EMAL As I prepare for school, my ears catch whispers from a group of maids near the Luna’s chambers. Normally, I wouldn’t pay them any attention, but there’s something about the hushed urgency in their voices that piques my curiosity. Instinctively, I slow my pace, focusing on their conversation. “She’s lucky—so lucky,” one of them murmurs. “Can you believe we, mere maids, are privileged to witness something like this?” “What did I miss?” another voice joins in, clearly arriving late to the discussion. “Shh! Keep your voice down,” one of them warns before sighing. “It’s about Norla and Harvey.” I recognize those names immediately. Norla is the Luna’s personal maid, and Harvey is one of the castle guards—one of her trusted people. “What about them?” the newcomer asks. “Wait… Harvey, the guard?” “Of course, who else?” “Alright, spill it.” “Norla’s been sneaking into Harvey’s room every night. It’s been going on for about two weeks now.” “That’s not exactly a surprise.
EMAL I watch as Norla approaches the hidden compartment, her expression unreadable. Instead of alarm, her reaction suggests familiarity. She knows about this obviously. The maids were right. Being the Luna’s right-hand person who does the dirty tasks for her, she probably knows what the scent and liquid is all about. "Oh, not again" she murmurs. I position myself properly in order to see everything she is doing. While the secret compartment remains open, Norla proceeds to search for a piece of cloth within a nearby box. Suddenly, a deep, hushed murmur emerges from within the concealed space. "Where is her ladyship?" Norla flinches, nearly losing her balance. "Hey, careful." Recognition dawns upon her as the voice continues and her tense posture gradually relaxes. She clutches her chest, exhaling sharply. "That was close. You scared the hell out of me." "I didn’t mean to." The voice is familiar. Maddeningly so. I strain to recall who it belongs to, but my mind wouldn’t coop
EMAL "Blake's father?" Lilly repeats, looking away as if lost in thought. I narrow my eyes, sensing something in her expression. "What is it? Something wrong?" "It's nothing," she replies quickly, but I can tell her mind is racing. "Something just came to mind. Do you remember when you saw someone come with the man in the hidden garden? The one covered by an illusion?" "Of course, I do. How could I forget?" Lilly crosses her arms. "The garden and the Luna's room… both connected to the same person. Doesn't that tell you something?" I nod, the pieces clicking together. "Yeah. Aleiscter wouldn't dare deliver something like that without an order from Blake’s father. He even admitted it himself. Anyone with a brain can see that Blake's father has something going on with the Luna. There's a plan—something they’re scheming together. I don’t know what it is yet, but I have a bad feeling about all of this. And I hate that I can’t figure it out." Lilly listens quietly, with rapt at
MATILDA Returning from school, I'm eager to hear what the guard I sent to trail Emal has discovered about Emal's activities. I can't shake off the feeling that there's more to the whole issue than meets the eye. Just when I am about to call for his presence, he steps in. "Good evening, my lady," he greets, bowing in respect. "Did you find anything?" I ask, knowing how cautious Emal can be. He might have noticed he was being followed and changed his plans. "Yes, my lady. I observed the Crowned Prince Alpha throughout the day, just as you instructed. He didn’t leave for school as early as usual. Instead, he went into Her Ladyship’s chamber shortly after she left the castle." I frown slightly. "Are you saying he was in my mother’s room?" "Yes, Your Highness. He stayed there for quite some time. When he finally emerged, he was holding a vellum, clutching it as if it were of great importance. But I couldn’t determine what was written on it." My curiosity deepens. "And after tha
MATILDA I move swiftly through the hallway, my heart pounding. My mind races with thoughts of Emal, the vellum, and the secrets I’m so close to unveiling. But as I round a corner, I freeze in place. Standing just outside Emal’s room is the last person I expected to see—my father. The Alpha. His sharp gaze locks onto me, his expression unreadable. Time stands still and I can feel his eyes assessing me, taking in my slightly disheveled state. He knows something is off. "Matilda," he calls, his voice deep. "What are you doing here?" I force a calm expression and meet his gaze. "I was looking for Emal, Father. I thought he might be in his room, but he wasn’t. I wanted to ask him something." His brows furrow slightly, as if trying to see through my lie. "You seem flustered," he notes, stepping closer and cupping my face in his hands. I steady my breathing. "I must have just been in a hurry. Nothing to worry about." His suspicions linger, but after a moment, he nods. I rele
MATILDA Wait! What? How in hell? I replayed the scene I heard in my head. Did I hear that correctly? Emal... my little brother… isn’t actually my blood sibling? A shiver runs through me as reality crashes down, shattering the foundation of everything I once believed. I’ve always loved Emal like my own—protected him, played with him, stood by him. And now, in an instant, everything has changed. My fingers curl into fists, my breath shallow as emotions swirl in a chaotic storm. Betrayal. Confusion. Anger. How could they? How could my parents keep such a life-altering secret? Why was this hidden from me, from everyone? And who… who is Athena to him? The innocence of my bond with feels tainted, and I can't help but wonder about the woman who gave birth to him and what her place is in our lives. Tears stream down my face, and I'm paralyzed by a sense of betrayal, not just from my parents but from the very concept of family itself. I don't know how to confront them, or if I even sh
