whispered.

Tricc smiled a rare sight that illuminated his hazel eyes. "Thank you," he murmured in response. "I wouldn't have made it through the first night without both of you."

Kurt and Tricc then engaged in their usual banter, while Seth exchanged amused glances between the two. Their playful bickering was a familiar part of their routine when they gathered like this. From a young age, they had always been like that with each other. In truth, they were fiercely protective of one another... they all were.

With that, the brothers departed from the dining room and made their way towards the compound, where living quarters were located. As they reached their respective vehicles, they bid each other farewell, knowing they would reconvene soon for another fulfilling dinner and more heartfelt conversations.

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The moon carried a sense of unrest through the night. Riding in the back of their cars, the Alphas couldn't help but sense the heavy atmosphere surrounding them. The starless sky offered only the moon's glow, and the stillness of the night seemed to drain the energy from the car. They drove through the darkness, their headlights piercing through the blackness, illuminating the path ahead. Both Alphas felt a deep exhaustion that had not been present during dinner. Seth, deciding to keep their mental link open, slumped in his seat, attempting to find a position that would ease the turmoil in his heart and calm his nerves. However, even that proved futile. Kurt's voice broke into their link, causing Seth to blink rapidly and sit up straight once again.

"What did you say?" Seth asked, realizing he hadn't caught his brother's words as he had been lost in his own thoughts.

"I feel uneasy. It's a terrible sensation," Kurt confessed, his voice tinged with confusion. After a brief silence, he continued, "Am I the only one feeling this way?"

Seth shook his head slowly. "No... I feel it too."

"I started feeling this way as soon as your cars left my Pack," Tricc murmured, his gaze shifting to his Beta, Rafe, who stood beside him.

"What could be the problem now?" Seth inquired.

Silence enveloped them once more until Kurt finally broke it. "I believe it has to do with him," he revealed, prompting both Tricc and Seth to inhale deeply. "I think he's in trouble. This could be a sign from him," Kurt finished, his voice growing more somber with each word.

"Then how do we uncover the truth? And, more importantly, how do we even begin to locate him?" Tricc's voice trembled with worry, causing Rafe, who stood beside him, to share his concern.

"Dr. Creiff," Seth suggested urgently, "bring him into the Link, now!" He commanded Tricc, who immediately contacted the Pack doctor. As Creiff's voice entered the Link, Seth wasted no time in speaking.

"Creiff, we suspect something is wrong with our Mate. We feel a sense of unease, and there's a noticeable change within us. Our Lycgers are silent as well. What could be the matter?" Seth inquired, his words laced with urgency.

"I advise Tricc to hasten to the Elder and seek immediate answers... If your Mate is truly in trouble, you won't be able to hear his Lion's call, nor will you be able to locate him, given that you are all still mastering control over your pheromones and strength. A meeting with Elder Matthias will shed light on the hidden truth," Creiff advised. Before he could finish his statement, Tricc had already left the office, transforming mid-air as he raced down the wooded road toward the Elder's cottage.

"Please keep me informed," Creiff began, preparing to sever the Link. However, Seth's voice interjected.

"No, stay, Creiff. We need you to relay everything that is happening to our Birth Omega... You must stay and hear what the Elder has to say."

Creiff nodded, even though they couldn't see him. "Yes, of course."