《Bought by the ruthless lycan king (Ruby and Killian)》 Chapter 1 Ruby''s POV: "Mydy, please My fingers clenched around the cold parapet of the balcony. I couldn''t bring myself to move or summon the will to retreat to the warmth of my room. It''s been less than thirteen hours since my daughter was found dead, her mouth bleeding in her room. The loss had shredded half of my soul, and I didn''t know whether crying or raging was the right way to respond to this tragedy. None of it makes sense. How could it, when I know my daughter was perfectly healthy, yet the autopsy report ims she died of a pulmonary cmbolian My lips quiver as a sardonicugh escapes. That cursed disease urs when a blood clot breaks off and gets stuck in the lung''s blood vessels. Alicia was only four years old. She''s my little angel who was born healthy. She never could have had that cursed disease. Ima paranoid mother-I always check my daughter''s health regrly. But Alicia''s father was too busy to care fors daughter. Mydy, please,e inside. It''s past midnight, Martha implored again. to theke, hoping that the depth of the water would consume me, along with the pain gnawing at my heart. 1 still ignored her. My gaze "I apologize if I''m being presumptuous," the servant''s voice was tinged with more than just worry. "Ipletely understand the pain you feel, mydy. I was once the one who cared for the little princess with your authorization. Like you, I am certain the little princess was perfectly healthy until this day" Tears welled up when I heard the words "little princess." Alicia abrays had a sweet slight blush whenever Martha, my personal servant, called her that "I''ll always stand by your side, my Luna," Martha assured me "If you want to seek justice for the unnatural death of the little princess, you must first have the strength and rity of mind." "I can''t." I finally whispered, my voice breaking. "I can''t, Martha..." "Please, mydy. You must rest "HOW CAN I REST WHEN MY DAUGHTER IS LEAVING ME FOREVER!?" 1 beat the parapet wall until my skin tore. The smell of fresh blood wafted through the air. TOREVER, MARTHAI FOREVER! "Mydy, 11 "Every time I close my eyes, all I see is blood 1 shouted desperately. No longer beating the parapet, I grabbed my hair, roaring in agony as if I were being stabbed by a thousand daggers It wasn''t supposed to be like this, Martha. No...!" I cried out bysterically, my body slumping down onto the floor. Thardly noticed when both of her arms wrapped around me. "1-1 left her that morning with the nanny as usual before I went to the orphanage," "the was still cheerful and healthy. And then, in the afternoon, when I returned... I found her in her room. A-and... she... she... My tears broke free and were muilled by Martha''s sympathetic embrace. I could feel Manha trembling and crying with me. "Oh, my poor child... my little angel," I sobbed, Saiffling, Martha whispered, "I understand, mydy. I''m always with you just let it go." Martha''sst words finally made me surrenderpletely. I let myself be hugged and cradled with an affection that even my mother would be ashamed to see. Someone not rted by blood cared more than any family member ever had. 1 gripped the older woman tightly, burying my face in her shoulder. My whole body trembled as I poured out everything I was feeling. Martha simply worked in silence. Her hand continued to gently stroke my hair, her soft,forting murmurs almost drowned out by my sobbing "I can''t, Martha...................." Imented. "L. I don''t know how I''ll live without my daughter" I don''t have a definitive answer for you, mydy. But one thing is certain you are her mother" Kantha lugged me tighter. Whether or not she is physically present in this world, she is always yours. She lives in your heart, forever" I have no idea how long we stayed like that, but evennally, my sobs subsided. Exhaustion crept in, determined to pulline to the ridge of inconsciessurss, What prevented it was a gentle pat on my arm, urging me to go inside. Hobbling, I nced down at my left hand, now and bandaged When did Martha do this! I hadn''t even noticed. She bowed. Please reach out to me if you need anything. Rest well, mydy." treated I nodded weakly, unable to find the words to thank her. Martha had gone, leaving me alone in the room behind closed doors. I too cold I shouldn''t be the only one devastated by the loss of a child at a time like this, I wasn''t expecting the worst, but where my hunshanel now! Was he still resentful that our first child wasn''t a boy? "What about our love?" I murmured into the emptiness Turning around. I saw my reflection in therge mirror. I used to take pride in my clear blue eyes that could fool everyone about my feelings. But today, all that remains is the haunting blue amid a storm. My face is slightly swollen from nonstop crying, my blonde hair tangled, and my lips dry and cracked. Then I look at the neckline of my sagging nightgown, exposing my corbone. I just noticed how much weight I''ve lost over thest few seasons Minute after minute goes by. I''m still standing in front of the mirror, repeating. Tin fine," in a ridiculous manner. My unbandaged hand is clenched tightly, and the reflection of my distressed expression stares back at me. No, I''m not okay, I''m angry, I''m sick, I''m suffering in ways I can no longer describe in words, Biting my lip, my shoulders start trembling again. I need Dominic, my Alpha. Just one hug, at least is that really too much to ask? Can''t the pack go one day without the Alpha having to step forward to lead? After all, the vampires of the Sanguine Coven agreed to retreat from the territorial confici. My inner wolf, Leia. howled sadly: "Alpha left early at our Alicia''s funeral. Luna" I closed my eyes in anguish. I tried to ignore that fact, but I couldn''t. "Ruby, this is hurting me too. I need Alpha; I need us to be close. Please. Leia begged. I let out out a shaky breath. "Okay" I usually refused, using the excuse that Dominic was busy-because he was, in fact, more often than not. I didn''t want our strained rtionship to worsen by making Domine sen me as an overly pushy woman (again). The Winterdawn Pack is one of thergest and most respected packs in the North of Scond. As Alpha, Dominic Foster bears an overwhelming responsibility ever since my father handed over his position to him. Sometimes, this made me feel pushed aside. What kept those negative feelings at bay was my duty as Luna and pack strategist, though often felt my efforts were futile. After tidying up my appearance, I left the room to find out where the Alpha bas. The hallway of the manor was nearly engulfed in darkness, saved only by a few wall lights. I didn''t see anyone around, making it difficult to determine Dominic''s whereabouts. I let my footsteps follow my instincts, and relief washed over me as I noticed the lights in the Alpha''s Den shining brightly. Perhaps Dominic was there, But as I approached the heavy wooden door, a soft, feminine cry caught my car, oh my God. yes! My whole body suffened, and my breath cauglu in my throat. "Nghh, please" A chill ran down my spine. I pulled my hand back from the doorknob. Trembling, Leaned closer to the door, straining to listen. The sound came again, louder this time-a pronounced masculine moan. It was soon followed by another sound-a soft, passionate moan that sent waves of horror crashing through me. Please, please,rder...! Ouhh, yes, right there!" The sounds from the Alpha''s den grew more frantic, more desperate. The rhythmic p of skin against skin echoed through the heavy door. "Fuck! Look at you, baby... so tight and hot for me. M-mm, haa! That oh shit!" "Yes, sweetheart. You like this, don''t you? Wanted to show you how my knot binds you, him?" "D-Dominic the other voice whined, "Please, I need your knot now!TM Chapter A widely Calope Lavandingy munch sizeerring backward with tears streaming down my face at the mention of those two names. NC Newag! Domine, Callmpe... My husband with my own sister Chapter 2 Ruby''s POV) H... TO WING The intive voice of my inner wolf, Leia, echoed in my head. She saw and felt everything I was going through as those despicable voices continued behind the door. A part of me wanted to burst in, confront them, and demand justice for everything I deserved. But another part-the weary and fragile part-knew I wasn''t strong enough to face the sight of that betrayal head-on right now. With what little strength I had left. I pulled myself away. I covered my mouth, desperately trying to stifle the pitiful cries that threatened to escape as I fed. Once I made it to the main bedroom, a sharp jolt of pain twisted my stomach. My hand instinctively reached for the bathroom doorknob, and 1 barely made it to the sink before vomiting up the burning acid that seared my throat. The husband I loved was cheating on me with my own sister, and on top of that ursed thing- His daughter had just died, and now he''s fucking my sister as easily as he breaths! How could he do this to me?! It didn''t take long for me topletely break down. The smell of blood from fresh wounds filled the air. I had been crying and screaming for what feh like hours. The bathroom was a disaster-items were strewn everywhere, most shattered against the walls. My eyes ached, and the pain in my head pounded relentlessly. "Oh my goodness!" Martha rushed in, turning off the shower. She found me curled up on the bathroom floor, soaked and trembling. Her scream echoed through the room when she aw what I was holding in my right hand. "Mydy! No, get rid of that she cried in terror. Martha effortlessly pried the piece of ss from my hand. I had no strength left to push her away. My body felt paralyzed. "Oh gods" she gasped, her face wincing. "What''s happened to you, mydy? You''re bleeding everywhere! Dear heavens, look at these bruises?" 1 blinked, my expression empty. If she could see every wound I carried, it still wouldn''t capture the depth of my broken hear. ¡°Okay... okay, no worries. I''ve got you" Martha murmured, wrapping a towel around my body. Her voice was soothing, though I could still hear the tremor of panic underneath. "Let''s get you somewhere dry first." Martha cradled me in her arms, using all her strength to carry me out of the wreck I''d created in the bathroom. She gently set me in a chair she''d pulled over. Like a hollow shell, I let her take over-handling everything, even me. She didn''t say a word or press me with questions as she went about her task. I wondered if her silence was a way of telling me I should be grateful. Grateful that my heart was still beating, that I had been stopped from shing my veins, or that she hoped I''d think more clearly, just as she had urged me before "Think clearly?¡± I repeated the words bitterly in my mind. I was sure I was on the verge of madness now. "All done," Martha said softly, patting the cor of my dress. "Breakfast will be ready in ten minutes, mydy. Would you prefer to go to the dining hall or shall I bring it to your room?" Blinking sluggishly. I lifted my gaze to her. "Breakfast" t morning already?" "Yes, mydy. It''s twenty minutes past seven. Worried creases were clearly etched on Martha''s forehead. I nced at the pendulum clock on the wall, then turned toward the open window. Sunlight spilled onto the earth. Oh... it really is morsing. see, fabered. "You didn''t notice at all?" she asked cautiously. "All I know is that my lungs are still functioning. I wonder why?" I could hear the anger in my weak tone. This was the second time I''d spoken rudely to Martha. I had never misbehaved toward her or any of the staff before¡ª especially Martha, for whom I had great respect. But after everything that had happened, my emotions and reason were in chaos. I The two people who were likely sating in the dining room right now should have been held ountable for what I was enduring. A wave of nausea. surged thought me as the disgusting memories resurfaced. I quickly covered my mouth, trembling violently, "M-mydy!" she called out, her voice filled with concer Hoth of her hands rested on my s shoulders. "Are you in pain anywhere else, my "No, there''s no need." I said, my breathbored. "I have to go downstairs. Manha backed away unconvinced "Are you u sure. Lely?" 1 nced down at my left hand, now wrapped in a fresh bandage, and absently stroked the sters on my neck and one on my check "Yeah, no worries, I replied as I stood up. 1-I mean it in another y way. I''m worried about you, mdy. Lord Lucienne appearedst night=" "I''ll handle it." I interrupted before she could finish. "And- I paused, turning back momentarily to look at her with a bitter expression. Thank k you for everything. Martha! Trying to stay calm andposed as I stepped into the grand family dining hall was an understatement. It took every ounce of my patience not to Jose control as I watched the two traitors before me act like they were the most righteous brings My mother was shocked. She rushed from the breakfast table toward me the moment she saw my appearance, my body covered in wound patches Her bted concern for her eldest daughter was almost Laughable. "For the love of the Moon Goddess! What on earth happened to you!!" she eximed, cupping my right cheek. "Look at you. Are you hurting yourself! This isn''t good!" I stayed silent, watching the lines on her face deepened with worry. My mother had always seen me as her perfect daughter, someone who could never be hurt by anything, at least in her mind. Calliope, on the other hand-my youngest sister- had been born a frail, weak-immune wolf pup, deserving of all the extra attention. "You''re wounded everywhere," Mom shuddered with horror, her eyes darting over me as her hands tried to assess my injuries. "But thank goodness it''s been treated. I meant to see youst night, but your father and I were busy discussing a new medicine form for Calliope. I''m sorry, dear" Father chimed in, "That''s right. We''re grieving just as much as you, but our meeting with the healerst night was crucial." 1 clenched my jaw. There was always a "bur" when it came to me, wasn''t there? "Alright, no problem." Most of the faces in the dining hall reflected difort at how easily I epted that excuse. From the corner of my eye, I noticed Dominic sitting across from me, about to say something, but my father beat him to it, "I heard a disturbance in the main wing. Did ite from your room?" Mom hugged me from the side, interrupting, "Honey, let her have breakfast first. It''s ''s been hard enough nough for her. Dominic... please! I stiffened. Dominic stood up as soon as Mom called his name. Without needing to look, I could feel her confused gaze directed at me. "Ruby?" I didn''t respond. My blood boiled when I caught the longing look in the younger blonde girl''s eyes as she stared at Dominic. Without a word, I passed by Dominic and sat between two other family members. The tter of cutlery suddenly faded into an eerie silence 1 could see Dominic struggling to contain his anger not far from the table. "What kind of attitude is that, Ruby Lucienne?" my father scolded. I gave a curt reply "Forgive me, Father. Bon app¨¦tit Pulling out my fork, I stabbed a piece of bacon with a cherry tomato and ate is slowly. The only sound in the room was the quiet tter of my own cutlery. "Huby! Your attitude here my father began, his voice rising "Enough. Dad!" Calliope''s voice cut him off mal Calliope''s voice. v trestnoy since like that She''s had a hard to days. Please, Father, sewe inelersanding, she pleaded, Faller sigh for your roen good. Hais is post a veprimand for yo "And I clouds nevsh thatde allispe''s right," another family member added. Let''s stay cabin. Yesterday was a long day for Lamas Kuliy Dominic finally spoke up. "Lunderstand Ruby''s situation, I in, Father, It''s line. Pd do the same formuar ughter, too?" My chest burned wi shen 1 brand that. The dining hall suddenly turned into a ce of mourning. Moun''s cpuiet solis folluted, soon joined by I cretreated, and several family members followed. "Emish your breakfast, my Lima. I''ll apany you afterwand? With that, my resizsini snapped Angri mised with pain crashed fiercely ine my voer. "Alpha,¡± I said. (gripping my fork tightly, my lips pressed into a thin line. " "Thank you for your concern. I really needed it." 1 "Well, lucky for us, that urgent operation smnly took our day. So today, Fischere for you," he said. (nodded with Isterimay. "Wight Must be thanks to the efforts of sun blonde pack member I sawst is night at the Alphia''s Den The tter of falling cutlery echoed through the an room, and I lifted my gaze and saw Calliope''s face turning pale, Chapter 3 Ruby''s POV, There wasn''t a single day when I could have imagined that word would be directed at two of the people I loved most. The first was my husband my bonded mate, the man who had sworn loyalty to me in the holy temple. The other was my younger sister, someone who shares my blood. The hatred I felt for them was like a rain of hot coals on my head, corrosive like acid, burning away any trace of affection I had left. It was hard for my mind to ept that my innocent, sweet sister could do something so despirable with her own sister''s husband. The sounds an actions I''d overheard behind the Alpha''s Den doorst night kept reying in my mind, confirming that it wasn''t a delusiol. Calliope''s response. when confronted, only made the gaping hole of my hatred grow evenrger. "W-what are you talking about, sister? the stammered. Calliope nced nervously at our parents, then back at me. Her hands trembled as she reached for the fork she had dropped on the table. The cheerfulness that usually lit her face was gone, reced by a cold sweat running down her temple. I''m waiting for your honesty, Calliope; I said, forcing my voice to remain calm. "Answer me." She looked down, her voice barely a whisper. ¡°LI don''t know what you''re talking about, sister. Can you be more clear?" Ruby, Calliope, our mother said, her voice confused. "What is this all about?" Calliope''s shoulders trembled. Her lips parted, but no words came out. Father, noticing his youngest daughter''s sudden fear and distress, wrapped her in his arms. He growled softly, warning for this nonsense to stop "Look at what you''ve done to your little sister, Ruby!" my father scolded, turning to my mother in despair. "Wife, please take Calliope to her room. She may have a rpse." Mom om went to do what Father asked. But I couldn''t let it go. were you doing there with my husband?" I pressed. "I saw you in the middle of the night at the Alpha''s Den, Calliope Lucienne. What we Calliope made a strangled sound, and as expected, my mother immediately came to her defense. "Please, Huby, watch your words," she said sternly. This must be a misunderstanding for everyone here" Caressing Calliope''s blonde locks, Mom shot me a sharp, irritated look. "Perhaps you''re delusional, Ruby, Like.. because your mind is in turmoil after Alicia''s death! We understand that, but this usation is going too far." "Your sister was in her room all day after the funeral. She had a fever-you know that!" my father added, ring at me. I turned my cold gaze on both of them. "Are Mom and Father willing to take responsibility for defending her?" They flinched, clearly not expecting this defiance. This wasn''t the Ruby Lucienne they were used to. But I no longer cared. I was exhausted to cure, "Do you as parents, have any real proof that she was "Ruby You- yesterday?" I challenged. Before my father could finish, I mmed my cutlery onto the table with a sharp ng. Everyone in the room recoiled in shock. "Fine! Let''s move this discussion somewhere private, with just the immediate family." My eyes were still locked on Calliope, my chest aching with unbearable pain. "Calliope, I sull respect your honor as my sister-for now. I hope you''ll do the same: e after this," The room became suffocating, thick with unspoken tension before it erupted into a burn of confusion and anger. All eyes were on Calliope and me. "What the hell is going on!?" someone shouted. "We''re pan of the immediate family, too!" Dominic''s rtives barked in turn. "We deserve to know everything that concerns this family and the pack! "We''re pack members as well. Are you going to ignore us. Luna Ruby! Cloquer "This is so disappointing Dennink, as Alpha, are you just going to sit there and do nothing someone else added, exasperated nced at Doamne. The Alpha hadpletely lost his usual stoicism. His gray eyes burned with anger, and his knuckles turned white as he clenched his hots. He was clearly calcting how much more patience he had left-how far I would go in exposing his dark affair. "Alpha, they uvers. Give them what they''re asking for" With that. I stood and left the room, alsandoning g it to the chaos behind me. Tears began to fall with every step I took. I chatched the front of my dress as my emotions churned-anger, disappointment, heartbreak, and hatred all merging into a single weapon that threatened to destroy me from within. hat the first question that came to my mind wasn''t "why"¡ªit was "what," What went wrong with all of this? Have I not been loving enought? Have I not been faithful enough? Have I not been good enough.. I loved my sister with everything I had. I gave my life to my Alpha mase in the name of true love. My innocent sider, who had always been vocal about her affection for me as her older sibling, and my husband-despite the cooling of our rtionship-I never believed he would run so contrimptiously into the arms of his wife''s sister. And yet.. what''s happening now is forcing me to face a painful reality. A small sol escaped my lips. What makes this all even more nonsensical is... Since when?! Since when did they start ying me for a fool Suddenly, a hand grabbed my arm, and before I could react, I was dragged and mmed into a room just off the hallway. I groaned. Pain shot through me as my shoulder collided with a tall urn. "You!" he spat. "Are you fucking crazy!!" Fumbling to find a handhold. I blinked through the haze of pain-trying to see who was dragging me. As the fog lifted, Dominic''s fierce face came mo view, his eyes wild and animalistic. "You deliberately chose this morning''s family gathering to humiliate me, didn''t you!!" he snarled. How dare y TELL ME! you! After everything I''ve done for you- My voice cracked as I cut him off, my fury taking control. Tell me, one by one, what good things you''ve done for me!" My breath came in ragged gasps, and the heat in my eyes increased as I rushed toward the source of my fury. y did it have to be "How cruel you''ve been to me!" I cried, pounding my chest with trembling hands. "Out of all the women in the world, why Calliope, Alpha Why" A roar of anger erupted from me, my trembling hands pulling at my hair in a futile attempt to ease the pain of betrayal. "Our doughter died that afternoon," I growled. "And that night... you!" My voice shook with rage. "You fucked your own wife''s sister! Couldn''t you have paid for another woman instead of turning my sister into your hisiful whore!!" A sharp p struck my cheek, so forceful that I tasted blood from the torn skin. Trembling. I raised my hand to the burning spot where he''d struck Don''t you dare call the mother of my child a a whore, you vile woman! Dominic roared. I flinched, my head spinning as I turned to look at him. He had the same shocked expression as if he couldn''t believe the words that had juste Trim his own mouth. For a moment, all the burning anger in my heart evaporated, reced by a cold, hollow numbness. "Mother of your child?" I asked, my voice cracking and strangled. Instead of answering. Dominic rubbed his face, muttering curses in the Russian I knew all too well. "A short, bitterugh escaped me as wild assumptions began swirling in my mind. "Calliope can''t be... that''s impossible." Domine said nothing, but the look of resignation in his eyes and the guilty silence that hung between us was all the confirmation I needed. "You''re sick. I''re sick, Alpha? Before I could react further, the door swung open, revealing my mother leading Calliope, who was cradling her stomach protectively. In that instant, my world shattered before my eyes. How far will this betrayal go! Chapter 4 Ruby''s POV "Your father will be here soon. Please have a seat, Ruby." Mom guided Calliope to the sofa,pletely unfazed by the turmoil unfolding around us. My My hands clenched tightly at my sides as I struggled to swallow the bitter taste of my anger. Dominic''s handprint on my cheek, along with the fresh wound at the corner of my mouth, was clearly visible. Mom saw She really saw it. And yet, shepletely ignored it! My eyes widened in disbelief as I watched Mom invite Dominic to sit with her. She knew. She knew he had pped her eldest daughter, and still. F waited-stupidly- for some defense a mother protecting her child. But no. Nothing caine for me.. "How long are you going to stand there, Ruby!" I almost missed the way she pinched the bridge of her nose, clearly exhausted. "We need to finish this discussion. You''ve been awful enough this morning" "Calliope is pregnant!" I yelled, my teeth clenched in frustration. "And does my awfulness evenpare to hers!" Mom gasped, her face nurning pale. She froze as Calliope slid off the sofa and fell to her knees. M-Mom Calliope stammered, shaking her head as she gripped our mother''s hands tightly, her whole body trembling. Tears streamed down her face as she sobbed uncontrobly. "Please. Mom," she begged through ragged breaths, "L.. I was reckless! Forgive me! I should have- The next moment shattered myposure. Dominic swooped in, wrapping Calliope in his arms with a sickening tenderness. His embrace was gentle, loving, and a sense of protectiveness. "Let''s move to your seat Calliope. I''ll handle the rest from here," Dominic said, gesturing for her to sit. e shook her head. "H-but we''re breaking the elder''s rules." she "Please, Calliope I took a step back, my gaze darting anxiously between the three of them. Mom looked like she was struggling to stayposed, but whether it was a trick of the light or not, I caught a glimpse of something close to panic in her brown eyes. The pieces of the puzzle fell into ce, and suddenly, it all made sense.. "Y-you knew.." My voice voice cracked. Mom closed her eyes in defeat "You knew, Mom" Lrepeated, horrified as I covered my mouth. "You knew about their affair this whole time, and you just let it happen!?! Mom sped her hands tightly, refusing to meet my gaze. "You have every right to be angry, my daughter. But this... but this is for the future of the Pack" she said softly, almost resigned. "For the future of the Pack, you say?" My jaw dropped as 1 questioned my own sanity after hearing her words. "You can talk so easily about the Pack''s future while you''re paving a path of hell for your Luna-your daughter!!" I exploded, my voice shaking with rage. "Stop. Ruby Dominic red at me, his eyes burning with anger. Meanwhile, Calliope continued sobbing quietly in uietly in his arms is arms, too afraid to say anything. "Show some respect to your mother," he growled through gritted teeth. "As Alpha, I won''t tolerate this disrespect. None of this would''ve happened if it weren''t for you! You''re the problem here, Ruby. We''re just trying to find a solution without causing more harm." Trans flowed freely down my face. Me! Am I the problem again here! Dominic clcked his tongue. "The Elders demand a male heir. They''re not satisfied with two generations of Lucienne descendants without one. You know well than the Lucienne n, your family, was the main pioneer in building this pack alongside the Foster." He paused, letting the weight of his words sink in. "There''s no history of the Lucienne bloodline without a male heir. That''s why your mother, who the Elders alreadybeled a fathure, ced so much hope on you. But look at where we are now. Wiping her tear-filled eyes, my mom added. "As a Lucienne, I ask for your understanding, Ruby.." "Everything I did was to protect you and your mother. Your father even begged me to convince the Elders not to dethrone you like they did to your mother. Dominic interjected Their words rang in my ears. I absorbed all of it, but I couldn''t help but question how easily they betrayed me. My heart felt like it was being torn apart. First, my sister and husband, now my parents and the elders-people who had always been close to me had all turned their backs with such case. What''s the point of me even being here..! I gripped the sides of my dress tightly. With what little sanity I had left, I forced myself to ask onest question. "Was it the Elders who proposed Calliope as a consort for the Alpha?" Dominic responded, "Yes." My lips trembled, "Since when?" "Six months ago I choked on my tears, struggling to stay upright. Six m months... Six months of lies, secrets, and deception "Sister" I nced at Calliope, her tearful eyes full of regret and despair. "I''m sorry I''m really sorry! Her sabs grew louder as she copsed to her knees, burying her face in her hands. I stood there, frozen, torn between the love I had for her and the searing pain of her betrayal. "Ruby. I know this is h is hard for you "Mom." I unterrupted, my voice filled with disappointment as I looked at her onest time. I''m disappointed in you." I turned away, leaving my mom with my two greatest heartbreaks. The road ahead stretched out, cold and empty, but as I stepped out of the room, my anger was momentarily snuffed out by the sight before me. Pack members were running in panic and fear. Something was terribly wrong. Before I could fully process what was happening, my father-pale and disheveled-emerged from the crowd. He rushed toward me his face was etched with a near-death level of worry. I lud rarely seen him like this-so broken, so distressed. Any resentment I felt toward hin vanished. reced by a sudden wave of anxiety. "Ruby! Where''s Dominic?" His voice was frantic. ¡°H¨Che''s with mom.¡± I stammered, still trying toprehend everything, but I quickly grabbed his arm as he started to leave. "Why? What''s happened, Father!" His eyes darted around, wild with paranoia and helplessness. "W-we''ve been attacked, Ruby "What?" My heart plummeted as shock surged through me. "By who? Who would attack us!?" Jin as my father was about to reply, a deep, noble baritone voice echoed down the hallway. "Well, I must say. I''m hurt that you''d call my friendly visit an "attack: my friend" Every nerve in my body went rigid at the sound of that voice. Slowly. I turned toward the entrance, where a tall and imposing figure stood nked by two others. He grinned, his familiar red eyes glinting with both amusement and danger. "And." the man''s sl man''s sharp gazended on me, his grin widening. "Who is this beautifuldy with tears in her eyes?" Chapter 5 The halls of the Ravenhold Id manor reeked it desperation. Every step took on the polished wooden floors seemed to reverberate through the walls, art kinspoken annesineenient af tv presence. The air bang heng, dinged with fear-the kind that made my lips curl into a satisfied grin. My hooti left a faint inprint of blood on the rug, a gill from myst "encounter" on the way here. Ah, how kind Tun I was here for business, of course. The Ravenhold Pack lunisores something I wanted. A magical artifact. It is said that the Ravenfold Park! That artifact is very useful for the middle of the war and I want it. The fools didn''t even know how to wield it properly. Yet here I wa reacquaint myself with old "friends" and take what I required. A fair trade, I''d say. After all, my presence alone was a gift. As I tumed a corner, the familiar went of aging bones and feeble determination greeted ine. Nathaniel Lucienne. The former Alpha of Ravenhold had not aged well. His silver hair was sparse, his once-proud frame lunched like an old willow, I could almost hear his heartbeat quicken as he caught sight of me. Ah, but my attention shifted swiftly, drawn to something someone. She was standing just behind him, her delicate frame wrapped in sorrow like a shroud. Tear tracks glistened on her pale cheeks, and her fiery hair spilled over her shoulders like liquid embers. She was stunning-a fragile work of art marred by saduris. My grin widened as her scent hit me Not just beauty, then. Power. Nathaniel opened his mouth, likely to grovel or protest, but I silenced him with a raised hand. Just tell me. Her name Nathaniel stammered, his fear palpable. "This is Ruby. My my daughter. Eldest daughter and the Luna of the Ravenhold Pack." I was expecting it. Ruby Lucienne. Of course. I''ve heard of Nathaniel''s eldest daughter. Her reputation as a cerads and brave Luna is well known. her strength. her beauty from her childhood until now. Who is the lucky man to have this woman in his arms? But the titles, roles, allegiances-they were of no concern to me. What intrigued me was the fire flickering behind her eyes, buried beneathyers of sadness. This one had spirit. "Ruby Lucienne." 1 mused, letting her name roll off my tongue like fine wine. "Interesting But I''d much rather hear it from her own lips. Well, my dear? Do you speak for yourself, or is your father''s shadow toofortable!" Ruby''s hands trembled for a moment, but then she straightened her shoulders. Brave little thing. Her gaze met mine, hesitant yet defiant. in Ruby Lucienne. Luna of Ravenhold. It is a blessing to meet you. Your Majesty," The beautiful woman bowed her body respectfully before me. A sense of excitement ran through my blood. I liked the way her lips referred to me as "Your Highness. But I wondered how those lips would address my first name with a tone of more than mere honor. I lied my head, studying her. There was strength beneath her fear, and it delighted me. So few had the nerve to meet my gaze, let alone stand their ground. "Well done," I said, giving her a slow p. The sound echoed mockingly in the corridor. "A fine conversationalist. Much betterpany than dear old Nathaniel here" I spared the former Alpha a nce. His face had drained of color, his fists clenched at his sides as he struggled to contain his fury. How entertaining. "You should be proud, Nathaniel," I continued, my voice dripping with mock sincerity. "To have raised such a delightful creature. A rarity, truly." Ruby''s cheeks flushed, though whether from embarrassment or anger, I couldn''t tell. I leaned closer, letting the dark magic that clung to me like a second skin brush against her aura. She shivered, a delicious reaction "Tell me, Luna,¡± I murmured, my voice low enough that only she could hear. "How much are you willing to sacrifice for this pack of yours? For I licked my gaze toward Nathaniel. She didn''t answer, but the sharp intake of her breath told me enough. I chuckled and stepped back, allowing the tension to ease for now. "Yourpany has been most enjoyable," I said, my tone light, as though we were old friends parting after tea Chapes 3 "Terhaps will speak agam before I leave. I do enjoy a good chat, my beautiful Lona" The satisfying sound of Nathaniel''sbored breathing filled the hallway as I patted his trail shoulder. I smiled with a sweet taste mixed with venom "Al my friend. Nathaniel. We have some things to discuss, don''t we?" I slid my arm around his trembling shoulders, steering him forward "Lead the way old friend-" He hesitated, ncing back at his daughter, Ruby, as if she could save him. But she remained rooted in ce, her face a mask of forcedpoutre 1 shed her a grin before nudging Nathaniel forward, my grip tightening slightly¡ªa not-so- subtle reminder of who was in control The walk to his private study was silent save for the faint creak of the doorboards and Nathaniel''s uneven breathing. When we arrived, I pushed the door open without waiting for an invitation and gestured for him to enter first. The room smelled of old wood and despair, a perfect setting for the COMENtion toe. I settled into a worn leather armchair, stretching out as if 1 owned the ce-and, in a way, I did. Nathaniel stood by the deck, his hands trembling as he sped them in front of him. a pleasant chat, shall we?" "Come now, sit" I said, waving at the chair across from me. "Let''s make this ap Nathaniel obeyed his body trembled. He looked at me as if I were a snake poised to strike-which, to be fair, wasn''t entirely inurate. The artifact I began my tone light, as though discussing the weather. "You know why I''m here" His face turned ashen. "Killian, please... it''s.. it''s a family heirloom. I can''t just give it up" "Oh, dear. You''re still as cheeky as when you were three years old wearing diapers, my friend. But fine, I forgive you" Nathaniel bowed even lower. "Forgive me, Your Majesty. 1 L" "Shut up and get back to the main topic. I want that thing, son "With all due respect, Your Majesty. I can''t hand over the artifact. As I said, it is our family heirbloom," he stammered. Iughed, the sound sharp and grating "A family heirloom! Oh, Nathaniel, you wound me with your lies. We both know it''s no longer in your possession. It''s with your son-inw, Dominic Foster, isn''t it?* I leaned forward, my grin widening as his expression crumbled into desperation. The new Alpha of your precious pack." Nathaniel fell to his knees, hands sped as he pleaded. "Your Majesty, I beg you. It''s not what you think. Please, don''t" "Don''t grovel. It''s pathetic." I stood and delivered a swift kick to his side, sending him sprawling to the floor. He let out a pained grunt, clutching his ribs I stepped over him, crouching down to meet his tear-filled gaze. "Call your daughter, I ordered. His eyes widened. "M-my daughter? B-but" 1 find myself in need of a better mood. And she, it seems, my panacea." I straightened, dusting off my hands as though ridding myself of his filth. "Oh, and Nathaniel! I want the artifact in my possession within 24 hours. Without waiting for a response, I turned and exited the study, leaving him groaning on the floor. I made my way back to the main hall, where my flock waited, their dark figures blending seamlessly with the shadows. My mood had soured, but I could already feel the strings of amusement as I anticipated Ruby''s arrival. She did not disappoint. Ruby entered the hall gracefully, her fiery hair catching the dim light like a living me. She approached me with her head bowed slightly, not by way of reproach and still have that aura. A tantalizing aura of courage Unfortunately, the traces of sadness were still there and even more obvious than thest time I saw her. I decided that sad face didn''t suit her. However, rather than that I was curious about the cause of that woman''s sadness. Perhaps I could be a suitableforter for her? Who knows? "Your Majesty. How may I serve you?" Ituby Lucienne! Such a lovely name for such a lovely creature. My smile sharpened as I gestured to a seat nearby. "Come, sit, Let''s get better acquainted, shall we? After all, my flock and I will be staying here for three days. Consider it.. a gesture of friendship. Can we?" Chapter 6 Kalliam''s POV poured the tea with a practiced elegance. From my vantage point, I studied her intently. The golden olden cascade of her har framed her face like a halo, and her piercing blue eyes shimmered with an inner light that defied the sadness etched into her features Ruby Lucienne-¨¤ name as hal as the womun herself. Her aura was a strange bolni, soothing in a way Bhain''t anticipated. Intriguing I leaned back in my chair, letting my gaze linger. It was almost a pity that her beauty was tainted by despair. Almost. Her pain only added depth to her allire, and 1 found myself wanting more of her-her presence, hier spirit, her very essence. Married or not, she would be inine. That much was certain - "Thank you for the tea," I said, my tone deceptively cordial. "You''re quite the hostess, Ruby, Nathaniel must be proud" Her lips curved into a faint sin smile, though it didn''t reach her eyes. "It''s nothing. Your Majesty Hospitality is expected in our park" I chuckled, taking a deliberate sip of the tea. "You sell yourself short. This pack thrives because of you. Everyone Innes it. Ruby shook her head, her expression modest. "It''s a collective effort. Alpha Dominic has worked hard to maintain our alliances and secure our territory. I only support him." The mention of her husband soured my mood, though I didn''t let it show, Dominic Foster. The so-called hero, revered for his victories and praised for his leadership. What a farce. I''d crossed paths with men like him before-glorified puppets whose strings were pulled by those far more cunning. Heroes were so tedious, with their principles and ideals. Viins, on the other hand... now there was a role worth ying. "Dominic is fortunate to have you." I expressed, my voice dripping with feigned sincerity. "A war hero paired with a brilliant Luna. Truly, a match made in heaven" She nced down at her tea, her grip tightening around the delicate cup- "Thank you. That means a lot, Your Majesty." "Tell me, Ruby," 1 began, steering the conversation. "Do you have children? I''ve heard rumors that you 1. do. Her reaction was immediate. Tension rippled through her frame, and the serene mask she wore cracked. "..." Her voice faltered, and she swallowed hard before continuing. ¡°I had a daughter. She passed away two days ago." Ah, so that was the source of her grief Interesting. I tilted my head, watching her closely. "My condolences. May I ask what happened?" She hesitated, the pain in her eyes deepening. It was clear the wound was still fresh, too raw to expose. I waved a hand dismissively "Don''t answer if you''re not ready," I said, leaning back once more. "Grief is a heavy burden. You shouldn''t feel obligated to share it Her shoulders rxed slightly, though the sadness remained. "Thank you, Your Majesty." Changing the subject, 1 gestired to the room around us. "It''s curious. For someone as beloved as you, I''ve farely seen you at social gatherings. Why is that?" Ruby''s lips pressed into a thin line. "I prefer to focus on my responsibilities within the pack. The gatherings are more about maintaining appearances than achieving anything meaningful "Ah, appearances," I mused, smirking. ¡°Still, it''s a shame. Your presence would undoubtedly brighten any room. Even I would''ve enjoyed seeing you more often." Her gaze flicked to mine, wary but polite. "You''re too kind, Your Majesty." "Not at all I speak only the truth," I replied smoothly, savoring the subtle tension between us. Besides, this pack you Your husband''s efforts are... adequate, bur I''ve heard whispers that you''re the true cornerstone of Ravenhold? owes much of its its prosperity to and lead us hus. Without Ruby shook her head, her voice firm. "It''s the cooperation of the entire pack, Your Majesty. Dominic works tirelessly to protect him, none of this would be possible." Iughed, a low, dark sound that filled the ro room. "Dominic. Yes, the great her." My tone turned mocking. "Tell me, Ruby, do you believe in heroes! I find them dreadfully dull. Always so predictable, so righteous. I much prete viins. They have_ir." Her silence spoke volumes. I leaned forward, a slow smile spreading across my face. ¡°Tell me, Ruby. How would this pack fare without its beloved hero1 Would it crumble? Or would it flourish under someone more, capable!" Luna Ruby did not answer my question. No matter. I would let it slide for now. My eyes lingered on her face, tracing every detail. The elegant arch of her eyebrows, the sharp lines of her nose, the soft contours of her cheeks, and those lips. Ah, those lips. What would they feel like against mine? The thought brought a crooked smile to my face. Just as I was savoring the moment, a sharp noise shattered the tranquility. A young servant stumbled into the room, her face pile and her steps unsteady. She bowed low before Ruby, her head nearly brushing the floor as she stammered something incoherent about Martha, the Luna''s servant. Ruby''s reaction was immediate. She ro rose to her feet, herposure faltering for the first time. for m my reply, she hurried out of the room, her skins "Excuse me, Your Majesty," she said quickly, her voice taut with urgency. Without waiting f swishing behind her. I watched her leave, a slow smile ying on my lips. "Leonidas My Beta appeared almost instantly, his towering g frame casting a shadow across the room. "Yes, my King!" he replied, bowing his head slightly. "Follow her. Find out what''s happening," I ordered. "It seems the Ravenhold Pack nevercks for drama." Leonidas nodded and disappeared as swiftly as he hade. I turned my attention back to the tea Ruby had poured for me. Sweet tea. I usually found it cloying, but somehow, when prepared by her hands, it was tolerable. I sipped it slowly, letting the vors linger on my tongue. There was something poetic about it-her essence lingering even in her absence. Half an hour passed, each moment marked by the rhythmic ticking of the ornate clock on the mantle. When Leonidas returned, his expression was grim, though his steps were steady. "Report," Imanded, setting the teacup down with a soft clink. "Martha, Luna Ruby''s loyal servant, has been found dead. Her body was discovered in the warehouse. The scene suggests foul y." 1 arched a brow, intrigued. "Foul y, you say? How unfortunate. Did you learn anything else?" Leonidas shook his head. "Not yet, my King. The pack is in disarray. They''re scrambling to contain the situation" 1 leaned back in my chair, steepling my fingers. "Interesting. This pack continues to surprise me A slow smile spread across my face. "Let''s see how dear Ruby handles this. And keep a close eye on her. Leonidas. I want to know every move she makes. He bowed. "As youmand" As Leonidas exited, I picked up the teacup once more, swirling the amber liqu that lingered. Yes, this visit was proving far more entertaining than I had anticipated. liquid inside. I took another sip of the tea, savoring the faint sweetness "Wonderful." Chapter 7 Ruby''s POV as my trembling legs would carry me. Meanwhile, the servant trailing behind me, her frantic footsteps echoing my own. The words still rang in my ears hollow and hurt Martha is dead. My heart thundered in my chest, a wild, desperate rhythm that drowned out all other sound. Each step forward felt like trudging through quicksand. I stumbled, nearly falling, but I forced myself upright. I had to reach her. d to see for myself The crowd came into view as I approached the warehouse. A throng of curious faces pressed together, murmurs rippling through them like a tide, I barely registered their presence. "Move!" I demanded. "Get out of the way!" When they didn''t move quickly enough. I shoved past them, ignoring their startled protests. The world narrowed to a single point of focus as I broke through the wall of bodies. And then I saw it. Blood. So much blood. It seeped across the floor in dark, viscous pools, glinting in the dim light. My breath caught, and my knees buckled. Hanging pathetically from a shelf, like a broken doll discarded by a careless child, was Martha. My Martha. A scream fore from my throat, raw and piercing, as I rushed to her side. "No! No, no, no!" I sobbed, my hands fumbling with the cruel bonds that held her limp form alofi. My fingers shook so violently that I could barely manage to untie them. "Helpi me!" I shouted at the onlookers. "Don''t just stand there, help me!" No one moved. They were all still standing there, too scared toe closer. Tears blurred my vision as I finally managed to loosen the knots, Martha''s lifeless body slumped forward into my arms, and I cradled her against me, her blood soaking into my dress. This woman had been more than a servant. She had been my nanny, my confidante, the one person who had stood by me through every storm And now she was gone. "How could this happen?" I wailed, my voice breaking "Who did this!" My words hung in the air, unanswered. No one dared to meet my gaze. Two days ago, I had lost my daughter, Alicia. My beautiful, sweet girl. My heart had barely begun to process that unbearable loss when I stumbled upon the betrayal that shattered my world. Alpha Dominic, my husband, the man I had given everything to, was having an affair. And not just with anyone. With Cami. My own sister. Now this. Now Martha. I clung to Martha''s lifeless body, my tears falling freely. The guards approached cautiously, their faces etched with pity. "Luna," one of them said softly "Please step aside. We need to take care re of her, my v Luna "No!" I snapped, clutching Martha tighter. "You don''t touch her! She''s mine! She''s mine!" as was their duty as pack guards. But they didn''t back away. One of them reached out, demanding andunanding as "Luna Ruby, please. Let us help you. Let us help her" 1 shook my head, sobbing harder. The weight of it all crushed me, stealing the air from my lungs. My litle Alicia. Dominic and Cami. And now Martha. The threads that held my life together had snapped, leaving me with nothing but jagged fragments. Finally, my strength gave out. The guards gently pried Martha from my arms, and I copsed to the floor, my sobs echoing in the cavernous space. Why was this happening! What had I done to deserve such cruelty? 1 knelt on the cold, blood-shirked floor, my body trembling with the weight of grief and rage. My voice cracked as I shouted to those around me. "How could this happen? Who did this?" But no one answered, their silence like a thousand needles piercing my skin. Turning to one of the guards, 1 forced my voice into steadiness. "Check everyone who interacted with Martha. Anyone wandering suspiciously. Check the surveince cameras" I clutched my clothes. "NOW! The guard nodded quickly, disappearing into the crowd as my heart continued to break into pieces. It wasn''t long before he arrived-Dominic. My mare. My betrayer. He strode in with his Beta, his brow furrowed as though he had the audacity to be confused. "What is going on here?" Pain red within §± like a fresh wound. Memories of him defending Cami, his arms around her, his soft assurances to her during the interrogation, resurfaced with brutal rity. The p he''d given me, the mark it left, still throbbed. And yet he dared to look at me as though I owed him an exnation. I rose to my feet, forcing every ounce ofposure 1 could muster. "Howte you are. Dominic, I stated, my tone brittle with restrained fury. "An Alpha should be present in moments like these. But of course, you must have been preupied" His confusion deepened, but certainly not for guilt. "Did you know?" I asked my voice dripping with venom. "Did you know that a King graces our pack with his presence! Or have you been too busy amending to your mistress and your unborn child to notice?" His face darkened, and the room grew unnervingly quiet. My words hung in the air, daring him to deny them. But instead of responding. Dominic''s expression twisted with rage. Before I could react, he grabbed me by the hair, yanking me forward. Pain exploded across my cheek as his hand struck me, the sound ringing out like a gunshot. Gasps rippled through the crowd. Fresh blood trickled from the corner of my lips, and the stinging ache of the blow burned into my skin. blurred my vision: my trembling hands held my face. For the second time today? Tears The murmurs grew louder, the pack shifting ufortably, until the air itself seemed to change. A deadly chill swept through the room, silencing every voice and movement. I felt it before I saw him. Killian Rudwick, the Lycan King, stepped into the room His crimson eyes burned like cibers as they swept across the scene, taking in every detail. When his gazended on me, his expression tumed to one of faint amusement, though his aura betrayed his irritation. "I had hoped," he began, the calmness in his voice was clearly a deception even as it carried the deadliest of subtle threats, "to retire in peace and test the best that the Ravenhold Park has to offer. Perhaps enjoy a few of the famed luxuries I''ve heard so much about. And yet..." He tilted his head, his sharp gaze falling on Dominic "Imagine my surprise." Killian continued, stepping forward leisurely, "when instead of tranquility, I find chaos. Amotion loud enough to disturb even me. And is that." He gestured toward me with a slight tilt of his chin, his eyes narrowing. "Blood, on your Luna''s lips!" Chapter 8 I blinked in shock, the Lycan King''s unexpected question leaving me momentarily speechless. But it was his nest action that sent shivers down my spine. Without warning, he reached out, his fingers brushing against the corner of my bleeding lip. The contact was startlingly getitle, and yet it sent a wave of cold dread through me. He wiped away the blood with the pul of his thumb, holding it up briefly before tasting it Estiffened, my breath catching in my throat. The air around him seemed to grow heavier, darker. I had almost forgotten who this man truly was This was killum Rudwick, the Lycan King-immortal, ruthless, and shrouded in a legacy of blood and conquest. His reign stretched hack centuries, long before my father''s name was even spoken Packs across thend had bent their knees to him, just as the Ramenhold Pack had no man at all. Something Killian''s crimson eyes, flicked toward Dominic, gleaming with mockery. "A man who does not know how to treat women is no man at beautiful should never be destroyed, Alpha Dominic." He turned back to me, his expression unreadable. My stomach is twisting. I tried to think quickly about what was the best reaction and response to give to the king. I was afraid that if Lacted wrongly then this Pack would be affected. I tried to suppress all my sadness and pain about the whole tragedy that had bef?llen me to control the situation that would be much worse. And Damien''s arrogant attitude didn''t help at all. "Tell me, Luna," he stated softly, though his voice carried an edge, "what could have happened to make your honorable Alpha strike his own wifet And why does no one here defend their Luna! How.. sad. I froze, stunned by the realization that the cruelest of men-Killion Rudwick-had just defended me. My mind raced, trying to make sense of his actions. Before I could respond. Dominic''s voice cut through the tension. stay out of this. Killian Dominic growled, his tone dripping with insolence. "This is a private matter between my Luna and me." My blood was freezing. I stared in disbelief at Dominie. Did he just use the first name of a King? Is he an idiot! Killian''s expression didn''t change, but the atmosphere shifted. His aura darkened, suffocating the room with its intensity. I could feel his murderous intent like a de pressed against my throat. This man could end Dominic with a flick of his wrist, and I wasn''t sure if I wanted to stop him. In a desperate attempt to defuse the situation, 1 forced myself to speak Your Majesty, would you allow me to escort you back to your chambers! You deserve rest after such an eventful evening Killian''s gaze shifted back to me, and for a moment, I felt as though I were standing under the scrutiny of a predator deciding whether to y with its prey. His hand moved, his fingers brushing my cheek with a deliberate slowness that made my skin prickle. "With this face of yours?" he murmured, his voice a low rumble, he murmured apanied by a purr that sent shivers down my spine. I don''t remember ever feeling such a gentle touch. "Do you truly wish to take me to my chambers? I''ll take that as a direct invitation to take care of you, Luna." His lips curled into a smirk that sent a shiver down my spine. Dominic''s sharp intake of breath behind me was enough to signal his growing fury Killian, however, seemed entirely unconcerned, his attention sull fixed on me. "Damn bastard! DONT TOUCH MY WIFE! Any action Dominic took was inunediately stopped by the immortal Lycan King''s official guard. "I don''t care who you are, put your hands away and find another bitch to keep youpany in your room!" he yelled. Once again, Killian didn''t care and acted as the full authority as if Dominic''s title as Alpha here was useless. ¡°Come,¡± Killian inivited, hid hand reached out to me. "Aut ipetent Alpha has no ce interfering here. Luna, you will apany ma I hesitated, feeling the heat of Dominic''s anger at my back. But I couldn''t look at bin. I couldn''t face him, not after everything he had done. Instead, I nodded, the tiniest movement, and stepped forward to follow Killian while receiving his hand. His presence was maic, and though I feared him, a small part of me was grateful for the reprieve he offered from Dominic. Behind me, Domine''s voice rose in a furious shout. "Ruby! Get back here! Don''t you dare walk away with him!" I walked beside him, my steps small and cautious, as though the very air around the Lycan King might crush me if I moved too abruptly. My hear thundered in my chest, my palms damp despite my best efforts to remainposed. Those red eyes.. they were terrifying Burning like embers, they seemed to pierce straight through me, stripping away every pretense and defense I could muster. The silence was unbearable, but I dared not speak. Then his voice, low and smooth, broke through the tension. Lhuge mid-steps, ncing up at him befour quickly looking away. "My y apologies, You St Majesty it won''t happen again" He waved a hand abbonissively, a taim sinirk nigging at his hips. "No need for apologies, Luna. Fear is a natural response. But it does amuse me howe delicate you seem His words sung, though I couldn''t determine if they were meant as an insult or a simple observation. I said nothing my gaze hallway alead until we reached his door. The weight of his presence seemed to grow heavier as he opened the door and stepped inside, gesturing for me to Once inside, I bowed deeply, my voice trembling slightly as I spoke, "Your Majesty, if I may, I would like to return now. There are matters 1 mint "The death of your servam. "Killian interrupted smoothly. 