Denera "Great, today we'll discuss plants and herbs," Adrianna began, her eyes gleaming with excitement as she gestured to the lush greenery surrounding us in the palace gardens. I took a seat on the ornate stone bench, my notebook open and pen in hand, ready to diligently record her every word. "I'm all ears," I replied, giving her my full attention.Adrianna smiled and started pacing slowly, her fingers trailing along the velvety leaves of a nearby shrub. "Plants are truly remarkable, you know. Each one is a veritable treasure trove of medicinal properties, just waiting to be unlocked."She paused to pluck a delicate purple blossom, twirling it between her fingers. "Take this lavender, for instance. The oil extracted from its fragrant flowers has tremendous calming effects. A few drops can soothe frayed nerves and induce a restful sleep."I dutifully jotted down 'lavender - sedative, sleep aid' in my notebook, eager to learn more."And just look at this rosemary," Adrianna continu
RockanI was lost in the paperwork scattered across my desk, mindlessly signing document after document. The monotonous task had lulled me into a subconscious state, my thoughts drifting elsewhere. But the sharp knock at my office door jolted me back to the present."Come in," I called out, hoping it was Denera on the other side. A moment of silence passed before the doorknob finally turned, and my anticipation quickly turned to a scowl as Adrianna stepped inside. "What do you want?" I asked firmly, doing little to mask my disdain for her presence.Adrianna's lips curled into an innocent-looking smile, but I knew better than to trust that facade. "Calm down, I just came to say hi," she replied, her tone dripping with feigned sweetness."Now leave," I demanded, not wanting to be anywhere near this woman. The mere sight of her set my teeth on edge - I feared what I might do if she lingered any longer."Oh Rocky, don't be so brutal," Adrianna purred, clearly enjoying my irritation. "I h
Denera "What if we check on anyone called Elena?" I suggested, watching as Rockan's eyes widened in realization. Rockan quickly turned to the book he was holding and began flipping through the pages. Finally, he stopped on a page that had a large family tree drawn on it, with many names scattered throughout."That's a lot of Elenas," I said, my eyes scanning the family tree Rockan had opened in the ancient leather-bound book. Seventeen distinct names were listed, each one bearing the same moniker. Rockan nodded solemnly. "The first Elena was the original healer's mate, centuries ago. Her husband's name was Stephen."We traced the lineage downward, the branches growing thicker as the generations passed. The names blurred together, a tapestry of intertwined lives stretching back through the ages. "It ends at the 18th generation," Rockan murmured, running his finger along the final entry. "But this book is over fifty years old. There could be more recent additions we're not seeing."
Denera“You know, I still don’t get why I never noticed such power from Aunt Rosa,” I mumbled to myself, but I knew Rockan was listening. We had left the library an hour ago, and he was in full command mode, barking orders and demands as we prepared for our trip Tomorrow. “Someone get me a car!” he yelled, his voice booming through the halls. I watched as workers and maids scurried off to fulfill his requests, their movements hurried and efficient. “And some maids, pack my mate’s clothes for the next seven days—”I had assumed we would keep things subtle and low-key. The last thing I wanted was too much attention on our plans.“Your Highness—”“What?!” Rockan snapped, turning aggressively to face the poor woman who had approached him. I could see the fear in her eyes as she cowered under his gaze. I felt a pang of sympathy for her; she was only trying to do her job.“The council seeks you and the Luna’s presence,” she stammered, her voice barely above a whisper.The council… The th
DeneraIt all happened in a flash. The preparations were completed before the end of the day, and though I was filled with excitement, we stood at the gates waiting for the car to arrive. The weight of anticipation hung in the air, tangible energy buzzing around us.“Wait up!”Abruptly, Rockan and I turned on our heels, curious about the voice that had called out to us. “What is she doing here?” Rockan growled, his expression shifting from excitement to annoyance.“Adrianna,” I said, recognizing her as she rushed toward us, her hair flying behind her like a banner. She was running as if she were about to miss a flight.“I forgot she was supposed to teach me too!” I blurted out, face-palming myself. How could I have overlooked that? When Adrianna finally reached us, she was gasping, her breaths coming in quick, shallow bursts. “There is no way you're going on that kind of journey without me,” she declared, hands on her hips, eyes fierce.I glanced at Rockan, who was clearly not thril
Denera “I am Luna Danielle, leader of Mystic Pack. Welcome to the pack of healers,” the elder woman announced, her voice resonating with authority and warmth. My eyes sparkled with excitement—Danielle was one of the names on the family tree we had discovered. She was part of the last recorded lineage.“Thank you for accepting us,” Rockan said, giving a respectful bow. “Take our guests to the guest quarters,” she instructed, gesturing for us to follow. With that, we were granted passage into their land.As we stepped into Mystic Pack territory, I was immediately struck by the beauty surrounding us. The landscape was a tapestry of lush greenery, with vibrant wildflowers blooming in a riot of colors. Tall trees, their leaves shimmering in the sunlight, framed the path, creating a natural archway that welcomed us.The buildings were unlike anything I had ever seen. Each structure was crafted from the finest timber, featuring intricate carvings that depicted scenes of healing and nature.
