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Chapter 23

Penulis: Mistress of the West
last update Terakhir Diperbarui: 2024-10-29 19:42:56
Trigger Warning

This chapter may include mention of physical violence, mental and emotional abuse, and sexual assault. I acknowledge that it may be difficult to engage with this content.

From Alexandre’s POV

As I stared at the note, I felt dizzy. It was beyond my comprehension. I recognized that handwriting anywhere. Though I wasn't sure if Arina knew, I knew I had to tell her it belonged to Zeno. The question is, how and why?

I mind-linked Thiago, telling him to gather Bryan and Maribelle

Enough is enough. I need answers, and I need them now. As King, I have a responsibility to my people, not just to them but to our cousin species.

Once Arina was ready, we headed to the kitchen. I watched as she grabbed the puppy bowls, filling them with food and water for Kiara. Internally, I smiled. I could feel D'Artagnan push forward as he watched her in admiration.

“She would make an excellent mom. I mean, she cares so much for the little rat. Imagine what she wouldn’t do for our pups,” D'
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  • Rising From the Ashes of Her Past ( A Lunas Tale)   Chapter 24

    From Alexandre’s POV I decided to drive into town to grab a bite. It was the perfect way to get one-on-one time with Arina, more like on two, since the little Frenchie had to come with us. I was starting to think I had made a mistake in getting her the little dog since it constantly had to be with her. As we drove into town, I realized I didn't know much about Arina besides that she was Zeno's daughter. As I glanced at her, I noticed her head leaning against the window with a thoughtful expression on her olive-colored face. She was beautiful, as fresh and new as the early morning light. Clearing my throat, I asked. “So, do you have a favorite food or preference?” A shy smile spread across Arina's lips as she sat up. “Umm, well, it's not food, but I love brownies with a side of vanilla bean ice cream,” she replied, lowering her eyes. “What is it?” I asked. Arina looked up. “My dad was the one who would always take me after training to this little ice cream place. We would go to t

  • Rising From the Ashes of Her Past ( A Lunas Tale)   Chapter 25

    From Alexandre’s POV Upon returning home with Arina, I noticed Bryan outside. It was clear from his facial expression that his conversation with Maribelle had not gone well. Walking up the stairs, I nodded at Bryan, gesturing to follow. As soon as we entered the house, we headed to the kitchen. As Arina sat at the table, I grabbed a water bottle for us. Placing a kiss on her head, I told her I would be in my office if she needed anything. She nodded dotingly. As I followed Bryan out of the kitchen, I saw Aella descending the stairs. “Aella,” I called out to her. “I have some business to attend to. I left Arina in the kitchen. Don’t leave her alone." Aella smiled and nodded at me in acknowledgment. I saw Maribelle twirling with her hands on her lap as Bryan and I entered my office. Seeing me, she stood and opened her mouth to speak when she noticed Bryan, and I could see the anger in her eyes. I walked over to my desk and sat down. They both glared at each other, anger radiatin

  • Rising From the Ashes of Her Past ( A Lunas Tale)   Chapter 26

    From Arina’s POV|It wasn't easy to listen to everything Maribelle said about my father. The betrayal did not only come from Maribelle but also from my father. It felt like I was no longer a priority in my father's life. I was confused and hurt and didn't understand why he would do this to me. If that's what the Mate Bond did, I could understand why Alexandre was reluctant to find a mate in the first place. It was difficult to accept that he had neglected me in favor of fulfilling his desires. It made me question whether the mate bond was worth the struggles and sacrifices it brought. The more I thought about it, the more questions that arose: Was I not worth fighting for? If I'm not worth it, who is? That thought made me ponder the concept of self-worth and whether I held a valid place in the universe. I knew there was more to this, but right now, I couldn’t see past the fact that Maribelle was the one who carried out my father's final day. She helped him. I could hear them talki

