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
AriAs we wentback to Skagi, each step felt heavy with uncertainty, like carrying a heavy burden. The weight of our mission seemed to press down on us, making it difficult to stay hopeful.The ground beneath our feet was rough and uneven, much like the chaos of thoughts swirling in my head. Ulric's troubled expression mirrored my own worries, and I could see the tension in his shoulders as he walked beside me. Seeking to offer him comfort, I reached out and gently placed a hand on his shoulder."Ulric," I said softly, breaking the heavy silence, "we can't let despair take over. We need to keep going, for Jaxon's sake."He turned to look at me, uncertainty evident in his eyes. "But you heard what Ari said. She doesn’t want to cooperate. What if Jaxon–""We can't keep dwelling on 'what ifs,' Ulric," I interjected, my voice filled with determination. "We must remain strong. We owe it to Jaxon and ourselves."Despite everything, thoughts of Kristoff lingered, giving me hope. What if Maddi
AriAs I stood on the threshold of a new chapter in my life, excitement surged within me. It was time for me to carve my own path, to take control of my destiny. The future lay ahead, uncertain yet promising."I am done living a life not meant for me," I declared firmly. For too long, I had been confined by my mother's expectations, but now I was determined to break free and forge my own way forward."Just wait, my love," I whispered, thinking of Jaxon, the light in my life. With him beside me, I felt strong and ready to overcome any obstacles. His love showed me endless possibilities.Meeting Jaxon changed everything. His love gave me the courage and strength to face challenges that I ignored my whole life. Funny that I’ve known him only for a week but he already did a lot for me. He became my anchor, guiding me through difficult times and bringing peace to my nights. With him, I found the courage to embrace a brighter future, allowing me to assert myself and carve my own path with n
I stepped out onto the balcony, cradling a warm cup of tea in my hands. Skagi spread out before me, vast and serene, yet my mind was anything but calm. Thoughts swirled, memories of recent events flooding my consciousness. I took a deep breath, trying to calm the storm within.Ulric’s words echoed in my mind—recovery first. I knew he was right, but it was hard to rest when my thoughts were in turmoil. The sudden shift in my life’s course still felt unreal, like a hazy dream I couldn’t quite grasp. I set down my tea, my fingers lingering on the warm ceramic as I closed my eyes, seeking solace.“Are you really there, my child?” I whispered, my hand instinctively resting on my belly. Silence surrounded me, but I strained my senses, longing for a sign. And then, there it was—the faint, rhythmic beat of a tiny heart."My child!" The words burst from me, tears streaming down my cheeks unchecked. Joy and disbelief flooded my being, mingled with gratitude for this unexpected blessing."I neve
Seraphina I closed the door behind me, my chest heaving with every breath as I held my head in my hands. I couldn't believe the way Maddie had behaved, right in front of me. She used to cower at the mere sight of me, trembling with fear from just one glare. But now, she seemed like a completely different she-wolf. Her defiance and her threat to me, her own mother, was unfathomable. "HOW DARE YOU, MADDIE! I AM YOUR MOTHER! HOW COULD YOU ABANDON ME LIKE THIS!" My voice echoed through the room, laced with a mix of disbelief and fury. I felt the rage bubbling within me, threatening to spill over. My eyes flickered, their color shifting as the primal instincts of my wolf surged forward. I fought to contain it, to keep myself from fully shifting. Instead, I directed my anger toward the nearest object, to which I saw a small desk in the corner of the room. With a wild scream, I threw myself at the desk, pounding it with all my might. Papers flew around as I swept everything off its surfa
SeraphinaA smirk spread across my lips, a mix of amusement and superiority. "You're lucky I easily forgive, Maddie. I'll spare you with some punishments." With a deep sigh, I let a smile play on my lips."Why did Mama need her useless baby if she could handle everything on her own?!" The question sparked a revelation within me, igniting a bright plan that had previously eluded my thoughts. "Oh, how naive I was to not notice."I shouted at the top of my lungs, summoning my personal servants. The omegas swiftly arrived, heads bowed in fear, awaiting my wrath or the possibility of punishment. Amidst their trepidation, one of the omegas dared to speak, her words stuttered with fear. "La-lady Seraphina… D-do you ne-need any-th-thing?"Approaching the brave omega, she bowed her head even more. But suddenly, I smiled and gently tapped her shoulders. "Relax, young lady. I just wanted to ask for something. No need to be afraid."I also approached the other omegas. They were shaking and couldn
KristoffAs I made my way to the council room, my heart pounded with unease and nerves. I could feel it beating in an irregular rhythm, a troubling sign of the uncertainty that lay ahead. I talked to my wolf looking for assurance. “Ivar, do you think Maddie will—”"It's worth a try, Kristoff," he interjected. "Let’s wait for Maddie to honor her words."Steeling myself, I finally reached the entrance of the room. With a deep breath, I entered, greeted by the assembled council members rising to show their respect."Greetings, Jarl," they chorused. I nodded at them in agreement. As soon as I entered, my eyes scanned to check on my wife. But Maddie was noticeably absent, and my worry deepened. I couldn’t help but voice out my concern to the council members."Where's my wife?"A council member offered a response, “Lady Maddie is still not here. Perhaps something came up and she wouldn’t make it.”The youngest wolf from the council members raised his hand.“May I suggest that we start the
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