Lin knew that it was better to get something than nothing. She had way more than she could have ever had if she had not met Jenny, so she was of course grateful. She sighed and flashed a small smile at the girl. “Look, Jenny, I am so grateful for what you have done for me. You really helped and I would have still been oblivious about a lot concerning the quest if not for you,” She explained. “But I’m also going to say that you should stay away from magic or witchcraft. It’s perilous. If you get caught, you and your entire family could be burned alive. You know the tradition of our people,” She continued, advising the young girl. Jenny swallowed and nodded. “I see your point, Lin, but I’m sorry to say, I am not going to stop. It’s the same witchcraft that helped you, wasn’t it?” Lin opened her mouth to speak but realized it was not worth it. “Okay,” She replied in a breathy way. “Do what you want to do. But please, please, please be very careful. Okay?” Jenny was about to speak bu
Lin’s heart doubled when she heard what the short-haired lady had said about the smell of magic. Jenny was right, magic certainly had a smell!Hunter cleared his throat, grabbing the attention of the two ladies who were the guests from another pack. “I do not appreciate both of you speaking to Lin that way,” He said, making himself clear. The short-haired one scoffed before peeling her eyes off Lin and landing them on Hunter. “And who do you think you are? Your father only left you in charge out of pity, don’t act like you’re all high and mighty here now, boy.” She chuckled to herself as she reached for the half-full wine glass. “Right? Little Hunter Blackwood finally wants to grow some balls?” The other lady mocked, joining her friend in laughter. Lin could tell that Hunter was annoyed if not pissed. She knew that he was going to do something impulsive if she didn’t step in and that would ruin it all for him since his father trusted him to be in charge. Yes, she was still mad at
Hunter was lying in bed with half of his face burning and a bruise forming on it. He had other marks over his body due to his father abusing him. Yes, he wanted to fight back. But doing that would have ruined his and his mother’s lives. If he would have dared to hit the councilman back, who knows? They would have been shipped right back to their life of poverty and shame. And that would make all that he had been working on to be in vain. Hunter did not want that, he had a plan in his mind. And for his plan to be able to come true or manifest, he needed to be patient and endure all the pain and torture that it would take. Because in the end, it would all be worth it when he wins the quest and becomes the alpha of the pack. That way, he would be able to properly punish his father.And Hunter cared for Lin, so maybe when he won the quest, he would make her his Luna. It was night and the next day was going to be the day that would kickstart it all; the day the pruning process would s
Maybe she was a coward. Maybe she was just too weak to the point that she could not even stand the decision that she had made within herself to leave Robert. Because she ended up telling the guy, “Okay…okay, I will think about it but that does not guarantee anything. It does not mean that I will be coming back home or anything like that.”Robert could not believe his ears. He dropped the bottle of liquor and it spilled on the tiles as he stood up. “Oh my god, thank you so much. I swear I will never make you feel this way again. I swear to you.” Lin scoffed lowly. She felt a bit good that she was giving him a chance but a part of her was disappointed in herself for not doing what she really wanted to do. “Let’s take some time apart and see how I feel about it all afterward.” Her tone was monotonous despite how she was feeling. “Thank you so much, babe. I love you, I love you, I love you!” He sounded like the happiest man alive. There was now hope. And that was all he needed: hope.
It was a one-hour drive and more into a rural part of the pack. The cars finally came to a stop and when the engines died, the beta stepped out of the car and proceeded to open the door for Lin to step out. She was wearing something casual but the moment she stepped out, she was met by a stunning woman who looked fast on her feet. “Hiya, I’m Dakota, and I was assigned as your personal stylist and assistant for the day,” The woman introduced herself as she led Lin away from the parking area and towards a jaw-dropping building. There were a lot of trees surrounding the property and everything just looked so nature-themed. “Was everyone assigned a personal assistant or stylist?” Lin wanted to know if it was because of what she was wearing. She was a bit insecure, to be honest. Was what she was wearing not good enough for the ceremony?Besides, they were going to be drinking the venom of a deadly snake, so she did not think that they had to wear anything special or formal. “Yes, all
