FREYA'S POVThe air in the delegation's camp was thick with tension as I reached forward and angrily dragged the treaty document towards me. My hands were trembling as I pulled out a pen and hovered over the paper with a mixture of rage and humiliation.The whole table was watching me with bated breaths waiting for my next move. It was the last thing I wanted to do but I forced myself to keep my composure.As I finally penned my signature on the document, my gaze shot up and landed on the princess with a glare. Princess Isabelle had won this round, but I was definitely not someone to accept defeat easily.“We’ll return home immediately,” I announced as I dumped the pen and rose up. I faced my envoy and delegates with a steely gaze. “The tribute must be ready by next month to honour my brother Tristan. And I want no mistakes.” Isabelle said.I whipped around towards her, my eyes burning with barely restrained rage. She held my gaze as she leaned back in her chair with a sly smile.I l
ISABELLE’S POV“It went smoothly,” I replied with a smile, as I took my seat beside him.Tristan’s sharp eyes didn’t leave mine. “And the negotiations?”“An absolute success,” Rowan answered smoothly. “The Shallow Land Pack has agreed to all our terms. The tribute will be arriving just next month.”Tristan nodded with satisfaction, but his focus remained on me for some reason. “Good. And what of the General?” he asked suddenly. “Did you keep your distance?”I blinked, caught off guard by the question. I hesitated for a second, shooting a glance at Rowan not sure how to answer the question.Before I could speak, Rowan stepped in. “You have nothing to worry about, Alpha. I’ll personally ensure that General Kael stays away from the princess from now on.”Tristan’s expression softened, though a flicker of doubt remained and then he nodded.I felt a surge of irritation at his questions and Rowan’s quick agreement only added to my frustration. I ate my meal in strained silence, suddenly lo
ISABELLE’S POVMy heart was still pounding as I walked out of his door, I could feel his eyes on me as I walked away.When I finally returned to my villa my wolf’s voice echoed in my mind. ‘Alan might turn out to be another Kael,’ she mused, with scepticism.I sighed, running my fingers through my hair. I let out a low groan, hating the situation I was in right now.‘Alan isn’t like Kael,’ I whispered back, though a part of me wondered how Kael would react if he ever found out the truth about me and our relationship.My wolf chuckled knowingly, but I shook off the thought. ‘I’ll come clean when the time is right,’ I told myself, trying to convince both my wolf and my own heart.It was still too early to tell Kael about the moon goddess curse, I don't know how he would react but I knew it wouldn't be easy.My thoughts were interrupted when I approached my villa and I spotted the tall and peculiar servant I had bumped into earlier walking past the garden.Mara, I remembered the name. S
ISABELLE 'S POVMy maid approached me with a hesitant expression when I was at breakfast the next day. From her expression, it was obvious she figured out something about Mara. “Your Highness, I have news about Mara,” she said, her voice low.I immediately set down my teacup, gesturing for her to follow me back to my room as I rushed up the stairs. Once we were in my chambers and the door was shut behind us, I turned around bursting with anticipation.“While I watched, Mara snuck out and left the villa in the middle of the night,” she reported. “I couldn’t track where she went, but she returned just before dawn.”I raised an eyebrow, my wolf growling faintly in her mind. ‘I told you she's hiding something,’ she whispered with conviction.“I’m not surprised,” I replied calmly, though my thoughts were scrambled as I tried to figure out what was happening. I could expose Mara now, but that would tip my hand way too early and I wouldn't be able to find out the whole truth about her iden
ISABELLE'S POVThe streets suddenly started buzzing with noise and tension as guards in armour rushed past me. I frowned at the sudden change but Alan was already packed and waiting for me. I made to follow him when a familiar voice cut through the chaos.“Princess? What are you doing here?”I turned to see Officer Ryker, my former law teacher and the pack officer standing just a few feet away from me. His tall frame and stern demeanour were a huge contrast to the sudden panic and chaos on the streets.“I was just helping a friend,” I replied, keeping my tone casual. “What’s going on?”“We’re searching for a spy,” he explained, his sharp eyes scanning the crowd around us as he spoke. “It’s not safe for you to be out here,” he said sternly.Without waiting for my response, Ryker gestured for the armoured guards to continue the search and suddenly took my arm in his. “I’ll escort you back home.”Though I wanted to refuse, I knew I couldn't argue with Ryker, his expression was already
ISABELLE’S POV“Where?” I asked, my voice steady despite the panic bubbling inside me as I gripped the steering tight.“A motel. Outskirts of town. And don't ask any questions,” he snapped, leaning back in the seat, the dagger still resting on his lap, a silent reminder if I wanted to act smart.The drive was tense and silent, with my mind racing to assess my situation. The man's face was not familiar, and was not one I could easily place in the pack. Yet as I watched him from the corner of his eyes I noticed he bore a resemblance to the black-haired woman spy Ryker described earlier during his search.He was definitely the spy Ryker and the soldiers were searching for, and he was somehow manipulating his appearance. My wolf growled again, warning me to be very careful with this strange man.The drive was short and we soon arrived at the motel, the man leaned in close, palming his dagger, his voice soft but filled with authority and threats. “Check-in. Use a fake name. Smile like yo