  • Rising From the Ashes of Her Past ( A Lunas Tale)   Chapter 27

    From Arina’a POV We entered the coffee shop. It smelled so delicious. The freshly ground coffee and oven-baking smell of the freshly-baked pastries filled the air with an inviting aroma. The coffee shop was bustling with activity and the baristas were busy working, making sure every cup of coffee was perfect. The sight of the steaming espresso and the comforting smell of the coffee beans were a welcome sight. Alexandre walked us up to register and he ordered an order of bagels and a large canister of fresh ground coffee. When he asked me if I wanted anything in particular, I looked at the menu. I hesitated for a moment, then asked if I could get a couple of croissants. Alexandre nodded and added my request to the order. The order was placed, and we waited for it to arrive. When it did, we quickly gathered up our things headed back out to the car, and began the drive home. Arriving home we gathered up the food and walked inside. Everyone was still asleep so Alexandre and I decided t

  • Rising From the Ashes of Her Past ( A Lunas Tale)   Chapter 28

    From Arina’a POV After breakfast, Alexandre and Thiago excused themselves to attend to pack business. This left me to think about the coming day's events. I was feeling anxious, but I knew I had to remain focused and be prepared for whatever might come. I took a few deep breaths and reminded myself I was ready to take on whatever was in store. I was worried about what was to come. What would my mother say once she found out I was here? Could I still consider her my mother? I took a deep breath, realizing that these were questions I may never have an answer to. Wanting to clear my thoughts, I headed to the pool, deciding that going for a swim might help clear my mind. I slowly submerged myself in the cool water. The feeling of the water surrounding me was calming and I felt my worries drift away. Taking a few strokes, I focused on the calming rhythm of my arms and legs and let my mind wander. The first thought I had was my father. I thought about the stories he would tell me. Cl

  • Rising From the Ashes of Her Past ( A Lunas Tale)   Chapter 29

    From Alexandre’s POV The moment Jordan said Luna Eleni was here and she had brought a guest, anger washed over me. We had agreed to her arrival in two days, but why she came now was an insult to me. I tried to stay calm and keep my composure. I knew I had to maintain my cool in front of Arina, even though I was boiling with rage inside. I took a few deep breaths and forced a smile onto my face. Clearing my throat as Arina and I walked hand in hand, Luna Eleni turned to see us. Her facial expression conveyed anger and confusion. I spoke up first, keeping my voice calm and even. "Luna Eleni?" I asked, extending my hand to her. Luna Eleni slowly took my hand and nodded in response. She glanced at Arina and me, before turning her attention back to me. "Alexandre, how are you?" she asked. "I’m well," I said, giving Luna Eleni a polite nod, then turning to the guy next her I asked, “And you are?” “Forgive me Alexandre, this is Rick, my chosen mate” Luna Eleni said with a smug grin on

  • Rising From the Ashes of Her Past ( A Lunas Tale)   Chapter 30

    From Alexandre’s POV I couldn't sit still knowing my mate was in the operating room. My heart clenched at the thought of losing her. I finally understood what my mother endured the two times my father almost died with my father. How could I be so stupid and leave her alone. I should have stayed at her side or better yet I should’ve had her stay in the room away at least she would have been safe. I felt so guilty for not being there to protect her and vowed never to make the same mistake again. “My king” I saw a man wearing a white lab coat approach. “I’m Doctor Stevenson,” he said, extending his hand to me. I shook his hand and asked, “How is she?" he replied softly, “She’s stable, we’ve managed to stop the bleeding and her vitals are stable. Her wolf had already started healing her. We’ve started her on antibiotics and we’ll keep her monitored closely over the next few days.” I nodded, thankful for his professionalism and reassuring presence. He smiled sympathetically. “She’ll b

  • Rising From the Ashes of Her Past ( A Lunas Tale)   Chapter 31

    From Arina’a POV I opened my eyes and saw I was in a white room. I had no recollection as to how I got here. My entire body was in pain, and I had a splitting headache. I tried to sit up, but every movement sent a wave of nausea through me. I noticed an IV drip connected to my arm and heard a faint beeping coming from somewhere. I had no idea what was going on. The door opened and Marielle entered, a wave of panic washed over me, and as she approached me with a chart I grabbed hold of her arm. "Where am I?" I asked with tears streaming down my face. "Tell me" I yelled at her. All of a sudden Alexandre ran into the room. He put his arm around me and said, "It's OK, you're safe now." Maribelle looked at us both and said, "You're at the hospital, everything is going to be alright." Alexandre hugged me tightly and he and Maribelle began to explain what had happened. I was thrown out the office window by Luna Eleni. The only thing that didn't make any sense was that she never laid

