Archer barged into Malakai’s chambers, forcefully slamming the door behind him. Malakai, seated at his desk with his face buried in his hands, was jolted from his thoughts by the sudden intrusion."You rejected her?!" Archer's voice thundered through the room."Get out, Archer!" Malakai snapped."How could you, Malakai?!" Archer's words spewed a hostile blend of anger and disbelief. "She was utterly devastated! The guards escorted her out as if she were a mere peasant, until I stepped in!”Malakai's fist collided with his desk, his frustration boiling over. "You have no idea what it's like to bear the weight of the burden and responsibility that has been on my shoulders since birth! I had no choice!"With an air of fury, Archer advanced towards Malakai. "You could have fought for her, Malakai! You could have stood your ground! What could they possibly do? Not offer you the job?! They can't deny you the throne, Malakai! It is rightfully yours and yours alone, and you cowered just as th
Amani woke up to a gentle knock at her door and immediately rose from her bed to answer it. Standing outside was a pretty redhead, appearing to be in her mid twenties."Hello," Amani greeted kindly."Hello, my lady. Lord Adam has sent me to invite you to join him for breakfast this morning," the young woman said in a somewhat monotone voice, as if she had been inconvenienced by the task."Oh, yes, of course," Amani replied."Well, if you're ready, I can escort you to the dining room," the woman offered.Amani nodded appreciatively and followed the woman to the dining room, where Adam awaited her. As Amani entered the room, Adam rose from his seat, displaying his gentlemanly manners."Good morning, Amani," he greeted with a polite smile. "Please, join me for breakfast.""Good morning, Adam, and thank you very much," Amani responded, returning his smile.Amani took a seat across from him, and the redhead placed a plate of delectable breakfast foods in front of her."Amani, I couldn't he
Back at the palace, Malakai mechanically went through the motions of his royal duties, his mind a million miles away. The opulent halls and grandeur around him felt hollow and meaningless. His father, growing increasingly impatient with his son's newfound detachment, was unsure how to pull him out of the dark hole he now resided in. It seemed as if Malakai had lost all sense of purpose, his once vibrant spirit now dimmed.Nights became torturous for Malakai, sleep evading him like a fleeting dream. Tossing and turning in his lavish bed, he couldn't escape the haunting memories of Amani's smile, her laughter echoing in his mind like a bittersweet melody. The longing for her presence gnawed at his soul, an ache that refused to subside.In an attempt to burn off his restless energy, Malakai pushed himself and his patrol to their limits, their paws pounding against the earth as they sprinted through the sprawling Kingdom. The wind whipped through his fur, carrying whispers of secrets and
Over the next few days, Adam diligently prepared for a memorial service at his Manor, intending to create a heartfelt tribute to honor the life of his beloved mother. Amani, deeply saddened by the loss, offered her heartfelt condolences to Adam and couldn't help but admire his composure in the face of Bianca's passing. Adam found comfort in the knowledge that his mother had lived a long, fulfilling life and had peacefully drifted away in her sleep. Adam's perspective helped ease the pain in Amani’s own grieving heart, allowing her to maintain a semblance of emotional control. In an effort to keep her mind occupied, she graciously volunteered to assist in preparing food for the service. Despite Adam's insistence that she needn't trouble herself, Amani insisted on doing something, anything, to occupy her mind during this difficult time. Unfortunately, Emily's behavior was beginning to wear on Amani's patience, her passive-aggressive actions becoming increasingly frustrating. Amani fo
Amani was thrilled to receive her invitation to the art gala, where she would have the opportunity to present her work as a contestant. As she read the invitation aloud to Adam, her excitement accentuated every word."The Royal Museum cordially invites Selene Draven to the annual Midsummer Art Gala, where she will compete alongside the finest artists that the Pack Lands has to offer. Please bring two of your most exceptional pieces to be judged by our esteemed committee. The Grand Prize Winner will receive five hundred Lunars, a chance to have your art displayed in the prestigious Blackclaw Museum, and a special prize to be announced on the evening of the event!" Amani's joy was undeniable as she jumped up and hugged Adam.He held her tightly, his embrace lingering a bit longer than usual, but Amani was too elated to think much of it."This is absolutely fantastic, Amani. I am so happy for you. I have no doubt that you will emerge as the winner," Adam declared confidently."Even if I
Malakai followed Amani's scent into the museum, his heart pounding with anticipation. He had casually scanned the list of contestants before leaving the palace, curious if she would be among them. After all, she was the most talented artist he had ever encountered, and he believed that her extraordinary gift would leave the judges utterly astounded.The moment he stepped inside, a wave of surprised guests surged toward him, eager to bask in his presence. Skillfully navigating through the crowd, Malakai focused on following Amani's scent, leading him to the rows of art stations set up by the contestants. Steph caught up to him, perplexed by his behavior and unaware of his intentions. Suddenly, an event coordinator blocked his path, bringing him to an unwelcome halt."Your Highness!" A woman exclaimed, gracefully curtsying before Malakai. "It is the utmost honor to have you grace this year's gala with your esteemed presence. I am Rebecca, and I would be delighted to...""Excuse me," Mal
Amani had to stay in the city for a couple of days while Adam received treatment at a local medical center. It was crucial for him to rest and regain enough strength to shift into his wolf and make a full recovery. Amani allowed Emily to stay by his side, opting to give her some space. Amani decided that it was best for them both, as she was afraid that she might kill Emily for how she had been treating her, not to mention exposing her true identity. Amani found accommodation at a local Inn, where they refused to accept any payment. The townspeople seemed intimidated by Amani now that they knew who she truly was, and were cautious not to do anything that might upset the Prince.Even the following morning, as Amani walked to the market to gather herbs for her medicinal potion, she noticed that nobody would meet her gaze or even offer a smile. Unfazed, she chose not to hide her scars anymore, displaying them proudly for the world to see. After all, the truth had already been revealed.
Meanwhile, Steph decided to pay Emily a visit at the medical center. They took a quiet walk together, finding a secluded spot where they could have a private conversation, shielded from potential eavesdroppers."What can I do for you, my lady?" Emily inquired politely."Oh, I simply wanted to meet the brave slave girl who rushed to her master's side when he needed her," Steph said with fabricated admiration. "When I saw you, I thought to myself, 'She and I are going to be good friends.’”"We are?" Emily looked genuinely puzzled.Steph gently placed her hand on Emily's shoulder, making a conscious effort to conceal any signs of repulsion that she felt. "Absolutely! We have so much in common, you and I.""We do?" Emily responded, still uncertain."Mhm... for example, I can tell that you are deeply in love with your master, and I am equally in love with my Prince," Steph said, her eyes revealing her longing. "Unfortunately, there seems to be one irritating problem standing in the way of