Chapter 53 Homecoming

• Remnants of our conversation linger in my mind, and there is a lot to process. Being part of a prophecy is kind of a big deal, and it comes with massive responsibility. Try as I might, I can’t figure out why so much pain has to come with greatness. Sure, pain can motivate people and bring out hidden strength, but so can happiness. Why couldn’t I have followed the same path without having my heart ripped in two? If it was fate for me to give Kosta an heir, did he really have to sleep with Khalis while we were fully mated and risk the life of the promised heir?
• "Zel," Sapphire’s soothing voice breaks through my thoughts. "The goddess has her reasons for everything. But remember, you are part human, which gives you free will. No matter what plan the goddess has for her wolves, the humans involved still have choices. In Kosta’s case, we had already decided to leave, so our path was set. The bond between me and Emill was already strained, but Kosta had the free will to do what he did. Although the goddess is love and light, dark forces exist and fight against that light. They use circumstances to try to dim the light in the world. Kosta allowed himself to be influenced by that darkness through his pride. Overinflated pride is a struggle for alpha males, and if left unchecked, it leads to their fall."
• "I know, Sapphy. It’s just a lot to think about."