Chapter 51KaidenMirena converted the roof of my room into a shrine of some sort, and for the past few days, consulted the ancestors in preparation for the ritual. While she did that, the nerves ate away at my mind, and I spent my time pursuing leads that were close to what you would call a wild goose chase. I barely recognized myself anymore, and I barely slept, my mind plagued with thoughts I couldn't dismiss.Was Celine still alive? Would I ever see her again?“You are going to make yourself sick, Kaiden.” Sheila’s concerned eyes met mine and blinked twice, realizing that I had been staring into space for the last ten minutes. I straightened in my chair, took the cup of tea I had been drinking, which was already cold, and drowned what remained of it.Sheila sighed as she took the cup, and walked behind me. “You are so tense, let me.”Her hands dug into my shoulder blades and I stiffened. Despite everything, Sheila was still Sheila. I didn't want her getting too close.“Sheila…”S
Sheila“Your Highness! Did anyone see you come in?” Mirena asked in a hushed tone as I walked into her chambers where she was going to be staying for the next few nights. I ignored her servant girls and turned to her as she shut the door.“Do you have to keep these girls standing here? C can't they have their room?”Mirena glanced at her girls, and let out a soft chuckle. “They knew this was what they were getting into. And besides, they do not seem to be complaining.” Rolling my eyes, I sat on the couch, my legs crossing. “Wel,l whatever. I hope they are trustworthy because I would hate to hurt anyone if news of my plan comes out in the open.”My cold tone caused them to shiver as intended, and I hid a smile as I adjusted in my chair.Mirena shook her head. “None of that, Your Highness. They are more trustworthy than you think.”I brushed off the topic, eager to get what I was here for. “What did you see, Mirena?”Mirena’s smirk faded as she moved toward the small wooden table in t
Chapter 53KaidenHealer Magnus wrapped me with bandages since the bleeding refused to stop, and I grunted as each movement sent sharp pain radiating through my side. The wound Mirena gave me on my chest ran deep and pulsated angrily. My wolf could barely handle the pain and was doing everything to keep me standing, and I wondered how day four might be if we didn't find Celine soon. “This is crazy,” Damon murmured as he helped me up the stairs to my room, his grip hard on my side, digging into my bandage.“I’ve had worse,” I grunted, though even I didn’t believe my own words. Physically, I haven’t, but the emotional turmoil surpassed this pain by miles.Damon scoffed. "Bullshit. You’re barely standing, Kaiden. You can’t keep doing this."I didn’t respond. There was no point. He wouldn’t understand.Celine was out there. She was alive. That was the only thing that mattered. I would push through every ounce of agony if it meant finding her. If it meant bringing her back.We reached my
CelineI was due any day now. It was crazy how fast my baby grew compared to other wolf pregnancies which usually lasted for longer moons than mine. It was almost miraculous, and I was extremely excited to see my little bundle of joy. And hold him in my hands. “He’s going to have your eyes,” Mika said, but a part of me knew he was going to be a spitting image of his dad, to taunt me. But I would love every bit of him still just as I loved Kaiden.These were the thoughts I had, but my thoughts took a dark turn as one afternoon, days after Neil last came to see us, a black crow perched on the window sill, looking inside. I stiffened, memories of how I associated crows with bad luck when I was younger, and it being more than a coincidence coming back to me.“Go away.” I shooed it, but it returned almost immediately as if trying to prove a point. I picked up a slipper and threw it at the window, but the bird remained there, staring at me.“Ugh, stupid bird.” I cursed as my movements cau
SheilaWashing my body slowly in the warm water, I didn’t bother getting up to know Neil’s letter has been found.I took a sip of my wine as I relaxed into the bath, letting the warm water envelop me and wash my stress away. It was a full-time job being ahead of everyone and incredibly smart.Now I was sure Kaiden had sent the best men he could to follow Neil’s scent, like the brainless lover boy he was. And just as I said, I heard the numerous growls of the transformed guards and the sound of the human-form guards riding their horses, confirming my prediction.Kaiden was just too predictable. It was almost too easy.A knock at the door pulled me from my relaxation, but I didn’t bother responding. Anyone who truly needed my attention would have the sense to come in. If they hesitated, then they weren’t worth my time.I took another slow sip of my wine, savoring the rich taste.Hmm… This was what being Queen got you. Exclusively aged wine from the start of the werewolf race, exotic spi
MikaTraveling in the cold was one of the worst parts of living in the middle of nowhere, but it was nothing compared to knowing your only brother and your closest family were in trouble because he was his usual good self. One would think that being a good person was guaranteed to grant someone a good life of goodness, but it was the complete opposite. We suffered for our kindness.But people like Celine made it worth it. A while ago, I didn't understand why Neil was willing to get killed to protect her. When he told me the story of Celine saving our youngest sister when she came to visit before we sent her to live far away, my heart suddenly went out to her.I knew she was a true soul and nothing like what everyone said about her. I lived with her for a while and I didn't see the vile murderer they spoke about. I hoped she was okay. I felt terrible for leaving a heavily pregnant woman on her own, but I knew she was safe.Neil would freak out when he heard. He cared deeply for Celine,
