JAKE'S POVI stood by the curtain in my room, staring out of the window, listening to the early morning songs of the birds. It was just the perfect way to absorb good energy from the new day. The pack was beginning to sound alive after these past days of fear.Just when I was beginning to sink into the moment, a loud knock on the door shattered the moment. “Who the hell is that?” I barked. My voice was laced with irritation.“It's me, Damon,” A voice answered from behind the door. Damon? Why the rush this early morning? I thought, heading to the door. I flung the door open and Damon rushed in, his face pale. His chest heaved like he had seen a ghost.“What is it? Why are you breathing like someone is after you?” I asked, My brows slightly raised.“Alpha Jake, it’s Randy—he’s gone!” he exclaimed. My heart sank. “What do you mean, gone?” I demanded. Damon hesitated. “Someone attacked the guards. Randy’s dead.” My blood ran cold. His words hit me like a punch in my face. For a momen
JAKE'S POVI sat in my chair, biting down my lower lip. My jaw and fist clenched while rocking my seat back and forth. My eyes stared into space, yet nothing was in focus. Several thoughts ran through my mind as I slowly tapped my fingers on the armrest.As much as I had something pointing to Damon as the black sheep, I couldn't bring myself to believe Damon was the mole. Damon had been my right-hand man even before I became an Alpha. He has been loyal, so loyal to a fault. How could this be true? Maybe I was being paranoid. Maybe the weight of all these dramas was messing with my mental state.On the other hand, as an Alpha, I couldn’t afford to show weakness or any soft spot. The pack was watching, and my decisions had to be firm, even if they tore me apart inside.The door flew open, and Lisa, Damon's mate stormed in, her face streaked with tears making her eyes puffy. She fell to her knees with her hands held together, pleading for mercy.“Alpha Jake, please I beg of you,” she yel
JAKE'S POVI felt a blade of betrayal cut through me. I couldn't tell if it was Derrick's betrayal or me betraying my friendship with Damon. For a moment, my pulse raced. How could I have been so blinded by my pursuit, not to see through this?Damon had always had my back. But Derrick, he has always opposed me. Just a few days ago, he tried turning the council against me. For what exactly? My mind pondered on why Derrick would want to go this length just to see me out as Alpha. Derrick wasn’t just a council member; he was someone I had trusted implicitly, he was my cousin!. How could he do this? How could he betray the pack, betray me?As much as he always wanted to rule, my father was the rightful heir and not his. So why fight for something that wasn't his?“Jake,” Lyra called out. Her slithery voice shattered my thoughts. “What do you intend to do now?” She asked.I inhaled deeply, compelling myself to concentrate. "I must see Damon," I said, maintaining a calm tone even as turmoil
DERRICK’S POVI walked into the chamber in calculated steps, my mind reading the surroundings trying to figure out if I had been compromised. But how could I be? I made sure I left no traces, no trail! Beta Damon had been held accountable for Randy's death so, I had nothing to fear.I took a seat at the edge of the table and slightly adjusted my collar, careful not to expose the spot Randy had ripped open while he struggled for his life. I watched as Jake took his seat at the head of the table; a spot I have coveted all my life. A spot I could kill for.Braun’s hatred for Alpha Jake was the perfect way to get through with my plan. No one would be able to trace it back to me. But with Randy’s capture, I had to do something before he spilled the bean.I glanced at the faces of other members for clues as to why this meeting was called but they were blank, confused, and curious as I was.“I want to thank you all for making it here. I apologize for the short notice,” Jake began. “There has
LYRA'S POV I watched the crows feed on Derrick's lifeless body as it swayed in the wind at the Death Arena; a spot where executions were carried out for everyone to see. The rope around his neck dug deep into his neck. His face was frozen in an expression of shock as if death had taken him by surprise in its final, merciless grip. I should be happy I guess. Derrick had always opposed my stay in this pack, he questioned my capabilities to rule as Luna. I would have sworn he wanted my place as luna. However, my heart ached at the sight of him hanging like a piece of meat. This wasn't right. As much as it was meant to send a message across to anyone who would think of betraying the pack, there were other ways to do that other than this.“You're too soft Lyra!” Tara tore through my thoughts. “You must make a statement as a leader for your subjects to fear and respect you. Wait till our minds get to sync properly, I'd change a lot in you.” She scoffed.“I wish I could disown you right n
JAKE'S POVThere was silence in the room as the unknown figure walked in. All eyes fell on him. Who could that be? I thought and why would the guards let him in without informing me first? I think they no longer cherish their jobs. I moved closer to make out what or who he was but he wore a ninja mask across his face.“One more step and you wouldn’t use those legs anymore,” I thundered.He uttered no word, making me more nervous. Who is this with so much audacity walking into my house like he owned it?He halted and slowly reached for the mask across his face. I instinctively held the edge of my silver-coated dagger just in case he made a threatening move. “What?” My expression darkened as he pulled off the mask across his face. “Braun! How dare you?” My fingers folded into a fist causing my vision to blur with anger. I moved before I could think. Lucio growled in my head, and in a split second, I was already on him. The first punch landed on his nose causing blood to trickle from hi
