Chapter 5 – Palace Ruins

As they travelled, his father’s words lingered in his mind. He’s right, of course.

They rode in vehicles and knowing the location of the palace ruins, the wolves no longer bothered leading them. They sat in the back of the pick-up trucks. Akira kept his eyes on Alex, though.

They were careful not to encroach in anyone’s territory, only going through neutral ones. Alex wondered what their meeting would be like. He expects to feel a bond towards her, which would prove her claims. The corner of his lips lifted. He would admit he feels a little excited to meet his mate.

As there was nothing to do and his men kept watch of their environment, he allowed himself to be distracted for a while as he contemplated.

A descendant of the moon goddess… how beautiful would she be? Living alone for years, would she know what it’s like outside the palace ruins? Here, he became worried. She won’t be dumb, would she? Would she be clueless as to how others live? How a pack operates? How to interact with others? Would she know what to do? He deeply sighed. She sounds all mysterious, like she knew things normal people don’t. Somehow, his worries made him want to see her immediately so he can get answers to these concerns of his.

Their journey was uncharacteristically uneventful. Alex frowned, expecting some trouble along the way, but nothing happened. He eyed Akira and somehow, he actually felt safe with them around.

“Are we there yet?” Someone from the back asked.

“We’re almost there.” The one driving replied.

Alex checked the map again. They’re not comfortable using gadgets yet, but he’s one of the few who knew how to use one. Unfortunately, the map on the phone couldn’t seem to locate the place. They had to rely on a very old map. They were almost startled when the wolves at the back of the vehicles all stood, their ears perked up in attention.

“Ah, yes. They can lead the way.” He suddenly remembered and quickly stuffed the map into his bag.

“Should we let them off the vehicles, then?”

“Yeah, stop the car.” He ordered.

Or maybe not. As soon as they slowed down, all seven wolves jumped from their respective vehicles and ran ahead of them.

“Should we follow on foot?” A younger man asked.

“I don’t think so. Keep driving.” Alex instructed and they drove for a while more.

They all thought they’re close already, but after fifteen minutes… they still haven’t seen the ruins.

“What do you think?” The man next to him inquired. They all looked alert and ready to jump into a fight.

“Be ready.” Even Alex could feel the adrenaline rush from excessive anticipation. It’s making him a little crazy.

A few more minutes passed before someone exclaimed.

“There! Look!”

Shit. It does look like it hasn’t been lived in for decades. Certain areas have been destroyed, structures that have fallen, but the center castle remained standing. The whole place is huge. It used to be a palace, huh? No wonder.

Now, where could she be? He turned his attention to the wolves. They entered a doorway and disappeared from their sight.

“What are the chances this is an ambush?” Someone muttered under their breath.

“Let’s hope not.” Alex gritted his teeth and tapped the driver’s shoulder. The vehicle stopped and he went out to survey the place.

“Careful.” Someone couldn’t help but remind him.

They slowly approached the entrance and Alex felt relieved to see two silver wolves guarding it. One seemed to be questioning their slow movements.

Akira showed up and clearly gestured for them to follow him inside. They all exchanged glances before doing so. Alex heightened his senses. He couldn’t pick up any other presence around them. He thought it was a good indication that they’re relatively safe.

The moment he set foot inside, his gaze was drawn into an existence like no other. Atop a staircase is the most beautiful woman he has ever seen. She’s mesmerizing as their eyes met. A soft smile was playing on her lips. She nodded to him as a welcoming gesture. He caught his breath. She seemed ethereal. There seemed to be a silvery glow around her, just like her wolves. He and his men were frozen in their steps as she carefully moved down the stairs to meet them.

He came back to his senses when she was finally in front of him. She’s as tall as him and her smile was enchanting, but… there’s a problem. He frowned as he checked himself. He’s not feeling a bond towards her. There’s no irrational pull to take her into his arms and kiss her senseless. He couldn’t recognize her as his mate.

He took a deep breath. He’ll deal with that later. It’s a private issue between him and her. He wouldn’t allow his men to witness their exchange.

“We’re here.” He announced and her smile widened.

“I can see that. Welcome. You must be tired from your journey. There are rooms here.” She gestured to her left before continuing, “If you wish to eat, the kitchen is on the other side.” 

“Did you cook?” Alex wondered what food she could serve them if she hasn’t left this place.

“Grilled meat. Some soup. My wolves bring me spoils from their hunt every morning.”

“I see.” He momentarily faced his men and raised an eyebrow. What do you all want to do? They did bring food supply for their journey so they’re not exactly hungry.

“I want to rest.” One of the drivers replied and the others agreed with him.

“The rooms are here, yes?”

“Yes. You’ll find the doors easily. There are around ten rooms in there.” Her voice was melodious, making them feel relaxed. There’s something different about it. They couldn’t exactly tell what it was, though.

“May I invite you to my room? You can rest in my bed.” She happily offered but Alex’s face turned red.

She’s quite straightforward, isn’t she? Her room? Her bed? He cleared his throat before following her. He doubts something would happen between them, especially when he’s not feeling anything… except a hint of admiration for her beauty.

“What’s your name?” He finally remembered to ask. She hasn’t introduced herself to his men.

She glanced back at him as they continued up the stairs. “Luna.”

He paused mid-step when he heard her reply. “That’s your name?”

“Yes. My name is Luna.” There’s a hint of teasing in her voice.

He was at a loss. He can’t tell if she’s serious or not.

“What other things can you tell me, now that I’m here?”

She lightly chuckled and it was a sound that tickled his ears. He likes her voice.

“You’re tired. You should rest first. We can talk later.”

He grunted, not liking being told to wait. He decided to be direct with her.

“I don’t feel a bond. You’re not my mate.”

She reached the top of the stairs and turned to wait for him. She’s still smiling, which made him a little uncomfortable. He meant to rattle her a little, but it doesn’t seem to be working.

“When we return to your pack, you should ask your parents about it.” She informed him before continuing her walk.

“What?” He was momentarily stunned before following her again.

“Ask your parents about the bond. What you’re experiencing is similar to what your father went through.”

“You know my parents?” Alex wasn’t expecting that.