Eight in the morning. The car Philo was driving had left the palace. It was accompanied by Aaron, Era and Oscar. While Aaron accompanied Philo in the front seat, it was different for Era and Oscar. They were in the back seat with a partition installed.
Era kept reminding herself to keep her emotions in check. Instead of worrying about Oscar, who kept staring at her throughout the ride, it was better to remember the events of a while ago, especially before she left the Palace.
Era had never imagined that her departure would make the inhabitants of The Palace sad. The werewolves surrounded her like ants swarming with sugar. They offered prayers and wishes, mostly hoping that she could finish her studies quickly so she would not have to leave the Palace again. They also asked her to visit The Palace often and to keep in touch with them.
Era felt a bit amused. She was not going to a distant part of the world, just to Celestial City. Strangely, they acted as if she w
The vibration of the phone on the conference table caught Oscar's attention more than Donald's ongoing presentation. He signaled for Donald to continue, while he smiled mischievously and looked at who was calling him that morning.Oscar remained calm. He answered the call and immediately closed his eyes for a moment. Era's voice echoed in his ears, making his eyebrows furrow and his eardrums ring."Oscar!"Oscar sighed. He maintained a calm demeanor in front of the staff. "Oh, Era. Good morning to you too. I didn't expect you to call me so early. What's up?""Good morning? Hah! What are you really up to? Seth is here. Don't tell me you hired him to spy on me."Oscar's eyes scanned the room. The meeting participants were looking at him, so he decided to stand up. "Wait, I have a more important call than the innovation of organic horse breeding."Oscar stepped out of the meeting room and looked for a safe place to sit before
On the first day of the new semester, Era felt that her life was beyond redemption. No matter how hard she tried to avoid Seth, he persistently followed her. Everywhere she went, Seth was there.Era stopped in her tracks. For a moment, she closed her eyes and tilted her head back. She mentally counted to three, then turned around. She saw Seth pretending to read an article on the bulletin board."Seth."Evidence that Seth was pretending became apparent as he immediately looked up when Era called out. A moment later he approached Era enthusiastically."What's up?" Seth asked eagerly, ignoring the confused looks of some of the onlookers. "Do you need anything? Do you need my help? Just say the word and I'll do whatever you say."Era hoped her patience would last a little longer. "No, Seth. I don't need anything. I just, um, you know?" She glanced around and found that her uneasiness was justified. People were looking at her with obvious confusion. "I
"Oh, come on, Oscar. Could you at least tell Seth not to follow me around? You know? He even waited for me in the toilet."Oscar's laughter echoed, and Era had to take the phone away from her ear for a moment. She did not want her eardrums to burst from Oscar's disgusting laughter."Well, it seems he took my order literally. I told him not to take his eyes off you."Era slapped her forehead and reflexively sat down on the sofa. "That explains his behavior."Oscar laughed again."So how about it? Can you change your order to Seth a little bit? Oh, please, Oscar. I don't want to be the center of attention. Seth has been making it really hard for me to breathe this past week."Oscar's laughter faded and was replaced by a rhythmic sigh. "Does this mean we have an agreement?""What do you mean?""Your request earlier, does that mean you no longer object to Seth's presence and duties? Is that true? Because that'
Eyes closed. Body pushed back. Era ignored the slight pain when her head hit the toilet wall."You and Gerald have no relationship anymore, Era. So don't act like a little girl. Stop tempting Gerald," Barbara said, her forehead furrowed as Era took a long breath and opened her eyes."I'm tempting Gerald? Ck. Don't be ridiculous, Barbara. I'm not tempting Gerald. So let me go."Era decided that she did not need the toilet at that moment. She wanted to leave immediately and avoid trouble as much as possible.However, it seemed that Barbara did not share the same thoughts as Era. She grabbed Era's chest and pushed her back against the wall."I didn't tell you to leave. I'm not done talking to you," Barbara said.Era tried to ignore Barbara, but she couldn't. Even when she didn't respond and tried to leave again, Barbara insisted on her anger and trapped her."What else, Barbara? I told you, I'm not seducing Gerald at all. In fact, he cam
All the laughter stopped. Everything froze and they exchanged glances, then looked at Barbara, who was in shock."W-what did you just say, Era?"Era's jaw stiffened. She stared at Barbara sharply and without blinking. "Bitch.""You—""Only a bitch would act like that," Era cut in quickly, then continued. "You're a low girl. You have no manners at all. You and Gerald are a perfect match. You're both like animals."Barbara's friends were astonished. They were shocked by Era's words. Some of them even had to swallow their spit. Barbara must be really angry.More than expected. Barbara had never been cursed like that. People were always afraid of her. But Era dared to curse her to her face, as if she wasn't afraid at all."It seems like you really want trouble with me, Era."Era growled. "I'm not afraid of you, Barbara.""Oh, good," Barbara grumbled as she handed her phone to one of her friends. Her hand was free and s
