Ryker – POV"What happened?" I inquired, my attention divided between my guards and the lifeless bodies of the attackers sprawled on the ground. I noticed Nathan and Alexia, both seeming to bear injuries, being tended to by medics on the scene."Elton's minions tried to attack; it seems our barrier weakened for a few minutes, long enough to let them in. We managed to fend them off," Nathan explained."It's strange. Our security has been fortified since the abduction incident; no rogue should even be able to approach, let alone breach, our defenses. How could the barrier have failed if only for a moment?" I pondered aloud."I believe I experienced the power of an Odin witch, and they are strong enough to break the grim reaper barrier as well," Nathan remarked. Nathan and Alexia glanced at Flora, and I spotted a purple bruise and blood seeping from her forearm. Flora seemed oblivious to her injury. With gentleness, I clasped her hand and used mate bond magic to heal her. Anger and a sen
Elton – POV"Sir, all our soldiers have met their end. We failed," said my chief, Fen, his voice heavy with regret. The men we'd dispatched to retrieve Flora were dead. I understood my real motive for sending them—it was to warn, not to be successful. I didn't correct Fen. I knew Belle could summon her power and break the Barriers."You asked, and I delivered. Do you have any other tasks for me?" Belle inquired, her eyes showing a spark of determination."Not yet. Stay in Minnesota for a couple more days. I might need your power soon," I responded, my tone firm yet considerate. Belle nodded and left my room without another word."Summon Venica and ask her if she has prepared the potion for all the soldiers," I commanded, hoping for a positive response."Yes, the potion to strengthen our soldiers is ready. They will now be able to fight with enhanced power," Chief Fen confirmed, a glimmer of hope in his eyes. A smirk played on my lips, content knowing my men were prepared to combat Ry
Belle – POV"We stand with Flora," Mom stated firmly."What have you found in the files about Flora's parents, and his Dad— is he…" My voice trailed off, unable to finish the thought."I don't believe Wilson is dead, and I have a feeling Nia and Ethan aren't either," Mom replied, her voice edged with defiance."Nia and Ethan… they're Flora's parents, right?" I asked, and Mom nodded, confirming my suspicion. "But why do you think—" I began, but Mom interrupted me with a weary sigh."Don't believe everything you hear. I told Venica why I think Wilson is still alive. The Mate bond thread between Wilson and me is still active. If he had died, I would have known about it," Mom asserted. "So, I believe if Wilson is alive, there's a possibility that Nia and Ethan could be as well.""According to the files, they were assigned to a Dead Pack mission meant to eliminate a threat to the White Wood Pack. The mission conditions were strict; if Wilson, Nia, and Ethan didn't return within the designa
Flora – POV"No, wait. I don't think they're with Elton," I said, my voice catching slightly."Are you kidding me?" Nathan retorted, his voice stern and laced with disbelief. "She helped them escape from Elton! Belle is her daughter; she's following in her mother's footsteps." He grasped my hand firmly and started walking, urgency marking his features."No! Stop, Nathan, let me speak!" I protested, struggling to free myself from his grip. Before I knew it, Nathan collapsed on the ground. It was Shirley who had used magic."I'm sorry for putting your friend to sleep. Belle, help him into a chair; I don't want to alarm the attendant." Shirley's voice was steady, but her eyes were hard, and I gulped as she instructed me to take a seat. Belle effortlessly positioned Nathan in a seat, where he remained, appearing peacefully asleep."So, it was you texting me. I hope this isn't some kind of game," I said, my voice laced with uncertainty. Nathan was still sleeping, knocked out by Shirley's m
Flora – POVI woke up with a sore feeling in my abdomen. Turning my head, I saw Ryker still lying beside me. He slept peacefully, and as my fingers brushed through his soft hair, his sleepy eyes opened to meet mine. A smile crept across his face."Flora," he murmured, his voice rough from sleep but still sounding undeniably attractive. "You look so beautiful."His fingers gently grazed my cheek. As I leaned into his touch, a wave of desire washed over me. Ryker's expression shifted, and he quickly pinned me down, his intense gaze mirroring my own emotions."Ryker," I whispered, my voice quivering.He let out a soft moan. "Flora, you know what you're doing when you say my name like that," he said, hunger evident in his eyes. I could sense his growing desire, but before things could escalate, a persistent knock at the door interrupted us.Ryker's face contorted in annoyance. The knocking grew louder and more insistent."Ryker!" It was Nathan's voice.Ryker hissed, "I'm coming, just wait
Elton -POV "Belle isn't answering my call," I said, the worry about Eden gnawing at me. Venica tried to calm me. "Maybe she's just resting," she suggested. But waiting wasn't my style. I needed action. "Teleport to her place and bring her here," I urged. Venica vanished, and I turned to Chief Fen. "Prepare for battle. We need to be ready." Anxiety surged through me, causing my fingers to thread through my hair. Changing our plan of attack from the Full Moon day was not what I'd anticipated. Venica returned, her expression grave. "Belle wasn't home, but she left this letter," she said, handing it to me, anger evident in her eyes. The note from Belle read, "I've found a way to break free from the Magic Contract with Venica. I can't support your methods any longer. You've gone too far in harming the Pack." Anger bubbled up, and I shouted, "Traitor!" The paper in my hand ignited, turning to ash. "We need to act now, Elton," Venica said determinedly. "I can help break the barrier." I
