[Proving Alpha Status] is a fantasy werewolf novel. [Amazon US].
The ebook will be free on Amazon from March 13th to March 17th. [Free Ebook Sale?]
[Content Warning for Proving Alpha Status] Triggers/ concerns should be considered before reading this short story. The short stories of the novels try to stick with the same possible content warnings although should never hit all of them.
I’m gonna refrain of any of the scenes that would lean into trigger content though. You can imagine what happened in Ryan’s church time.
The Black Locust
It’s exhausting. Didn’t think I’d be in this situation at eighteen. I pace the woods wishing I could bring wolf out. But she only offers worry and fear. I can’t shift out of cycle.
I know why. Alpha. She was not a pleasant person to deal with. And she would not take kindly to stepping into my werewolf skills.
But I’m not just a werewolf. I’m also a shaman. I can train still. Just not with what I want to. “Ignore Grandpa’s words about everything.” I don’t trust him. If he can’t step up and be called alpha, he is more a danger than a help. I’d even call him a threat when we’re talking stability of pack.
^Stacy?^ The words come from a wisp of being not real life. None of the wolves have linked to me anyway. Minus Mother, but that’s not a new thing. The only who speaks inside my head the most now is the person who did before I left Agentha, just now he’s dead.
I focus on my father ignoring where I place my hand and pull back when the tree I leaned on attacks. Not that trees can attack. This one just has thorns and I wasn’t playing attention.
^Perfect. Now see your blood seep into the tree. Bind with it.^
“Your words make no sense, Dad.” Still I try to follow the request. I should manage to establish a link and use the tree as a piece of me. Offer my blood and energy, connect with the life force, and…
Nothing.
I can feel the tree. I can feel my blood. But it doesn’t feel to be a match.
It has me annoyed. “Maybe a different tree?”
^You need more time practicing. A tree is not a werewolf.^
I look at the spirit of my father. He’s patient with me. Shamanism isn’t an easy skill. And he’s dead. Dead people have all the time in the world.
Not really, but Dad suggests that he has all the time now compared to when he was living. How long will he be able to annoy me? He never leaves for long. I even get to hear about my little brother, which helps. Can’t mind when he leaves if he returns with such knowledge.
^You can try a different tree, but I don’t think it’s the tree.^
“It’s me.” I know the real answer. “I need to grow.” I sit before the tree letting the thorns dig into me. My blood will help. But I must be careful I don’t call something dangerous. I’m not very skilled, not compared to most of pack.
^That’s it. Meditate. You’ll get it one day.^
“Thanks, Dad. I’ll get it. I just need time to figure it out.” I settle into my meditation. I will get it. One day. Can’t hate on myself for not grasping things the first time I face them. Everyone needs practice.
You can buy the ebook or paperback of Proving Alpha Status on Amazon (US).
If you have any specific questions about any of my books, let me know. I am always willing to talk about my work.
Cat Hartliebe 