1 snapped my head up, startled. How could he possibly know! My lips parted to ask, but his sunile stopped me cold ¡°Ah, I have my ways" The red eyes flickered annusedly. "Nothing escapes me, Lama. Not in my domain I swallowed hard. y unease deepening. "Then you understand why I must go. There are investigations to be door Killian''s expression darkened slightly, and he stepped closer, his crimson gaze locking onto mine. "You may leave this room after you''ve healed" Panic surged within me. "That''s not necessary," I insisted, taking a small step back. "1 can manage just fine " "Enough," he said firmly, his tone brooking no argument. "Sir." Reluctantly, I obeyed, sinking onto the edge of a plush chair near the window, Killian stood before me, his towering presence making me feel impossibly small. He extended a hand, his palm glowing faintly with a soft, unnatural light. E stiffened as his power enveloped me, the warmth of it spreading through my body like liquid fire. The sensation was both soothing and disconcerting. My check, where Dominic had struck me, no longer burned. The sting of my split lip vanishes), reced by a gentle tingling. I should have been grateful, but the closeness of this man unnerved me. He leaned in slightly, inspecting my face, His scent-earthy and faintly spiced, like pine and smoke-filled the space between us, wrapping arounil me like a cloak. I could see every detail of his face now: the sharp angles of his jaw, the faint scar tracing his cheekbone, the way his crimsoni eyes glowed with an otherworldly light. The nimors.. they were true. This man was impossibly handsome, maic in a way that delied logic. It was no wonder so many women would willingly warm his bed, despite the danger he exuded. Killian tilted his head, a faint smirk ying on his lips as his gaze swept over me. "You''re staring, Luna." Heat rushed to my cheeks, and I quickly looked away. "My apologies, Your Majesty, I didn''t mean to." "Don''t apologize" he said smoothly, his voice almost teasing. "I''m used to it. You wouldn''t be the first to admire me." 1 bit back a retort, didn''t want to look even more foolish in front of this man. It''s bad enough for me to appear as weakma. I''m afraid this gossip will spread out of the pack and be the talk of the people. He straightened, stepping back just enough to give me room to breathe. "There, You''re as good as new. But don''t mistake this for kindness, Ruby. I simply dislike seeing beauty destroyed by unworthy hands." I looked up at him, my breath catching in my throat. "W-what?" "And I send my condolences to your loyal servant. If you please, my Beta was on hand to help you. Please just ept my kindatess." It was more than a request. The words in my throat just stuck. Nothing wanted toe out. The man seemed to be enjoying the reaction he was causing me. The corner of his lips tugged. "Go on to finish your duty. I''m sure I''ll see you again this dinner season. Aren''t we, Luna?" Chapter 9 Ruby''s POV Imally escaping the suffocating presence of the Lycan King. 1. My mind racing with thoughts of Martha How had ite to this! The question burned as me as I found the guards stationed near the entrance of the manor. They straightened at my approach, their expressions wary as they took in my disheveled state. "Have you found anything! Anything at all about Martha''s death?" I demanded. One of them, a wiry man with a nervous twitch, cleared his throat, "Luna, we, we''ve been investigating, but so far, there''s no clear evidence. No signs of forced entry or unusual activity." I narrowed my eyes, my anger boiling over. "Nothing! You''re telling me that Martha-a woman who has served this pack faithfully for decades- just happened to end up hanging in a warehouse without cause! Brutalized like that! And you''ve found nothing!!" They exchanged uneasy nces, their silence more damning than any words. I clenched my fists, trembling with frustration. Ipetent, the lot of you! If you can''t do your jobs, I''ll find someone who can." I snapped Before they could respond, I felt another presence behind me. Turning. I saw my parents. My mother''s face was drawn with worry, while my father''s expression was stem. But their concern felt hollow, as if Martha''s death was merely an inconvenience. "Baby," my mother began, her tone soft. "You must take care of yourself. You''ve been through so much- "Don''t." I interrupted, my voice, icy. "Don''t pretend you care. You didn''t care when Alicia died. You didn''t care when Dominic humiliated me. And now you treat Martha''s death like it''s nothing more than the loss of a wild bird." My father bristled, his jaw tightening "Watch your tone. Ruby. We''re your parents." I met his re with one of my own. "Parents? The most useless ones I''ve ever known. Go back to Cami. She needs you more than I do." The words hung heavy in the air, my father''s face reddening with anger. But I didn''t care. I turned on my heel and walked past them, my mind set on finding answers for myself. Reaching Martha''s quarters, I unlocked the door with trembling hands and slipped inside. The room was as I remembered it: neat and unassuming But now, it felt hollow, like a shell of the woman who had once inhabited it I tore through her belongings, searching for anything that might exin what had happened. Drawers were emptied, linens tossed aside, and still......... nothing. Frustration gnawed at me as I stood in the center of the room, surrounded by chaos, Just as I turned to leave, something caught my attention. A faint shift beneath my feet. Frowning. I knelt and pressed against the floorboards, my fingers searching for the source of the movement. To my surprise, one of the tiles lifted, revealing a hiddenpartment beneath. Inside was a small, worn chest. My heart pounded as I lifted it out, the wood cool against my palms. The lock was simple, and it took little effort to open Within. I found a stack of yellowed letters tied with twine and an aged journal with a cracked leather cover. At first, it seemed ordinary, the kind of personal keepsakes anyone might have. But as I thumbed through the journal, a sense of unease crept over My hands trembled as I unfolded the first letter, the parchment crinkling beneath my touch. The words blurred before my eyes, but I forced myself to focus, to read. Each line was a dagger to my chest, slicing deeper with every revtion. The letters spoke of secrets, betrayals, and lies-a world I had never known existed within the walls of the Ravenhold Pack Sickened, I pushed the letters aside and reached for the journal, its cracked leather cover cold against my fingertips. Martha''s neat, deliberate handwriting filled the pages, and as I read, the words began to warp my reality ''Ruby, if you are reading this, I am gone. There is no easy way to tell you the truth I''ve hidden all these years. The people you call Mother and Father are not your real parents Your real parents were the former Alpha and Luna of Ravenhold, and they loved you more than life itself. But their love could not save them." My breath caught in my throat. I blinked, my mind reeling. Not my... real parents! The room seemed to tilt, and 1 gripped the edge of the desk to steady myself. I forced my eyes back to the page, desperate for answers. They were murdered, Ruby. Your parents-the true leaders of this pack-were betrayed. It was no ident, no rogue attack, as you were led to bchieve Nathaniel Lacienne, the man you call Father, orchestrated their deaths. He wanted the Alpha''s throne, and he was willing to kill for it. Trasped. My chea tightened as the words etched themselves into my memory. The journal continued, unraveling a web of treachery that spanned Martha, why did you keep this from me for long time? Why did you let him..... You were spared, Ruby, not out of mercy but out of greed. You were the legal heir to your parents'' wealth, and Nathaniel needed you alive to solidify his im I knew, Ruby I knew and I said nothing I am guilty of silence, of cowardice. But I could not let you live your life never knowing the truth. The words blurred as tears filled my eyes, dripping onto the page. My entire world had been a lie. The man who raised me, who imed to protect nie, had been the architect of my parents'' murder. The betrayal was so profound that it left me hollow, my heart shattering into pieces I couldn''t kather I mmed the journal shut, my hands trembling as I clutched it to my chest. Martha''s guilt, her silence, her love for me-it was all tangled together in a mess of emotions I couldn''t untangle. My breaths came in shallow gasps as the weight of the truth bore down on me. My parents. My real parents. Murdered. Nathaniel. A surge of anger flooded my veins, hot and uncontroble. I had to confront him. I had to know if it was true. But even as the rage consumed me, a small voice whispered in the back of my mind: What if it is true? What then? However, rather than that if it''s the truth. That means Cami is not my sister? AD Chapter 10 Ruby''s POV Imally escaping the suffocating presence of the Lycan King. 1. My mind racing with thoughts of Martha How had ite to this! The question burned as me as I found the guards stationed near the entrance of the manor. They straightened at my approach, their expressions wary as they took in my disheveled state. "Have you found anything! Anything at all about Martha''s death?" I demanded. One of them, a wiry man with a nervous twitch, cleared his throat, "Luna, we, we''ve been investigating, but so far, there''s no clear evidence. No signs of forced entry or unusual activity." I narrowed my eyes, my anger boiling over. "Nothing! You''re telling me that Martha-a woman who has served this pack faithfully for decades- just happened to end up hanging in a warehouse without cause! Brutalized like that! And you''ve found nothing!!" They exchanged uneasy nces, their silence more damning than any words. I clenched my fists, trembling with frustration. Ipetent, the lot of you! If you can''t do your jobs, I''ll find someone who can." I snapped Before they could respond, I felt another presence behind me. Turning. I saw my parents. My mother''s face was drawn with worry, while my father''s expression was stem. But their concern felt hollow, as if Martha''s death was merely an inconvenience. "Baby," my mother began, her tone soft. "You must take care of yourself. You''ve been through so much- "Don''t." I interrupted, my voice, icy. "Don''t pretend you care. You didn''t care when Alicia died. You didn''t care when Dominic humiliated me. And now you treat Martha''s death like it''s nothing more than the loss of a wild bird." My father bristled, his jaw tightening "Watch your tone. Ruby. We''re your parents." I met his re with one of my own. "Parents? The most useless ones I''ve ever known. Go back to Cami. She needs you more than I do." The words hung heavy in the air, my father''s face reddening with anger. But I didn''t care. I turned on my heel and walked past them, my mind set on finding answers for myself. Reaching Martha''s quarters, I unlocked the door with trembling hands and slipped inside. The room was as I remembered it: neat and unassuming But now, it felt hollow, like a shell of the woman who had once inhabited it I tore through her belongings, searching for anything that might exin what had happened. Drawers were emptied, linens tossed aside, and still......... nothing. Frustration gnawed at me as I stood in the center of the room, surrounded by chaos, Just as I turned to leave, something caught my attention. A faint shift beneath my feet. Frowning. I knelt and pressed against the floorboards, my fingers searching for the source of the movement. To my surprise, one of the tiles lifted, revealing a hiddenpartment beneath. Inside was a small, worn chest. My heart pounded as I lifted it out, the wood cool against my palms. The lock was simple, and it took little effort to open Within. I found a stack of yellowed letters tied with twine and an aged journal with a cracked leather cover. At first, it seemed ordinary, the kind of personal keepsakes anyone might have. But as I thumbed through the journal, a sense of unease crept over My hands trembled as I unfolded the first letter, the parchment crinkling beneath my touch. The words blurred before my eyes, but I forced myself to focus, to read. Each line was a dagger to my chest, slicing deeper with every revtion. The letters spoke of secrets, betrayals, and lies-a world I had never known existed within the walls of the Ravenhold Pack Sickened, I pushed the letters aside and reached for the journal, its cracked leather cover cold against my fingertips. Martha''s neat, deliberate handwriting filled the pages, and as I read, the words began to warp my reality ''Ruby, if you are reading this, I am gone. There is no easy way to tell you the truth I''ve hidden all these years. The people you call Mother and Father are not your real parents Your real parents were the former Alpha and Luna of Ravenhold, and they loved you more than life itself. But their love could not save them." My breath caught in my throat. I blinked, my mind reeling. Not my... real parents! The room seemed to tilt, and 1 gripped the edge of the desk to steady myself. I forced my eyes back to the page, desperate for answers. They were murdered, Ruby. Your parents-the true leaders of this pack-were betrayed. It was no ident, no rogue attack, as you were led to bchieve Nathaniel Lacienne, the man you call Father, orchestrated their deaths. He wanted the Alpha''s throne, and he was willing to kill for it. Trasped. My chea tightened as the words etched themselves into my memory. The journal continued, unraveling a web of treachery that spanned Martha, why did you keep this from me for long time? Why did you let him..... You were spared, Ruby, not out of mercy but out of greed. You were the legal heir to your parents'' wealth, and Nathaniel needed you alive to solidify his im I knew, Ruby I knew and I said nothing I am guilty of silence, of cowardice. But I could not let you live your life never knowing the truth. The words blurred as tears filled my eyes, dripping onto the page. My entire world had been a lie. The man who raised me, who imed to protect nie, had been the architect of my parents'' murder. The betrayal was so profound that it left me hollow, my heart shattering into pieces I couldn''t kather I mmed the journal shut, my hands trembling as I clutched it to my chest. Martha''s guilt, her silence, her love for me-it was all tangled together in a mess of emotions I couldn''t untangle. My breaths came in shallow gasps as the weight of the truth bore down on me. My parents. My real parents. Murdered. Nathaniel. A surge of anger flooded my veins, hot and uncontroble. I had to confront him. I had to know if it was true. But even as the rage consumed me, a small voice whispered in the back of my mind: What if it is true? What then? However, rather than that if it''s the truth. That means Cami is not my sister? AD Chapter 11-12 Killian''s POV The sharp crash of ss shattering out through the oppressive silence of of the dining room. All eyes turned to Cami, who swayed in her chair, her face pale as though she might faint at any moment. The scene that unfolded next was as predictable as it was tiresome. Dominic was the first to react, rushing to her side with a panicked urgency that bondered onical. My amusement deepened as Ruby''s parents followed suit, hovering over the delicate creature as though her copse might signal the end of the world. Ah something is happening here, I leaned back in my chair, watching the disy with barely concealed disdain. It was theater, nothing more, and I had little patience for such antics. When Dominic stammered out an excuse and requested permission to retire, I gave a dismissive noel, waving him away is one might a bothersome insect. Ruby''s parents followed shortly after, fussing over Cami as they escorted her out of the room. And just like that, it was the two of us. Well not entirely. The servants lingered at the edges of the room, silent and inconsequential. But who cares about the extras, I let my gaze settle on Ruby, taking in herposure. Or rather, herck of reaction. She remained seated, her expression unreadable, her posture rigid. There was no trace of concern for her sister, no flicker of emotion that might suggest she cared about what had just transpired. Intriguing. Well Luna, it seems we''ve been left to our own devices." Her eyes flicked to mine, the faintest glimmer of defiance in their depths. "It seems so, Your Majesty." I allowed myself a small smirk, leaning forward slightly. "Your sister''s condition appears.. precarious. Yet you seem entirely unconcerned. Why is that, I wonder?" She hesitated, the silence stretching between us as she carefully considered her response. Finally, she spoke, her voice measured. "Cami''s health has always been fragile. It''s nothing new. Shell recover, as she always dons." A lie. Or at least, not the entire truth. I tilted my head, studying her with the intensity of a predator circling its prey. "You''re quite certain of that," I said softly. "Yet your certainty feels more like resignation. Tell me, Ruby, is there more to this story than you''re willing to share Her hands tightened around the edges of the table, the only indication of her unease. "What do you mean, Your Majesty!" 1 smiled, leaning back and drumming my fingers lightly on the table. "Simply that I''ve seen a great many things, Luna, Lies. Betrayals, Secrets. They''re written on the faces of those who think they can hide them. And yours, dear Ruby, tells me there is far more beneath the surface than you''d care to admit." Her silence was telling. She didn''t attempt to deny it, which only piqued my curiosity further. This woman was a puzzle, her beauty andposure masking a storm of emotions and secrets that begged to be unraveled. 1 let out a sad sigh. "Really, it hurts me to see you being ignored by Alpha Dominic. Or maybe it''s just my misunderstanding?" Unfortunately, the woman no longer responded. Ruby''s silence grated against my patience as she quietly finished her dinner. When she finally met my gaze, she wore a mask ofposure so thin it was almostughable, I could see the strain in her eyes, the effort it took to maintain her fa?ade. for her induference or her She begged to leave after dinner, her voice polite but distant. She offered no answers to my questions, no exnations for he sister''s theatrics. It was as though I had been dismissed. Me. The Lycan King Anger simmered beneath my calm exterior, but I allowed her to go, waving her off with ack of my hand. She left the dining hall with that same forced grace, her back straight and her steps measured. It was an impressive act, but one I saw through all too easily. By the time I returned to my chambers, the anger I had kept at bay erupted like a storm. I swept my arm across the table, sending a decanter of wine and several crystal sses crashing to the floor. The sound was satisfying but not enough to quell the fury burning within me. How dare she ignore me? How dare she walk away as if I were no more than a passing inconvenience! "Beta" I growled. Leonidas entered momentster. He had served me long enough to know better than to ask questions when my temper was on edge. I turned to face him, my eyes burning with a heat I knew he felt Chaper 11 010 de Mi Tappening in this pork," Tondered, my snice low fat venuations. Every serper. Every lie. I want wit teluly "As youmand, my King. Is there a particr matter you wish uestion buddly, knowing full well the implications of his words. My He was no fool, he had seen my interest in study, my fixation i slir presented. When I didn''t respond immediately, he pressed further, his tone careful. Tes scourern Lana Ruby, perhapur narrowend my eyes, "What do you make of her rtionship with her Alpha Leonidas unhesitatingly replied and the revtion almost disgusted fr "Their bond is strained, to say the least," he replied. "The pack whispers of discord, particrly after the birth of their child. It seems the Alpha''s disappointment stems from the fact that Luna Ruby did not bear a son as her firstborn-a child to inherit the Alpha''s position. Such outdated exportations, but ones he appears in hold dearly" I chuckled darkly, the sound low and humorless. "Well, who would have thought that guy was a misogynist Leonidas observed me carefully, his hands sped behind his back. The Alpha''s content has not gone unnoticed, my King. It is said he is easily swayed by others. His loyalty to his Luna i- questionable at best" A slow smile spread across any face, cold and predatory, "Interesting. Very interesting And a realization hit me, aved the interaction carlier, between Cami and Dominic. Their parents. Did that mean th they were like I thought! Ruby''s Pov What does my existence mean in this life! Fate''s stoy or the punching bag of my karma in my ? past livest Even if it is, tell me what sins I havemitted in the past to deserve all this suffering I had juste out of the dining hall, escaping the clutches of the manor''s new resident, the cruel Lycan king. And still, my heart was set on ady younger than me, my sister. Or at least it was until the truth was legitimately confirmed. All those truths spilled out like a waterfall when I was just about to reach the door, with the kind intention of visiting Gamiffa who was pregnant. Pregnant with my Alpha. No matter how much my heart ached, no matter how broken. I hear them. That''s how my life an Ruby Lucienne is done. My heart is broken into pieces because of it. To my sister, my parents, and someone 1 love with all my life. Tears streamed down my cheeks, and 1 kept my hands to cover my mouth as much as possible so as not to let out a pitiful sob. "This is a disaster," Nathaniel hissed. "You and that fool Dominic couldn''t even keep your sordid rtionship a secret. Now there''s an undecided pregnancy to deal with. How do you think this looks, Cami?" My breath hitched, and I froze. Undecided pregnancy? My stomach churned as I pressed myself against the wall, straining to hear. "Don''t me me for this, Cami snapped. ¡°You were the one who insisted we y the perfect family. How was I supposed to know he''d get so careless?" "Careless Nathaniel''s w "Quiet, both of you!" I''s voice rose, but my mother quickly interjected. My eyes widened in shock as 1 recognized that familiar voice. Is that really mom''s voice? Is mom screaming violently! "Do you want the entire manor to heart! Or worse, the Lycan King? If he finds out what''s happening here, we''re as good as dead" A small memory of the story between the King''s rtionship with the previous Alpha floated in my mind. There was a heavy silence, broken only by Nathaniel''s growl. "Martha had to go. That woman knew too much. Do you think I wanted to kill her! But she was dangerous. She would have ruined everything. And now Ruby.." My heart stopped. My knees felt weak, and I gripped the doorframe for support. They had killed Martha'' "Ruby is already suspicious, Nathaniel continued. "If she finds out the truth, all of this is over. We need to act quickly, or everything-the treasures, the inheritance, the pack-everything will slip through our fingers. She''s the sole legal heir to my brother''s estate. You both know what needs to be done You mean, get rid of her Dominic''s voice was heshant. "Of course," Nathaniel snapped. "She''s a liability. The only reason she''s still alive is because we needed her to maintain control of the estate. But now, with the Lycan King sniffing around, we can''t afford her curiosity." "I''m tired of this," my mother''s voice broke in, weary and half-digusting, "I''ve had enough of ying the doting mother. Ruby''s insipid questions and her constant presence. Dominic can''t stand being with her, and frankly, neither can I. Let''s end this charade and be done with it." Cami also added, "I don''t want to anymore either, Mom. You didn''t see earlier that I was humiliated by that Lycan King! And why can''t you refuse his presence! The anger of Nathaniel, my fake father could be heard in his voice. "Be nice, Cami Lucienne. It''s fortunate that your fake sister was able to distract him. You have no idea what kind of things he''s capable of!" Mother''s voice interjected. "For now, we''ve agreed to keep poor Luna alive?" Dominic let out a mockingugh. "Three days is no big deal. I''ll still take care of Cami and anyway the Lycan king cares more about the relic than the pack''s internal rtions. You must recognize him well, right, father-inw?" Nathaniel sighed. "Yes and no. But, let''s think of the best murder n this time." "Please end this story with an epic. You should repay me after decades of having to face that woman!" cruelugh followed. I wasn''t sure e if it came from Dominic or Nathaniel, my fake mom or Cami, but it pierced me like an arrow. My entire body felt cold, and my vision blurred as tears filled my eyes. Their words were like daggers, cutting through any lingering illusions I had about the people I called family. My life, my existence, had been nothing more than a means to an end for them. Martha had died for their lies. My daughter my daughter had they killed my daughter too! I couldn''t think Couldn''t breathe. I stumbled back from the door, my hand mped over my mouth to stifle the sob threatening to break free. My legs felt weak, but I forced myself to move, to retreat before they discovered me. The corridor blurred around me as I fled, my heart pounding in my chest. Their words echoed in my mind, a cacophony of betrayal and cruelty My parents. My sister. Dominic. They had all conspired against me, and now they wanted me gone. Cone. I stumbled into a dark corner of the manor, copsing against the wall as the sobs overtook me. Tears streamed down my face, and my chest heaved with the weight of my despair. But as the tears subsided, another emotion rose within me, fierce and unrelenting Anger. I wiped my tears, my hands trembling but steadying as resolve took hold. I would uncover every secret they had buried. I would expose them for what they truly were. And I would make them pay for what they had done-to Martha, to my daughter, and to me. The game had changed, and this time, I wouldn''t be their pawn, In the midst of the storm of anger and hatred raging against me, I felt an aura that I recognized a little recently. My veins were throbbing, impatient kind of nonsense around me again. for any Get out or 171 kill you with my own ws." Shortly after, a blonde man with one eye patch appeared. I had already guessed the identity of the man. "Beta Leonidas, I presume?" dy blue eyes were icy cold and the man waspletely unfazed. My sincere regards to my dear Luna. Ruby Lucienne." let out a shortugh, amused by the way the had greeted me. pet dog is always good at copying its master. So tell me why are you stalking me. Beta Leonidas?" AD Chapter 13 Ruby''s POV Leonadas. I don''t have much information about this man. Yet, during the few social events I attended, he became the topic of conversation several times. Whether it was because of his loyalty prefer to call it the same taste for cruelty as his master), perfect body, or the aura of dominance that most she-wolves favored. Nevertheless, I knew one thing urately about him. Deadly intelligence. Of course, you would expect nothing less from a ri less from a right-hand man of a famous Immortal Lycan King in these five continents. The one and only. e, my blood boiled as I confronted him, the The one-eyed man stood before me, his posture rxed yet exuding an air of quiet menace. Therefore, my weight of recent betrayals still heavy on my heart. "I ask you once again why are you stalking me?" I demanded. "Orders." The simplicity of his response was like fuel to the fire. Of course, I knew who was giving those orders. This is my pack," I said firmly, stepping closer. "And as Luna, I will not tolerate such discourtesy. Every guest here-no matter their status-is expected to observe etiquette and respect the homeowner. Your King should know this better than anyone." Leonidas didn''t flinch. His expression remained as cold and unyielding as stone. "If your King has business with me." I continued, my anger building with every word, "he can confront me directly. I won''t tolerate being burdened by his games on my own territory. I''m sure the honorable Lycan King is well acquainted with chivalry." A for That was when heughed-a low, humorless chuckle that sent a chill down my spine. I froze, caught off guard by the sound. My anger wavered a moment, reced by confusion and a faint unease. "What''s so amusing?" I snapped. The sight of his amusement- of anyone from that twisted kingdomughing-was deeply unsenting Leonidas''s single eye gleamed with a dark humor as he spoke. "I can see why my King would be attracted to you" The words struck me like a blow, and my confusion turned to white-hot fury. "I am not a whore to be bought by anyone! I am Alpha Dominic''s wife." His smile widened, though it didn''t reach his eye. "Yes, I''ve heard all about that. Especially about how deeply devoted he is. About the child you lost, the betrayal by your own sister I growled, the sound raw and animalistic as I closed the distance between us in a sh. My strength surged, fueled by rage and indignation, and before he could react, I had my arm around his neck, holding him in a vise-like grip. "If you open your mouth about that again," I snarled into his ear, my voice low and deadly "I will rip it out." Leonidas didn''t struggle. He didn''t even flinch. Instead, be tilted his head slightly, his lips curving into that infuriating smirk "Touchy, aren''t we?" I tightened my hold, my heart hammering in my chest. What little courage I had was a little shaky but who cares what you face when your mind is filled with betrayal, pain, anger, and even death. This man came to me and who could refuse to make hins my punching bag for a moment. But that man will never be easily defeated in a game of physical or emotional violence. The evidence was in front of my eyes. "You have no idea what I''m capable of," I growled. "Oh, I have an idea," he rasped, his voice will maddeningly calm. "You''re every bit as fierce as they say. No wonder my King finds you so... fascinating" The mention of Killian only fueled my rage, but I forced myself to release him. Leonidas straightened, his smirk intact despite the reddened mark on his neck "Consider this your first and only warning" My blue eyes were as cold as my tome "Stay out of my way. And if your King wants something from the tell him toe himself Leonidas remained maddeninglyposed after I released him, the smirk never quite leaving his face "You know My King is very interested in you Really." 1 tumed sharply, my re cutting through the shadows like a de. Hatred burned in my chest as I fixed my gaze on him "Oh y Really"" I spat. Leonidas nodded entirely unfazed by my ire. "Not just interested," he added. "He wants you. Everything you have-your courage, your record as a great Luna, and, of course, your beauty. In all my years of serving him. I''ve never seen him pay such special attention to anyone." Iughed humorless. "Your King collects pets, Leonidas. I''m not naive enough to think I''d be anything more." Leonidas raised an eyebrow, "And yet you don''t consider using this opportunity. Surely, you''ve thought about it Revenge is within reach. Luna. Why not take 11" The suggestion made meugh again, though this time the bitterness gave way to genuine amusement. Revenge?" I said, shaking my head. "No, thank you. I''ve been hurt enough. I''m not interested in whatever twisted games your King wants to y." And then I considered my next words as well as the new ambition burning in my mind earlier. "If I want revenge. I''ll do it myself" Leonidas met my gaze, his single eye gleaming with an something that sent a thrill through me. An intentionality. Holy crap. With a mind that was no longer in sync with the heart, my body moved on its own. I reached out, tilting his chin upward with a single finger. Hisposure fallered just slightly, the barest flicker of surprise crossing his face. I savored that moment of vulnerability, a small victory. "You''re loyal to your King" I said softly, "but I can sense something else, Leonidas. A certain desire. He didn''t deny it. Instead, his smirk returned, and he leaned closer, his face mere inches from mine. The man''s warm breath brushed against my face and our eyes were all the more intense to stare at each other. "I''ve always been passionate about you. Ever since I was assigned to represent the kingdom at your pack''s events, you intrigued me." he confruned. His gaze dropped to my lips, his words bing a murmur. "More than intrigued. I''ve imagined.. but my loyalty lies with Killian Rudwick. And for that reason, I''ve always regretted having to forgo one woman-you-for my King." Iughed, the sound mocking and sharp. "Arrogance must be a trait you share with him." Wrapping my arms around his neck, I leaned in until our breaths mingled. "But tell me this," I whispered, my tone softening into a dangerous edge. "If it''s just a kiss, would that be a betrayal of your King?" Leonidas''s hands moved to my hips, his grip firm and sending shivers of how pleasant the touch was. Dominic never did that to me again. Never. His single eye gleamed with dark amusement as he answered. "No. It wouldn''t," 1 smiled, tilting my head slightly. "Then you should pay for all your disrespectful behavior tonight." My eyes lowered to his lips before returning to gaze into Leonidas'' eyes that turned a golden hue. "With a kiss." His smirk widened, and his grip tightened slightly. "I would be happy to oblige, Luna." Chapter 14 Beta Leonida took the offer very well His lys intet mine with a strength andmission that took my barathi away. For a smoment, I really liked it. Hiskin was consuming, overwhelming. mu intenuny, and for the fost imme in so long, Leht wanted. The lims grip of his hands around my waist calms me, but the kimi itself is When be finally pulled away, I realized I was trembling. My fingers bovered near my lips as if trying to understanal had just happened welled up in my eyes before I could stop them, melting shown my checks. Hone could I be so brokent So vulnerable? It was Leonidas who camel 1 this mess, but in that monum. I hated myself for the weakness, I lid shown. Leonidas seemed to understand without saying anything. His expression softened, as contrasted with the firm features carved into his cheekbones. He stepped back, giving me spur. 1 inhaled shakily, my voice barely audible as 1 broke the silence. "That was the first kiss I''ve had in a long time. My husband... he never... My throat tightened. I didn''t want to finish the thought, but I knew he understood. Leonidas looked at me intently, the look in his eyes judging. "You don''t need to exin what happened in your group." "I already know the outline. But..." He paused to give one understanding with just a look of his eyes. "Mayler it would help if you told me the details" I looked at him, my heart overwhelmed by a storm of emotions, Did I really want to open that wound? Toy lire the betrayal and cruelty that had shaped my existence? The thought made me hesitate, but the weight of it all pressed downt out me. Maybe it would help. Maybe it wouldn''t Finally, I nodded. "Alright. But don''t think for a second that this will change anything." Leonidas tilted his head, waiting silently as I gathered my thoughts. Then I began, telling him everything-my daughter''s death, Dominic''s affair with Cami, my parents ns, and Martha''s mumder. My woler wavered at times, but I forced myself to continue, determissed to get it allout, When I finished. I felt drained, as if the story had stolen thest of my strength. Leonidas listened without interruption, his expression unreable. When I finally fell silent, he leaned against the wall, crossing his arms. "And yet, you have not asked for the King''s favor. You know my King is capable of granting anything" The man waved a hand when I wanted to interrupt. "You''ve heard his linle story about the Lycan King''s good rtionship with this old Alpha Pack. Why not take up the offer as I suggested!" I stared at him, my tiredness reced with overwhelming agitation. "How could ''Oh, great Lycan King, please grant me revenge and destroy my family! Nothing in this lifees without a price, Beta Leonidas" His smirk returned, though it wasn''t as usual. ¡°And if that price is spectacr revenge and living under the protection of a King? Why not?" "You talk as though you''re talking about morning and night, and how the weather is today, just be reasonable?" I said, my voice rising without me realizing it I''m not stupid. I''ve realized a few things since the Lycan King''s loyal Beta gave me advice. A life under the protection of Killian Hudwick; the idea was both tempting and terrifying. I had always prided myself on my independence, my strength. But now, with my world crumbling around me. the thought of having someone-anyone-on my side was almost too alluring to ignore. Other than that, Leonidas'' words stuck in my mind like a thom that I couldn''t pull out. There was something about the way he pushed me towards the Lycan King that didn''t sit right. Why was he so insistem? If his interest in me was pure, even if only for a fleeting and carnal affair, why was he so determined to bring me into Killian''s orbit? I did not ask. I would not give him the satisfaction of knowing how much his words shook me. I preferred to discover the truth on my own terms, without relying on his vague half-truths and calcting maniptions. Leonidas seemed to realize my unease. He stood up, his posture rigid and his eyes piercing as always as he watched my every move. "We still have two more days here," he said, breaking the silence. "Think about it. You''re under no obligation to decide now. I crossed my armis, arms, squinting up at him. "And what about your king. Is he the patient type?" Leonidas grinned, the corners of his mouth twitching upwards. "Not particrly. He''s already displeased with your fake father and Alpha Dominic for them insolence. Refusing his request is not a wise act" My stomach churned. His words brought back memories of the conversation I''d overheard earlier, Nathaniel and Dominic''s a arrogance in defying the Lycan King Til heard them mention the Ravenhold heirloom, a part of my pack''s history that I knew little about. But I doubted it was true because they also mentioned other heirlooms but falsified them as family heirlooms. That was probably so that Kin would forget about the unter and not demand the heirloom he thought was useful. That was another truth that was hidden from me. As Luna, I should know such things, but it seemed my title meant nothing to those who imed to respect me. I clenched my fists, swallowing the anger that rose in my throat. "I''ll think about it." Leonidas tilted his head, his one eye glittering with amusement. "That''s all anyone can ask for, isn''t it?" We fell into a heavy silence, but afterward, to my surprise, Leonidasughed. It was a low, rich h sound that sent chills down my spine. He shook his head as if in disbelief. "What''s so fu so funny!" 1 fumed. He mumbled something under his breath, too low for me to catch. When I frowned, he chuckled again and spoke louder. "TI likely die for daring to touch my King''s property?" His words made me frown hard at what he meant, but before I could answer, he closed the distance between us in one step. His hands framed my face, and then his lips were on mine, fierce and unrelenting. The kiss steals my breath, leaving me dazed and struggling toprehend what''s going on. For a moment, I didn''t resist-couldn''t resist. The feeling was overwhelming. Dominic couldn''t do this to me. Never again since I failed to give him a son. And the new betrayal I discovered from him gave me the decision that any rtionship between us was indeed over. Leonidas was an good kisser, Ruby wondered how many lips he had tasted. Ruby gave herself up when those lips demanded surrender. When he finally pulled away, his lips kissed my ear as he whispered, "Goodbye, Luna. It was sweeter than I imagined Heat flooded my f face as his words registered. I pushed him away. "You bastard... Leave!" Leonidas just smirked, his grin as annoying as ever. "I''ve been called worse. Heat flooded my face as his words registered, I pushed him away. "You bastard. Get lost!" Leonidas just smiled, his grin as annoying as ever. "I''ve been called worse I red at him, my heart still racing. Without another word, I turned around and hurried away, hisughter following me like a shadow Meanwhile, the man had disappeared into the darkness, I think I''ve made up to my mind. Chapter 15 Morning sunlight filtered through the thick curtains, casting golden streaks across the room. I sat by the window, my chair tilted back slightly as I puffed on wisps of smoke from my cigar. A rich, earthy aroma filled the air, mingling with the faint scent of leather and wood that always seemed to linger in this ce. My shirt was open at the chest, its thin fabric uncovered and revealing the stars etched into my skin-marks of battles won and lost, a testament to the centuries. I had lived The rage that had burned through me the night before finally subsided, leaving only a burning frustration. My thoughts continued to be on her. Ruby Lucienne. That woman had taken up too much space in my mind. I wasn''t usually so preupied, yet here I was, repeating every word she said, every defunt look she gave me. A lot of women havee and gone. They would taste sweet but then be tasteless. Theycked and were hard to remember for me. There was no impression. But that woman was different. What was wrong here? This was beyond my control and 1 hated it every time. With a flick of my wrist, I tapped the cigar ash into the tray and gestured towards the door. "Get Leonidas," I told the guard outside. The man nodded, then disappeared down the hallway. A few momentster, Leonidas entered. His demeanor was as calm and quiet as ever, though I could see a faint tension in his shoulder-s-a realization of how much I had almost lost my temper the night before. He bowed slightly before taking a position near the center of the room. "Report" 1 ordered. Leonidas straightened his body. "As expected, Nathaniel''s schemes run deep. He has been consolidating power and wealth for years, using Ruby as a pawn to maintain control." My eyebrows raised as I heard the words slide into my ears. Leonidas continued, "Dominic is involved, though his loyalties oscite between greed and ipetence. The pack''s heirlooms remain in their hands, but are closely guarded. They are fully aware of how much you are interested and know you will not retreat." ¡°So, is this answering my question all along?" "Yes, Your Majesty I smoked the cigar, the me at the end smoldering. Only a fool could not discern how simr the woman was to the pack''s previous phenomenal panner. The glory of the Ravenhold Pack had begun to regress ever since losing the lead mate. Their death is a mystery and a loss to me. The previous alpha was so good that Killian was always between wanting to use him but still wanting to be something called a friend. The only thing keeping this pack from falling in the mud is because of Ruby Lucienne. Or should I say their daughter? Her resemnce to her mother is striking, especially Ruby''s beauty extends even beyond her mother. There was a strength in her that transcended her physique, a toughness that drew me in. She was a challenge, and I... I was a man who liked challenges. Killian looked at the green ground beyond. It was not unusual for family members to kill each other for high positions in the pack. But for Nathaniel in particr, the man had lost half of his brain. He''d forgotten the position that he was only a adopted son in Lucienne''s extended family. Such a shame. I leaned back in my chair, considering predictable at this point. ring his words. All right, I told myself, dd myself, there was nothing surprising. Nathaniel''s next betrayal was almost "And the woman!" 1 asked, my tone calmer. "Her inental state?¡± Leonidas hesitated for a moment. "She is fragile but resilient. The betrayal she experienced has caught her off guard, but there is strength beneath the surface. She.... may be what you expected, Your Majesty ker woman would have been I exhaled another plume of smoke, the corners of my mouth tugging into a faint smirk. Of course she wasn''t. A weaker woman boken right now, but not Ruby. That stubbornness, her spirit... only made me want her more. "Do you think she''lle to me?" asked Leonidas nodded without hesitation. "Yes, he''s wary, but he''s also pragmatic. He knows you are his best option." Tallowed myself ate sense of satisfaction. "Cood. There''s still two days left. Let here to me on her own? The silence that followed was filled with unspoken thons. Once again, Nathaniel''s actions disgusted me, although I can''t say that I was surprised Betrayal was anguage he knew well. kurw I let the cigar vest on the edge of the tray, my gaze murning to the window. The day stretched out before me, and i found myself almost impatiently moment when she would walk through the door of this room, her spirit and spirit of resistance zing Two days. That was all I had to wall. "Are you staying silent, Your Majesty My red eyes shifted slightly towards my loyal Reta. "Are you giving me advice to approach that woman right now? That''s of delicate, Leonidas "Forgive me, Your Majesty," he paused. "I meant to say thatfort in the midst of her inner turmoil is a good thing right now? "Indeed." But I actually had a better idea. "It''s simply that, Leonidas. You''re forgetting someone who is mentally unstable and down is an easy condition to control" The corners of my lips formed a fake charming simile and surely Leonidas recognized it. "It will be easy to manipte her to my will. You get what my point is, don''t you?" "Yes, Your Majesty Patience is a virtur il you w want to get the best n reward. And I''m renowned for it. I''ll bet half of my wealth if this gambit loses. The woman wille. I''m sure of it. I can''t wait for her to kneel at my feet. It''ll be so pretty. Suddenly the sound of the door opening and the polite request of a guard echoed, I ordered him in to give him permission. The next words he said 1 made my chest expand in satisfaction. "Your Majesty." He bowed respectfully. "Luna Ruby stated her wish to see you." Chapter 16 s firm until Dominic entered the room. It was the first time he had set foot in our abode since the incident, and his presence made me sick to my stomach. He stood in the doorway, his expression twisted into a pitiful mockery of guilt. "Ruby," he began almost pleading. "I need to talk to you." I didn''t answer, didn''t even look at him. My hands clenched on the edge of the dresser as I stared into the mirror, refusing to let him see how his presence affected me. He stepped closer. "Please, Ruby. I know I''ve made a mistake, but I need you by my side. For the sake of this park- It worked. I turned to face her, my chest pounding with anger. "For the sake of the pack?" I echoed, my voice dripping with venom, "Don''t it you dare use that as an excuse. You betrayed me, Dominic. You betrayed the pack. And now you dare stand there and begging for me to support you" Oh my, whats about the topic''s support. Dominic! Your affair?" It''s disgusting to see this man say that and dare to stand in front of me. And he said it was for this pack? What part of the affair was one of the ways for this pack? The memories of him with my fake family made my veins throb and the mes of anger gripped demanding vengeance. His face changed, a mixture of guilt and frustration. "It was a mistake. But you''re the one I want by my side. You are my Luna." Dominic sighed. "I didn''t want this to happen either, but the elders wanted a son, Ruby. Please understand. You are still Luna here and my wife. your sister is just a temporary recement." It was fantastic. This guy w would be a famous actor if he started his career as a celebrity and won various awards for his acting. Iughed bitterly, the sound a mixture of anger and pain. "Your Luna? Since when! Since you decided to sleep with my sister! Since you defended her while I was left humiliated! You don''t want me, Dominic. You want my image. Myfort" The guilt in her eyes turn turned to anger. "Don''t make this harder than it has to be, Ruby" OH wow. That fast he lost control. I take back my earlier words that he''s the best actor. But I don''t me him when what I threw at him was a fact. Someone is easily offended when fed facts and men with high egos are prone to heart disease when their egos are kicked by women who are higher than them. "In case you forgot you''re the one making this difficult," I made my face as hard as my heart. "You did my violence and you know what? Who healed the wounds on my face! Ob, no need to not know. I''m afraid that I''ll hurt your ego-" "RUBY"" His high tone rang through all corner of our room. I just looked at the man I used to love with a straight face and didn''t blink. "What''s wrong'' Did it touch some of those inferior veins of yours!" I let out a shortugh at Domunic''s expression. "Do you know how hard you''ve made my life! You and Cape, and your pathetic lies? You''ve runed everything, Dominic. Especially with your Hy hand moved before I could react. The p echoed in the room, sharp and stinging. Exactly the same as what happened that morning. My head jolted to the side, and for a moment, I was too stunned to speak. My checks stung, but the pain was nothingpared to the betrayal churning in iny chest Those tears running down my checks represented how fertile the newly grown hatred inside me was. I was not good at hatred but for this, for them. I would be able to do i For my poor lite daughter, my dear Martha, this pack, and my pride! You can''t talk to me like that," he hissed dangerously. "You are still my wife. You are still my Luna. Show Anger boiled over, but before I could awer, he pushes me backward. My foot caught on the edge of the carpet, and I tripped over a vase of flowers. The vase shatters under my weight, the shunds bating into my skin as I hit the floor. stishover 1 gasped pain rachating down my back and arms. Domine stol aner me, his expression cold and expressionless, "You''re pathetic" he sneered. "No wonder Canu was the better choice" His eyes rolled disdainfully in front of me, spat, "She understands me and this group very well. She even made the choice to go into seclusion after sessfully giving this group a son. A brilliant heir for the pack. And your That a loss for words for you." he said. Whilebing his hair in frustration, the man named to me and approached me while pointing at me with his boot, as if telling me to remain standing apany Cami tonight. Mand your behavior and don''t make our guests specte badly. Do you understand?" I didn''t make a sound. My tears welled up and made Damien kick me in the kee "Are you deaf" My hands gripped the sides of my dress and 1 still didn''t choose to answer. My body shook violently. "Damn. What a shitty wife!" And then he was gone, leaving me on the floor surrounded by broken porcin and shattered pride. Tears blurred my vision as I struggled to stand. my body trembling with pain and anger. Here it is. The moment my resolve hardened into something unshakable. How dare he... how dare le after all the things he did to me!! Alright, my thoughts. If life is the price to pay for Killian''s favor, then so be it. I will pay it. No, I''ll sell Myself And that''s how I ended up in the Great Lycan King''s chambers this time. When I was allowed to meet him. A charming smile was the first thing that greeted me. "Hello, Luna May I ask the purpose of your arrival on this fine morning!" Chapter 17 The door closed behind me with a resonating thud, sealing me inside the Great Lycan King''s chambers. My heart pounded as Estepped forward, the sound of my footsteps swallowed by the heavy silence. The air felt thick with his presence, an almost tangible weight pressing down on me as I approached. Killian Rudwick stood by the far window, his back to me. His broad shoulders and tall frame formed amanding silhouetie in the morning light. As he turned around, breath caught in his throat. Her bloodshot eyes glowed faintly, their intensity piercing and ready to devour anyone. His face, with its sharp lines and striking symmetry, was the kind of perfection that seemed almost cruel. The open cor of his shirt revealed a hint of the power beneath-a scarred and chiseled chest that suggested a hard-won battle. An aura of authority surrounded him, gold and unyielding, yer incredibly attractive. He was the definition of death itself. "Luna Ruby. Sit here." he ordered. He gestured to the chair in front of him. I hesitated, my pulse quickening "No. Your Majesty," I replied, my voice shaking slightly despite my best efforts. "It is not appropriate for me to sit. Not when my purpose here is far from noble." He raised an eyebrow, his expression unreadable. "Not noble? How curious." I swallowed hard, his words prating my resolve. She already knew. Of course he knew. There was nothing to hide from a man like Killian Rudwick. Mustering what little courage I had left, I knelt before him, my hands sped tightly in front of me. "Your Majesty" I began, my lips trembling "1. I havee to beg for your help. His gaze still contained the same intensity. "Speak" The dam broke, and the words rushed out of me. "My daughter, I choked out, tears streaming down my face. "She is gone. Taken from me too soon. And then Martha.. my loyal servant, my confidant, murdered because she knew too much. And my husband... My voice trailed off as memories of Dominic and Cami''s betrayal wed ar my mind. "My alpha betrayed me, I continued, bitterness seeping into my tone. "He chose my sister, his mistress, over Luna. And now she''s carrying his child while I..." I trailed off, shaking my head. "It doesn''t end there. My parents, the