~LILY'S POV~It hadn't been a day since we had arrived from our strenous journey when I heard my mom was sick. Infact, it was as soon as we entered the grove, I was informed of it. My mind raced when I heard the news. My mom, sick? She was the one who rarely fell ill in the entire grove. She had a strong immune system and very strong genes. Was it just a cold or something worse? Because the way the maid told me, she also looked fearful. Gosh, my mind spun in different directions. I told Theo and Sarah I had to visit her and my dad first before we would go to Aunt Belinda's.Before I even went to my room to freshen up, I immediately rushed to meet her and saw my father in their room. I went to hug him. He looked so tired and drained."Dad, what happened?""Where have you been, Lily?" He said, looking worried."Dad, I'd explain later I promise, but what happened to mom?""Lily, my dear." My mom's frail voice called to me and I went to her side. I sat beside her, my heart heavy with worr
~LILY'S POV~"She has cirrhosis…"I remembered what the doctor had said before my dad cut him off and took him aside to discuss. The look in my father's eyes said it all. I didn't need to check it up because I had heard of that illness before. It was what my father's mother had died from. They had taken her to every healer in the realm, every renowned doctor they could pay to travel to the grove, but still, no cure had been found for her.I brought my palms to my face and tried my best to hold in the tears that were on the brim of rushing out. No, nothing would happen to my mom. I had to believe hard enough and I had to stay strong, for her. She'd be fine. The more I'd tell myself, the more it'd be true."No…." My gut-wrenched voice came out which attracted Sarah's attention from the front seat she was sitting in beside Theo, who was driving. Theo looked at me concernedly through the front mirror as Sarah turned and placed a hand on my shoulder."Lily, you didn't have to come along. Y
There she stood, hair burning in the crimson light that started escaping from the heavy fog.She always gave off a eerie feeling that made me shiver, as if she would attack me out of nowhere and no-one would see it coming. Her eyes were filled with pure hate, showing the total darkness inside her. Every step she took closer to us was full of evil intent. She held Aunt Belinda on her knees, close to her, grabbing her hair tightly as the woman yelped for mercy. Her twisted smile showed how happy she was to inflict pain. At that moment, it felt like all the badness in the world was in the air with us, leaving me feeling scared and anxious."Let her go!" I shouted with all the strength I could muster.Her sickening laugh made my ears bleed. She dragged Aunt Belinda's hair tighter making her spine bend inwards and the poor woman's cries made me tighten my fists in anger."I said let her go, Audrey! What are you doing? What do you want?!"And then, a familiar voice I never thought I'd hear
Audrey, for the first time ever, seemed submissive and under a command. She bit her lips and stood back. Surprisingly, Leo started laughing then pushed me forward. He went to her side and whispered, "Don't touch her." He gave me one last look before walking back and standing where she once stood.Sarah rushed to my side,"Are you okay?"As we stood in front of Audrey and Leo, the atmosphere turned heavy and filled with tension, like a brewing storm ready to fall. It was a crucial moment, one where we had to think and act carefully. Aunt Belinda's battered face made my insides squeeze and the way Leo casually glanced at it then me made me want to claw at his face. This man was truly a monster. Theo, Sarah, and I were determined to carry out our plan of trading Aunt Belinda, but we knew we had to proceed with caution and be mindful of the risks involved mostly because neither Audrey nor Leo were to be trusted.Audrey smirked. "Well, well, if it isn't the brave little trio," she taunted,
I looked back and saw Tyler charge forward, a huge number of werewolves rushing behind him. I quickly kicked the vampire in front of Aunt Belinda in his crotch but she was dragged away by someone else. Sarah took up her daggers and also started defending herself upon seeing the reinforcements."Lily, we need to get Belinda. I'll cover you." Theo said to me and brought out his claws. He started slashing at the vampire barricade that formed in front of Audrey and Leo. I saw Leo dragging Audrey back when she wanted to fight. Aunt Belinda was being rough handled by a vampire.As chaos unfolded, the sounds of clashing weapons and screams filled the air. I fought with all my might, trying to get closer to Audrey. I saw how her red eyes burned with anticipation and the hunger for blood. I wanted to stick her, just like I would a heartless vampire. I saw her more like a vampire from thereon, she was with the enemy after all. She was the enemy."We need to get our own held captive back! I will
~LILY'S POV~I saw Audrey marching to Tyler after the burst of magic she released. That was the only way I could define what she did now. Magic. Very dark magic.I ran to her and pushed her to the ground, both of us landing beside one another."Bitch!" She gnarled at me and dragged me by the hair up, "I'll kill both of you now!"She wrapped her hand around my neck and long nails started growing out of hers, each digging into my neck as she carried me up slowly. I didn't know where she got this strength from but it was frightening. Her eyes dripped with rage."Audrey!" Leo's voice sounded."I don't fucking care about your command! She'll die here, right now!" Audrey shouted back without looking at him.Tyler wanted to stand up again but one swoosh of her hand and he was blown back again. I could hear Theo darting towards us but Audrey blew the ball of energy to his gut again. I had not even seen Sonia in a while.My airflow was slowly getting cut off as I garbled in her grasp.She smil
