Zane's POVKaren had just opened her mouth to respond to my misgivings when a commotion at the entrance of the throne room diverted our attention. In strode a tall, towering figure in piercing blue eyes and jet-black hair, arresting all attention.Karen's eyes slitted as her gaze settled on the newcomer, curiosity and suspicion warring for dominance in her gaze. I, however, knew the emissary from the Moonstone pack, and I nodded in greeting."Hello, Zane," the envoy said in a deep voice that rumbled around the room. "I come bearing a message from the Moonstone pack's alpha, Rowan.Karen's eyes snapped to mine, a spark of interest igniting within them. "What does Rowan want?" she asked, her voice tinged with a hint of curiosity.Turning toward Karen, his manner was courteous but formal. "Rowan seeks the helping hands of your workers, Zane, to start the work of a new healing center, one for both our packs," he said. "He requests that you send a team of skilled workers to assist in the b
Zane's POVDeep in thought, walking further along the gardens, thinking deeply of Karen, then Selena and also the pack Moonstone. But somewhere somehow my consciousness urged and called for my appearance in front of the hidden cave which held Aeges.I had not been in the cave for ages, and I did not know why this sudden urge had overcome me to go there. Yet, something in the serenity of the garden and the quietness of the evening called me toward the cave.I made my way out of the garden and through the palace grounds, my feet carrying me with a sense of purpose to the cave. The sun was much lower now, casting long shadows across the ground, illuminating the trees in warm, golden light.As I walked, the trees grew closer together, and the air grew cooler and damper. I could hear the sound of running water up ahead, and I knew that I was getting close to the cave.Finally, I came out from behind the trees and had the entrance to the cave before me. The opening was a huge, yawning mouth
Zane's P.O.VI whirled, my heart racing as Karen's voice cut into the silence. "Zane!"Her eyes narrowed, her brow furrowed in worry as she took in my form standing before the stone Aeges. The calm after the storm."What are you doing here?" I tried to sound composed instead of surprised.Karen's eyes darted to the stone and back to me. "I might ask you the same thing," she said, an accusation laced into her tone. "You know this is a sacred place."A surge of wariness entered my mind as Karen seemed to stare into mine as if she could read into them. "I came to meditate," I said, trying to remain neutral.Karen raised an eyebrow. "Meditate? With the Aeges stone?" Her voice just oozed skepticism.I steeled myself and looked right at her. "I needed direction," I said matter-of-factly.Karen's face was a little softer then, but more of a calculative expression. "Direction?" she repeated. "From the Aeges stone?A prickle of apprehension rose as Karen drew closer, her eyes bright with curio
Zane's P.O.V.As I stared at Karen's entrancing stride toward the Aeges stone, a chill of dismay and confusion crossed my mind. What in the world had pushed my sister to such an extent of yearning for power?I thought back to our childhood, growing up together in the pack. Karen had always been ambitious, but a sense of loyalty and duty to our family and pack had tempered her drive.But as time wore on, Karen's ambition soured into a hungry lust for power. Karen became a cruel, anything-to-reach-her-goals kind of person who didn't value anyone else that stood in her way.Was this some dark magic she had been reading about, or was there more to this? Had Karen always been like this, and I hadn't seen it?I just stood there, frozen in contemplation, with Karen's words echoing through my head: "The power of the Aeges stone will soon be mine." I knew that I had to thwart her, but another voice within me asked what could make even my sister go that way.Was it for the validation, for the r
Selena's PovRaven's eyes glinted as she walked into the room, flashing her pearly whites in a brilliant smile. "I gotta say, Seer you are looking particularly handsome today," she said in that throaty, husky voice that sent shivers running down my spine. She came closer to me with confident fluidity.I felt my surprise surge with her words, and my heart skipped a beat. Raven was flirting with me, and I didn't know how to react. A she wolf disguising herself as a male wolf, I hadn't anticipated drawing any romantic attention.But as I looked into the glittering eyes of Raven, I couldn't but be drawn to her in small ways. She was so charming, energetic, and seriously appeared interested in getting to know me. Her black hair cascaded down her back like a waterfall of night, green eyes sparkling like emeralds in the dimly lit room.I smiled back at her, coolly. "Well, thank you, Raven," I said, trying to sound smooth. "You're looking lovely yourself." I gestured toward a chair near her,
