chapter 18

Chapter 18

Azalea moved with several emotions in her mind while she trailed behind the guards and elders towards the car that was waiting, with a jumble of conflicting thoughts in her mind, the elders of the Red Moon Pack were friendly, and the guards showed respect, but none of it eased the turmoil she felt. A combination of fear, anger, and anticipation of the unfamiliar tightened in her chest.

Taking her place in the back seat of the car, Mrs. Allysa, who had stayed mostly silent during their previous talks, smiled warmly at her. "Dear, you should feel honored," Mrs. Allysa started, her voice gentle with a touch of pride. Marrying the oldest prince is a wonderful honor. In the past, I was presented as a present to the monarch. It is a custom, one that enhances the connection among packs.

Azalea hardly noticed her, her gaze locked onto the path ahead. She couldn't shake off the echoes of "gift" and "tradition", leaving a bitter taste in her mouth. She was not considered a present. She was trapped in this existence, moving from one enclosure to the next. What was the honor in that situation?

Mrs. Allysa appeared unaffected by Azalea's silence and carried on, her voice now filled with nostalgia. "When I was presented to the king, I was also afraid." I was unsure of what to anticipate, but eventually, I discovered where I belonged. You also will. Federico might appear scary, but ultimately, we each have a part to fulfill in the bigger picture.

Azalea squeezed her fists together on her lap, her thoughts moving quickly. She had no interest in the role they wanted her to take on. She could only focus on what was waiting for her in Federico's pack. Stories of the Red Moon Pack's power, cruelty, and strict leadership had been recounted to her. Federico had a reputation that caused her stomach to twist in knots.

Is he capable of being mean? Will he regard her only as a pawn, just like many others have in the past? Or would he show no emotion, be distant and detached, leaving her to manage on her own in this unfamiliar situation?

Azalea barely noticed as the car zoomed down the road, with the landscape blurring past the windows. Her mind was like a tornado, descending further and further into doubt. She had made commitments and warnings to Mack and Ophelia, but now she doubted her ability to carry them out. Was she entering a future in which her power would be taken away even more?

At the same time, in another part of the land, Federico remained in his office, gazing out the window with an empty look on his face. Hours had passed since the sun had come up, illuminating the expansive territory of the Red Moon Pack, yet Federico remained unaffected. He was seated at his desk, surrounded by his closest allies, Gabe and Jake. The pair had been by his side for many years, reliable comrades in a deceitful world.

Gabe broke the silence by saying, "They came to visit you this morning."

Federico remained facing the window. "I am aware," he responded in a monotone voice.

Jake bent over, resting his arms on the desk. "Are you choosing not to see them?"

Federico chuckled without humor. For what reason? Is it so they can feign supportiveness? Or maybe they are attempting to scheme their way to increased influence? Or to mock me for giving in too quickly to the marriage.

Gabe and Jake shared a knowing glance, acknowledging the mutual tension between them. Federico had always had a complex relationship with his brothers. There was always a hidden undertone of rivalry, resentment, and jealousy. Now, as he prepares to assume the throne, that hostility has only increased.

"They will need to become accustomed to it," Federico added, his tone becoming more stern. "This belongs to me, my pack." The inheritance that is rightfully mine. If they wish to dispute that, they are welcome to attempt. However, they will suffer defeat.

Jake gave a nod, showing his steadfast loyalty. "You are correct." They have no chance of success against you.

Nevertheless, Gabe displayed a more careful attitude. "Nevertheless, Federico, exercise caution. You are aware of the way your brothers behave. They might attempt something when you are least anticipating it.

Federico eventually looked away from the window and locked eyes with Gabe. I always exercise caution. That is the reason I am still on my feet.

The room fell silent for a brief moment as the weight of the conversation hung in the air. Gabe and Jake have consistently served as the rational forces in Federico's life, offsetting his aggressive nature with their practicality. However, even they could not ignore the developing tension within the pack. With the approaching wedding, the risks were greater than before.

Abruptly, they heard the soft notes of music, increasing in volume as time went on. It wasn't the expected soft, celebratory type of music. The noise was intense, almost overwhelming, saturating the atmosphere with the anticipation of transformation.

"Federico whispered, his expression impossible to discern, indicating their arrival."

Gabe rose to his feet, paying close attention. "It is beginning."

Jake reclined in his seat, with his arms folded. "Best of luck, Federico.”

Federico moved his chair back and stood up, his impressive height making him appear commanding. He experienced no emotions - no thrill, no anxiety, no fear. Simply put, there is nothing. This was an obligation, a requirement, not something to be praised or dreaded. His marriage was strategic, aimed at consolidating his authority and reinforcing the connections between the packs. There was no space for feelings in this situation.

While approaching the door, Gabe shouted to him. "Don't forget to stay on alert. Even amidst the festivities. Particularly during the festivities.

Federico quickly looked back and nodded slightly. "I am aware."

He left the office, leaving Gabe and Jake behind as the music grew louder, resonating throughout the halls of the Red Moon Pack's headquarters. Outside, the group was already starting to come together, the atmosphere filled with excitement for the upcoming arrival of their new Luna.

Federico walked confidently down the lengthy hallway, his pace unwavering. He wasn't required to experience emotions to understand his position in the world. He was destined for it, brought up for it. With his soon-to-be wife on her way, everything was coming together perfectly.

However, upon reaching the entrance and pushing it open, walking into the bright sunlight, a slight flicker of something began to stir within him. It was neither fear nor excitement. It was something more shadowy, something he couldn't quite identify.

He would deeply bury whatever it was. Weakness had no place in his life.

When Azalea's car arrived, Federico's expression stayed neutral, with his eyes showing a lack of emotion and a shrewdness. He was going to see his bride, but he didn't necessarily have to be interested. In the end, it was simply another piece of the puzzle, another stride

e towards solidifying his rule.

Nothing more, nothing less.