It was already morning. Sarah told me how I had passed out in the car and Tyler carried me down to my room. I slowly rubbed my arms and legs, trying to relive his touch on my skin but stopped when I felt how wrong it was."What of Aunt Belinda?" I said with my morning voice."She's in the health centre.""I thought she'd insist on staying in her cottage…" "Well, she did, but your dad insisted she stayed here since we all have to stick together during these times.""What about Theo?"She blushed, "He only sustained some bruises. He's fine." She shifted closer to me, "Enough of others. How are you feeling?""I can't say…" I shook my head and held my hands together."I didn't want to disturb you this morning but it looked like you were having a bad dream. Will you tell me what it was about?" She said worriedly.I remembered what I saw. Audrey, dead bodies, the journal, fire…I closed my eyes tightly and held my hands tighter."Lily…" Sarah said worriedly and held my hand."No, it's noth
"Tyler," I raised a hand to his face, "I've forgiven you but I'll never forget. Trust is something that takes time to rebuild. I do hope we can work towards rebuilding that trust, not just for the sake of our relationship, but for the pack as well."He sighed and nodded. "You're right. Trust isn't something that can be easily repaired, but I'm willing to do whatever it takes to regain yours."I didn't reply to that so he spoke again."We need unity now more than ever, especially with Audrey still out there causing chaos with our enemies."His mention of Audrey brought a reminder of the danger that still loomed over us. I knew it was crucial to inform the elders and my father about Audrey's betrayal and her involvement in the recent events. We needed their guidance and collective wisdom to plan for what we're to do next."Have you informed the elders and my father about her?""That's what I was going to do now but I wanted to check on your aunt first."This showing of affection by Tyle
Hey Pack, Wow, you made it to the end! Huge virtual fist pumps to you. 🌟 Thanks a million for all the howls of support and the crazy enthusiasm you've shown for this story. Seeing your reactions has been better than getting a call that a lecture has been cancelled on a Monday morning, lol. Now, drumroll, please... anticipate Book 2! It's coming and it's coming hard. We're talking more drama, more twists, more romance, more tension, and a few surprises that might just make your jaw hit the floor. You won't want to miss this. Seriously, your excitement is like fuel to my writing engine. Thanks for giving this story a chance. There are more adventures, more drama, and more 'what the heck just happened?' moments coming your way. This is just the beginning of the howl-fest. Stay awesome, keep those pages turning, and get ready to dive into Book 2 real soon. Until then, my pack, take care, and may your days be as thrilling as the full moon nights. Bye-bye till Book 2 drops! Howling l
~ LILY'S POV~ I sat upright on the bed. I could hear my heart beating wildly, and felt beads of sweat clinging to my forehead. The dream, the same recurring dream, had invaded my sleep again. I felt a chill creeping through me as those words in the Lythian language echoed in my mind. Adrian, still half asleep beside me, sensed my restlessness and gently kissed my forehead. His voice was soft and soothing as he asked, "What's troubling you, luv?" I turned to him with widened eyes. I recounted the details of the dream. It's the second time I had that dream. I saw Cathro in the dream warning me about a certain "Darram" but she was speaking in Lythian language. Saying, "Beware, Darram comes soon and we fear you will be the last Guardian this realm will ever know." Adrian's concern was evident, but he didn't want to add to my distress. He pulled me close into his strong arms, and reassured me with the warmth of his presence. "You shouldn't think too much about it, at least not now. You
Jaxon found himself behind a runty herb stall in the hidden market. The canopy above offered shade from the scorching sun. The cloaked man stood in front of him, carefully arranging an assortment of herbs in clay pots and glass bottles. Jaxon had come to appreciate the familiarity they both shared with nature's offerings.Jaxon took a deep breath and finally spoke, "The salves you've been giving me have been a great help to Tiana. Her scars are slowly healing, and I can't thank you enough for your help."The cloaked man nodded, his deep and wise voice always leaving Jaxon in wonder. "It's an honor to assist."Jaxon's eyes never left the cloaked man. He spoke with a sense of urgency in his voice. "Tiana's scars are fading, but her new wounds... they keep reopening. I know it's as a result of the remaining dark magic that's around her. I need something to ease her pain until I take her to the healers at the Cave"The cloaked man nodded, "I have just the thing, but be cautious. These her
