Cutting the Braid

by Jett Masterson

‘The alpha, whose place is that of protector and provider. They are blessed with strength and the deep instinct to love, and keep the ones they love safe and happy. This is why they are marked with ink. The legends tell us that the power of an alpha was built into their skin and muscle, and why their ceremonial tattoos are sacred and carefully chosen. Their tattoos convey their purpose and affirm their responsibilities. This is why they are marked with the name of their mate and eventually their pups in the ceremonies of claiming. They must know it both with their souls as well as their bodies that they must protect the ones they bear responsibility for. ‘The beta, whose place is that of the peacekeeper and thinker. They are blessed with intelligence and clarity and are hailed as great leaders. The legends tell us that the power of the beta lies in the mind, and this is why they are marked upon the temple with the sign of infinity, to signify their unlimited nature. Their roles are the most flexible, as they are able to bond most freely. A beta is the very pillar that keeps the ceiling of our world from crashing down.