KaidenDamon was not around to help me, so a manservant helped me head up onto the roof, for the second round of the rituals. These past few fours made me realize how much I took being a wolf, an Alpha king, for granted. I hardly ever felt physical pain, but this was running me into the ground.I only hoped I was prepared for this next ritual. I did promise to do whatever it took to find her and I was ready to. Sheila was discussing with Mirena when I got there, and the minute she saw me, she rushed to my side, her gaze softening. “Aw Kaiden, you look extremely weak. After this, I would have to give you a hot water bath therapy.” she beamed.I studied her face, and her appearance, noticing something was different. I warmed up to seeing her. How did that happen? How did I feel comforted in her presence?She saw me study her face and her smile disappeared as she seemed to remember something.“Oh, if your mate allows that is. I may be your wife, but I know where we stand.”“Your Highnes
SheilaThe sight we were met with when we entered Neil’s dungeon was that brought a smile to my face.Mirena had told me her plan the moment she captured the bastard’s sister, but I had my doubts, making up my mind to pick the pieces if it didn't work.It worked perfectly. Neil was frozen as we got in, his eyes pinned on his sister, empty col,d and unshaken. Instead, he stood rigid, his jaw clenched so tightly I could see the muscles twitching beneath his skin.Good.Mirena walked forward, her smirk triumphant. She knew exactly what she was doing."Nothing to say, Neil?" she taunted, circling him like a predator. "No threats? No clever retorts?"Neil didn't move, but I saw the flicker in his eyes. Anger. Desperation.His sister was barely conscious, slumped against the chain, her breathing labored as she struggled to heal against the torture she went through protecting Celine. It was almost poetic. She and Kaiden going through the same pain for opposite reasons. Kaiden to find her, Mi
I shot to my feet. My whole body trembled. “Stop—” Tasha glanced at me in shock, before grabbed my wrist, stopping me. “Thought you were immune to his charms but see you at the edge of your seat.” She smirked at me.“I just hate when people cheat that’s all.” “He’ll be fine.” But even she sounded unsure. My heart pounded painfully against my ribs. Kaiden staggered, his breaths ragged. I could see the pain in the way he held himself, in the stiffness of his movements. But he didn’t fall. He didn’t stop. Kaiden lifted his head, his dark gaze locking onto Orion like a wolf who had just chosen his prey. A slow shiver ran down my spine. Orion charged again. This time, Kaiden let him, not doing anything to avoid the attack, making me nervous for what he planned. At the last second, Kaiden twisted, grabbed Orion by the scruff of his neck, and threw him straight into Darius. The two wolves crashed to the ground in a heap of limbs. The arena exploded into cheers, but I barely he
I shot to my feet. My whole body trembled. “Stop—” Tasha glanced at me in shock, before grabbed my wrist, stopping me. “Thought you were immune to his charms but see you at the edge of your seat.” She smirked at me.“I just hate when people cheat that’s all.” “He’ll be fine.” But even she sounded unsure. My heart pounded painfully against my ribs. Kaiden staggered, his breaths ragged. I could see the pain in the way he held himself, in the stiffness of his movements. But he didn’t fall. He didn’t stop. Kaiden lifted his head, his dark gaze locking onto Orion like a wolf who had just chosen his prey. A slow shiver ran down my spine. Orion charged again. This time, Kaiden let him, not doing anything to avoid the attack, making me nervous for what he planned. At the last second, Kaiden twisted, grabbed Orion by the scruff of his neck, and threw him straight into Darius. The two wolves crashed to the ground in a heap of limbs. The arena exploded into cheers, but I barely he
CelineThe first competition was The Grand Hunt, the first brutal test of skill and survival.The rules were simple:Hunt down the marked beast before anyone else.Avoid the hidden traps scattered throughout the forest.Outrun, outfight, or outsmart rival competitors trying to take you down.The first to bring the beast’s head to the podium wins.Sounds easy? It’s not. The beast wasn’t just any animal, it was enhanced with magic, making it faster, stronger, and deadlier. The forest itself was enchanted, filled with tricks to throw hunters off course.This wasn’t just about strength. It was about instincts, strategy, and knowing exactly when to attack, or when to hide.Each team of Alphas led by the king were to enter into the forest through three individual entrances, and they were allowed to arm each other, but none of them were allowed to kill.Kaiden stood in front of his Alphas, some changed into wolves, and some in human forms, just like the other kingdoms. Kaiden’s kingdom was