Selena's P.O.V.I trailed my way to the chamber of Alpha Rowan because my heart was going berserk with anticipation. Summoned by the alpha himself and oblivious about what to expect.As I entered the chambers, Alpha Rowan sat behind his desk, a look of seriousness upon his face. "Ah, Seer," he said, nodding at me. "Thank you for coming. I have some important news to share with you."I nodded and sat down in front of his desk. "Of course, Alpha," I replied with as much respect as possible.Alpha Rowan leaned further forward, his eyes meeting mine. "The first lot of workers from Moonstone Pack has arrived," he said, sounding excited for once. "And I have instructed that work on the clinic should begin.Impossible-the workers coming soon was expected, but so soon to start the building, I really wouldn't have thought."That's great news, Alpha," I tried to infuse some enthusiasm into my voice. "It will no doubt be quite an asset for the pack."A small smile that turned a bit wider as Alph
Selena's P.O.V.The more the day passed by, the more and more Raven hounded me to go to the hunt. With eyes aglow with excitement, she would pop up at any time and ask whether I was ready for that big night.First, I tried getting her off my back by informing her I had to attend to healer duties, but Raven was never one to quit and she'd only laugh it off, saying I needed a break, time to have fun.The sun had just about set, and before me again was Raven. But now in her eyes flashed the sharp gleam of mischief. "Come on, Seer," she whispered throatily, "time to prepare for the hunt. I'll see you at the rally point in 30 minutes."I blew a resigned sigh as resignation washed over me. At least, apparently Raven would not be content to let me avoid this hunting expedition, and quite honestly, I did feel a bit like the tide-being swept along."Fine," I said, aloud, in an effort to sound light. "I will meet you at the muster point. But do not depend on me for pulling a lot of weight for y
Selena's P.O.V. The more the day passed by, the more and more Raven hounded me to go to the hunt. With eyes aglow with excitement, she would pop up at any time and ask whether I was ready for that big night. First, I tried getting her off my back by informing her I had to attend to healer duties, but Raven was never one to quit and she'd only laugh it off, saying I needed a break, time to have fun. The sun had just about set, and before me again was Raven. But now in her eyes flashed the sharp gleam of mischief. "Come on, Seer," she whispered throatily, "time to prepare for the hunt. I'll see you at the rally point in 30 minutes." I blew a resigned sigh as resignation washed over me. At least, apparently Raven would not be content to let me avoid this hunting expedition, and quite honestly, I did feel a bit like the tide-being swept along. "Fine," I said, aloud, in an effort to sound light. "I will meet you at the muster point. But do not depend on me for pulling a lot of wei
Karen's POVI knew I had to get some rest, had to let my body and mind recover from the turmoil of the day. And so, I made my way to my bed, my movements slow and deliberate as I climbed under the covers.I lay there, my eyes closed as I felt my body begin to relax. Sara's presence was still there, still simmering just below the surface. But I knew I could control her, knew I could keep her at bay.As I drifted off to sleep, I felt a sense of peace wash over me. I knew that tomorrow would bring its own set of challenges, its own set of battles to fight. But for now, I could rest.But my rest was short-lived. As I slept, I began to dream. And in my dream, I saw a figure, a female werewolf with piercing green eyes and a fierce determination etched on her face."You're playing with fire, Karen," she said, her voice low and husky. "Your plans will lead you to your grave, mark my words."I tried to respond, but my voice was caught in my throat. I tried to move, but my body was frozen in pl
Karen's POVI stormed out of the room, my anger towering to heights as I had watched the one I love sink into the hands of one I tried to kill severally, Selena.I could feel my wolf within me stirring strangely, and this caught me surprise."Easy now Sara, I'm trying to think!!" I commanded my wolf, louder than usual. As I did that I raised my head almost immediately, turning around to look at the guard who stood post around me. Their eyes were at me at first, but they turned their head away as soon as my gaze darted through.My wolf continued to stir, prompting me to try and force her down, but she was having none of it."Quit it now I say!!" I roared again, placing my hand at my mouth almost immediately. My actions were beginning to be uncontrolled, and this added to my fear. What was going on?My face became a mask of fury, my eyes blazing with anger as I continued to move towards my chamber. Was the effect of my fall out with Zane beginning to way off on me?Shaking my head viol
Rowan's POVI became desperate, my blood running fast as I took quick uncontrolled steps towards her."Look, your life lies in my palms," I began to say, signalling the warriors to let go of her hands as I stared deep into her eyes. "Tell me what to do, and I'll honor your stay here. "She gave out a loud laugh, her fangs visible. She looked deep into my eyes, squinting hers. "And how do you think I'll be interested in such an offer?"I was confused. " Wait, you hate your life?"She shook her head vehemently, taking steps away from me.Ignoring my question, she headed to the throne. The guards that stood with her were alarmed as they attempted to rush to her, their claws shot out, but I restricted them, watching her closely.She moved around strangely like one possessed of several wolves."You wish to fight against the principles of prophesy, Rowan, " she said, giving out a mirthless laugh and taking a quick turn to face me. "You'd lead yourself sooner or later to your own downfall."