LYRA’S POVWhat just happened? Who was that and why would Jake be so furious at him? My mind reeled with some many questions as I stood there trying to process what just happened while staring at what was once a beautiful scene now in total disarray; shattered wine glasses, chairs flipped over, and the well-decorated cake now a smear all over the floor.“Maids!” Queen mother Tessa called out. I watched as the maids scrambled, rushing towards the scene. “Get this mess cleaned up!” She ordered, her tone Sharp and commanding.“Yes ma’am!” They responded with a slight bow.As they scrambled to tidy up the scene, I walked away, headed for the only place I could find solace at this point; My room. I waltzed through the passage a bit disappointed. I had spent quite an amount of energy planning this moment and it ended up in ruins. I grunted in frustration. Why do things keep falling apart the moment I feel like we are headed somewhere? I didn’t know who the stranger was or why Jake was so f
LYRA’S POVThe vibration from his voice sent shivers down my spine. I thought he would still be up in his room. I wanted to be long gone before he'd realize. I stood still, my back still turned at him. Should I respond or should I just walk out on him? My thoughts clashed inside of me as I gripped hard on my luggage.“Where do you think you are going by this time of the night?” He asked again. At this point, I was not sure what his tone was. Was it Concern, Remorse, or Anger? I swallowed hard before slowly turning around, my eyes locked onto his. “Somewhere away from your sickening secrets!” I lashed out at him. I felt my stomach drop after that statement; I had stepped beyond the boundaries of words I could say to him. What was going to be his reaction? My body shivered yet I remained composed.He stood, speechless. I had expected him to say something, perhaps plead with me not to leave or at least explain to me why he was building a wall between us, but no word came forth. I turn
AEMOND'S POV“Finally, it is gradually coming through! You think of me as a fool! A sheep destined to be led all through life. I have worked my ass off, my sweat, my blood, yet you keep taking credit for all! No acknowledgement! Wait till I take everything from you and have you stripped on the street,” I spat venom at Leo in my head, still maintaining a submissive look. I nodded with my gaze fixed on him, with a forced smile, while I tightened my fist away from his view.“I am happy you're beginning to see reasons with me, your Grace. I'd reach out immediately to Zephyr. I am certain he would be able to give me more insight about the pendant,” my voice rang with so much excitement as I stood up to exit the bar.My phone buzzed in my pocket, I reached out to see it was Ella. I took a sharp glance at Leo. Luckily his face was buried in his phone. Clicking on the message icon, I realized it was Ella.I AM YET TO GET AN UPDATE ON THAT BITCH. WHY IS SHE STILL BREATHING? JAKE ALMOST BUMPED
LEO’ S POVWhy are younger siblings so difficult to handle? I thought, tearing through rogues coming at me from the front gate. I had no idea who they were and why they were attacking. All that mattered to me at this point was to hurry off and get Lyra out of this before she got hurt or worst of all, taken.I disabled the last rogue coming at me before racing off to find Lyra. “Lyra!” I called out, darting through the woods with branches and leaves, slapping and tearing my chest as I ran. All I heard was the sound of dry leaves crushing under my feet as I raced till I heard a scream, my heart stopped. “Lyra!” I whispered, my eyes popped out in fear. “No no no,” I growled, changing my direction towards the east wing.What my eyes saw made me halt in my tracks. I lost my breath for a minute. Bodies littered all over the place. “What the hell happened?” I whispered to myself, my eyes darting from left to right when I spotted Tara, standing on a hill.Her thick white fur was stained with
LYRA’S POV“Tara! Tara! Stop!” I yelled, my heart racing. I couldn’t control her, all she wanted to do was to tear out of me and attack. As the protector of the pendant and the bearer, Tara would never take any chances with anyone who posed a threat to me, even if it was my brother.YOU NEED TO STAY BACK AND LEARN HOW TO CONTROL YOUR WOLF AND YOUR ABILITIESMy mind reeled back to what Selene had told me back in ShadowClaw. Maybe I should have listened. Ever since Tara returned, she was no longer the sweet little pup I used to know. Though she was still sweet, but, a lot of chances had taken place. Changes I couldn’t control.“What are you doing, Lyra?” Leo asked, his voice trembling as his gaze faltered. “I don’t know Leo, just drop the damn pendant!” I yelled again, this time I felt Tara connecting to the Pendant. “Wha…What are you doing?” I muttered inaudibly. Tara’s body began to heat up inside of me. I knew what she was doing. “Arrh! Leo’s voice echoed into the night with a loud
