LOGINShare
Chapter 56 - Astraia
Last Updated:
2025-04-03 20:41:49I woke to shouting.
Blinking groggily, I tried to orient myself. Carson was no longer beside me, but standing at the foot of the bed in a protective stance, his body a shield between me and the door.
Grant stood in the doorway, his face contorted with rage. "Get away from her," he snarled, taking a step forward.
Carson's growl was low and dangerous. "Leave. Now."
"This is my territory," Grant countered, his eyes darting past Carson to where I sat propped against the pillows. "Astraia, are you okay? Did he hurt you?"
"Are you serious right now?" I asked incredulously, struggling to sit up straighter. "Carson would never hurt me."
Grant took another step into the room. "You need to move back to Rivermoon permanently. Where I can protect you."
Carson's stance shifted subtly, his muscles coiling with tension. "She's not going anywhere with you."
"She's under my protection as future Alpha of Rivermoon—"
"She's under my
Related chapters
By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 57 - Astraia
A hot surge of possessiveness shot through me. Before I could stop myself, I was moving forward, my crutch thumping against the floor."Tiffany," I called out. "Get your dirty hands off him before I make you regret it."She whirled around, eyes widening in surprise, then narrowing as she took me in. "Astraia," she said with fake sweetness. "Shouldn't you be in bed?"As she spoke, she tried to touch Carson's arm again, but he immediately moved away and toward me."Touch him again," I warned, raising my crutch slightly, "and I'll shove this crutch up your—""Astraia," Odette cut in, though I heard the laughter she was trying to hold back.Tiffany took a step back, her face flushing. "I was just being friendly. Welcoming our guest.""Yeah right. Find someone else to welcome," I said, not hiding the edge in my voice.Tiffany tossed her hair with a smirk. "Pfft, I took Grant from you. I can take him too."I lunged forwa
Last Updated : 2025-04-04By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 58 - Astraia
As breakfast continued, I found myself leaning slightly against Carson's solid presence beside me, drawing comfort from his nearness."We should make arrangements for your departure to the Royal Palace," Alexei said, setting down his coffee cup. "Perhaps tomorrow, after another day of rest?""Today," I said immediately, earning concerned looks from everyone at the table. "I want to leave today.""Astraia," my mother began, her tone cautious, "the healer recommended at least another day of recovery before travel.""I'll be fine," I insisted. "I'm healing well, and I'd rather recover somewhere that isn't—" I stopped myself before saying something that might hurt my parents' feelings."Somewhere that doesn't have Grant lurking around every corner?" my father suggested dryly.I gave him a grateful smile. "Something like that."Carson studied my face carefully. "Are you sure? The journey isn't short, and the roads to Royal territory
Last Updated : 2025-04-05By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 59 - Astraia
The Royal Palace was as magnificent as I remembered. As we pulled into the circular drive, a team of staff emerged to greet us."Welcome back, Your Highness," a distinguished older man said, bowing slightly to Odette. "We've prepared the eastern wing quarters as requested.""Thank you, Edwin," Odette replied, then turned to me with excitement dancing in her eyes. "You're going to love it. The east wing has the best views of the gardens, and I've had them prepare the suite next to mine."I nodded, too tired to match her enthusiasm. Carson's arm tightened around my waist as we made our way inside."You look ready to collapse," he murmured, his voice thick with concern."Just tired," I assured him, though in truth, my shoulder was throbbing painfully.He made a sound of disbelief but didn't press the issue as we followed Odette through the palace's elegant corridors. The east wing was bright and airy, with large windows overlooking meticulously
Last Updated : 2025-04-06By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 60 - Astraia
I woke to dim light and the sound of soft voices. Blinking groggily, I tried to orient myself, memories of the journey to the Royal Palace gradually coming back to me."She's awake," Odette's voice said from somewhere nearby.A moment later, Carson's face came into view, his golden eyes filled with concern. "How are you feeling?""Better," I said, and it wasn't a lie. The pain had dulled to a manageable ache, and the bone-deep exhaustion had receded. "What time is it?""Just after seven," Odette answered. "You slept for almost five hours."I pushed myself up to a sitting position, noting with relief that the movement caused only minimal discomfort. Carson's hand was there immediately, helping to adjust the pillows behind me."Are you hungry?" he asked. "Dinner can be brought up here."My stomach answered with an embarrassingly loud rumble, making Odette laugh."I'll take that as a yes," she said, moving toward the door. "I'll h
Last Updated : 2025-04-07By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 61 - Astraia
The next two days passed in a similar fashion, sleeping, eating, and rapidly regaining my strength. Carson was a constant presence despite Odette's rules, finding excuses to visit throughout the day. By the third morning, I was feeling completely healed, no trace of pain or bruising remaining on my shoulder."URGH PLEASEEE , let me outtt, no more iinjured status," I declared as Cassandra examined me. "I need to get out of this room before I lose my mind."Cassandra, the Royal Pack's healer, smiled as she removed my bandage completely. "Your recovery has been remarkable, even by wolf standards. You're fully healed now, though I'd still advise against shifting forms for another three days to let the deeper tissues completely set.""Hear that, Odette?" I called to where she hovered near the door. "I'm officially healed.""Just no shifting yet," Cassandra reminded me with a stern look. "Wolf healing is impressive, but we shouldn't push it."Once she'd