ones who me, nned to kill me. They tried. And all because of LL "Take it easy, Luna. I''m always listening for you." 1. d. "Just tell me, why and what motive did they hey have tomit such a betraya My body stiffened and I tried to stay calm. Then, Killian continued, "Just I stared at him, the words catching in my throat. He towered over me, his crimson eyes boring into me, demanding that I reveal all honesty. My hands trembled as I spoke the words that had haunted me since I found her. "Because I am not their daughter." It was a pathetic fact that I didn''t want to reveal considering how much I loved them even still remained in my heart "...I am the daughter of the previous Alplu. Your friend. The one who died under mysterious circumstances," I continued with overwhelming sadness. His expression darkened, a glimpse of something unreadable shed across his face. "Dorian Lucienne." The name was like a ghost in the air. I nodded, the weight of my confession crushing me. 1 They killed him. My father. And my mother. And they y let me live only to use me as a pawn, to take wealth and power that didn''t belong to them¡± Tears flowed faster, my voice breaking with my despair. "I want revenge." I said, my words shaky but firm. "For my daughter. For Martha. For myself. They''ve taken everything from me, and I...I can''t fight Killian was silent for a few moments, his gaze never leaving my eyes. His presence was overwhelming, and I felt small and exposed under his scrutiny. But I didn''t look away. I couldn''t. My entire being wasid bare before him, and for the first time in what felt like forever, I didn''t feel ashamed of my brokenne Killian''s crimson eyes burned with great intensity as he spoke, his voice carrying a cold, authoritarian tone that sent chills down my spine. "Texpected this" There was a hint of disgust circling his lips. "You don''t resemble Nathaniel or his wife at all. You, my Luna. You are a Lucienne in every them." way. Not like I flinched at the disgust in his voice, but I said nothing. His words were the truth, and the truth is often more piercing than bes. He ced his cigar in the gilded ashtray and stepped towards me. My breath caught as he closed the distance, his body again looming over me. When his hand reached out and tilted my chin up, forcing me to meet his gaze, I feltpletely exposed. His touch was so gentle, in contrast to what was hidden beneath hisyers of skin. "I can give you your revenge," he sings more softly as he caresses my chin. "Spectacr revenge. I can break them, crush them, make them kneel before you. And I will support you as you rebuild what they tried to steal from you. There is nothing I cannot aplish." Tears welled up in my eyes, spilling over as his words sunk in. "I... I would do anything for that "Anything I nodded, unable to speak through the lump in my throat. My heart raced as his gaze searched me, unrelenting His grin widened into a cruel grin. "The price is cheap, my dear Lun." I could feel the weight of the price he would prepare for me and I felt like sealing the decision with the demon That is the entire herd. Ravenhold will be under my control. And you, Luna Ruby... you will be mine." The room seemed to tilt, her words echoing around me like bell. Being his? Why should I be surprised? That was exactly what Leonidas said. But still, the thought sent a wave of conflicting emotions crashing pull. Bound forever to this most dangerous of men, it meant my life was bought.. Z over me. Fear. Anger. A strange, undeniable Kin doesn''t give me time to respond. He pulled me to my feet with a force that left no room for resistance, his hand still under my chin as he brought my face inches from his. His unirk deepened, his breath warm on my lips. "Time to seal the deal," he murmured. And then his lips pressed against mine. It was unlike any kiss I''d ever experienced-possessive,manding, and filled with an intensity that stole the breath from my lungs. It was as if he was staking his im, marking me as his own. My hands instinctively gripped his arms, usure whether to push him away or pull him closer The sheer force of the moment overwhelmed me, making my entire body tremble When he finally broke the kiss, his eyes met mine, a dark triumphi glearning in their crimson depths. Killian Hudwich dered like a velvet growl "Now, there is no turning back" Chapter 18 I watched her, trembling and beautiful, as she knelt before me. Her eyes, still wet with tears, told a story of desperation and determination for revenge. She was remarkable, a woman who had sold herself to me for revenge. Yet, even while kneeling, she exuded a quiet strength that intrigued me more than I cared to admit. Or actually, more urately a goddess who is willing to kneel before a demon. It was a suitable hyperbole. My hand rested on her face, my thumb brushing the soft curve of her clicek. She gasped but didn''t pull away. Her skin felt warm under my touch, and her lips... her lips were a temptation I could barely resist. "You already know the truth, don''t you?" I purred, our breath blending together. "About your so-called family." The words struck her like a blow, and she winced. I could see the conflict in her eyes, the pain of hearing me call them what they were: fake "Tell me, Ruby." I continued, my thumb brushing the edge of her trembling lips. "How did you learn of their cries!" She hesitated, her voice faltering as she began to speak. "I found a letter." THm... Continue." My thumb swiped over her lower lip again, savoring the way she breathed. "Martha... she hid it. She knew everything. About my parents, about their betrayal... about me." Her voice cracked, but she continued. They killed my birth parents. They''ve used me all this time as a pawn, a tool to gain power that doesn''t belong to them." I tilted her chin up, forcing her to look at me. Her tears reflected the light, and I saw the fire that burned beneath her sadness. She wanted revenge, and she hade to the right ce. Oh she was being so honest. "And what do you n to do now? Now that you know the truth!" Her breath hitched. L. I want them to pay as I asked you, Your Majesty." The beauuful lips trembled. "For my daughter. For Martha. For myself." A smile slowly spread across my lips. "Revenge is a powerful motivator, Ruby." 1 Jet my thumb trace the line of her lips again and almost want to groan at the taste. "And revenge is a heavy burden to bear," I murmured, "but I can bear it for you. I can give you everything you want. All you have to do is surrender yourself to me." She didn''t look away, her resolve growing stronger under my gaze. "Please leave me in no doubt, Your Majesty, I will pay for it. Whatever it takes." "My dear, I didn''t mean to. I just wanted to make sure of one thing." I said half- teasing her. "Am I clear to you!" I let the silence stretch out as I asked the question, watching her struggling with her decision. When she finally nodded. I felt a wave of satisfaction. But before I could savor her resignation, Ruby reached out and caught my hand, her grip surprisingly firm. Her eyes looked at me with a questioning glint. "Your Highness. Do you want the heirloom?" Ruby asked cautiously. I blinked, her question surprising me. I didn''t think she would know that right away considering it was my conversation with Nathaniel. But of course, the old man had a mouth as wide as a bucket "And what will you do, my little Luna?" "I will give it to you," she said simply, "Soon" A grin spread across my face, sharp and wollish. How unexpected, how glorious. I let my fingers trace his cheek, my lips brushing his temple as I space. "How honorable are are my new I lover''s intentions," I murmured, savoring ing the words on my tongue. "I will cherish it." She trembled under my touch, but she still did not resist, I leaned back slightly, admiring the fire in her eyes. Ruby Lucienne was proving far more interesting than I had anticipated, and I couldn''t wait to see how this game would y out. I don''t n to let Ruby go anytime soon. The thought of her leaving my side irritated me, but I understood her needs. Her sudden absence from her family would raise questions, arouse suspicion, andplicate matters before I was ready to act. Still, the idea of sending her back to the people who had wronged her left a bitter taste in my mouth. I didn''t understand why. Maybe it was just a matter of profit and loss. Ruby looked confused, her emotions swirling in her eyes as she stood before me. Unsure and vulnerable. The hesitation was understandable, given the storm he had been through. After all, I was a good Lycan King-at least by my own standards. She needed reassurance, and I was more than willing to provide it. Humming softly, I reached out to her, pulling her into my arms. Her body tensed for a moment before melting against mine, her head resting on my chest. I stroked her golden mane, her silky hair slipping through my fingers. "I''d love nothing more than for you to stay here." My lips touched her temple. "But we can''t have your family growing suspicious, can we?" The heartbroken Luna nodded slightly, her silence speaking volumes. I kissed the top of her head, savoring the subtle scent that clung to her. There was a purity in her, a pristine essence that awakened something primal in me. I loosened my embrace, only to tilt her chin up, forcing her to meet my gaze. Before she could say a word, I grabbed her lips in a searing kiss. Her surprise was delicious, the soft gasp that came out of her mouth made me feel good. I deepened the kiss, my teeth brushing her bottom lip before sucking on it, feeling her submission. She moaned softly, her voice echoing between us, and I felt her body yield to mine. For a brief, electrifying moment, she was entirely mine. When I finally pulled away, her lips were swollen and glistening, her cheeks flushed like sweet berries I nted a long kiss on her cheek, savoring the beat of her skin under my lips. "See you soon, lover," I whispered. Letting go was harder than anticipated. As she stepped away, I felt an aching, almost unbearable pull to stay with her. After all, I had just imed her. She was mine now, and the thought of sending her back into the clutches of those who had betrayed her gnawed at me. But patience is a vinue, and this was a game I intended to win. 1 was good at it As soon as the door closed behind the Luna, I sighed and reached for a cigar. Lighting it with ease, I took a slow drag, the familiar burn grounding me. The smoke billowedzily around me as I leaned on the edge of the table, running a hand through my hair. No regrets. I came to the Ravenhold Pack for such a peity reason beforepared to what I found this time. Ruby Lucienne was a gift, which I didn''t expect but I intend to keep (chain her for a lifetime). A smile slowly spread across my lips as I exhaled a plume of smoke. Well, this visit had proven to be far more rewarding than I could have imagined. Chapter 19 1 mmed the door behind me. locking it with shaking hands. My chest pounded as I tried to calm the storm raging inside me: The memory of Killian-his touch, his voice, his kiss-lingered like a brand. My fingers brushed my lips that were still swollen from his kiss, and I felt a shiver. That was it. The moment I sealed the deal, the moment I sold myself to the Lycan King. 1 had made my choice. There was no turning back now. Revenge is my goal, my only reason to endure the pain and humiliation. I will live for it. And if I had to sell my soul to achieve it, so be it. I closed my eyes, clutching my hands to my chest. "Would you hate me, my sweet Alicia?" I thought my daughter''s innocent smile, the light she brought into my life, and the sobs wing at my throat, "Would you be disgusted with your mother for what I''ve done, my child!" Martha''s face appeared in my mind, her kind eyes and unwavering loyalty. Would she judge me for this decision? And my biological parents, the ones I barely remembered but were still connected to my heart what would they think of me now? Tears spilled down my cheeks, and I wiped them away furiously. This was no time to be weak. I had to stay focused. My revenge would not wait, and neither would the traitors who walked these hall. Steeling myself. I stood up and straightened my clothes. The first step was to face her. Cami. My fake little sister. I walked towards her quarters. When I reached the door, I paused for a moment, molding my face into a detached expression of serenity. I knocked once and entered without waiting for an invitation. Cami was reclining in an easy chair, her hands resting on her bulging belly. She looked up, surprised by my arrival. "Sister Ruby... I approached her slowly, my face putting on a neutral face. "I came to check on you. You and the baby" Her expression changed, guilt showing in her eyes. "I... thank you. That''s very kind of you I said nothing, just watched her as she sat down. She looked fragile, and for a moment, 1 was reminded of the bond we once had. However, the thought of her betrayal extinguished any remaining affection. She wasn''t my sister. "Sister" She began hesitantly, her hands wringing in herp. "I have to say... I''m sorry. For everything. For what I''ve done to you. I never meant for it to happen like this." Cami''s apology meant nothing to me, yet I forced myself to nod, pretending to ept. "Go on She lowered her gaze. "I love Dominic," she admitted. "And I love this baby. I know this doesn''t excuse what I''ve done, but I can''t regret it. Not when it gives me She ced her hands on her stomach, her lips curving into a faint smile. Hatred smoldered silently inside me, a fire that threatened to consume me entirely. I wanted to scream, to attack, to destroy everything she held. dear. But I didn''t. Instead, I nodded again, my face saying nothing. "I understand," I said quietly, "I hope you find happiness in what you have chosen, Cami" Her eyes widened slightly, as if she hadn''t expected me to say such a thing. "Ruby, 1 "Rest Ic I cut in, standing up. "You and the baby need it." "Do you hate me?" she asked hurriedly Pausing for a momen, I turned my head slightly toward her. ael & n I walked away and left the room. My hands clenched into fists as I walked away, my nails digging into my palms. You will pay, Cami. All of you will payr The burning anger threatened to consume me, but I knew better than to let it. Pausing by the wall, I pressed my trembling hands against the cold stone, taking deep breaths to calm myself. This wasn''t the time to lose control. I have a promise to fulfill The words of my promise to the king rang in my mind as I straightened and adjusted my clothes. The heirloom that the man wanted would be gotten and whatever it was, it was the king''s business. I didn''t care. All that mattered was proving my loyalty andpleting this task. The Lucienne family vault was a great ce to start. I navigated the dimly lit corridors carefully, keeping my steps natural. The vault was heavily guarded, as expected. Two men stood guard, their expressions bored but alert. Taking a deep breath, 1 approached confidently, chin raised. "Gentlemen." I greeted with an aura of authority. "Alpha Dominic requested that I retrieve something from the yult. It''s urgent business. Please step aside." The guards exchanged wary nces. "We are not allowed to let anyone in without direct permission from the Alpha," one of them said, his tone apologetic. I squinted, summoning the haughty demeanor Dominic often disyed. "Are yo you questioning Luna''s orders!" "Do you think I''d w I waste my time on petty petty tasks? Step aside, or I''ll make sure the Alpha knows of your insubordination!" I shouted. The bluff worked. They reluctantly stepped aside. I stepped past them wordlessly, my heart pounding as I reached the heavy vault door. The lock wasplicated, but I''d seen it opened enough times to mimic the sequence. With onest twist, the mechanism clicked, and the door creaked open, revealing the treasure inside. Inside, rows of shelves stretched out before me, eachden with artifacts, relics, and heirlooms. The faint golden glow of the magical objects bathed the room in an eerie light. My heart felt tight at the sheer number of objects. How was I supposed to know which ones the King wanted I was a fool not to ask first. I moved carefully between the shelves, my fingers running over the polished surfaces of the various artifacts. Each object had a namete, the writing faded but still legible. Some objects looked ancient and powerful; others looked ordinary. My frustration peaked as I explored Plugins 1 further. There were too many, and none of them stood out as I might have imagined. Nothing specific. I considered taking something at random, but I hesitated. If I brought the wrong thing, it right undo everything I had worked for. An idea struck me at that moment. Why not bring Killian here? Let him choose for himself. It would be a sign of trust and proof of my loyalty. It was as if I didn''t care about this relic anymore. It was a symbol of a family that had betrayed me, nothing more. With that decision, I turned around and quietly slipped out of the vault. The guards barely nced at me as 1 passed, and their disinterest is a blessing. I hurried down the corridor, fixing my clothes and straightening my hair. My mind raced with thoughts of how to tell Killian this, the right words to say to solidify my position in his favor. Chapter 20 Meeting Leonidas so soon was not part of my n. Not after the kiss we shared. I had no intention of keeping it as a cherished memory-far from it. I had bound myself to Killian Rudwick, and I was not about to jeopardize my position, nor Leonidas. Still, the reminder of that forbidden moment made my heart lurch. Thankfully, Leonidas was behaving like the sharp-tongued Beta I hade to know or in short, the Sassy Beta with a lot of charm. He didn''t bring upst night, and for that, I was grateful. There was an amused twinkle in that single uncovered eye and the vein in my temple twitched in annoyance. I looked up at him, keeping my expression calm. "I''m sure if I give you an answer to your question, then you''re thinking in two ways. So, the answer is yes and no." I could see the amusement in his raised eyebrows. Resisting the urge to roll my eyes, I added, "And thank you, Leonidas, for your advice" His thin grin was irritating. "I knew you would take it." "You''ve already earned some of the Lycan King''s favor. There''s no need to fear those who would try to Then, with a slight tilt of his head, he added, "You" push you into hell again." 1 stiffened at Beta Leonidas words, I didn''t expect that kind of thing to be heard by me this early. Before I could reply, he leaned in slightly, his tone turning softer and dangerous. "The king does not ept anyone who touches what belongs s to him" The veiled warning was clear, and I nodded slowly. Although I was only a woman who had just been bought, at least this was a little better. Being the favorite of a King. That didn''t sound terrible at all inparison to being killed ridiculously at the hands of a fake family. I didn''t know what my future fate would be like after that revenge, but one thing was certain: I wanted to strengthen my position at the King''s side. With that my life was safe. As Leonidas turned to leave, he patted my shoulder gently. "Congrattions on your rebirth, Luna," he said over his shoulder. Iughed, unable to help myself, and looked at his retreating figure. Rebirth. Yes, that''s what rebirth is-a transformation from a woman who was once fooled and deceived into someone who will never be manipted again. The dining hall bustled with activity as I approached, the aroma of grilled meat and warm bread wafting out to greet me. I ignored the guards who bowed and greeted me as I walked by. Although I could stillugh and hold up hay face with the authoritative posture of Luna, my heart was broken irreparably The smell of the meat instantly triggered memories of Alicia, my beloved daughter. She loved the grilled meat and the dessert, strawberry pudding or sometimes fresh fruit pieces. Usually at this time of the day, my daughter would whine for pudding first before eating the main course. 1, on the other hand, try to persuade her to be a good girl and follow the rules of eating. Sometimes I would get a little grumpy and end up being lulled by her puppy dog cycs. "Mom, I don''t like vegetables. Can''t it be reced by pudding?" "No, my dear. Vegetables are good for you! "But I''m a she-wolf! I don''t need vegetables, I need meat "Indeed. But sweetheart, vegetables are good for the kids Til eat them if I get double pudding!" closing my eyes for a while, I let out a shaky breath. I hurriedly buried the memory as deep as possible. My eyes were already starting to heat up Noj don''t cry. Alicia would be sad to see her mother crying all the time. Halfway across the ce, I paused for a moment. Dominic and Cami were in front, walking together. Dominic''s hand rested on Cami''s arm, guiding her with a gentleness that made my stomach twist. Seeing them together, so happy without realizing the mess they caused, ignited the mes of my anger. - Cami was the first to see me, her expression flickering with something Trouble''t guess. Hored a pr nod, refusing to let my gare fall on Dominic. I had no time for him. He wasn''t worth the effort "Ruby," nay Eather scolded, walking towards me from the opposite direction. "That was ride. You should treat your sister with respect," Lalways do," I replied firmaly. I gave my fake sister a brief nce, then numest back to my asshole fake dad. "You don''t have to worry, father" Iwas about to move away from the horde of pests only to be stopped by my father''s shout. "Do you dare turn your back on your family! Tus is not done yet Mom stapped, "Honey, stop scolding Ruby. We''re almostte for the feast hall now. We have to greet the Lycan King before he arrives first!" "I''m teaching my uneducated daughter a lesson! She d''t even visit her sick sister!" Nathaniel eximed angrily. I turned to face him, carefully setting my face into a mask of calm. "I already saw her this morning." I replied. Before Nathaniel could press further, Cami stepped in, cing her hand gently on his arm. "Dad, please," she begged, her expression the most inscent girl in the entire universe. "Don''t scold on her. Ruby has been under so much pressure Tin supe she didn''t mean i Her wide, innocent eyes looked up at me. I had to admit she yed the role of the weak and caring little sister perfectly, and I resisted the urge to apud her while showering her with thomy roses. It was always the same act, the same maniption, I said nothing, letting the silence hang as Lurned and walked towards the banquet hall. If they expected me to y along with their charades, then that''s exactly what they got. Oh, they''ll be happy to y charades with me. Their new ruby. Arriving at the location, the Lycan King and his loyal Beta had just reached the same entrance. Those crimson eyes were immediately fixed on ine and suddenly my whole body became warm from that gaze. "Right on time it seems, Lana Ruby The man''s attention shified subtly and I followed the direction of his gaze. The corners of his lips cugged into a fake friendly smile. "And hello to you, the Lucienne. I almost forgot about you." but the Lycan King always had big surprises. The king stepped past me and stopped in front of I expected him to enter the banquet hall right away La Cam, Everyone suddenly became quiedy tense "Are e you feeling well, youngdy Lucienne?" he asked. Y yes yes, Your Majesty! Killian hummed doubtfully. "Please forgive my clumsiness as your ki King, but why is your belly a little bigger?" And then the most feared man in the entire continent added one more point of pleasure. "We have the best healers. I would be luppy to help check your health. Would you, youngdy Lucienne?" Chapter 21 "No answer for me!" Standing before the Lucienne family, I let my gaze fall on Cami. The tremors in her hands and the pallor of her face were delightful. She could barely stand under the weight of my attention, though it was her growing belly that intrigued me. Her secret was no longer hers to keep, but why ruin the fun by exposing it outright "I understand the healer has offered to check on your condition." I said, my tone silky smooth. "But as your king. I wish to show my concern for you, youngdy" Cami''s trembling intensified, her lips parted as if to speak, though no words came out. It was predictable. Before she could fall apart, Dominic stepped in, protecting her with his body. "The Ravenhold flock has a great healer," he said hurriedly, almost like a mutt hissing. ¡°Cami''s health is already well taken care of." Oh, how deliciously defensive he was. I suppressed a smirk, nodding as if his pathetic excuse had satisfied me. "That''s great to hear," I said, my gaze returning to Cami''s stomach. I could see her pulse standing out in her throat, her fear almost tangible. "But remember, my offer still holds" Nathaniel interjected and it made my irritation boil over. That insolent attitude would one day be paid for with his head. A gutter rat "Thank you for your concern, Your Majesty. Your grace will always be remembered by us." I waved my hand dismissively. "No big deal." The beautiful blonde stood rigidly in her ce. I almost wanted to feel bad for her. She was so close to me but I couldn''t reach her. Iughed inwardly. I was a king, and who cared what I would do! I will get what I want. So, I approached the woman and she gasped in surprise. I stretched out my hand to her. "I am still honored by your kindness since the first day I came here, Luna, You weed me warmly and took care of a king''s needs. The lie slipped easily from my lips as it always did. I let a smile touch my face. "And I m deeply saddened that I didn''t take as much care of you as I should have done. Will you forgive me?" Ruby looked at me through hershes, and smiled: "It''s my duty as a good house master, Your Highness. She took my hand and I had a sudden urge to pull that woman in and then lock her up in my room. "There is nothing to forgive. How about the banquet, Your Majesty?" "Ah, right. We are almost lote." I gently pulled the woman by my side, my hands moving to her hips with ease. I ignored all the shock from the insignificant audience. Turning towards the banquet hall and looking at it for a moment, I added casually, "It''s impressive, how much you care for your little sister-inw, Dominic. I really do. I imagine a lot of people out there envy Cami for having someone so caring "Don''t you agree, Luna Ruby?" I asked sofily The satisfaction of seeing the tension in Dominic''s jaw was enough to get me to the luncheon with a smirk on my lips. Meanwhile, my hand didn''t leave Ruby''s The banquet hall was filled with the aroma of grilled meat and freshly baked bread, but the food did not appeal to me. My focus repeatedly shified to mytest attraction. Ruby sat a few ces to my left, her posture as rigid as it had been earlier but now more subdued. I appreciated her efforts to appear unaffected, desplie the asional flicker of her eyes that showed her turmoil. How delightful it was to watch her act tough when I knew the depths of her despair. It made her all the more endearing And I was her only hope. How sweet that was, As the banquet passed, I leaned back in my chair, my gaze fixed on the gutter rat. "Tomorrow is myst day here" My voice broke the "And my wishes remain unchanged." The room suddenly became silent. Nathaniel, ever the wimp, forced a smile that could not hide his fear. "Your Highness," he began, his voice trembling slightly, "although we appreciate your visit, this heirloom is a family treasure. I''m afraid we cannot part with it." I ulted my head, observing him as if he were an insect wriggling underfoot. "I understand, my old friend. However, you know how much I need that stuff." The man swallowed and turned pale. ¡°And I beg your mercy, Your Majesty. But we stand by our decision." Dominic, the fool, chose that moment to voice his outrage. "We will not hand it over" "Then I terminated the Ravenhold l''ack''s right of protection from the agreement," 1 dered He stood up I up bravely. At his side, nked by a pair of sisters. "This pack has stood strong without bowing to anyone, and will continue to do so." Ah, the courage of an insecure Alpha. I allowed myself to chuckle, letting that voice echo in the tense atmosphere, "Strong"" I repeated with amusement. "Dominic, your strength'' is admirable. It really is. But perhaps you misunderstood my offer." I leaned forward, my crimson eyes locking on those idiot eyes. "Without my protection, the Ravenhold Herd will be in quite a precarious position. Did your father-inw not tell you, Alpha Dominic?" The entire gaze of the table''s upants was fixed on Nathaniel I smiled. My quiet threat still hung in the air, and I enjoyed the way Dominic''s face contorted with anger. He mmed his fist down on the table, then pointed an index finger at me. *You are nothing but a tyrant!" he roared. His outburst of anger made me smile. Beta Leonidas was ready to give the man the death penalty but I held up my hand, telling him to sit again. I feigned surprise, then made a sorrowful face to add a touch of mncholy to this current nauseating drama. "How unkind of you to say such a thing. I prefer to think of myself as a necessary force for order." The room was silent except for the sound of Dominic''s heavy breathing. Ruby''s gaze darted between us. "Now, now," I said, apanied by a soft tap on the table. "Let us not ruin a fine meal with something unpleasant. After all, tomorrow is another day. Maybe by then, you''ll understand." Dominic red as me, his clenched, but he dared not challenge me further. Satisfied, turned my attention back to Ruby, my smile softening slightly. "Do you have something to say. Luna? I can see your mental turmoil" I didn''t expect that statement to be spilled over the dining table right now. In front of all these people. *I am willing to give the heirloom to y you, Your Highness." Chapter 22 "WHAT ARE YOUT TALKING ABOUT. RUBYIN The atmosphere in the banquet hall crackled with tension, the weight of Dominic''s anger pressing down on everyone present. Except on the royal side. His fist mmed into the table, rattling the cutlery and drawing gasps of admiration from some of the attenders. However, I did not turn to him. Not once. My gaze remained fixed on Killian, his crimson eyes staring at me with an intensity that was both terrifying and maic, I''m getting used to those eyes" I stood up gracefully, ignoring Dominic''s outburstpletely. "Your Majesty" I reiterated my statement. "fulfilling your request is not only an honor but also proof of Ravenhold''s loyalty to the Lycan King of the Sundrench Kingdom. Our pack has sworn to always remain steadfast in loyalty to you. Dominic''s anger exploded again, while Cami who was on his right side desperately protected her stomach while asking Dominic to stop. "You have no right to make that decision. Ruby!" he shouted, his face turning bright red. "You''re not the Alpha of this pack!" Tensions were rising. On our side, people were trying to block Dominic. "I''m more powerfull I''m the leader!" "Why are you acting like you can decide when your Alpha says i s nol Dominic bravely once again pointed his hand at Killian "Are you fucking blind that he''s a Tyrant? Dominic yelled hatefully. At Killian''s side, his men tensed, their hands inching towards their weapons and some already had their ws out. I can see the barely contained bloodlust in their eyes, their veiled desire to end Dominic''s Humiliation with a swift decapitation. But Killian Killian prevents it. The King''s hand rose inmand and ncing at his faithful Beta. "Return to your ces." Beta Leonidas looked less than impressed. "This is an insult to you and to our kingdom. Are you going to allow it!" "Ah, I''m sure Alpha Dominic doesn''t mean that." "As you say, Your Highness. Beta Leonidas and the men returned to their ce with rather gloomy expressions. They still wanted Dominic''s head in their hands. I didn''t me them. Dominic had always had a bad temper and when there was a problem? like this, I was the one who had to mediate so that the man wouldn''t die ridiculously. If it wasn''t for me, Dominic would have died long ago at the hands of many packs because of his arrogance and short-sightedness! I caught the faintest trace of a smirk curling the corners of his lips, which he made no effort to hide from me. That expression made my stomach. twist. Killian Rudwick was showing restraint, but not for Dominic''s sake. No, it was for his own pleasure. He wanted the satisfaction of slow. deliberate revenge, not a quick reprieve with an immediate death. I got to know him a little bit better after being with him the past two days and it confirmed most of the rumors I''d heard about him. The personification of death itself. "Be careful, Alpha Dominic. You almost forgot your ce." Killian''s words sea aclull through the room. Even the guards-both Dominic and Killian-shifted uneasily. This was the Lycan King showing "kindness", a warning before the inevitable atrocity I knew better than to believe it. That cold grin was a promise of suffering toe. Kilian rose from his seat with an effortless grace that silenced the hall. His crimson gaze swept over all of us, then stopped right at me. "Luba Ruby." The curve of his lips softened slightly y for me. "I wanted to speak with you in private. We have a lot to talk about regarding the heirloom." Dominic''s chair squeaked on the floor as he was about to cross from his seat and several people reached out to catch him. He was shaking with rage. Chapies 22 Betone Loomvart, Beta Leonidicuntved. He "Ait shomes, Alpha" Leonidas housed dangerously. "Daless you want to lose more than just your dignity. Nathaniel, whos had been silent, kuch on one kuce, his lunds resulding as he pleaded. "Your Highness, please forgive the impertinence of Alpha Domine, my son-in- low" I made a face as I stared at the secr "Domnic didn''t mean to be disrespectful. He''s just concerned. And he only Killian did not nce at Nathaniel "Leonidas" Lesusidos released Dominic with a shitsig mail squickly returned to his king''s side. The hall fell silent, save for the sound of Killian''s boots hirring the stone tous as he walked towards the evil The banquet ended badly, the scent of the King''s promised deaths hanging in the air like a storm in the middle of winter, I did not linger. As soon it was appropriate, I slipped out, wanting to just some distance between myself and the chai was hallway along the corridor when I head boosts bride. I did and in know who it was "Ruby" I stopped, my spine stiffening as I turned slowly to face him. Dominic. His face contorted with anger, both fists clenched at his sides. "What so you think you''re doing?" he deminuleit Itibed my head as if I didn''t understand the point of his question. "You humiliated ane in front of everyone!" I said nothing, just kept my expression neutral. Theck of reaction only seemed to make him angrier. "Hose dare you ignore me?" Dominic stepped closer, his hand raised threateningly. Before he could touch me, a strong, familiar hand caught his wrist. Dominic froze, his eyes widening as Killian stepped out of the shadows "I wouldn''t do that if I were you" Killian Rudwick stares collly at Dominic. His grip on Demusic''s wrist tightens, and I see a sh of pain in Dominic''s eyes. And then Killian''s gaze shifted to me, his crimsont eyes sparkling with something dark and possessive. "Air yo you okay, Luna Rubyt" I nodded, my heart pounding as I met his gaze. Then, the man let Dominic go I didn''t see what happened because Killian had led me away from there. like a piece of junk and ordered Leonidas to handle Dominic. I Killian ced his hands naturally on my w waist, squeezing it gently as we walked together. "I''m sure you wa want to show your loyalty about the heirloom Will you escort me to your family''s vault?" he purred The tips of my ears turned red, my whole body felt heated as I found the man''s lips touching my car. Chapter 23 We''ve finally arrived. The atmosphere inside Lucienne''s main dome was suffocating, the air thick with tension and the faint scent of old wood and cold steel. I really hate being here despite being graced with the beauty of Lucienne''s wealth and glory. Dominic and the rest of his pathetic entourage had already been detained and their protests silenced by Killian''s men. On the other side of the room, I stood, my hands clenched tightly in front of me as I watched the Lycan King search for his prize. He moved with the authority of an imposing leader, eyes as bright red as his enemy''s blood scanning the rows of relics with great curiosity. I almost missed the faint flicker of appreciation this notorious man had for the main vault. Perhaps he liked the objects collected here. There was no way it was about gold or other shinny items here. A King would have grown tired of that kind of thing by the time their vault reached the count of ten. I had told him that he was free to search at will, admitting that I had no idea what the craved heirloom looked like it was true. I had never heard of such a thing, let alone seen one. Killian''s voice broke the silence. Fascinating, isn''t it?" I blinked, the man ying with his lips as he nced at me over his shoulder. "This vault, these trinkets... they hold so many secrets. And you yourself don''t seem to know much about it. Am I correct?" Instead of answering, I just keep my head down. Killian knows more about me than I care to answer. I frowned. "What exactly are you looking for, Your Majesty?" He smirked, turning back to the rows of intricately carved boxes. "Something very useful in war. A device that can create portals¡ªto anywhere at any time. Imagine the power, the control." My stomach twisted at his words. A portal? Such magic sounded too great for this pack to possess. "And that''s what they and you are excited about, Your Majesty!" It was no wonder those traitors insisted on not handing it over. "I didn''t know Ravenhold had such a thing." I admitted. Killian''s smirk deepened, his fingers tracing a gilded chest before he continued. "That''s because you didn''t." never wanted you to know. Apparently. The heirloom was looted, stolen from another pack He paused for a moment, adding. "Your fake family... ne Quiet the dishonorable, wouldn''t you say?" The weight of his revtion hit me like an angel''s hammer of death. My breath caught in my throat as the implications began to sink in. "Dominic... and Nathanic!?", My hand flew to my mouth, shaking my head. "They... lied that it belonged to the Lucienne family? Including to you, Your Majesty!" They were y were more insane and didn''t have a single brain cell. How could they so easily lie such a thing to a bloodthirsty King! Killian''sughter was low and mocking "Lying is too mild a word, darling." I massaged my temples, letting out a lour out a loud, undignified sigh. I was at a lo loss for words for their actions. "They fabricated a whole history around it, iming g it as a family treasure. Typical. You shouldn''t be surprised especially with all his betrayals to you, Luna." My knees felt weak as the truth was revealed: If what Killian said was true, what would be of the pack! What would happen to them now? As if reading my mind, Killian stopped his search and looked at me. "Are you worried about that pack? The same pack that you didn''t even know the name of until recently?" he asked almost amused. I stiffened at his words. "I''m only worried about that pack because of the people who are in it. They don''t deserve it" 12:44 PM Killian tilted his head, a faint smile ying on his lips. "How noble" Killian resumed his task. A few momentster, his search came to a halt. With a satisfied gleam in his eyes, he pulled an ornate artifact from the shelf. It glittered faintly, its surface engraved with runes that seemed to pulsate withtent power. I blinked. So, it''s definitely the object that everyone here wants? That is to be unpredictable in terms of form but quite impressed with it. "Found it," he announced, his voice triumphant. Killian held the heirloom aloft, studying it with an almost reverent gaze. Then, slowly, his attention turned back to me. "You have been so loyal Killian reveals, his tone very soft. "To dare to give this to me... this is a meaningful gesture to me, my luna." His eyes burned with intensity. "Are you truly willing to let this go?" 1 swallowed hard, my fingertips trembling slightly under that gaze. "For you. Then yes." The sharp intuale from Killian was barely imperceptible, but I could catch it. Before I could process what was happening, he set the heirloom aside and crossed the distance between us in an instant His hands gripped my arms, pushing me back against the cool stone wall. My breath hitched, and then his lips were on mine. His kiss is fierce, possessive, leaving no room for resistance. A moan escapes my mouth as his teeth graze my lower lip, his tongue exploring every corner of my mouth. His hands trace my sides, noting every inch of my curves with a precision that makes me shiver. When Killian finally pulled away, I was breathless, my heart pounding against my ribs. His crimson eyes locked onto mine, filled with a mixture of triumph and something darker. "Your devotion to me is much appreciated," Killian hisses, his breath feeling warm against my skin. "Are you willing to let your king show you his blessings to you... and as a bonus, bring you the heads of your traitors?" I stared at him, my body heated as the weight of his words took hold of me in a malevolent way. "Yes, Your Majesty." Chapter 24 "I''m sorry... Those were Ruby''sst words to him. I feh anger burning under my skin, a fire I was all too familiar with. This was the perfect opportunity to bring Ruby back to my room, to say flecting time before my departure tomorrow. But no, the rats in this pack cannot be left alone. Their audacity to challenge mit has forced my hand. I had to keep up my appearance, as Ruby had earnestly requested. For now, our rtionship would remain in the shadows, hielden until her revenge wasplete. "Kill them "Make them understand the pain Killian gritted his teeth trying to gather thest of his self-control. Dominic, that imbecile, had demanded that Ruby return to the manor with him. I couldn''t entirely me him, after all, with their twisted logic. Ruby was still Luna and his mate. The thought left a sour taste in my mouth. Seeing Ruby leave with a look of guilt made me burn more than I wanted to admit, and I heard the hiss of gossip about our "unseemly" closeness behind her. It''s not like Killian Rudwick would care. The gossip and rumor thing is normal for him. It''s just that a promise is a promise, and a man has the dignity to keep that promise fulfilled. Ruby had proven her loyalty to him and he as the king had to respect that, His woman. His pretty doll. He still has one day here. Tomorrow afternoon, Ruby will remain here, in her poor pack. I want her to be in my kingdom, by my side where she belongs, but I know that''s not possible for now. Not yet. My gaze fell on the magical heirloom lying on the table. A smile slowly spread across my face as an idea began to form. This artifact could connect me with Ruby anytime, anywhere. I could open a portal for her, retrieve it, or ever visit her-a power brush to remind her of who she is. Testing its power would be fun. Night fell, and I endured the endless drone of Nathaniel''s ridiculous speech about Ravenhold''s "glorious" history. His voice pierced my ears like a dull knife, but I listened anyway, pretending to be interested until I was left alone in my room. If it wasn''t for the necessary cover, perhaps Leonidas would have already torn the man to pieces while I would have been watching with a cup of tea "Is there something troubling your mind. Your Majesty?" I nced at Leonidas without emotion. "You know what it is and still ask?" "I''m sorry, Your Majesty. I just wanted to confirm directly about it. Don''t want anything bad to happen to my King" he replied. I snorted faintly detecting the witty tone in the Beta''s reply "How ridiculous Beta. Or should I say my dear cousin?" Leonidas wasn''t bothered by the sarcasm. "Then I have more than a right to worry about you." I just threw him a smirk and smoked my cigar, hoping it would calm my nerves but damn that woman was consuming his thoughts. Ever since I first saw that woman, I could never take any eyes off her for a second. She was beautiful, mesmerizing in a way that no woman ever was. It would never get boring to look at and even you would love to admire her. The kind of beauty that will always be as timeless as the glory of his kingdom. The King has high standards. And Luna Ruby exceeds any standards. It would be foolish for any man to waste such a perfect woman. Luna was not only knowledgeable, but shrewd and tactical when on the battlefield. Killian had read the report about her glorious history. That did not include her numerous achievements before and after bing the next Luna Killian felt that the woman was working alone for the pack, But everyone was still saying that Ruby was the lucky one to have Dominic, not vice versa. 1 looked away to the outside world. Well, I was also curious how women like Ruby shared happiness in the bed. I would have found out by now if not for those rals. You thinking about her." Leonidas chirped, "None of your business, Beta. Go back to your room or do you need a woman to drag you there!" grin graced the Beta''s face. "Maybe two women." "Ravenous" However, the man finally gave his final salute and left me alone in my room. We shared the same blood but the man was something else from him It''s worse if it''s about bed matters. 1 sat in silence, the heirloom glowing faintly beside me, when a knock sounded on my door. My guard''s voice rang out clearly. "Your Majesty, you have a visitor. My jaw tightened. Who is the troublemaker again this time?" Could it be... I told the guard to bring the guest in, my anticipation sharpening as the door opened revealing the figure I had in mind. Ruby stepped inside, her movements hurried and anxious. Even before she spoke, I could see the uneasiness etched on her face. Her lips trembled faintly, her eyes staring Intently as if seeking for reassurance. I approached her slowly, savoring the tension in the air. When I reached her, I ulted Ruby''s chin up, forcing her to meet my gaze. "Speak" "Dominic was very angry with me," Ruby began, her voice trembling with terror. "He was angry that I gave you the heirloom. He... he intends to uke it back at any cost. I fear this could escte into something worse." y was not for herself. No, it was for the pack. Her worry was "I don''t care what happens to Dominic, she continued, both hands gripping my clothes boldly and putting on a face of desperate pleading. "But these pack members they''re not guilty. If this turns into a feud, I beg you, do not punish them for their actions. Please, Your Majesty I squinted, his words tugging at something inside me. He dared to ask me this, thinking that he could influence my decision. I don''t like being ordered around, even by someone as intoxicating as him. However, I considered his request. My fingers tightened slightly on my chin. "You''re hoping for too much." She gasped, her eyes widening. I noticed the tear-stained blue orbs, so pure and open with emotion. ¡°But... I will grant your request. For now. The runts you care about so much will be spared... as long as they are still useful" Relief flooded her face, and I released her chin, stepping back. "Because you''re liare" I put the cigar into the ashtray and nced at the avable sofa. Enough for two p people to share a few things of pleasure. "Why not stay for a while? It''s early, and I feel.... your ur room must be empty." Chapter 25 The Lycan King. Killian Rudwick, finally departed for his kingdom. I stood among the others to see him off, maintaining a stole expression even as my mind betrayed me. My mind drifted to the events ofst night, reying every word, every touch. It wasn''t a rtionship in the fullest sense. but that man knew how to make mepletely overwhelmed. The memories made my cheeks heat up, but I forced myself to stay calm. And that man''sst words made my head spin even more 111 pick you up every night if your partner leaves you with an empty bed'' No wonder the king was surrounded by many women when he was able to seduce them so easily. I shook my head. They had their own portion of the deal and I didn''t need to care about his I don''t have time to waste on daydreaming right now. With Killian gone, it was time to start my revenge. One by one, they would fall. The ck market was sucked away in the shadows of a forgotten alley, its existence marked only by a faded signboard and the faint smell of something sharp in the air. I slipped inside the shop, a dimly lit room filled with rows of vials and jars, eachbeled with a promise of pain, death, or torture. The shopkeeper, a thin man with sunken eyes and a crooked smile, greeted me with a slight bow. "Wee, my prettydy." The greeting was not meant with the warmth of a friendly tea invitation but rather death. "You''vee to the right ce for... solutions. What do you need?" he asked in a husky voice. I kept my one, hoping not to tremble. "I n "I need poison." My eyes could hardly take my eyes off the rows of colorful vials. They were beautiful but deadly. Then, I turned to the shopkeeper. "Something that causes pain. Enough to torture the victim but not kill them outright." The shopkeeper''s grin widened, revealing his yellowed teeth. Ah, a connoisseur of suffering. Very well." He moved to a cab, opening it with the key hanging from his neck. "I have many options for such a request. This, for example... My eyes narrowed. The shopkeeper held up a small bottle filled with a pale green liquid. "This one causes a burning sensation in the throat and somach. Very effective for a slow, agonizing demise. 1 shook my head. "Too obvious. I need something more subtle" The shopkeeper nodded thoughtfully, setting the bottle aside. He rummaged around again before pulling out another one. "This is a poison that is extracted from the bloodthorn flower. It causes unbearable cramps and nausea but leaves no trace on the body. Perfect for someone who wants you to... punish, without telling anyone else. Or should I say just a little secret between us, prettydy." I considered it for a moment. "Does itst?" She chuckled. "Oh, yes. Hours of torment before it subsides. A good choice for someone you really hate." "In other words, I can use it multiple times?" I asked in confirmation The man blinked for a moment before hisughter boomed throughout the shop. "Oh, you like a little torment h? Of course,dy! It''s very effective," he replied enthusiastically. I moved ufortably. I never thought in my life I would take someone''s life but those so-called family, those criminals had driven me to evil and this was all I could do to avenge all the pain of my loved ones. I''m being honest, it doesn''t feel that bad, The shopkeeper leaned over the counter and 1 gasped, "Tell me. Who has betrayed you that you, the Benevolent Luna, most famous in the packs of this continent would embrace evil?" she stated sarcastically. ¨ª jaded stammering. "I how do you know?t The shopkeeper held up four fingers with a wicked grin, s, then tappert his forefinger on his temple "If you don''t understand, it''s meant to be the inner eye. Your magie will not work on me, My Junds gripped the sides of my clothes, afraid of what might happen. "I don''t care. My purpose in building this shop is not for kindnes But thest I blinked, surprised to hear that deration. I thought he was going to threaten and ckmail me. But frys had a chance "Don''t think badly of me. I have no interest in ckmailing you. Just take my advice" He showed his teeth sharply "Never hesitate with what you dioose. When you do, you will be ruined" Lunderstand, I replied weakly. "Really, I didn''t predict that you of all people woulde here. But I can understand. A taste or revenge is always deliciou." (Those words left more speechless. That meant it wasn''t just me who hade here for revenge ¡°11) take it," I said without hesitation, cing the bag of coins on the table. The shopkeeper wrapped the bottle carefully, handing it to me with a bow." It''s a pleasure doing business with you, mydy. May your revenge be as satisfying as you hope" Returning to the pack was easy. I slipped through the gate unnoticed, my face carefully forming the mask of normalcy I had perfected. No one was suspicious as I moved through the hallways and into the kitchen. The mails were busy with dinner preparations, too busy to notice that I took a bottle from my porket. I unscrewed the cap and carefully counted three drops into a bowl of soup set aside for my fake father''s beloved wife. It was her favorite meal, recipe that the rest of the family didn''t seem to enjoy. The thought made me smile faintly as I resealed the bottle and slipped away. The dinner went smoothly at first. I ate quietly, ignoring the chatter around me. As always Carni was the star of the show. I tuned it all out my focus in our person: my fake mom. She lifted the spoon to her lips, blowing gently before taking a sip. I watched her closely, my heart pounding with anticipation. He ate another spoonful, and it didn''t take long Her hand headed for her throat, her expression turning confused. She coughed, then gagged, her spoon ttering on the table. "What... what is this?TM Panic erupted around the table. Cami screamed, rushing to her side as her mother rolled over, clutching her stomach. The old woman''s face. turned a sickly slude of green, brads of sweat breaking out on her forehead. "Mom Cami screamed, her hands shaking as she tried to calm her down. "What''s going on!!" My take father immediately went to see his lovely wife. The maids scrambled to get water, towels, anything to help her, but there was nothing they could da. The poison had taken over him. 1 jumped in and yed the role of the ughter who was sad and frightened of her mother''s fate. Inwardly, I reveled in the chaos. The screams, the pans, the sight of her writing in pain; it was all I could have hoped for. The fake mother''s cries filled the room, her agony obvious to all. She seemed between life and death, Cami sobbed uncontrobly, pleading for help that never came. And 1... I savored every second of it. "Let me call for a braler," I suggested. Guni immediately nodded obediently T-thank you, sister. Please, hurry up!" On the way away from the dining room, I smiled. Well, I admit that revenge and evil are sweet Chapter 26 My fake mother''s cries echoed down the corridor, a symphony of misery that I savored deep inside. She was e was sprawled on her bed, her body convulsing while chitching her stomach. Her face was drenched in sweat, her breathing ragged. The foul-smelling salivaing our of his mouth made everyone in the room recoil. The stench was unbearable, a mixture of decay and rot that made the healers grimace. Cuni knelt by her mother''s side, her sobs loud and unrelenting. Nathaniel paced back and forth, barking orders to the guards with veins bulging in his neck. -Find out if there''s poison in the food!" he roared "And check the surveince cam cameras immediately!" ...if you dare to return without any information, then your heads will be the price!" Of course, they would find nothing. The poison was undetectable, and the surveince cameras were broken. It took everything in me not to smile at the perfection of it all. I maintained a somber expression, nodding in mock sadness as I hovered near the door. Inside, a party was in full swing. My fake mother''s hgonizing cries were music to my ears, a fitting punishment for all the years of crime and betrayal. And so it was for the rest of them as well. 1 They would get their number in line. Because I learned that if death came sooner to them, it wouldn''t be worth it These people should feel every pain and learn what suffering is after destroying the others'' lives. Hell in the afterlife has been prepared by the gods. However, the hell of that world is mine. I created it! Meanwhile, Dominic was busyforting Cami, his hands supporting her as if she was about to fall apart. "It''s okay," he whispered but was still quite audible in front of everyone. They were no longer ashamed of their affair. Some looked shocked to have just found out "You need to stay calm for our baby, Dominic said gently. Seeing him y the role of a loving protector made me tremble with indignation. There was a lingering pain in my heart because no evil that man was, we had been together. Even if it was based on lies about his betrayal. No matter atter how I couldn''t stay in that roomiany longer. Fortunately. Amara, my temporary personal servant, approached and bowed slightly. "Luna Ruby," she greeted respectfully. I gave her my brightest smile and asked her to speak. "We need to check out the orphanage. A bunch of wolf pups just arrived from an allied wolf pack, she said. "Thank you, Amara,¡± I replied, relief flooding through me and I patted her shoulder gently. "I''ll g go there now. "Would you like to be apanied by me, Luna?" I considered it. "Ah, that''s fine. Thank you, Amara? As I turned to leave, Dominic''s voice sounded behind me. "Ruby ncing away for a moment, I continued on my way. I could hear Cami''s voice asking the Alpha to stay and I scoffed at the weak idea that woman had, I even doubted she really had the illness from chuldhood and added to lier pregunty, she could y her thea "RUBY LUCIENNEL "I''m asking you to stop right now?" "Tramn in are you death? Your Alpha ondered you to stay in your cef I stopped, forcing myself to take a calm breath before turning around. My blue eyes must be currently showing every emotion I have for this man. I''ve always been easy to read through these eyes. And I hope it shows a dominant pain rather than hatred. That man needs to believe that I''m just a hurting wife who''s incapable of that vile thing called ''Revenge Dominic stepped toward me, his jaw hardened and his eyes zing with anger. "We need to talk." he demanded. "I''m busy," I replied coldly, ruming to leave. But he wasn''t going to let me go easily. His hand flew out, grabbed my arm and pulled me back. The roughness of his grip fgnited the fury I''d been trying so hard to hold back. is going to me someone else for everything "What''s wrong with you" he snapped, his face only inches from mine. For this time, I was sure he was that had happened between us. "Ever since that damned Lycan King left, you''ve been different. A lot. Do you think I luven''t noticed Iughed inwardly. What I suspected was true. Typical jerked my arm, my gaze prating him. "I haven''t changed"I hissed. "Maybe you''re the one who finally realized who I am." His nostrils fired, his hands clenched into fists. "You abandoned your family," he used. "Your mother is dying, and you''re leaving to take care of an unimportant task?" That broke down most of my self-control after hearing Dominic''s words. "This unimportant task involves the lives of children!" 