KristoffIt had been three days since Anika lost consciousness, and she still hadn't awakened from her slumber. The situation tormented us, especially taking a toll on our mom, Luna Joanna. Though the Ironwolf outwardly remained calm, the worry etched on his face revealed his distressed heart. The nurses and pack doctors were in a state of panic, unable to identify the cause of Anika’s mysterious illness. The pressure was intense, treating a family member of the Ironwolf, knowing that a single mistake could cost them their lives.We gathered inside Anika’s room. Despair filled the air as we watched Anika suffer from the inexplicable ailment. Her high fever caused our mother to cry as she tended to my sister.Suddenly, Anika gasped for air.“What’s happening to my daughter? Do something, please!” My mom begged. The doctors panicked, but before they could attend to her, the Ironwolf unleashed his frustration on them.“I’ll make sure to hang your head if you don't give me a definite answ
AriJust as I said that Luna Joanna stepped outside and heard everything. She wasted no time and approached me right away. Startled, I quickly paid my respects by bowing.“Did my ears hear it correctly? Are you certain about what causes my daughter’s illness? I welcome any possible knowledge and ideas about this mysterious illness.”I nodded. The pressure of treating the Ironwolf's most precious daughter didn't immediately dawn on me. Disregarding the weight of not making any mistakes or failing, I felt the urgent need to help someone in need.“I heard everything from Lord Ulric. The moment I asked him about the condition and let him describe the symptoms of Lady Anika, I was certain I recognized the mysterious illness. Perhaps I could help.”Luna Joanna understood what I was trying to convey. Seraphina, however, took her chance to talk. She quickly intercepted and attempted to discredit me.“My apologies for my rudeness, Luna Joanna. But how can this woman be more knowledgeable than
I, along with Ulric and a few trackers, embarked on our journey to the Canary District. Ironwolf, in his wisdom, handpicked some of his finest warriors to accompany us. The fact that he entrusted us with this mission spoke volumes about the honor and loyalty upheld by the wolves of Iron Flame. Warriors and trackers were ready to sacrifice their lives willingly if needed.I appreciated the skills of the trackers and warriors, crucial for a successful journey. However, Kristoff's inclusion was a different matter. If I had a choice, I wouldn't have allowed him to join. Unfortunately, he insisted, driven by his deep affection for Lady Anika.My concerns about Kristoff causing trouble due to his immaturity lingered. His presence could potentially cause delays rather than aid. Whenever Ulric and I engaged in conversation or shared a moment, Kristoff would steal glances in our direction. His eyes, though attempting to conceal his curiosity, betrayed a sense of jealousy and discomfort.Despit
AriAfter a grueling day and a half, our weary group finally arrived at the borders of the Canary District. The air was thick with anticipation, and the scent of the woods and vegetation surrounded us. In this pivotal moment, I was the only one who knew the way forward. So, I brought everyone together before we moved on. Their faces showed both tiredness and curiosity as I formed a circle with the group.“The Canary District is a dangerous trail, even for someone who knows the place. Most of its terrain is plagued with venomous snakes and other wild beasts. One bite, and you wouldn’t see another day. It would be best for us to stick together until we reach the Forest of Alodia.”Everyone nodded in agreement, showing their trust and confidence as they allowed me to take the lead. I offered words of encouragement as we approached our destination."As we move forward, our aim is to reach the wolf tribe that guards the forest. They're the key to finding the Nightleaf plants we need. This
KristoffMy mission was no walk in the park. Retrieving a plant I knew nothing about rendered me useless, but I couldn't let that discourage me. Not for Anika. I was ready to venture into the unknown, facing lurking dangers rather than sitting idly by. The sight of my struggling sister pierced my heart, and I couldn't back down. For her sake.Physically, the mission wasn't as challenging as my past endeavors. I had tackled more dangerous terrains, survived unforgiving deserts with scarce resources, and engaged in bloody battles against enemy packs and rogues. Reflecting on those completed missions bolstered my confidence, preparing me to confront The Forest of Alodia. The unknown forest posed no significant challenge to me.Now, standing in front of death, facing a fearless tribe threatening us over our origins, I shouldn't have felt intimidated. As the heir of the most powerful pack, a Jarl like myself could take on each one of them alone. I had confidence in my combat abilities and
AriWalking further into the Forest of Alodia, Chief Virjan, and a few people from the tribe accompanied us. My mind was filled with silence as I recalled everything—the time when my father had come here for similar reasons. Some of our warriors had been struck by Nightcrawl, and my father sought his good friend Chief Virjan in the tribe of Canary District to ask for a cure.Chief Virjan and my father, Alpha Eirik, had a strong bond since the day my father aided in defeating a pack attempting to conquer the tribe. The Chief saw this as a lifetime debt toward my father, and in any way possible, Chief Virjan helped the Moonshadow with a cheerful heart. My father entrusted me with a well-guarded secret—the unique knowledge held by the Canary Tribe. Across the vast continent, they were the sole possessors of the ancient wisdom needed to cultivate the rarest of plants, such as the elusive Nightleaf. This invaluable knowledge had been safeguarded and passed down through generations that hel
AriThe Chief of the Canary District led us outside, directing his words solely to me and ignoring the others. After bidding our farewells, we headed back to Ironflame."Remember, Ari. You are always welcome here. My offer will always be present," Chief Virjan reminded me. I nodded, appreciative of his kindness, and hugged him once again. Then, with another round of farewells, we set off back to Ironflame. The journey home began with a sense of happiness, but it didn't take long for a sudden storm to sweep away our joy.Cursing, Kristoff forged ahead despite the heavy rain, determined to continue our journey. However, Ulric intervened, trying to reason with him."Enough, brother. We can no longer continue our journey with this heavy storm. We need to take shelter."Kristoff, stubborn and indifferent, pressed on, ignoring Ulric's advice. This angered Ulric."It is not wise to continue like this. Challenging this storm may damage the plant and compromise our mission. Anika's cure is mor
AriFeeling Kristoff's embrace, his arms tenderly holding me from behind, a conflict raged within me. My initial instinct was to tell him to let go, reminding him of his marriage and commitment to someone else. It felt wrong, and I believed those feelings needed to be disregarded and halted before crossing a line."Enough, Kristoff. You are already married. Someone already owns you. This is not right. Those feelings need to be suppressed and stopped. Before it’s too late," I voiced my words a feeble attempt to rationalize the situation.Kristoff remained silent, continuing to hold me close as he closed his eyes.“Please, Kristoff. They might see us in this state. It would not be good for either of us. Please, let me go.”But Kristoff held me tighter as if he no longer cared about anything. In my mind, the desire to push him away lingered. But my heart betrayed me. Instead of pushing him away, my body seemed to have a mind of its own, surrendering to his loving embrace and succumbing t
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