---- VALERIA Specters? Why havent you reported this to the Guardians so they can investigate? Aldric interrogated him coldly.


    T?s just...


    its just that there havent been any sightings in years.


    But in our pack, theres a storythose who venture into this ce are cursed, marked by specters to dieter.


    Thats what happened to a couple, good people, members of our pack.


    He spoke with his head bowed, sounding sorrowful.


    I had a strong feeling he was talking about my parents.


    They found an abandoned baby in this forest, at the Altar, they said.


    Can you imagine? What baby could have survived here? We warned them repeatedly not to bring it to the pack, that the child was strange, but they didnt listen.


    A few yearster, they were torn apart by a specter, and only that abomination survived.


    clenched my fists at his words, wanting tosh out and defend myself, but Aldric beat me to it.


    So, you would have left a baby to die in the forest out of fear? Aldric interrupted, his voice nearly a growl, hismanding aura burning with anger.


    The man trembled even more.


    No, not me! Im just warning you about the monsters, I...


    Just shut up and get the hell out of here! Honestly, whos the real monster here? Dont show your face in front of me again while Im in this damn pack! Aldric roared, and the man ran off.


    Awarm, strong hand gripped mine, pulling me along the stone path deeper into the forest, with Celine and Quinn following silently behind.


    That baby was you, wasnt it? he asked suddenly, catching me off guard.


    Yes, it was me.


    You''re no abomination.


    Youre my beloved mate.


    Im grateful to your kind-hearted parents for saving my chance at happiness.


    As we walked, he leaned down to kiss the top of my head, giving mea small glimmer of hope.


    But then...


    Some cursed she-wolf must have abandoned you here in this forest.


    How can they me an innocent child for a specter attack? Brain-dead idiots.


    Dont worry.


    Once we''re done with these altars, we''ll find a way to break your curse.


    Ive already got someone tracking down one of those rogue witches.


    I sighed without responding.


    Aldric, Im not afraid of specters.


    Theyre the ones who should fear me.