1 retorted, my voice rising "Innocent puppies who need shelter and care. But of course, that''s not important to you, is it? You only care about appearances About ying the perfect Alpha while everything around you rots. I yelled in front of his face, tears streaming down His eyes darkened, his voice dropping to a dangerous growl "Watch your attitude, Ruby? I stepped closer, my anger growing. "Or what?" my face. I challenged. "You gonna hit me again! Go ahead, Dominic. Show everyone how mean you are to me Ha silence was deafening, the tension between us thick enough to choke me. I pushed ho away, shaking my head as if to ward off the pain that every day felt like it would kill at any moment. "You better look after your new concubine and her precious baby. They seem to be the only ones you care about." His face was flushed with anger, but he didn''t stops me as I turned around and walked away. My heart was pounding, a mixture of adrenaline and uatisfaction courung through me. Let him stew in his anger. I have more important things to do. I rubbed my chest. It''s okay, I''m line. Forever will be. Chapter 27 The orphanage was bustling, the chatter of the children filling the air with a warmth I hadn''t felt in days. As I stepped inside, pups from allied wolf packs were being introduced to the others. Their little faces, some nervous and some curious, brightened when they saw me. "Luna Ruby!" one of the older boys called out, running to greet me. I knelt down parallel to him, smiling softly as he hugged me. The other children quickly gathered around, tugging at my shirt and vying for attention. For a moment. 1 let myself forget my troubles, immersing myself in their innocentughter and joy. A young girl tugged at my sleeve, holding a battered stuffed wolf with missing eyes. "Do you think he''ll be okay here?" she asked, her voice hesitant, I crouched down, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "She''ll be fine." I assured her as gently as i could. "She has all of you to look after her, doesn''t she?" She nodded, her expression bright, and I couldn''t help but smile. Their energy, that innocence of their souls reminded me of Alicia. My daughter''s Jaughter echoed fainly in my mind, a bittersweet memory that tugged at my heart. Alicia would have loved this ce. She would be here, ying.ughing, bringing joy wherever she went A sense of sadness hit me, but I suppressed it. I couldn''t let it show here. These children needed happiness, not my sadness. It was a relief that the children couldn''t reach my fake toughness as Luna. After ensuring the wolf pups were settled and that they were well cared for, I returned to the residence. Amara met me as I crossed the threshold. her expression one of difort. There was gloom passing through there as well. Whenpared to Martha. Amara was much more clear in her emotions. She was open to it. It was a little disturbing but it gave me the advantage. of how transparent she was with her feelings so that I could be able to judge whether she was going to pretend to be nice in my presence or not "Luna Ruby," she said with a bow. "Allow me to report. Right now your sister, Lady Cami, is waiting for you in your room," I raised an eyebrow. "How dare she." Amara didn''t flinch when she heard my murmur. She probably already knew about the scandal my fake sister had caused and that the whole pack was in shock. Many voices in my ear were discussing them and Ididn''t care. The ones who should be bothered by it are the ones involved in that despicable scandal "No etiquette, no respect. I guess that''s what happens when children imitate their parents," I muttered under my breath Amara once again just wisely kept her thoughts to herself. I nodded for her to leave and walked to my room. When I opened the door, there she was, sining on the edge of my bed with a beaming face that I hated. I wondered how much confidence that kid had to look at me like that after everything he had done? Of course it was limitless. Stunning. Sull, I set my expression to one of quiet friendliness. ¡°Cami,¡± I greeted her, stepping inside. ¡°What brings you here?" "Big sister. I wanted to talk to you," she said, her voice dripping with false innocence. "Is it something important?" She nodded. "Yes, sister. Please I would like to discuss this with you immediately." 1 gestured for her to sit back down, keeping my toe warn "Of course. Please sit down. What''s wrong?" Cami hesitated, then lowered herself onto the chair. Her wide eyes were wet with unshed tears. as she cupped her hands over her swollen belly. "Are you still angry with me? Do you hate me? Because of this?" She rubbed her stomach, her face twisting into a miserable expression didn''t want this, Really. I don''t want to be hated by you. But all at the elder''s urging." she pretended to be full of lies. 1 folded my hands in myp, my mask of a wise Luna that I often put on in public perfectly in ce. "Camilli L, I paused, letting my voice soothe. "I don''t hate you. You''re my sister." The busted bitter on my tongue, but Cam swallowed it greedily, her tears spilling over. "I love this baby, Ruby," she said, her voice hearse with the broken sobs of a new mom-to be. It was sickening. "And I love Dominic. He has proposed to me. He wants to marry me. Surely, you understand my situation!" I clenched my fists in the folds of my dress, doing everything I could not to lunge at her. What, Domnic had proposed to her this early? Cami was getting desperate and hopeless "Please, Ruby. This baby deserves a proper family. A legal father. I beg you to agree with us" And then she was on her knees. She knelt at my feet, her hands clutching my skirt as she sobbed. "Please, my sister. I know I''ve made a mistake, but I''m begging you. Do it for this innocent baby." For a moment, I could only stare at her. She dared to kneel before me, begging for my approval after everything she hid stolen from me. Her courage was staggering. My wolf was thrashed wanting to unleash its hatred for this shameless woman. I was thankful that she and I did not share the same blood "Cami¡± I began in the manner of an older sibling giving advice. "Are you willing to face the consequences? Society will not take kindly to your status as Dominic''s concubine being.. legitimate." Her face radiated something harsh and was it resentment? But it was gone as quickly as it hade, reced by an expression of deep sadness. "No problem. As long as it''s for the baby. It''s okay if everyone hates me, as long as my sister doesn''t" If only you knew how much I hate you I forced a smile, leaning over to ce a hand on her shoulder. "Alright. If this is what you want, I... agree." Cami''s face lit up, and before I could react, she threw her arms around me, hugging me like a child. "Thank you. Thank you, Ruby. You''re the best sister that anyone could ever ask for," she sobbed, her face buried in my shoulder. I patted her back stiffly, as my nails bit into my palms. Enjoy it as much as you can, Cami. This is so far from over. Chapter 28 The sharp p of paper hitting the floor broke the silence of my room. I turned my head instantly, gripping the edge of my robe, only to see Dominic standing in the doorway, his face showing anger and disdain. I was just about to grab my clothes and intended to start the day in peace. But it seemed like I couldn''t His gare held mine for a moment before he gestured to the document now lying at "Sign it," he ordered coldly I bent down, picking up the papers with a deliberate slowness. "And what is this?" "Our new marriage agreement, He stood there with his arms folded as if demonstrating his authority as the most powerful Alpha and a husband. "I want to ensure justice between you and Cami. She deserves justice too, he demanded Justice? I almostughed, but I held it in, biting back the derision that felt hot on the tip of my tongue. Instead, I opened the document and began... to read my eyes seinning line after line of carefully crafted decell Every word exposed there was chained with an ambiguity that could be twisted to me me for everything that might go wrong. Double meanings. If one day I objected, disagreed, or even existed in a way that inconvenienced him or his precious Cami. I would suffer both formally and materially. The legal trap was thinly veiled, but I saw them for what they were. In conclusion, this is an insult Did he think we had the intelligence of a quarter of a shrimp''s brain?" My wolfs s voice echoed in my mind and I responded through our connection. As I recall you were very crazy about him and now you''re turning your back on him?" was you, and you were me. Of course you know why I ended up like this Our tastes air had then A disgusted growl echoed in reaction. That the fair''sir. Not I closed the document ciftly, the sound echoing in the room: "Im sorry, Dominar" I tactlessly as possible, tossing the document towards Domini "Hat this needs to be revised." Sipping of my bathrobe. I turned my back to him and opened the closet, leaving the back of my body exposed. *Til sign it on one conditio ger my own contact. If we''re ying this game of fairness, should''t Cami and I have the same rights?" I asked. Dominic replied in an offended to "What are you talking about, Ruby? This agreement is perfectlyr Sighing, I turned amount. I put on my shirt and buttoned it up. The man''s eyes, despite being in a condition of temper, were unable to resist looking at rentain areas of the female body Man Are they of the same kuuli "I repeated, arching an eyebrow. In that case, of course you don''t mind it Cami also has her own agreement. If I submit to these terms, I tilied my head, my lips curving to a smile as warm as I could to counter this chast morning "After all, don''t you want everything to be just and equal" sat on the edge of my bed ling my head to meet the sight of Dominic''s unpleasant expression. "I don''t see any justice here," I said out loud The man was ready to argue but lost once I asked him to shut up for a moment by bringing up the name of their affair. "You do realize how the public will react after this, don''t you, Alpha!" I massaged the bridge of my nose. "Alright, ignore that for now. About the contract or marriage agreement. It should be that each of the sides should make one. Just like on Cami''s side, mine, and yours. Not based on one voice "Did you just dictate to me?" Dominic''s Face darkened "Absolutely, no." I easily answered and once again tried to get my exnation into this moron''s head. "I still love my needs to have a voice too. It''s about living together in the long-term y sister, Dominie. In this case he I added a y on a older sibling''s affection here. "You can''t make a deal based on one person alone, 1 added. Putting on a slightly grim and tired face. "Let''s make this transparent. We''ll renegotiate this when all three of us are together. Between Cam, you. and me. For the benefit of everyone''s consensus" Dominic''s arrogance made him predictable. I saw the doubt in his eyes, but the mention of Cami''s involvement was enough to sway him. His pride and obsession with appearances left him with little choice, Please, just take the bait. Fine" he snapped after a moment and instantly I felt like I heard cheering in my head "But don''t think for a second that this is going to change anything to win my favor. You''re going to have to fix your bad attitude for a few days," he threatened "Yes, Alpha. I understand." I replied lightly, watching as his frustration grew. After the day of the marriage agreement, Dominic disappeared like a gust of wind every night. Seven days and nights passed without Dominic setting foot in our room. He always made excuses but I knew what he was hiding. I had confirmed the truth myself, sneaking into Cami''s room. And true to my word, he was there. I heard every word of his devotion to Cami, his whispered promises of love, his confessions that I never epted, at least, not with sincerity. I stare at the empty side of the bed that used to be his, an emptiness that mirrors the pain in my chest. What is the meaning of a soulmate bond if it can be so easily discarded? What was the point of fate if it only brought pain like this? The anger bubbled beneath the surface, mixed with the humiliation of being treated like expendable garbage. I gritted my teeth, trying to stop the tears from spilling over. I refused to let this ruin myposure. I made sure to tell myself this was nothing to cry about. As I closed my eyes, a strange light filled the room. It was faint at first, a glowing single point of shimmering light in the darkness. My breath caught In my throat as the light growrger, widening and swirling until it formed a vortex of light Panic gripped me as I stumbled backwards, my heart pounding The silhouette of a figure appeared in the light, its form firm and dashing. My fear presence instantly dominating the room. Killian Rudwick turned to disbelief as the figure stepped through the portal, his The same deadly aura, the same pair of crimson eyes that hield promise and threat. His lips curled into a familiar, wolfish grin, and my entire body was unable to move. "It''s been a long time, darling," he greeted. I couldn''t speak. My throat felt dry, my thoughts a tangled mess. Killian stepped clover, the glow of the whirlpool fading behind him as his presence filled the room. "Miss me?" he asked, tilting his head as if he already knew the answer. I swallowed hard, my voice finally pushing its way past the lump in my throat. "Wh-what are you doing here?" The man''s grin widened even furlier, a spark of excitement dancing in his eyes. "Testing a theory. And, of course, checking on my favorite Luna," he answered simply. The main room felt smaller with his presence. I felt that familiar pull, the one that always drew me to that deadly, powerful man. And for the first time in days, the pain in my chest lessened, reced by something far more dangerous but intoxicating Killian ners at my empty, lonely bed. see your room is pretty cold. Want to go in somewhere warmer, Ruby Lucienne?" Chapter 29 "Til make sure that the rest of the manor''s residents won''t get suspicious" It had been a week since we had seen each other. All because a king can''t run away from the word ''busy'' and the bitch from the Varent noble family, wanted my cock in her mouth because her husband was having an affair. My kingdom has some kind of cooperation with that family and I''m the type who seeks as much profit as possible. So, I gave it to her. The service wasn''t bad actually but somehow it suddenly felt tasteless. So, maybe I''ll take this as a signal. I decided to make it a farewell or in other words thest time to y around with the bitches out there. After all, tuby seemed to be a hundred multiples more outstanding than them. "But Dominic coulde back." 1 shook my head. "Trust me, no. I didn''te without a n." However, Ruby''s doubt was written all over her face, her eyes flickering between my outstretched hand and my gaze. I could see the doubt brewing inside her, but I wasn''t one to take no for an answer. "Come on, baby," I said softly, dripping with seduction in it. "Don''t make me beg. This is something we both want" Her lips pressed into a thin line before she relented, cing her hand in mine. I wasted no time in pulling her close, reveling in the warmth of her body as I nted a kiss on her cheek. Her soft gasp amused me, but it was the blush spreading across her face that really caught my attention. She always suits that color. My color. "That nightgown suits you." I murmured, letting my eyes fixate on the fabric. The deep red color matched my eyes perfectly, and the sight of her in it stirred something primal in me. "It is quite fitting Ruby''s blush deepened, and I couldn''t help the smirk that tugged at my lips. As the portal opened, she followed me through, her steps tentative. On the other side, she stumbled slightly, her bnce faltering I caught her easily, my hands firmly holding her waist. We arrived within two minutes at the royal main chamber. ¡°Be careful,¡± I said, holding her firmly. "This is the effect of the portal. You''ll get used to it." "So the heirloom works," she said, her voice tinged with awe. "Of course." I replied with a hint of pride. "It''s a masterpiece of miracles. I wouldn''t be chasing it all over to your pack if it wouldn''t be like that." Ruby nodded. "Of course. I never doubted the King''s taste. "Onite a again, you are always understanding, my dear." After she regained her fooling. I led her to the lounge room, where the warmth of the fire and the rich aroma of wine filled the air. I poured two sses, handing one to her before taking a seat on the plush sofa. I saw him hesitated again, clearly considering the other sofa across from muc "Not there" Ruby stopped immediately. Smiling. I patted myp "Come here" She gulped but obeyed, sening herself on myp. Her movements were stiff at first, at first, but I wrapped my arms around her waist, holding her tightly. "Now, tell me," I ordered, swirling the wine in my ss. "What has been happening in Ravenhold? I trust you''ve made some progress with your revenge!" Ruby shifted slightly, trying to getfortable, and I held back a smirk at her disconfort. rou really want to Do you to know? It''s kind of like going to confession p? sin. Your Highness," she murmured. The corners of my lips twitched in amusement. I wouldn''t expect such an innocent answer from Ruby. I almost wanted tough. Ah, I really didn''t go wrong when ites to choosing a woman. Ruby was very entertaining "Confession before your King would be like alleviating some of your anxiety. On the other hand, if you want do it before a demon, you''ll feel like yani have the perfect evil mentor" 1 exined My fingers slipped the blonde strands into her ear, the texture was the kind I liked. Soft and smooth. It''s well-cared for. "And I am both of them. So, there''s no need to feel awkwardTM §± I patiently waited for her to open up and she finally agreed. Patience can sometimes not he a hobby but I can understand for a dove who wants to be a firrer hawk and carries a sense of anger it must be quite embarrassing Especially confessing a sin "So! Tell me," Fordered "... started," she confessed slowly, "I poisoned my fake mom. She''s still bedridden, barely able to move." Ol, a small achievement. I chuckled darkly "Good start. And again!" "Cami and Dominic are getting married soon," she continued, her tone t but there was still hurt there and I kind of didn''t like that. "They have drafted a new marriage agreement. On that including me, of course. Dominic threw it at me and had me sign it. The terms were ridiculnis, so I made him agree to a three-way contract. One for each of us I couldn''t help butugh. "Clever. You''re learning quickly, my dear" He looked at me, his expression unsure. "But the bond has been done simply, but Cami has always dreamed of a spring wedding. If I knew her, she''d be pushing for a grand celebration soon. Spring is close at lund." I rubbed my chin thoughtfully. "That works perfectly Ruby frowned in confusion "What do you mean?¡± I let the silence stretch for a moment, enjoying her curiosity. Then, I leaned closer, my lips brushing the skin of her ear "We''re partners in this revenge, aren''t we! Naturally, I have a n Her confusion deepened, and she pulled back slightly to look at me. "What n?¡± I grinned. "I tell you... if you pay in advance." past week Ruby''s eyes widened, and before she could answer, I captured her lips with mine. The kiss was scaring, all the pent-up desire of the spilling out as I imed her lips. It was sweet, intoxicating, and I deepened the kiss, biting her lower lip gently before soothing it with my tonglie She whimpered softly as I pulled away, only to trail kisses along her jaw and down to her earlobe. My teeth grazed the delicate skin there, and I smiled against her ear as si shie shivered in my arms. Coulder it a unall payment," I murmured, my voice low and husky. "And I''ll repay you with a a gift on your husband and sister''s wedding day Ruby''s breach hitched: "A galu!" I chuckled, my fingers brushing over her flushed checks. "Oh, yes. The best gift you could ask for. Let''s call it forget." The firelight danced in her eyes as she looked at me, a mixture of curiosity and excitement on her face. Truy spectacle. Something you won''t Chapter 30 I leaned back on the sofa, letting the flickering firelight dance in the room. Ruby was still sitting on myp, her body slightly reisse as if searching. for whether this position was appropriate or not, but I didn''t mind. There was a certain thrill in seeing her like this, torn between the strength she was trying to show and the vulnerability she couldn''t hide. Tonight, I''m not interested in discussing the pests in her herd. No, tonight is for us. But to get what I want, I have to tread carefully. After all, this woman was nothing like the bitches I often met. Not at all. So, she had to be treated differently. "Oh I want to know, darling." The words I said sounded inviting as my fingers tracedzy circles on the silk of her nightgown. "What was it like, living in that den of betrayal? It''s not easy to endure, surrounded by people who... disgust you" I sighed sadly, She stiffened slightly at my words, her hands gripping the fabric of her dress. I let her wrestle with herself, observing the flicker of emotion in her eyes. Finally, she spoke, despite the trembling. One thing I liked about her, she was still steadfastly maintaining her image as Luna even though she had sat on thep of a King That''s why I wanted to destroy It must be delicious "It''s suffocating," she continued her confession, looking away for a moment before looking back at me. Blue met crimson. "Every day, I have to act as if nothing is wrong. I have to smile at them, ept their lies, pretend everything is fine. But inside, I feel like I''m drowning." Her words stirred something in me. I kept my expression soft, my fingers drifting lower to rest on her t stomach. I caressed her there gently. giving her a sense offort. "You''re stronger than most, Ruby, 1 murmured, almost purring "To endure that kind of torture while plotting their downfall... it''s impressive. Admirable, even." She fidgeted in myp, clearly ufortable with the intimacy of my touch, but she didn''t move. I smirked, letting her difor fuel me. Leaning forward. I rested my chin on her shoulder, my lips nuzzling her ear as I spoke. That... duL" "Hm? What do you want to say?" I winced as the woman still remained silent and maintained her dignity unnecessarily and I pushed a little more effort. "Don''t you miss me, Luna Ruby? Or do you miss your useless husband more!" She shook her head quickly. "N-no... it''s not like that" "I miss you," I whispered, my voice deliberately lowered and filling her car with seduction. "Every moment apart is torture. No letters, no messages... only silence. It drove me mad." Ruby''s breathing lutched, and I felt the slight til of her head as she leaned into my body. That small gesture of trust made something dark and possessive curl up in my chest. Tilting her face towards mine, I captured her lips in a kiss. It was soft, exploratory at first, but it wasn''t long before my hunger took over. I deepened the kiss, my hands sliding up to caress her cheeks as I imed her mouth with unrestrained passion She melted against me, her fingers curling around my chest. I could feel her surrender, and it only added to my desire. My right hand easily slides over theyers of the crimson nightgown, squeezing her thighs gently. A sharp moan and a hump jumped in response as my expert hand slipped easily into her gown, "A-ahh, Your Majesty. H-hold on a moment...." -shbha I turned her body to be facing straight ahead while her back was supright against me. The fabric was already fully exposed as if the stage curtain of the musical was about to begin and I, as the great mastro, was about to open the musical performance perfectly. just ept and enjoy the blessings of your king''s service. Can you?" She nodded stammeringly. "Y-yes, Your Majesty." -Good girl." Ruby''s legs spread wide between my thighs. She moaned as I reached down to touch the folds of herce pants and found that they were already a little wet for me. Oh! "Are you wet already, darling! So naughty." 1 patted her neatly wrapped pussy as if to punish her. Was I such a good kisser that you got aroused right away?" I asked. "Hng-I-I''m sorry..." I chuckled. "It''s okay. Let''s start, shall we? You''ll like hearing the artificial music your king made for you." With one tug. the panties fell off. I stroked the folds of her pussy, biting the half- naked shoulder. I pinched her chubby pussy with two fingers, her clit squeezing in a delightful way as my clever hands yed with it. Ruby screamed and juices began to gather. "Ohh...Hngh... I gritted my teeth. Ruby''s butt identally touched the arousal in my pants. She would be responsible for that. My other hand didn''t stay quiet. With this position, I easily yed the instrument on Luna''s beautiful body. My left hand was working on squeezing those chewy boobs, while the other was ying with that horny wet pussy and now three fingers were buried into that heavenly hole as deep as they could go, fucking that hole with a tempo that made women scream. Fuck. She was so tight. How long has this woman not been fucked! "Ouhh! Your Highness.please!" 1 hummed feeling her pussy walls twitch "Only ten minutes and you already want to cum? Does Dominic no longer pamper you!" She shook her head in response. Poor woman. "Hm, what a wicked husband you have. Lucky you got your king''s attention, don''t you think?" 1 quickened my finger thrusts. The sound of her creamy pussy and lonely woman''s pleasure cries echoed in my room. I growled at the erotic sight. wet eyshes, sobbing for cum and rosy lips glossed by the saliva we shared. "Do you want to cum, my dear?" She quickly nodded. ¡°Yes, yes, let me With a speed that made her scream, I hissed out themand. "Cup for me." And instantly a surge of holy ecstasy flooded my hands. That beautiful body arched like a true archer over myp at the release of her first orgasm. Iughed, quite proudly as Ruby''s pussy squirted copious amounts of fluid three times. Even the remaining juices dripped on the Coor Ruby was quivering violently, still sobbing from the pleasure she had just released. "You did well, my pri Just as I was about to push further for another game, a sharp knock on the door broke the ice. 1 growled low in my my throat, the sound rumbling with annoyance. "Who dares?" "My king," came Leonidas voice from the other side. "I have an important report regarding the kingdom''s borders." I exhaled sharply, my patience wearing thin. But I had another idea. I knew the man was interested in Ruby since the social gatherings he attended quite often on my behalf and their arrival at the Ravenhold Pack only added more to that interest. Ruby was still dazed and unaware of her surroundings. I smirked. An idea came to mind. "Come in," I ordered. Leonidas stepped inside, bowing slightly. "Apologies for interrupting. Your Majesty, but there are reports of unusual movements near the easter border. We suspect The Beta''s surprise shed as his head lifted and was greeted by the sight before him. I casually pulled three fingers out of the heavenly hole with a lewd plop sound and greeted him. "Yes. Beta Leonidas! Lapologize I wasn''t very y focused. Can yosi repeat that?" Chapter 31 < Chapter 31: When Being Treated by a Cruel Man 45% I was shaking violently, my body pressed against Killian Rudwick''s chest. It wasn''t until the haze in my mind began to clear that I realized how exposed I had been, howpletely disheveled I had been. My nightgown clung to my damp skin, my hair was a mess, and my feet were still lying in the Lycan King''sp. Everything was no longer in ce. I was almost literally naked. ''And for heaven''s sake, that was the best fucking orgasm I''ve had in a long time!" Heat spread across my cheeks. I didn''t realize it at first because the ecstasy of pleasure clouded my senses but after long enough for the voice to speak it burst my euphoric bubble.. "That''s all I have to tell you, Your Majesty..." Panic struck me, my hands scrambled to fix my dress and cover myself. I almost screamed, but Killian''s hand quickly pressed against my back, steadying me. His touch, firm andmanding, is meant to calm me, but does nothing for the wave of shame coursing through my veins. Anger, shame, and horror mixed together. I''ve just been intentionally exposed by Killian. "Calm down..." The whisper resembled an absolutemand. I could only obey because that was what happened when I decided to sell myself to him. I was also more afraid of the consequences if I denied it. But this was not in our agreement. My head jerked towards the door. Leonidas stood there, his expression as impassive as ever, though there was an amused glint in his single eye. That bastard. He gave hisst respectful greeting to Killian without even ncing at me. I could do nothing but sit there, pale and frozen, trapped in a humiliation that would never go away in my lifetime. "I apologize for interrupting your private time, Your Majesty." When Leonidas finally left, the door locked behind him, I turned to Killian, my voice trembling with panic and embarrassment. "Why would you allow someone else into your room when you''re... like this?" My hands moved helplessly at his disheveled appearance and our perilous position. "Why!?" I could feel my anger invading me and could barely contain it. "Your Majesty!" I demanded shakily. Killian leaned back,pletely unperturbed by my outburst. His crimson eyes glistened with amusement as he stared at 1. me. "It''s simple. Leonidas has a crush on you, dear," he said casually, as if that exined everything. I blinked,pletely surprised. It was definitely a part I knew but never thought Killian would realize. "That doesn''t answer my question." I really never felt this awful. And the man shamelessly cleaned his three fingers that he had just used to be a torture tool before me. Killian smirked, his fingers tracing empty patterns along my arm and the finger he had just cleaned resting on the edge of my lips. "Leonidas likes to y with girls," he exined, looking up at me. "But he has never shown any particr interest in anyone.. until now. I just wanted to warn him of his position." I stared at him, incredulous. "What are you talking about?" Killian chuckled,ing closer until his lips were against my ear. ¡°Leonidas, my dear cousin sometimes likes topete with me. You know what that means." The Lycan king seemed to enjoy my confused reaction in the midst of this madness. "But, I don''t n topete about you. He can find someone else." Heughed, his voice deep and rich, as if my disbelief only served to entertain him further. His hand cupped the side of my face, his thumb rubbing my reddened cheek. 1:1 Chapter 31: When Being Treated by a Cruel Man "Why not?" The baritone voice suddenly became colder. I felt the rigor gripping my heart. I seemed to have crossed the limit of her tolerance. I bit the inside of my mouth and prepared to apologize only to be interrupted by him. "I forgive your little murder earlier. It''s okay. We will learn more about your new education. Including obedience," he pointed out as if he had read my mind. I nodded stiffly. Still frightened. "Forgive me, Your Majesty." The Lycan king''s forefinger gently tapped my forehead. "Keep your apology in your pocket." Before I could respond, Killian scooped me into his arms in one easy motion. I let out a startled shout, my arms instinctively wrapping around his neck. "Your Highness! What are you doing!?" I unconsciously let out a high-pitched, impolite voice at him, almost like yelling. His smile widened. Seemingly unperturbed by my impolite behavior just now. "I''m getting you cleaned up," he said simply, as if it was the most obvious thing in the world. I was squirming in his arms, my heart pounding. "Will you take me back to my room soon?" I asked hesitantly The thought of Dominic returning to our room together scared me. Killian''s expression softens slightly, though the smirk remains. "You have nothing to fear. I''ll send you back before he opens the door. Trust me, darling, I know exactly when he''ll be back." I frowned, confusion clouding my mind. "How could you possibly know that?" He replied with his trademark swagger. "Magic. Of course." "What...?" It might be true that a werewolf or Lycan is capable of mastering magic but it is umon. How powerful was this guy? "You shouldn''t be surprised. To be a king you have to be strong, sweetheart. And thene to think of it, how can I be immortal, hm? I was unable to answer him. Hell, I''ve been ying with death itself. Killian carried me to the bathroom adjacent to his bedroom. It was a little surprising that someone like him could be so attentive to his sleeping partner''sfort. The warmth of the water and the light of thentern ease the tension in the room, though my nerves remain on edge. Killian is meticulous, his touch gentle and almost possessive as he helps me clean up. Unfortunately, the work had to be done double because the man and the hard bubble under his pants demanded attention. In return, the man was a bit squishy for the standards of the cruelest Lycan King in history. After I was refreshed and dressed in his clean shirt, he carried me back to his bed,ying me down gently between the plush pillows. He paused for a moment, those blood-red eyes staring into mine, and for a moment, I forgot to breathe. He brushed a stray strand of hair from my face. "Rest, Ruby. You''re safe here." Of course I am. But not from you. Forever. Chapter 32 Chapter 32: The Cursed Wedding Ruby''s POV The day she had been waiting for had arrived. Cami''s dream of a spring wedding had finallying true, the gardens of Ravenhold blooming with vibrant flowers and soft pastel hues. The air was crisp, and the sunlight dappled through the trees, casting an idyllic glow on the carefully arranged ceremony. Yet, despite the beautiful setting, this was not the case. Apparently marrying your wife''s sister was not a good idea. Guests whispered amongst themselves, their eyes darting between the altar and each other as realization dawned. This was not just any wedding. This was the wedding of Alpha Dominic and Cami Lucienne, sister of Luna Ruby Lucienne. This scandal was thick enough to make them choke. Most of them couldn''t believe that the invitation was for Dominic''s second wedding. All the women without exception were furious. The reason was quite obvious, the matter of the male heir. Some of them felt offended that there were still some packs with ancient thoughts and met the same fate as Luna Ruby. Some of the men seemed rather fond of this gossip. Some of them were people who disliked Dominic. And who was I to refuse to turn up the heat on that stove? It was certainly a golden opportunity. "Can you believe this?" one woman muttered to herpanion, loud enough for those around her to hear. "He married his wife''s younger sister... and she''s pregnant!" ¡°It''s shameful,¡± another man scoffed, shaking his head. "The Alpha has no dignity left. How can he stand there and call himself a leader?" "Poor Luna Ruby," a third, female voice chimed in. "Enduring this humiliation and keeping her head up... she''s stronger than I could ever be. "If I was Luna Ruby, Cami would probably just have her name on a tombstone. I mean look at her, doesn''t she look like an innocent girl? Is that just fake? The gossip has be the main focus of the show, recing the romantic music that apanied the wedding. The guests who didn''t know each other became connected because of this one big scandal. No one would have predicted that this harmonious¨Clooking household could be ruined by the presence of a third person. Especially when the culprit is your beloved younger sibling. This is the scenario they''vee up with. They weren''t wrong, except for the ''younger sibling'' aspect. I will never admit it. I stood at the edge of the ceremony, with a calm face. Acting as if I was oblivious to my surroundings. I had a role to y, and I yed it well. A strong,posed Luna who held her pack together despite being betrayed. I could feel the pitying nces, the subtle nods of respect, and the stream of sympathy directed in my direction. Let them feel sorry for me. Let them see how ridiculous this whole event was. At the altar, Cami stood beaming in her ivory gown, but her smile faltered as murmurs reached her ears. I saw a sh of fear in her eyes, the way her hands trembled slightly as she grasped her bouquet. She was so jubnt before, almost glowing with excitement. Now, her forced smile and stiff movements showed her growing unease. Dominic, for his part, looks stoic, though I know him well enough to see the tension in his jaw. Considering the man has a bad temper and a patience as thin as a tissue soaked in water, this time at least it was somewhat impressive he was able to hold himself in under the guise of a wise Alpha. Dominic stood beside his bride, his posture rigid as if daring anyone to challenge him. But the whispers continued, louder now, breaking through the carefully curated illusion of this joyous asion. Cami tried to salvage the moment by giving a speech. Her voice trembled as she spoke of their love and the blessing of their unborn child, a male heir who would continue the family legacy. Her words sounded weary, met only with polite apuse and skeptical looks. Despair was evident on her face, and when she nced at me, I saw the burning anger behind her sadness. Cami had hoped to win them over. She had failed. And then, the atmosphere changed. The air became heavier, filled with the presence of a powerful dominant. All heads turned as that figure entered, unable to ignore the massive power emanating from that figure. Killian Rudwick. The Lycan king stepped into the ceremony gracefully, his crimson eyes scanning the crowd with his typical arrogance. The whispers stopped, reced by a shocked silence. No one had expected him to be present. People quickly straightened Chapter 32: The Cursed Wedding their spine, adjusting their expression in an attempt to appearposed and worthy of her attention. I couldn''t believe it. He had kept his promise. My heart pounded as she approached the altar, her lips curving into a charming yet deceptive smile." "Congrattions, Alpha Dominic. Lady Cami. What a joyous asion," The words rang out loud and clear through the crowd. There was no trace of that subtle insult and disdain for others in the intonation. Dominic forced a smile, bowing his head slightly. "Your Majesty, we are honored by your presence." Cami''s smile was fragile, her hands sping her bouquet tighter. "Yes, Your Majesty. Thank you for gracing us with your attendance." Before they could say more, my fake parents appeared, with smiles and eager gestures as they weed Killian. Their sycophantic behavior is almostical, but Killian ys along, his reaction polite but distant. He wasn''t here for them, and I knew it. And then, it happened. The murmurs of the audience turned to gasps as arge recording screen flickered to life behind Dominic and Cami. I was breathless, my hand flying to my mouth as the footage began to y. There it was. The affair, aired for all to see. Every stolen kiss, every whispered confession, every ndestine meeting in hidden corners-it was all there. To add thetest drama to this cursed marriage, the screens switched to footage of them having forbidden affairs in various ces. The room became chaotic in an instant. Disgust, revulsion, and hatred mixed together to form a musical background to this scandal. "Is this real?" someone eximed. "How can it be?" another voice hissed. "What kind of alpha..." someone trailed off, unable to finish his thought. "Wait... wait, so it''s been a long time? Here, I remember. Luna Ruby just got engaged!" "That''s fucking insane! They even slept together the day of the engagement!? What a vile creature!" Cami''s bouquet fell from her hand, her face turning red. Dominic''s expression darkened, his eyes ncing at the screen and the crowds of people. Starting forward, he shouted to whom to help him find the perpetrators of the wedding party''s destruction, going to banish the embarrassing footage, but it yed on, unstoppable. My fake parents were embarrassed and tried to find where the recording''s magic stone was. The stone was useful for things like. But their efforts failed. They didn''t find it anywhere. I stood stunned, my mind struggling to process what I was seeing. I didn''t even think of collecting all this footage from the CCTV especially since the CCTV in our pack was reported to be broken and in needed of repair. It must be because of that Lycan King. This... this was a gift from Killian. Of course it was. Who else could have orchestrate something so precise? I shifted my gaze across the room, and there he was. Killian stands calmly amidst the chaos, his champagne ss raised in a silent toast. Our eyes met, and he smiled a wicked, meaningful smile. "Enjoy the show, darling." He gestured through the subtle movement of his lips. I swallow hard, my heart beating in a strange way behind my ribs as various unfamiliar emotions overwhelm best gift I''ve had in my entire life and it''s perfect. 1. me. This is the Subscribed Chapter 33 Chapter 33: They Eat the Bait Chapter 33: They Eat the Bait Ruby''s POV The wedding was a disaster. What should have been Cami''s dream wedding had turned into an unrelenting nightmare. Nathaniel was livid, his face red with rage as he barked, demanding an immediate investigation into the humiliating incident. His pride was shattered, the image he had carefully built was now tainted by the scandal that unfolded before the entire pack and their allies. In fact, since the invitation was spread, this had already be shameful news. I don''t understand how I could have been deceived by this stupid species all this time. Cami, on the other hand, sat trembling in thevishly decorated bridal chamber, her once perfect dress now wrinkled and disheveled. Her makeup was smudged and she was no longer a joy to be seen. Her mother approached, whispering soothing words while wiping her daughter''s tear-streaked face with a silk handkerchief. "It''s ruined," Cami whined. "They''re allughing at me... how did this happen? Who would do this to me?" Mother stroked her golden hair, whispering lovingly to her. "Shhh, my dear. We''ll find out who did this. You are still the good Cami and Alpha''s rightful concubine, and once your child is born, no one will question your position." I watched them quietly from the corner of the room, keeping my expression delicate and sympathetic. The role of supportive big sister suited me perfectly today, and I had no intention of ruining it. The door suddenly mmed open, making Cami flinch. Dominic stormed in, his eyes zing with barely contained rage. His hands were clenched at his sides, his entire body thrumming with frustration. "There''s nothing," he growled. Hearing that, Nathaniel sighed loudly. "Are you absolutely sure?" "I did aprehensive check. But there are no intruders, no breaches, nothing out of the ordinary. This must be an act of an insider!" he raged. Cami whimpered again, and as if on instinct, Dominic rushed to her, pulling her into his arms. His hands moved to protect her swollen belly as he whispered something into her ear. She nodded weakly, burying her face into his chest as if only he could protect her from the world''s ridicule. Then Alpha''s smoldering gazended on me. "It''s you, isn''t it?" I gasped, my eyes widening. "Me?" Stepping forward with barely restrained rage, he pointed at me and swore at me. "Yes, it was you! You were the first person to know about our rtionship and didn''t ept it from the start. Admit it!" I looked at Dominic as if he had lost half his mind. "I didn''t do anything, Dominic. Do you have any real evidence that I did?" Dominic was still insisting on the usations he was holding. "You never epted our rtionship. You wanted revenge, so you humiliated us in front of everyone." I blinked at him, pretending to be tired and disappointed with his attitude as his first wife. "Are you seriously saying that, Alpha Dominic?" I cast my gaze at the upants in the room, feeling the tears pricking the edges of my eyes. I used the emotion of my sadness for Alicia that I missed in order to push this emotional maniption in front of them. "Dad, Mom. Do I look capable of doing that?" I asked in a cracking voice. Shaking my head, I looked at Cami and then Dominic. "You''re the Alpha in this pack. You must know that I''m fully busy with all of Luna''s duties. Did I have time to think about that horrible crime?" "You could be lying!" Dominic barked. "Dominic," I sighed, rubbing my temples. "Think about it, I was disappointed and devastated after finding out about your rtionship. I really was. I had every right to be. But tomit such a wicked crime against my little brother? No, Dominic." His lips curled into a sneer. "Stop twisting everything around. You had every reason to, Ruby." I tilted my head, changing my expression to or Sessfully unlocked! what exactly will I get out of this? If anything, this scandal reflects badly on me as well. My sister just got married, Do you think I enjoy seeing our name dragged through the mud?" How people are mocking the Alpha of our pack. That Lycan king must be proud of me for acting this well. I''m probably close to Cami''s level. How wonderful. Before Dominic could answer, my fake mom quickly stepped in to take control of the situation. Chapter 33. They Eat the Bait "Dominic, please behave. Ruby is my daughter too," she warned harshly. Dominic started to back away when he heard that. I refrained from vomiting. "My eldest daughter can''t be that cruel," he said as he moved towards me. "She''s always been a good sister... maybe there''s someone else who wants to destroy our pack. Someone who doesn''t like Dominic and is using this opportunity to bring him down." I had to fight all instincts to recoil as my fake Mom hugged me, her arms tightening around my shoulders in a gesture meant tofort. The warmth of her touch felt disgusting, a very sweet reminder of how well she yed the role of a mother yet never really loved me. I could even feel as if her knife was always at the side of my throat, ready to rip me to pieces. Despite my disgust, I let my body rx into her embrace, cing my hand gently on her back as if I found sce in her words. "Perhaps we should conduct a thorough investigation," I suggested. Everyone in the room suddenly looked at me. I continued, "Gather the avable members of the pack and interrogate them one by one ording to our procedures. If necessary, we can even bring in a witch... someone who has the ability to detect lies and uncover the culprit." Nathaniel, who was still angry, snorted in agreement. "Witch? I don''t like them." "Husband, we have to do it. It''s for the sake of our daughter, Cami. I''m sure with this the matter will be resolved quickly." Nathaniel still insisted that he didn''t want to do it but thanks to his wife, he finally agreed even if he had to. "Alright. It might be the only way to get the real answer, he replied reluctantly. Good. They really were fools. Murmurs of agreement resounded throughout the room. Many of the nuclear family members supported my suggestion, and I smiled inwardly at how effortlessly I guided them towards the oue I wanted. "I know an old friend," I continued smoothly. "Someone who ispetent and experienced. He will find the truth for us. I don''t want our pack''s reputation to suffer any longer, and above all, I don''t want my sister to endure any more pain." Dominic narrowed his eyes, still in disbelief but he could do nothing as the suggestions and arguments I presented in front of his face were crystal clear and logically eptable. Cami''s head snapped up at my words, her eyes glistening with tears. "Oh, Ruby..." she whispered, stepping forward before throwing her arms around me. I let out a soft, controlled breath as Cami hugged me. The irony of her embrace was not lost on me. If only she knew the depth of my hatred. If only she knew the truth. Instead, I hugged her back, gently rubbing her back in what appeared to be a gesture offort. "I''ll make sure we find who did this," I whispered with the venom of affection against her ear. "I promise, my dear sister." Chapter 34 Chapter 34: The Revenge Partner''s Comfort Ruby''s POV I finally made it over there. I couldn''t stand being there any longer from the start. The air in that cursed room was suffocating me with lies and false concerns. My dress fluttered around my ankles as I walked briskly through the halls of the manor house, ignoring the muttered greetings of the pack members who dared to acknowledge me. My pulse pounded in my ears, my mind muddled between anger and exhaustion. And then, suddenly, a hand seized my wrist, pulling me into the shadows of a secluded corridor. A gasp caught in my throat, but before I could scream, another hand covered my mouth. Crimson eyes gleamed down at me. Killian. The tension drained from my body, but the shock remained. "You''re... You''re still here?" I whispered as he removed his hand from my lips. The man''s lips quirked unimpressed. "Of course, darling. Did you think I''d leave before seeing the aftermath of my handiwork?" I blinked at him, still trying to process his sudden presence. The dark yfulness in his gaze made my pulse quicken. "By the way, did you enjoy my gift? I''d like to hear it directly." he continued, tilting his head. I exhaled sharply, a humorless chuckle escaping from my mouth. "Enjoyed? I think ''very satisfied'' is a more urate description." Killian chuckles, his fingers tracing a slow, idle pattern along my arm. "And here I thought you might be too shy to admit it, Luna." I narrowed my eyes. "How did you even get that footage?" His grin widened. "Magic has its advantages. A little maniption here, a little surveince there... and suddenly, the truth will reveal itself at the most opportune moment." I shook my head in disbelief, but the small smile on my lips showed my gratitude. Later, as the weight of the afternoon fell on me, my chest felt tightened, and without warning, the emotions I had struggled to suppress came rushing back. I didn''t want to cry. Not in front of him. Not in front of anyone. But the betrayal, the exhaustion, the sheer injustice of it all-I couldn''t hold it in any longer. Tears welled up in my eyes, and my breath hitched as the first sob escaped my lips. Before I could turn away, strong arms wrapped around me, pulling me into a solid chest. His warmth was overwhelming, his scent intoxicating. "Stop wasting your tears on those who don''t deserve them," Killian murmurs, stroking my hair. I clenched my fingers into the fabric of his suit, trembling as I tried topose myself. The Lycan king''s voice was softer than I had ever heard, his touch was gentler than I expected. I had even thought this was the most sincere of all. I couldn''t remember thest time someone hugged me like this; calming me, worrying about me, and taking care of me. Yet, this man whom almost everyone fears the most, gave it to me. There was no disgust for me who was just a civilian with the title Luna of a pack. It''s far different from him. I don''t know if it''s truly sincere or just his best maniption. But I choose to take it for granted. Today I was already at the height of stress. "Ruby, my dear..." he called. I kept crying like a dummy, while he seemed unbothered. "If you cry," she whispered, brushing her lips against the top of my head, "you''ll ruin your perfect appearance." A wateryugh escaped me, even though tears were still streaming down my cheeks. "Is that all you care about, Your Majesty?" "Not really. Sex is still number one." arting to dare toment I snorted, not too surprised to hear that. I was starting "How typical." That drew a roar ofughter from the man, I automatically smiled a little between my pathetic sobs. He pulled back to cup my face, his thumb swiping at the dampness under my eyes. Chapter 34 The Revenge Partner''s Comfort "Ruby, listen to me." With that request, I obeyed. "You''re beautiful, Ruby. Strong. If Alicia could see you now, she would be so proud," he whispered right into my face. The mention of my daughter''s name made my breath hitch, my chest feel heaving for an entirely different reason. He says it with such conviction that I want so badly to believe it. "Killian..." I whispered, my voice quavering. His crimson eyes burned into mine, a deep emotion flickering in them that I didn''t expect. Before I could think about it again, he looked down, his lips brushing against the corner of my eye where another tear had fallen. Then another one. And another again. The heat of his breath hit my skin, sending shivers down my spine. My hand pressed against his chest, intent on finding a handle. When our eyes met again, I felt it-that maic pull, that inevitable force that pulled us together. Killian took away my pain with a kiss. His lips move to mine slowly at first, coaxing, tasting, until something deeper takes over. The gentle pressure of his mouth turns into something more demanding, more consuming. I felt myself sinking, my fingers curling around the cor of his suit, holding him as if he was the only solid thing in the world crumbling around me. The corridor is too exposed, too risky, but Killian doesn''t seem to care. His hands trailed down my sides, his grip strong yet respectful as if I was the most precious thing in the world to him. The kiss deepens, turning hungrier, more possessive, and I feel my back against the cold stone wall. I bite my lip to stifle a sound as his lips trail down my mouth to my jaw, then down, brushing the sensitive skin of my neck. Oh my, it''s so hot. I wasn''t sure how much longer I could stay still. As if sensing my thoughts, Killian breathes into my skin. "I have to go,¡± he muttered, though he made no effort to move away. ¡°I have a meeting with Nathaniel. Formalities and all." My dazed mind struggled to process his words. "Nathaniel?" He hummed in affirmation, his fingers still idly tracing circles on my hips. "I have to make sure... our partnership remains beneficial. But don''t worry, darling," he told me. Killian leans in, nting a final kiss on my lips. "I''m the best revenge partner you could ask for. And at the end of this story..." Those bloodshot eyes burned with promise. "...we will both be watching your fake family burn to ashes." I shivered, not from fear, but from something far more exhrating. And then I nodded, breathless and obedient. Killian grinned. "Good girl." And just like that, he was gone, leaving me on the cold stone alone. I brought a hand to my chest and there had quickened, my lips were still tingling, and just like that my world had changed forever. my heartbeat "Oh my goodness, I''m really savoring this. What should I do?" 373 Chapter 35 Chapter 5: (Un)Friendly Visit Chapter 35: (Un)Friendly Visit Ruby''s POV The Tower of Magic loomed before me, a magnificent structure of dark stone and shimmering runes, twisting into the sky like an eternal guardian over thend. Unlike the rustic charm of the Ravenhold Pack, this tower radiated an eerie brilliance, its obsidian walls etched with soaring machines that illuminated the night sky. The entire ce felt alive-a realm where time bowed to the will of those who understood the arcane arts. Its entrance was guarded by an enormous silver door engraved with the sigil of the sorcerers-a crescent moon sheltering a watchful eye. As I stepped inside, the scent of burning incense and aged parchment filled the air. Magic hummed through the walls, vibrating beneath my fingertips as I walked through hallways lined with towering bookshelves and glowing artifacts. And in the midst of it all was Nora. I found her in her private study, a vast chamber cluttered with potion vials, scattered spell scrolls, and an enchanted quill that wrote on its own. She looked up as I entered, her sharp emerald eyes locking onto mine before her lips curled into a knowing smirk. "Oh, Ruby!" Setting aside an ancient manuscript, she grinned. "I was wondering when you''d finally show up." She hadn''t changed much since thest time I saw her. Nora was as graceful as ever, her ck curls cascading down her back, adorned with tiny silver ornaments that jingled softly with her every movement. Dressed in flowing midnight-blue robes, she carried herself with the aura of someone whomanded the world- because, in many ways, she did. Yet the first words out of her mouth were not a warm greeting. No, that wasn''t Nora''s style. "Your scandalous partner''s marriage is the talk of the entire continent," she said bluntly, shaking her head in feigned disbelief. "Dominic has truly outdone himself this time. What an absolute idiot." I sighed, rubbing my temples. "Nora, please." "What?" she scoffed, leaning back in her chair. "You know I never liked your Dominic. You were head over heels for him, and I tolerated that, but I always knew he was self-centered-" She caught herself, exhaling sharply. "And tell me, dear friend, how exactly did sweet, innocent Cami end up pregnant? Or should I even ask?" I crossed my arms, shifting ufortably. "Don''t talk like that. They love each other. And the elders wanted a male heir." Across from me, I could feel the waves of loathing radiating from Nora. She was, after all, my one and only best friend. I used to think her aloofness made it difficult for her to get along with Cami or Dominic. Turns out, Nora simply had a built-in radar for spotting ''the corrupt and the assholes''. Nora''s eyes darkened. "Of course they did!" I winced. That wasn''t the end of it. Nora''s voice only grew shriller as she unleashed a string of insults, loud enough that a few sorcerers peeked through the cracks of the door." "Nora... just let it go. There''s no need to-" "I need to!" she snapped, her anger crackling with raw energy. "The Ravenhold Pack is full of power-hungry, misogynistic pigs. They never deserved you, Ruby. They never even tried to see your worth and who you''re." I swallowed hard, forcing a smile, even though her words stung with the truth. Nora ran a frustrated hand through her hair. "I care about you like my own sister. Seeing you like this makes me want to- damn it! Do I need to blow up your precious pack?" I paled, shaking my head frantically, both hands raised in surrender. If Nora said ''A, it would never just stop at ''Z. "Don''t do that! Do you want to rot in prison forever!?" I snapped. "I wouldn''t be like this if you weren''t constantly surrounded by a bunch of brainless swine-except for me, of course." She lifted her chin smugly, clearly pleased with her own statement. I let out a weary sigh. "Nora. Let''s just drop this, okay? I''m fine." The breathtaking emerald hue I had always admiSessfully unlocked!ger tucked against her thigh. It peeked through the slit of her gown as the grand sorce.ess propped up her legina.nanner that would have scandalized any noblewoman. "Only for now," she replied. I nodded, shooting her a grateful look. My muscles had been tense from the moment I set foot in the tower''s courtyard. Chapter 35: (Un)Friendly Visit Because, of course, it would be like this-Nora and her spectacr temper. Atst, she leaned forward, her expression softening. "So, tell me. What brings you here? I doubt you came just to reminisce about your pathetic excuses for staying with your ex-mate." "Not ex-mate, Nora. We''re still together..." I defended weakly. She let out a mockingugh, correcting me. "Not yet, to be precise. Am I right?