꙳𝐇𝐔𝐍𝐓𝐄𝐑꙳
"Have a sector of the army dispersed to scan the area and report back any activity" I barked out, my eagerness and anger bleeding out of my façade."Hunter, this is madness!" Vivian exclaimed, throwing her hands in the air in exasperation.I ignored her ranting, continuing my walk to my office. Pushing the door open I walked up to the leather chair, my heart thumping slowly as time seemed to still around me. Running my hand along the leather I pushed it back, dropping down ceremoniously on the chair I had despised all my life. Swaying around I smiled wickedly, pride washing over me.If only he could see me now."Hunter!" Vivian's nasal voice broke through my trance. I was forcefully pulled back, coming face to face with her aggravated features. "Don't fucking ignore me!"I smiled, cocking my head to the side, "I'm not. I'm choosing to not listen to you""You are not thinking straight Hunter!" She screamed agitated. "It will be very unwise to send all our warriors on a suicide mission! You are the new Alpha Hunter! You will bring this pack into ruins""I am the Alpha of this pack dear sister so whatever I command is obeyed" I said, slowly."So as the Alpha you want to send all our warriors to look for that foolish girl! Why?" She cried out desperately, angrily glaring daggers at me."That foolish girl is my mate" I answered simply, my low tone challenging her."She is not your mate Hunter" the Luna interrupted, walking into the room with a distasteful scowl etched on her face."She is the Alpha King's mate. You saw what happened to father when he tried to raise a hand to her" Vivian reminded me. I recalled the gruesome scene flashing in my mind. The way the King gripped the Alpha's neck, a deafening growl resonating through the hall. I could not see much soon after I had fallen on my knees, my head bowed in submission. His wolf had paid a visit, his Alpha tone dripping with dominance and authority. Even I could not withstand its power and ferocity. That had cost me my love, my mate. Audrey."Let us not forget, that Audrey girl is going to be a lot of trouble for us" the Luna added, staring directly at me."What do you mean by that mother?" I ask, an eye brow raised my tone demanding an answer."Well you know very well our pack is not the most responsible one out there. We run illegal businesses that girl is well aware of that and if she says a word to the king then" she stopped, her pupils widening with fear. "I don't know what he will do to us especially if he finds out we have been mistreating his precious mate""My mate" I growled, bringing her gaze back to me. Her eyes were cold and distant as they stared into mine, their bright blue a splitting replica of mine. "Bottom line we have to get her back and once she is back no one" I sounded, gazing between the two. "And I mean no one will treat her badly ever again""How do we get that-" I shot her a deadly glare, shutting her down instantly. "How do we bring her back exactly? I mean the king is well, the king""She doesn't deserve to even be near him and now she is his mate. Everything is going to go downhill from here" mother chimed in. For once I could see fear in her eyes.I was no where near afraid, no. I was worried. The king was a powerful old being of immense strength. He had lived for centuries, ampnsgt the first breeds of our kind. We were creatures who had the primal instincts to protect and love our mates and the king had been deprived of his mate for centuries. Now he had mistakes my mate for his and I swore he would not get away with it. "We could get the neighboring packs to team up with us to finally bring him down" I said vaguely staring at the table deep in thought."That's bullshit it would never work. The King's army is a hundred times more powerful and larger than all the packs combined!" she exploded"Well then we need reinforcements"♡𝐀𝐔𝐃𝐑𝐄𝐘♡I fisted the sheets, my knuckles turning white. Frustration gnawed at my skin, making my head hurt and my brows furrow. I had become restless, after the tragedy that was our second encounter I had not seen his highness in a space of three weeks. I was beginning to think he wasn't going to come back but earlier today while I flipped through the pages of the book Faye had lent me she informed me his majesty would be coming to my chambers tonight. For some reason I was quite anxious. Had I angered him with my confession? I wondered. I was no longer as terrified as I used to be, It was clear he wasn't going to punish me, he had made it pretty obvious. For some reason I believed him, was it stupid of me? He was the King after all, if he actually wanted to hurt or get me killed he would have done so by now but the fact remained he hadn't. He had tried his best to assure me that I was safe here with him, the most powerful man that existed. I awaited his arrival, perched at t
