As Estella stepped out into the cool night air, her heart pounded with fear and worry about her missing son. Her usually gentle features were now etched with lines of concern, and her hands trembled slightly as she scanned the area for any sign of Devon.
"Devon!"
Every passing moment felt like an eternity as she called out his name, her voice tinged with desperation. Her mind raced with all the worst-case scenarios, imagining all the dangers that could befall Devon in his vulnerable state.
With each step she took, Estella’s senses were heightened, her eyes darting from shadow to shadow, searching for any trace of Devon’s presence. She was acutely aware of the fading effects of the medicine, knowing that time was running out to conceal Devon’s true nature. And so, she had to find him before anyone else.
***
Devon is currently at the depth of the forest. Earlier, he sat quietly in the chair, his eyes scanning the area around him as he waited for Elena to return from the bathroom. The chatter and laughter of the party faded into the background as his gaze drifted toward the dark expanse of the forest behind the village chief’s house.
Suddenly, a flash of movement caught his attention, and Devon’s eyes narrowed as he saw a shadow disappear into the depths of the forest. The figure had eyes that glowed a bright red, similar to his own.
Curiosity sparked within him, and without hesitation, Devon rose from his seat and began to follow the mysterious figure into the forest. His steps were swift and determined, his mind focused on finding the red-eyed shadow.
As he ventured deeper into the forest, the dense canopy overhead cast eerie shadows that danced around him. Devon’s heart pounded in his chest, a mixture of excitement and apprehension coursing through him as he searched for any sign of the elusive figure.
'Where did that go?'
But despite his best efforts, the shadow seemed to vanish without a trace, leaving Devon standing alone in the silent forest.
As Devon prepared to turn back, a prickling sensation crawled up his spine, alerting him to a presence nearby. Instinctively, he stiffened, his senses sharpening as he scanned the area for any sign of danger. His bubbly demeanor vanished, replaced by a steely resolve and a cold, calculated gaze.
Hidden among the shadows, Devon’s sharp eyes caught sight of a figure lurking in the darkness, observing him with an intensity that sent shivers down his spine. Without hesitation, he tensed, his body coiled like a spring ready to strike, and his expression hardened with a coldness that belied his usual warm demeanor.
If Estella were to witness her son at that moment, she would hardly recognize him. The gentle, innocent boy she knew had been replaced by a cold and aggressive presence, his defenses raised against any potential threat.
This was a side of himself that he kept hidden, and it was something that he would not let his mother know about.
With a chilling edge to his voice, Devon called out into the darkness, “Show yourself. I know you’re there. Why did you follow me?”
Moments later, a low chuckle echoed through the trees, and a figure stepped into view. It was Brett Marrock, the village chief’s son, wearing a playful grin.
Brett tried to engage Devon in friendly banter, but instead of responding, Devon’s demeanor grew even colder, his gaze piercing.
Brett was taken aback by the intensity of the boy’s eyes, especially considering how different he seemed from the jovial child Brett had encountered at the party. Despite sharing the same face, this Devon seemed like an entirely different person.
With a tense silence hanging in the air, Devon repeated his question, demanding to know why Brett had followed him.
“Why’d you follow me?” he asked, his voice sharp and cold.
Brett, taken aback by Devon’s coldness, stumbled over his words before composing himself. “Well... I saw you heading into the forest alone,” he explained, his voice wavering slightly. “I got worried, you know? The woods can be dangerous, especially for a kid like you.”
Devon’s expression remained impassive as he listened, his distrust evident in his piercing gaze. “And why should you care?” he countered, his voice laced with skepticism. “You don’t even know me.”
With that, Devon turned around and walked away from him. However, before he could get away, Brett’s voice was heard again. “You’re Estella’s son, right? That young lady selling medicine in the village?”
Brett’s words hung in the air, and Devon’s back stiffened at the mention of his mother. He didn’t turn around, but his voice held a hint of irritation as he responded, “Yeah, I’m Estella’s son. What’s it to you?”