¡± My shoulders slumped as I took a deep breath, gathering myself before speaking again. There was no point in arguing- because she wasn''t wrong. But Nora didn''t need to know that, especially not about what I had been doing behind her back. "I need your help. I need someone I trust to investigate what happened at the wedding," I admitted. Her expression darkened. Again. "You mean the same wedding that humiliated you? The one where your so-called family stood by and did nothing while you suffered? The same bastards who have spent years breaking you?" Nora looked at me as if I had lost my mind. I didn''t answer. I didn''t need to. The silence was enough. Nora let out a heavy sigh. "Ruby, why do you still waste your kindness on them?" I smiled, though it felt hollow. "Because someone has to clean up this mess. And if I don''t, the pack will suffer-and I don''t want that." She narrowed her eyes at me, reading deeper into my words. If only she knew the truth-that my kindness was nothing more than a veil for the revenge I was weaving. That if Nora knew who my partner in vengeance was and what I had sold to make this retribution a reality, she would definitely be horrified I hadn''t told her about my mate''s real crimes or that the family he imed as his own was nothing but a fake. My entire life was a game of deception. And Nora? I''m sure she''s loyal. Therefore, if he knew my worst problem right now, she would stand by me through it all- even if I spoke my darkest desires for revenge. I chose not to. I loved her too much to drag her into this. After a long pause, Nora clicked her tongue and leaned back, crossing her arms. "You''re lucky I adore you, Ruby. Fine. I''ll do it. But not for them. Only for you." Relief washed over me. "Thank you, Nora. I need you as soon as possible." She exhaled sharply. "The earliest I cane is tomorrow afternoon. Unlike some people, I actually have responsibilities as the deputy head of the Magic Tower." I arched a brow. "That''s just an excuse, and you know it." "You''re absolutely right," she quipped, pulling open a drawer beneath the sofa and retrieving a Kiseru pipe,pletely ignoring my disapproving stare at the lung- destroying object. "I have no interest in wasting my time on those filthy pigs. But for you? Fine." The tension in the room eased slightly, and before I could say anything else, Nora''s signature smirk returned. "Now, enough about those idiots. Let''s talk about you. When are you going to find yourself a secret lover, hmm?" A rush of red panic crept up my cheeks. I stammered. "NORA! What are you even talking about!?" The mischievous glint in her emerald eyes only deepened my embarrassment. "Oh,e on. You can ask me if you need a distraction. And lucky for you, I have an extensive collection of handsome men in stock." She winked,ughing at my horrified expression. I groaned, covering my face with my hands. "Nora, please." "Oh, Ruby. I''mpletely serious. How about joining me tonight at the male strip club?" Her eyebrows waggled suggestively. "Nora Lee!" And that only made Noraugh harder, delighting in my embarrassment. Subscribed 0 Likes Chapter 36: Luna''s Sce Chapter 36 Chapter 36: Luna''s Sce Ruby''s POV Night had fallen, the silver moon casting a soft glow through the grand windows of my chamber. I sat before my vanity, brushing my golden locks with gentle strokes. The scent ofvender and vani clung to my skin-the fragrance I had chosen for the night, though I cursed myself for caring about such things. I shouldn''t feel this way. I shouldn''t feel the anticipation coiling in my stomach, waiting for someone who was not my mate. But I did. Killian Rudwick was ruthless, yet somehow, I had caught his attention. Perhaps it was affection, or maybe I was nothing more than a passing amusement to him. Whatever it was, he had helped me he had ignited my vengeance, delivering justice in ways I never imagined. And I couldn''t deny how that thrilled me. Time slipped by. Ten o''clock. Still, there was no sign of him. Instead, my door creaked open, and a dreadful weight settled in my stomach. Dominic. After all this time, he had finally set foot in our chamber as if it still belonged to him. I met his gaze through the mirror, my expressionposed and resigned as I ced my brush down. "You should be with Cami. She needs you. Why are you here?" I asked, my voice as even as I could manage. He scoffed, a sneer curling on his lips. "Don''t ask me stupid questions, Ruby. Just answer mine." I turned to face him fully, my patience thinning. Oh my goodness, what does this man want now? "So, tell me your question, and I will give you your answer, Alpha." "Your friend, the sorceress, the witch, wizard or whatever," he said, crossing his arms over his chest. "When is sheing? Cami has been crying all night over the embarrassment she''s endured." My fingers clenched into fists on myp as my hatred burned fiercely. Cami wasn''t crying out of remorse for her betrayal -she was crying because she got caught. And the two of them deserved each other. Forcing my expression to remain neutral, I answered, "She will arrive tomorrow afternoon." Dominic nodded as if he understood, though the sneer never left his face. "Good. I''ll be waiting for her tomorrow. No-we all will." His gaze flickered over my appearance, and he shook his head with a derisive snort. "I still value you. But don''t expect me to touch you again until you learn to behave. A proper Luna wouldn''t act like this." I bit the inside of my cheek, refusing to let him see how his words stung. I would not give him that satisfaction. I did not need him anymore. Without another word, he turned and left, mming the door behind him. I exhaled shakily, stepping forward to lock it immediately. Please, let him not return tonight. I silently prayed-to any god that might be listening-that I would never have to see that vile man again. My body still trembled with anger from his insult when, suddenly, the air in my chamber shifted. A soft glow illuminated the room, and even before I could turn around, a portal shimmered open near my bed. I knew who it was before he even stepped through. Killian Rudwick. He emerged with all his breathtaking, awe-inspiring glory, his presence effortlessly filling the space. My breath caught in my throat as I took him in. He was dressed in the nightwear of a nobleman-a dark silk robe, loosely tied, revealing the sculpted perfection of his chest and the taut ridges of his abdomen. The firelight flickered against his skin, entuating every sharp line of h powerful form. Heat crept up my neck and into my cheeks. Killian noticed. Of course, he always did. A slow, knowing smirk curved his lips. "You lo Sessfully unlocked! I scowled, desperate to steady myself. "What are you doing here?" "Is that how you greet me?" We stared at each other, and in the end, I was the one who looked away, knowing I would lose any argument with this man. Chapter 36: Luna''s Sce "I thought you weren''ting," I muttered, half grumbling. He chuckled. "Ah, so you were waiting for me, hm? Lucky for you, I''m a very considerate man." I highly doubted the "considerate" part. "Do you... do you not have work to do? Isn''t a king supposed to be busy?" I asked, clutching my silk robe tighter in nervous reflex. Instead of answering, he walked toward me, his crimson eyes sweeping over my body with a leisurely kind of intent. "You smell wonderful tonight. What is it?" he murmured, reaching out to tuck a stray lock of hair behind my ear. "Lavender and vani," I said, my pulse hammering as his fingers grazed my skin. Killian hummed in approval, lowering his head slightly. "I like it. Though, I much prefer your natural scent," Killian admitted before his lips brushed against my cheek. A shiver ran down my spine. I forced myself to regain control, stepping back slightly. "You still haven''t answered my question, Your Majesty. Why are you here? How''s your duties?" "How very thoughtful of you to care about my duties," he mused. "Though I do appreciate it, my dear Ruby, it''s unnecessary." Leaning against my vanity, he crossed his arms over his chest in a deceptively rxed stance. ¡°I don''t intend to drag you into my chambers tonight. I''d much rather stay here and keep youpany." I frowned. "Why?" Killian''s smirk faded, reced by something far sharper. "Because I have a feeling your mate might try toe back." A wave of his power swept through the room, nearly knocking the breath from my lungs. "And I''d like to see just how far his courage goes," Killian added. My breath hitched as realization crashed over me. That could only mean one thing. "Y-you know. You knew he came to see me just now," I stammered, dazed. I struggled to make sense of it-how could he possibly know despite the distance? Had he nted a scrying stone in my chamber? But when? Was it during hisst visit? Killian tilted his head slightly. "Of course I knew." Before I could react, his strong arm wrapped around my waist, pulling me against him. My heart pounded as his lips brushed against my temple. "Do you have any idea how beautiful you looked when you were angry just now?" Killian lowered his voice by an octave, his eyes speaking everything. I swallowed hard. "Y-your Majesty..." "Mmm," he hummed, his grip tightening slightly. "But that anger of yours was wasted on a fool, Ruby." His lips trailed along my jawline, slow and teasing. The heat coiled deep within me, and I barely managed to bite back a whimper. "W-what''s wrong?" I gasped, sensing the subtle shift in his mood. Killian exhaled sharply, as if trying to shake off a thought. "Just the usual idiocy at work." I hesitated. "Do you need help?" ½y He stilled for a moment before letting out a soft chuckle. "You''re really adorable, you know that? Always offering to help me as if you were my mother. Do you have a hobby care of everyone, darling? ing The man''s yful words sent a shiver through me, even as I rolled my eyes. This was my little boldness in front of the King, and he didn''t take any offense at all. "You could help me in other ways," he replied casually. I red at him, almost forgetting who I was speaking to. Killian merely chuckled at my reaction, his lips finding my once more and his arms were never far from my body. "Now, now. Is that any way to speak to your dear partner in vengeance?" I flinched in his embrace, knowing one thing for certain-Tonight, I would not be sleeping alone. Chapter 37 Chapter 37: The Grand Witch Arrives Ruby''s POV The air shifted as the grand witches from the Tower of Magic set foot in the Ravenhold Pack, Leading the front line was Nora Lee, the Deputy Head of the Tower of Magic, her presence exuding power-impossible to ignore. Her strength radiated from her in waves, an unspoken warning that she was not to be underestimated. Beside her, several other witches followed, their expressions unreadable as they mirrored their leader''s every step. I was the first to wee them, my heart both relieved and wary, Nora had certainly kept her promise to make a grand entrance. There was absolutely no need for an entire group of witches just to handle this matter. I sighed. This was undoubtedly her way of irritating Nathaniel-my so-called father had despised witches for as long as I could remember. Grinning broadly, I stepped forward as the first to greet her. "Wee, Nora." She mirrored my expression, though her emerald eyes gleamed with mischief. "Thank you for the warm wee, my friend,¡± she replied in a voice as smooth as silk, as if she hadn''t just walked into a den of wolves who would rather see her kind burned at the stake. "But there''s no need for such formalities. It''s not like we only met yesterday, huh?" she added, her earlier air of wisdom vanishing in an instant. I held back an eye roll. "Formal greetings are the first step in weing a guest," I answered, pulling her into a friendly embrace. "I''m d you actually came." Nathaniel''s displeasure was immediately evident. His jaw clenched, his lips pressed into a thin line as his gaze flickered toward the witches, barely concealing his disgust. But it was Nora who offended him the most-especially her choice of attire. She had deliberately chosen an outrageous outfit for the asion, no doubt just to provoke him. A sheer ck robe embroidered with gold clung to her figure, revealing a tightly fitted corset underneath that barely covered what needed to be covered. High slits ran along both sides of her legs, offering teasing glimpses of her toned thighs as she moved. A thick gold ne adorned her neck, matching the cuffs wrapped around her wrists. She looked like a force both powerful and untamed. Cami, who had always been the devoted wife, stood faithfully by Dominic''s side, her hands resting on her growing belly. She cast a nervous nce at her husband as Nora approached, but Nora barely spared her a nce before turning her attention to Dominic. "Alpha Dominic," Nora greeted with feigned politeness, tilting her head slightly. "How kind of you to invite me." Dominic''s expression remained cold as he shot me a brief nce before returning his gaze to Nora. "You don''t even know why you''re here." Nora''s sweet smile widened. "Oh, but I do! I''d just rather hear it from you directly." If there were a trantor for people''s smiles, then Nora''s would have meant, Arrogant and utterly shameless bastard. Dominic''s jaw tightened, but he had no choice. Gritting his teeth, he recounted the details of his disastrous wedding, his arm tightening protectively around Cami as she clung to his side with a dramatic sniffle. When he was done, he demanded, "Find out who did this. They will be punished." Nora sighed, feigning regret. "I would have been more helpful if I had attended the wedding. Such a shame I missed it." Her tone was light, but I could see how she barely stopped herself from rolling her eyes. It was just an excuse. The moment the invitations were sent out, she had burned hers immediately. I only hoped Nora wouldn''t push things too far, especially since Dominic was already targeting her. He knew how close we were and had likely concocted some wild theory that we were conspiring to expose his sordid affair with Cami. I don''t want that to happen because it''s not true. However, someone needs to be the scapegoat to save some embarrassment. "It''s okay, Nora. I understand how demanding a witch''s duties be Cam interjected. Sessfully unlocked! Nora''s jaw visibly tensed. She did not appreciate Cami daning to use her first name without permission. "Thank you for your understanding, Cami." Suddenly, she straightened up and pped her hands together. "But! I did bring a wedding gift," she dered cheerfully. Chapter 37: The Grand Witch Arrives With a snap of her fingers, arge box wrapped in deep crimson fabric materialized before us. I tensed However, Cami immediately stopped sulking the moment she saw the gift. Her eyes widened with delight, sparkling with excitement. I prayed to whatever god was willing to listen-hopefully, the gift was an actual gift. Nora always had a creative way of dealing with things she despised. "Oh, Nora! You''re so kind!" She stepped forward, arms outstretched to embrace Nora. But before she could, Nora gracefully sidestepped her. "Ah, my apologies," she said, feigning regret. "I don''t like hugs. I''m not the affectionate type." Liar. I had seen her tangled in the arms of many lovers, whispering sweet nothings into their ears while stealing their breath away. That woman was a master of romance in all its forms. "Thank you for your gift and your sincere concern for my sister, Cami said warmly. Nora scoffed. "It''s no big deal. My friend''s sister is my friend too. No need to make a fuss." On the other hand, Dominic''s face darkened at Nora''s behavior, his possessive hand pulling Cami back behind him. Before any more unnecessary pleasantries could be exchanged, Nathaniel spoke up. "Enough, Get to work." Unimpressed, Nora waved a dismissive hand. "I work when I receive properpensation." Nathaniel''s eye twitched. A vein bulged at his temple. "How much?" he ground out through clenched teeth. Nora''s sweet smile widened. "A medium-sized chest of gold." His fury spiked instantly. "Are you out of your mind!?" "That''s already a cheap price. Or shall I call it a ''friendly discount''?" She pulled me closer, draping an arm around me as she affectionately patted my arm. "This is because of my friendship with Ruby, Lord Lucienne." "No! I will not agree to this! That price is outrageous for something so trivial!" he roared in anger. Nora released me and shrugged. "Well, suit yourself. You''re the ones who need me, not the other way around," she replied indifferently. I took a deep breath as the argument continued, already dreading what was about to happen. Reluctantly, I stepped forward. "Perhaps we can negotiate," I said, ying the role of mediator despite my unwillingness. But Nora remained firm. "No negotiations. That''s the price. And as I said, it''s already cheap-considering our history, Ruby." This time, it was Cami who stepped in. "Father," she whispered, cing her delicate hand on Nathaniel''s arm. "We need this." Oh, this blonde fool. Nathaniel clenched his jaw, ring at Nora for a long moment before finally relenting. With a sharp nod, he barked at his secretary to retrieve the payment. Nora''s triumphant smirk made me want to bothugh and scold her. The truth was, this deal affected me as well-I was still part of this pack, after all. Once the gold was in her hands, Nora casually pulled out her kiseru, inhaling deeply before exhaling a slow stream of smoke. "Ah, well then," she called out across the courtyard, her voicemanding everyone''s attention. "Show me the magic stone from the celebration. I''ll examine it. And-" Turning back to the group of witches who had apanied her, she ordered, "Search the entire area. Spiritual traces aren''t that easy to erase. Even the faintest remnant could be useful." "Yes, Grand Witch Nora!" they responded in unison. I cut in from the side. "Would you like some of our pack members to assist you? They can act as guides, considering theyout of the pack." "Don''t underestimate my people, Ruby. They''re not lost chicks in need of a mother hen." She smirked, puffing out her chest. "I was just offering help," I muttered in annoyance. As my family and I led Nora to a more private area to inspect the recording magic stone, a cold dread settled in my chest. Nora was incredibly skilled in magic-her talents were renowned across the continent. Chapter 37: The Grand Witch Arrives It would be a disaster if she managed to detect the spiritual traces lingering on that magic stone. But then, Killian''s words from the night before echoed in my mind. "Don''t worry. She won''t find anything." I prayed he was right. ¿Ú Chapter 38 Chapter 38: Domination and Authority Killian''s POV The Kingdom of Sundrench stood as a testament to power, its golden towers piercing the sky, its endless obsidian walls forming an imprable fortress that had withstood centuries of war and betrayal. It was a kingdom of unmatched wealth and fear, where order was absolute and crime was nearly nonexistent. Not because justice was fair but because punishment for defiance was swift and merciless. A man named Killian Rudwick had ruled for nearly a thousand years-an immortal king with a legacy drenched in blood. He had seized the throne with his own hands, tearing out his father''s throat and iming power in a single ruthless stroke. He was a tyrant, a warlord, a ruler whose mere presence could bring lesser men to their knees. Yet, despite his brutal reputation, the Kingdom of Sundrench flourished under his reign. His people knew peace-not out of love for their king, but out of sheer terror. And that Killian Rudwick was me, now standing as the embodiment of that very terror. I stood amidst the carnage, blood dripping from my hands and staining the stone beneath my boots. Around me, the lifeless bodies of the Silver Fang Packy scattered, motionless, and unbreathing. Their foolish Alpha, Julius, knelt at my feet, sobbing uncontrobly. The bald, overweight man clutched at my boot, pressing his lips against it with utter desperation. Pathetic. "Please... please, Your Majesty. Mercy. I-I was tempted, I was foolish, but I swear it meant nothing. I''ll do anything. Anything! Just let me live!" My expression remained utterly devoid of emotion as my gaze drifted toward the vast blue sky above him. Perhaps, at this moment, they believed that I-the Lycan King-was contemting various ideas. Ideas of murder. Julius trembled beneath me. "Your Majesty... please, just this once, hear my plea. I swear I will nevermit such disgrace again, Your Majesty!" I exhaled through my nose, unimpressed. Beta Leonidas, standing beside me, pulled a cigar from inside his coat and casually ced it between my lips. A flick of his lighter, and soon, smoke curled into the air, mingling with the scent of blood and death. I inhaled slowly, letting the unbearable silence stretch as I stared at the traitor kneeling before me. My dear ally, my trusted friend-Julius had conspired with the enemies of the Northern Kingdom to have me killed. All for wealth, status, and ves to indulge his depraved appetites. His audacity made my blood boil. "I trusted you, Julius," Imented, my voiceced with feigned sorrow. Exhaling a plume of smoke, I watched it drift over the pool of blood surrounding us. ¡°After everything I''ve done for you... is this how you repay me?" Julius choked on a sob. "It was a mistake! I-" I raised a hand, silencing him. "Leonidas," I saidzily, not even bothering to tear my gaze away from the sniveling disgrace before me. "What is the appropriate punishment for betrayal?" Leonidas barely blinked. "Death.¡± Julius let out a broken wail, wing at my leg. But before his filth could stain my trousers any further, my ws sliced through his throat in one clean motion. His head tumbled to the ground, his body copsing beside it, twitching once before going still. Satisfaction settled deep in my chest, the wolf within me howling in agreement. I stepped closer to the corpse, ncing at Leonidas. "What time is it?" I asked, flexing my fingers as if I hadn''t just torn out a man''s throat. Leonidas arched a brow. "Midnight." "Perfect." I grinned. "I have something important to do." Not really. But it had be my favorite pastime. "Something important, Your Majesty? Now I''m curious, Leonidas and core, though I could still hear the mischiefced in his tone. Sessfully unlocked! "That''s right. I''m sure you have a few guesses as to why." He let out a faint scoff. "Of course, Your Majesty." Beta Leonidas followed closely behind me, along with a few of my finest soldiers. The magic portal stood wide open before Chapter 38: Domination and Authority us, and together, we stepped through it, letting the light consume us-leaving behind nothing but ruin and death Upon returning to my grand kingdom, thest thing I expected was a work-rted interruption. Not something like this Beta Leonidas blocked Daphne Marjorie from approaching me. "Killian! Oh gods, seriously? It''s midnight, and you''re still out ying in ake of blood?" I pinched the bridge of my nose. "Cousin, I should be the one asking you that. What are you doing here? "Oh, just a friendly visit, Killian. Why so stiff with me?" Daphne pouted. "Are you blind? It''s the middle of the night," I scoffed. She crossed her arms. "Excuse me, oh mighty Lycan King. I''ve been here since noon! And guess how long I''ve been waiting for you!?" "Then go back to your chambers and talk to me in the morning. I''m exhausted," I replied weanty. That part-about being exhausted-was the truth. But the real reason was that I simply had no interest in dealing with her. I suspected she suffered from some sort of cousinplex, likely fueled by our childhood and the close bond myte mother had with her family. The thought of prolonged interaction with her disgusted me. The only reason I still tolerated her presence was because ! needed her and her family-for now. With her growing boldness, perhaps it was time for a reminder. A warm visit to the branch family might be in order. Now that I thought about it, it had been a while since Ist visited the Marjories. Yes, a perfect idea. After all, parents are the best tool to remind their children when they start behaving abnormally. "Killian, are you even listening to me!?" I cast a nce her way. "Yes, we''ll talk tomorrow over tea. You''re such a kind soul, aren''t you?" "I''ll hold you to that," she grumbled. Beta Leonidas still stood between us, blocking her from getting any closer, and I silently thanked him for his efforts. I wiped my neck, where the blood of the traitor I had just in had sttered and clung to my skin, grimacing in disgust. Damn it, I need a holy bath after this. "Go back to your chambers now, Daphne. I won''t tolerate defiance twice," I warned. Daphne suddenly froze, her face shing purple for a brief moment. Fear flickered in her eyes at my veiled threat, and it dawned on me that she must have really tested her courage just to push this far. "F-fine. Good night." Then, with her nightgown billowing behind her, she disappeared down the hall. I wrinkled my nose, nausea rising in my throat. No, that is not the kind of nightwear a woman should be wearing while staying at a rtive''s residence. "Has she lost her mind?" Beta Leonidas, overhearing my muttered words, responded, "Is something wrong, Your Majesty?" "Your cousin. Do you have any ideas on how to curb her... excessive attention?" I asked, irritated. "Ah, you mean her obsession?" I shot him a sharp look before turning away. "Yes, something like that. I might end up killing her if she doesn''t change her behavior within the next week." As I made my way to my chambers, Beta Leonidas remained at my side, faithfully escorting me back. "Would you be sad if Daphne Marjorie died?" I asked after a long silence. "I don''t think so, Your Majesty," he replied. "Hm... I suppose I always suspected you weren''t that fond of her." The Beta offered a smile, though it never reached his eyes. "There are a few reasons for myck of sympathy toward I nodded, not inclined to drag the conversation further. "You can return to your quarters, Leonidas. We''re done here," I dismissed him as we reached the massive doors of the King''s main chamber. Beta Leonidas bowed. "Good night, Your Majesty." Upon returning to my ce, I wasted no time cleansing myself of the blood and changing into a fresh silk shirt and dark trousers. Then, I stepped into my private study, where the air was thick with the scent of old books and smoke. With a flick of my wrist, the magical device on my desk activated. Chapter 38: Domination and Authority A vortex of shimmering light appeared before me, forming several floating screens. Each disyed a different part of the Ravenhold Pack-the training grounds, the pack houses, and the surrounding forest. But my focus was fixed on only one. Ruby Lucienne''s room. This was the hobby I had mentioned earlier. Ever since I had ced surveince in every corner of the Ravenhold Pack, watching Ruby Lucienne had be my personal indulgence. I leaned back in my chair,zily swirling the brandy in my ss as I observed her. She had no idea she was under my constant gaze-every movement, every expression, entirely mine to witness. My lips curled into a smirk as I took another sip. Chapter 39 Chapter 39: The Tyrant''s Obssession Chapter 39: The Tyrant''s Obssession Killian''s POV This was the third night I chose not to visit Ruby. Not because Icked the desire-no, if anything, I relished the thought of being in her presence, hearing her sharp tongue, watching her struggle so hard to feign indifference. But absence was a far crueler game, one I yed with expertise. Let her feel the weight of my missing presence. Let her realize that without me, the world felt colder, emptier. After all, I was her anchor-whether she admitted it or not. I poured myself a ss of my finest brandy, the rich aroma of oak and spice filling the air as I leaned back in my chair. The screens before me flickered, each disying a different corner of the Ravenhold Pack. I barely paid attention to the insignificant movements of its members-Dominic parading around with his pathetic excuses about Cami, Nathaniel grumbling at his men like a decrepit old mutt. None of it interested me. But then, something did. One screen caught my attention-a dimly lit grand room, its architecture magnificent, its walls adorned with intricate carvings and ancient books. And in the center, seated before an elegant ck grand piano, was her. Ruby. My fingers tightened around my ss as my gaze locked onto her. I had never seen her y before. This was something new. "Ah, so you''re skilled at this too?" I spoke, despite the fact that my intended audience was nowhere near. She was far beyond these walls. It seemed the woman missed me so much that she had taken to ying the piano to chase away her loneliness. Dominic had chosen to spend the night in his concubine''s chambers. And his supposed vengeful mate had note to him tonight. ¡°I almost feel cruel now," I murmured before chuckling to myself. ¡°But it''s okay. I''ll give her one more gift. Perhaps that will make up for my wickedness these past few nights." Her fingers glided effortlessly across the keys, each movement precise, each note seamlessly flowing into the next. The melody was familiar-a song meant to celebrate the fleeting joy of youth, the lighthearted essence of freedom. I had a particr appreciation for the arts, music included. I enjoyed it, often spending my scarce free time attending operas or musical performances. It helped soothe my nerves when I had to deal with the endless sycophants or the royal imbeciles who possessed barely a quarter of a functioning brain cell. And that wasn''t even counting my duties as King. So, of course, I recognized the tune this broken Luna was ying. It was meant to bring joy to its listeners, to capture the very essence of happiness and freedom. Yet, under Ruby''s touch, the song became something else entirely. The notes still danced, but they carried a weight they were never meant to bear. They spoke of longing, of sorrow carefully concealed beneath a beautiful facade. Captivating. I exhaled slowly, the drink in my hand momentarily forgotten as I listened-truly listened. The way she yed, the way she poured unspoken emotions into every note-it stirred something unfamiliar within me, something I had long considered beyond my reach. For a brief moment, my heart, cold and lifeless for centuries, clenched. It was a foolish sensation, and I crushed it just as quickly as it surfaced. Whatever it was, it was merely anotheryer of the intricate puzzle that was Ruby Lucienne. "You''re watching her again." Leonidas'' voice shattered my thoughts. He leaned against the desk, arms crossed, an infuriating smirk ying on his lips. I hadn''t even noticed him enter. "If you ask me, you''ve been behaving rather hicallytely," I replied disinterestedly. Leonidas, my ever-trustworthy Beta, merely shrugged. "I knocked, but you were too busy with your new hobby." "And to what do I owe this visit, Beta? Wouldn''t your night be better spent with one of your chosen women?" My biting tone only seemed to amuse him further sighed unwilling to resort to violence tonight, so I simply ignored him. Sessfully unlocked! "I''m abstaining, Your Majesty. I hear it''s good for the soul and body, he answered with an innocence that did not suit him in the slightest. I scoffed. "Please. Are you drunk on something?" "No, though perhaps I''ve been spending too much time with an old friend who likes to ramble about gods and sins," he Chapter 39: The Tyrant''s Obssession quipped. Rubbing my face, I took another slow sip of the brandy I had just poured. I would lose my sanity if I had to listen to Leonidas preaching again. I was half-convinced he was drunk. I inhaled deeply, but there was no trace of alcohol on him. "You should go back to your quarters. I don''t want to see you until tomorrow." Beta Leonidas took another step closer. "Forgive me, Your Majesty. I came because I needed to confirm something," he stated. "As your cousin or your king?" His lips curled into a faint smile. "Both." "How ttering," I drawled, half-mocking. He exhaled, shaking his head. And what he said next irritated me more than it should have-more than it usually did. "You look like a man deep in thought, Your Majesty. Dangerous. Are you actually trying to understand your own feelings?" My hand froze mid-motion as I swirled the brandy in my ss. I scoffed, finally taking another sip before responding. "You''re talking nonsense." "Am I?" Leonidas tapped the edge of my desk. "What you''re doing with her-it seems a little too familiar, doesn''t it? Possessiveness, intrigue, dare I say... affection?" He chuckled. "If I didn''t know better, I''d say the mighty Lycan King is feeling something dangerously close to love." I turned my gaze to him, my expression void of amusement. "Love?" I echoed, letting the word settle on my tongue like something forbidden. "You forget who I am, Leonidas. I do not love. I do not need love." Leonidas merely shrugged. "You''re still watching her." I ignored him, my eyes drifting back to the screen where Ruby continued to y,pletely unaware of my obsessive gaze. This wasn''t about love. It wasn''t about beauty or desire. It was something else entirely. Ruby was no ordinary woman. She was sharp-exceptionally so. When I tested her in intellectual conversation, she didn''t just keep up; she challenged me. She spoke of business, war, and administration as if she had spent her entire life mastering them. She had even corrected me once-exining theponents of an antidote for Lycanthropy. And she had been right. That antidote had saved one of my finest soldiers after he was attacked by King Lucius''s forces. The poor Northern King still held a grudge against me for killing his wife. Not that I med him. She had been a dangerous temptress, and I had never been interested in her-not until that final day. I smirked at the memory and shook my head. Lucius could wait. "See? You''re thinking about her again." I shot Leonidas an irritated nce. "Why do you keep bringing this up? Do you have feelings for that woman?" Leonidas hummed, unashamed. "I do. Even now." His admission sent a spark of irritation through me, only to be reced by mild confusion. "But I figured this infatuation-this admiration-would onlyst a season. Because, Your Majesty-" He paused, his unreadable gaze locking onto mine. "Ruby Lucienne... suits you better as a mate." For a few moments, the room was so silent that one could have heard a pin drop. Then, slowly-bit by bit-a soft chuckle broke the stillness, growing into the loudestughter of the night. I couldn''t stop myself. My shoulders shook violently, and for the first time in ages, tears pricked at the corners of my eyes. "Mate?" Iughed again, utterly amused by what my Beta had just said. Wiping the moisture from my eyes, I took a deep breat. regain control of myself. "Beta Leonidas. Do I seem like someone destined for a mate?" And then, with a colder edge to my voice, I added- "No, I don''t, do I?" Leonidas remained unfazed, still bold enough to spout his nonsense. ."On the contrary, Your Majesty," he said, shifting back into hisposed stance- ever the dutiful Beta, his broad shoulders squared with conviction. "There''s no harm in having a loyal mate by your side. I believe you, too, deserve happiness." Chapter 29 The Tyrant''s Obsse66407 I fell silent, watching as Leonidas bid me goodnight, ced his report neatly on my desk, and disappeared behind the grand doors A cold, dark chuckle escaped my lips. "What utter nonsence." Shaking my head, I brushed off Leonidas'' words with ease. For now, I had something far more intriguing to focus on. I let the music-still flowing from Ruby''s fingertips-pull me in once more, my gaze locked onto the screen that disyed the woman who, unknowingly, had ensnared my attention in a way no one else ever had. Dominic was a fool who had traded a diamond for filth in the gutter, And me? I had always been drawn to things that shined. Subscribed 0 Likes Chapter 40 hapter 40: The Masquerade Ball Chapter 40: The Masquerade Ball Ruby''s POV The Ravenhold Pack had never known peace. And one of the reasons for that was someone who hade to embrace evil. Me. This time, I didn''t just poison my false mother-I poisoned Nathaniel as well. Poetic, really. Watching them writhe in agony, clutching their stomachs, their pained groans filling the air as panic once again gripped the pack. But this time, the setting had changed. Not in the grandeur of the usual dining hall, but during their precious afternoon tea-a small, intimate gathering now tainted with suffering. How does it feel, murderers? Painful? Of course, it is. This is merely a small taste of hell on earth. There''s still more waiting for you. One of my hands clenched tightly, hidden beneath the folds of my sleeve. This wasn''t just about my revenge. It was about what had happened just days ago. They had dared to mock Nora behind her back, ridiculing her failure to uncover the culprit behind Cami''s humiliation. Even after she returned their gold, after she admitted that whoever orchestrated the incident possessed magic on par with the Grand Witches. Even after she exined that the traces had vanished like smoke, impossible to follow. And still, they spat on her name. So, I gave them something else to choke on. The pack grew more restless. Fear seeped into their bones, whispers swirled about a hidden enemy hell-bent on their destruction. How convenient. Let them drown in their own paranoia. "Look, so many things have been happeningtely," one of the lower-ranked pack members whispered. "I''m starting to get scared," another replied. "Maybe it''s karma? Our Luna was hurt by the people she loved." Someone else, with a touch of bitterness, added, "Every action has consequences. This is just the result." These little conversations had bemontely. And I secretly enjoyed them. The stenching from Nathaniel and his wife was unbearable-sickly and rotten. The poisons were working perfectly. No life-threatening effects. Just suffering. "Have you double-checked the food and tea samples?" I asked, feigning concern. The healer, who also served as theb examiner, nodded, deep exhaustion etched into his furrowed brows. ¡°I''ve tested them five times, Luna. There''s nothing. Everything came out clean,¡± he answered. Biting my lip, I made sure to wear an expression of deep sorrow. "This is the second time something like this has happened." "I''m sorry, Luna. If I may suggest, perhaps you should take Lord and Lady Lucienne to the best hospital on the continent. Maybe the results will be different," he proposed. Oh, of course. What a wonderful idea. Too bad. No matter where they went, no matter who examined them, the poison would never be detected. I reached out, resting a hand on his shoulder, my gaze filled with gratitude. "I''ll consider your kind suggestion. Thank you for your hard work." "And my gratitude to you, Luna, for your trust in us." I gave him a weak smile, watching as he and his fellow healers walked away. Then, I turned back to my fake parents. With their current condition, that meant they wouldn''t be able to attend the Masquerade Ball hosted by the Sullivan family-one of the most prestigious noble families on the continent. What a shame. It was such an important event. But who cares? Sessfully unlocked! Cami, of course, wept endlessly, mourning what she called our parents. I stood beside her, offeringfort, ying the role of the dutiful, caring older sister. Chapter 40: The Masquerade Ball "Sister Ruby, what do we do...?" Sobbing, she buried her face in her hands. "Why is this happening again? What did our parents do to deserve this?" Her question only fueled the fire of my rage and hatred, making them burn even brighter. She dared to ask what wrong they had done. And worse, she dared to call those two filthy rats our parents. Hell would freeze over before I ever acknowledged them as mine. "Only the gods know, Cami," I replied, squeezing her shoulder as she sat at the edge of the bed. "But trust me, Alpha Dominic will catch the culprit. Sooner orter." "Does the culprit want to hurt us? But why?" she rasped. "When you hate someone, it doesn''t matter whether they''re good or evil-that hatred lingers," I exined in a voice soft yetced with venom. "And it won''t change unless they do." Her tears kept falling as she turned and threw herself into my arms. "This isn''t fair. What will happen to our parents, Ruby? Will they recover?" "They''ll be fine, Cami," I murmured, stroking her golden hair as she wept against my shoulder. "We mustn''t let this tragedy hold us back. If anything, we should still attend the masquerade ball-to represent our pack properly." She sniffled, considering my words. "Do we have to? What about our parents...?" "We have plenty of skilled guards and warriors to watch over them. Remember?" Finally, she nodded. "You''re right, Ruby. And we can''t let our pack down, can we?" Like a fool, she epted every word I fed her. "Yes, Cami." Afterward, I even helped her pick out a dress, making sure she looked like the delicate, fragile little creature she loved to portray. Dominic watched me with suspicion throughout the ordeal, but I ignored him, fastening Cami''s corset with gentle hands-barely restraining myself from tightening it just a bit too much. Her stomach was already the size of a medium balloon, and she still insisted on wearing a corset. The line between stupidity and sheer recklessness was razor- thin. "Sister?" she called in a half-whisper. "Hm?" Cami fidgeted under my skilled hands as I dressed her. "Do you think... I''ll be weed at the ball?" she asked hesitantly. I frowned. "I don''t see why you wouldn''t be, Cami." "But... I don''t know. I just feel afraid. Everyone already looks at me differently," she murmured, biting her lip, trembling. "Differently?" I mused internally. Did you mean like a whore? A disgrace? A bitch? Take your pick. As I adjusted the final details of her attire, Cami let out a heavy sigh. "It''s so unfair. Nora said the culprit disappeared without a trace. Ever since then, Dominic and I have been the talk of the entire continent. Our names are ruined." "Cami, this will all pass. I''ll make sure of it." She turned to face me. "You will?" I smiled as gently as I could. "I''ll find a way to clear your name. It''ll take time. But the results will be worth it." Those familiar blue eyes-so much like mine-widened in shock before filling with sheer delight. "Are you serious?" "Yes, Cami. When have I ever lied to you?" Without warning, she threw herself into my arms, clinging to me tightly, sobbing again-but this time, out of relief. "I don''t know what I''d do without you, Sister. You''re the best thing I have," she whispered. I hummed softly, pretending to bask in my fake sister''s affection. If only she knew who was truly behind her humiliation. If only she knew it was the Lycan King himself. I wondered how she would react. Would she shatter even further? Or would she desperately cling to whatever dignity she had left? The thought amused me. Chapter 40: The Masquerade Ball *** The Sullivan Masquerade Ball was nothing short of magnificent. The grand hall was a spectacle of opulence, bathed in the warm glow of golden chandeliers. Its towering ceiling was painted with intricate celestial designs, while cascading crystal lights hung from above, casting a dreamlike haze over the crowd. The air was thick with perfume-the heady blend of roses, jasmine, and wine mingling into a dizzying concoction. Guests swirled about invish silks and velvets, their faces hidden behind ornate masks. Music yed-a haunting symphony of strings and piano-drifting between conversations andughter. Cami clung tightly to Dominic''s arm, her grip possessive, her swollen belly a silent reminder of her triumph. A victory that proved she had sessfully stolen a Luna''s husband-her own sister''s, no less. At least, that was what many thought. Eyes followed them, hushed voices barely masking the gossip that rippled through the air. 1, on the other hand, felt suffocated under the weight of their pitying gazes. Who needed that? Pathetic. I sipped my champagne, forcing down the revulsion curling in my throat. And then- A strong arm wrapped around me from behind, warm breath ghosting over the shell of my ear. "Meet me in the garden." The voice was a whisper-low, smooth, like silk. My breath hitched. The touch, the presence-I knew exactly who it belonged to. And just as swiftly as he hade, he was gone. I set my ss down, my heartbeat unsteady as I slipped away, weaving through the sea of masked nobles until I reached the doors leading outside. The cool air kissed my flushed skin as I moved past the carefully trimmed hedges, the scent of night-blooming flowers filling my senses. There was no one here. Yet my heart knew-I was not alone. A shadow emerged from the darkness, stepping gracefully into the moonlight. Killian Rudwick. He stood there in his regal attire, the dark fabric draping his broad frame in an unfair disy of perfection. A mask perched over part of his face, framing those crimson eyes that burned like embers in the night. Despite the elegance of his clothes, he exuded danger, power-something untamed beneath all that silk and gold. My fingers curled into the fabric of my gown. "Did you miss me, darling?" Chapter 41 Chapter 41: A Dance Beneath the Moon Chapter 41: A Dance Beneath the Moon Ruby''s POV The full moon bathed Sullivan''s garden in a silver glow, casting long shadows over the lush greenery. And there, standing as if he owned the night itself, was Killian Rudwick. The King. My tormentor. My protector. The man whose absence I had felt so deeply these past few days. His crimson eyes gleamed-sharp and unreadable-as he greeted me with a knowing smirk. I remained rooted in ce, unable to force a single word past my lips. He strode toward me with the same arrogance he always carried, his movements deliberate and controlled. How dare he act soposed after ignoring me for more than a week? Ourmunication had suddenly been cut off, and I wondered why. Frustration burned within me, but I refused to show it -or at least, that was my intention at first. Leia, my wolf, let out a small chuckle in my mind. ''I think you should stop being so stubborn'' I nearly rolled my eyes before replying through our link, ''Oh, really? And here I thought you and I agreed on everything'' Leia let out an irritated growl, and I could practically picture my wolf turning her back on me. ''Lying to yourself is pointless. You wanted to see him, and you''ve been restless these past few days because you haven''t'' ''I have my reasons for that, I muttered internally. ''Whatever you say. If I were you, I''d just take this sexy man. Viin or not, he''s the better choice'' Before I could respond, the link was severed-one-sided and abrupt. Killian knew. Of course, he knew. I bit the inside of my cheek, wondering what I should do. Backing away wouldn''t work, but moving closer felt just as wrong. As Killian stepped forward, towering over me, his presence became an unshakable force. I should have turned away. I should have left him standing there. But I didn''t. "No answer for me?" My hands clenched at the sides of my gown. That man seemed to enjoy the reactions he provoked from me. Lying had nevere easy to me-it had taken tremendous effort to master. It was an achievement that I could now y mind games and deceive the traitors within my ranks. I had worked hard for that. But in front of him-this King-I was powerless. Even if I tried, he could smell my lies from miles away. "Did I make you angry?" Killian smirked. "Ah, I love this fiery temper of yours. Would you care to show me a little more of it?" "Forgive me, Your Majesty," I finally rasped, bowing respectfully. It was a good way to start a civil conversation with this wicked man. "I did not mean to offend you with my discourteous behavior. I simply do not know how to act after so much time apart." Killian narrowed his eyes. "What is this way of speaking?" "What do you mean, Your Majesty?" ound you "Ruby Lucienne, I know you to be a refined and well-mannered woman. But we have long since abandoned formalities- especially when we have shared warmth in... various ways Sessfully unlocked! Heat rushed to my face, burning bright red. The earned a deep, tumblingugh from him. This cruel man knew. Again. He knew I was angry about our suddenck ofmunication, about the way he had disappeared without a word. In short, about his absence. Chapter 41: A Dance Beneath the Moon "You''re mad. Just admit it." I finally relented. "I have my reasons for acting a certain way, Your Majesty." "Including frustration, irritation, and...?" "Fine, fine. You''re right about everything, Your Majesty." "Ah, finally. It''s good to see you being honest, Ruby," he said, a hint of amusement in his tone. I had no interest in responding or continuing this conversation. Let the man understand that a woman could be truly terrifying when she was angry. I was on the verge of forgetting his status altogether. "So, I take it there''s still something you want to say to me." ncing at Killian, I sighed. I had anticipated this. That man would never ept the word no. "We had an agreement," I finally said, my voice remaining calm despite my frustration. "At the very least, I should know where the benefits lie." "Our deal still stands, Ruby. What exactly are you worried about?" I faltered as Killian took another step closer. "It''s just that... y-you disappeared without any exnation... a-and.....