EMAL I know my sister all too well—her curiosity, her persistence, and her inability to let a mystery rest. The moment I sensed someone had entered my room in my absence, I had my suspicions. Now, as Matilda stands before me, feigning innocence, I piece everything together. She must have had a reason for sneaking into my room earlier. A part of me wants to confront her immediately, to demand why she was here and what she was searching for. But I hold back. There’s no need to cause unnecessary tension—not yet. Instead, I choose patience, knowing that sooner or later, she’ll come to me with questions. She always does. As night falls, I sense her presence even before she knocks. "Come in, you don’t need to create a noise," I call out. She steps inside, scanning the room. Her gaze falls on the vellum, exactly where I left it. "I guess you’ve returned," she says casually. "Not too long ago," I reply. She moves toward my desk, glancing at the vellum once more before turning to m
EMAL By the time we step into the throne hall, the heavy double doors closing behind us, I already sense the weight of the stares. The grand chamber, with its towering pillars and the ever-present scent of burning cedar, feels more suffocating than usual. Father seats on the large, power exuding throne, his piercing gaze sweeping over us the moment we enter. At his right stands Master Aldrien, his Beta. His arms are crossed, expression unreadable, but there’s no mistaking the sharp edge in his eyes. Asides Father and Master Aldrien, our three older brothers are equally seated on the lined chairs down the throne. "Finally," Shawl drawls. "Norla delivered the message earlier. What took you both so long?" I barely part my lips before Matilda moves slightly forward, ready to respond. But before she can, our father raises a hand. "Let it be, Shawl," he says, firmly. "What matters is that they are here." Matilda spares him a grateful smile. If he notices, he doesn’t react, merely shi
EMALThe outdoor celebration soon begins as ordered by the Alpha.The sun casts a warm, amber glow over the courtyard, where silk banners ripple in the breeze—each one bearing the royal sigil: a silver wolf howling beneath a crescent moon with touch of an irregular design I actually didn't take interest to know what it means.The nobles who are only for the outdoor event are already arriving, dressed in their finest silks and ceremonial armor. Guests are laughing with the distant tune of flutes and lyres, and warriors perform blade dances at the prepared spot for them.At the far end of the courtyard, a raised platform has been arranged for the royal family. Elegant, high-backed chairs are ready for the Alphas and royal figures of our pack and other packs. Just below the platform, the rest of us—royal-borns, nobles, pack warriors of the White Fur Pack—stand in place, waiting to begin the ceremonial rite.Despite the lively atmosphere, I can't shake the chill running down my spine. It i
EMALThe Luna's Birthday.After days of preparation, it is finally the D-day. As scheduled, the events are divided into two major participations. Starting off will be the indoor event taking place in the throne hall which includes prayers, gifting, and small dances from dance troupes. Then, the outdoor event is scheduled for later in the day, in the open field of White Fur Pack. The throne hall is a grand, intimidating place; high ceilings adorned with ravelled carvings, golden chandeliers, and brown banners hanging in deep earth-like colours, bearing the symbol of our pack. The room is filled with the scent of fresh lilies, the Luna’s favorite, arranged meticulously along the walls and on the long banquet table. People from the royal family are around already and also esteemed guests invited for the indoor event.The Luna sits beside the Alpha on the elevated dais, poised and elegant in her embroidered silver gown. Her dark hair is pulled back in a crown of woven braids, and desp
EMALMaster Aldrien intertwines his fingers, resting his hands on the desk. His gaze darts to the book I placed before him, but he says nothing at first."Can you tell me more about power sharing?" I ask.His brows crease, and he leans back in his chair, studying me with curiosity and caution. "Power sharing?" he echoes. "What exactly do you mean by that, Emal?"Wordlessly, I flip open the book, turning to the page that caught my attention earlier. I slide it toward him, tapping the passage with my finger. "This. It talks about someone who used power sharing to win a fight. But it doesn’t explain how."Master Aldrien exhales slowly, his shoulders visibly relaxing as he takes in the words on the page. A long, unreadable silence stretches between us before I break it."So," I press, watching him closely. "Do you know how to take power from your opponent?"His eyes snap to mine, and his expression hardens. "I don’t know what you’re talking about."Liar.I recognize the way his eyes twitc
