Chapter 25 - King’s Dilemma
"Any news of Antler’s whereabouts?" King Maxton asked, his voice steady as he leaned against the balcony railing. The cold breeze brushed against his face, but his focus was on the figure moving gracefully in the garden below. Georgia wandered through the flowers, occasionally pausing to admire a bloom or two, before turning her attention to the maze.
"They are still searching in the Northern Capital, but there have been no sightings yet," Tanner replied, his tone reflecting the frustration they both felt. Despite all their resources, Antler had managed to vanish without a trace.
Maxton nodded, his gaze never leaving Georgia. "And the footage of Georgia?" he added, the question laced with an undercurrent of urgency.
"It is untraceable," Tanner admitted,
Chapter 26 - Defiant NoMaxton stood in the hallway outside Georgia’s room, his hand hesitating over the doorknob. After his conversation with Tanner, he felt compelled to spend more time with her, to try to understand the woman she is and to understand what he truly feels towards her, to determine his next course of action. It was his way of searching for answers in the midst of his confusion, or perhaps it was something deeper — something he was reluctant to admit, even to himself.Taking a deep breath, he knocked lightly on the door before opening it. Georgia was sitting by the window, her gaze fixed on the gardens below, where she had explored the night before. She turned her head slightly at the sound of the door, offering him a soft, almost automatic smile that did not quite reach her eyes.“Good morning,” Maxton greeted, stepping into the room. “I was thinking we could go for a walk today. Get some fresh air.”Georgia nodded, standing gracefully. “Of course. That sounds nice.”
Chapter 27 - Missing BodiesHer vision blurred, her body growing limp as Harrion’s control tightened around her, suffocating the last remnants of her defiance. She was losing the battle, her will slipping away as the darkness closed in around her. Her silver eyes that burned brightly began to fade into their cloudy state.“Let go,” Harrion commanded, his voice a whisper that echoed in the depths of her mind. “You cannot win.”And with that, Georgia felt herself slipping away, her mind succumbing to the overwhelming force of Harrion’s control. The last thing she saw before darkness claimed her was Maxton’s face, his expression a mixture of fear, confusion, and concern.Maxton caught her as she collapsed, her body going limp in his arms. “Georgia” he called out. He gently lowered her to the ground, his hand pressing against her cheek as he tried to rouse her.But Georgia did not respond. She lay still, her breathing shallow, her eyes closed as if she were lost in a deep, troubled sleep.
Chapter 28 - Greatest Weapon, Greatest ThreatHarrion Bergmont paced the dimly lit chamber, his fingers nervously tracing the edge of the Bloodstone Amulet around his neck. The room was cold, illuminated only by the flickering light of a few scattered candles, casting long shadows on the stone walls. The air was thick with tension, and his mind raced with the weight of his mistakes. The amulet, though powerful, was not the complete artifact he had once hoped it to be. Its energy was erratic, its influence over the hollowed shells unstable, and the realization that Georgia could fight back against his control had shaken him to his core.Voice low, almost a growl, Harrion muttered to himself, "I should have known… I should have anticipated this." He clenched his fists, his knuckles white from the pressure. He had underestimated the silver eyes, a mistake he could no longer afford. The power that coursed through Georgia was far greater than he had anticipated, and now, she was slipping t
Chapter 29 - The AssembleAcross the Middle Region, the hollowed shells — werewolves who had succumbed to the Soulbane drug, were being herded like cattle into transport vehicles. Their eyes were empty, their movements mechanical as they shuffled forward, guided by the commands issued through the incomplete power of the Bloodstone Amulet. They were no longer individuals but tools, weapons to be wielded in Harrion’s quest for power.In the facility on the border, Harrion and Andor stood in a large, sterile room, overlooking the gathered werewolves. The facility was well hidden, surrounded by dense forests, and unmarked on any map. It was a place where the corrupt officials of the Middle Region had turned a blind eye, bought and paid for by the wealth of the stripped and outcasted Bergmont family.Harrion Bergmont raised the amulet, and a pulse of energy rippled through the room. The hollowed shells stirred, their heads snapping up as if in response to an unseen command. Andor Bergmont
Chapter 30 - Tip the Balance Scale“The Assembly of Sovereigns is fast approaching,” Queen Mother Poline began, her voice tinged with a mix of authority and impatience as she entered the grand hall of the palace. King Maxton, standing by the large arched windows, turned to face his mother, his expression unreadable. The tension between them was evident, a silent acknowledgment of the unspoken expectations that had hung over them for years.“You must have chosen a Luna by now,” Poline continued, her tone hard and insistent. Her eyes, sharp and discerning, searched her son’s face for any sign of defiance. “It is not just about tradition, Maxton. The pack needs stability, and you need a partner to rule beside you. The Council will not wait.”Maxton’s jaw tightened, his gaze flickering with a mix of frustration and resignation. “Mother, I understand the importance of the Council,” he replied, his voice controlled, but there was an undercurrent of weariness in his tone. “But the situation