CelineThe next morning, i was up and serving Kaiden as soon as possible. The hunting competitin was starting today and it was his first, his brother being the one who used to attend before. I knew this because Anya and i used to be close, before Sheila happened.I knew he might be nervous. He was silent when i entered, and hours after i prepared him for today, so i thought of lifting his spirits with a tea.“Here, your highness,” I said, placing the steaming hot cup of tea on his desk. “This should help you with your tasks for today.”He barely glanced at the cup, focusing on the documents in his hands. “I did not ask for tea.”I almost rolled my eyes, but I stopped myself. “Yes, I just felt it should help. You seem a bit tense, and I thought you might need it.”He turned his attention to the cup, then to me, his eyes searching mine.“Thank you. Seems we have a caring one here.” He said, a ghost of a smile on his lips.I chuckled nervously, sliding my hair out of my face. “No, it's j
Celine“Ugh, I heard some maid got to be the King’s maid even before the darn list came out! And it’s the hot one, not the other married ones.”The room was in a frenzy as soon as that was said, and I groaned, changing into our evening uniform.The list was out, and almost all the girls hated that they were not assigned to the king and were actively hunting for the girl who was the maid. I hated to admit it, but a part of me was overjoyed that no other maid had been assigned to Kaiden. They were ready to take advantage of the fact that he came without a Luna, and that did not sit well with me.Where was Sheila anyway?And why did Kaiden request I be his maid? Was he suspecting me? Of course he was; he caught me eavesdropping on their important meeting. I just had to make sure I stayed out his way, and found the key before anything. I had to be extra careful with my identity. I could not risk anything coming between me getting my mother back.But how do I handle myself being in the s
KaidenThe minute I saw the island, I knew Damon would do anything to be here right now.Luckily for the maids, I did not bring my pig of a beta.The maids were all lined up, and they bowed as I was led into the Castle meeting room. The head maid walked up to me and gave me a bow. “Your highness.” She batted her eyelashes suggestively at me. “Well come.”My gaze schemed over her as the Alphas arrived one by one. I took a seat at the head of the long table, leaning back as the room filled with voices and footsteps. The Alphas greeted each other, exchanging nods and brief handshakes before settling in.Alpha Van sat to my right, his sharp gaze scanning the room. “Let’s get this over with,” he muttered. “We all know why we’re here.”Damon had briefed me on every Alpha and what the Alpha Competition was a front for. The competition held, yes, the prisoners were just as important, but not to us. It was a bigger story entirely, our only job being to hold the key.He also told me the brief o
CelineShould I reveal myself to Kaiden?No. What if he still held a grudge against me for Anya’s death? I touched the ring in my pocket. Would a simple ring convince him or change his mind?A sigh left my lips as Tasha and the other maids chatted as the other Alphas arrived.“I want to serve the king. Maybe he would like me to give him a massage or something.” The maid next to Tasha muttered, and my gaze snapped to her. I didn't want to say anything, but jealousy brewed within me. Tasha chuckled. “He seems so strict. We would have to wait till they were done with their meeting before knowing who we were assigned to. I also would love to show him what I can—”I shut her off, not wanting to hear the rest of that sentence. A meeting. If I could get close enough, I may be able to hear just what they may be talking about, and if there would be a hint to help me with this mission.”The minute all the Alphas stepped into the castle, I knew I had to leave the line of maids to find out more
CelineZeke did not come to see me off. It did not matter because I knew he was going to be listening so he could know when I am in danger.A part of me wished we did not have to leave things the way they were, but Deep down, I knew I was making the right decision. He would always have a space in my heart, but he could not take Kaiden’s space.“Please be careful, Celine.” Father hugged me. “ Are you sure about this? That place... It’s not just dangerous, Celine. It’s a nightmare. There’s a reason no one comes back from there.""I don’t care," I said, my voice unwavering. "She’s my mother. If she’s still alive, then I have to go. I won’t abandon her."He let out a sigh. “If you are in danger, don't forget your training. And call out to Zeke. Hee would answer.”“I would,” I said, holding the strap of my bag tight as I turned to Evelyn, Bridgette, and Penny, who carried Arienna in her arms.“My baby girl.” I cooed at my innocent baby who had no idea I was leaving and she was not going
KaidenI stared at the invitation in my hand. The quadrennial Alpha Hunting Competition, an event that was held every four years, one I had never attended, was starting today, and I was meant to participate, having never gone before. My brother went when he was Alpha, but ever since he died, it did not feel right to take his place.But I had to; I was King, and it was part of it. And to quote Damon, “quit being such an emo, and step out the palace for once.”Ever since we caught Sheila and Neil said the things he had said to me, it was hard to forgive myself for all the destruction to my life, that was all my fault. But I was done sulking. The divorce with Sheila was finalized, and the kingdom accepted the apology I gave tem. The pack was being rebuilt again and the first time in five years, things felt good again in the kingdom.Celine would want me to live again. And this competition seemed like the best way to do so.It sure would be fun to kick the ass of other kings and Alphas,