RockanI lay restlessly on the bed, staring up at the ceiling. Sleeping in unfamiliar places had never been easy for me, and tonight was no exception. The tension in the room seemed to wrap around me like a heavy blanket. Not only was I in a strange setting, but the Mystic Pack had also insisted that all four of us “guests” stay in separate rooms. After I tried to explain that Denera and I were mated, it felt like my words fell on deaf ears.Again, I turned over on the bed, shifting endlessly as I found it increasingly difficult to find rest. The bed was soft, too soft, and the sheets felt foreign against my skin. I couldn't shake the unease that settled in my stomach.“Fuck,” I muttered, frustration bubbling up as I swung my legs over the edge of the bed, resting my elbows on my knees. The stillness of the night was deafening, broken only by the sound of my own heartbeat, which felt like it was pounding in my ears.Then, a knock on the door interrupted my thoughts. I caught a whiff
Denera “Because I love you, okay?”My heart skipped more than a beat as I looked up at him, disbelief washing over me. What?His confession hung in the air, heavy and profound. I felt as if the world around us faded, leaving just the two of us at that moment. “From the time you tripped and fell during the mate-picking ceremony, I have loved you from the start, Denera,” he continued, his voice earnest and raw. “That is why I’ve been less of the ruthless alpha I usually am.”His words struck a chord deep within me. Memories of that chaotic day flashed through my mind—how clumsy I felt, how exposed. Yet, even amid my embarrassment, Rockan had been there, his gaze steady and very intimidating. I had never considered that my vulnerability could invoke such strong feelings in him.“I noticed how fragile and scared you were the night you were with me,” he said, his voice dropping to a whisper. “It made my heart sink that I caused it. It is why I have done my best to be good to you, and I
ROCKAN’S POV The elders and the people stood up and bowed as soon as I entered with my mate and remained that way until we had our seats. I made sure Denara sat down first before joining her.“You may now sit.” I said and the people obeyed. Though the seats were not enough for the crowd.“Why are they so many? It feels like all the pack members are here.” I mindlinked Denara and she smiled at me.“They’re worried about their alpha.” She simply replied.After waiting for the goddess knows how long for someone to say something and no one did, I cleared my throat and started, “thank you all for coming and for your support when I was having a hard time.”The people started whispering and murmuring among themselves. That was when I realized they were still in shock of seeing me without my mask.I was already tired of the stares and the expressions I got. I didn’t know the people were so eager to see my face. What for? I wouldn’t be bothered if I were in their shoes though.“Yeah right.” M
DENARA’S POV After staying to monitor our healing process for one week, Luna Danielle and Adrianna were finally going back home today. It was really beautiful having them care for me, making me see the bright side of things and now they were leaving. I felt like begging them to stay a little longer but they had tried.“Come here my girl.” Luna Danielle said and grabbed me into her warm embrace once more. “I’ll miss you so much Denara.” She patted my head as she talked.“I’ll miss you too, great aunt.” I replied and she smiled, wiping a stray tear off my face.“Please masked alpha…” Luna Danielle started and paused momentarily to laugh when she saw there was no mask on his face. “Make sure you take care of my baby girl.” She warned.“You don’t have to say that. It’s all I live for.” Rockan replied.“If you ever stop or make her sad I’ll come back here and take her from you.” Luna Danielle sounded both playful and rigid.“You won’t have a reason to.” He affirmed.“Denara…” Adrianna cri
TYRIS’ POV Days had passed, yet it felt like months since I embarked on this relentless search. Each hour dragged on, a heavy chain of dread around my neck, as I combed through towns and packs in search of Serena. Who would have thought finding someone could be so impossibly difficult? With every mile traveled, my sense of urgency grew; my thoughts spiraled into a dark abyss of worry and regret.“Sir, are you sure we shouldn't stop somewhere? You seem really exhausted,” the driver said, glancing up at me through the rearview mirror. Concern etched across his face, a reflection of my own inner turmoil. “Your eyes on the road,” I curtly responded, irritation creeping into my voice. I didn’t want to entertain his concern, though a part of me appreciated it. He was the only soul I had with me, a simple man enlisted to help with my search. We had spent the last several days moving from one neighboring town to another, each stopping at a dead end. I couldn’t shake the feeling that I wa
TYRIS’ POV I tossed and turned in bed, the sheets tangled around my legs like the mess my life had become. For what felt like the hundredth time to night, I shifted positions, trying to find a semblance of comfort. Sleep eluded me, and my mind raced with thoughts that twisted like a storm in my head. I hated my life, I hated who I had become. Chasing after Denera for so long had led me here, to this moment of turmoil. I had watched my brother, Rockan, fall in love with her, and a bitter taste lingered in my mouth. It still hurts to remember. At first, I had so much hate for him. How could he have won her heart when I had pursued her with such fervor? But now, as I lay in this bed, I realized there was no point in that anger anymore. Rockan and Denera obviously loved each other, and their bond was something I couldn't break. Still, the ache in my chest felt raw. I had wanted her to be with me, to see me as her mate, yet here I was, alone and grappling with my own failure. Each t
