Ten years had passed. Ten years of Brandon's desperate search for Rachel, but to no avail. He couldn't find her until now. Even Kennedy, or any other alpha who tried to find Rachel, only ended up tasting the same thing as Brandon. Not a single person had seen Rachel's existence in 10 years. Many people said that Rachel might be dead, but Brandon had a hard time believing that. He felt that Rachel was still alive, somewhere he couldn't find her. Brandon has done everything he can to find Rachel, but she's nowhere to be seen. Brandon had even scoured the forbidden territory hundreds of times, his body riddled with wounds and nearly dying, but it was all in vain. "Sweety, where exactly are you?" Brandon lay on the cold side of the bed. The bedroom window was wide open and brought in a soothing breeze. The sky was quite clear, but the mood was the opposite. Brandon looked gloomily at his wedding ring. His hopes were dwindling every day. If it wasn't for Armani, Brandon probably wou
Fall had come again.Brandon could smell the familiar scent of the wind, blowing lightly and brushing his face. A breeze that again reminded Brandon of that woman.It was a sad fall. It was also the fall that always reminded Brandon of all his memories with Rachel. Autumn was Rachel herself.He first met Rachel in this season, and then they got married. Then when they separated, he was reunited with Rachel again in this season.And now...Will there be a miracle this season too? For ten years, it seemed like Brandon couldn't expect anything else."Oh my god. Not again..." Brandon rubbed his face in frustration, feeling annoyed with himself.He had to forget Rachel. He had to forget her.Brandon let out a rough sigh and got up from his spot. His hand closed the closet containing Rachel's clothes with a loud slam. Brandon felt almost crazy for remembering her, even though he had no intention of doing so.Focus Brandon! Focus!"Alpha Brandon, we have everything ready," Victor said in the
"Alpha Brandon, I have brought the reply letter from Pack Leader Canis."In the afternoon after checking the territory, Brandon was greeted by Victor who brought back the reply letter from Pack Canis.Brandon was surprised that the reply came so quickly. He thought the pack with its rumored pack of barbarian werewolves would rebel. It turned out to be the opposite.The leader agreed to accept Brandon's invitation.In the letter, the new pack leader intended to arrive this afternoon. So, Brandon needed to be prepared before their meeting.That woman has a lot of guts, Brandon thought. She was bold and unafraid to meet him head-on. Usually, if Brandon warns some alphas who made a mistake, they take at least a day before meeting him.But the leader of Pack Canis asked to meet today. Brandon certainly did not underestimate her, in fact, he was even more curious about her.An Alpha Female who might be tougher than the Alpha Males in her territory.Brandon's hunch told him that she was no o
The main hall was just shrouded in silence for a few moments.Rachel's confession had shocked everyone in the room. They had thought that Rachel was dead after 10 years had passed without a news. But unexpectedly, she was still alive as the leader of a new pack.The look in Rachel's eyes directed at Brandon conveyed the anger she had been holding back, although the sweet smile was still on her lips.The atmosphere in the room was beginning to feel tense, until Beta Victor broke the silence."Please take a seat, Miss Rachel," he said politely as he gestured to the guest chair that had been prepared earlier. Victor tried to hide his surprise and did what was his duty.Brandon joined him on his throne, his mouth still clamped shut. It felt like not a single word could come out of his lips, he needed a moment to calm down from what had just happened.Brandon's gaze was still fixed on Rachel, watching her every move. Although, she only tucked her hair gently behind her ear.It was still ve
Brandon stared at Rachel for a long time without saying anything.He had not expected Rachel to put their son up as collateral for Brandon's request. Armani was not an item that could be exchanged at will. Why would Rachel think that in the midst of their negotiations? After all, Armani had nothing to do with the matter at hand.It wasn't personal!Brandon wanted a solution and peace of mind for his people as an Alpha in Pack Manowi, but Rachel was taking advantage of that? Even worse, using her own son.Armani is their son. A child who is only 10 years old and knows nothing about political issues.Did Rachel realize what she had just said? Looking at the lopsided smile that formed on the woman's lips, it seemed that Brandon was right. How much has that woman changed? Brandon thought with a frown on his face. What has she been doing for the past 10 years?He didn't expect 30-year-old Rachel to become such a cold person. Where did her heart of tenderness go?Brandon was too shocked to
Silence returned to the room.Again, Brandon felt as if he had been slapped by reality. It hurt so much that he could only remain rigidly silent. All the rebuttal words in his head disappeared instantly.It wasn't the same as the pain of losing a duel or war, but it was much more emotional. He really felt defeated by Rachel's words.How could he defend Armani after this?Brandon looked at Rachel sadly, but she looked at him with a cold expression. The Rachel in front of him was not the Rachel he once knew. She was full of ambition.And the first step to achieving all her ambitions was to take over Armani from Brandon.Brandon wants to ask her why she's only come back after ten years, but he's afraid he'll get an even harder invisible slap. He was afraid that Rachel would ask him about his efforts in finding her.Brandon had tried so hard. He was almost crazy for searching for her non-stop for 10 years, but Rachel wouldn't believe his efforts.Was that what made Rachel seem to hate him
