Ulric"Lord Ulric, it is time to get ready."I grunted in annoyance as the order reached my ears. I tossed my weapon aside, its metallic clatter echoing my displeasure."Why do we need to attend some stupid parties? We are warriors, not clowns," I complained, shooting a defiant look at Ruther, my armsbearer, who had reminded me of the impending social gathering. He just smirked in response. Reluctantly, I complied, my steps heavy as I made my way out of the training ground in a bad mood.Parties never suited my image. I'd rather stay dirty inside the training ground than associate myself with pretentious people who had nothing in mind but gaining favor from the Ironwolf Pack. And yet, I still found myself attending quite a few events as long as it was the Ironwolf himself who would request my presence. I held immense respect for him, and anything he asked of me, regardless of how much I hated it, I would be happy to do.However, his fascination with extravagant parties grated on my ne
AriIn the midst of Ironflame's packhouse, there was an air of excitement, and the torches flickered with anticipation. Tonight's celebration held great importance for the whole pack, as my father would announce Maddie and my union. The entire packhouse bustled with the hurried movements of servants preparing for the event. However, I found myself sitting alone in my room, seemingly drowning in my own sadness amid the festive atmosphere.My room reflected the inner conflict I was facing. Torn between duty and personal feelings, I grappled with the upcoming celebration that would determine my fate. Thoughts of the woman I loved and the heavy burden I carried for our future consumed me. The room echoed with unspoken concerns, the weight of which hung heavily in the air.The door creaked open, breaking the stillness, as Rolf entered with seriousness."Get ready, Jarl Kristoff. The party is about to start," he announced, his words cutting through the silence. I glanced at him, not moving
AriI woke up to the gentle touch of sunlight on my face, signaling that morning had arrived. The sounds of birds chirping and fellow omegas bustling about filled the air as they prepared for the day ahead. With a sigh, I rose from bed, a heaviness lingering from the tears shed the night before.As I stood before the mirror, I couldn't escape the reflection of my tired eyes, marked by dryness and darkness. The memories of last night's tears flooded back, a consequence of witnessing Kristoff's kiss with my step-sister. I shook my head, attempting to dispel the ache in my heart, and left my room to join the other omegas in the slave quarter's kitchen.However, on my way there, a sudden recollection stopped me in my tracks – my plant. Turning in the opposite direction, I hurried to the secluded spot where I had placed the pot. Surrounded by trees and bushes, the area received just enough sunlight for the plant to thrive. Kneeling beside it, I carefully inspected every leaf, root, and bit
AriA sudden shock rippled through the room, catching everyone off guard, including me. The guy holding my hand was Lord Ulric's arms bearer, Ruther. Trailing behind him was Lord Ulric himself.We were visibly surprised and instinctively bowed our heads in respect for the Ironwolf's son. Ruther let go of Jenna’s hand, leaving her rooted to her spot. We were all wondering what was going to happen next.Jenna courteously bowed her head and addressed him. “Greetings, Lord Ulric.”Lord Ulric approached her, making Jenna feel nervous. The presence of the Ironwolf's son in the omega quarters left all of us wondering. Lord Ulric spoke to Jenna with an authoritative tone, reminiscent of the Ironwolf’s voice but less deep.“What do you think you’re doing?”Jenna calmed herself and explained everything to him.“As you can see, Lord Ulric, we’re in the middle of a punishment. This omega did a terrible thing last night. She abandoned her post in the middle of her duty.”Jenna smirked at me, antic
AriMy chest pounded as I followed Lord Ulric and his armsbearer. I couldn't help but wonder why the Jarl’s brother was suddenly interested in me. The commotion earlier didn't paint him in a good light, and honestly, I wanted nothing to do with him. If I had a say, I'd steer clear of him as much as possible.However, being tied to the Ironwolf's clan meant I had to obey his every command, leaving me with no choice and feeling pretty powerless.As expected, my thoughts were more intense than my actions. Negative ideas about the worst-case scenario started creeping in as I followed the other son of the Ironwolf. The fear of the unknown ate at me, and the uncertainties about Lord Ulric's actions stressed me out big time. If only he hadn't been so harsh with Jenna, I would've been fine just doing my job and following his orders.Lord Ulric and Ruther were deep in conversation about something, and I just tagged along, keeping my head down, my heart still racing. As we strolled, my mind sta
AriShocked, I couldn't find words to respond to Lord Ulric. Our previous encounter had been merely an unexpected coincidence, and I had never been involved with him in the past. It seemed impossible that he could be interested in me after just one meeting. I didn’t want to sound conceited, but why would he want to date me, a mere omega, for such an important event?My looks lacked any charm, with my short hair serving as a testament to my low status. Even if he wasn't concerned with my status, the heavy housework had drastically altered my appearance as a fine lady. I saw myself as an unattractive omega with nothing but housework in my life, and no time to look beautiful, wear makeup, or dress nicely. Thus, Lord Ulric asking me to be his date was a total shock. It took me a while to process it and provide an answer.Meanwhile, Lord Ulric stood up from his desk and took a glass from the drawer. He poured himself a glass of champagne, chugging it like it was just water, showing no expr