ISABELLE’S POVMy heart was pounding loudly like a drum in my chest, and a jolt of adrenaline coursed through my veins as the man loomed over me, his golden eyes blazing with a dangerous glint. I stared at him as the air between us charged with tension, our breaths mingling from how close we were as he leaned into me. We were so close I only had to lean in an inch for his lips to touch mine.My wolf reassured me in a low growl. ‘He’s not our mate,’ she warned. ‘But he’s dangerous. Be smart, Isabelle.’His grip tightened on my wrist, his strength almost unbearable against my already delicate red and raw skin. Panic surged within me, but I was no fragile princess. With every ounce of courage, I acted on my instinct without thinking of hesitating—lunging forward as fast as I could, I leaned into him and bit down hard on the side of his neck. My teeth sunk in until I could taste his blood on my tongue.He hissed in pain and immediately released me, his hands holding his shoulder. “You l
ISABELLE’S POVAxel remained tied to the bed, his golden eyes filled with defiance as he stared at me. I couldn’t help but admire his composure. He had nerves of steel, not even shaking or threatened by my position of power over him, and I leaned back unto the rickety table, twirling the dagger in my hand.“You know,” I began, straightening and walking towards him slowly, my tone light but with a dangerous edge, “for someone who’s in such a position, you are remarkably calm. I wonder… would you rather die a traitor or live as my loyal servant?”Axel’s brows furrowed, his jaw clenching tighter. It was very clear he hated the idea but I wanted to keep aggravating him to keep him talking so I could get any kind of information.“I’m being very nice and offering you a way out of this mess you got yourself in” I continued, my voice dripping with mock innocence. “Swear your loyalty to me, and I might just plead on your behalf when the soldiers arrive to take you away.” I smiled sweetly, tho
ISABELLE’S POVThe morning light streamed through the tall windows of my chambers, as I stirred in the silk sheets. The heat from last night still lingered in the air. I turned with exhaustion, my movement sending tiny shocks through her muscles and my mind playing a reminder of Kael’s hands on my body, his lips tracing wet kisses along my skin.A gentle knock on the door pulled me away from the memories as I quickly sat up, pulling the sheets closer to my body.“My Lady,” my maid's soft voice called through the door.One of my maids stepped inside, a basin of warm water in her hands. Her cheeks flushed red with heat as her gaze landed on the scattered bed and my naked body was barely covered by the sheets.“What do you want?” I murmured, stretching my hands over my head lazily.She quickly averted her gaze, setting the basin down on a nearby table. “General Kael tended to you this morning,” she said. “He cleaned your wounds and ensured you were comfortable before leaving.”My lips
KAEL’S POVI could feel the light of dawn seeping through the curtains, casting a golden glow across the princess's chambers. I stirred awake, my body still warm from the lingering heat of the Isabelle sprawled beside me.I looked down at Isabelle, lying asleep against me, her dark lashes resting against her cheeks, and her breathing slow and even. Something tightened in my chest from the sight of her, so calm and vulnerable in her sleep.For a moment, I just watched her, memorizing every detail and feature of her face. The way her lips were slightly parted, the gentle rise and fall of her chest, the faint bruises along her collarbone. I reached out without thinking, my fingers trailing over her skin, before pulling back. I carefully pulled the blanket up, making sure she was well covered.I wanted to stay. But I couldn't.I quietly slipped out of bed, slowly shrugged my clothes back on and cast one last glance at Isabelle before I left.Once I was fully dressed, I slipped through th
ISABELLE’S POVThe warm steam hung in the air, wrapping me in heat as I leaned against the edge of the bath. Kael stood across from me, his body stiff and his shoulders tense as if he wanted to run away at any moment. I smirked at his obvious discomfort, finding his hesitation cute."You look like you're preparing for battle, General." I teased, lazily running my fingers across the water.Kael let out a sharp breath. "I don't think we should be doing this, princess." He whispered I raised an eyebrow, my eyes shining with amusement. "And yet, here you are."He hesitated for a moment then he shook his head with a defeated chuckle. "You’re relentless.""I would prefer you use the term determined."He laughed his chest rumbling with the low sound and I used the moment to move closer to him, As I closed the distance between us, Kael tensed slightly but still, he didn't pull away. I suddenly turned around, slowly prying the straps of my dress over my shoulder.He let out a gasp, but coul