¡± "And you think I did it on purpose?" he interrupted, unimpressed. I wanted to say yes, but that didn''t seem like a good idea. Then again, if I thought about it logically, I shouldn''t have been this angry or upset as long as our agreement remained intact. Killian was a king-a ruler who governed an entire kingdom. He had his people and countless responsibilities to attend to. Surely, his time was limited. All the attention he had given me thus far should have been more than enough. Maybe... maybe I was the one with the problem here. "I apologize, Your Majesty," I lowered my head, feeling small and ashamed. "Well then, I''m d this misunderstanding has been cleared up. You realized my reasons even before I exined, didn''t you?" he asked effortlessly. Those crimson eyes-red as a sea of blood-gleamed under the moonlight. Killian and the word ''sorry'' would never belong in the same sentence. And he was never going to say it. So what was the point of waiting for something that would never "Yes, Your Majesty," I paused, rubbing one arm with my other hand. "But I still want to question that agreement-" Killian let out a quiet, deep chuckle. "Oh, Ruby," he mused, tilting his head as if my words entertained him. "There''s no need to dance around the subject. Right now, you miss me." I stiffened. "I do not miss you." He leaned in, his breath ghosting over my skin. "Liar." I clenched my fists, determined not to let him win so easily. But it was always a losing battle. "You could have at least sent word." "True. But I assure you, the matters I dealt with were grave," he admitted, his voice softer now. "Especially those concerning the kingdom. And..." His eyes darkened slightly. "Dominic has been tormenting you, hasn''t he?" I swallowed hard. He hadn''t touched me-not in the way a mate should-but his presence alone, his words, his games... He was killing me, slowly, piece by piece. And Killian knew. He always knew. "It''s nothing I can''t handle," I said, forcing indifference. Killian exhaled through his nose, displeased. "A reasonable answer, yet you''re still angry with me." I met his gaze sharply and admitted, "Of course, I am." His lips curved slightly. "Then, allow me to make amends." Before I could ask what he meant, he extended his hand toward me, a rare gentleness softening his expression. "Dance with me." Chapter 41: A Dance Beneath the Moon I stared at his hand, heat slowly creeping up my cheeks. I should have refused. And yet, I ced my hand in his. Killian pulled me closer, guiding me effortlessly as if we had danced like this a thousand times before. The night wrapped around us, the soft hum of crickets and the distant melody of the masquerade setting the rhythm of our steps. His grip was firm yetforting, his warmth a striking contrast to the cool night air "You look breathtaking," he murmured, his lips brushing close to my ear. I felt myself preen under thepliment. I had chosen this dress carefully-the deep blue fabric entuated my figure, the delicate embroidery shimmering beneath the moonlight. "You''re not so bad yourself," I muttered, still clinging to my earlier resentment. Killian chuckled, low and rich. "Sharp tongue... and yet you melt so beautifully in my arms." I hated how right he was. Our dance slowed, shifting into something else entirely. His arms encircled me, holding me in a way that felt.... safe. It was strange. I had never felt safe in anyone''s presence before, and yet with him, the weight on my shoulders seemed to lift, if only for a moment. Is this what it feels like to be protected? Rather than the one who protects? I let my head rest against his chest, listening to the steady rhythm of his heartbeat. He was about to say something when- Footsteps. Hurried, sharp against the gravel path. Panic surged through me as I tensed, instinctively stepping back. Killian reacted instantly, grabbing my wrist and pulling me into the shadows of the garden, concealing us behind the thick hedges. The figure that entered the garden was not who I had expected. Cami. I frowned. What is she doing here? Wasn''t she supposed to be with Dominic? She hurried along the pathway, her expensive gown billowing around her ankles. Both hands instinctively cradled her swollen stomach, the undeniable proof of the new life growing within her-born from her affair with Dominic. Cami looked restless and frustrated, and there was a trace of anger in her expression. But what shocked me more than her presence... was the person who emerged after her. A stranger. A man. And then he spoke, his voice low, biting with usation. "Is this really my child, Cami?" Oh, this was unexpected. Subscribed Chapter 42 Chapter 42: New Scandal Ruby''s POV "Wow, now this is a jackpot of a revtion." I ignored Leia''s sudden exmation. The gears in my mind were still turning, working hard to process every word that had just left the stranger''s mouth. Did I hear that correctly? Did he just ask Cami if the baby was his? Dear God. That woman is a walking disaster. How many men had she been with for someone to question the child''s paternity so boldly? And what did this mean for her rtionship with Dominic? The worst part? I was just as fooled as everyone else-if this revtion was true. No, not just me. I was certain even Nathaniel had no idea... I barely registered Killian beside me anymore. I would have to thank himter for tolerating my impolite distraction. My full attention was locked onto the unfolding scene before us, my curiosity burning far beyond reason. Cami hesitated, her expression flickering between anger and panic before she forced a mask of outrage to take precedence. "That''s ridiculous! We''re not together anymore!" she snapped. The man crossed his arms, unimpressed. "That doesn''t change the fact that we were still sleeping together just a few months ago. And if I do the math, that lines up perfectly with the timing of your pregnancy announcement." Cami stiffened, her hands protectively cradling her stomach. "This isn''t your baby," she hissed. "Stop making up ridiculous usations." The man didn''t back down. "We both know what kind of arrangement we had. Nobels, nomitments-but it wasn''t just a one-time thing, Cami." I mulled over his words. So, Cami had been involved with this man for an extended period? Since when? I didn''t even know this man-not in the slightest. Cami had never been close to anyone, never brought or introduced any man to us. At one point, I had felt sorry for her- this young woman whom I had once considered my dear little sister-struggling to find her true mate. That was then. Now, it was clear that this girl was even crazier than Nora when it came to men. The chestnut-haired man ran a hand down his face, a mix of exhaustion and frustration evident in his features. "And now, out of nowhere, you suddenly have a ''mate'' and an heir? Forgive me if I have my doubts." "Your doubts are baseless!" Cami insisted. "Cami Lucienne. Do you need me to count the number of times we''ve been together?" Cami took a step back as the man advanced toward her. "Can you give me a solid argument about the timing of your pregnancy? No? Of course not." The pregnant blonde folded her arms, exuding an arrogance she rarely disyed in public. "Listen to me. Whether this child is yours or not, you will never have him. And I will never acknowledge you as his father." That ignited the nameless man''s fury. ¡°Are you looking down on me? Just because I''m a Gamma!?" he roared. "See? You admit it yourself!" Cami shot back in the same sharp tone. The man growled. "I am more than capable of providing for you, Cami. I mean it-why do you always undere mate me!?" "Because the facts say otherwise," Cami answered coldly. My wolf sneered in my mind. ''Hmm... how ruthless. Does she really think her pride is worth that much?" Sessfully unlocked! I didn''t bother responding to my wolf, who was busy mo ng and ridiculing Cami- though I agreed with every single point she made. She wasn''t wrong. That woman wasn''t even worth a price. The man''s voice suddenly softened just a little. Chapter 42: New Scandal "I would be grateful if you just told me the truth, Cami. I swear, I would never hurt you-let alone our baby-" "He is not yours! How many times do I have to say it!?" Cami''s roar thundered through the garden, her arms wrapped tightly around herself as if she could shield the unborn child within. "Leave! Leave me alone!" She tried to drive the nameless man away, but of course, he didn''t budge. I swallowed hard, trying to process everything I had heard so far. My mind reeled from the implications. The bottom line? Cami had slept with another man. And the one confronting her now seemed to have more than enough reason to argue that he was the father of her child. My fingers curled into fists. This is unbelievable. The baby wasn''t Dominic''s. Cami''s eyes darted around frantically, as if searching for an escape. "Cami... please, we can talk about this rationally, calmly-" "I don''t owe you any exnation," she snapped. "I have a new life now. Stop contacting me." Fury red in the stranger''s eyes again as he scoffed. "So that''s it? You''re just going to pretend I don''t exist? Forever?" "What else do you expect? We''re done!" Cami''s blue eyes red daggers at the man, her face flushed with anger. Her hands were clenched so tightly that she was close to drawing blood-especially with those sharp nails of hers. Then, she pulled something from her pocket-a piece of paper, which she held up for him to see. Even from this distance, I could see the markings of an official document. Cami''s face drained of all color. I had no idea what was written on it, but I knew that she knew. "What do you have to say about this, Cami?" Her lips trembled before she steadied herself, taking a deep breath. "Y-you..." Cami stammered. The man-Cami''s former lover-grinned sharply. "Finally showing that expression, huh? You''re easy to provoke, it seems. That''s right. This is proof of your first visit to the hospital." Cami trembled, growing even paler. She was at aplete loss for words. "From your very first visit, I counted back to thest time we were together, and wouldn''t you know it? The timing matches perfectly," he continued, clearly feeling victorious in his argument. "Why so quiet? Ah, so you''re finally admitting that the baby isn''t your brother-in-w''s?" he pushed, angercing his words. "I don''t know what you''re talking about," Cami hissed before turning on her heel and rushing away, leaving the man standing there, his expression dark. I remained silent, my breathing in short, uneven bursts. So it was true. The baby wasn''t Dominic''s. This changed everything. God, my head ached just thinking about it. That woman was truly something else. Killian, who had been standing beside me, let out a quiet chuckle. "My, my. Your dear sister is quite skilled at luring men into her bed." I shot him an annoyed look, still too overwhelmed to find the right words. "Don''t call her my sister!" He smirked. "Ah, my mistake." Before I could formte another thought, Killian grasped my wrist, guiding me out of our hiding ce. My mind raced with endless possibilities. This revtion-this undeniable truth-was the perfect weapon. Chapter 42. New Scandal But I needed proof, I needed that document. And once I had it, I would make sure everyone knew the truth. A vivid image formed in my mind of how I would expose Carri''s lies. Dominic would kill her without mercy Nathanie would cast her aside. And perhaps only her mother would still care. Killian, still holding my hand, hummed as if he could read my thoughts. "A dangerous idea is taking shape inside that tiny head of yours." I exhaled sharply, my expression hardening. "This is an opportunity I won''t waste." Killian''s crimson eyes gleamed with approval. "I wouldn''t expect anything less." For a moment, I hesitated, studying him. Despite everything-despite the transactional nature of our arrangement-he had helped me at every turn. "...Thank you," I murmured, even surprising myself. He blinked, as if unustomed to hearing those words. Then, as always, he smirked. "Don''t thank me just yet, darling. The real fun is only beginning." I wanted to stay with him longer-I knew that. And something told me he felt the same way. But there were responsibilities we couldn''t ignore. Killian had his kingdom, his fortress still under reconstruction. And I had to ensure that Dominic didn''t grow suspicious of my absence. Killian stopped at the corner of the building, lifting my chin with his fingers. "Sometimes, I want to dissect that mind of yours," he murmured, his crimson eyes as cold and terrifying as a winter storm." You keep thinking about something else when you''re with me." My eyes widened in fear. "F-forgive me, Your Majesty. I¡ª" "Shhh..." Killian pressed his thumb against my lips, a smirk curving his cruelly handsome face. "I''m not angry. Let''s not misunderstand each other, alright?" I nodded quickly, and he rewarded me with a soft caress against my cheek. Without thinking, I leaned into his touch, silently apologizing for my rudeness and To my surprise, Killian forgave me easily. "Don''t worry about Cami," he murmured, pressing a lingering kiss to my cheek. "I''ll handle her. You just sit back and enjoy the results." I swallowed hard, nodding as he released me, stepping back into the shadows as if he had never been there at all. As I walked toward the ballroom doors, I kept my expression calm. Cami had no idea what wasing. Subscribed Chapter 43 Chapter 43: The Assembly of Kings Killian''s POV The grand meeting hall was a spectacle of power and influence, designed to remind every ruler who stepped inside that this world belonged to the strongest. Towering marble columns lined the vast chamber, intricately carved with depictions of conquests and bloodstained alliances. The ceiling stretched impossibly high, painted with constetions, as if the gods themselves presided over these discussions. A long obsidian table dominated the center of the room, its polished surface reflecting the dim glow of enchantednterns that hovered in the air-like ghosts of old pacts and broken oaths. If I were being honest, I would have much preferred to be by Ruby''s side. Aside from the sharp conversations we could share, she was an enjoyable woman-one whose sense of humor I found particrly entertaining. That included her voice, which was... "You''re starting again, oh mighty Lycan King." I nearly flinched-undignified-at the sudden voice cutting through our link. "Kai. It''s been a while," I replied internally. The arroganceced in Kai''s tone, my wolf, was a perfect reflection of my own. "That''s all you have to say?" "Not much hospitality for someone who disappeared and became impossible to reach." Kai sounded utterly unaffected by my sharp tone. "I have my reasons, and you should already know them. So just answer me- about the woman..." Now it was my turn to sever the link and block him out. Why was everyone-even Kai-so damn interested in my connection with the Luna of the Ravenhold Pack? This wasn''t the first time I had been in a rtionship with benefits like this. My head throbbed with a nauseating ache. This was starting to irritate me. And this meeting was just as infuriating. If not for the sheer number of opportunities I could seize-pulling them all into the palm of my hand-I wouldn''t have bothereding here. One dream had to be realized: transforming my kingdom into an empire, with every kingdom across thend bowing before 1. me. I lifted my teacup, sipping leisurely. Across the table, the others seemed to struggle to swallow even a single drop. I wondered why-until I finally noticed one thing. Tension crackled in the air like an approaching storm. The meeting had started with the usual matters-trade routes, border disputes, the shallow pleasantries exchanged between enemies disguised as allies. But everything shifted when he spoke. Lucius, the insufferable King of the Northern Kingdom, leaned forward, a sharp smirk ying on his lips. "Have you all heard thetest news?" No one dared to answer. Not yet, at least. "The death of Alpha Julius from the Silver Fang Pack," Lucius drawled, his voice as sharp as a rusted de slicing through the room''s tension. "A tragedy, isn''t it?" Once again, silence. Everyone knew about the massacre. Everyone knew who was responsible. But no one dared to say it out loud. No one-except Lucius. Sessfully unlocked! "I heard it was quite the spectacle," he continued, feigning sorrow. "The entire pack-wiped from existence. Men, women, children-not a single survivor. Brutal. Unforgivable, really!" Chapter 43: The Assembly of Kings Well, that was the firstpliment I''d received today. Thank you, Lucius. I look forward to seeing your head mounted on a pike at my kingdom''s gates. I remained silent as if my face were the very symbol of tranquility. Let him y his little game. I have time. "Julius was an old friend of mine." Letting out a sudden, sorrowful sigh, Lucius turned away as if he were mourning with an ocean''s worth of sincerity. In truth, this man was simply upset over losing his most trusted rat. "Seeing him die this quickly breaks my heart," hemented, shaking his head. ¡°I don''t even have a single thing from that poor man that I can keep as a memento." "He was so kind to me. How cruel fate is..." Every king and ruler present knew it was nothing but an act. Anyone who had ever met Alpha Julius was well aware of his foul nature. His deceitfulness, loud mouth, and greed weren''t even the worst of it. No one was mourning his death- truly. If anything, they should all be grateful that one more piece of trash had been taken out for good. "I suppose," I finally interjected, stirring the tea in my cup, "it depends on one''s tolerance for betrayal." Every head turned toward me. But I was me. Let them direct their attention at me- I would ept it with ease. On the other hand, Lucius''s smirk widened, sharp as a dagger. ¡°Ah, and here I thought you would deny your involvement. But no, the great King Killian Rudwick boldly admits to his crimes with pride." I lifted my gaze to meet his. "Lying bores me, King Lucius." He bared his teeth in something that wasn''t quite a grin. "Tell me, then-what justification do you have for ughtering an entire pack?" I took a slow sip of my tea, letting the silence stretch just long enough to carve deeper. "Someone wanted me dead," I said simply, apanied by a charming yet false smile-one I often used to deceive the world about the true state of my heart. "And when someone dares to reach for my throat, I make sure they never get the chance to do it again." Luciusughed-loud, furious, unrestrained. ¡°Oh, Killian. You finally found one of myckeys, didn''t you? And now what? You think this ends here?" He leaned forward, his voice dropping into a venomous whisper. "I want your head, Rudwick. Even now." The tension in the room became unbearable. A sorority elder, a frail yet formidable woman draped in ceremonial robes, mmed her staff against the ground. Magic crackled in the air, powerful enough to make the mes in thenterns flicker wildly. "Enough," shemanded, her voice carrying the weight of centuries. "You will not turn this gathering into a battlefield!" "My apologies, Elder. My intentions in attending this meeting were nothing but good," Lucius''s voice softened to a tone that could make any hound shiver. "However, when I see a criminal who has been allowed to act with impunity for ages, I simply cannot. I refuse to be a coward." The Elder remained unwavering. "You have an entire courtroom in which to speak of justice andw, King Lucius. But not here. Not now." I sighed in surrender. "Oh, Dearest Grand Elder. You heard the honorable King Lucius''s confession yourself, didn''t you? So don''t scold meter after this gathering is over." "YOU-" "King Lucius, mind your conduct!" The Elder mmed her staff again, her gaze sweeping over to me. "And you as well, King Killian." I raised both hands in mock surrender, though I didn''t forget to offer the old woman a warm smile. "I''m a good boy. Rx," I said innocently. Lucius turned his gaze toward the Elder, his nostrils ring. "See what you''ve done, Elder? This bastard grows arro because you always defend him!" "It is my duty to ensure order." The Elder''s sharp gaze flickered between us. "There is no favoritism among us. This meeting is adjourned." I smirked, leaning back as Lucius was forced to restrain himself. But just as I was about to take another sip of tea, a scream echoed through the hall. Ah, here it is. My little performance-the masterpiece of the day. Then, a body crashed onto the table. One of Lucius''sckeys. Dead. Chapter 43: The Assembly of Kings Gasps and screams erupted from the gathered rulers. Chaos ensued as everyone scrambled to distance themselves from the blood now pooling across the table. The stench of death hung thick in the air. Beta Leonidas, ever the efficient shadow by my side, stood unwavering. "As requested, Your Majesty." Lucius''s furious scream nearly shattered the room. "You! How dare you, Rudwick! I curse you-" I rose to my feet, unleashing the full weight of my dominance. "Never challenge me, Lucius," I warned, my voice a low, lethal growl. "The consequences are far worse than death." "CHALLENGE YOU!? YOU STARTED ALL OF THIS, KILLIAN!" "YOU-STAY WHERE YOU ARE, YOU WRETCHED BEAST! RUDWICK!" Lucius roared curses and usations of murder, but I had long since stopped caring. When his soldiers moved to charge at me, a singlemand left my lips. The moment I unleashed my dark magic, they all fell to their knees. "Disrupt my life again, and I will erase your kingdom from existence." I lifted a hand in a casual farewell. "Until our next meeting, King Lucius." Without another nce, I turned and strode out of the hall, Leonidas and my loyal warriors swiftly closing in around me. Once outside, Leonidas effortlessly fell into step beside me. "I have what you asked for." I didn''t slow my pace. "Good." Leonidas handed me a small scroll. "It took some effort, but I managed to track down the hospital records. The bribe worked. These are Cami''sb results." I halted, flicking my fingers to unroll the parchment. My eyes skimmed over the words, and with each line, my smirk widened. Not Dominic''s child. Perfect. I rolled the scroll back up and turned to Leonidas. "I should give you a raise." Leonidas smirkedzily. "I won''t argue with that." A satisfied hum left my lips. The next step was contacting Ruby. With this, we had everything we needed. And I now had plenty of reasons to visit the Ravenhold Pack. I was looking forward to Ruby''s expression when she realized it had taken less than 24 hours to obtain the proof she wanted. I enjoyed that look of admiration in her eyes every time I did something for her. I had just begun savoring the possibilities when a very familiar voice shattered my thoughts. "Killian." Damn it. I turned, barely hiding my irritation as Daphne stepped into view. "Can we talk?" Subscribed Chapter 44 Chapter 44: A Thorn is Removed Killian''s POV I had just started making ns to visit Ravenhold when Daphne Marjorie appeared, an unwee presence. She stood at the doorway of my study, arms crossed, a sour expression on her face. For a moment, I wondered if I had been too tolerant of her over the years, allowing her to believe she held any real influence over my affairs. Arrogance had long been ingrained in her, and her persistence was nothing short of unbearable. Or perhaps, the woman had simply forgotten her ce. "What is it, Daphne?" I asked, already growing weary of the conversation that was bound to happen. "I need to speak with you," she demanded curtly. I leaned back in my chair, exhaling slowly. The veins in my head felt like they were about to bulge. "I don''t have time for this," I replied coldly. Her lips pressed into a thin line, but I saw the hesitation in her eyes. She was desperate for an answer-perhaps one she already knew but refused to ept. "Go back to your room," I ordered, not bothering to look at her as I skimmed the documents on my desk. "I''ll call for you when I have the time." She frowned and stepped forward. "Can''t we do this now? I need to talk to you- this is important, Killian." My patience thinned. "Daphne," I said, my toneced with a warning of imminent doom, "I have no interest in your requests. Step back before you make me regret allowing you to linger here for so long." Something in my voice must have unsettled her because, for once, she retreated cautiously. Without another word, she turned sharply and left. Good. Leonidas was already waiting outside when I stepped out of my study. The Beta wasted no time voicing what I was already thinking. "Shall I escort her home, Your Majesty?" "I do appreciate your sharp mind, Leonidas." I tossed the document onto the desk, having lost all interest in working on it, and nced at the Beta. "Yes, she has outlived her usefulness here. Make the necessary arrangements for her departure." Leonidas curled his lips into a smirk and gave a brief nod before walking away to ensure everything was taken care of. Shifting my focus back to more important matters, I considered the evidence I had and the woman who would soon be brought to her knees. I should bring her something-a gesture of generosity for my visit. Perhaps jewelry or diamonds? That would certainly suit her. Ruby was the kind of woman who could wear anything and make it look wless. I knew this well. Yet, Ruby was a woman who found joy in simple things, as her husband was too busy with other women to pay her any real attention. I summoned the butler and instructed him to prepare an assortment of the finest chocte-based confections to bring with me tomorrow. There was no need to bother bringing anything for anyone else-only Ruby. By the time evening arrived, I had nearly forgotten about Daphne-until the servant I had sent to fetch her announced her arrival. She entered without the slightest show of respect (one day, she might lose a few fingers-or her head-if she kept this up), her usual elegance tainted by the barely concealed anger in her steps. "I''m not here for pleasantries." I regarded her with an expression devoid of emotion, allowing her to spill whatever she hade to say. "Why?" she asked, her emotions rising with each word. "Why are you involving yourself with Luna Ruby?" Ah, so they had been caught. Not that I was unaware or particrly concerned about others knowing a little about my illicit affair with the Luna of the Ravenhold Pack. It simply didn''t matter. I didn''t even bother looking up from the map spread across my desk. "Stay out of my affairs, Daphne." She scoffed. "I saw you with her at Sullivan''s masquerade ball. You escorted her back to the ballroom." I finally looked at her, my expression cold. "And?" "She''s married, Killian," Daphne hissed. "And you-you are the Lycan King! You shouldn''t be entangled in this mess." I leaned back in my chair, regarding her with veiled disgust. "My rtionships are none of your concern." Her anger fractured, reced by something far more desperate. "I''m doing this because I care about you," she said, her voice trembling. "I don''t want your reputation to be ruined over a woman whose pack is drowning in scandal." Chapter 44. A Thom is Removed I exhaled slowly before rising to my feet, my presence towering over her. "Enough!" I growled. She flinched in ce, stepping back in fear as my power leaked through, ready to choke the very air around her "You have overstepped the limits of the tolerance I have granted you, Daphne." Daphne paled gradually, stumbling over her words. ¡°I didn''t mean it that way. My intentions were only-" "Good intentions?" Iughed, a cruel, mocking sound that openly ridiculed her feeble excuse. "No. I have respected you as my cousin from the very beginning, and yet you have never once done the same for me, Daphne Marjorie" ¡°Do not set foot in this pce again until your mind is capable ofprehending my words," I hissed, my gaze cold and unyielding. I turned to the guards stationed at the entrance, unwilling to waste another second looking at her. "Take her away. Send her back to her parents'' home. I want her belongings removed from my kingdom before sunset." Daphne''s eyes widened in horror. "Killian, wait-" "Now." The guards moved swiftly, seizing her arms as she struggled against them. "You can''t do this! I''m your cousin! Killian!" Her screams faded as she was dragged from my study, her protests falling on deaf ears. Silence, atst. I exhaled, rubbing my temples. Finally, I could focus on more important matters-like the woman waiting for me in Ravenhold. "What could that woman be doing right now?" I recalled the masquerade ball. It was, perhaps, a moment I rather enjoyed after not seeing her for so long. It only confirmed what I already knew-she was bound to me, whether she realized it or not. Waiting for me every night. It wouldn''t be long before she truly fell into my grasp. I wanted to bring her here, to my kingdom. That way, I could see her whenever I pleased. And, well, she was useful-far more capable than most women I had encountered, who clung to me with nothing but a pretty face as their only asset. Beauty without intelligence was nothing more than a pebble. I took onest look at the evidence Leonidas had given me before securing it away safely. I supposed, in some small way, I could admit that I missed her. Perhaps visiting her chamber tonight wouldn''t be such a bad idea. Subscribed Chapter 45 Chapter 45: Bad and Good Day Ruby''s POV Anger consumes me, hot and searing. I hate today more than I can ever remember Maybe not, but for now, I''ll let myself believe it. The Alpha''s den is a disaster. No wonder the pack''s administration is always slow and disorganized no one here is actually doing the job. Papers are scattered across therge wooden desk, some stacked haphazardly, others spilling onto the floor and draped over the chairs. Dust clings to shelves packed with reports, records, and untouched decrees that should have been handled weeks ago. The air is thick with the scent of parchment and ink, stale and oppressive, as if this room had been abandoned long before Dominic left for what he called his honeymoon. Honeymoon. The word alone is enough to rekindle my fury. He left. Without telling me. When I asked the pack members about his whereabouts, they told me somewhat sheepishly-that Alpha Dominic and Cami had gone off to ''enjoy some time together. My so-called foster parents had the audacity to tell me to leave them alone, iming that after the chaos of their wedding they deserved some peace. Deserved? I clenched my fists, swallowing the words that threatened to spill out. Instead, I stepped into the abandoned room to clean up the mess he left behind. My wolf, Leia, was already grumbling in my head, saying we should just burn all these documents along with the entire room. It was the best idea she had heard all day, but it would also harm the pack. My loyalty was a curse, always making me care about others'' well-being. Leia, frustrated, finally severed our connection. I massaged my temples. "I''ll make them pay with every document I process." Oh, I have plenty of ns. Dominic hasn''t even had his turn at being poisoned yet. But this time, I had something far more entertaining in mind. Something much more enjoyable than thest two incidents. Dominic would definitely love it. As for Cami... well, she''d find out soon enough. Perhaps at one of their social gatherings or afternoon tea parties with thedies from the allied packs. It''s astonishing how someone who once adored Cami could turn so quickly. Then again, no woman in her right mind would tolerate infidelity-except for a brainless one, like Cami. Hours passed, and I barely noticed the sun beginning to set through the dust- covered window. My fingers ached from signing document after document, my back stiff from hunching over the desk, and my eyes burned from reading line after line of financial reports, patrol schedules, and alliance requests. At least the work was almost done. I had just allowed myself to lean back in my chair for a moment when a knock on the door pulled me back to reality. Gamma Ares entered, carrying a small stack of pending documents. He hesitated upon seeing me, guilt flickering across his face as he ced the papers down. "Apologies for the intrusion, Luna," he said, his voice quiet with genuine remorse. "These need to be reviewed." I sighed but waved a hand dismissively. "It''s fine." Ares hesitated again, ncing between the mess of papers and me. "This shouldn''t be Luna''s job.* I let out a humorlessugh, stacking the papers neatly before picking up the next sheet. "And yet, here I am, doing it. The Alpha won''t be back until his honeymoon is over, so someone has to take his ce." I caught the shift in his expression-pity. I hated that look. I didn''t need it. I didn''t want it. Ares quickly schooled his features. ¡°Forgive me, I didn''t mean to bring it up. I hope you can get some rest soon." I nodded, offering a brief word of thanks. Before he could turn to leave, I spoke up. "I have a question. Maybe this will sound like I''m being inattentive, but I''ve been dealing with a lottely." Anyone would understand what I meant, considering all the who mack and the various disgraceful scandals that had tarnished the Ravenhold Pack''s name-on the Sessfully unlocked! "How long have you been serving as Gamma?" I added. ort to restore to its former glory. The Gamma blinked, then gave me a polite smile. "My tenure is still young, Luna. Just a little over a month." "Ah, I see. Are youfortable in your position?" Chapter 45: Bad and Good Day Judging by his appearance, he was younger than Dominic and certainly younger than the previous Gamma, but what mattered was skill, not age. "Quitefortable. The warriors have weed me well, Luna,¡± he replied. I nodded. "Good to hear. In that case, report to me if anything negative happens around you or if you experience any issues." From his expression, the younger man seemed surprised by my words, but he nodded and epted them quickly. After that, he bid farewell, casting me onest nce before leaving. Even as his figure disappeared, his presence lingered in my thoughts. Gamma Ares. The new Gamma, recing the one who had followed Dominic blindly. Today was the day we spoke more than usual, and perhaps he was different. But there were no guarantees-everything could still go wrong. Just like the Beta who remained fiercely loyal to Dominic. I despised him. He should have been here, taking over the Alpha''s responsibilities, yet he imed he had to handle security matters for the pack. A convenient excuse, clearly, to leave me drowning in this endless pile of documents. He would be my next target. He had even been pleased when Dominic finally ended up with Cami, openly anticipating the birth of a child that wasn''t even Dominic''s. Pushing away my anger for now, I immersed myself once again in the remaining documents. Silence fell as I focused on my work. It had always been my way-pouring everything into something just to survive another day. Then, a voice. A voice I knew all too well. A deep baritone,ced with amusement and arrogance. "Working so hard, little Luna?" I jolted, my head snapping up so fast that my vision blurred. And there he was- Killian Rudwick, standing at the threshold of the Alpha''s Study, wearing his signature smirk, his crimson eyes gleaming in the dim light. My heart pounded as I shot up from my seat. "How did you get in here?" His smirk deepened. "Easily." He stepped forward, unhurried, as if he had all the time in the world. "And I have a reason, of course. Our cooperation, remember?" Cooperation? I narrowed my eyes. "What cooperation?" "Oh, of course... this one." Killian gestured between us with his finger, as if the answer should have been obvious. "Do you understand now?" "You know that''s not what I meant. What excuse did you use this time, Your Majesty?" I asked, half-annoyed. "Don''t think too hard about it." He waved a dismissive hand. "Why don''t we spend some time together? Your documents can wait." I nced at the paper in my hands. It was thest one. Killian wouldn''t take ''wait'' for an answer, and truth be told, he was far more interesting than these lifeless sheets of white. "As yourmand, Your Majesty. But I expect some exnations." I ced the document back on the desk and stepped around it to meet him and still maintained my scowl. Killian chuckled darkly. "Always so demanding, Luna." "You taught me well, Your Majesty." Our fingers brushed, and the intensity in his gaze sent heat coursing through my body. "Ah, I am a fine teacher, indeed." He murmured, a charming smile that was perfectly set on his ever-tempting lips. "Which means I should teach you another lesson today... don''t you think?" Chapter 46 0 Likes Chapter 46: Possession Chapter 46: Possession Killian''s POV When I arrived at the Ravenhold Pack, I had expected to be greeted by a sight I enjoyed-her bright blue eyes filled with mischief, her face radiant despite the hell she lived in. I had imagined her wearing one of those elegant dresses she favored, her hair catching the light just right, tempting me as always. How wrong I was. The moment Iid eyes on her, I wanted to kill someone. Pale. Exhausted. Frustrated. The dark circles beneath her eyes spoke of sleepless nights (even though I''m sure that the heavy duty just started today but I read it wrong), and the slight tremor in her fingers as she shuffled through the damned paperwork made my fury burn even hotter. The bastard had left her here, drowning in responsibilities, while he pranced around on his honeymoon with her whore of a sister. I had never imed to be a saint. I embraced my cruelty, my tyrannical rule, and my reputation as a monster. But this? This was something I would handle personally. No one interfered when I decided to that it was mine to deal with alone. Damn it. He would make them pay for this upfront today. And Nathaniel, along with his wife, would bear the cost of their behavior for a while. Perhaps torturing them with mind-breaking magic would be quite entertaining to watch. With Ruby, of course. The beautiful woman closed the distance between us, and I pulled out something I had promised on the night of the masquerade ball. Smiling, I handed her an envelope. "Here. Take it," I said. She blinked before epting it, her gaze fixed on me. Your Majesty?" "Open it and find out." Those blue eyes blinked innocently, making me want nothing more than to take her away and lock her in my kingdom. She hesitated for a moment before sliding her fingers under the seal. I watched her every move, noting the exhaustion on her face as she unfolded the papers and read each line. Shock. Anger. Frustration. Her fingers tightened around the edges of the document. A long sigh escaped her lips as she pressed her fingertips to her temple. "P-Positive. The child isn''t Dominic''s," she whispered. I smirked, satisfied. "Of course not." She exhaled deeply, trying to regain herposure. "Thank you," Majesty." she murmured, her gaze saying everything-she was sincere. "I know getting these results wasn''t easy, Your I waved a hand dismissively. "A small matter." A small matter when a mountain of gold had been exchanged for bribes. But what did I care? If it meant erasing that pathetic excuse of a mate from her life, I would do it again without hesitation. She moved to tuck the papers away, but before she could, I pulled her into my arms. It was something I had never really considered before-embracing someone. I couldn''t recall ever doing it with another woman, at least not gently. Affection was not something I gave freely. But with Ruby? It had been different from the start. "You''re so kind to me," she whispered, but I heard her clearly. "I''m not sure ''kindness'' is a word that should be associated with me." Sheughed, and it lifted a bit of my dark mood. "But you are. At least in some ways, whether you realize it or not, Your Majesty." Then, Ruby sighed against my chest, her fingers curling into the fabric of my coat. I gently rubbed her back, inhaling her scent. "You''re overworked. Just stop," I pleaded as I shifted to massage her temple. She scoffed lightly. "Someone has to do it, Your Majesty Sessfully unlocked! I tilted her chin up, forcing her to meet my gaze. "Not your Her lips parted as if to argue, but I silenced her with a kiss on the forehead, then another along her temple. She melted into me, and I reveled in the way she surrendered, the way she allowed me to be the only one she leaned on. I had stationed my men outside the Alpha''s Den, ensuring that no one would interrupt. And so, naturally, Ruby ended up on Chapter 46: Possession myp, her soft body fitting against mine as if she belonged there. Every now and then, I brushed my lips against hers, tasting, teasing, yet restraining myself from going further. It was maddening. "How was your day?" I asked, my fingers stroking the nape of her neck. She scoffed. ¡°You mean the endless paperwork, exhaustion, and being left behind?" I growled at the reminder of her pathetic excuse of a mate. "Have you eaten?" She hesitated. I already knew the answer. Reaching into my coat, I pulled out the small box I had brought with me. ¡°Here.¡± She stared at it, confused. "Chocte?" I smirked. "I know you have a sweet tooth." She narrowed her eyes. "And how do you know that?" I leaned closer, my lips brushing against the shell of her ear. "It''s easy." She didn''t respond, but something flickered in those beautiful blue eyes. Warmth. Something dangerously close to admiration. Honestly, it still feels strange to me to see a woman-Ruby included-being so easily pleased by something this simple. Usually the women around me are not like that. And that makes me feel as if I''m gaining a new perspective, a fresh view of the world. Ruby, too, has a part of her that desires beautiful things for herself, and I understand that well enough. But she is the type who cherishes the meaning behind what is given to her. Was something this small truly beyond Dominic''s ability? Seeing her so joyful, like a child now, rekindled my thirst for blood and made me want to demand his head right this insta Then, unbidden, Ruby cupped my cheek and pressed her lips to mine. It was hesitant at first, as if she wasn''t sure if she had the right. But the moment her lips moved against mine, something primal and possessive unfurled in my chest. Only for her. I took over instantly, deepening the kiss, sliding my fingers through her hair as I devoured her. She moaned softly, her body pressing into mine, and I knew then, the dark part of my soul screamed to im this woman in a way I had never even considered before. Not about a word of three letters, but something far more intimate than anything of that kind. I suppressed that desire as much as I could and focused on what was in front of me. And when our kiss ended, all I saw was the sheer perfection of the woman before me. My hand hovered above her, gently brushing away the golden strands that had fallen across her face. "Beautiful." Subscribed 0 Likes Chapter 46: Possession myp, her soft body fitting against mine as if she belonged there. Every now and then, I brushed my lips against hers, tasting, teasing, yet restraining myself from going further. It was maddening. "How was your day?" I asked, my fingers stroking the nape of her neck. She scoffed. ¡°You mean the endless paperwork, exhaustion, and being left behind?" I growled at the reminder of her pathetic excuse of a mate. "Have you eaten?" She hesitated. I already knew the answer. Reaching into my coat, I pulled out the small box I had brought with me. ¡°Here.¡± She stared at it, confused. "Chocte?" I smirked. "I know you have a sweet tooth." She narrowed her eyes. "And how do you know that?" I leaned closer, my lips brushing against the shell of her ear. "It''s easy." She didn''t respond, but something flickered in those beautiful blue eyes. Warmth. Something dangerously close to admiration. Honestly, it still feels strange to me to see a woman-Ruby included-being so easily pleased by something this simple. Usually the women around me are not like that. And that makes me feel as if I''m gaining a new perspective, a fresh view of the world. Ruby, too, has a part of her that desires beautiful things for herself, and I understand that well enough. But she is the type who cherishes the meaning behind what is given to her. Was something this small truly beyond Dominic''s ability? Seeing her so joyful, like a child now, rekindled my thirst for blood and made me want to demand his head right this instant. Then, unbidden, Ruby cupped my cheek and pressed her lips to mine. It was hesitant at first, as if she wasn''t sure if she had the right. But the moment her lips moved against mine, something primal and possessive unfurled in my chest. Only for her. I took over instantly, deepening the kiss, sliding my fingers through her hair as I devoured her. She moaned softly, her body pressing into mine, and I knew then, the dark part of my soul screamed to im this woman in a way I had never even considered before. Not about a word of three letters, but something far more intimate than anything of that kind. I suppressed that desire as much as I could and focused on what was in front of me. And when our kiss ended, all I saw was the sheer perfection of the woman before me. My hand hovered above her, gently brushing away the golden strands that had fallen across her face. "Beautiful." Subscribed 0 Likes Chapter 47: Romantic or Poetic Cruelty Chapter 47 Chapter 47: Romantic or Poetic Cruelty Chapter 47: Romantic or Poetic Cruelty Ruby''s POV It has been five days since the Alpha of the Ravenhold Pack abandoned his duty- five days in which I have watched the pack flounder under the ipetence of the people he chose to "lead." I have had enough. The Beta is just as useless as his Alpha, and I have finally reached my breaking point. The decision came swiftly and openly. I stood in the center of the pack''s meeting hall, surrounded by a crowd of wolves. My voice rang through the air-firm and resolute¡ªas I listed every failure of the former Beta: his negligence, his inability to make decisions, and his utter disregard for the pack''s needs. I relished the look on his face as he was publicly humiliated. The murmurs of agreement only added to his disgrace. If that wasn''t enough, even some of the elders voiced scathing remarks about him, their words cutting through the silence. I was grateful that a few of the elders were still on my side, though it had taken effort and subtle maniption. The old ones thrived on praise and having their egos stroked. And me? I merely took advantage of that. Especially now, when one of the elders'' sons had be an important part of this pack. When I announced his dismissal, Nathaniel''s face turned red. He stepped forward, seething with anger. "You dare make this decision without consulting me!?" I turned to him, my gaze sharp enough to cut. "As Luna, I hold just as much authority as the Alpha-especially when the Alpha has abandoned his position or is absent." I shifted my gaze toward the crowd before settling on the elders seated in their seats of honor. Smiling, I bowed respectfully to them before continuing. "The elders have also approved of this decision, Father. Or do you intend to defend someone who has failed to uphold his responsibilities to our pack?" Without sparing him another nce, I called forth the new Beta. Andreas, Elder Josse''s son, stepped forward. I had thoroughly investigated his background, down to the smallest detail. He was everything a Beta should be-loyal, diligent, and fiercely protective of his pack. In short, he was highlypetent. As I introduced him to the gathering, I saw a glimmer of hope in the eyes of the pack members. This was the kind of leadership they deserved. Nathaniel and Dominic? They could both go to hell. I couldn''t care less. After the coronation, Nathaniel caught up to me, his voice already raised. "Ruby, you have no right to make that decision!" I stopped, slowly turning to face him. My expression remainedposed, even though every fiber of my being wanted to tear this pathetic As I said, Fath Creature apart. I do have the right," I replied calmly. "If anything, you should be grateful that I didn''t remove the former Beta entirely for his negligence. He does not deserve that title, nor does he deserve to be called a true Beta." "But you were supposed to consult me-or your Alpha!?" he shouted. "The Alpha is not here, and you know this pack was abandoned by him without informing me first." I met his gaze, my hands clenched into fists at my sides. "As Luna, it is my duty to lead when ipetence takes hold. Do you dare name one good thing that Beta has done-aside from me?" ¡°Still, I am here, and I-" "ording to ourws, a former Alpha is not allowed to interfere in pack affairs and may only act as a regr pack member. The father I know is a man who respects thew. Isn''t that right?" I asked, my smile deliberately designed to make his blood boil. Nathaniel''s nostrils red, but before he could respond, I was already walking away. I had no interest in entertaining his misced anger. The day ended just like that. I ignored the minormotions Nathaniel caused, still fixated on the dismissal of that useless Beta. I couldn''t understand why he was so adamant about keeping that man. It felt like there was something more to it-something bevond simple lovalty or support. Perhaps he wasplicit in their wrongdoings. I needed to investigate. Sessfully unlocked! Night fell, and the moon cast its pale glow over the man all. The house was silent, save for the rustling leaves outside. I had locked all the doors, ensuring no one would disturb me. My eyesnded on the envelope Killian had given me earlier- yet another piece of evidence exposing Cami''s foolishness. Who would have thought that the baby wasn''t Dominic''s? Chapter 47: Romantic of Poetic Cruelty Even as someone who had suffered from their affair, I hadn''t seen thising. So, she also had several men wrapped around her finger. What was wrong with that woman? She was like a desperate cat in heat, starving for attention-so vastly different from the image she painted of herself as a demure and gentle woman. I held the envelope in my hands, weighing my next move. There was no need to rush. I wanted to savor this, to bide my time until the perfect moment. Perhaps I would reveal the truth when Cami reached the peak of her pregnancy-or even after she gave birth. The child itself was innocent, and I wouldn''t punish a baby for the sins of its parents. No, the burden of that revtion would fall solely on Cami and Dominic-and it would destroy them. A faint smile yed on my lips as my thoughts drifted to Killian. He had mentioned a gift, and I couldn''t help but wonder what he meant by that. His definition of a gift was often unconventional, to say the least-if not outright excessive. I wasn''t sure whether to call it romantic or a form of poetic cruelty. Suddenly, a piercing scream shattered the silence. I shot to my feet, quickly hiding the envelope in a safe ce before rushing out of the room. The guards had already gathered, their anxious expressions guiding me toward the source of the sound. It wasing from Nathaniel''s chamber- and my fake mother''s. As I stepped inside, a foul stench hit me first. A putrid, sickening odor that made my stomach churn. Even the guards hesitated to enter. And then I saw it. My fake mothery sprawled on the bed, her body covered in grotesque wounds oozing with pus and emitting a rancid smell. Her once wless skin was now marred with horrifying blemishes, and her shrieks pierced the air like knives. Nathaniel stood beside her, pale and trembling-until his own scream joined hers. His body convulsed, the same festering wounds spreading across his skin as he copsed onto the floor. "W-what is happening here!?" Panicked, I turned to the guards. "Call the healer. Now!" For a moment, all I could do was stare, watching in feigned shock and helplessness as my poor parents writhed in agony. I pretended not to understand, not to have a clue as to what was happening. But deep down, I already knew the truth. This was the work of someone I knew all too well. The Lycan King''s gift. A hidden smile curled at my lips. That man always kept his promises. Subscribed 1 Likes Chapter 45: Never Mess with a Patient Person Chapter 48: Never Mess with a Patient Person Chapter 48 Chapter 48: Never Mess with a Patient Person Ruby''s POV The pnded hard on my cheek, its sting sharp and humiliating as it echoed across the open field. My head jerked to the side, and for a moment, the world felt blurry. A collective gasp arose from the pack members around us, their shock evident. I straightened myself slowly, my hand trembling as it touched the spot where Dominic had struck me. My eyes burned with unshed tears-not from the pain, but from his audacity. This bastard had just returned from his damn vacation, and this was the reward I got after dealing with all the mess he left behind? "How dare you!" he thundered, his voice filled with rage amid the crowd of the pack. "You had no right to dismiss my Beta without my permission!" I tried to remain calm, even as my cheek burned and my body trembled with anger and hatred toward this man. "I had every right." My voice matched his in intensity, refusing to back down-I was someone of status too. That seemed to catch Dominic off guard for a moment. Then, I continued, "When an Alpha abandons his duties and leaves his pack to fend for themselves, someone has to take responsibility. Your Beta failed this pack, Dominic! You left me no choice but to act." His eyes narrowed, his fury only growing as he refused to ept my words. "You have no authority! I am the Alpha!" I stepped closer, my own anger boiling over. "And you think an Alpha has the right to abandon his pack for days?" A bitterugh escaped me. Meanwhile, the people around us shifted uneasily, knowing this wouldn''t end well. "You proudly call yourself an Alpha?" My gaze traveled from his head to his toes, almost mockingly. "Think clearly, Dominic. You are an Alpha who neglected his responsibilities while someone else was left to clean up your mess. And who else should have done it, Dominic? Of course, me!" His face darkened, and he growled, "How dare you speak to your Alpha like that! You insolent woman!" Before I could brace myself, he raised his hand again. But this time, I caught his wrist mid-swing. My grip tightened as I met his gaze, the fury within me surging like a wildfire, licking at the edges of my consciousness. With a voice as cold as ice, I asked, "Is this how you repay me, Alpha? After everything I''ve done for you?" And then, I pped him back. The sound was deafening, a sharp crack silencing the murmurs around us. Dominic stumbled slightly, more out of shock than the force of my strike. Gasps rippled through the crowd as all eyes turned toward us. To them, this was a sight they never thought they would witness-a Luna, once as obedient to her Alpha as an ox led by a nose ring, daring to fight back. They were right about that. Before. And I admit, that was one of my greatest follies-clinging to the hope of being loved. How pathetic I had been, so desperate for affection, seeking it in a ce where it never belonged. "Y-you-you just pped me!?" "I merely returned the