During his life as King Alpha, Brandon never thought that a woman would challenge him. Even more so, that woman was his own Luna.The Luna who reappeared after ten years.Only a few hours had passed and there were so many shocking things that hit him. Brandon couldn't even process everything yet, he thought about his meeting with Rachel all night, while the morning came without him even realizing it.As the sun began to illuminate the courtyard of Pack Manowi's palace, he couldn't help but stiffen at the sight of Rachel standing before him.The woman was no longer wearing a silk gown, but a battle dress made of leather and covered with armor.Rachel looked at him with a closed expression, it was difficult to guess what was going through the woman's head. She just continued to stare at him, her hazel eyes still cold.Brandon was forced to agree to Rachel's invitation to battle, even though he never wanted to. Rachel had him cornered and he had no choice but to refuse. Moreover, this due
Rachel could not answer anything for a long time.Brandon was silent as well, seeing the confusion on her face. Rachel continued to stare at him, but he had no idea what that stare meant.Brandon's chest rumbled waiting for an answer, his hands clenched tightly. Did Rachel intend to refuse his request? Maybe she was fed up with everything Brandon had to say.'Rachel has changed', he thought.The fear was creeping into his heart fast. However, Brandon still hoped there would be a miracle. He hoped that love still remained in Rachel's heart, even though on the other hand, her hatred for him was also evident.The boundary between love and hate is actually so thin. And Brandon hoped that Rachel would prefer the love that was almost drowning between them.Brandon wanted to start all over."Rachel?" called Brandon, starting to feel worried because of Rachel's silence.The woman suddenly picked up her sword and stood up. She stared at Brandon for a few seconds before turning to leave wordles
Rachel carefully stored the butterfly-embroidered veil, yet the strange foreboding that had begun to trouble her mind could not be easily dismissed. Even so, she followed Brandon to witness Armani taking his oath as the new leader of the Manowi Pack.Armani stood tall in the center of the grand hall. With a crown on his head and an aura radiating strength, he raised his hand, drawing everyone's attention."For the honor of the Manowi Pack, I vow to lead with wisdom, protect the family, and maintain peace among all packs. I will uphold truth and justice without fear or favoritism."Armani's voice thundered, filling the entire hall. Applause erupted once more, but outside the palace, a storm began to gather. Fierce winds and heavy rain battered the palace walls, bringing a sense that something ominous was about to unfold.In the palace's underground chambers, Viviane was preparing her final attack. She had not come alone. By leveraging a dark pact she had made with rogue wolves and shad
"With this, I, King Alpha Brandon Matthew, officially hand over my leadership to my son—Armani Matthew, on his 20th birthday!"Applause immediately filled the room. Brandon and Rachel stepped forward with wide smiles, placing the crown and the Pack Manowi emblem ring on Armani’s finger.The coronation celebration was held on the exact day of Armani’s birthday. All the members of Pack Manowi, Pack Canis, and Pack Leinz were invited—not just the Alphas with authority.The festive atmosphere filled the grand hall, which had been lavishly decorated. Golden chandeliers illuminated the room, while exquisite food and drinks were served for the guests.The hall was nearly packed; everyone seemed eager to witness the coronation of the heir to the throne.Armani had grown into a strikingly handsome young man, exuding charisma and authority. His strong leadership aura commanded respect, even from much older Alphas.Although only 20, Armani had already won numerous tournaments and duels, proving
The cold wind carried a mist that blurred the view ahead. The forest Viviane traversed grew denser, with towering hawthorn trees lining her path.The sunlight could no longer penetrate the thick canopy of interwoven branches. Though it was still morning, the place resembled a moonless night.Viviane wiped the sweat from her forehead and glanced at Volkov, who was sleeping soundly in her arms. The distinct scent of trees after the rain had lulled him to sleep. The place was damp and quite chilly, prompting her to find a better spot to rest."Where are we heading, Miss Viviane?" Gonder asked, scanning the unfamiliar surroundings. He and his wife were both weary and hungry, but they had found nothing edible along the way.Viviane sighed tiredly. "We should head west, toward where the sun sets."Gonder and Suzy nodded, having no other suggestion for their destination. Leading the way, Viviane secretly felt unsure of where to go, but she couldn’t afford to show her hesitation.Suddenly, so
