chapter 19

Chapter 19

Azalea remained seated in the car while it slowly made its way toward the imposing gates of the Red Moon Pack's domain. The scenery transformed significantly from the familiar forests of her homeland to the immense, daunting buildings that now encircled her. Looking out of the window, she was filled with thoughts about what was waiting for her. It was rumored that the lifestyle in this realm was distinct - more rigid, and severe. She pondered what part she would play in this situation, aside from being Federico's wife. Could she expect to receive respect? Is it simply viewed as yet another device for the kingdom to profit from?

The carriage slowly stopped, causing Azalea's heart to race. She inhaled deeply, preparing herself for what was about to happen. One of the guards opened the door, and she emerged gracefully, attempting to conceal the anxiety that seized her.

The courtyard was filled with people, including members of Federico's group and individuals who appeared to be important officials and visitors from nearby territories. Looking through the crowd, she scanned for faces she knew but saw no one she recognized. She stood proudly, unwilling to display any weakness.

From the other side of the courtyard, two women walked towards her, displaying wide, practiced smiles on their faces. Azalea immediately identified Queen Selena and Queen Lucia. Their outfits sparkled in the sunlight, with gems shining with each step they took. They appeared regal, embodying the queens they were expected to be, but Azalea was aware of the truth. She could feel the insincerity in their faces. They weren't truly happy, despite their smiles.

"Princess Azalea, it is my pleasure to welcome you," greeted Queen Selena with a sweet yet insincere tone.

Queen Lucia said with the same hollow tone, “We are very happy to have you here.” "Today is an important day for our realm."

Azalea respectfully lowered her head, even though she struggled to feel truly appreciative. These women were not present due to charitable intentions. By the discreet way they shared looks, she could perceive a hidden depth in their eyes beneath their friendly pretenses.

Before either queen could speak further, a deep voice interrupted, breaking through the facade. "Azalea ."

Glancing upwards, she instantly identified the sound of Federico's voice. He stood at a distance of a few feet, his stance stiff and commanding. He paused as his gaze met hers with an intense locking of eyes. For a brief moment, she observed him, noticing his defined features and the emotionless look on his face. Federico was different from other men - he exuded strength, yet there was a certain intensity in his eyes that gave her goosebumps. Having heard tales of his cruelty and drive, she found as she stood in front of him that the stories were not embellished.

Federico, in return, also took the opportunity to examine her carefully. He looked her up and down, carefully evaluating her with a deliberate stare. He failed to smile, lacking any demonstration of warmth. In his eyes, this marriage was merely a transaction, a vital move towards gaining power. However, when he gazed at her, he couldn't ignore her attractiveness. She stood out among the women he was familiar with. She possessed a subtle but intriguing inner strength that caught his attention, if only to a small extent.

The brief moment shared between them was filled with weighty, unexpressed thoughts. Next, the courtyard was filled with the sound of drums and music, indicating the start of the next part of the ceremony. Azalea shifted her focus to the majestic hall in front of her, where dancers were starting to assemble, prepared to guide them in.

Federico reached out his arm to her, and she took it with a composed breath. Unitedly, they proceeded to the grand hall alongside the dancers, with the rhythmic music beats resounding in the air. The hall was grand, adorned with high ceilings and majestic tapestries draping from the walls. The number of people inside had increased, with distinguished individuals in rows, ready for the ceremony to start.

Azalea kept her cool despite the pounding of her heart. She was aware of her purpose in this place. She was expected to be the ideal wife, representing the unity of their packs. However, deep within her, a tempest was growing. The life she found herself in was not what she had pictured. Nonetheless, she proceeded toward her destiny alongside a man who displayed no love, only a desire for control.

While moving towards the middle of the hall, Federico's eyes turned towards the crown resting on a velvet pillow by the altar. His lips formed a faint smile that gave Azalea a chill. She didn't understand his thoughts, but it was obvious that the crown held a deeper significance for him beyond being just a representation of power. The crown was essential for Federico to access more power. Furthermore, it would aid him in solving the puzzle of his mother's murder.

The dancers moved out of the way when they arrived at the front of the hall, and Azalea and Federico were now facing King Marcos, the current leader of the Red Moon Pack. His imposing stature demanded the focus of all in the room. Even though he was old, King Marcos exuded power, with a commanding and deep voice when he spoke.

Today, we come together to observe the marriage of our prince, Federico De Luca, and Princess Azalea of the Moonlight Pack,” declared the king, his voice echoing through the hall. "May this alliance bring power and wealth to our two countries."

Federico's siblings, Leandro and Thomas, were close by, but their faces showed they were unhappy. Both men had angry frowns on their faces and their eyes showed bitterness. They didn't desire for this marriage to occur or for Federico to become king. They could feel their jealousy and bitterness, but they stayed quiet, aware that they couldn't openly oppose their father's wishes.

King Marcos put his hands on Federico's and Azalea's heads, giving them a blessing. Upon hearing his words reverberate through the hall, Azalea experienced an odd feeling of disconnection, as though she were observing the entire event from afar. This is what her life had become, yet it all seemed unreal. She had the sensation of being dragged along by forces outside of her influence.

After giving the blessing, the king moved away, allowing the priest to enter the hall. As the priest neared the altar, clutching a ceremonial book, the murmurs of the crowd hushed. Before he spoke to the guests, he scanned the room.

The priest solemnly announced the start of the sacred marriage ceremony. "May all those in attendance observe this alliance that will bring glory and strength to our realm."

Azalea felt her heart pounding as the ceremony started in earnest. This was the moment that would determine whether her life would be connected to Federico's, whether it be for good or for bad. From the corner of her eye, she peeked at him, but his face stayed blank and impossible to interpret. He was absent for her. He was present for the authority that came with this marriage, and she was aware of it.

While the priest started saying the vows, Azalea's thoughts wandered to what lay ahead. What sort of future was in store for her in this realm? Could she ever experience joy in this place, or was she fated to merely be a pawn in the realm of power and pol

itics?

Only time would reveal the answer.