Brett’s smile widened, undeterred by Devon’s coldness. “Just curious, that’s all,” he replied casually. “Estella was always so kind and sweet. Hard to believe her son turned out so… different.”
Devon’s nostrils flared, his patience wearing thin at Brett’s taunting. “It’s none of your business,” he retorted sharply, his voice laced with hostility. “What do you want, anyway?”
Brett chuckled, seemingly unfazed by Devon’s aggression. “No need to get aggressive, little guy,” he quipped, taking a step closer. “Are you sure you are really Estella’s son?”
Devon’s anger surged like a tidal wave, his eyes flashing a vibrant red as the effects of the medicine wore off. Without hesitation, he turned around and launched himself at Brett, his tiny feet delivering a swift and unexpected kick at Brett’s knees.
Brett’s laughter faltered into a pained grunt as he staggered, his knees buckling beneath him from the unexpected blow. He winced, clutching his knees in agony, his earlier amusement replaced by genuine discomfort.
Brett’s eyes widened in shock as he took in Devon’s cold stare and the fiery red hue of his eyes which were green earlier. The shock of the unexpected sight left him momentarily speechless, his mind struggling to comprehend what he was seeing.
But before Brett could gather his wits, Devon’s chilling voice cut through the air like a sharp blade. “Say that again,” he warned, his tone icy and devoid of any warmth, “and I will end your life.”
The threat hung heavy in the air, leaving Brett momentarily frozen. He had never encountered such formidable presence and power from someone so young, and the realization sent a shiver down his spine.
Before the tense silence could stretch any further, a familiar voice broke through the tension. “Devon!” called Estella from afar, her voice tinged with concern.
The sound of his mother’s voice seemed to snap Devon out of his cold demeanor in an instant.
With a swift shift in expression, Devon’s features softened, his cold façade melting away to reveal the bubbly demeanor his mother knew so well.
Brett watched in bewilderment as Devon’s demeanor transformed before his eyes, from cold and aggressive to a sudden warmth that seemed to radiate from within him. The abrupt shift left Brett utterly baffled, unable to comprehend the depths of Devon’s dual nature.
As Devon turned to leave, Brett couldn’t help but voice his confusion. “Does your mother not know you?” he asked, his tone tinged with a mix of curiosity and bewilderment.
Devon halted in his tracks, his gaze piercing as he turned to face Brett once more. His voice, though still cold and threatening, held an underlying edge of warning. “If my mother learned about this,” he uttered, his words laced with a chilling certainty, “I would not hesitate to kill you. Remember that.”
With that ominous declaration hanging in the air, Devon turned on his heel and strode away, his footsteps echoing softly against the forest floor as he made his way toward the sound of his mother’s voice.
On the other hand, Estella’s heart raced with panic as she called out Devon’s name, her voice echoing through the dense forest. With each passing moment, her worry intensified, fearing the worst for her son. But then, like a beacon of hope cutting through the darkness, she heard his familiar voice calling out to her.
“Mama!” Devon’s voice pierced through the stillness of the forest, filling Estella’s heart with a mixture of relief and joy. She turned toward the sound and watched as Devon emerged from the shadows, running toward her with outstretched arms.
Tears welled up in Estella’s eyes as she knelt to meet him, pulling him into a tight embrace. The warmth of her son’s embrace washed away her fears, replacing them with a profound sense of relief and gratitude.
Estella’s heart swelled with relief as she held Devon close, feeling grateful that he was safe. But concern still lingered in her mind, and she gently lifted his chin to meet her gaze.
“Why did you wander off, Devon?” Estella asked, her voice tinged with worry.
Deovn hung his head, his usual cold demeanor melting away in the presence of his mother’s concern. “I saw a beautiful butterfly,” he lied. “It flew into the forest, and so I followed it.”
Estella’s expression softened as she listened to her son’s explanation “Oh, Devon,” she said softly, brushing a stray lock of hair from his forehead. “You shouldn’t wander off like that. It’s dangerous, and I worry about you.”