Oscar's feelings were restless. He could not put it into words, but he was sure that his fear was real. So, he looked around with an uncertain focus. His mind was spinning, trying to figure out what could be wrong at this moment.Era!The voice of the wolf' spirit echoed in his head. Oscar froze. He absorbed the sensation of this name and then examined the restlessness that plagued him. His heart felt uncomfortable as it beat.There was a knock at the door. Anne entered with a file. However, Oscar immediately raised his hand and signaled for Anne to leave.Anne understood and nodded. She promptly obeyed Oscar's order and the door closed again.Oscar did not waste any time. He grabbed his cell phone and immediately called Seth."Hello, Alpha."Oscar did not need a formal greeting when his mind was in turmoil. So, he bombarded Seth with questions. "Seth, where are you right now? Are you with Era? How is Era? Is she oka
Gerald walked quickly to the toilet. He entered and found Barbara sitting on the floor with tears streaming down her face. She was crying miserably."Gerald."Gerald's eyes widened. He hurriedly approached Barbara in panic and confusion. He saw the source of Barbara's pain—her palm. "Barbara, what happened to you?""Era, Gerald," Barbara replied, still holding her right hand. She showed Gerald her bruised palm. "She's the one who made my hand like this."Gerald snarled with a hint of disbelief. "E-Era?""Yes, Gerald. She stepped on my hand. She's really cruel and heartless.""How dare Era do that to you, Barbara. I won't forgive her," Gerald roared angrily. It seemed like he had an additional reason to teach Era a lesson. "Calm down, Barbara. I will avenge you for sure. Era will bear the consequences for hurting you like this."Barbara nodded. "Thank you, Gerald.""Now, let's go to the hospital right away. Your hand needs
"Remember what I said, contact me immediately if anything happens. Do you understand?"Era rolled her eyes. "I understand, Oscar. Now, can we finish this conversation? I can't stay away from the cash register for too long, and besides, if Seth told you everything, I'm sure he also told you that I'm fine. Isn't that right?"Silence. Oscar did not answer and Era didn't really need an answer."So please, Oscar. Stop calling me about trivial things. I have a lot of activities and I can't answer your calls all the time."Only Oscar's growl echoed in Era's ears, nothing else."Fine then. I'll end this conversation, Oscar. Have a nice day."Era ended the call without saying more. She quickly put her phone in her pocket and left the toilet stall. She took the time to wash her hands at the sink before actually leaving the restroom.As Era returned to the counter, Seth stepped forward from the line and pulled out his wallet. He glanced
The sound of a heavy thud echoed as a brown-maned wolf was violently thrown to the arena floor. It whimpered quietly, but a second later it rose quickly. Strengthening its initially wobbly legs, it then leapt, intent on retaliating against the golden-maned wolf that had made it the object of ridicule for the past ten minutes.The golden wolf dodged effortlessly, as if the brown wolf's attack was nothing, completely harmless. It showed no fear and instead continued to attack with bold courage.The golden wolf's movements were very agile and nimble, causing its mane to flicker and shed shafts of light everywhere. It seemed to light up the dimly lit battle arena. Its attacks were precise, full of accuracy and power. As a result, the brown wolf was cornered, and the spectators were filled with awe.The golden wolf's claws sliced through the air with incredible speed. The brown wolf could not dodge. It chest was ripped open. It blood vessels burst.But the golden wolf didn't stop. It contin
The previous nights had indeed been painful. Era was always worried about the condition of the people around her who were experiencing bad things because of her. But at least she could still sleep, even if she woke up feeling tired. Now, on the contrary, she couldn't even close her eyes for a minute.Era's feelings were truly uncertain. Even words like anxious, uneasy, worried, or scared couldn't describe her feelings now. She was adrift, trapped between waves that kept trying to pull her into an endless ocean.Era gave up. Trying to sleep was useless. Closing her eyes only made her more exhausted. So, she got out of bed.There was only one thing Era could do now, and that was to occupy herself. She had to distract her mind. She had to keep herself busy or the clock on the wall would explode from the constant staring.Era grabbed her pajama robe and quickly put it on. Then she left the room and wasn't surprised at all to find Aaron there."Luna," Aaron greeted as he folded the newspap
Oscar was determined not to let Era's worries and fears come true. So, he made the most of the time he had left. He trained diligently, perfecting all the techniques and strategies he had learned over the years. He wouldn't let any weakness get in the way of his goal. He had to return with his life intact.However, Oscar didn't just focus on himself and the upcoming fight. He wouldn't neglect something far more important, even more important than his own life.Oscar gathered several people in his office. It was just before they left for Riverdale Bluffs.Everyone gathered. Tension hung in the air. Their faces were filled with apprehension."Tonight," Oscar began, looking at each of them. His expression showed utmost seriousness. "I am going to Riverdale Bluffs with Philo, Thad, and several warriors. Although this is a one-on-one fight between me and Nicholas, no enemy can be trusted. So, vigilance is paramount."Oscar was determined to fight with determination and not allow Nicholas t