Flora – POVMy body felt heavy, even after I had soaked in a warm shower for an hour. Once dressed, a voice echoed in my mind. "Hello, Flora," it greeted sweetly, making me gasp."I am Nyla, your wolf," the voice continued.I responded aloud, "Nice to meet you, Nyla," rather than replying with my thoughts. A chuckle resonated in my head."You'll get used to speaking through our mind link soon," Nyla assured. Suddenly, my senses heightened. Voices around me became crystal clear—some discussing chores, others talking about the Pack's efforts in rebuilding, and a few giving instructions about finding construction workers to complete tasks."Why did you come so late? Why didn't you appear when I turned eighteen? Why couldn't I meet you earlier," I questioned Nyla, seeking understanding for our belated union."The seal placed upon you had a condition: only if you find a mate who truly loves you from the depths of his heart would I be able to emerge, and you'd gain your powers," Nyla explai
Flora – POV "Ryker, stop!" I pleaded, tears blurring my vision. Ryker and Bryan were locked in fierce combat, trading blow after powerful blow. My heart ached, torn in two. My wolf side didn't want to see either of them injured. Summoning a surge of power from deep within, I forcefully pushed them apart, ending their fight. "I'm so sorry," I whispered, first assessing Ryker's condition—he seemed unhurt. My gaze then shifted to Bryan, relieved to find he, too, appeared unscathed. " Bryan—" I began. He raised a hand, cutting me off. "After all, I am to your mate." Ryker's eyes narrowed, a storm of anger flashing within them. "She belongs to me," Ryker declared possessively, his hand on my waist pulling me close against him. "Didn't you reject her for being wolfless? Now you want her only because you sense her true wolf and her power," Ryker snapped. His words rang true. Bryan had once coldly turned me away, leaving me in a pit of agony and despair. "I stand by Ryker. I am only
Flora – POVRyker looked at me, then at the pregnancy test I had taken before we were to leave for our honeymoon. "You're pregnant," he stated. I nodded, confirming his words."I'm so happy, Flora," Ryker said with a huge grin, embracing me tightly, his arms warm and reassuring. Tears of joy streamed down my face. I had been so anxious about my pregnancy, wondering if Ryker truly wanted to be a father. But seeing his happiness washed away all my fears, bringing a deep sense of relief."Aren't you happy, Flora? Why are you crying?" Ryker asked, a note of alarm in his voice as we stepped back from our embrace."They're happy tears, Ryker. I'm not sad," I replied, chuckling softly and wiping my tears. It was endearing to see the concern in his eyes shift to relief."We need to start planning for the baby. A new crib, and we must ensure that you have the best health care," Ryker began, his mind already racing with plans."Ryker, let's just enjoy this moment. We have plenty of time," I sai
Chelsa - POVStanding outside Ryker's office, I hesitated, confident that Nathan would be inside, managing Pack affairs in Ryker's absence. Taking a deep breath, I grappled with the realization that Nathan was my second mate.The door opened, revealing Nathan. His brown eyes, always so warm, met mine. "Planning to just stand there?" Nathan queried."I was wondering if I helped Ivan with that potion," I lied, stepping inside. Nathan closed the door, and a wave of warmth enveloped me."Please accept Nathan," urged Mary, my inner wolf."Quiet, Mary. I need time. Nathan hasn't acknowledged the mate bond; maybe he's unhappy," I replied, focusing on Ryker's administrative tasks.Nathan approached, holding a file, invading my personal space. I avoided his gaze, but his proximity left me no choice."Why are you avoiding me?" he asked.Raising an eyebrow, I retorted, "You've been avoiding me too. You only showed up yesterday to dance with me."His voice softened. "I'm sorry."“What do you mea
Flora - POVI awoke at dawn, back in my room, but I wasn't alone—Ryker lay sleeping beside me, his presence a peaceful comfort. Gently caressing his face, I felt a surge of relief. Silently, I slipped out of bed and went to Ivan's room. There, he slept soundly. I kissed his forehead, thoughts of the orb's message for Ivan and my future child lingering in my mind. It foretold a challenging adulthood for them, marked by difficult choices. A sigh escaped me as I pondered the message's fluidity and how the future might shift with every decision made. I clung to the hope that the ominous vision could be altered.Ryker's voice broke the silence. “Flora,” he murmured, his half-asleep gaze filled with confusion. “Why do you look so concerned?”I grasped his hand, leading him back to our bed. “I saw the future, Ryker, but I can't share the details—it's against the rules,” I explained softly. “I can only say that Ivan and our future child will face hard times. We won't be there to support them;