Devon nodded solemnly, his eyes reflecting his remorse. “I’m sorry, Mama,” he said earnestly. “I promise I won’t do it again.”
“Alright, then,” Estella replied.
Estella noticed the sign of Devon’s red eyes, a clear indication that the effects of the medicine had worn off. Concerned that someone might see and recognize it, she swiftly pulled a cap from her bag and placed it on Devon’s head, concealing his eyes from view.
“Devon, darling, close your eyes,” Estella instructed gently, her voice tinged with urgency. “I’ll carry you back home.”
Devon complied without hesitation, shutting his eyes tightly as his mother lifted him into her arms.
In the shadows of the forest, a mysterious figure observed Estella and Devon’s departure. As they vanished from sight, the silent observer melted into the darkness, as elusive as a whisper in the wind.
In the depths of the night, a sleek black wolf dashed through the forest, its movements swift and silent. As it approached a looming castle nestled amidst the trees, the moonlight glinted off the dark stones, casting an ethereal glow. The castle stood tall and imposing, its architecture ancient and majestic, yet shrouded in an air of mystery.Inside, the halls echoed with a haunting silence, broken only by the sound of the wolf’s footsteps as it transformed into a human form. Now a man of imposing stature, the figure moved with a grace that belied his predatory nature.Stopping before a grand wooden door, the man’s hand gripped the handle, and with a slow, deliberate movement, he pushed it open.Inside the dimly lit room, a figure sat upon a throne-like chair, his presence commanding and imposing. His features were chiseled and handsome, yet there was a coldness to his demeanor that sent shivers down the spine.“I have returned, Lord Ariston,” said the man who entered the room with a
As the morning sun filtered through the windows of her quaint little shop, Estella bustled about arranging her shelves, her hands deftly arranging jars and vials of freshly crafted pills.The peaceful rhythm of her work was interrupted by the creak of the door swinging open. Turning to greet the newcomer, Estella’s warm smile faltered slightly as she laid eyes on the unfamiliar man standing before her.Nevertheless, she greeted him kindly, her voice gentle as she welcomed him into her store. The man returned her smile, his demeanor friendly as he introduced himself as Brett Marrock, the village chief's son.Recognition dawned on Estella’s face as she realized who he was, and she greeted him once again.“Welcome to my shop, Mr. Marrock.”Brett’s gaze swept across the shelves of Estella’s store, his eye searching for a particular sight. Not finding what he sought, he turned to Estella with a curious expression. “Where’s your son?” he inquired, his tone casual yet filled with genuine int
Deep in the night, Estella tossed and turned, unable to shake off the unsettling news Brett had delivered. The audacity of their actions left her restless. Seeking solace, she slipped out of her bedroom, craving the cool embrace of the outdoor air. The bench outside her house beckoned, offering a sanctuary under the moon’s pale light.Sitting there, Estella sighed heavily. “They have no shame,” she muttered to herself, her mind replaying Brett’s words.How could they betray her like that? Her regret swelled, a bitter taste in her mouth. If only she had destroyed all her research before - perhaps then this wouldn’t have happened.As Elena noticed Estella sitting outside, her concern deepened. Estella’s usually composed demeanor was replaced by a troubled expression, clear evidence that something was amiss. Earlier, when Estella had returned from her shop, Elena had sensed that something was troubling her.Elena briefly went into the kitchen and returned carrying two steaming cups of mi
The next morning dawned with a sense of purpose as Estella, accompanied by Devon, made her way to the shop. Elena had other commitments that day, leaving Estella with the responsibility of tending to the shop with Devon following her.As they entered the herbal shop, Estella turned to her son with a tender smile. “Darling, I’ll be at the back processing some herbs. If a customer comes in, just call me, alright?” she instructed, her voice filled with warmth.Devon nodded, his expression was serious yet reassuring. “Don’t worry, Mama. I’ve got it,” he assured her, a hint of pride in his tone.Estella leaned down, pressing a soft kiss on Devon’s forehead. “Thank you, sweetheart,” she murmured.With that, Estella retreated to the back of the shop, her mind focused on the task at hand. She knew that if she was to seek vengeance and confront the Erylis family, meticulous preparation was key.In the secluded work area, surrounded by shelves laden with dried herbs and vials of potent elixirs,