Hunter felt his eyes burning as he was trying very hard not to release tears. He was really hurt because the man was his father. His actual father, so why was the guy treating him that way?He tried every time to be the son the councilman wanted or at least said that he wanted, but it was never enough. “He’s stressed, he doesn’t mean it,” Sarah told her son when she noticed the look of brokenness on his face. “You got this, my son. I love you, and your dad does too.” She reached for him and pulled him into a hug.Hunter hugged his mom back and sniffled dryly. His dad was already gone and was now sitting next to the other council members. He knew that his mom was just trying to make him not look too deeply into what his dad had just said. But the truth was that the man meant every word. That was just the way Councilman Roger was. “Thank you, mom. I understand,” Hunter said to his mom when they broke the hug. He flashed her a small smile and then watched her leave to go sit on the ot
Birds. The sound of birds echoed in the air and Lin’s eyes fluttered open. Her vision was blurred a bit, and then it cleared. She coughed lightly and then sat up from the ground. That was when she noticed that she was lying on some grass. She swallowed, her throat feeling a bit sore. She looked around and saw that she was somewhere entirely different. It looked like a huge jungle but it was very beautiful. She could also hear a few wild animals like monkeys and elephants. And there was a lightness that filled her that she could not explain. Her memory was fuzzy but all she knew at the moment was that where she was was not ordinary. It felt divine.“Hello, Lin,” A voice flowed smoothly. Lin turned around and her eyes landed on her mom. Her eyes widened and she could not believe what was happening. What in the world was happening? “Mom?” Her voice shook a bit. “My beautiful baby,” The woman pulled her daughter in for a warm hug. Lin could not even speak properly after that. Tear
Lin was finally getting better as each second passed. She breathed out a long sigh before looking at the others who had survived the venom. There were four people that survived, her making them five. Among the four was Hunter, looking pale like a ghost. He felt like throwing up and his body was still aching him yet he tried his best to look strong, especially due to the fact that his dad was watching him. When he glanced at his mom, he noticed that her face was wet with tears. She had probably thought that he was going to die. But she was now smiling proudly, while his dad looked disbelief and annoyed. He peeled his eyes away from his parents and then he saw the amount of people who had failed the pruning process. And all those who had failed were dead, lying on the floor, lifeless.It was not a pretty scene but what gave Hunter hope and strength was the fact that he had survived also when he looked to see the people who had survived, he saw Lin. His face lit up and he could not h
The peaceful years that followed allowed Lin and Hunter to witness the pack's growth and the positive impact they had on both the mystical and human communities. The once-divergent paths of the supernatural and human realms had merged into a tapestry of coexistence, woven by the strong leadership and unwavering unity Lin and Hunter had cultivated.The pack, now a symbol of harmony and cooperation, expanded its influence, becoming a beacon for other supernatural beings seeking refuge and understanding. Lin and Hunter's home became a place where differences were celebrated, not feared, and alliances were forged, strengthening the bond between the mystical and human worlds.Despite the challenges they faced along the way, Lin and Hunter's connection remained steadfast. The diamond stone, a constant reminder of their shared vision, radiated with an otherworldly glow, symbolizing the strength they drew from one another. Their love had transcended the boundaries of their roles as alphas, in
In the aftermath of the battle, the pack gathered around Lin, their eyes filled with gratitude and trust. The victory had come at a cost, and Lin couldn't shake the feeling that her choices had consequences beyond the supernatural realm. As she turned to address her boyfriend, the pack watched the unfolding scene with a mix of curiosity and concern.Lin's boyfriend stepped forward, his expression a blend of confusion and worry. "Lin, what is all this? I saw... I saw things that I can't explain. Wolves, magic, and that ominous figure. What's happening?"Lin took a deep breath, knowing that explaining her supernatural life to someone outside the pack was a delicate task. "I never meant to keep this from you, but there are things beyond our understanding. The pack and I, we're connected by something more than just friendship. It's a bond that goes beyond the ordinary."Her boyfriend struggled to comprehend the revelation, glancing at the pack, who observed in silence. "Connected? Wolves?