𝐀𝐔𝐃𝐑𝐄𝐘✤Strong pair of arms tightened around my frame, rendering me immobile. "D-darius" I called out, barely able to breathe to properly voice his name. "No" he growled, dipping his head to the crook of my neck. "You will go nowhere" he grunts, taking in my scent. I shuddered involuntarily, goosebumps rising all over my skin. His lips grazed the nape of my neck and I froze, my heart palpitating in my chest. "Darius" I voiced out breathlessly, shivering even with the amount of heat his body was emitting. I felt my insides twist, all my sense of defense and survival flying out the window as my limbs went rigid. "You are mine Audrey and you will never leave me" he growled possessively, the pain and uncertainty in his voice sipping through the cracks. My already wide eyes widened even more as I let his words sink in. Wolves only became this possessive when it had to do with their... His next words confirmed my thoughts and I felt my whole world crumble in that one second. Ev
𖡃𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐃𝐀𝐑𝐈𝐔𝐒𖡃/𝐤𝐢𝐧 𝐝æ𝐫𝐢^𝐬 𝐥/The evening sun had set, her bright rays sipping through the gapes of the curtains and dancing along my closed eyelids. I let my eyes open, a sigh leaving my lips. She did not rebuke me, she gave me my gift. After so many centuries I finally found her. She fell right at my feet, the sweetest mixture of flowers and vanilla wafted up my nostrils, leaving me dazed for a second. Her scent was so strong yet so gentle it had phoenix growling with want and something I never thought I would be able to feel again. Possessiveness. She smelt so deliciously enticing it was intoxicating. "𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐬" phoenix growled, realization snapping me out for my daze. "Claim mate, mate" he pushed, threatening to surface before I reigned him in, assuring him our mate would be going nowhere. I let my eyes travel down her form and I felt all the air get stuck in my lungs. She was breathtaking. Dark curls framed the curve of her face, a few tendrils at the
"You need to learn how to keep him under control" Ryker whispered, according to the sensitive topic with the tenderness it deserved. "I can't keep him under control" I shook my head, looking black at her beautiful face. I felt the ache in my chest ease up a bit. She made it all better. "You know it's coming" I spoke vaguely, looking back up at Ryker. His peculiar orbs held fear and restraint. He knew what was coming and what he had to do. It was never easy on him. It was never easy on any of them. "But she's here. It can be different" he pitched in, invading my mental debate.I shook my head, looking back at him, "You see what happens? Phoenix is dangerous, he's getting out and when he does.. " I trailed off, taking my eyes back to the only piece of salvation I had right now. Was she meant for this? No, I couldn't risk her like that. "It's two celestial events away Darius" he reminded me, making my hands go rigid, stopping me from tracing the curve of Audrey's face. Her skin alway
❉𝐀𝐔𝐃𝐑𝐄𝐘❉I watched the little specks of dust float in the air into nothingness. The salty taste that lingered on my lips had not yet faded, the cruel reality that was my life slipping through the cracks. I tightened my hands around my legs, burying my head further into my knees. Another sob wracked through my body, my chest tightening the more as an overwhelming sense of pain overtook me. I knew it wasn't mine, it had to be his, was he as sad as I was? Really? I was miserable, all the hope that once gleamed in my eyes had been dimmed, all the light and joy in them darkened with my soul. I had no idea for how long I stayed here but I hadn't seen another person for as long as I could recall. Faye had tried severally to get me to open up and take the food she unfailingly brought every single day but I refused. She tried time and time again to convince me to get up and at least lay on the bed but I ignored her, turning over to the other side, away from her face. She always let o
𝐀𝐔𝐃𝐑𝐄𝐘✥I didn't have enough time to react before my legs were hauling me to the toilet as I emptied the little contents that resided in my stomach. It felt like I was throwing my entire insides out into the toilet. I couldn't stop my gagging as I felt a thug on my hair, my curls were pulled back and held tightly in a bun. Calloused hand soothingly rubbed circles around my back as I continued to empty my guts out. I continued to hurl till I got so tired I fell back on my butt. I didn't have the luxury of staying for long before I was picked up bridal style from the floor. I felt so drained and tired I couldn't protest or make any move to resist as Darius proceeded to carry me into my room. I watched his face with half lidded eyes, sleep pulling at my consciousness every so often. I hadn't gotten any sleep for days and I was sure at this point I had dark circles under my eyes, but I honestly didn't care. He didn't seem to care that I looked horrible and smelt even worse as he c