Last Updated : 2025-04-08By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 62 - Astraia
When I woke a few hours later, the light had changed to the golden glow of late afternoon. I stretched contentedly, enjoying the complete absence of pain or stiffness. A quick shower left me feeling refreshed and energized.Odette arrived as I was toweling my hair dry, bringing with her a whirlwind of activity. Two palace staff members followed her, one carrying a case of what appeared to be cosmetics, the other a tray with tea and small sandwiches."Eat first," she instructed, "then we'll start getting you ready.""It's just dinner, Odette," I said, though I obediently took a sandwich.She ignored my comment, busying herself with laying out various hair products and makeup on the vanity. By the time I'd finished eating, she had transformed my bedroom into what resembled a high-end salon."Sit," she commanded, pointing to the vanity stool.Knowing resistance was futile, I complied. For the next hour, I was at the mercy of Odette and the staf
Last Updated : 2025-04-09By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 63 - Astraia
The journey to Moonlight Cottage took just ten minutes in the ornate, open-air carts that the Royal Pack used for traveling their extensive grounds. We followed winding paths along Shadowlight Lake's shore, the moonlight creating a silver path across the water beside us.As we rounded the final bend, the cottage came into view, and I gasped."Cottage" was a laughably modest term for what was actually a miniature castle crafted from gleaming stone. The two-story structure boasted turret-like features at each corner, expansive windows that captured the stunning lake view, and a wraparound balcony on the second floor. The grounds were meticulously landscaped, with an infinity pool that seemed to merge with the lake beyond, a modern fire pit surrounded by comfortable seating, and stone pathways winding through gardens illuminated by hidden lights. Lanterns hung from decorative iron posts, casting the entire property in a warm, inviting glow."Oh wow...It's beautiful
Last Updated : 2025-04-10By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 64 - Astraia
The path led us through a section of dense trees before suddenly opening to a hidden outcropping high on the ridge. The intimate spot was naturally concealed by tall rock formations on three sides, but opened to a breathtaking panoramic view of all of Shadowlight Lake below. Carson had added comfortable cushions and strung fairy lights among the surrounding trees, making the hidden lookout even more magical."Oh wow, this is your special place," I said softly, recognizing it from his description. "The one you said you'd show me someday.""I wanted to keep my promise," he replied, his voice low. "I've never brought anyone else here."We settled onto the comfortable cushions Carson had arranged on the natural stone ledge. A small folding table held a thermos of hot chocolate and two mugs. Carson poured the steaming liquid into both mugs, the rich chocolate scent mingling with the crisp night air."To new beginnings," he said, raising his mug."New be
Last Updated : 2025-04-11
Latest chapter
By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 82 - Astraia
"Carson!" I moved to help him, but he was already turning to face the next threat."Ah fuck, it's fine, I'm fine," he growled, though I could see blood darkening his shirt. "Stay behind me."The remaining infiltrators found themselves outmatched by Carson's fury and the coordinated assault of the royal guards. Within minutes, it was over.Infiltrators lay subdued or unconscious throughout the corridor, being secured by royal guards.Alexei appeared around the corner, looking battle-worn but satisfied. "Command center secure," he reported. "Davis has control of all systems.""Good," Carson said, his voice tight as he checked me over for injuries. "Astraia, are you hurt?""I'm fine," I assured him, my eyes drawn to the dark stain spreading on his shirt. "But you're bleeding."He dismissed it with a wave. "Just a scratch."Hunter was leaning heavily on Odette, still fighting off the effects of the sedative."Nice ti
By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 81 - Astraia
The elevator stopped, doors opening onto a dimly lit corridor I'd never seen before. This had to be the approach to the central command center."Keep moving," Elise ordered, shoving me forward.I needed a plan. I needed to create a distraction. Carson and Alexei were likely already aware of the infiltration. If these infiltrators reached the command center, they could compromise the entire territory security system.I reached for our mate bond, focusing hard on Carson's presence.Carson, infiltrators. Service elevator. Coming to command center. Elise.His response was immediate, a surge of protective fury blazing through our connection.On my way.No! I pushed back. Stay in command. Protect the systems. I've got a plan.Like hell, came his stubborn reply. Not letting you get hurt again. Coming to you.I mentally groaned. Stubborn, overprotective Alpha. But his determi
By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 80 - Astraia
"What the hell was that?" I gasped, instinctively bracing myself against the wall.Hunter was already on high alert, phone to his ear. "Breach," he barked. "East wing, lower level. How many?" His expression darkened. "Understood.""What is it?" Odette demanded, her royal authority surfacing despite her fear."They've breached the palace," Hunter said grimly, pulling out his sidearm. "At least ten hostiles, maybe more. They're heading for the central command center.""Just like Tiffany said they would," I realized.Hunter ushered us forward more quickly. "We need to get you both to the panic room. Now.""Wait," I stopped. "The darts. If they're mind-controlled, we can use the blocker."He hesitated, then nodded, handing me two of the darts. "Emergency use only. These are prototypes, remember?"I tucked them carefully into my pocket. "Let's hope we don't need them."We hurried through the corridors toward the secure wing,