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  • Rising From the Ashes of Her Past ( A Lunas Tale)   End of Book 1

    Hello, my wonderful readers!I want to thank all who have read my book. Your love and support is greatly appreciated.This book has finally come to an end, but not, for there is a second part to this wonderful story that will come soon.This book is currently undergoing editing and will be released in print soon, so be sure to look out for that.In the meantime, make sure to check out my other book, Mated and Rejected by her Beta, and tune in for the other amazing projects I have upcoming.As always, thank you for your love and support.Mistress of the West

  • Rising From the Ashes of Her Past ( A Lunas Tale)   Chapter 59

    From Arina's POV In the days that followed the meeting with Alpha Jax, or Grandfather as he would have me call him, we settled into the Running River pack quietly, well except Kiara as she kept tormenting everyone, taking their shoes and making a mess in the kitchen when she was fed, but regardless of whatever she did for some reason everyone loved her. Alpha Jax even stole her once and took a nap with her. He swears that he never did such a thing and that she had snuck into his room. Alexandre and I had not seen each other since we arrived. He spent all his time with Alpha Jax discussing everything we knew about Eleni, and then there was the Lycan Blood Pack that also required his attention. Thiago spent his time training with the warriors, saying, "I need to get better prepared for this epic battle that is coming." Of course, he still kept his sense of humor. I was just about to sit and relax on the back patio when I saw my dad approaching. "Hello, Arina," he said, sitting next

  • Rising From the Ashes of Her Past ( A Lunas Tale)   Chapter 58

    From Arina's POV I was nervous. I had no idea what to expect. The most terrible thoughts ran through my mind as we drove to the Running River Pack. Alpha Jax sent two cars, as he instructed; my father and I rode together while Alexandre and Thiago rode in the other car. "Relax, Arina; we are sure to be fine. Nothing terrible will happen; if anything, this is a positive thing," Zakara said as she pranced around in my head. For her, this was something extraordinary, but for me, this was uncharted territory, not to mention this was also my mother's pack we were going to, which had me even more on edge. I shifted in my seat, feeling uncomfortable. "Is everything okay with you?" My father's voice brought me out of my thoughts, and I smiled at him. "Dad, when were you here last?" I asked. With a heavy heart, he patted my head and smiled, "The last time I was here was the day I promised your mother I would return for her." I hugged him tightly, and tears started flowing down my face. We

  • Rising From the Ashes of Her Past ( A Lunas Tale)   Chapter 57

    From Alexandre’s POV As I let the hot water wash away the stress that had accumulated from the night's events, I could only think about what Arina had told us last night. I was shocked by her words, "Eleni is here." How could she have known? No one outside of my parents knew of the plan. I racked my brain, thinking about how she might have found out but kept coming up with nothing. Her claims left me dumbfounded, and no amount of hot water could rid me of the confusion and questions that filled my mind. Due to my loss of focus, I didn't notice when Arina walked through the shower door. I felt tingles running throughout my entire body as her hands caressed the small of my back. My eyes were drawn to her naked body under the water. Taking in the sight of her perfect breast, I let out a low growl as I moved closer, pressing my body against hers. I gently kissed her neck and felt her shudder in response. Our breathing quickened as we embraced each other, the water cascading over us. I fe

  • Rising From the Ashes of Her Past ( A Lunas Tale)   Chapter 56

    From Alexandre's POV During the flight to Sicily, I only thought of my parents. I knew they would hold Aella's funeral in a few hours. Goddess how much I missed her taunting voice. I was overjoyed when she came home because I knew she had been waiting so long to leave that place. Initially, Father sent her to school to study her gifts, but after one semester, she was fed up and decided to venture out independently. Having worked and built her powers alone, she returned home to find that our parents had already left, and I had taken the throne. I was so proud to see how far she had come. Even if I didn't spend much time with her, I knew she would have been a force to be reckoned with. I wanted to honor her legacy and keep her memory alive in some way. After twelve hours of flying, I was ready for some much-needed rest. The hotel was our first stop after getting off the plane. On arrival, we headed to pick up our rental. I notified the Alpha of the main pack that we would be arriving

