Scarlett’s POV"I have no idea," I reiterated, my tone a mix of frustration and concern, my gaze locked onto the King as I spoke. "It's a complex situation, one that's hard to decipher. But there's no doubt that Michael's motives are far from pure. He might be trying to exploit our vulnerabilities, seeking shelter only to further his own agenda."The King's brows furrowed, his eyes narrowing as he absorbed my words. "But how did he manage to get here? And under the guise of being sent to check on you?" His voice held a note of disbelief, his arms crossed over his chest as he regarded me intently.I sighed, my fingers absently tapping against the arm of my chair. "It's possible he's manipulating the situation. Remember, he's always been crafty, a master of deception. He could have easily forged that seal or coerced someone from the neighboring pack into playing along. We know how skilled he is at twisting truths to suit his purposes."The King's pacing slowed, and he cast a contemplati
Scarlett’s POV"Thank you for coming promptly," I began, my voice carrying a sense of purpose. "I have a favor to ask, one that requires your discretion and attentiveness."The guard, whose name I wasn’t able to recall, nodded again. "Your Grace, I am here to serve you. Please, tell me what you require."I appreciated his loyalty, sensing his willingness to help. "I find myself in need of information, Thomas. There is a matter of great importance to me, one that I believe will soon come to pass. You see, the stranger, Michael is to meet with the King in the near future."Understanding began to dawn in the guard 's eyes. "You wish to know the outcome of their meeting, Your Grace?"I leaned in slightly, my eyes locking onto his. "Precisely. I have reason to believe that the outcome of their discussion could have significant implications for me and for the realm."The guard nodded once more, his gaze unwavering. "I understand, Your Grace. You would like me to keep my ears open, to gather
Marco’s POVSage's expression mirrored my concern. "It's like they were hit with something unexpected. But what could have caused this?"My mind raced, trying to piece together the puzzle. It didn't make sense for an enemy camp to be in such a state of disarray. Swiftclaw had always been known for their vigilance and readiness.As we continued to move through the camp, my gaze landed on a group of soldiers, their expressions vacant and their movements sluggish. Bottles and tankards lay strewn around them, evidence of a night of revelry. The realization struck me like a bolt of lightning. They were drunk, incapacitated by their own celebration."Why would they let their guard down like this?" I mused aloud, my voice tinged with disbelief.Sage's eyes narrowed in agreement. "It's unlike them.”Gently, we passed the incapacitated soldiers, their snores and mumbled words echoing in the stillness. Our steps were careful and deliberate as we moved toward the cage that held Scarlett captive.
Marco’s POV "Northern Ridge," he gasped, his words a fractured admission. "They've taken her to the Northern Ridge.""Look at me," I commanded, my voice firm but devoid of the anger that had fueled me moments ago. His gaze locked onto mine, a mixture of defiance and vulnerability swimming in his eyes. "I don't relish doing this, but I need to find her. Scarlett's safety is my priority."His lips trembled, his face a canvas of agony and trepidation. "I understand," he croaked, his voice barely above a whisper. "But even if I tell you, they'll kill me for betraying them."I leaned in, my expression a blend of urgency and sincerity. "Listen carefully," I began, my words measured and deliberate. "You've seen the kind of person I am. I won't let my men harm you if you cooperate. We're not like Swiftclaw's forces. We're better than that."He hesitated, his breath hitching as if caught between two conflicting decisions. "I don't even know if they've told me the truth about where they took h
Marco’s POV"Our first step is to head to the Northern Ridge," I replied, my mind already formulating the plan. "But before we do, we should send scouts to Thane's camp."Sage raised an eyebrow, curiosity evident in his expression. "Thane? What does he have to do with this?""Thane has been tracking Swiftclaw's movements," I explained. "If anyone knows more about the Northern Ridge and its defenses, it would be him. We need to gather as much information as possible before we make our move."Sage nodded in agreement, his logic aligning with my own. "It's a sound plan. Thane might have insights that could give us an advantage.""We can't afford to leave any stone unturned," I said, determination resonating in my voice. "Our priority is rescuing Scarlett, and we'll do whatever it takes to achieve that."Sage's eyes gleamed with a mix of resolve and anticipation. "Then let's get to it. I'll coordinate the scouts to head to Thane's camp.""Thank you, Sage," I said, my appreciation genuine.
Scarlett’s POVI woke up when I heard a gentle knock on my chamber door. I rubbed my eyes and stretched, trying to shake off the sleep that still clung to me. It took a moment for me to fully comprehend that I was back in the waking world. Who could be looking for me at this time? In a sleepy voice, I asked, "Who is it?"A voice I recognized immediately came from the other side of the door. "It's me, Your Grace."A spark of familiarity ignited within me. The guard speaking was my personal guard. As his words registered in my half-awake mind, a small smile formed at the corners of my mouth.I responded, my voice still heavy with sleep, "Please come in."The door creaked open, revealing him in the doorway. He was dressed in his usual attire, his armor and his weapon fastened to his side. His dark hair framed a face that carried an air of determination and respect. As he stepped forward, our eyes briefly met, conveying a silent understanding that words couldn't capture."I'm sorry for di
Scarlett’s POV"But Elara," I began hesitantly, my fingers unconsciously finding their way to the delicate swell of my belly, "Michael has always been skilled with his words. He can twist them like vines, winding his way into people's thoughts."Elara's expression softened, empathy shimmering in her gaze. "I know you're concerned, Scarlett. And you're right, Michael does have a way with words. But remember, the King isn't just anyone. He's a ruler who's navigated through countless negotiations, intrigues, and schemes. He's honed his ability to see beyond the surface."She reached out, her hand lightly resting on mine, offering comfort in her touch. "You may not have spent as much time around the King as I have, but I've seen him in action. He's perceptive, shrewd, and he knows when someone is trying to manipulate him."I nodded, absorbing her words. The thought of the King being a seasoned player in the world of power dynamics was both comforting and intimidating. "But Michael has alw
Scarlett’s POVI looked directly at Michael, and it felt like time slowed down for a moment. His eyes seemed really sincere, in a way I hadn't seen from him before. It was so different from the times he had tricked me. All sorts of feelings swirled inside me, like a big storm of emotions. I couldn't hold back the strong mix of hurt and anger that I felt. My voice was soft, barely louder than a whisper, as I spoke up and faced him. The hurt from what he had done was just too real to ignore."You were like a brother to Marco, and you betrayed us? How could you?" The words escaped my lips, laden with the weight of betrayal that cut deep into my heart. Marco, my beloved husband, had shared an unbreakable bond with Michael – a bond I had thought was unshakable, until the truth unraveled before me.His gaze dropped to the ground, and a heavy cloak of shame seemed to shroud him. His voice was tinged with remorse as he admitted, "I messed up. I let my desires lead me astray, and in doing so,