Chapter 31 - Her ResolveTanner leaned forward, his expression serious. “There is no easy answer, Your Majesty. But we need to consider all our options. Revealing Georgia’s existence at the Assembly could solidify your position, and show the others that you have a powerful ally by your side. But it could also provoke an attack, a direct challenge.”The room fell into a contemplative silence, the only sound the crackling of the fire in the hearth. Maxton’s mind raced as he weighed the options before him. He had always been a ruler who prided himself on his strength, and his ability to make tough decisions. But this… this was different. Georgia was different. He could not make hasty decisions without considering all options. He must prevent any loopholes in his plans for Georgia, and minimize the risk as much as possible. “She is not just a weapon,” Maxton said quietly, more to himself than to Tanner. “She is… more than that.”Tanner watched him carefully, sensing the internal conflict
Chapter 32 - Identified DrugThe night was deathly still, save for the frantic footsteps echoing through the corridors of the manor. Tanner ran first to inform the doctors and nurses to prepare while Maxton moved swiftly, almost running with Georgia’s limp form cradled in his arms. Her blood stained his hands, a few drops landing on the marbled floor and creating a trail and some servants stopped in their tracks, watching with evident worry on their faces. And it was their first time to witness their King in a torn state. The powerful, unshakable leader now found himself grappling with emotions he had not allowed himself to feel in years.As they burst into the manor’s private medical facility, Maxton’s voice cut through the silence like a blade. “Get the doctors! Now!” His command was laced with a mixture of desperation and authority, a tone that left no room for hesitation.The medical team, well accustomed to the urgency of their duties, immediately sprang into action. Georgia was
Chapter 33 - It Has BeganThe grand conference hall of the Assembly of Sovereigns was a unique blend of old world elegance and modern sophistication. High ceilings adorned with crystal chandeliers illuminated the room, casting a warm glow over the polished marble floors and intricately carved wooden walls. Long tables, made of dark mahogany, were arranged in a circular fashion, each place marked with a flag representing the different regions and royal families.The royals began to arrive, each entrance accompanied by a wave of murmured voices and the subtle click of heels on the marble floor. Their attire was as varied as their personalities, a reflection of the traditions and cultures of their respective regions. The Alpha King of the Northern Region, Janoer, entered first, dressed in a sleek black suit with a fur lined collar, his presence commanding as always. His guards followed closely behind, dressed in uniforms of deep forest green, the emblem of a wolf’s head embroidered on th
Chapter 108 - The HeirGeorgia’s breaths were uneven and beads of sweat glistened on her brow and her face was contorted with pain and exhaustion. The midwife calmly gave quiet instructions to her as she worked to support her deliver the baby. Maxton was at Georgia’s side, holding her hand, and it was evident in his face both awe and concern for his mate.“You’re doing incredible,” he whispered in her ears, reminding her that he was there for her. His hand gripped hers tightly, as she squeezed back, greeting her teeth as she listened to the midwife. But she managed to respond to him. Georgia managed a small smile through the haze of pain and exhaustion. “I’d like to see you try this and then call it ‘incredible,’” she retorted.Maxton chuckled, though his laughter was laced with nervous energy. “I would fail miserably. That’s why I’m right here, cheering you on.”The midwife glanced up. “It’s time, Your Majesty. One more push.”Georgia closed her eyes, summoning every ounce of streng
Chapter 107 - Coronation and Promises“Are you ready for this?” Maxton asked, his hand tightened slightly around Georgia’s as they stood behind the grand golden doors of the palace’s throne room.Georgia drew a slow breath, her fingers instinctively brushing against the fabric of her coronation gown. It was elegant, shimmering with fine threads of silver and gold, symbolizing her role as the bridge between strength and grace. She met Maxton’s gaze, her heart pounding beneath her ribs as she replied. “Ready or not, there’s no turning back now.”A faint smile tugged at his lips as looked at her with huge pride and affection. “You’ll be magnificent,” he said, his thumb gently brushing the back of her hand.The sound of the crowd beyond the doors grew louder, a mixture of excitement and anticipation filling the air. The Royal Master of Ceremonies stepped forward, nodding at Maxton and Georgia. “It’s time.”The doors swung open with a resonant creak, revealing the throne room, transformed
Chapter 106 - Proposing CoronationGeorgia’s bare feet touched the cool, trimmed grass of the palace gardens as the late afternoon sun cast golden light across the vibrant blooms. Her fingers brushed against the petal of a rose as she walked slowly beside Maxton.“Careful,” Maxton said softly, his hand instinctively moving to support her elbow when she stumbled with her still weak knees. His gaze never left her, he was concerned at her still recovering condition and with her carrying their child. However, despite his worries, he was supportive of her and never prevented her from venturing outside the safety and security of the manor. Today, they were in the palace as she craved for a new view and had been bored staying in the manor.“I’m fine,” Georgia replied with a faint smile, glancing up at him. “I need this.” She looked back at the path ahead which was an aisle of garden flowers.Maxton’s eyes flickered to her hand that instinctively brushed her abdomen, and his expression softe