District Marindale, more precisely in the Falindor Forest—Ryloston Pack Palace.Freddy was inhaling the aroma of an 18-year-old single malt whisky that had just been poured into a rock-cut crystal glass by Peter McKay—watcher—when Bernard arrived. He knew that Bernard must have important news. But that didn't mean Bernard's arrival should interfere with his desire to relax.The crystal glass turned slowly. There was a soft clink as the ice hit the sides, creating faint ripples in the whisky. Freddy closed his eyes and savored the first sip. So did he, not wanting to miss a single taste sensation in every drop of whisky.Bernard, understanding Freddy's nature and character, decided to remain silent for a moment. He stood still, not saying a word until Freddy finally spoke."How is it, Bernard? Any news from Xylvaneth?"Bernard lifted his face slightly. He watched Freddy, eyes closed, still enjoying the whisky. "Nothing, Alpha."The spinning of the crystal glass stopped. Freddy's relaxe
Getting enough rest was never the answer to Era's anxiety; she had proven that. No matter how often or how long she slept, it didn't make her feel better. In fact, it only made her feel worse. When she slept, she was trapped in nightmares, and when she woke up, she was faced with a grim reality."Oscar?"Era looked around to find the room silent. She was alone; Oscar was not there.A heavy feeling made Era catch her breath. It was as if hundreds of tons of weight were trying to render her powerless. However, she managed to move her body, albeit with great difficulty. She got out of bed and at the same time Aaron entered the room."Luna." Aaron approached and helped Era. "How are you feeling?"Era winced slightly. She sat down and Aaron quickly prepared a glass of warm water. "I've never felt so bad, Aaron." She accepted the warm water and took a few sips. "According to Landon, I'm fine. I just need to rest, but why does my body feel completely powerless?"Aaron took the glass back and
Era remained silent as she felt the change in the atmosphere of the room. She cleared her throat, took a deep breath and scanned her surroundings. She saw Philo, who had just said something completely absurd. I am the last descendant of the Selunar Pack? Impossible.Era then turned to Dom. She remembered that just moments ago, maybe only a few minutes before, Dom had asked her about the possibility that her parents were not her biological parents. How could he ask such a strange thing?Finally, Era looked at Oscar. She paused for a moment before finally speaking in a low voice. "No, Oscar." She shook her head. "That's not me. I don't know anything about the Selunar Pack. It's completely unfounded gossip. I am the daughter of Amiass Ross and Sylvie Blair."This time, Oscar said nothing. He just stared at Era intently without blinking. His gaze was unreadable, which made Era feel uncomfortable.Era bit her lower lip. She tried to control herself as the discomfort made her act strangely.
Day after day passed with increasing agony. The Palace of Xylvaneth was filled with an atmosphere of tension. Not only Era and Oscar, but everyone felt anxious and on guard for any possibility that could happen at any time.Era tried not to think about the terror the Ryloston Pack had caused. She knew that Oscar had already ordered Philo to go to the Ryloston Pack's palace. So, all she could do now was wait for news from Philo.Unfortunately, bad thoughts kept creeping in and trying to shake Era's composure. What if Philo's arrival only made the situation worse?Era.Era blinked. The voice of her wolf spirit echoed in her head. I am really scared.Calm down. There is nothing to be afraid of. Oscar will take care of everything.Era winced. I know that. Oscar will take care of everything, but I am really confused as to why this is happening. Dad and Dree have already been affected. What if the same thing happens to others?Era, calm down. I promise you; everything will be fine. This wil
Philo understood, four in the morning was not a usual time to check out, but that was exactly what he did. All his belongings were neatly packed into a 20-inch suitcase, and then he left the room. He took the elevator down to the lobby and checked out with the desk clerk. Then he left the hotel.Philo's car moved smoothly through the still empty streets. His intention was to reach The Palace as quickly as possible. He had to report his findings as soon as possible.Philo stepped on the accelerator. The car's speed increased and suddenly his phone vibrated. At the same time, the dashboard screen lit up, indicating an incoming call, and the name displayed made him pull over immediately. He pressed the green button on the touchscreen and answered the call."Philo."Philo's brow furrowed slightly as he answered. "Hello, Alpha." Oscar's voice sounded different, indicating tension and anger. So, he asked quickly, "What is it, Alpha?""I order you to go to Ryloston Palace immediately."That
It was not unusual for Oscar to reassemble Dom and the others after the attack on Irene. He questioned Irene thoroughly, making sure nothing was overlooked. He made sure that nothing was done hastily.Oscar wouldn't keep quiet, that much was certain. Irene wasn't hurt, but the actions of the Lynoria Pack were like a blatant confrontation, an act that shouldn't have happened. Therefore, he made sure there would be a response to any form of threat they faced."Not just intercept and attack," Oscar growled after hearing Irene's full report. His face reddened, indicating immense anger upon realizing that his emissary had been sneakily attacked. "Even a single word of mockery must be answered."If anyone understood the terrible consequences of war, it was Oscar. He had felt the sadness and agony of war, convinced that nothing good could come of it. Loss was an inevitable price to be paid by all parties. So, he vowed to avoid war as much as possible.Oscar hated war, but at the same time he