The rhythmic clang of the bell chimed as Brett lumbered out of the shop. Estella watched him disappear down the dusty street, a wry smile playing on her lips.Turning, she saw Devon standing in the doorway with his brow furrowed. Unlike most children his age, his expression at this moment wasn’t one of childish curiosity, but something deeper which surprised Estella.“Mama,” he began, his voice surprisingly deep and serious for someone so small, “are you sure about that man, Mr. Marrock? He seems suspicious.”Estella knelt before him, her warm smile a stark contrast to the turmoil brewing within. She knew that Devon was a smart and perceptive child however, she did not realize that it was to this extent.“He’s not the most pleasant fellow, that’s for sure,” she admitted, choosing her words carefully. “But sometimes, Devon, you need to work with… undesirable ingredients to create the perfect pill.”Devon’s expression remained serious. Unlike most children who might have pictured bubblin
Brett Marrock trudged along the dirt path leading back to the Vesper Pack territory. His vacation was over, and the brief respite from the grueling demands of his life as a low-rank werewolf in the pack had ended.The Vesper Pack territory loomed ahead, a sprawling expanse of fortified barracks and watchtowers. Brett’s position within the pack was far from prestigious; he was a humble soldier, working tirelessly to prove himself worthy in a world that often overlooked him.As he approached the barracks, a familiar figure emerged from the shadows, his presence both comforting and exasperating.“Brett! My friend! Back from your grand vacation?” Lucian Grum’s voice was a warm blend of sarcasm and genuine delight. Lucian was also a low-ranked soldier, but what he lacked in rank, he made up for in his vast knowledge of the pack’s intricate social web.Brett’s face broke into a tired smile. “Lucian, it’s been a while,” he said, his tone light despite the fatigue weighing him down.Lucian ch
Estella carefully packed her bag, her skilled hands selecting and arranging various vials, jars, and bundles of tools with precision. As she tightened the straps on her bag, a small figure appeared at the doorway. Devon stood there with a curious gleam in his eyes.“Where are you going, Mama?” Devon asked, his voice sweet and innocent.Estella looked up and smiled at her son. “I’m going to the forest nearby to gather some ingredients.”Devon’s eyes sparkled with interest. “Can I go with you, Mama? Please?”Estella hesitated, her protective instincts flaring. The forest, though beautiful and bountiful, was also filled with hidden dangers. She didn’t want to expose Devon to any risk. “I don’t know, Devon. The forest can be a dangerous place, you see.”Sensing her reluctance, Devon’s expression shifted into an irresistible pout. He widened his big, doe-like eyes and jutted out his lower lip, looking up at her with an expression of pure innocence. “I promise I’ll behave, Mama. Please let
The first light of dawn barely filtered through the small window of their shared room when a persistent knock woke Brett and Lucian. Groggy from sleep, Brett rubbed his eyes and stretched, his curiosity piqued by the early visitor. Lucian, always the lighter sleeper and closer to the door, swung his legs out of bed and shuffled to answer it.Opening the door, Lucian was met with an unexpected sight - the soldier they had seen so grievously injured 2 days before stood there, a broad smile on his face. Lucian blinked in disbelief, still groggy with sleep.“Good morning,” the soldier said warmly. “I wanted to thank you for the medicine you gave me. It was incredibly effective. If not for that, I’d still be in bed, unable to move.”Lucian’s confusion deepened. “But two days ago… you could barely open your eyes,” he stammered. “How are you even standing?”The man chuckled, a sound full of genuine relief and gratitude. “I know it seems unbelievable, but whatever was in that bottle worked wo