DENARA’S POV My eyes felt heavy, too heavy to open. Every nerve in my brain pulsed with pain as my head throbbed, a dull ache that seemed to echo in the quiet room. It took a while for me to gather the strength to finally crack my eyelids open, the morning light spilling in like a gentle reminder of the world outside.As I blinked into focus, memories of the night flooded back: the tears, the heartache, the overwhelming sadness that had consumed me. I had spent the entire night curled up, sobbing into the sheets, feeling utterly lost. Rockan was the only one who could bear witness to my pain, holding me close, and whispering comforting words that felt like a lifeline amidst my despair. Turning my head slowly, I looked at him. Rockan was fast asleep, his chest rising and falling in a steady rhythm. He had been through so much, yet here he was, the man I loved, resting peacefully beside me. My heart swelled with gratitude as I gazed at his mask-less face, a sight I had longed to se
DENARA’S POV The world around me felt like a haze, a blur of voices and shadows. I blinked slowly, trying to piece together the chaos that had erupted. I had thought I passed out but I didn’t. I couldn’t, it was like the pain wanted me to feel every bit of it.My body was heavy, weighed down by the remnants of pain, but there was a soothing numbness spreading through me, courtesy of the anesthetic shot I had received.As the wave of anesthesia began to lift, I blinked against the bright light that filled the room. My heart raced, and the world around me slowly came into focus. The sterile smell of antiseptic mingled with something else—something warm and familiar. And then I saw him. It wasn’t a dream all along and I was definitely not dead. “Rockan,” I breathed, my voice a mere whisper, but it felt like a shout in the silence of the room. The sight of him propped up against the pillows, his hair tousled and eyes bright, filled me with a wave of relief. It felt like I had been los
TYRIS’ POV “Sir, your attention is needed quickly.” The urgency in the maid's voice snapped me from my thoughts. I turned, my heart racing as I searched her eyes for any hint of good news. My brother had been in critical condition, and every minute felt like an eternity. “What is going on?” I asked, forcing myself to remain calm, though my insides churned with anxiety.“I was asked to call you down to the emergency ward,” she replied, her voice steady but lacking the reassurance I desperately sought. “The emergency ward?” The words felt heavy on my tongue, and a sinking sensation settled in my stomach. I forced my legs into action, propelling myself through the hallway of the hospital, each step a frantic prayer that the news would be good.As I approached the entrance to the emergency ward, I paused, staring at the glaring sign that loomed above me. I took a deep breath, trying to steady my racing heart. Whatever had happened to Rockan, it couldn’t be good. I braced myself for wh
ROCKAN’S POV I was floating, enveloped in a vast nothingness. I couldn’t feel or move my body. It was dark and quiet, so quiet that it was almost deafening.“Am I dead?” I thought to myself. There was no one to talk to, and I couldn’t even move my mouth to think out loud.“Is this punishment for all my misdeeds?”The weight of my past decisions pressed down on me. There was no way I could have died so easily; my life and goals had not been achieved.Denera...I missed my mate. An ache settled in my chest as I longed to see her, to tell her how much I loved her. It felt as though I hadn’t said it enough, or shown it enough. But I did love her, fiercely and without reservation.Tyris would never forgive me if I died. I really owed him an apology, too.“No…” A faint wind blew past me, carrying the sound of a voice. Was I imagining things?“What’s happening?”The same voice echoed again, almost recognizable, yet just out of reach.I held my breath, hoping I was not imagining it. Then the
DENARA’S POV The air in the hospital room was thick with tension as everyone quietly cleared out, leaving the three of us—Luna Danielle, Adrianna, and me—standing by Rockan’s bed. The murmurs from the pack outside faded into a dull roar, and I felt my heart race. This was it. This was my chance to finally prove myself to Rockan and the pack. Panic and anxiety was an understatement to what I felt in that moment. “His life is in your hands, save him,” Luna Danielle urged, her voice steady yet laced with urgency. I nodded, though anxiety gripped me like a vice.As the door swung shut, sealing us in, I took a deep breath, trying to steady my racing heart. Rockan lay there, still and vulnerable, the mask from his previous injuries now removed. The sight of him sent a wave of emotions crashing over me—fear, love, and desperation all mingled together. “Let’s begin,” Adrianna said, her tone serious as she approached Rockan’s bedside. She gently placed her hands on his shoulders, her expre