ISABELLE’S POVThe air between us was heavy with tension as I stood over Axel with a sly smile. “You need to start talking right now,” I muttered.He looked up at me, his body shaking with rage. I could see he desperately wanted to hurt me, raising his hands towards me with force but the chains held him back.His face was pale from blood loss, but his eyes were locked on mine, flashing with warning and danger.“You think you can endure this, don’t you?” I murmured, “you really think I would let you die so easily and escape your punishment for your crimes?”“There's nothing you can do to make you tell you anything.” He snarled.I chuckled, a low sound that echoed through the room. “You are telling me everything you know.” I was warned.He smirked, but I could see his eyes falter when I pulled out the same poisoned arrow he fired and tried to use to assassinate me.The tip was still stained with Rowan's blood and I didn't bother to clean it. I want him to suffer his same crimes.I trail
ISABELLE'S POV I leaned in, as I heard Rowan’s weak voice calling my name, my brow furrowed, not sure if I had heard him. His mouth moved again, forming my name faintly on his lips, and for a moment, my heart fluttered in my chest.I stared at him, his dark hair falling over his face and his eyes still shut tight. And for a second, I let my heart wander, my heart fluttering. But I couldn’t let my mind go far, so I quickly pushed the thought aside. ‘Don’t be ridiculous, Isabelle. He’s delirious from the fever.’ My wolf murmured.Rowan’s breathing became steady as he slipped back into unconsciousness, but I remained at his bedside for a moment longer, my expression calm. I let out a deep breath, brushing off the strange emotions stirring inside my chest. The sound of footsteps broke the silence in the room. I turned around to see Kael entering the room, his eyes looked tired but he walked in with his usual confidence.“You’ve been by his bedside the whole time,” Kael teased, his lip
MARCELLO’S POVI stayed hidden in the shadows, my eyes sharp as I watched the chaos near the city gate. The guards all stood around the princess, their weapons drawn and ready to attack.From this distance, I couldn't hear what they were saying but it was obvious what was happening. Axel’s desperate suicide attempt had been stopped, his dagger pushed out of his hands by General Kael. The guards moved swiftly, holding Axel to the ground, and the sound of his bones breaking under their force made me in pain.I watched Axel writhe in pain, his body lying lifeless on the ground.For a moment, I pushed forward to save Axel and get him out of this mess. Even though I didn't agree with his plan to kill the princess, he was still a valuable ally in our mission in the Knightfall pack. But I paused in my steps, I knew it would be almost impossible to get him out. Kael and their soldiers surrounded Axel, leaving no room for escape. To act now would be very foolish, and I wasn't ready to throw
AXEL’S POVThe tension in my chest tightened as I crouched watching over the city gate. I narrowed my eyes as I watched General Kael as he approached the princess’s carriage. Even from this distance, I could see the way Kael’s shoulders relaxed in the princess's presence.My face settled into a deep scowl as the general that conquered the Shallow Land pack army shuddered as the princess took his hand.From the angle, I could see his expression melt when she took a step closer. The fearless warrior who had led NightFall forces to crush mine, wrapped around her finger. How could a man who was so strong and decisive bow so easily to the spoilt and proud princess?My gaze darkened as I returned my focus to the princess. She held Kael's hands to her lips and kissed them.My breath hitched as she pulled her hair away from her face and I could finally see her side profile. I didn't notice it at first, but now I am certain. Her straight posture, the way she carried herself— she acted just li
AXEL'S POVI crouched low on the rooftop, the cold stone pressing painfully against my knees. The cool morning wind bit into my skin, but I stayed frozen in position.Chills crawled into my skin but I shook my head. I can't leave this position after I have been waiting for her for so long.From this distance, I could see the city gate and the road leading out of the pack's borders. I adjusted my position, making sure my bow and poisoned arrow were steady.Through one eye, I spotted the princess's carriage, the woman I spent days tracking finally in front of me. She slowly stepped out, and stood near her car, speaking to a man. Even though I couldn't see her face from this angle, it was obvious who she was from the extravagant dress and the maids standing all around her.Her golden hair flowed down her back, covering the side of her face. I adjusted again till the tip of my arrow was aligned perfectly with her form.“This is it,” I muttered under my breath, my heart racing as I shook
AXEL'S POVI rushed through the club still pulsing with anger. Marcello was on my heels following me around.“Axel, you need to drop your plan for revenge, you can't kill the princess.” He ordered.I clenched my jaw, facing away from him. “Okay!” I spat out. I could see him falter at my admittance, narrowing his eyes. “I just need to get my bow and arrow.” I continued.He watched as I took the weapon and left the room. The cold night air bit at my face as I burst out of the club's back door.The princess was not going to get away with this so easily, no matter what Marcello said I was going ahead with my plan.I stood concealed among the trees near the princess's villa. I adjusted the hood of my cloak, settling down and adjusting my weapon.Marcello’s refusal to kill the princess only made me more angry, but I wasn’t one to give up easily. I didn't need any help, I can do this all by my side.My hand tightened around the quiver slung over my back, my mind was entirely focused on my mi