Chapter 1 The Past

- The Past -

It was already past 3 PM in Sabrah, a place ruled by the oldest and strongest witches in the world—the Carellos.

Aster, with sorrowful eyes, stood in front of her mother’s casket—Lady Vienna. She was the only family Aster had, the one who loved her most, and her protector.

Aster had been just a baby when Lady Vienna brought her to the coven. The family had objected to her decision to adopt a human, but she insisted and took full responsibility.

Lady Vienna was a respected and powerful witch in the coven, second only to her sister, Queen Vantessa. Because of this, the elders allowed the adoption—on one condition: if Lady Vienna died, Aster would have to leave the coven.

Lady Vienna’s death was somehow linked to Aster. The family blamed her, but the truth was that her mother had only been trying to save her.

It happened three days after Aster’s 18th birthday. She had lost consciousness and awoke as a completely different person—speaking in an unknown language, not recognizing anyone, and reacting aggressively to anyone who approached.

This continued for three days. Growing increasingly concerned, Lady Vienna suspected witchcraft and prepared for a ritual to bring her daughter back.

The ritual was scheduled for the fourth night, under the full moon. It began smoothly, but after the final chant, Lady Vienna’s body succumbed to death. A mysterious tattoo mark appeared behind Aster’s ear.

When Aster woke up, the family immediately blamed her for Lady Vienna’s death and told her she must leave the coven after the burial.

After placing a tulip on her mother’s coffin, she stepped away and left the private cemetery within the Carello mansion.

Her mother had left her a trust fund that she could use in case something happened in the future.

IN SANTOSSA CITY

A place that never sleeps—establishments and recreational areas were open 24/7. It was considered one of the happiest cities in the world.

It was a great place for opportunity seekers: jobs were abundant, and the universities were top-notch. But there was one rule to follow before staying in the city—cut all ties or relationships with any vampire, the sworn enemies of the Lycans.

The city was ruled by the oldest Lycan family—the Landons.

No vampires were allowed to enter the city.

"When I die, go to Santossa City and look for my friend Merca. She’ll guide you on what to do."

These words echoed in Aster’s mind as she traveled to the city. Her mother had said it to her countless times, almost as if she had already foreseen the future.

Lady Vienna had prepared everything—a huge trust fund to support her until she graduated, and enough money to start her own career. That was one of the reasons why the elites raised their eyebrows at her.

"Why would Lady Vienna spend her fortune on a mere human?"

That question lingered in hushed conversations.

In this world, the term elites didn’t refer to the wealthy, but to those with supernatural powers.

There were three ruling families:

The Vellaria family, vampires currently in hibernation—no one knew when they would wake.

The Landon family, the ruling Lycans of Santossa.

The Carello family, powerful witches, once led by Lady Vienna.

It was widely believed that an elite and a human could never produce offspring—their DNA was simply incompatible.

Only Lycans with Lycans, vampires with vampires, and witches with witches could produce children.

Crossbreeding between species—such as vampire to Lycan or witch—had been attempted in secret marriages throughout history. But they had never produced offspring. The DNA mismatch made it virtually impossible.

The chance of a successful hybrid was said to be one in a million.

It was 2 PM when she finally reached the restaurant where Merca had agreed to meet her.

Upon entering, a waiter ushered her to a VIP room where Merca was waiting.

After opening the door, the waiter immediately left.

Seeing Merca left Aster speechless. She looked like a goddess—an example of the perfect woman: elegant, beautiful, and charming. Even though she was already in her late forties, her beauty was exceptional.

But there was something else—something different about her. Her scent. It was the scent of a Lycan.

"Oh dearie, come here and eat with me. I know you must be tired and exhausted," Merca said, smiling warmly and gesturing for her to come in.

"No... I think I entered the wrong room. I need to go. I'm sorry, madam," Aster said, turning to leave.

"Wait! Hahaha, you really are Vienna's daughter. You already picked up my scent from that distance—fully trained, I see. Don’t worry, I won’t harm you. Vienna entrusted you to me. By the way, she was my best friend."

Aster paused, then slowly walked toward her.

"How can a witch and a Lycan be friends?" Aster asked.

"Well, come join me and I’ll tell you," Merca replied with a gentle smile.

Aster could feel it—there was no danger around Merca. Her instincts told her the woman was speaking the truth.

"I'm really sorry for your loss, dear. Vienna was my closest friend. I'm truly sad that I couldn’t attend her funeral... but you know the rules. We Lycans aren’t allowed inside the Carello compound," Merca said softly.

"She told me to look for you when she died," Aster replied.

"Oh yes, dear. But first, let’s eat before heading to your new place."

After sharing a meal and some light conversation, they made their way to a condominium building near the universities in the city.

Merca showed her the unit her mother had bought for her.

To her surprise, it wasn’t just a unit—it was the entire top floor of the building.

Fully furnished, complete with all necessities, and well taken care of, it felt like a true home.

Before leaving, Merca gave her a few tips on how to stay safe in the city and reminded her of the important rules. She handed Aster her phone number in case she ever needed help.

The next day, Aster enrolled at Santossa University.

She made a promise at her mother’s grave that she would become a doctor—to continue her mother’s humanitarian legacy.

Lady Vienna had also been a doctor in Sabrah. She helped everyone, never asking for anything in return. She often traveled to provide aid to those in need.