UlricI wrapped Aster in a huge hug. "Congratulations, brother. How are you feeling about your new post?" I noticed the nervous smile on his face. "I'm excited, but there's a touch of nervousness. I'm not sure if I'm worthy enough to lead."Giving his shoulders a firm tap, I enveloped him in my arms. "Listen here, brother. What's running inside your veins isn't ordinary wolf blood. Your blood is more than worthy to lead for you are the son of the great Ironwolf. Heads up, little guy. You are destined for a great destiny."Aster became a little confident to start his first official job in the pack. He was given a post on the borders of the northern territory. Meanwhile, I was beaming with pride for my little brother. But amidst the joy, our mother couldn't hold back her tears and broke down."Mother?" I approached her gently."I'm sorry, Ulric. I just couldn't believe how time flies. My little boy is no longer a baby," she sobbed.Aster went to hug our mother, reassuring her, "I'm go
AriI was working late, buried in an important report, seeking solace downstairs. Nestled in a chair by the main door, I delved into the text, trying to focus despite the late hour. Suddenly, the door swung open, revealing Ulric's distraught face."Oh, it’s late. Where have you been, Ulric?" I inquired, my concern evident.Ulric barely acknowledged me, his gaze distant as he passed by. Confusion clouded my thoughts as I watched him go, pondering his unusual behavior. Concern gnawed at me, wondering what could be troubling him.Returning to my desk, I found myself unable to shake off the distraction. My mind wandered as I attempted to work. What's wrong with him? I asked myself. The next day arrived, bringing with it another critical meeting at Skagi. Among the attendees, I sat, my attention occasionally drifting towards Ulric, who seemed lost in his own thoughts. Lady Aleria led the discussion, her authoritative presence commanding the room.“Glad each one has some great ideas to sh
MaddieInside my room, I stood facing the giant wooden mirror in front of me, surrounded by the omegas who swarmed around, always ready to provide humble service. They looked terrified, some shaking, others just bowing their heads and staring at the floor. Not a single word escaped their lips. The atmosphere felt heavy and serious, casting an awkward and strange feeling, as if I were alone in the room.“What’s wrong with your faces? Why do you all seem down in such beautiful weather? Your feelings don't match how good the day was.”The omegas timidly raised their chins slightly, their eyes wide with fear as they exchanged meaningful glances. I could sense their trembling beneath their composed facades.“Is there any problem?” I asked gently.Their response came together, their voices quivering with trepidation, “No, Lady Maddie. We all agree with you. Forgive us for spoiling your mood with our down spirits.”I smiled and replied, "I'll forgive you for today. But next time, it won't be
MaddieAs I made my way to where we were supposed to meet, my feelings were all mixed up. I was excited to see Jaxon again but my spirit wolf was pushing me with urgency. Time was running out, and Jaxon needed help. However, at that moment, all I wanted was to feel his comforting embrace and ease the turmoil in my mind.Finally arriving at the end of the trail, I saw Jaxon standing by the riverside. His face lit up with joy as he spotted me. Seeing his happiness mirrored my own, and my heart swelled with joy.“MADDIE!!!”Jaxon’s voice rang out as he dashed towards me, enveloping me in a tight hug.“Hello, my love,” I murmured, feeling my worries melt away in the warmth of his embrace.With a smile, Jaxon cupped my face in his hands and whispered, “I got something for you.”Curious, I followed his gaze as he led me to the riverside, where he picked up a bouquet tied together with dried grass.“In my culture, each flower holds a meaning,” he explained, pointing to the vibrant yellow blo
KristoffAfter the incident, I kept myself busy, drowning my thoughts in work and tasks to avoid the embarrassment my wife had caused me. It was unbearable, the thought of facing my own family, especially Ari. I couldn't bring myself to do it properly.I looked out of my window and saw the sun setting high already. The heat was suffocating. I rose from my seat and made my way to the balcony. The hot wind brushed against my face as I heaved a deep sigh.“That woman...”I was seething with anger toward my own wife. If only I could act on my impulses and inner thoughts, I would surely teach Maddie a lesson in a way that would satisfy me and strip her of her high rank.“Oh, how I wish I could make these impossible fantasies a reality.”I grit my teeth, feeling the frustration boil inside me. I knew I couldn't act on these impulses towards Maddie and her conniving mother. If I were to confront them directly, they'd find a way to use Ari against me, twisting the truth to their advantage. Ju
AriAs Ulric and I prepared to leave Skagi for the capital, urgency gripped us. We both wanted to meet Maddie as soon as possible. Time was of the essence for our mission to save Jaxon.“Let’s go, Ari. There’s no time to waste. I’ll handle the sudden meeting with the Jarl’s wife. I’m Kristoff’s brother, so meeting Maddie will not be suspicious and can be seen as normal,” Ulric urged.I agreed, and we rushed out of the door. But to our surprise, Jaxon was about to enter.“Oh guys, how have you been?” Jaxon asked, eyeing our belongings with curiosity. “Are you going somewhere, Ulric? Why didn't you inform me?”Ulric was caught off guard by Jaxon’s sudden visit. “There’s no place to go aside from the capital.”“Really? What’s the reason behind the visit?” Jaxon inquired.Ulric didn’t know what to say, and heaved a sigh, smiling awkwardly. Luckily, I was quick to think.“To the omega quarters of the Alpha mansion, Delta Jaxon,” I interjected.I never uttered a word about my people from th
Ari"Maddie!" I called out again, hoping to catch her attention.This time, when Maddie turned around, her expression shifted from fear to concern, then quickly transformed into disappointment and disgust as her eyes met mine."Oh, look who’s here… What the hell are you doing here?" she spat out, her words laced with venom.I remembered the purpose of our surprise visit, but facing Maddie, whom I had always despised, left me at a loss for words. Maddie seized the opportunity to belittle me, her irritation evident from the moment I spoke her name. I understood her frustration immediately; she had almost been caught sneaking off to see Jaxon. So, I allowed her to vent her emotions."I always knew it. Kristoff would never be this crazy for you without seeing you. I am certain you both secretly see each other. And the sole reason why you are here," she accused, her tone dripping with disdain."That’s not true, Maddie," I protested, feeling the need to defend myself against her assumptions
Kristoff Maddie's words lingered as I stepped into my office, the door closing with a heavy thud. The room felt oppressive, like it was closing in on me.Carefully, I moved across the floor to my desk and opened a drawer, greeted by the familiar smell of old wood and paper. Inside, I found a crystal decanter, its contents shining in the dim light. Everything seemed fuzzy, and I couldn't shake the feeling of confusion and worry. The alcohol seemed inviting to calm my nerves.As I poured a drink, the liquid made a soft sound in the glass, and I tried to push away the thoughts swirling in my head. But Maddie's words kept echoing, making it hard to focus.As I took a sip, memories of our conversation came flooding back.“Let’s get a divorce.”The words echoed in my mind, making me wary instead of hurt. I still remembered how her voice had cut through the air like a razor, slicing through the silence of the room. Maddie's determination was clear, but I couldn't shake the feeling that ther
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