AriTurning around, I instantly recognized the voice. It was too familiar; there was no need to see who it was. Seraphina was staring at me with disgust and mockery, launching insults without restraint.“So you do really desire a comfortable life, after all, I see. I can’t blame you.”I despised Seraphina’s words. Understanding her intentions, I decided I wouldn't back down any longer. Fed up with her constant insults and snide remarks, I chose to fight back this time, engaging her in the same game she excelled at.“Come on, Seraphina. I am sure you know how to live like an omega. Who doesn’t want a better life than serving others?”Seraphina clapped her hands in response.“Well done, Ari. At last, you admitted what kind of a woman you really are. I admire your honesty this time. It is only the right choice for you since you lost the chance to be married off to the Jarl. To be honest, I predicted this in my head already. Lord Ulric would be your next target.”I scoffed at how Seraphin
KristoffThe night before my wedding, I found myself in the lavish room, surrounded by all the extravagant wedding preparations. My suit hung on the side, and the luxurious ambiance spoke volumes about the richness of our pack. As the Jarl of the Iron Flame, the most powerful pack in the entire continent, everything I needed was readily available, either inside the room or with personal servants stationed outside, ready to fulfill my every need.Standing by the window, I felt the breeze brushing against my face, and a sense of melancholy enveloped me. My mind drifted back to the Moonshadow pack, recalling a time when the room was simpler, less adorned. No omegas waited outside, attending to my every need. I could breathe freely, expressing my love without the weight of expectations. My suit hung in anticipation, and despite the simplicity, that room held a comfort that surpassed any grandeur.I reminisced about that night in the Moonshadow pack before my wedding with Ari, where the sk
AriThe battle was over, and Sigurd and Seraphina had lost. It’s strange how hunger for power can lead to such downfall. No one expected Sigurd to betray us like this; his loyalty to his brother was always unquestionable. But jealousy is a powerful force. Beta Sigurd chose power over family, and he paid the ultimate price. Now, with his death, peace has returned, though not without the sacrifice of brave souls during the battle.After the civil war, the high council wasted no time in delivering justice. I watched as they sentenced one of the main instigators of chaos among us.“Your treachery and treason are beyond punishable,” one of the council members declared, addressing Seraphina. “In the name of the great Ironflame, and in honor of the late Alpha, the great Ironwolf, I hereby declare your fate.”They readied Seraphina’s sentence, taking into account the child she carried.“You, Seraphina Rosenberg, will be pardoned for 9 months due to the baby you carry. However, until you give
AriThe sky was cloudy, mirroring the melancholic vibe we all shared. With the late Alpha's family, my hands and feet were tied. We faced the crowd of Ironflame, who did nothing but throw us their pitiful stares. I couldn’t blame them for not acting. After all, what could they do to help us against the usurper?We never saw it coming. We never expected that the calm, collected, and timid Beta harbored such extreme resentment for his older brother, enough to kill him and blame his nephew for the crime. It was beyond his character, or perhaps we were just blinded by his pretentious facade. His betrayal was unexpected, and it was the most painful for the Alpha family. Being from the same blood made the deception the most bitter pill to swallow.I turned my gaze to Beta Sigurd. Beside him stood Seraphina, the temptress who might have orchestrated everything. I didn’t know how their alliance started, but one thing was for sure: their alliance was a force to reckon with. I smirked, seeing m
KristoffAfter that escape, Ulric led me to a place not far from the capital. It was a land called Stelar, which used to be a hiding place of rogues in the past. When we arrived, I saw some of the warriors from Skagi. I recognized some of them who had accompanied us when we went to fetch a cure for Anika in the Canary District.They all nodded at us as we approached. Ulric turned to me, urging me to eat first. Then, he thanked each of his men. At that point, there was no denying that my brother inherited our father’s bravery and charisma. Ulric was one capable leader, no doubt. He was every bit of Ironwolf that wasn’t present in me. I also couldn’t help but remember how he had stepped up to protect Ari on multiple occasions. In his presence, I felt useless and insecure.I ate my soup unenthusiastically, lost in my thoughts. Then, I felt Ulric’s hand on my shoulder. He was also carrying a bowl of soup and ate beside me. I couldn’t help but ask.“Why did you save me? If you let me die,
KristoffFinding myself in such a dire situation was beyond anything I could have imagined. Though my feelings toward my father were complex, I never once entertained the thought of taking his life. Despite our differences, I loved and respected the Ironwolf, just as I did the rest of the Ironflame. Now, as I gazed upon his lifeless form, a profound sense of pain gripped my heart. If only I had accepted his apology before his untimely demise—that was my sole regret as I faced this trial of death."TRAITOR!" "MURDERER!" “HOW COULD YOU KILL YOUR OWN FATHER?”These accusations echoed through the crowd, I felt a wave of despair wash over me. This was once a place where cheers for my name resounded, but now it brimmed with rage and condemnation for a crime I did not commit."Kill him now!" the crowd clamored eagerly, their eyes filled with contempt and disgust.But amidst the cacophony of accusations, there were voices of reason and support."Jarl Kristoff could never do that, you fools!