EMAL I can't stop thinking about what Father said in the throne hall. Everyone has dispersed, but I remain outside, waiting for him. I need to talk to him—perhaps he will change his mind. "Don't waste your time, Emal," Matilda advises before leaving. "In times like this, he never goes back on his word." She's right. I know she is. But it's worth a try. Minutes later, Master Aldrien walks out of the throne hall, documents in hand. "What's wrong, Emal?" he asks, concerned. I shake my head. "It's nothing." "You're still here to see the Alpha, aren't you?" "Yes," I answer reluctantly. Talking to him is worth a shot. "Master Aldrien, I know my father listens to you more than anyone. If there's anyone who can talk to him right now, it's you. I can't take up the task he's given me. How does he expect me to go up against strong warriors? Everyone knows how dangerous the Blood Reckoning is." Master Aldrien places a hand on my shoulder. "Calm down, Emal," he says, tilting my face toward
EMAL By the time we step into the throne hall, the heavy double doors closing behind us, I already sense the weight of the stares. The grand chamber, with its towering pillars and the ever-present scent of burning cedar, feels more suffocating than usual. Father seats on the large, power exuding throne, his piercing gaze sweeping over us the moment we enter. At his right stands Master Aldrien, his Beta. His arms are crossed, expression unreadable, but there’s no mistaking the sharp edge in his eyes. Asides Father and Master Aldrien, our three older brothers are equally seated on the lined chairs down the throne. "Finally," Shawl drawls. "Norla delivered the message earlier. What took you both so long?" I barely part my lips before Matilda moves slightly forward, ready to respond. But before she can, our father raises a hand. "Let it be, Shawl," he says, firmly. "What matters is that they are here." Matilda spares him a grateful smile. If he notices, he doesn’t react, merely shi
EMAL I know my sister all too well—her curiosity, her persistence, and her inability to let a mystery rest. The moment I sensed someone had entered my room in my absence, I had my suspicions. Now, as Matilda stands before me, feigning innocence, I piece everything together. She must have had a reason for sneaking into my room earlier. A part of me wants to confront her immediately, to demand why she was here and what she was searching for. But I hold back. There’s no need to cause unnecessary tension—not yet. Instead, I choose patience, knowing that sooner or later, she’ll come to me with questions. She always does. As night falls, I sense her presence even before she knocks. "Come in, you don’t need to create a noise," I call out. She steps inside, scanning the room. Her gaze falls on the vellum, exactly where I left it. "I guess you’ve returned," she says casually. "Not too long ago," I reply. She moves toward my desk, glancing at the vellum once more before turning to m
MATILDA Wait! What? How in hell? I replayed the scene I heard in my head. Did I hear that correctly? Emal... my little brother… isn’t actually my blood sibling? A shiver runs through me as reality crashes down, shattering the foundation of everything I once believed. I’ve always loved Emal like my own—protected him, played with him, stood by him. And now, in an instant, everything has changed. My fingers curl into fists, my breath shallow as emotions swirl in a chaotic storm. Betrayal. Confusion. Anger. How could they? How could my parents keep such a life-altering secret? Why was this hidden from me, from everyone? And who… who is Athena to him? The innocence of my bond with feels tainted, and I can't help but wonder about the woman who gave birth to him and what her place is in our lives. Tears stream down my face, and I'm paralyzed by a sense of betrayal, not just from my parents but from the very concept of family itself. I don't know how to confront them, or if I even sh
MATILDA I move swiftly through the hallway, my heart pounding. My mind races with thoughts of Emal, the vellum, and the secrets I’m so close to unveiling. But as I round a corner, I freeze in place. Standing just outside Emal’s room is the last person I expected to see—my father. The Alpha. His sharp gaze locks onto me, his expression unreadable. Time stands still and I can feel his eyes assessing me, taking in my slightly disheveled state. He knows something is off. "Matilda," he calls, his voice deep. "What are you doing here?" I force a calm expression and meet his gaze. "I was looking for Emal, Father. I thought he might be in his room, but he wasn’t. I wanted to ask him something." His brows furrow slightly, as if trying to see through my lie. "You seem flustered," he notes, stepping closer and cupping my face in his hands. I steady my breathing. "I must have just been in a hurry. Nothing to worry about." His suspicions linger, but after a moment, he nods. I rele
MATILDA Returning from school, I'm eager to hear what the guard I sent to trail Emal has discovered about Emal's activities. I can't shake off the feeling that there's more to the whole issue than meets the eye. Just when I am about to call for his presence, he steps in. "Good evening, my lady," he greets, bowing in respect. "Did you find anything?" I ask, knowing how cautious Emal can be. He might have noticed he was being followed and changed his plans. "Yes, my lady. I observed the Crowned Prince Alpha throughout the day, just as you instructed. He didn’t leave for school as early as usual. Instead, he went into Her Ladyship’s chamber shortly after she left the castle." I frown slightly. "Are you saying he was in my mother’s room?" "Yes, Your Highness. He stayed there for quite some time. When he finally emerged, he was holding a vellum, clutching it as if it were of great importance. But I couldn’t determine what was written on it." My curiosity deepens. "And after tha