×××××××××In the quiet of the night, Audrey was preparing herself for bed, or really, for Leo. She sat, fixing her hair while looking into the mirror. Her reflection stared back at her, and behind her, she sensed Leo watching. He lay on the bed, his eyes never leaving her.The night's silence was broken only by the gentle rustle of her clothing. As Audrey gazed at her own reflection, she couldn't help but remember the image of Leo's lifeless body. It was a haunting image that often crept into her thoughts, and tonight was no different.A shiver ran down her spine as she realized how frequently she feared his death. Audrey couldn't quite understand why his demise, or the mere thought of it, was such a constant source of dread for her. What would she do if he were to die again?Leo sensed the worry in her posture and voice, prompting him to ask, "What's the matter?"Rather than revealing her deep-seated fears, she shifted the conversation toward their recent meeting with Viktor. Audrey
×××××××××As Leo and Audrey stepped out into the courtyard, the air was filled with residual tension from the meeting. Leo nodded to his henchmen, silently instructing them to move forward and prepare the car for their departure. As they scurried off, leaving the two of them alone, Leo's demeanor changed.He swiftly pulled Audrey into his embrace. Her lithe form fitted perfectly against his own. It was a gesture that had become all too familiar between them. There was always a genuine attraction and the thrill of their dangerous partnership. Their flirtatious banter began as he gazed into her eyes, wanting to start something."It's about time I commend you for your loyalty. What you did back there -""Was nothing. I was tired of being in the midst of three grown-up men bickering like kids."Leo laughed and pulled her closer, "Oh, Audrey, you've been holding out on me. You've got a sense of humor buried in there."Audrey kept a straight face but he tightened his grip around her waist.
×××××××××The room was covered with such a thick tension as Viktor and Leo threw eachother assertive glares as they sat opposite eachother at the roundtable. The flickering chandeliers gave enough light to the polished wooden surface below it, and their henchmen stood behind them, ready to leap into action at any given moment.Leo's calculated move broke the silence. He nonchalantly tossed the Bodessa medallion onto the table, its precious metal clinking against the wood. His piercing eyes bore into Viktor's as he opened his mouth, "I brought this," Leo always sounded ambitious and too cocky, despite who he was addressing, "in exchange for men. I need more troops to raid the werewolf pack. It'll benefit the clan, and I know you've been planning a raid on one of their lower towns too. I could help with that."Viktor, the more composed and legitimate senior of the two, regarded the medallion for a moment. He gestured for one of his men to give it to him to which the latter did. His fin
THE WORLD OF "FORBIDDEN MATE"Someone once asked me about the world setting of the story since they saw elements of modern and mediaeval worlds in the story.This is your answer, dear:In Story 1, the setting and world are a blend of supernatural elements and modern-day life. The narrative features caves and packs, which are key components of the werewolf culture. These caves serve as communal spaces and dens for rebel groups, where they hold meetings, make important decisions, and discuss their strategies. The packs, as you already know, represent a strong sense of community and hierarchy.Amidst the supernatural background features, modern elements are also included into the story. This includes the presence of everyday technology like phones and digicams, used for communication and recording events. Weapons such as daggers are also part of this world which reflects the need for self-defense and conflicts that arise.The characters frequently visit bars, where they socialize, and so
Out of nowhere, Audrey appeared. She was surrounded by a dark and eerie aura. Her eyes glowed with evil as she summoned the powers of her devil goddess, Ashtarah. The air around us crackled with strange energy.When she saw my present form, she seemed to rethink facing me but she proceeded still, "So you're a Guardian? An unworthy bitch like you?"I studied her."Why did you always have the good things, hunh?You should have never been born, Lily! You're my bane and I want you cut you off once and for all!""Your hatred will only lead you to your grave, Audrey!" I was trying to get to her."No! I will send you to your grave, right here!" But alas.With a furious battle cry, Audrey lunged at me, her claws extending like sharp blades. I quickly used my wings spreading wide to shield me from her attack. We clashed in mid-air, feathers and fur flying as we struggled for dominance.Ashtarah's power flowed into Audrey, making her incredibly strong and quick. She easily dodged my attacks wit
The air felt heavy with anticipation as the BlueMoon pack and Shadow Clan armies stood facing each other. Their eyes locked in a fierce confrontation. The clearing, once a peaceful neutral space, had now transformed into a battleground.Tyler stepped forward, his eyes fixed on Leo, "This ends here, Leo. We won't let you harm our pack any longer," Tyler declared with a resolute tone.Leo smirked, his fangs glinting in the moonlight. "Oh, dear Alpha boy king, you're so naive to think you can stop us. This is just the beginning of our dominance," he replied with a sinister chuckle."Chargeeee!" Tyler's voice echoed through the crowd."Make me some blood!" Leo shouted out and burst into incredulous laughter.As the armies clashed, the forest became a battleground. The air filled with fierce sounds of bodies colliding, claws slashing, and fangs biting. Both sides were driven and determined, expressing it through battle cries and roars.Tyler led his pack with courage, giving his all in the