KristoffAfter Ari and Ulric left, the Ironwolf turned to me, his expression softened in a way I hadn't seen before. It unsettled me, so I turned to leave the council room. But he followed, calling after me with a tone I couldn't ignore."My son..."I quickened my pace, hoping to escape his reach, but he caught up, his words chasing after me."Forgive me for everything, my son."I ignored him, my anger simmering as I walked faster. But he persisted, grabbing my arms to halt my retreat."Kristoff! Wait..."Reluctantly, I stopped and turned to face him, my frustration bubbling to the surface."For what reason, Father?! Have you suddenly realized you have a son who needs you? It's too late for that now."I tried to break free from his grip, but he held firm, his voice pleading with sincerity."I'm sorry... It took me too long to understand. I'm sorry for interfering in your love for Ari."His words ignited a fiery rage within me. Without hesitation, I raised my fist, my anger overpowerin
AriMy heart pounded fiercely in my chest as I sat among the esteemed members of the Ironflame council, the weight of their scrutiny bearing down on me like a heavy cloak. Beside me, Ulric's reassuring presence provided a semblance of comfort, his gentle touch and supportive gaze grounding me amidst the tension.With a steady hand, Ulric pressed mine, offering silent encouragement that spoke volumes in its simplicity. Grateful for his unwavering support, I drew strength from his presence, finding solace in the solidarity of our friendship.Suddenly, the Ironwolf's attention shifted to Ulric, his question hanging heavy in the air like a palpable force. "What’s your plan now, Ulric? Everyone knows about your child already."Ulric bowed respectfully, his response measured and deliberate. "Of course, father. It is time to marry Ari and reinstate her status as a high-ranking she-wolf in the Ironflame."The Ironwolf's approval came swiftly, his words a testament to Ulric's worthiness. "Very
KristoffOpening my eyes that morning felt like lifting a heavy burden, each movement carrying the weight of the painful events that had unfolded. I rose from my bed with a sense of resignation, drained of energy and enthusiasm. Every breath I took seemed to sap what little life remained within me, leaving behind only emptiness and pain.A deep breath drew the attention of my spirit wolf, Ivar, who reached out to me with concern. "Are you alright, my friend?"But I couldn't find the words to respond. I was tired, tired of existing in a world filled with nothing but agony and unfulfilled desires. I slipped into a depressive state, the weight of my emotions crushing me under their relentless weight."Perhaps make yourself busy… or learn to have a proper talk with anyone you trust about this… I could be the one you need. You can suppress this emotion while working, Kristoff. It will affect your name," Ivar offered, his words tinged with wisdom and concern."Do I look like I care anymore?
AriAs we journeyed back to Skagi, the weight of the recent events pressed down on us like a suffocating fog. Ulric remained stoic, his gaze fixed on the passing scenery, while Lady Aleria's concern was palpable in the tense silence. I, on the other hand, couldn't quell the restless turmoil within me. My mind raced, haunted by the fear of almost losing my baby, a terror that gripped me tightly.Upon our return to Skagi, the floodgates of my emotions burst open, and I collapsed under the weight of it all. Tears streamed down my face as I choked on sobs, feeling the overwhelming burden of guilt crushing me."Oh, please forgive me for the chaos I have caused you," I managed to utter between sobs, my voice trembling with emotion.Lady Aleria's expression softened as she rushed to comfort me, her arms enveloping me in a warm embrace. She dismissed my self-blame with gentle reassurance, placing the fault squarely on Seraphina's shoulders."None of it is your fault, Ari. Everything happened
KristoffAs the commotion settled, I rushed to the Alpha Mansion, my heart pounding with worry for my mother. Bursting into her room, I found her in tears, hastily packing her bags. Anika, her eyes filled with concern, turned to me as I clenched my fists, anger bubbling up at the sight of her distress.My nostrils flared with frustration, directed both at Seraphina and my father for once betraying my mother. Disappointment welled within me as I watched him approach her, his voice tinged with false concern."Where are you going, Joanna?" His words dripped with insincerity, and my mother shot him a withering glare."Does it matter to you? I think not." Her voice was sharp, filled with the pain of betrayal. Anika hurried to assist her as she continued packing, and I fought back the urge to confront my father.But he persisted, reaching out to touch her, only to be met with her fierce rejection. "Do not touch me, you fool!" Her voice echoed with defiance, and I could feel the tension crac