"Take them all out. Today, they will be taken to the border." That morning, Brandon immediately gave orders to his Beta. Following his claim and official proclamation, Brandon wanted Viviane and her followers to leave Pack Leinz immediately. Victor nodded obediently and hurried to the dungeon. Brandon then turned to Rachel, who was seated beside him. Her face was furrowed, lost in thought. “Sweety, are you alright?” “Mm, yes.” Rachel snapped out of her thoughts and pulled the corners of her lips into a smile. “I was just... just thinking about Viviane's departure and…” “What is it? Are you worried?” Brandon asked, raising an eyebrow. Rachel fiddled with the ribbon of her gown and nodded. “A little. I’m afraid she might do something after Kennedy’s death. She’s skilled at concocting poisons, and... I’m just scared she might seek revenge,” Rachel admitted, rubbing her neck uneasily. She wasn’t sure why she was suddenly dwelling on it, especially since Viviane was just an ordinary
Rachel and Armani sprinted through the forest, their hearts pounding with both anticipation and joy. Rachel had heard from the Moon Goddess that Brandon had triumphed over Kennedy in their duel. He had taken control of Pack Leinz following Kennedy’s death in their battle. Initially, Rachel was deeply worried, knowing Kennedy and Viviane often resorted to underhanded tactics. But she was also aware that Brandon’s strength was unmatched. “Mom, are we almost there?” Armani asked, matching his mother’s pace as they navigated the dense forest. The pungent smell of moss lingered in the air after a light drizzle had fallen just moments before. “Almost there, sweetheart,” Rachel replied. “Are you tired?” “Not at all!” Armani exclaimed, shaking his head with a determined look that made Rachel chuckle. “I’m the heir to Pack Manowi, strong like my father. There’s no way I’d feel tired.” Rachel let out a soft laugh, gently patting the top of Armani’s head, charmed by his confidence. “In th
Brandon made the announcement in a booming voice, addressing the guards, servants, Beta Gonder, Beta Suzy, Viviane, and her nine-year-old son—Volkov Li. He stood before Kennedy’s throne, with Victor positioned just below the steps. Everyone knelt before Brandon, affirming his claim over Pack Leinz. Viviane and Kennedy’s two Betas were forced to kneel under the pressure of Brandon’s overwhelming power. Viviane clenched her fists, her fury still burning deep within. Her tears had dried, but her heart was shattered beyond repair. She knew her life would change drastically after Kennedy’s death, but now she had one single purpose. She had to avenge Kennedy. She had to kill Brandon mercilessly, just as he had done to her husband. Viviane glanced at her son, who was bowing his head beside her. His face was pale and downcast, his lips sealed tight for hours. He was still deeply shaken by Kennedy’s death and Brandon’s claim over the pack that should have been inherited by Volkov. All he
"Viviane..." Kennedy struggled to speak, his voice barely audible. He coughed violently, more blood pouring from his mouth and staining his chin and neck. Viviane was hysterical, her cries echoing in the tense silence. "No! Don’t say that! Healers! Where are the healers?!" she screamed, tears streaming uncontrollably down her cheeks. "Someone call the healers now! Why are all of you just standing there?!" "No... Viviane... I don’t think... I can hold on... any longer," Kennedy stammered, his voice faltering. His trembling hand lay weakly in Viviane’s grip, his chest rising and falling rapidly. Viviane sobbed harder, her tears falling on Kennedy’s pale face. She clung to him desperately, her world unraveling as her husband teetered on the brink of death. Around them, the crowd remained silent, their expressions grim. No one dared move or utter a word; they all knew there was nothing they could do now. Kennedy's defeat was absolute. Blood continued to pour from Kennedy’s mouth, stai
“What did you just say, you bastard?!” Brandon growled deeply. Kennedy chuckled and pressed his hand against Brandon’s chest, forcing him to remain pitifully pinned down. “Yes, because soon enough, that poison will make you wither away, slowly destroying your organs,” Kennedy whispered. Brandon’s eyes widened in shock at those words. He struggled to free himself from Kennedy’s hold, but his strength had mysteriously vanished. Something was wrong in their duel. The poison. It was the poison that had rendered him this weak. Brandon’s gaze darted to the tip of Kennedy’s spear lying beside him, glistening with a clear liquid. He had been so focused on Kennedy that he had failed to notice the details of the weapon. Brandon cursed himself inwardly for being so careless. How could he forget Kennedy’s cunning nature—and that of his wife? Especially after Rachel’s own experience of being struck by a poisoned arrow. Brandon should have realized it earlier. They would do anything to win.
After calming herself, Viviane followed Kennedy to the front courtyard of the palace. There, Brandon stood fully armored, facing off against Kennedy. A silver sword, famed for its magical properties, hung at his waist. His gaze locked onto Kennedy, who didn’t look away either. The tension in the courtyard of Pack Leinz was palpable, creating an eerie atmosphere. Moments passed in silence, intensifying the suspense. A gentle breeze blew, causing the hairs on everyone’s necks to stand on end. Both Betas and the guards watched each other cautiously. Some of them were breathing shallowly, waiting for these two top-ranked Alphas to break the silence. Finally, Brandon let out a sharp breath and spoke, "I’ve come here to challenge you honorably! A one-on-one duel using the full extent of our Alpha powers. Win or lose, the stakes are Pack Manowi and Pack Leinz." Kennedy narrowed his eyes and smirked. "Are you serious about your offer?" "Of course." Brandon grinned. "I’m not one to make f