LEO'S POV“Easy!” I winced in pain as the nurse gently wrapped medicated gauze around my palm.“Sorry sir,” the nurse responded to my reaction.I hadn't spoken to nor seen Lyra since the incident last night. “How bad is the burn?” I asked.“It is just a first-degree burn sir, you should be fine in a couple of weeks, with proper dressing, some analgesic, and antibiotics,” she responded, clipping the loose edge of the bandage.“Good morning sir,” Aemond greeted, walking in on me and the nurse. His gaze shifted to my hand in shock. “What the hell happened to you, sir?” He queried, examining my wrapped arm.“It’s nothing, I got burnt but it's just a mild scratch,” I responded casually, hoping it would stop him from asking further questions but Aemond was one inquisitive individual. “You may leave us now, Nurse Zoey,” I shifted my gaze to the nurse, who nodded, packing up her first aid box. Aemond and I just stared at each other for the period she was putting her things in order.“These a
JAKE'S POVI pushed through the entrance of the jewelry store, racing outside. “She couldn't have run that far!” I heaved deep breaths as I looked from left to right and right to left. “ Fucking hell!” I screamed, my nerves pushing against my skin around my neck.“Jake! Stop! You are embarrassing yourself! You are embarrassing me!” Ella scolded as she ran towards me, struggling to keep herself balanced on her heels.I spun around, my face contoured into a non friendly form. I stormed towards her as though I was going to take out my frustration on her. “Don't fucking tell me to stop! I knew what I saw!” I yelled at her face, saliva spreading into the air. “She was right there! I saw her! And thanks to your bullshit, I'm sure she saw me too! Gosh!” I clawed my finger into my head, holding it tightly. “If you hadn't insisted I accompany you to get some jewelry, I wouldn't be in this compromising situation.“I’m sure she'd be thinking we are likely getting married. You've always wanted h
LEO’S POVMy thoughts had constantly been haunted by Aemond's words. Just last night, I could barely sleep. What if he was right? Would giving in or somehow considering his proposal make me evil? This is what every Alpha yearned for! To be in charge, to be the controller of vast nations.“No!” I subconsciously barked out loud. “Do not turn yourself into a villain! Let this slide! Get a hold on yourself, Leo!” I spoke to myself, walking up and down the room with a glass of red wine in my hand.“What if Aemond was lying? On the contrary, what does he stand to gain from all of this? It's not like he is a power-thirsty individual. If he wanted this ability for himself, he wouldn't have informed me,” I gave voice to my thoughts. “I don't know about you, but I can't imagine possessing double the strength I have now! Double of my size and bite force,” Zeus, my wolf snarled in my mind. “I don't think you understand how powerful the legendary white wolf is! It is the raw energy of the moon g
LYRA'S POVI hurried up to my feet, swerving through the display glasses stationed at different points.“Hey, ma'am! Watch your steps! The angry sales attendant spat at me, as she picked up her merchandise from the floor, though I didn't stand to apologize. “I'm so sorry,” I whispered almost inaudibly in between my heavy gasps as I ran towards Caspian. “Sorry, excuse me!” I said, pushing through onlookers and those purchasing some items.What the hell was he doing here? He didn't even have the dignity to search for me. How long has it been since I disappeared? Here he is, splashing luxury on a traitor! How demeaning can this get? Jake will always remain Jake! A manipulator!“Lyra? Lyra, is that you?” Jake's voice came behind me.“Jake, where are you going? You can't be running after someone just like that! Stop embarrassing yourself! You are creating a scene!” A second voice came through. It was Ella. She also joined the chase but not to find out if it was truly me, instead, she tri
LYRA'S POVIt has been a rough couple of days for me since Caspian walked out on me at the hospital, not saying a word after overhearing the doctor mention my pregnancy. The cold look on my face, the disbelief, the disappointment etched on it was soul-shattering for me. No questions, no accusations, no goodbye—just silence and distance. That silence now filled every corner of my mind.I guess I should’ve told him. Maybe I should’ve been honest from the beginning, but everything was happening so fast. I was completely swept off by his charm, so deep I didn't pay attention to my head.I sighed, looking at my phone screen for the umpteenth time today before sliding into my pocket, straightening my shoulder, and stepping outside of the house.The wind gradually became cooler by the minute with dark clouds beginning to form in the sky. "I think it's going to rain today," I whispered to myself, taking a look at my phone again, hissing in disappointment. I blew into my hands, rubbing them
LEO'S POVI stood under the shade of the stone arch that framed the training grounds, the midday sun casting broken light through the dense canopy above. I was lost, totally torn between anger and confusion. What is he even saying? Lyra? How is that even possible? My mind was a jumble of thought that I didn't notice the condensed liquid of the energy drink in my hand, dripping down my wrist. "She was the vessel. The Moon’s Chosen. If you don’t take the power, someone else will. You deserve it. You’re their legacy. She’s just the bearer."The words he said somehow kept echoing in my head twisting inside my gut like a knife."How did you get to know?" I had asked him, curiosity etching in my tone. "How come my better now knows more than I do?"He'd smiled that sly, venom-laced grin of his and said, "When the men we had sent to abduct Jake's Luna brought her in, Zephyr had to take her with an enchanted collar. I'm sure you know what that means?" Aemond asked, raising his brows slightl