Hunter's mom, the Luna, exchanged a knowing glance with her mate, then turned to Lin with a compassionate expression. "Lin, sometimes the path to redemption is challenging. But if you truly believe that returning willingly is the key to breaking the curse, then we support you."Hunter's dad, though still skeptical, added, "But remember, your actions will determine whether the pack can trust you again. This is your chance to make amends, not just for yourself but for the entire pack."Lin nodded, gratitude in her eyes. "Thank you. I won't let you down."The Reaper, sensing the shift in dynamics, grinned maliciously. "So, the little she-wolf chooses to play hero. Let's see how well you dance to my tune."As Lin walked away with determination, The Reaper's laughter echoed behind her. The pack, unsure of what to make of this development, watched with a mix of hope and anxiety.Back at the pack's home, Lin faced the challenge of regaining the trust she had lost. Conversations with pack mem
In a secluded corner of the pack's territory, Lin found herself face-to-face with Hunter's dad and mom, the temporary alpha and Luna. The air was thick with tension as they prepared to discuss Lin's sudden return and the pressing issues that had gripped the pack in her absence.Hunter's dad, his expression a mix of sternness and disappointment, began the conversation with a direct question. "Lin, your return has stirred both intrigue and skepticism. What brings you back, and can we trust that history won't repeat itself?"Lin took a deep breath, acknowledging the gravity of the situation. "I left without explanation, and for that, I'm truly sorry. But I can't stand by while The Reaper's influence grows, and Hunter's fate remains uncertain. I need your help to confront him and unravel the truth."However, before Lin could delve further into her reasons, Hunter's dad interjected with a harsh tone. "This isn't the first time you've abandoned the pack without a word. Leaving abruptly seem
Despite her attempts to find closure, Lin's mind was clouded by an inexplicable haze. As she contemplated reaching out to Hunter, she suddenly remembered that he was placed in the magical jar by The Reaper—a crucial detail she had inexplicably kept forgetting. The revelation added a new layer of urgency and complexity to her quest for resolution.The following day, as the sun painted the sky with hues of dawn, Lin found herself fueled by a newfound determination. Ignoring her CEO boyfriend's well-intentioned advice to rest, she decided to dive back into work, seeking refuge in the familiar rhythms of her professional life.The CEO, concerned for Lin's well-being, urged her to reconsider. "Lin, you need time to heal. Going back to work may not be the best idea right now. Take a moment to breathe and focus on yourself."However, Lin's restlessness overpowered the well-meaning advice. The silence of the house, once stifling, now echoed with a sense of purpose. She yearned for the distrac
As Lin stood before the council, seeking permission to end her quest and return to the human territory, the atmosphere was tense. The Alpha, after a brief deliberation, acknowledged Lin's decision. "Your loyalty lies with the pack, but the path of the quest is not for everyone. You have our permission to return, but be aware that the balance has shifted, and there may be consequences." As Lin left the council gathering, whispers and uncertain glances followed her. The pack members, unsure of the repercussions, couldn't shake the feeling that their destinies had been altered. Unbeknownst to them, The Reaper observed from the shadows, a sinister grin etched on his face. Lin's return had served his purpose, and his influence continued to infiltrate the pack's fate. Meanwhile, Hunter remained trapped in the magical jar, unaware of the council's decision. The ancient inscription on the jar glowed faintly, teasing at the cryptic riddle that held the key to his freedom. The Reaper, having a
The Reaper knew of his power, he knew that Hunter was nothing compared to him. He had defeated greater foes and saw the guy as nothing but a waste of time. Who he truly wanted was Lin, the she-wolf. He wanted her out of the quest, but not the way she had chosen. He wanted to be the one to guide her back to the pack, claming the victory of being the one to cause her to surrender. Working with Hunter’s father was difficult, because the man was so arrogant and felt like he had so much power. But The Reaper knew that returning thee she-wolf back would kickstart his true plans for the pack!But first’s thing first was dealing with Hunter. “Give up, little boy.” He was suspended in the air by his dark powers. “You saw how I dealt with your friends back in the Dark Valley, play with me and I will crush you in seconds.”Hunter, despite being held in the grip of The Reaper's dark powers, refused to show fear. His eyes glowed with determination as he retorted, "I won't let you harm Lin or any
Hunter stood there, stunned and heartbroken, as the weight of Lin's decision sank in. The Reaper, reveling in the chaos he had sown, continued to taunt them.“Well, isn’t this just a delightful turn of events?” The Reaper gloated, circling around the couple. “A rejected mate and a broken duo. I must say, I didn’t expect this level of drama when I decided to confront you two.”Hunter, struggling to process the abrupt end to their bond, glared at The Reaper with a mix of anger and pain. Lin, on the other hand, tried to maintain a stoic facade, but her eyes betrayed a sense of regret and sorrow.“Let’s make a deal, shall we?” The Reaper proposed, savoring the tension in the air. “Surrender, and I’ll ensure that you both leave this quest unharmed. I might even throw in a little bonus, like erasing the memories of your failed attempt from your minds.”Hunter, his emotions spiraling out of control, clenched his fists. “I’ll never surrender to the likes of you. You can't break us that easily
Standing before The Reaper, Lin and Hunter rehearsed all that they had learned from Kai and Stereo. But still, it did not seem enough as they stood in front of the guy. “I tried, Lin. I really tried,” The Reaper started. “I tried to help you. I gave you so many chances to live yet you chose to die. You had the choice to quit this stupid quest and go back to the human territory; to go back to your ex that is still madly in love with you, but no, no, no.” He chuckled. “You decided to stay on a quest that ensured death. And for what? Because you want to be the Alpha of the pack? Is that even what you want?” He continued, playing with her mind with nothing but the truth. “Don’t listen to him, he plays with your mind, that’s what he does,” Hunter cautioned the she-wolf, looking around carefully in case there were any hidden traps waiting for them. “I know, but…” She replied in a low breathy way. She knew that she did not really want to be the Alpha of the pack. She had no desire for th