  • Rising From the Ashes of Her Past ( A Lunas Tale)   Chapter 55

    From Arina's POV It had been two days since we discussed leaving for Sicily. All of the arrangements had been made to accommodate Alexandre, Thiago, my father, and myself. Having said goodbye to Leonidas and Penelope, we headed for the airport. I was sorry that we would be leaving them at a time when we should all be together for Aella's funeral, but they understood. Bryan and maribelle had returned to the Okami pack. Bryan had not seen his family since he began helping me, so I knew he was happy to spend time with them. He vowed to bring them all back to Lycan Blood Pack after we returned. Alexandre hated the idea of me bringing Kiara along. However, I couldn't leave my beloved Frenchie behind, so I made sure the hotel could accommodate room for her. As our flight boarded at five am, we needed to leave early enough to get through security. To draw less attention from anyone or anything, Alexandre decided to fly commercial instead of taking one of his jets. The phoenixes followed

  • Rising From the Ashes of Her Past ( A Lunas Tale)   Chapter 54

    I stared at all the Phoenix on the front lawn. Different colors, different sizes, but with the same goal in mind: to protect me and to be here for me. I felt a sense of comfort and safety just looking at them. I knew that no matter what I faced, they would be there for me, a loyal companion through life. I was grateful for their presence. But I was also worried about them. Everyone knew that a Phoenix would burn itself and be reborn after some time, but the thought of losing them in battle was still heartbreaking. Alexandre was just as shocked as I was when he saw them. "What are we supposed to do with so many?" Thiago asked. Alexandre shrugged off his shoulders. Unable to form a coherent sentence I turned to him. "Do we need to go to Sicily?" I blurted out. He turned to me with confusion on his face. "What do you mean?" he asked. I explained that Zakara had mentioned that the answers we sought were there. "We have to be there before the next full moon," I said. I braced for his r

  • Rising From the Ashes of Her Past ( A Lunas Tale)   Chapter 53

    I sat up and stared into the trees. I watched as the red eyes glared at us, "Do you see it?" I asked Alexandre my eyes never leaving those of whatever was out there, when Alexandre stepped forward and said, "Come out Jessica?" he said, leaving me speechless. Jessica stepped out of the trees. Her lycan fur was light gray with a white stripe down her face and her red eyes never left me. I stared at her in shock. I had no idea how she got here or why she was here. She stepped forward and opened her mouth, but before she could say anything, I found my voice and asked her "What are you doing here?" She stopped and looked at me, her red eyes burning into me. She smiled, but there was something off about it. She said nothing and slowly turned to face Alexandre. "What do you want?" he asked sharply, his voice holding a hint of warning. There was a sudden chill in the air, and for a moment I felt as if I had stepped into a dream. Jessica shifted back to her human form, standing in front of

  • Rising From the Ashes of Her Past ( A Lunas Tale)   Chapter 52

    From Arina's POV We planned on having the ceremony within two weeks' time. This would give everyone enough time to compose themselves and enough time to get informed of the entire kingdom of the Lycan Princess's death. Penelope decided to hire someone to do the catering and decor as she was not up to doing it herself. Once we settled on the day and time, Leonidas and Penelope returned back to their room. Bryan and maribelle stayed away this morning allowing the former King and Queen space. Thiago had not been seen since we arrived, so he too decided to give everyone space. My father had walked up to his room. He was silent the entire time and I knew he could relate to their loss having died himself. Alexandre and I decided to head out for our run, as we walked outside the three phoenixes waddled behind me the moment we stepped outside they took off into the air. Their wings were magnificent, and I had no idea what other mythical creatures would arise but I was excited to find out. Ki

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