Rowan's POVWell, well, well," Kael said, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "Look what we have here. The great Alpha Rowan, risen from the dead."I aimed the knife at Kael, my eyes locked on his. "You're not going to be the new alpha, Kael," I growled, my voice low and menacing. "Not while I'm still alive."Kael's expression changed, his eyes narrowing as he realized I was a threat to his plans. He sneered at me, his claws shooting out as he gave a hissing sound"We'll see about that, Rowan," Kael said, his voice dripping with malice. "Let's settle this once and for all."I smiled, my eyes locked on Kael's. "I'm ready for you, Kael," I said, my voice steady and calm. "Let's end this."And with that he rushed towards me, his fangs shooting out and his eyes turning blood red. I stood still, a smile still flickering on my face. This would be a very short fight, and I knew it.He got to me, wiping his claws as I expected directly on the cut part of my hand.I smiled, releasing the knife I
Rowan's POVI broke the surface, gasping for air, and that's when I saw them. Three giant crocodiles, their eyes fixed on me, their jaws open wide. They were heading straight for me, their powerful tails propelling them through the water.My heart skipped a beat, and I felt a wave of panic wash over me. I was trapped, stuck in the water with no way to defend myself. The crocodiles were closing in, their teeth bared and ready to strike.I knew I had to act fast, or I would be dinner. But my mind was a blank, my thoughts frozen in fear. I was paralyzed, unable to move or react.And then, just as all hope seemed lost, I felt my wolf surge to the forefront. It was a primal, instinctual response, one that took over my body and mind.I snarled, baring my teeth, and prepared to face the crocodiles head-on. It was a desperate, last-ditch effort, but it was all I had."We're gonna die!!" the flippant warrior screamed in panic, his eyes completely shot." You have to stay strong!!" I roared bac
Rowan's POV"It's your turn, your majesty," Kael called out loud, and I couldn't help but notice a ting of envy and animosity lying beneath his voice.I shot a quick glance at him, noting with the moonlight how a flicker of smile had spread through his face. But was that the case or was I only seeing seeing things?I breath in real hard, turning to glance at the other two warriors standing with me. The faithful lad who helped tend my cut was ever scared, taking a step backwards and shivering in complete fright."You're the Alpha aren't you? Think of a way out of this mess!! " the flippant warrior chipped, running his eyes over me and taking fearful steps backwards all the same. I knew for sure he felt I couldn't win him in a fair fight with one hand chopped off.But he'd live to see that, or so I hoped."We must be strong, young ones," I managed to say. taking steps again towards the water bank. "If they on the other side could do it, then surely we can!!"I turned around to them, rea
Rowan's POVI could feel the pain coursing through my body, but it was nothing compared to the shock and unbelief that I felt.How could this have happened? I was the Alpha, the strongest and most powerful werewolf in the pack. I was supposed to be invincible, not some maimed and crippled creature.I looked up at my warriors, who were staring at me in shock and horror. I could see the fear in their eyes, the doubt and uncertainty. And in that moment, I knew that everything had changed. I was no longer the invincible Alpha, but a wounded and vulnerable creature."Alpha Rowan!!" three of the young warriors among the rest of the warriors called, taking quick steps forward to me.As they walked up to me, I looked up at the warriors scattered before me, noting with pleasure that most of the old generation of fighters were killed in the just ended battle with mysticshadow pack.I still had a chance to the throne, a chance to control them all and lord over them.With expert hands and a sense
Rowan's POVI had managed to rally my warriors back to my side, and as we trudged through the forest between mysticshadow pack and Redmoon back, my mind and thoughts travelled back to the words and prophesies of the werewolf I held captive."We must get to her... quick," I whispered to no one in particular, but my lead warrior caught the sound of my voice, as he ran towards me with utmost speed and devotion."To who, my lord?" he asked, his unusual aura of loyalty and complete devotion making me to turn to him with a quick glance."The prisoner," I replied dryly, halting at the same time. We had gotten to the river bank that crossed over to the boundaries of Redmoon pack, and noting the darkness of the night, I understood that if we were to cross over the water, then we'd do so with utmost care to avoid being eaten by the crocodiles. The warriors with me halted too, understanding the situation at hand."Warriors, If we must to cross this body of water, then we must do so with our liv
Selena's POVIt was getting all intense, as Karen brought herself so low in Zane's presence."I refuse to believe this!! You're my sister, my flesh and blood," Zane said, placing his hands on the desk adjacent his large bed."On the 22nd of May 1956, Karen was born into the noble family of Ethan, the lead councillor to Alpha Steve,"Karen read, her voice as calm as the summer waters.Zane looked fed up Karen and it caused him to turn around slowly. "What's that? I've had enough of your antics and schemes Karen, won't you give up already?"" Look!! This here contains the emblem of the ancient healer of Cyprus pack, the very last one to prophesy that the Chosen one would come from our continent!!"I watched in awe, noting from where I hid that the emblem looked authentic, a true seal from healers and infirmaries.Zane took the paper from her hands with a rush, peering through it and dilating his eyes in awe."No," he whispered, "this can't be, this just can't be."Karen became sultry aga