gift Alpha so generously gave me," I replied, my expression that of a perfectly wounded woman. "I am truly honored by your present, Alpha." Cami appeared out of nowhere, rushing to his side with tears streaming down her face. "Dominic! I''m so sorry," she whimpered, clutching him as if she could shield him from the humiliation. "I never should have forced you to go on that honeymoon." Then, Cami turned to me. Her eyes brimmed with desperation and pleading. "We never meant to make things difficult for you. Please, forgive us!" she sobbed. Dominic''s attention remained locked on me, though his hands held onto Cami. "Luna-" I cut him off with a sharp voice. "You should be grateful, Alpha. If it weren''t for me, the elders would have already stripped you of your title for neglecting your duties and dishonoring thews of this pack." His anger wavered, and for a fleeting moment, fear flickered across his face. His reaction was almost satisfying. I shifted my cold gaze to Cami, who was still clutching Dominic''s or "You should go check on our parents. They are Sessfully unlocked! Her tear-streaked face turned toward me, eyes wide in shock. "What? What happened!?" "Go and see for yourself," I said curtly, turning away. She hesitated before dashing off, her gown trailing behind her. Chapter 48: Never Mess with a Patient Person Midway through my journey, I was once again startled by Dominic. He grabbed my wrist, holding me in ce. "We need to talk." I stiffened at his words and want tiugh. Of course, what else did I expect from a man like him? He would never apologize. Narcissism and superiority wrapped in one arrogant existence-Dominic. I would never disgrace my noble family name by attaching it to his. I yanked my arm free and met his gaze. "You should go see the elders, Alpha Dominic. You owe them an exnation. That is an order." I didn''t wait for his response. Turning on my heel, I resumed my steps, ignoring the weight of his piercing stare on my back. Night had fallen by the time I finally found a moment of peace (I tried my best not to think about a certain someone in that kingdom). After days of endless chaos and responsibilities, I craved solitude more than anything. Leaving the residence behind, I wandered into the small town, letting the cool night air soothe my nerves. The streets were quiet, save for the asional murmurs of townsfolk. I allowed the wind to guide me until I found myself standing in front of a tavern. It wasn''t the most luxurious ce, but it had a cozy charm that drew me in. Warmntern light illuminated the interior, casting soft shadows over wooden tables and chairs. The rich aroma of roasted meat and freshly baked bread lingered in the air, making my stomach grumble. I chose a corner table, away from prying eyes, and ordered a simple meal-a hearty bowl of stew, a piece of warm bread, and a in mug of ale. For the first time in weeks, I allowed myself to rx. The stew was rich and vorful, the bread soft and buttery. Each bite felt like a small victory, a reminder that I could still find a sliver of joy amidst everything. But my peace was short-lived. "Luna Ruby of the Ravenhold Pack?" The voice froze me mid-bite. Slowly, I looked up, my heart pounding as I recognized the man standing before me. His dark eyes gleamed with familiarity, and a smile tugged at his lips. I knew that face. The man from the masquerade ball. The one who had argued with Cami in the garden. Chapter 49 Subscribed 1 Likes Chapter 49: A Tantalizing Offer Chapter 49: A Tantalizing Offer Ruby''s POV The spoon nearly slipped from my hand as I stared at the man standing before me. His presence was unexpected. At least, not this soon. This man-Cami''s lover (or perhaps her ex by now)-daring to meet me could only mean one thing: the situation had be urgent. I wondered if he had been waiting for this chance to talk to me. Had he been following me ever since I left Ravenhold Pack''s territory? My wolf let out a low growl in the back of my mind, a warning to stay calm. As much as I disliked being stalked, my wolf was right. I needed to keep myposure if I wanted answers. I finally nodded as respon, gesturing toward the empty chair across from me. He pulled it out and sat down with a quiet elegance that contrasted with the weariness etched into his face. Despite the weight pressing down on him, there was no denying that he was a handsome man. His strong jawline and sharp cheekbones were softened by slightly tousled ck hair that fell just above his eyes. His deep brown eyes, filled with something akin to regret, held my gaze for a moment before he blinked. He carried an air of authority, yet it was overshadowed by the burden he seemed to bear alone. I had to admit-Cami was impressive to have shaken a man as formidable as him. Noticing the tension in his posture, I waved over a waiter. "Please bring something for my guest," I said. But the man raised a hand, politely declining. "Thank you, Luna, but I''m fine. That won''t be necessary. I didn''t mean to intrude." His tone was courteous, yet there was hesitation beneath it, as if he wasn''t entirely sure whether he should be here. I took a slow sip of my beer, letting the silence stretch for a moment. "You''re not intruding," I replied, offering him a friendly smile. "If anything, I''d like to know why you''re here." He offered me a small smile, one that didn''t quite reach his eyes. "I apologize for my rudeness earlier. My name is Jake Smith. A wolf from the Rivermoon Pack." I didn''t particrly care about hisck of manners or the dy in introducing himself. My focus was on the small piece of information I had just received. That name caught my interest. Rivermoon was a small pack near the border, one I didn''t know much about. They stayed far from the politics ofrger packs like Ravenhold, let alone kingdoms like Sundrench, and their territory was dangerously close to the neighboring country. There wasn''t much interaction with them, but from what I knew, they were known to be a friendly pack with a well-structured system that ensured the welfare of their members. "Ruby Lucienne," I replied, though he clearly already knew who I was. He nodded. "Yes, I''ve heard about you." "From whom?" He hesitated for a moment, his smile fading slightly. "From someone close." I raised an eyebrow but said nothing-because, of course, I already knew the answer without him needing to borate. Instead, I took another sip of my beer, studying the man named Jake Smith carefully. There was something about the way he spoke, something that suggested he was more than just an ordinary pack member. A memory from the masquerade ball resurfaced in my mind. If I wasn''t mistaken, this man held an important status in his pack. It was evident in the way he carried himself-the confidence, the precision in his words-it all felt familiar. "I''m curious, Mr. Smith. You''re not just an ordinary wolf, are you?" I asked, my thumb absentmindedly tracing the rim of my beer ss, my gaze never leaving his. "These eyes can''t be fooled." His lips twitched into a faint smirk, amused by my question. "No, I suppose I''m not. I''m Rivermoon''s new Beta." I leaned back in my chair, not entirely surprised. "Congrattions. That''s an important role." "Thank you," he said, tilting his head slightly. "I ously." Sessfully unlocked! Despite the polite conversation, the atmosphere betweenres grew headed ced my spoon down after my second bite of stew, but the warmth in my stomach did little to ease the tension hanging in the air. "You didn''te here for small talk, did you?" I stared directly into his eyes. Beta Jake let out a long sigh. "No, I didn''t." Chapter 49: A Tantalizing Offer "Then get straight to the point, Mr. Smith. Time is ticking." Jake''s expression hardened abruptly, his hand clenching slightly atop the table. "I came here because of Cami Lucienne-your sister." Hearing her name sent a cold wave crashing over me. I kept my expression neutral, though my wolf let out a low growl in the back of my mind. Of course. Finally. "Go on," I ordered calmly. Jake held my gaze for a moment, emotions flickering in his eyes before he leaned forward, lowering his voice as he nced around cautiously. "Cami and I... we were involved. For months." I feigned surprise at his confession, allowing him to believe I still knew nothing about their rtionship. "I could hardly believe it when I heard about her marriage to Alpha Dominic," he said bitterly. "And even more so when I found out she was pregnant." I clenched my hands as if in distress. "So, what exactly are you trying to say?" He took a deep breath, his deep brown eyes locking onto mine. "I''m saying that the child she''s carrying... is mine." My heart pounded, and outwardly, I let a tremor of shock ripple through me. This was the confession I had been waiting for I hadn''t expected him toe to me and say it outright. ¡°That''s a bold im,¡± I said, pretending to waver. "But sorry, I can''t just take your word for it. My sister is a woman who- "I have proof," he cut in. Jake reached into his coat and pulled out a folded piece of paper. He smoothed it out on the table and slid it toward me. My breath caught as I instantly recognized it. Ab report. The same one Killian had given me. I stared at the paper, pretending to feel faint as I picked it up and read its contents. "This... How did you get this, Mr. Smith?" "I had my suspicions," he admitted, running a frustrated hand over his face. "I needed proof, and now I have it, Luna." I set the paper down, my hands trembling. Jake leaned forward, his voice turning serious. "I''m not trying to destroy your family, Luna Ruby. But I have the right to the truth. I have the right to my child." He looked at me with a gaze that was almost desperate. "And I still love her," he added quietly. That nearly shattered myposure. My nails dug into my palms as I forced myself to stay calm. A small part of me pitied him. Cami had someone who truly loved her, and she discarded him as easily as throwing trash into a gutter. "And why," I asked, my voice turning slightly cold-like a woman too exhausted to deal with yet another family crisis, "do you think I would help you? You''re telling me all this now, after I''ve lost so much, Mr. Smith. My husband. My dignity. My honor. What makes you think I owe you anything?" Jake''s jaw tightened, his eyes shing with a golden, feral glint. "Because I will help you," he said firmly. "I''ll help you get whatever you want, as long as my child is acknowledged. As long as this sham of a marriage is annulled." I stared at him, my mind racing. The air between us was thick with tension, and for a few moments, neither of us I had my own ns for revenge, but that didn''t mean I couldn''t improvise. "And what makes you think I want your help?" I pressed. Jake''s lips curved into a sharp smile. ¡°Because, like me, you have a lot to gain." ¿Ú Chapter 50 Chapter 50: A Lycan''s Jealousy Killian''s POV The majestic hall brimmed with splendor and noise-a spectacle befitting only kings and their closest confidants. Chandeliers adorned with crystals hung above, scattering light across the room in dazzling patterns. Along the walls, banquet tables overflowed with silver tters of sumptuous feasts, golden goblets filled with the finest wine, and ornate decorations that unted extravagance. This was a disy of dominance-and wealth-as it had always been in such gatherings. I navigated through the sea of nobles, monarchs, andmanders, donning my mask of practiced politeness as effortlessly as one wears a crown. Politeughter escaped my lips at the appropriate moments, my hands extended in greetings to those I could crush with a mere flick of my ws. It was a game-one I had long since mastered. The conversation followed a familiar script at first. Discussions of alliances, trade routes, border skirmishes-the mundane affairs that kept kingdoms afloat and their rulers restless at night. I allowed them to ramble, nodding at the right intervals, offering my insights when necessary. The champagne in my grasp remainedrgely untouched; I had little interest in its contents and no intention of reliving past miscalctions. The fool who once thought they could poison me. Beta Leonidas leaned in, his voice a low murmur in my ear. "It is safe, Your Majesty." Of course, it was. But that didn''t mean I had any desire to drink it. Acknowledging Beta''s diligence, I gave him a brief pat on the shoulder before dismissing him to enjoy his evening. The idle chatter nearly lulled me into boredom. Dull, uninspired-nothing remotely engaging or clever enough to hold my attention. Until the air around me shifted. The tone of conversation in my circle changed. And I sensed it instantly, the way a predator senses the presence of prey. "Have you heard about the Luna from the Ravenhold Pack?" My hand stilled, the gentle swirl of champagne forgotten. My senses sharpened the moment those word''s reached my ears -Luna and Ravenhold Pack. One of the kings posed the question, a knowing smirk stretching across his face. Another joined in, his toneced with amusement. "Ruby Lucienne, wasn''t it? The one married to that fool, Alpha Dominic?" "That''s the one!" someone else chimed in. "Hm, what about her?" "Oh, don''t pretend to be clueless. We all have the same thoughts-the same intentions-when ites to that woman." My fingers trembled slightly before I could stop them. The conversation continued, oblivious to the danger they were inviting upon themselves. Another voice cut in, "...She''s quite the woman, or so I''ve heard. Sharp-minded, too. A shame she''s tied to a crumbling pack." A third man chuckled. "I''ve heard rumors that their marriage is... less than harmonious. If that''s true, she may not remain bound to him for much longer." "Please, everyone knows it. Have you ready forgotten Dominic''s wedding-to Luna''s own sister?" "Oh, that''s right! I almost forgot about that!" Another one scoffed, puffing his chest. "Perhaps I should make my move. She and I have always had rather pleasant conversations at charity events in the capital." "What!? Since when-" My grip tightened around the delicate stem of my ss. Theirughter wed at my nerves, each sound grating like steel against stone. One of my ws had already slipped free, itching for carnage. "A woman like that," the first king mused, swirling his champagnezily, "deserves a real man. Someone who knows how to appreciate her beauty, her mind." "Like me, of course! Hahaha." Vile creatures. I wanted nothing more than to 1 Sessfully unlocked! pats open and watch their blood stain the marble floors. But I couldn''t. These men-repulsive as they were-were valuable to me. Their alliances fortified my kingdom, their wealth fed my empire. Killing them here would be a loss I couldn''t afford. So I took my leave, offering some half-hearted excuse about needing air. I felt their eyes on my back as I walked away, theirughter trailing after me like a curse I couldn''t shake. Chapter 50: A Lycan''s Jealousy Once outside, I let my mask slip. The crisp night air brushed against my face, but it did little to cool the fire raging inside me. My chest rose and fell with the weight of barely contained fury, my ws aching to shred something-anything. I wanted to hurl the champagne ss in my grip against the stone wall, to watch it shatter into a thousand useless fragments. I wanted to storm back into that wretched ballroom and burn it to the ground. The way they spoke about her-as if she were a mere prize to be imed-sent my blood into a furious boil. That woman was mine. My puppet. Forever. They had no right. None. A soft voice interrupted my thoughts. "Your Majesty." I turned to find a woman approaching, bathed in silver moonlight. Jessica Ramorez, princess of the southern Arichade Kingdom. Her beauty was undeniable-long, flowing ck hair that gleamed like silk, dark almond-shaped eyes that danced with mischief, and lips painted a deep, sultry r¨¨d, standing in sharp contrast to her wless porcin skin. She wore an emerald- green gown that dipped scandalously low, its fabric clinging to every curve like a whispered temptation. She moved with the grace of a woman who knew exactly how to wield her beauty. She stopped just a few feet away, her lips curving into a knowing smirk. "You seem... unsettled. Do you needpany?" Disgust curled in my stomach, though I kept my expression unreadable. Jessica was just like her father-sharp, maniptive, always seeking an advantage. And tonight, it seemed, she had set her sights on me. How dare she. "Thank you, Princess Jessica. But no-return to your ce." Instead of obeying, she only grew bolder, stepping closer. "You''re always so distant with me. Why?" Even without looking, I could hear the pout in her voice. "I''m quite the charmingpanion, I promise," she sighed dramatically, her warmth brushing too close forfort. It made my skin crawl. I loathed it. "My King, don''t you ever feel... lonely?" "Loneliness is a small price to pay for power," I replied coolly. She chuckled softly, the sound slithering under my skin, coiling around my nerves like a vice. I had to resist the urge to snap her neck right then and there. "Oh, but even a king cravesfort. Perhaps I could provide that for you." Her hand reached out, fingers grazing the air between us-only to be intercepted by my quick reflexes. I caught her wrist, firm but controlled, and pushed her back just enough to send a message. "You are out of line, Princess Jessica. I have no interest in sharing my bed with my friend''s daughter." Her eyes widened in shock, and for the briefest moment, she looked genuinely wounded. But the vulnerability vanished in an instant, reced by simmering indignation., "I was only trying to be kind. Why must you always twist my intentions?!" "Save your kindness for someone who wants it," I said, brushing past her. "And tell your father to keep you on a tigh leash." I didn''t bother waiting for her response. The fury still burned beneath my skin, refusing to settle, but at least my mind was clearer now. There were far more pressing matters to handle. Namely, Ruby Lucienne. And the fools who dared to believe they could im what was mine. Subscribed Chapter 51 Chapter 51 Chapter 51 Killian''s POV 98%1 $50 As I walked away from Jessica, my mood only worsened. I had to admit, her persistence wasmendable-there weren''t many women bold enough to keep trying even after being turned down repeatedly. But that didn''t make it any less exhausting. Irritating. Women like her always assumed that beauty and status could bend men like me to their will. Pathetic. From the opposite direction, Leonidas appeared, his stride noticeably more rxed than usual. But my sharp gaze immediately caught the faint red smudge on his cor and the lingering trace of Jessica''s perfume. I arched an eyebrow as he stopped before me, utterly unfazed. "Anything worthwhile from the party?" I asked. Leonidas shook his head. ¡°Nothing worth mentioning, Your Majesty. Just the usual pleasantries." My gaze flickered to the lipstick stain. I stepped closer, a dark smile ying at my lips. "Though it seems you found a way to keep yourself entertained, Leonidas. I wasn''t aware we had an official diplomatic arrangement with Jessica Marjorie." Leonidas smirked, unbothered. "I was merely being courteous to the princess. She''s quite... persistent, as you may have already noticed." "Persistent? That''s certainly one way to put it," I said dryly. "Perhaps I should send her father the bill for your wardrobe damages." "I''m sure he''d pay handsomely, given how protective he is of her," Leonidas remarked, amusementcing his tone. I scoffed. "So, before she came to me, she visited you first? How utterly charming." "Did she truly manage that? I did offer myself as a diversion to keep her from disturbing you." Augh escaped me at the feigned innocence of his words. Leonidas and his antics never failed to amuse. "You go to great lengths to please me, Leonidas," I mused, shaking my head. Leonidas chuckled softly, falling into step beside me. "I am your most loyal right hand. Ensuring yourfort is part of my duty," he said smoothly. The grand hall only grew livelier with each passing minute, yet the event had yet to reach its peak. Even so, I had already grown weary of it all. The weight of countless gazes seeking to pull me into their circles was suffocating. "Shall we take our leave, Your Majesty?" "Yes." I nodded, letting the moment slip away. Together, we made our way toward the pce exit-only for our path to be blocked by a figure that sent my blood simmering. Lucius. The King of the Northern Kingdom stood tall and imposing, his very presence exuding arrogance. He was d in a deep green robe embroidered with gold, an ostentatious disy of his kingdom''s wealth. His blond hair, as always, contrasted sharply with his ice-blue eyes, which gleamed with thinly veiled disdain. His was the face of a man who had witnessed much 09.29 Fri, 25 Apr yet learned nothing. @98%1 I often wondered how he managed to change his hair color at every gathering. Did he truly believe it would conceal his graying strands? This wretched swine never missed a chance to provoke me into taking his head. "Killian," Lucius greeted, his voice a silk-wrapped dagger. "Leaving so soon? I had hoped we might indulge in a bit of small talk." I stopped in my tracks, my crimson eyes locking onto his. "Lucius, my dear friend," I said smoothly, a ghost of a smile cur my lips. "What a delight to see you at such a grand affair. Small talk-why, that would be a first for the both of us to genuinely appreciate Leonidas, ever perceptive, picked up on my unspoken cue. Without a word, he stepped forward, subtly positioning himself between Lucius and me, ensuring the conversation would notst a moment longer than necessary. "s," I sighed, "I have urgent matters that demand my attention." "Oh, but why the rush, King Killian?" Lucius took a step closer, shing a predatory grin. "I had hoped to discuss something rather intriguing. Your rtionships, for instance. The whispers about you and Luna have been quite... entertaining." Any flicker of surprise I felt was quickly buried beneath my practiced indifference. This insufferable swine-where had he learned of my ties to Ruby? My response came effortlessly, a low chuckle slipping past my lips,ced with the unmistakable edge of warning. "Curious," I mused, my voice carrying the weight of mockery. "Are these whispers anything like the ones concerning failed diplomatic endeavors? Or perhaps... the ones regarding your wife''s wandering affections?" His smile wavered, the amusement in his gaze hardening into something colder, sharper. "Tread carefully, Killian. That tongue of yours may invite consequences beyond even your grasp." "Too easy to toy with, this fool.'' I stepped forward, towering over him, my smirk widening. "Consequences? You mean the kind your wife faced when she couldn''t keep her hands to herself?" Watching the fragile restraints of this shrimp-brained man snap was beyond satisfying. Just a little more, and- He broke. ¡°She flirted with me, Lucius. A queen, throwing herself at the king of another kingdom. How disgraceful. Ah, would you like the full story?" He lunged, fire meeting oil, his animalistic golden eyes burning with rage. But before he could reach me, Leonidas moved, stepping between us like an immovable wall. "One more step," Leonidas growled, his voice frigid, ws beginning to unsheathe, "and I''ll tear your throat out." Lucius sneered, shifting his gaze to my Beta. "Oh? And look who''s decided to bark." His eyes trailed over Leonidas with slow, deliberate contempt, as if he were nothing more than dirt beneath his boot. 09:29 Fri, 25 Apr C "A pathetic little mutt, groveling at his master''s feet. How pitiful," he spat. Leonidas chuckled darkly. "Better a loyal dog than a snake feasting on its own tail, King Lucius." I ced a steady hand on Leonidas''s shoulder, a silentmand. 98% (+50) "That''s enough," I said smoothly. "Lucius, your tantrum is entertaining, truly, but I have far more pressing matters to attend to. Try not to embarrass yourself so openly next time." With that, I turned on my heel and strode away, Leonidas falling into step beside me. Lucius''s curses rang through the hall, thick with rage-but I didn''t so much as nce back. Entertaining an old, fat pig any further would be a waste of time. On the way back to the pce, Leonidas was strangely quiet. Not in his usual manner-I knew this silence well. "Spit it out. What''s on your mind?" Imanded. He sighed, raking a hand through his hair. "I''ve received some new information." "Oh? And what exactly is it about?" A pause. Irritating. Then, atst, he spoke. "I''ve received some... concerning news, Your Majesty." He watched me carefully as if measuring my reaction to every "One of our informants spotted Luna Ruby at a small restaurant. She wasn''t alone." My steps slowed, my focus sharpening like a de. "She... what?" word. Leonidas hesitated, as though steadying himself. "A man. From what I''ve gathered, he''s affiliated with the Rivermoon group." I haltedpletely, turning to face him. My eyes burned, my patience razor-thin. "What exactly did you see?" "They were speaking," Leonidas replied swiftly. "It looked... intimate, but I can''t confirm anything yet." Intimate. A growl rumbled in my chest. The thought of another man near Ruby-talking to her, looking at her-was enough to make my wolf w at the surface. But I knew Ruby. She wasn''t reckless. She wouldn''t dare entertain another man- not after our arrangement, not when she understood the consequences. Whatever this was, I didn''t like it. "Find out everything," I ordered, my voice carrying the weight of an unspoken threat. "Who he is, what they discussed, and why he thinks he has the right to exist in her presence." Leonidas inclined his head without hesitation. "It will be done, Your Majesty." Chapter 52 Ruby''s POV Today had been... exhrating. First, my so-called parents were suffering a psychological meltdown. They believed they were being targeted by some unseen force of hatred, and the best part? They had no clue who was behind it. If only they were more observant. They would have seen it-seen me. 97% +50) Their condition had slightly improved, but the scars marring their bodies remained, grotesque and permanent. Nathaniel had been particrly unhinged, his temper so explosive that the healers had resorted to dosing him with calming potions just to keep him in check. Taking my revenge slowly had been the right choice. Watching them unravel, bit by bit, was the most satisfying performance I''d ever witnessed. And this was still nothingpared to the suffering they had inflicted upon me. They should be grateful. I had given them time-a chance to repent. But, of course, they never would. Second, a little surprise for my dearest fake sister. The gift was exquisite-wrapped in delicate pink paper, Cami''s favorite color. Inside? A porcin doll, its face and body streaked with deep red ink, its stomach impaled with a knife. Alongside it, a bundle of curses scrawled on a crumpled piece of parchment. Every ounce of my hatred for her, packed neatly into a single box. Before handing it to the messenger, I ensured my instructions were clear: deliver it to her room when Dominic wasn''t there. A few hourster, chaos erupted. Cami''s shrill scream tore through the manor, shaking the ss windows and rousing half the household from their sleep. I yed my role to perfection-rushing to her room, concern etched into every line of my face. Shey sprawled on the floor, trembling violently, both hands clutching her now more pronounced belly. Dominic hovered over her protectively, his arms wrapped around her as he whispered reassurances. On the floor beside them, the gift boxy discarded. The doll''s lifeless eyes stared vacantly at the ceiling, its crimson- streaked body grotesquely mimicking spilled blood. Dominic''s jaw clenched, his voice sharp as a de as he thundered across the room, his fury palpable. "Find out who did this! I want them brought before me in chains!" I made sure to shiver, allowing just the right amount of fear to seep into my expression as I turned to the servants. "Th-this... this is horrible," I whispered, my hand covering my mouth. "Who would do such a thing? Why would anyone target our family like this?" Then, I let my gaze drift toward the foolish Alpha. "Dominic, we have to investigate this thoroughly. The pack is no longer safe. People are already afraid after everything that''s 09.25 §¤§±, 20 §¡§â§Ô happened," I urged, my voice trembling with carefully measured fear. 34/% For once, Dominic didn''t snap at me. Instead, he nodded solemnly, though his gaze remained fixed on Cami, who whimpered against his chest like a helpless pup. "You''re right. I''ll handle it." That... was surprising. Had he hit his head? Eaten something spoiled? I gave a slightly stiff nod. "Then I''ll leave Cami to you. I need to check on my parents." For a brief moment, our eyes met-long enough for Cami''s pitiful cries to break the silence. "Alright. Go ahead, Luna," he said. +50 As I walked away, my brows furrowed. I couldn''t make sense of his sudden shift in attitude. The more I thought about it, the more uneasy I felt. Maybe he was adjusting his approach, softening his stance in preparation for a new scheme. Treating me with outright hostility would only make their ns harder to execute. I wondered when Nathaniel would finally give the order for him to kill me. Because so far, there hadn''t been the slightest indication. With a sigh, I massaged my temples, pushing thoughts of Dominic aside. Right now, I had a more pressing matter-dealing with my so-called parents. The visit was brief. I had the perfect excuse-there were pack affairs to handle, and my duties as Luna came first. Day faded into night. Given Dominic''s unusual behavior, I had half-expected him to show up at my door. But he didn''t. Good. I wasn''t in the mood for another confrontation. The silence in my room was suffocating, broken only by the soft whisper of the wind outside. Dressed in a deep blue nightgown, I sat by the window, watching the garden bathed in moonlight. My mind drifted. Killian. It had been days since Ist saw him. Not that I was waiting. Of course not. This was about our deal. I needed him to witness how well my ns were progressing. And yet... deep down, I despised how his absence felt like a persistent itch beneath my skin, impossible to ignore. I leaned my head against the cool ss, absentmindedly running my fingers over the fabric of my gown. A tyrant was likely plotting something wicked. Perhaps that was why he hadn''te. Or maybe... he was simply too busy with the countless women surrounding him. Rumors often whispered that he had many lovers. I flinched, my hand instinctively pressing against my chest. Why did that thought make me feel-off? No. It was nothing. There was absolutely nothing between us. Nothing even remotely close to romance. Yet, in the back of my mind, my wolf scoffed at my denial. Annoying. I was lost in thought when a sudden light filled the room. My body tensed, heart hammering as the golden glow swirled, twisting into a vortex. VILI §Ôn, 25 Apr Finally. He was here. Killian. But something was different tonight. As he stepped forward, his crimson eyes locked onto mine, sharper than ever. Colder. I had never seen that look directed at me before. It was the kind of gaze that could kill. "You''rete..." I murmured. Killian tilted his head, his smirk ghostlycking its usual amusement. "Oh? So you did miss me?" I wanted to shoot back a retort, but something in his tone made my skin prickle. I swallowed hard, arms crooding, over my chest. "You were gone for days. Why?" His eyes darkened. He took a step closer. Instinctively, I stepped back. And suddenly, my back hit the wall. "Tell me about the man you met at the tavern? A cold sensation crawled down my spine. "M-man?" Killian''s jaw tightened, his entire presence suffocating. For the first time, I swore I saw something flicker behind his rage-something dangerously close to pain. "Don''t y dumb," he growled, his voice razor-sharp. "I know you met him. Who is he?" And then-realization struck. My blood ran ice-cold. "Jake," I whispered, my lips barely moving. "Jake Smith. He... he''s Cami''s lover." Killian froze. His expression shifted-fury melting into something unreadable. "Cami''s lover?" "Y-yes, Your Majesty," I stammered, lowering my head, barely able to withstand the storm brewing in his gaze. "The man you saw... he''s the father of her child." Killian muttered a curse under his breath, his fingers raking through his hair. I stared, frozen, as something unexpected flickered across his face-guilt. Regret. "Your Majesty?" Then, he spoke, and his words sent my heart into a frantic rhythm. "I might be jealous." 09.29 Fri, 25 Apr "J-jealous? Of me? Just an ordinary woman?" His crimson eyes bore into mine, the sheer intensity of his gaze knocking the breath from my longs. "Yes" Ìï Chapter 53 Killian''s POV What Have I Done? 29780 Those words still lingered in my mind like a cursed song I couldn''t silence. "Yes, I''m jealous. I hadn''t meant to say it-hell, I hadn''t even meant to feel it. But the words had slipped past my lips, unstoppable and unrestrained, and for the first time in centuries, I felt emotions wing at me, wild and untamed. A chaos beyond my control. My wolf was thoroughly enjoying my suffering. "Atst,¡± he scoffed in the back of my mind, his voice deep and reverberating. "The mighty Lycan King, brought to his knees by a woman. Should I prepare a throne for her beside yours?" "Shut up," I growled inwardly, though my voicecked the sharpness I intended. My wolf let out a low, mockingugh, shattering my fragileposure. "You can''t even deny it, Killian. You''re jealous. And worse-you admitted it. That woman has you tangled in her ws, and we both know it." I ignored him, pacing the length of my chamber. The air around me felt thick, suffocating, as if ridiculing me for this moment of weakness. I couldn''t let this distraction consume me. I was Killian Rudwick, the Lycan King. A ruler feared by nations, revered by wolves across the realm. I did not bend. I did not waver. And I certainly did not sumb to trivial emotions like jealousy. Yet here I was-undone by a woman. By her. Ruby Lucienne. "Why do you despise this emotion so much?" my wolf mused, amusementcing his tone. "Jealousy is as natural as envying another''s power. There is no difference." I clenched my jaw. "It is different." "You''re strange, Killian. I don''t understand why we share the same soul when we see things so differently." "As if I had a choice." My wolf chuckled through our bond. But what truly caught me off guard was his next statement. "By the way, I want a new name. Find one for me. Quickly." "Wait, what? A new name? Why the hell do you suddenly want to change your name, you bastard!?" "A new day, a new beginning. Think fast. I''ll give you exactly twenty-four hours." And just like that, he cut the connection, leaving me no room to argue. For hell''s sake, I had no idea what was going through his damn head. If only he had a physical form-I would''ve torn him apart by now. What the hell was the point of a new name!? 09:30 Fri, 25 Apr I could feel my headache worsening with every passing second. I didn''t want to indulge his demands, but I knew better than to resist them. He was a part of my soul, and I knew him inside and out-every single one of his infuriating traits. I huffed. Fine. I''de up with a name for that damn wolf of mine. But for now, back to the real problem. How do I erase this stupid jealousy? Should I drown myself in countless women until she fades from my thoughts? But none of them ever tasted as rich, as intoxicating, as Ruby. 397% 11 50 Damn that woman. Damn her soft voice, her razor-sharp mind, her untamed spirit. And fuck the way she looked underneath me-breathtaking in ways I couldn''t ignore. And those eyes.... that stripped away the armor I had spent centuries forging. Her touch, her smile-every small, insignificant thing about her-somehow managed to awaken something deep inside me, something uncontroble. I could feel my wolf snickering from the darkest corners of my mind, his endless mockery grating on my nerves. But all of that faded when my thoughts were pulled back to the memory still fresh in my mind-her lips against mine, the way she melted into me when we parted. That kiss had been fire-raw, consuming, far too real. And then, I had disappeared into the night, leaving her standing there in her chamber-cheeks flushed, lips swollen from my kiss. The following day, as I sat upon my throne, I tried to push those thoughts aside. It was utterly useless-until a new problem was brought before me. The grand hall was cold and eerily silent, save for the distant echo of footsteps. When the heavy doors creaked open, two of my guards dragged a man forward. His face was battered, his clothes tattered, and the stench of fear clung to him like a second skin. Beta Leonidas followed close behind, his face as impassive as ever. The faint scent of blood still lingered on him, a clear sign that he had personally overseen the capture. I leaned forward, resting an elbow on the armrest of my throne, my gaze fixed on the pitiful creature before me. "Who is this?" I demanded, my lips curling in distaste. "Another ve? Again? I have no use for more filth in this kingdom, Leonidas. We already have plenty." Leonidas stepped forward, his voice steady but tinged with irritation. "Forgive me, Your Majesty, but this is no mere ve, as you presume.¡± I arched a brow. "Oh?" Leonidas cast a sharp, disdainful nce at the trembling man. "A merchant, or so he ims. He has been supplying goods to the pce for the past two months." A low growl rumbled from my Beta''s throat. "My men caught him skulking around the eastern wing-where the council''s records are kept." My eyes narrowed. "And why wasn''t he caught sooner?" Leonidas shrugged, unbothered by the implicit reprimand. "He was cautious-but not cautious enough. We tracked him 11, 23 API back to his quarters and found this." He signaled to one of the guards, who unceremoniously dropped a leather bag onto the floor. Its contents spillest on pce schematics, hastily scrawled notes, and an emblem I knew all too well. The emblem of the Ravenhold Pack. My blood burned with fury. Something deep within me screamed for brutal retribution "Dominic," I spat, the name leaving my lips like a poisonous curse. Leonidas inclined his head. "It seems Alpha Dominic isn''t content with losing his precious heirloom. He''s remet is espionage, likely hoping to uncover something he can use against you." "This isn''t the first time," I sneered. Rising from my throne, I moved toward the trembling man with slow, measured steps. He whimpered as I crunched before him, my crimson eyes locking onto his. "Do you serve Dominic?" The man stuttered, his words tumbling over themselves in incoherent panic. "Answer me!" I roared, my ws unsheathing as I seized his cor and hauled him off the ground. "Yes!" he squealed. "He forced me! I had no choice-please, I was only following orders!" "Following orders?" I echoed, my voice dripping with mockery. "Do you have any idea what happens to traitors? His strangled sobs told me everything I needed to know. Disgusted, I tossed him to the ground like a discarded tag my patience wearing thin. "Throw him in the dungeon," Imanded the guards. "I will decide his fateter." As he was dragged away, his pitiful pleas reverberating through the grand hall, I turned to Leonidas. "Dominic is pushing his luck. Twice now." My voice was a storm of barely contained rage. ''I want him to understand winar happens to those who dare to stand against me." A ghost of a smirk flickered across Leonidas''s face. "Shall I send him a message, Your Majesty?" "Not yet," I murmured, a cruel smile ying at my lips. "Let him stew in uncertainty for now. But keep a close watch on huma -I want to know his every move." The Beta bowed in quiet obedience. "Is there anything else, Your Majesty?" I waved him off, retreating into the shadows of my throne. "No. Leave me." If not for my pact with Ruby, that man and his entire pack would have been rotting in the ground long ago. Chapter 54 Ruby''s POV Killian''s words fromst night lingered in my mind like a ghostly melody. What did he mean by that? I sat by my workspace window, the pale morning light spilling softly over the polished wooden floor. My fingers absentmindedly traced patterns on the ss as my thoughts churned realessly. Killian Redwick, the formidable Lycan King had confessed to feeling jealous. Of me. Was it real? My hand drifted to my chest, feeling the fierce rhythm of my heartbeat beneath my skin. What could possibly make a cream like him-a king feared for his cruelty and insatiable thirst for power-experience something as human as powe The thought was ridiculous. And yet, the way he said it-the sharp glint in his crimson eyes-left no room for doubt. Did that mean I had some hold over him? The idea should have thrilled me, but instead, it rattled me. Having power someone like Killian Rudwick was no gift. It was a burden. And I wasn''t sure I was strong enough to carry it. I sighed, resting my forehead against the cold ss. My emotions had betrayed me again. This wasn''t about Killian, not entirely. I had too much at stake to let my feelings blur my judgment. Revenge was still the driving force of my existence, and every step I took needed to bring me closer to that goal. So why did I feel this relentless pull toward him? Stop it, Ruby, I scolded myself. You cannot afford to fall into this forbidden temptation. We are nothing more than allies bound by mutual gain. Nothing more. Yet deep down, I knew I was lying. I was lying when I told myself I didn''t savor his touch, his attention, his praise¡ªor the way he made me feel like I was something more than just a pawn in this life. Frustrated, I ran my fingers through my hair, pressing my head against the window. I was in serious trouble. "You like him." Three words. My wolf''s voice echoed in my head like a melody on an old record yer-a quiet but insistent reminder. That ache returned. And I was terrified it might be true. In the midst of the storm raging within me, a knock on the door pulled me back to reality. I straightened my posture, carefully molding my expression into a mask of calm before responding. "Come in." Amara, my newly appointed personal maid, stepped inside. There was a flicker of hesitation in her youthful face, though she 09:30 Fri, 25 Apr carried herself with theposed demeanor I hade to expect. Despite working under me for months, she still hadart entirely shed her fear of me. "Luna Ruby," she said, bowing respectfully, "this just arrived for you." I frowned, rising from my seat as she extended an envelope, sealed with in wax. There was no indication of its sender "Thank you, Amara," I said, epting the letter. She nodded and turned to leave, but I stopped her. "Wait, Amara." She immediately turned back, lowering her gaze the moment I addressed her. "Yes, my Luna?" I sighed, stepping closer and resting a hand gently on her shoulder. "I hope that in time, you''ll learn to feel less afraid or nervous around me. I''d rather we see each other as partners, not just as superior and subordinate," I said in a emphatically voice. Her reaction was immediate-her eyes widened, her lips parted and closed again as if she were struggling for words. I let out a quiet chuckle. "I''m not particrly fond of excessive formality, Amara. Just rx a little, alright?" "Y-yes, Luna." I smiled. "Good. Now, you may return to your duties." With a faint flush on her cheeks and a bit more ease in her movements, Amara excused herself. As the door clicked shut behind her, I turned the nameless envelope in my hands, examining it briefly before breaking the seal. The parchment inside was slightly crumpled, as if handled nervously before being sent. The letter: Luna Ruby, I hope this message finds you well. I write to you with the utmost urgency, as I find myself in an increasingly precarious position. I have been working to gather all the evidence necessary to prove my rtionship with Cami. I know you are already aware of much of this, but I have secured documentation that will leave no doubt about the truth. If you are willing, please let me know how you wish to receive these materials. However, there is a matter that troubles me greatly. For the past few days, I have been followed. I cannot say for certain who is behind it, but I suspect it might be Cami''s doing. She knows I am a threat to her lies, and I fear she would go to great lengths to silence me. I''m not writing this to burden you with my troubles, but if anything happens to me, I want you to have this evidence. It will be my only way of ensuring the truthes to light. I have given up on Cami. My only concern now is the child she carries. Whatever happens, I want to protect my son or daughter. They deserve better than the lies and deceit surrounding them. Please, Luna Ruby, let me know how we should proceed. And if you hear of anything suspicious.. I beg of you, don''t let this go unanswered. 019 09:30 Fri, 25 Apr. Yours sincerely, Jake Smith I folded the letter with trembeling hands, my chest tightening under the weight of anger and grief Jake''s words echoes in my mind-his desperation, his fear. Cami. Of course, it was her. That woman''s cruelty knew no limits. She had deceived and ruined so many lives, and now she was trying to silence the one person willing to stand against her. A bitter taste filled my mouth. I couldn''t let this go on. Jake''s life was in danger because of Cami''s lies, and I would not allow him to be another casualty of her twisted games. My fingers curled around the letter as 1 slipped it into a drawer and locked it away. My thoughts raced, spinning through ns and contingencies. It was time to act. Cami had forced my hand, and I would make damn sure she regretted it. But Jake..... I couldn''t just ignore his plea. I had long since drowned in the abyss of my own sins, choosing the path of a viin to ensure those traitors paid for their wickedness. Yet that didn''t mean I would stand by and let someone like Jake-someone good- suffer because of them. I had to see him, to make sure he was safe, and to secure the evidence he had promised. If he was right¡ªif something happened to him-then I would be the one to deliver the truth. I clenched the letter tightly. "Hell ising for you, Cami. Be ready." Chapter 55 Ruby''s POV *97%8 The small crate felt heavier than it should as I carried it to my room. Every time I took a step, my panic increased and my wolf paced anxiously inside me. Jake Smith looked worse than thest time we''d met, his exhaustion clearly drawn on his gaunt face. The puffy bags under his eyes were darker than the ink on the evidence he''d handed me. It wasn''t guilt that bothered me. I couldn''t be med for the torture Cami relentlessly inflicted on the man but I couldn''t ignore her despair. A dashing Beta being destroyed so easily because of a woman. It was unbelievable. Amara had done a good job, making sure the room was well guarded. I spread the contents of the crate out on my desk, my fingers trembling slightly as I sorted through the letters, receipts, photos, and other incriminating evidence of their rtionship. Each piece of evidence was a nail in Cami''s coffin, and I locked them all in a double-security safe behind the wardrobe. I smiled faintly. How would Dominic react when he saw all this evidence? I''m not sure Cami will escape death so easily for deceiving him. But then, aren''t they a match made in heaven for being a fellow deceiver and traitor? The sun had just risen, but my head was already throbbing from the pressure of my n. My mind raced as I considered how best to use this against her. There were so many options to destroy her life piece by piece. However, I had to be smart in my choice. Because I want her to be destroyed until thest thing she wants is to die. Cami wouldn''t have any idea what hit her. On that day, I had just returned from a visit to an orphanage, seeking sce in theughter of the children. They are the best medicine for me right now. Especially reminiscing about myte daughter. "I''m d you''re feeling a little better, Ruby." I sighedfortably feeling the wave of contentment my wolf sent through our bond. "Yeah, but if I get overly happy like this, there''s definitely trouble on the horizon." My wolf grunted, "When has this pack ever been calm? Never." And my wolf''s words were proven in less than five minutes. The warmth I had just felt from the children''s excitement faded the moment I stepped inside the orphanage. The sounds of my fake parents'' anger and hatred rang out in the corridor. I stopped, my wolf prickling with warning. I pressed my body against the wall, carefully tilting my head to listen. "We have to get rid of her..." "If we don''t move soon, it will be toote!" And then, Nathaniel responded with a growl and a loud bang. "My patience is running out!" "Ruby has be a bigger threat than we anticipated," my stepmother added with a reflection of the same emotion as her husband. ¡°And this itching-" 09:30 Fri, 25 Apr He trailed off, groaning in despair. ¡°I can''t focus on anything with my skin burning like this. Nathaniel, fix it!" 97% (480) I imagined him scratching furiously at the wound, his nails digging into his pus- ridden skin. That image alone gave me an immense sense of satisfaction, but I listened anyway because this was the second encouragement today that pleased my heart. "I don''t care about your damned itch!" Nathaniel snapped. "The Lycan King is targeting her. If he gets too involved, we''ll lose our chance. We must act now!" "Do you think that tyrant is really interested in Ruby?" Dominic''s voice began to sound, slightly exasperated. "Why would someone like him care about her?" My blood boiled at his arrogance. "He''s a man, Dominic!" Nathaneil hissed, apanied by the echo of punches from inside. ¡°And Ruby... you''re not blind to who her parents are, are you? She''s irresistible to any man!" "...If she gets that damn king''s protection, we''ll never be able to touch her again. Do you want that?" There was a faint sigh from inside. "That''s right. As a woman, I wasn''t blind to the displeasedly. way yra that looked at Ruby from the start," my stepmother piped up "We should have dealt with that bitch sooner," Cami finally chimed in, venom dripping from every word. "I told you, she''s dangerous! She''s maniptive, always pretending to be a dutiful sister. If we don''t act, she''ll ruin everything!" Hearing their vile words lit a fire in my chest. My fists clenched at my sides, my nails dug into my palms. "Why do you think that about her? I think she''s still just a stupid, easy girl," Dominic argued. "My dear Dominic, I have a skill in assessing people. She''s not what she used to be! I''m sure of it!" Dominic sounded more exasperated than ever. "I don''t think so. She''s just acting like she''s strong. Ruby won''t be able to fight us. She''s too sanctimonious." Those damn sinners! They wanted to kill me immediately than before. My vision blurred with anger as I stepped back, my breath catching. My mind spun out of control, wolves wing to be released. And now, they''ve realized my special closeness to Killian. Granted, those fake parents of mine and Dominic still clung to their ideology that I was just another innocent Ruby. Except, Cami. That''s a little dangerous. ''I must admit Cami. You''re pretty smart'' The moment I was able to move back from my spot, a bright swirl of light appeared before me. I froze, startled by the sudden appearance. The light swirled with blinding intensity, and before I could react, it pulled me in. ### When the light subsided, I found myself standing in a vast hall that I did not recognize. The gilded arches, the magnificent tapestries, and the massive throne that dominated the room-that was Killian''s throne room. And there he was, sitting with all the pomposity of a king without equal. His crimson eyes stared at me, and his lips curled into his characteristic smirk. "Leave us," he ordered. His guards and advisors rushed out, leaving just the two of us. 09:30 Fri, 25 Apr 97%0 Killian rose from his throne. He descended the steps with predatory grace, his gaze never leaving my eyes. I stood rooted to the spot, my earlier anger still simmering beneath the surface. "Ruby," the king said, his tone softer than before as he approached me. His hand touched my arm, encouraging me. "You look like you just went through hell." I pulled my arm away, looking up at him. "That''s because I am. My family is nning to kill me. Maybe tomorrow, maybe now, whatever. My voice trembled, not with fear but with anger. "They''ve decided my time is up." For a split second Killian''s expression darkened. "Really? Or is it just their usual nonsense?" "They are in deadly earnest this time, Your Majesty. I... Uh- w-what the..." I didn''t realize that I had moved until I found myself sitting-not on a chair, but on hisp! My heart skipped a beat as his strong arms embraced me, his touch both possessive andforting. "Y-your Highness. What are you doing? Why am I-" "Helping you rx," he purred right in my ear, making me shiver. "You carry too much burden, Ruby." I wanted to protest, but his warmth seeped into me, calming the raging anger in my chest. For a moment, I let myself lean against him, my head resting on his broad shoulders. "I called you here for a reason," he said after a moment, his tone turning colder. "We have amon interest in dealing with your traitor. But there is one thing I need to discuss with you." My brows furrowed as I straightened up, meeting his bloodshot eyes. "Who?" He leaned closer, his lips almost pressed against mine as he spoke. "Dominic." Ìï Chapter 56 Killian''s POV 1976u I have summoned Ruby here to discuss Dominic''s crimes, toy out my n, and to continue his inevitable downfall. However, the moment I looked at her, the topic of conversation became secondary. She was furious. Not at me, but at the betrayal she had endured. At the burden she called her family''s betrayal. The barely visible sorrow in her blue eyes only fueled the fire of my own rage. I wanted blood. Now. But Ruby, ever the stubborn one, was more concerned with understanding others'' feelings. The most frustrating part? She acted as if she had to bear it all herself. Sometimes, I wonder-how deep does Ruby''s purity run, even after all the pain she has suffered? It turns out that revenge alone isn''t enough to turn someone into a demon. I don''t know whether to feel relieved or disappointed that I''ve lost my own wager. "Tell me what Dominic has done," she demanded, rubbing the tense vein at her temple. "Whatever crimes he hasmitted, I will hear them, Your Majesty." I studied her for a moment, my jaw tightening. Even now, she insisted on shouldering burdens that were never meant for her. The irony of it all. "My dear, you sound as if you''re about to take Dominic''s punishment in his ce." Ruby''s lips pressed into a thin line. "That man has never known the meaning of an apology. And no matter what, he is a member of the pack, an alpha, and I¡ª¡± "You don''t have to bear the sins of others, Ruby." My reprimand silenced her instantly. She exhaled, brushing a hand over her furrowed brow. "We''ll discuss this self-sacrificing habit of yourster," I told her firmly. She only nodded obediently, not daring to argue. Leaning forward, my fingers traced invisible patterns along the armrest of my throne. "Your beloved Alpha," I shifted to the real topic, letting the title curl with mockery, "has been using members of the Ravenhold Pack to spy on me. And not just any spies-men posing as merchants, slipping in and out of my kingdom for months. His pathetic attempt at subtlety only made them easier to catch." Ruby tensed, horror shing across her face." ¡°Killian..... I mean, my King," she quavered, lowering her head. "As Luna, I apologize. It is uneptable that someone from my pack would be involved in something so vile." "I don''t need your apology, little wolf. What I need is Dominic''s head," I sneered. She looked as though she might explode but instead bit her lip, her nails digging into her palms as she held back a mixture of shame and fury. "And you will have it. I swear," she dered firmly. I tilted my head, intrigued by the certainty in her voice. She agreed so easily. And why wouldn''t she? That man had done nothing but destroy her life. And yet, this woman was the type to apologize even when something wasn''t her fault. ! 