KING DARIUS/ᏦᎨᏁ ᎠæᏒᎨ^Ꮥ/"She's here boss" Ryker informs me through the mind link. "We just came into the kitchen, Faye's making dinner"I could hear little footsteps padding down a path and I knew all too well whose it was. I let my mind wander as I focused on her little feet. It was the closest thing to serenity both Phoenix and I had felt in the last couple of weeks. Images of that night flashed through my mind like it was yesterday- her sunken cheeks, the dark circles that rimmed her eyes, her pale skin that had turned an almost dark shade and the red body fluid that dripped from the corner of her lips. The scene still haunted my mind till this day. Immediately I had gotten her to her bed safetly I waisted no time in mind linking the pack senior doctor. He was more experienced than the last one that came here. I didn't need an amateur attending to my mate, the situation was dire and it needed to be treated with such importance. The doctor arrived a few minutes later, heavily equip
AUDREYI watched Faye intently as she chopped the vegetables into little pieces and added them to the pan that sat on fire. I never took an interest in learning how to cook when I was younger, mother always tried to engage me in kitchen chores but I hated them. She would always ask me, "One day when you get married to your mate and he's hungry what would you cook for him if you don't learn how to cook!?" I was too young to read any meaning into it, my response was always "If he's hungry he'll make something for himself. He wouldn't need to, I would be more than enough for him mama". Immediately after I said that mother would get so annoyed she would chase me around the kitchen with the spatula in her hand. Giggles spilled from my lips as I diverted, running straight into my father's outsretched arms. He would pick me up, spin me around and throw me over his shoulder just to hear my giggles once again. He settled me on his hip, flicking my nose making me snort as I pushed his hand awa
ELARAHis midnight dark mane, soft, ethereal, beautiful and full against my fingers. Brushing through, she smiles, rubbing affectionately against his coat. "Such a beautiful boy, that's you, yes you are" she gushes, admiring the elegant steed she had found in the stables. Reluctantly the stable boy had allowed her comb through his coat, no doubt worried I would cause him a scolding. He looked utterly terrified by the idea, taking a handful of time to stare at me like he was not seeing correctly. Another reason for me to ponder how such a magnificent estate had come from the hands of such a man as Lord Sawyer, not a wonder how everyone in the duchy believed him to be a decent man, not knowing what he is capable of. Did anyone truly know him? Or were they just charmed and transfixed by his deceptive appearance and riches. No doubt everything about him screamed eligible bachelor to all; his success in the March, his properties, his name and handsome mask as he paraded himself around.
Now I was beginning to regret not having a plan. Leading by impulse? Horrible decision. And as my feet took me from the beginning of the hall to the end, my fingers tugging and twisting at a lock of my hair I wondered what room was Ryker's. There were six doors, all identical with no distinction of which belonged to who. If I opened the wrong door I could come face to face with one of the male servant. At least I was in the male servants quarters so one of these doors had to be Ryker's Right about now I wished objects could speak. Maybe whisper to me who their owners were. Just wistful thinking. Taking a stand in the middle of the doors, I glanced between them. Maybe the door on the last row? I could just walk up to the door and knock, what is the worst that could happen? "My lady?" The assistant chef eyed me curiously. I gulped. He cocked his head to the side, "What brings you here... " he peaks into the hallways, no doubt wondering why I was here alone. "Alone" "
ELARA Stepping out under the warm sun, the sound of birds singing in the distance brought peace to my soul and I instantly felt better. I had finally managed to convince Winnie to take me outside to the back garden, it was not as extensive as the one back home. This one was more controlled, restricted. Pavements limited the growing trees, the shrubs well cut and trimmed, the flower's beautiful hues were dull. Pathways parted the shrubs, creating a tidy, orderly harmony between civilisation and greenery. Something I appreciated not having at home. Nature was supposed to be allowed to run wild, trees should be permitted to grow as tall and as far as they wished. We dared not restrict those that came before us. They allowed us live and walk on their roots, breathe in the oxygen they gift us, use them for medicine and herbs. I was thankful nonetheless, I would be able to feel some grass and have the golden rays of the sun tou
ELARA As I slowly emerge from the tangled web of my dreams, I feel the weight of my own exhaustion. My eyelids, heavy as stone, struggle to lift, like the gates of a besieged castle. The air is thick and cold, clinging to my skin like a damp shroud. I shiver, despite the warmth of my velvet bed. Sweat coated my forehead, my cheeks hot. I slowly look around, trying to take in my environment. Yes I sat in bed, but I was not in my bed, not my room. This room was nothing like mine. Where was I? And what happened? My head throbbed, making me hiss in pain. My thoughts are foggy, as if shrouded in a mist that refuses to lift. I try to recall the details of my dream, but they slip through my fingers like sand. Fragments remain: the sound of hooves on the ground, the feel of rough hands around me, safety,comfort surrounding me. The whispered words of a stranger. But the meaning, the thread that weaves it all together, remains elusive. I sit up, my head spins, and I must grasp th