Chapter 105 - Gifts and RosesGeorgia’s eyelids fluttered open as she moved her fingertips. Her body ached faintly, and the first thing she realized was the warmth of a hand clutching hers. She immediately realized that it was Maxton given the sudden rush of thrumming in their mate bond, making her feel more alive despite what she had gone through.“Georgia,” Maxton uttered, surprised at the sudden movement of her hand that he was holding. He leaned closer to see her with his filled with relief.She blinked, her throat dry, her lips parting as if to speak, but no sound came. Before she could try again, Maxton was already pressing a glass of water to her lips. “Here,” he murmured gently, tilting the glass just enough for her to sip.The cool water soothed her parched throat. “What happened?” she rasped with her voice weak still weak.“You were poisoned in the restaurant.” he said, “But you’re safe now and that’s all that matters.”She frowned slightly, trying to piece together fragment
Chapter 104 - MercyMaxton gripped the phone tightly as the voice on the other end confirmed what he had been waiting to hear for hours. “We’ve apprehended the suspect, Your Majesty. The perpetrator is being transported to the palace as we speak.”His jaw tightened as he exhaled in relief yet contained fury. “Bring them directly to the throne room. I want this handled swiftly.”“Yes, Your Majesty.”Maxton hung up, tossing the phone onto his desk. For Georgia. For their unborn child. For the stability of the kingdom. This would not be swept under the rug like some minor infraction, it would be a lesson, a warning to anyone foolish enough to challenge the Crown.“Tanner,” Maxton barked, his Beta standing at attention by the door.“Yes, Your Majesty?”“Prepare the throne room. I want this dealt with in a manner befitting the gravity of the crime. And make sure word spreads, let the public know justice is being served.”Tanner nodded sharply. “Right away.”~~~At the far end of the throne
Chapter 103 - A Unifying Statement From The CrownMaxton froze, at the news, his heart hammering in his chest and his emotions were a swirling mix of hurricane. He was happy, delighted to have a baby, an heir to the throne, but at the same time, he was hell worried about his mate and unborn child’s status."Pregnant?" The word barely left his lips, as he was in a mix of disbelief and shock. His hand instinctively gripped the back of the nearest chair, tightly until his knuckles were white. "She's pregnant?" he repeated, as if he could not believe what was happening.Dr. Reid nodded to confirm. "Yes, Your Majesty. We just confirmed it moments ago. It’s very early, around six weeks, I’d estimate."A cold wave of panic and anger surged through Maxton, his breath coming faster as his mind raced. "And the poison?" he demanded, trying to calm down."What about the poison? Is it harming her… or the baby?"Dr. Reid’s lips pressed into a thin line. "That’s what we are currently working to deter
Chapter 102 - Poisoned and PregnantThe sound of Maxton’s footsteps echoed in the long corridor outside the manor’s medical wing as he went back in to check on her. His jaw was clenched, and his hands were balled into fists at his sides. Every time he closed his eyes, he saw Georgia, fragile, and pale, her body seizing uncontrollably in his arms. Maxton entered the room and did not bother to wait for the doctor to call him. “What’s happening now? Is she stable?”The doctor met Maxton’s panicked gaze. “She’s stable for now,” he said, pulling off his gloves. “But the situation is serious. There are clear signs of poisoning. We’re running more tests to determine the exact substance.”Maxton felt a cold rage settle over him, masking the fear that threatened to overwhelm his thoughts. “Poison,” he repeated. “How?”The doctor sighed, gesturing toward the room where Georgia lay unconscious. “Most likely ingested. Whatever it was, it acted slowly, giving us enough time to intervene. She is o
Chapter 101 - Blood and SeizureThe woman’s words hit Georgia like a thunderclap, reverberating in the pit of her stomach.“You think you deserve to sit there and pretend you’re one of us?” The woman’s voice carried over the stunned silence of the rooftop restaurant. “You’ll never be queen — never!”Maxton stepped forward with a rigid posture, shielding Georgia from the woman’s line of sight. “That’s enough,” he said firmly, but his voice only seemed to fuel her anger.“Don’t tell me what’s enough!” she shouted, her trembling hands now clenched into fists. Her face displayed a combination of grief and fury, while her eyes darted past him to Georgia. “You killed my husband! You took everything from me, and now you expect us to bow to you?” she snarled.Georgia’s breath caught, her chest tightening as if the air had been sucked from the terrace. She could not move, couldn’t speak. Her hands trembled in her lap, hidden under the table as she clung to the edge of her seat, frozen with the
Chapter 100 - Dinner & Accusations“Why do I feel like I am going to war?” Georgia muttered, tugging at the hem of her dress as she stood before the full length mirror. Her reflection stared back at her — a woman in a sleek, deep green dress that hugged her figure without being overly revealing. The gown was elegant and modest enough that she did not feel completely out of place, yet the way it highlighted her curves made her feel exposed in a way she was not used to. Her chest felt tight, her stomach twisting, and every part of her wanted to bolt back to the comfort of her chambers, but she stood there feeling foreign and unfamiliar at the girl staring back at her. “You look stunning,” Maxton complimented from behind, making her turn around to face him.She glanced toward the door, finding him leaning casually against the frame. His tailored shirt, left slightly unbuttoned at the collar, and dark slacks gave him an air of effortless sophistication. Yet it was not the clothing that c