By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 79 - Astraia
Three hours isn't much time to create a neurological blocking agent, but when the alternative is mass mind control, you make it work.Dr. Winters arrived within twenty minutes of Odette's call, a tall, stern-faced woman with silver-streaked black hair and the most impressive collection of degrees I'd ever seen. She took one look at me and raised an eyebrow."You're supposed to be resting," she said bluntly."And we're supposed to be having a peaceful weekend, but circumstances change," I replied, sliding the chemical analysis across the counter to her. "These are the compounds we need to block."She studied the readout, her expression growing more serious. "This is... unusually sophisticated.""I know. That's why I need your help."She glanced up sharply. "You realize what we're attempting is dangerous. Untested neurological blockers could cause seizures, permanent brain damage, even death.""And the alternative is letting mind-contro
By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 78 - Astraia
The Royal Palace lab was a state-of-the-art facility tucked away in the east wing. I'd been spending most of my time there since Carson sent back the samples from the northern compound, analyzing the strange compounds they'd found."Do we have any updates on the attacks?" I asked as we walked, trying not to show how much the simple act of moving hurt.Odette shook her head. "Nothing concrete. Alexei's put all allied packs on high alert. Security's been doubled at all border checkpoints, and they've evacuated the civilian areas closest to the borders.""And the central command center? The one Tiffany mentioned?""Full lockdown. Only pack leaders and their seconds have access now."We reached the lab, and I sighed in relief at the sight of my workstation, everything exactly as I'd left it the day before. My microscope, centrifuge, and analysis equipment were still set up, along with the samples Carson had sent."So what exactly are you looking
By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 77 - Astraia
Stupid ribs. Stupid healing. Stupid everything.I woke up feeling better than I had any right to after getting thrown around by a mind-controlled Alpha, but the dull ache in my side reminded me that werewolf healing had its limits. Three days of rest and medical treatment had done wonders, but some injuries just took time.Carson was already awake, I could tell from his breathing. He was lying carefully beside me, barely touching me except for his hand lightly resting on mine."Morning," I mumbled, rolling toward him despite the twinge in my side."Careful," he cautioned immediately, shifting back slightly. "Your ribs—""Are mostly healed," I finished for him, scooting closer to press against his warm chest. "Stop treating me like I'm made of glass."He frowned down at me, eyes serious. "The healer said at least five days before—""Before strenuous activity," I interrupted. "Cuddling isn't strenuous, Carson.""It is
By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 76 - Carson
We reached the medical wing, where the head healer immediately took charge, ordering Astraia onto an examination table."Step aside, Alpha," the healer instructed firmly.I hesitated, reluctant to break contact with Astraia."But I—""Carson," Astraia said softly, "it's okay. I'm not going anywhere."With great reluctance, I moved back, giving the healer space to work.Every bruise revealed as they examined her sent fresh waves of anger through me. Through our bond, I could feel little spikes of pain when the healer pressed certain areas, making my jaw clench tight."Three cracked ribs," the healer announced, gently prodding Astraia's side. "Significant bruising, but thankfully nothing life-threatening. She needs rest and minimal movement for at least twenty-four hours."The moment the examination was complete, I moved back to Astraia's side. Without asking, I carefully lifted her into my arms, cradling her against my che
By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 75 - Carson
As Astraia led us toward the door, I could feel her calm determination through our bond, along with a sharp undercurrent of pain she was trying to hide. Once we were in the hallway, I turned to them both."She slipped up about the command center. That confirms they have someone inside the Royal Palace security.""But what if she's not?" Astraia asked. "What if there really are coordinated attacks planned?""Then we'll be ready," Alexei said grimly. "But first, let's see what Grant has to say. If he's coherent enough to talk."I nodded, glancing at Astraia. Her face was pale, the pain she'd been hiding starting to show. "You should rest," I said softly."Not yet," she insisted. "I need to see Grant. I need to understand what they did to him."I wanted to argue, to insist she take care of herself, but the determination in her eyes stopped me. "Fine. But after that, medical. No arguments."She nodded, swaying slightly as we walked toward
By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 74 - Carson
I nodded, curious what approach she'd take. I shifted back slightly, giving her the lead."Tiffany," Astraia said, her voice softer but still firm. "We were packmates once. Not friends, obviously, but we lived under the same Alpha. I want to understand... why?"Tiffany's eyes narrowed. "Why what?""Why betray your pack? Your Alpha? Everything you've been raised to believe in?" Astraia leaned forward slightly, wincing as the movement pulled at her injured ribs. "What could possibly be worth that?"Something flickered across Tiffany's face—bitterness, maybe. Then, unexpectedly, she laughed. "You know what's funny, Astraia? You never even realized what you had. High ranking position even if you weren't Grant's mate. Respect. Power. All handed to you just because you were the Beta's daughter."Astraia's eyes flashed with anger. "I worked for my position, my power. Unlike you, I don't use others to get where I am.""So that's what this is about?