I beckon my ladies forward with me as I took a step into the tent but the guards stopped us. "Apologies my lady, but the Lord does not wish for any visitors. He is still with the physician so he wishes to not be disturbed"One of the guard's informed. Guess this was my sign. "Okay, no worries. We will leave then""My lady, forgive us. We were not clear, he only wishes for you to enter" I glanced towards my ladies. Camilla shook her head, telling me not to go in, Winnie shrugged and Philippa nodded at me with encouragement. "Please, wait out here for me. I will not be long" I bid them farewell as I stepped inside and the curtains closed behind me. Just a short, courteous visit. But the moment my eyes fell on Lord Sawyer, sprawled over his fur bed, half naked my throat went dry. The physician stood close to him, leaning over to inspect the bruise that had formed
Amidst the verdant lists, where valorous knights didst gather, a grand tournament unfolded, like a tapestry to ponder. The sun cast its golden rays upon the scene, as nobles, knights, and commoners congregated, their spirits serene. The air was alive with anticipation, a symphony of delight, as heralds trumpeted the arrival of the competitors, a majestic sight.The crowd's murmurs swelled to cheers, a deafening crescendo. The knights, resplendent in armor, rode forth, their banners to show.I as the lady of the tournament, stood poised, a gentle smile to bless the knights, and grant them fortune, in this test of skill and guile. With a delicate touch, I bestowed a favor, a token of esteem, a scarf, a flower, or a ribbon, to bind their hearts, and seal their dream. When I had heard I was to be the lady of the tournament I had to express my distaste for the sport to Augustine, but never to father. I could never oppose father, I could only grumble
Everyone else around us had recovered quickly, ready to change their steps while we stood there, staring at each other. I inhaled a deep breath and closed the space between us. Ryker understood and placed his hands on my waist, mine winding up his shoulder, our forms pressed. I gulped, my eyes meeting his. The last time we were this close, it did not end innocently. The way I so boldly kissed him, and for a second he kissed me back. His lips melted against mine, claimed my first kiss, his hands tainted my skin, branding me. As I stared into his eyes, the flash backs came flooding my mind. Briefly his eyes dropped down to my lips bit he quickly looked away, not quick enough for me not to notice. ♡ Song: Ma Meilleure Ennemie (from the series Arcane League of Legends) ♡She stood close to him, her body almost touching his. The music was slow and sensual, with a strong beat that seemed to pulse through thei
Azure blue eyes stared back at me, their depths unreadable, black and full of mist, but it was a pair of amethyst violet orbs that flashed behind my eyes. Plum lips painted in red tint tingles in remembrance. Warm lips pressed against mine in fevor, thirst, desire, at least that's how it felt. His hands all over me, holding me tight, claiming me, sending pleasures shivers down my whole form. And then just like that my fantasy is ruined, reality shattering all my hopes. "You look so beautiful my lady!" Philippa exclaims, watching my reflection in adoration. I smiled halfheartedly, "Thank you, Philippa" She winks at me, "I'm certain the Lord will not be able to take his eyes off you"Seriously? Was I call dolled up for someone I did not even desire, meanwhile the one I truly wished to be with could not be any further away from me, despite being within my reach. The forbidden fruit is always the sweetest they say. What was my life? I deflate into my seat, glaring at my ref
"If it was a piece of paper, I would tear it. If it was a bottle, I would break it, if it was a wall, I would tear it down - But it's my heart" ~Mahmoud DarwishThe words sunk so deeply, creating a large gap in my soul. There was just something so devastatingly beautiful about romantic poetry, I loved it to no end. The idea of loving someone to the point that you yearn for them, their very person, every inch of their skin, every habit of theirs, every peculiar trait is picked, loved and immortalized. I wished someone could love me like these poets loved their muse. I wish I could be someone's muse, but between Ryker rejecting me and father so adamant about me forming a relationship with Sir Blackwood I was very much far from that dream. Reading about such soul crushing love made me want to experience it even more, to love someone with every bone in your body. To learn a person so deeply they echoed in your subconscious, what sweet torture. Was this what the love of a mate wa