Flora – POV"Where am I?" I asked, confused."We are in the Dark Realm, Flora," Nyla said."Why are we here?" I asked. A man's silhouette became apparent, and he bowed before me."Queen Flora," he said. "I am the guard named Nephro, my lady. I am the one who summoned you." The voice was familiar; it belonged to Nephro, who had crowned me the Queen of Darkness. This happened after I had passed away in the Wolf Realm and came to this side of the world. Since being revived, I could easily traverse between the two realms."Why did you call me here? I was told I would only be summoned if a problem arose," I said, rising from the throne. "So, you're here to inform me of a problem?""Yes, my Queen.""What is it this time?" I asked, worried, walking toward Nephro, who led the way to the issue."Nothing too grave, but I must inform you that our future seers' room has a new message." I gulped. Nephro had explained the significance of this room during my coronation and had shown it to me. The Fu
Flora – POVI opened the letter and began to read its contents. "Flora, the first thing I want to tell you is that you changed my life for the better. When I realized our mate bond, I was initially confused and guarded. I had vowed never to let anyone into my heart again, but you wielded an inexplicable power over me. In the few weeks you stayed with our pack, I felt irresistibly drawn to you. When you were taken from me, I understood that it wasn't just the mate bond; it was my heart yearning to know and understand you. You breached the walls around my heart so effortlessly, I never saw it coming. I pretended not to care, claiming I wanted you only for the power you represented, because you weren't ready to see the warmth and care I could offer. You had your own scars, and I wanted to help heal them. Words often fail me when it comes to matters of the heart, so I'm pouring all my feelings into this letter. I have one more question to ask you." The letter ended there.I looked up at I
Flora – POV"Can I talk to you in private?" Bryan asked. I nodded, sensing Ryker's jealousy, but I knew I needed to speak with Bryan. I glanced back at the group."I'll be back in a minute," I said. Everyone nodded, and Ryker returned to his breakfast, deliberately avoiding my gaze. I walked out with Bryan."I'm glad to see you're back to life, looking happy and healthy," Bryan said."Yes, I'm back, thanks to Ryker using the Odion amulet. And I'm grateful to Belle for giving this amulet to Ryker at just the right time," I explained. Bryan nodded, clearly absorbing this new information, evidently unaware of it until now."So, what did you want to talk about?" I asked as we walked down the corridor, away from prying ears. Bryan looked uncomfortable, shifting his weight from one foot to another and scratching his head."Well, I came to ask you—" He stopped, took a deep breath, and met my gaze, his emerald eyes filled with turmoil. "I want to know why I don't sense the mate bond between u
Ryker - POVFlora gazed at me intently. “I know it’s challenging to confront your mother. Allow me to handle this,” she offered. I nodded in agreement. While Flora engaged in battle with my mother, I hurried to Ivan. Utilizing magical techniques, I cast spells to ease his discomfort within the barrier. However, my efforts seemed futile; my magic had little effect.“I’m not feeling well, Dad,” Ivan murmured weakly. Time was slipping away, and I unleashed a powerful grim reaper spell in desperation, shattering the barrier. Ivan, pallid and sickly, collapsed into my arms. Without hesitation, I teleported us to the Black Mist Pack's Infirmary.“Ivan, are you okay?” I asked, concern etching my voice.“No, I feel strange,” he replied, his voice weak, before vomiting on my shoulder. As we arrived at the infirmary, I entrusted Ivan to the care of the doctors and Chelsa.“Chelsa, please look after Ivan. I must return to aid Flora,” I urged, encountering Chelsa on my way back.“Is Flora okay? H
Ryker -POV"Silence and sit down; let me explain," Mom commanded sharply. "I am a hybrid, part wolf, part demon. As the first heir of the demons, my mixed blood made me ineligible to be their queen, so I was exiled. In my rogue state, I met your father, my mate, but I concealed my demonic powers from him.""Why did you kill Dad? Was it because you didn't love him, or did you want to prevent the Moon Goddess's sword from slaying more demons?" I asked, my voice laden with suspicion and hurt."I did love your father, but things went terribly wrong," she began. "On a trip, he discovered my true origin. His hatred for demons was profound, and it led to a fierce confrontation. Not to mention, I resented him for having a son, Elton, with another woman. Our argument escalated, and your father, in a fit of rage, tried to kill me."Mom paused, her eyes distant. "In self-defense, I unleashed my power and, unintentionally, killed him. Unable to return to the Pack, I created an illusion that we bo
Ryker – POVI handed Bryan the signed peace treaty, and he walked out of my pack, his expression clouded with gloom. I turned towards Melina, who was seated with handcuffs clasping her wrists, while Chelsea gave me a stern look."Are you serious about believing this manipulative woman?" Chelsea asked, her voice loud enough for everyone to hear."Chelsea, let's talk in private," I suggested."No, I need answers right now," Chelsea insisted."I had no other choice, Chelsea. Time is running out, and I'm worried about Ivan," I retorted, my frustration evident. Chelsea's frown softened into a look of concern. She knew the lengths I had gone to in our search."Let's just remove these," Melina interjected, nodding towards her handcuffs. I remained motionless, ignoring her demand."Do you want the antidote to ease your agony, or would you rather provoke me to the point of no return?" I challenged her."Then give me the antidote. The pain is unbearable like my bones are aging rapidly," Melina