09:30 Fri, 25 Apr # I didn''t like it. My hand reached out, fingers curling under her chin, lifting her gaze to meet mine. 29/700 +50 "And what about your own n?" I asked, losing myself in the stunning blue depths of her eyes. "I see nothing wrong with your brand of revenge. But if they''re nning to kill you soon, there''s no point in ying the long game. It''s time to speed things up." Ruby wavered at my reasoning, but she epted it easily enough. Especially after hearing her report-those four cowardly pigs had dared to set a date for their Luna''s death. Oh, she could no longer afford patience. "I agree, I think I''m tired of dealing with this too." Satisfaction curled in my chest. "Good girl." I leaned back, my hold on her slipping lower to her waist as I pulled her closer until she was pressed against my chest. She gasped in surprise, but I took advantage of it easily, sliding my hands to her hips and stealing a kiss. "When Dominic and the others are gone, what will you do?" I asked, watching her reaction closely. "Return to your pack and pretend none of this happened?" Her brows furrowed in confusion. "I... I don''t know, Your Majesty. At the very least, I will focus on restoring my pack." I clicked my tongue in displeasure. "That''s not the right answer, Ruby." She tilted her head, blinking at me in adorable bewilderment. "Then what is?" I smirked. "Stay with me." Ruby''s eyes widened, utterly speechless. She froze in ce, as if she had just attempted to process half the books in a library at once. I couldn''t stop myself fromughing at her expression. She never failed to react so vividly. "Why waste yourself on a pack that abandoned you?" My fingers threaded through strands of her golden hair, savoring its softness against my skin. "Stay in my kingdom. It would be fun, wouldn''t it?" Ruby flushed, her lips parting as if to said ''yes'', but doubt flickered across her face. "Your Majesty, I-I can''t. My pack¡ª" "They don''t deserve you," I cut in smoothly. "You said you wanted to rebuild it, but do they deserve that gift?" Her shoulders jolt as she gasper hear a painful honesty. She turned her face away for a moment, a trace of sadness visible to me. I pressed further. "You speak of loyalty, of duty," I continued, my voice as gentle as possible, my fingers tracing a slow path along her bare shoulder. "But when was thest time you thought of yourself?" She frowned deeply. "That''s not-" "That''s denial," I interrupted. "And that''s the problem, little wolf. You give and give until there''s nothing left for yourself. And I won''t allow it." Her breath trembled against my lips as I leaned in. 09:30 Fri, 25 Apr "You should love yourself the way you fight for them." She swallowed hard. ¡°I''ve always done that, Your Majesty. I love "Lies," I whispered, pressing my lips against her throat. "Let me make it simple for you." My grip tightened around her waist. 39/764 11 50 "You need a new Alpha. Someone strong enough to take control. I can help you install one. And you, my dear, will remain the true power behind the throne." She trembled in my arms, her mind working through my words. I could feel her resolve waver, her body instinctively leaning into mine. So utterly satisfying-to see this little cherry melt so easily in my presence. "It''s a brilliant n, isn''t it?" I grinned darkly. ¡°I appreciate it. But I''m not sure, Your Majesty. Especially about myself" Her hands clutched at my shoulders. "Hmm," I mused, tilting her chin up. "And yet, look at your body. It''s already agreeing with me." Ruby red at me. "Your Majesty-" I silenced her with a kiss. A deep, demanding kiss that stole the breath from her lungs, leaving no room for this little cherry to muster the courage to argue with her king. At first, she tensed, her hands pressing against my chest-but then, just like ice cream melting under the sun, her fingers curled into the fabric of my clothes. I devoured her, drinking in the warmth of her surrender. My tongue swept against hers-coaxing, demanding. When I finally pulled away, my gaze roamed over my little cherry with obsessive hunger-her cheeks flushed, her lips swollen, her expression dazed with desire. Amused, I traced my thumb over her lower lip. "Are you mad?" I asked yfully. She pouted. "You''re insufferable." I chuckled, savoring the heat of her body, the steady pulse of her life beneath my touch. "And yet, here you are, my dear. Chained to me for life. Care to argue?" She gasped when I smacked her ass, the red on her cheeks spreading down her neck and chest. "Killian!" Myughter filled the throne room, stoking her irritation. She shoved at my chest in frustration, but I only pulled her closer onto myp, reveling in the fire in her eyes. She was breathtaking when she fought me. And I would never tire of it. 914 Chapter 57 Killian''s POV ''So, do you agree?" She nodded firmly. "Your n is far more brilliant than mine, Your Majesty." "In that case, you can just sit back and enjoy the show after this." "As you wish, Your Majesty." Ruby had ced her trust in me to execute the final part of our revenge. That alone was enough to amuse me because she knew I would enjoy making it far moreplicated than she had nned. Ruby''s strategy was methodical, designed to make them suffer, but itcked the finesse of true punishment. No slow, drawn-out agony. No orchestrated downfall for everyone involved. Just a gradual decay. It''s less fun. So I reworked it, adding my own signature-cruelty and patience-and she agreed without much question. A clever woman. And yet, no matter how perfectly everything had fallen into ce, I found myself dying her departure. She needed to return soon, or suspicion would arise, but something within me-a possessive beast growling deep inside-wanted to keep her here a little longer. "Ask her for a name." I nearly growled out loud. "Are you insane?" "Give me a name, you idiotic Tyrant." The wolf''s voice rumbled in my mind, half- angry. "I''d much prefer if she were the one to do it." I resisted the urge to roll my eyes. "I already named you!" "A title. Not a name. It''s not the same! And besides, it''s ugly!" my wolf sneered. My eyebrow twitched in irritation. "This is utterly ridiculous! You just want to humiliate me!?" "Do I look like I care? Oh, not at all!" "Now, ask her!" I gritted my teeth. One day, I would find a way to rip that damn wolf out of my inner world and roast him over a bonfire. Exhaling harshly, I caught Ruby''s curious gaze. "Forgive me, Your Majesty. Is something wrong?" I cleared my throat. "No. But I suggest you stop calling me that so formally. I''m starting to find it annoying." A flush of red spread from her cheeks to her ears. She shook her head, seemingly about to protest, only to mp her lips shut when two of my fingers flicked her forehead lightly. "Don''t pretend to refuse. You''ve slipped up and called me by name more than once." Ruby stammered in panic. "I-I... but-¡± # 09:30 Fri, 25 Apr 04. 397% "Even without the surname, I emphasized. For a moment, she looked down, embarrassed, before ncing up at me through her longshes in a way that was... intriguing. "Killian, then," I let out a quiet scoff, the corner of my mouth twitching in amusement. "As you should." My wolf barked in outrage as I nearly forgot his request. I quickly grasped Ruby''s wrist before she could step any closer to the portal. The look on her face told me she already knew something was off. "Killian?" My pride protested fiercely against what I was about to say, but that damn wolf was relentless. "Give me a name," I muttered, my jaw tightening. Ruby blinked rapidly. "What?" "My wolf" I exhaled slowly, trying not to feel like an idiot. "He wants you to name him." Silence. Then, an unexpected sound-a soft, breathlessugh. Ruby pressed a hand to her lips, shaking her head. "Are you serious?" I frowned. "Apparently, he likes you enough to ask for your approval." Her amusement only grew, and though I was irritated, I found myself staring at her lips, watching how they curved as sheughed. Damn woman. "Alright," she mused, tapping her chin. "If he insists so much, I suppose he should have a name fitting for a beast like you." I crossed my arms. "Choose wisely." She tilted her head, thinking. The way her expression softened, the glint in her eyes as she pondered, made something tighten in my chest. And then, she smiled. Stunningly. "Elysian." The wolf inside me stirred, suddenly ecstatic, as if fireworks were exploding above his head. "I love it!" "Shut your mouth, you insane wolf!" Ruby looked at me with hopeful eyes. "Do you like it?" No. But my damn wolf was purring in satisfaction. I let out a sigh. "Unfortunately, yes." Her grin widened. "Tell him, your wolf. Elysian. That name means beautiful." Of course. Just as I expected. Elysian only grew more deliriously pleased. I rubbed my temple, trying to ward off the headache he was giving me. 09:30 Fri, 25 Apr Shaking my head, I ced my hands on her waist and pulled her close. "You''re troublesome," I murmured, brushing my lips against her temple. Her breath hitched, a teasing glint slipping into the blue depths of her eyes. "Hm..... isn''t it the other way around?" Damn it. "Minx." I kissed her before she could say anything else, my lips iming hers in a possessive, lingering embrace. When we finally pulled apart, I pressed my forehead against hers. "Go. Before I change my mind and keep you here." With onest nce, she stepped through the portal, vanishing from my sight. And suddenly, my kingdom felt empty. Everything seemed darker. Colder. The satisfaction from our earlier conversation faded the moment she left. But at least I had another distraction-like dealing with Dominic''s pathetic excuse for spies lurking in mynds. I had just begun making my way to the dungeons when one of my guards came sprinting toward me, his face pale. "Your Majesty-" Before he could finish, an enraged scream echoed through the halls. "WHERE IS SHE?" Oh, for fuck''s sake. Again? Daphne Marjorie stormed into the corridor, her elegant gown billowing behind her, her eyes wild with fury. "Killian Rudwick!" I pinched the bridge of my nose. I had already spoken to Daphne''s parents about her problematic behavior and her horrifying obsession with me. The oue had been satisfactory enough. Her parents chose to heed my warning rather than risk losing their d theirvish lifestyle. "I already forbade you froming here. Are you disobeying your parents, Daphne?" I shouted. She shoved past the guards, fists clenched,pletely deaf to my words. (+50) "I have information. It-" She cut herself off, nostrils ring. "You have another new toy, don''t you!? Now, show me. Where is that bitch?" A wave of heat surged through my veins, boiling beneath the surface like a volcano on the verge of eruption. "You are treading on dangerous ground, Daphne." She ignored the warning. "You''ve been entertaining that pathetic Luna from Ravenhold. You are the Lycan King! You don''t need a discarded wife to warm your bed-" That was when thest shred of my patience snapped. A sharp p cracked through the air, sending her sprawling to the ground. "How many lives do you think you have, to dare call my woman a bitch, Daphne Marjorie?" Chapter 58 Killian''s POV "Y-you hit me?!" Her trembling hand clutched the cheek I had just struck, but I only met her with a deathly re. "All for another Alpha''s wife-" 97% 1 +50 Another p cracked through the air before Daphne Marjorie could spit out another vile insult against Ruby. The sound echoed through the throne room, carrying the sting of my second blow. Even the guards shifted ufortably at the sight. Daphne stumbled back, clutching her face, her eyes wide with disbelief and betrayal. Tears welled up and spilled down her cheeks as she whispered, ¡°Killian..." "It was just a p. Hardly enough to match your insult toward Ruby Lucienne, my woman," I gritted out. "Your woman?! Have you lost your mind?!" Daphne shook her head, sobbing, one hand clutching her chest as if horrified by what she had just heard. I hadn''t meant to say it outright-I knew the risks of exposing our rtionship before our ns were fully in ce. But there was a reason I held the title of the most ruthless tyrant on this continent. "I am your cousin, Killian! You never-" "And yet, here we are," I cut her off coldly. "You overestimate your worth, Daphne." Her lips quivered before twisting into a snarl. She had learned nothing from the two warnings I had given her. Once again, she soiled Ruby''s name with her filthy mouth. "All of this madness," she spat in disgust, "it''s that whore, isn''t it? You used to love me, Killian! But now?" "She must have poisoned you! You''ve been bewitched-" The sentence never finished. I fisted a handful of her hair, ignoring her piercing scream as I dragged her across the pce grounds. Gasps rang out from the servants, knights, and noble onlookers, all frozen as they watched their king haul his own cousin like discarded filth. I had always tolerated her obsession, always let her live under the delusion that I still had any affection for her. But not again. Daphne kicked and wed, shrieking as her expensive gown scraped against the stone floors. At the end of the corridor, I flung her forward. She copsed onto the ground, sobbing, her once-perfect hair now a disheveled mess. "You monster!" Daphne wept, staring up at me with swollen eyes. "We''re family! How could you be this cruel to " "Listen, girl." My strong hand gripped her chin. "I''ve let you indulge in your delusions for far too long." "First, in case you''ve forgotten, I am far older than your parents. Show some respect. My wolf''s growl sent a pale shiver across Daphne''s face. "And second, whatever love you imagined between us never existed." She shook her head violently, tears streaming down her flushed cheeks. 09:30 Fri, 25 Apr "L-love? W-what do you mean?" she stammered like a trapped rat. My grip tightened, ws grazing her skin. A drop of blood stained my nail, and she sobbed. "Do you take me for a fool, girl?" "N-no... Never, Killian-" "But that''s exactly what you''re doing!" I shoved her away, my grip releasing so roughly that Daphne cried out in pain. "Get out of here. Now!" Imanded. Her head snapped up, and she scrambled to her feet, desperate to meet my gaze. She shook her head frantically. 97%8 +50) "You can''t do this to me! Why do you always push me away?!" She screamd, ¡°I''m right about that filthy, discarded Luna-she will only bring your ruin! I have always been by your side-" My jaw clenched, teeth grinding as the primal urge to tear out her throat itched beneath my skin. "Yourst chance has run out, girl. You have no right to step foot in mynds again." Daphne flinched as if I had struck her again. I took a slow, deliberate step forward, lowering myself until my glowing red eyes bore into hers. "Let me make this clear for you, cousin. I do not bed those who share my blood." I thundered, ¡°And while I take great pride in being a depraved tyrant, I do not indulge in incestuous filth. You need to cleanse that sick mind of yours." Her face twisted into a mixture of fury and devastation. "You will regret this!" she spat, still daring to challenge me. "She will destroy you, and when she does, I won''t be there to save you." More than done with this madness, I barked for the avable guards. "This woman has been stripped of her status. Ban her from stepping foot in my kingdom again. Get her out of my sight, now," I ordered firmly. Daphne''s defiant screams echoed through the hall as the guards seized her, dragging her away. "Killian Rudwick! Remember this! One day, everything I''ve said wille true, and you will " I turned on my heel, ignoring her hysterical shrieks as I strode toward the dungeons. Rage gnawed at my sanity, a beast barely restrained. I needed blood to quench this rage. And it was all because of that deranged bitch. ### The stench of rot and despair greeted me as I descended the stone steps of the dungeon. My newest guest: Dominic''s pathetic excuse for a spy. He hung in chains, his body battered beyond recognition. He whimpered at the sight of me. Good. Fear was my favorite perfume. My ws tore through flesh, his screams filling the vast prison. Bones snapped, warm blood sttered across my hands, staining my coat. It was a messy ughter, and though I enjoyed it, it was stillcking. I needed more than a living punching bag. 09:30 Fri, 25 Apr ? ?? 97%0 +50 When I finally stepped back, my grin was as lethal as my deadly crimson eyes as I examined the wreck of a prisoner before'' me. A severed heady nearby, thanks to my remarkable talent for decapitation. Leonidas stood beside me, unfazed as always. "Would you like the head boxed as a gift?" I smirked, wiping the blood from my cheek. "Of course. What do you think?" "Quite impressive, Your Majesty." A knight stepped forward, offering me a cigar. I epted it, letting him light the tip as I took a deep inhale. Thick smoke filled my lungs as I turned to Leonidas. "Prepare the carriage. Send it to the Ravenhold Pack. Plus with a letter," I said. Leonidas raised a brow. "Will you be attaching a love note?" I exhaled the smoke slowly, my lips curling into a wicked grin. "Oh, something like that. Dominic will love it." Hatred burned in my chest, the taste of revenge sweet on my tongue. I would ruin him, strip him of his pride, his power, and his will to live. And when the time came, I would let Ruby decide how he died. For now, I had a romantic letter to write. AD Comment Chapter 59 Ruby''s POV That day was just an ordinary day for the Ravenhold Pack. Nothing special, nothing extraordinary, except for Cami''s endless whining about her pregnancy. I had no choice but to y the role of the dutiful older sister, sitting beside her as the healer examined her swollen belly. Cami, dressed in a hospital maternity gown, wore a dramatic pout that made my eyes sting with irritation. +50 I sat next to Cami on the wooden cot, holding her hand tightly while Maria, an older healer, prepared her concoction. The scent of herbs and dried flowers lingered in the corners of the room. Cami took a deep breath, her eyes flickering toward me with a hint of nervousness. "Are you okay?" She nodded, though I could feel the slight tremor in her hand. "Just... a little nervous," she murmured. I tilted my head, frowning in confusion. "This isn''t your first prenatal check-up, Cami." "Still, sister. The nervousness never really goes away. I... worry about my baby''s condition," she admitted weakly. I ced my hand over hers, giving it a gentle squeeze while offering the most reassuring smile I could muster. "Your baby will always be healthy. You''re a good mother, Cami," I said softly. Cami blinked, a small spark returning to her eyes. "You really think so?" she asked quietly. I nodded. "Yes, Cami. So, there''s no need to worry. Trust me." Healer Maria approached Cami, carrying a bowl filled with the potion she had prepared. Dipping two fingers into the mixture, she then pressed her palm against Cami''s rounded belly. Closing her eyes, the healer began chanting an incantation. Cami flinched, her grip on me tightening instinctively. A few seconds passed before Maria finally smiled gently at her. "Your baby is healthy, Lady Cami." A radiant smile spread across Cami''s face. She turned to me briefly, as if to share the joyous news, then quickly looked back at the healer. "So... there''s no issue at all?" she asked anxiously. "No, Lady Cami. Everything looks perfectly fine. I can also determine the date of your delivery now," the healer informed her. Cami let out a smallugh, this time twice as bright. She ced a hand over her belly, as if trying to shield the little life that would soon be born into this cruel world. However, the glow on her face slowly faded. "But I''m finding it harder to sleep," she whined, rubbing her stomach. "The baby keeps kicking all night." The healer, an older woman with weary eyes, offered her a patient smile. "That''s a good sign, Luna Cami. A strong baby means a healthy baby." VY/ST FII, 25 Apr 97% Cami hummed in response, though she still looked dissatisfied. I pretended to share her concern, nodding along as if I actually cared about her sleepless nights. "Maybe it''s the father''s genes." +50 "Dominic gets restless sometimes andins a lot," Cami said quickly, letting out a awkwardlugh. "Maybe the baby will be just like him." I responded with nothing but a smile. ''Do you think I''m stupid, Cami?" After the check-up, I helped Cami hobble toward the Alpha''s Den, where Dominic was already waiting. The moment she saw him, her entire demeanor shifted. Her exhaustion vanished in an instant, and she threw herself into Dominic''s arms,ughing joyously. "Dom, I missed you!" she purred, nuzzling into him. I could barely hide my disgust as Dominic wrapped his arms around her and kissed her-right in front of me. As if I wasn''t even standing there. As if their entire existence wasn''t a p in my face. I turned away, refusing to witness any more of their pathetic disy. Just as I was about to leave, a guard stepped into the room, bowing his head. "Alpha, a package has arrived for you." Dominic tensed immediately, his entire body going rigid as his grip on Cami tightened. I nced back just in time to see paranoia flicker in his eyes. Ever since his disastrous wedding, Dominic had been receiving all sorts of disturbing gifts. Or, technically, all four of those idiotic traitors had been cursed with the same misfortune. Cami whimpered beside him, clutching his arm. "Dom... don''t open it." But Dominic was too proud, too arrogant. He dismissed her concerns. "Who dares to send me things like this?" His chin lifted as high as his confidence. "Bring it here!" The guard hesitated before nodding and disappearing briefly, only to return momentster with arge box. I frowned at its sheer size. Dominic yanked the lid open, and then came a piercing scream that shattered the air.I mped my hands over my ears before realizing that Cami had already lost consciousness. She would have copsed onto the floor if not for a nearby guard who swiftly caught her. Meanwhile, I barely had time to react. Together, we dragged her unconscious body onto the sofa. My heart pounded, torn between excitement and overwhelming curiosity. I had a pretty good idea of who was behind this chaos, but I still needed confirmation. On the other side of the room, Dominic stood frozen, his face drained of all color, as pale as death itself. He waspletely oblivious to the fact that his second wife had just fainted, her condition now posing a potential risk to her pregnancy. My gaze drifted toward the contents of the box, and I instantly mped my mouth shut, stifling a horrified scream. I stumbled backward a few steps, unable to keep looking. A head. It sat atop a pool of coagted blood, its lifeless eyes locked onto Dominic in eternal terror. My stomach churned, 09.31 Fri, 25 Apr threatening to empty itself, but that hardly mattered anymore. Not when the realization creeping into my mind far more exhrating. My eyesnded on the note beside the severed head, the unmistakable ck wax seal pressed onto the parchment. Killian. I bit back the smirk that threatened to surface. Of course, he would do something this theatrical Dominic''s hands trembled as he snatched the letter and tore it open. His eyes darted frantically over the words, his entire body shaking. Then, the paper slipped from his fingers. I stepped forward without hesitation, snatching it up to satisfy my burning curiosity [To the Honorable Alpha Dominic, I trust this gift reaches you well. A little something to remind you of what happens when someone dares to step into m kingdom uninvited. Give my regards to Cami. With all my affection, The Sovereign Lycan King, Killian Rudwick.] "D-Dominic, what have you done?!" I asked in panic, staring at him in horror. Dominic''s head snapped up, his eyes zing with fury. "This is none of your concern... That tyrant¡ª¡± "You made him angry, Dominic! The letter exins everything!" I screamed hysterically. Shaking my head, I yed my part, acting like a Luna on the verge of ruin. Both of my hands clutched at my head as if it would explode from the sheer weight of Dominic''s crimes. "Dominic, if the King has taken such action, then all of us are in danger!" He let out a frustrated roar, refusing to ept my words. Just as his hand shot toward me, the office doors burst open with a loud bang. Beta Leonidas strode in, standing tall with his air of confidence. A flicker of dark amusement danced in his single eye. "Ah, apologies for not arriving with the package. Did I miss the party?" Ìï Chapter 60 Ruby''s POV Dominic''s rage was like the wa offer The moment Leonidas stood before him, speaking with the arrogance only a Beta of the 1gcan King could posites, but Dominic longed forward. His eyes had already died to a feral golden hue, and I stepped back, Serling my chest totes as he unleashed his Alpha aura "You dare bring a threat into my pack?" he roared, his fits cleared, his byly trembling with uncontroldie bary "Are you out of your mind, Alpha Dominic? "YOU- "Alpha Dominic, you were the one who started this, he hissed, his eyes shifting from their dark shade to an icy gold. "You should have had the sense to consider what kind of atonement befits someone like you'' I had expected things to take a turn for the worse. But I hadn''t expected Dominic to act so recklessly, making the first impulsive move. His attack was so swift that I could barely register it. Yet, Leonidas was far quicker than Dominic. He moved like lightning across the sky. One blow sent Dominic crashing across the room, mming into the grand dining table, shattering it into splinters. The pack members scattered into chaos- some frozen in fear, others retreating cautiously in search of safety. They realized this was not a battle they could hope to interfere in. I covered my mouth, feigning shock. But Leonidas was not satisfied with merely knocking Dominic down. He grabbed him and mmed him into the ground once more with his ws. Blood sttered everywhere. My hysterical scream drowned out the battle cries in the background. I begged Leonidas to stop, my voice desperate, while keeping an eye on a Luna who hesitated to approach the battlefield where the two strongest warriors shed. Here, I was ying my role-making Dominic believe that I was still the obedient wife who loved him with all my soul. As I stepped closer, his furious eyes locked onto mine, and I pretended to shrink back in fear. Leonidas, always the strategist, caught on immediately and yed along. ¡°Step aside, Luna,¡± hemanded firmly, his gaze as sharp as a dagger. ¡°I came here only to deliver a message, but it seems your Alpha prefers fists over diplomacy." Dominic let out a guttural growl. "It was you and your kingdom who make this trouble first. Do you think you can humiliate me in my own pack?!" "Wow, ying the victim? How pathetic," Beta Leonidas sneered with a mocking chuckle. "Go straight to the abyss of death!" Before anyone could stop Dominic, his bones cracked and shifted. His limbs twisted unnaturally as his body expanded, his clothes tearing apart at the seams. Fur sprouted along his skin, ws elongated, and within moments, where Dominic once stood, now loomed a towering ck wolf-its fangs gleaming sharply, its eyes aze with unfathomable fury. Terror engulfed the entire pack. Shifting inside the residence, in front of his pack members, was an unmistakable disy of dominance-a clear sign that Dominic had no intention of resolving this matter peacefully. Yet, Leonidas remained unfazed. A smug smirk curled on his lips. "Oh? So you want to y rough, Alpha Dominic?" And with that, he shifted. The fight erupted into chaos. 09:31 Fri, 25 Apr It happened in a sh. Dominic lunged, but Leonidas twisted through the air, evading his snapping jaws. The Reta retaliated with a powerful swipe of his ws, sending Dominic crashing onto the floor, deep gashes marring the wooden surface. The gathered pack members scattered in haste. Heavy breathing and panicked cries filled the residence. My fake parents, who had been resting in their chambers, rushed into the hall, their faces contorted in rm. "What in the world is going on?! What is happening?!" Then my fake mother turned to me. "Ruby, exin this at once!" I shook my head, feigning a stammer as if still in shock. "M-Mother... Dominic and Beta Leonidas- "Stop this!" Nathaniel''s voice thundered, though it carried more fear than authority. "Someone separate them before-" A deafening crash of splintering wood echoed through the air. Dropping my act as the stunned Luna, I swiftly moved to block Nathaniel''s enforcers. "No one interferes!" I shouted. I turned to the two wolves locked in battle. "Alpha Dominic! Beta Leonidas!" Raising my voice, Imanded, "This is madness! Control yourselves before you end up hurting the innocent members of this pack!" Dominic didn''t listen. But Leonidas did. With a powerful strike, he brought Dominic down, pinning him to the ground. He shifted back into his human form, his boot pressing against Dominic''s heaving chest. The room fell into sudden silence as he spoke. "Look," Leonidas said with deadly calm, "this is what happens when arrogance blinds you." With a sharp kick to the pitiful Alpha''s head, Leonidas stepped back, retreating to the side. The pack members rushed to Dominic''s side, dragging him away as he gasped for air, his pride left in ruins. My parents hurried forward, their expressions torn between horror and rage. Nathaniel turned to Leonidas, his eyes wide with fear. "Beta Leonidas?" Nathaniel stared at him, trembling, perhaps terrified by the conclusions forming in his mind. "What has Dominic done to cause all this?" Leonidas wiped the blood from his knuckles before shrugging indifferently. "Oh, nothing much. Just a little spying. A little betrayal. A little attempt to test my King''s patience." Nathaniel paled. "By the revered Moon Goddess... Tell me you''re lying." Leonidas smirked, stepping forward, forcing Nathaniel to retreat. "Would I lie about something that might cost your dear son-inw his life?" His grin widened, shark-like, as if he were circling prey. His towering frame loomed over Nathaniel. "The King is on his way. If I were you, I''d start preparing to beg." Nathaniel froze as though a bucket of ice water had been dumped over his head. "B-Beta, please,¡± he whispered, desperation dripping from his voice. "Give me time. I can fix this." 09:31 Fri, 25 Apr # I nced at Leonidas as he tilted his head. "You think I care about your pleas?" he scoffed, "Speak to the King yourself. I''m just the messenger? ¶àά Fear and chaos blended into the air around us. But before anyone could utter a single word, a sortex of bright light enged within the room. Energy pulsed like a heartbeat, sending waves of magic rippling through the air. 1 braced myself. My thoughts immediately went to Killian. But then a familiar voice filled the space. "Oh my, did 1 just walk into a miniature apocalypse?* 1 blinked. "Nora?" The vortex dissipated, and there she stood-my best friend, the Grand Witch, Nora. d in her usual entric robes, she surveyed the disaster before her with both arms crossed over her chest. Nathaniel stammered, furious at the sight of her arrival. "You again?! What are you doing here?!" Nora ignored him, her gaze fixed directly on me. "Ruby, darling, I traveled all this way, and the first thing I see is a man bleeding on the floor. You really need to work on your hospitality." I could barely suppress a smile at the woman''s antics. "Oh, trust me," I exhaled, nced at Dominic''s bruised and battered form, "you showed up at very perfect time?" Chapter 61 Ruby''s POV "You know, I only came to check on you, but it seems like..." ?? .97%2 Nora dicked her tongue, her emerald eyes sharpening as they took in the scene before her. "I''ve just walked into an impending bloodbath. Perhaps I should leave before I''m cursed for witnessing a massacre." 1 let out a sigh, casting her an apologetic nce. "Forgive me, Nora. I''ll exin everythingter. Her gaze softened, and with an understanding nod, she took a step back. "Very well, my dearest friend. But don''t make me wait too long," she said, her words apanied by a yful wink. Nathaniel couldn''t hold back his disdain for Nora, and he voiced it loudly, earning displeased looks from several of Leonidas'' soldiers. I recalled that the grand mages had good rtions with many kingdoms, and it seemed that Nathaniel''s prejudice would eventuallye back to haunt him. As Nora turned to leave, I caught her gaze lingering on Leonidas-and, to my disbelief, the golden-eyed lycan was looking right back at her. I resisted the urge to roll my eyes. Were they locked in some battle of wits and temptation? This world might just split in two! Returning to the matter at hand, Leonidas turned to Nathaniel. "Get Dominic out of here. Now," Leonidas'' voice grew harsher as Nathaniel dared to interrupt. "I doubt your son- inw will survive if the King is greeted by his pathetic face." Nathaniel, his face pale, barked orders at the nearest guards. Dominic, barely conscious, was carried away to the infirmary. His inws stepped forward, their expressions filled with terror. They knew what wasing. And then he arrived. A portal split the air, tendrils of energy crackling as Killian Rudwick stepped through with the grace of a ruler and the presence of a deadly storm. The moment his boots touched the ground, the weight of his power pressed upon everyone in the courtyard. His crimson eyes, glowing with dangerous delight, swept over the gathered crowd. Nathaniel and his wife immediately bowed deeply, their trembling bodies betraying their fear. "Your Majesty!" Nathaniel eximed, sweat beading on his temples. "I-it is an honor to wee you to our pack-" he stammered, ncing around nervously before gripping his wife''s hand. "Nevertheless, I would like to offer my sincerest apologies for-" Killian flicked his hand, a silentmand for Nathaniel to stop talking, his gaze sweeping over the destruction left in the wake of the previous battle. His eyes settled on Leonidas. "Exin." Leonidas straightened. "Alpha Dominic shifted and attacked me. I merely acted in self-defense." "As expected," Killian murmured, shaking his head. "And where is he now?" "In treatment, Your Majesty," Leonidas'' Beta replied. +50 09:31 Fri, 25 Apr "It seems you were angry enough to put an Alpha in the infirmary" The one-eyed Beta barely concealed his satisfaction at his king''s remark. * 97% "Quite entertaining, though I''m hardly pleased that the man dared to insult you," he stated. Killian let out a quiet, disappointed sigh. His gaze flickered toward Nathaniel, utterly unimpressed. "And you must already be aware of your son-inw''s crimes without me having to exin them." Nathaniel panicked. He rushed forward, falling to his knees before Killian, pressing his forehead to the ground. "Your Majesty! I beg you, please show mercy. Dominic may be reckless and arrogant, but he is still my son-inw. Please, spare him!" His wife followed suit, her voice trembling as she echoed his plea. "He is still young, my King! We will discipline him properly!" Desperation creeping into her voice, the false mother added, "Please, punish him if you must, but do not take his life!" Pathetic. They truly believed they could appeal to a mercy Killian did not possess. Disgust was in on Killian''s cold features. He offered no reply, leaving the two immoral creatures groveling at his feet. He exhaled deeply before shifting his gaze. "Ruby." I jolted at the sound of my name. As if on cue, I automatically stepped forward, my body stiffening under his crimson gaze as he extended a hand toward me. I hesitated before cing my hand in his. A smirk curled at his lips as he lifted my hand, pressing a kiss to my without once breaking eye contact. knuckles I blushed, the tips of my ears burning. Meanwhile, Killian was thoroughly enjoying my reaction, and I exercised great patience not to re at the infuriating Lycan king. "You look well," he spoke as if we were the only two people in the courtyard. "Tell me, did you miss me?" I nearly choked. Murmurs of confusion and hushed whispers erupted in the background. Damn it, was he really going to expose everything now? This wasn''t how it was supposed to happen, but the bastard looked far too amused by it! "Y-Your Majesty, I doubt this is the time for small talk," I stammered. "Nonsense. I always have time for you, darling." My traitorous heart stuttered at the way he said it. But then, his gaze shifted- darkening with something I didn''t want to decipher. His grip tightened slightly. "Your husband has betrayed me." The words fell like stones, silencing the courtyard. Then, Killian turned his attention to my deceitful parents. "I assume you, my dear Ruby, were already aware now, given how much your husband hate me so much," hemented, like a theatrical actor. Nathaniel and his wife wentpletely pale, frozen in ce. Killian cast me a dramatic look, running his thumb over the back of my hand as if he genuinely regretted the situation. "I despise traitors. Truly." He sighed wearily before lifting his gaze back to me. "Ruby, my dear, I apologize in advance. But Dominic must be punished. I trust you understand." 0931 FI, 25 Apr A chill crawled down my spine. Everyone in the courtyard remained frozen, holding their breath, waiting. Nathaniel let out a strangled sound. "Your Majesty, please! There must be another way- "Like the gift I sent this morning 97% +50 11 Nathaniel''s wife clutched her husband''s arm, her face turning ghastly ugly pale. She covered her mouth, copsing to the ground as if the executioner''s de hung over her head. The realization crashed over them like a wave of ice. They had all seen the gruesome message Killian had sent. They knew what it meant for Dominic. Nathaniel trembled violently in a way I found most satisfying. His body sagged in defeat, yet his lips still quivered, desperate to plead. I had expected Killian to be ruthless, but witnessing it firsthand.... Magnificent. Killian''s crimson eyes softened slightly as they met mine, even his lips twitching in amusement at my silence. "Wouldn''t you agree, my dear?" "I trust Your Majesty''s judgment," I finally replied. AD Comment Send gift Chapter 62 4 397% 4+50) Nathaniel''s gaze burned toward Raby, his face twisted in barely contained fury I could see the veins in his neck bulging as he clenched his fists, but he didn''t dare at Wise I had already toyed with the idea of beheading him right here and now for his pathetic disy of authority. His foolish arrogance in front of me was more amusing than offensive, but his stupidity tested my patience Then, a panicked scream tore through the midday air "Where is my husbander Cami The poor pregnant woman staggered forward, barely able to keep herself upright, her golden curls in disarray as she forced her way into the scene. Her eyes darted wildly, searching, pleading Her parents reached her first. They whispered in her ear, no doubt delivering the tragic news about her husband. Cami''s expression changed instantly. Her trembling body was wrapped in her mother''s arms, soothing her. But then, she shoved her mother away. It wasn''t enough When she came to her senses and her eyesnded on me, she crawled forward with her swollen belly and copsed at my feet. Her hands clutched the hem of my robe like a desperate fool "Please, Your Majesty! You can''t take him away"" "M-maybe someone set him up... framed him for this," she pleaded, her voice thick with tears. "Please, have mercy on him I sneered down at her, resisting the urge to step on her trembling fingers. What a pathetic sight. This woman had no shame, no dignity. Who would have thought- this was the creature Dominic discarded for the sake of a diamond. "Leonidas" That was all I needed to say. My Beta immediately stepped forward, grabbing Cami by the arm and pulling her away from me as she kicked and screamed. She thrashed in his grip, wailing like a banshee, her cries nearly splitting my skull. "Get her away from me," I ordered coldly. "N-no, please! Your Majesty!" Leonidas obediently dragged her away like garbage. I watched with satisfaction as she copsed, sobbing on the ground. It would have been more entertaining if she weren''t so loud. I flicked my hand in disgust, entirely indifferent to the fact that she was pregnant. Her parents quickly rushed to their beloved daughter, falling at Leonidas'' feet, begging him to stop dragging her away. But then, Nathaniel-despite his half-witted judgment-dared to run toward me. He rubbed his trembling hands together as he turned to face me, attempting to plead once more. "Your Majesty." He knelt before me, the deep lines on his aged face stark under the sunlight. "I beg you, please don''t take Dominic away! W-we can handle his punishment within our own pack! There''s no need for a trial in your kingdom!" 09:31 Fri, 25 Apr I tilted my head, studying him, savoring the desperation etched across his face. Pathetic. 39/70 "And you would let him off with just a p on the wrist?" I scoffed. "No, Nathaniel. You had your chance to control your pack. You failed." The old man flinched, and I continued, my wordsced with a growl.. "Now, I will do what you could not, Nathaniel Lucienne." Nathaniel''s hands clenched into fists. "Please! He is my son-inw-" "Not for much longer." My voice dropped into a chilling calm, sending shivers down the spines of those who witnessed it. The air grew thick with tension, suffocating in its weight. My guards moved in unison at Leonidas'' signal, and within moments, Dominic-weak, bloodied, and barely conscious-was dragged forward and thrown at my feet. He groaned, coughing up blood, and for a moment, I considered letting him die here. But no. That would be too merciful. He needed to suffer. Publicly. "Take him," Imanded, my fury simmering beneath my tone. "Take him to my kingdom. We will give him a fair trial!" A cruel smirk curled on my lips. We all knew how this trial would end. The guards moved swiftly, shackling Dominic in silver chains that seared his flesh. He choked out a strangled groan as he was dragged away, his body too weak to resist. The members of the Ravenhold Pack watched in eerie silence, knowing there was no one left to save their Alpha. This was tant humiliation. Not even their elders dared to show their faces here. "No! Nooo!" Cami''s scream tore through the air as she lunged forward, but Leonidas easily blocked her path, sending her stumbling back onto the ground. "Please, don''t take him! He''s my husband!" I pinched the bridge of my nose. Damn that wretch. She had already fainted once, and now I had to hear her shrill voice again. Nathaniel was next. "Your Majesty, I will do anything-" "Anything, you said?" I mocked, resisting the urge to backhand him across the face. "Should I take your head instead? A father''s punishment in ce of his son- inw''s?" Nathaniel went pale as a sheet, his mouth opening and closing like a fish gasping for air. I chuckled and turned away, dismissing him entirely. My gazended on Ruby, and just like that, the fire of my rage dimmed. She stood still,posed, but I caught the glint of satisfaction in her blue eyes. Smart girl. She knew exactly what this meant. She knew that her enemies were finally falling- one by one. And this was only the beginning. She met my gaze, and I reached for her hand, pulling her close. "I should have done this sooner," I murmured, brushing my lips against her ear. "And I will make sure it''s much more entertaining." 09:31 Fri, 25 Apr Her breath hitched, and she tried to pull away, whispers already rising around us- this would be a scantal "Y-Your Majesty... I-I mean, Killian, people are watching- My grip tightened around her waist, drawing a soft, involuntary whimper from her lips. "Are you ashamed to acknowledge us?" I asked darkly. "F-forgive me. I''m not ashamed at all. It''s just... look around you," she whispered urgently I shrugged indifferently, pulling her even closer. "They''re nothing but thorns. Insignificant, Ruby," I remarkedzily. Both of us could feel Nathaniel''s shock along with his wife''s and Cami''s as they witnessed the scene before them. Our closeness. It must have given them an idea. I raised my voice, turning to face the fearful expressions before me. "Let this be a lesson. Betrayal has only one punishment: death.¡± A shudder ran through the crowd, and they could do nothing but lower their heads as much as possible. Their hands remained hidden behind their backs, some clenched near their chests as if silently praying to the gods for this dreadful day to end. Good. Then, turning back to Ruby, I lifted her chin with a single finger, my smirk softening just for her. "Shall we go home, little wolf?" She hesitated, ncing toward the pack members she held dear, but I saw the answer in her eyes before she even spoke. Rudy''s PON 1 had never failed, in a world tour did nor Belong to me This was my second what here dara Kallie Bud muuddenly taken me to his domain, Bor it could hardly be considered a visit. He hadn''t brought me kete qyathey, I had been kidnapped for a few hours The quest chamber in the Sowdrench Kingdom was havish far beyond anything had ever known. The silk sheets felt soft beneath my fingers, the owns were embroidered with golden thread, and the air was filled with the scent of fresh roses. Voverything here was meant to exudefort, bezory, and security. And yet, I felt none of it. Not with this anxiety. My park was blind me now. The ce I once called home, the burden I carried, was gone. I hadn''t even told Amara anything before leaving I had simply vanished from the world I knew, swallowed by the will of a Lycan king who had no intention of letting me go. And now, I had no idea where I was. Killian had note to see me since he left me in this room. I shouldn''t expect anything from him-he was a king, after all -but his silence haunted me. I couldn''t help but wonder when he woulde. "Calm yourself, Ruby, Leva, my wolf, warned. I can''t be calm. I... I''m just a nehody here! I replied anxiously Leia let out a disapproving sound. Instead of that, why don''t we take back our pack''s name? I absolutely despise how Dominic changed W I had almost forgotten about that. Our pack''s original name was The Winterdawn Pack, but Dominic had rebranded it as Ravenhold Pack in the name of reform. I had loathed him for it ever since I realized his true intentions. He wanted to erase all the hard work my family and I had put into building our pack. In the midst of my rising fury as a Luna, a soft yet polite knock echoed through the room. "My Lady?" A gentle yet authoritative voice called from the other side of the heavy door. "May we enter?" I jolted upright from the bed, my gaze snapping toward the grand door. My heart pounded. "Ce in." The door opened, revealing an older woman with ck hair streaked with silver, dressed in a pristine maid''s uniform. Behind her stood six younger women, each dressed simrly, their heads bowed in respect. The older woman stepped forward and curtsied with practiced grace. "I am Madam Therese, the head of His Majesty''s personal staff," she introduced herself. "We have been assigned to serve you at the King''smand." I blinked, startled. "Serve me?" "Yes, My Lady" The young maids stepped forward, and before I could utter a single word, they had already surrounded me. One retrieved a fresh nightgown from the wardrobe, another began preparing the bath, while others tidied up an already spotless room. Madam Therese merely observed with an approving gaze. 09:31 Fri, 25 Apr Chapter 63 By the gods, do I not get a say in this? I held back a sigh of resignation. It wasn''t that their choices were bad-far from it. Everything was exquisite. But they were all strangers, and they were touching me so freely. My eyes flickered toward the bathing area. The grand bathtub gleamed, filled with warm, fragrant water. Tensing slightly, I allowed them to guide me in, feeling the tension in my muscles gradually ease as the soothing floral scent enveloped me. They worked in silence, washing my hair with gentle fingers, scrubbing my skin until it was unbelievably soft. I had experienced such care before, back when myte handmaid was still with me. But not since she was gone. Even though Amara had remained loyal to me, I still struggled to ept anyone else taking care of me like this. Now, I was using every ounce of willpower not to bolt with all these strangers around me. Leia sent a calming wave through me. "Rx, Ruby. It''s alright." I tried. I really did. But I still felt uneasy about all of this. As I stepped out of the bath, a silk robe was draped over my shoulders before I was gently guided to an ornate vanity. "My Lady, His Majesty will be expecting you at dinnerter," Madam Therese finally spoke. I froze, theb in my maid''s hand pausing mid-stroke. "Dinner?" "With the King," she confirmed. I nodded awkwardly, forcing a small smile. "Very well, Madam." They continued their work, dressing me in a deep crimson gown that hugged my figure. Intricate gold embroidery swirled along the bodice, shimmering under the candlelight. My hair was styled into elegant waves, and my lips were painted a soft shade of pink. When I finally looked into the mirror, I barely recognized the woman staring back at me. The maids gasped in admiration. "Wow, incredible!" "Truly, this is stunning. I had my doubts about choosing crimson, but now..." "My Lady, you look breathtaking," one of the maids whispered in awe. Heat crept up my cheeks, spreading all the way to the tips of my ears. I nced at them from beneath myshes and offered a small smile. "Thank you," I murmured shyly. They fell silent, as if stunned that I had acknowledged them. The realization made me ufortable. Had no one ever treated them kindly before? Had they expected me to be cruel? "You don''t have to look so surprised," I added quickly. "I appreciate your work." The room remained quiet before Madam Therese''s lips curved into something resembling warmth. "You are unlike anyone we have ever served before, My Lady." I wasn''t sure if that was a good thing or a bad thing. So, I simply nodded and remained polite and gracious to them, just as T11, 23 MPI they had been to me. ±Øʳ97% 950 Night fell faster than I had expected. Soon, I was escorted to the royal banquet hall. The grand doors swung open before me, revealing a long dining table adorned with candlelight and gleaming silverware. And at the very end, exuding an aura of sheer dominance, sat Killian. Alone. I swallowed hard as his crimson eyes locked onto mine. He did not rise, but his gaze burned through me, absorbing every inch of my form. "You kept me waiting." he said smoothly. "I wasn''t aware that I had a choice," I shot back, my voiceced with sarcasm. A smirk yed on his lips as he gestured for me to sit. Dinner was served shortly after, and I found myself mesmerized by how effortlessly he shifted from an arrogant ruler to an attentive host. He ted my food himself, ensuring I ate enough, his gaze never once leaving mine. By the time dessert arrived, I had begun to rx-until suddenly, I was no longer in my seat. One moment, I was sipping my wine, and the next, I was perched on his I gasped, my hands pressing against his chest. "Killian-" He silenced me, one arm wrapping firmly around my waist. "You''ve been avoiding me." I scoffed, ring at him. "You left me in that room without a word." He chuckled, his fingers tracing the intricate patterns along the fabric of my gown. "I''ve been busy dealing with fools who don''t know their ce." I tensed. "You mean Dominic?" He sighed, rubbing his temple with his free hand. "Among others. News of his arrest spread like wildfire. The nobles and the media are having a field day with it." The realization hit me like a punch to the gut. "You mean... people know? About us?" Killian tilted his head, watching me closely. "Are you afraid of public opinion?" I pursed my lips, summoning the courage to touch the sharp lines of his aristocratic jaw. "I used to be. But now, all I care about is your reputation." His expression darkened, his grip tightening ever so slightly. "Do you think a title tied to an unworthy man is enough to tarnish my name?" I parted my lips to speak, but the words caught in my throat. His crimson eyes burned with something dangerous- possessive, untamed. "Let them talk, Ruby." Then, he smirked, pulling down the zipper of my gown as effortlessly as he crushed his enemies. "Wouldn''t you agree that it''s time we discussed bringing back The Winterdawn Pack?" 09/1 Ìï Chapter 64 Ruby''s POV My eyes widened like saucers, utterly stunned. My mind had been consumed with thoughts of my pack-the home I had left behind, the people I had abandoned- wondering if I would ever return. Yet, in just a few words, Killian had shattered all of that, offering me something I had never even dared to dream of. He was giving me back my birthright-my home. I couldn''tprehend why. I had assumed he would use me as a ything, a pet, once this was over (and he had already started). But every time I braced myself for the worst, he acted... nothing like the monster I had imagined. "Why?" I whispered. His brows furrowed. "You''ll have to be more specific, little wolf." I swallowed hard, barely able to his gaze. "Killian, why are you doing this for me? This is far beyond... our agreement." Killian tilted his head slightly, as if searching for the right words, his touch still lingering on my skin. "Your father was a great Alpha," he b his voice carrying a hint of nostalgia. "One of the few men who never cowered before me, even on my worst days. He was fearless. Stubborn. An absolute thorn in my side." His lips curved into something that almost resembled a smile. "But I respected him." I took a shaky breath. My father. A man I only remembered in fragmented memories-memories stolen from me when Nathaniel ripped me away from where I truly belonged. Hearing Killian speak of him like that, with something close to admiration, made my chest ache in a way I hadn''t been prepared for. "I understand a thing or two about ownership," Killian continued, his thumb grazing my cheekbone. "Seeing your pack, your legacy, stolen and renamed by a treacherous fool like Dominic... well, there''s only one solution. Erase him." "But I know," he mused, as if discussing the weather, "simply erase him off the face of the earth without worldly punishment would be far too merciful." A disbelievingugh escaped my lips. The honesty in his words, the casual way he spoke about such brutality-it should have horrified me. And yet, instead, it made me feel warm. I was always the one who fought. No one had ever done it for me-I was always the one looking out for everyone else. It felt strange. But for the first time in years, someone was willing to fight for me. And it was him. The most feared man in the world. I didn''t realize I was crying until Killian''s expression be sour. His brows furrowed, a flicker of panic crossing his face. "What now?" he grumbled, his hands gripping my shoulders as if I might faint. "Why are you crying?" I buried my face in my hands, shaking my head. "I don''t-I don''t know," I choked between sobs. "No one has ever done something like this for me. I just... I don''t know how to handle it," I admitted, trying-and failing-to stop the flow of these ridiculous tears. Killian let out a frustrated sigh. "For god''s sake, Ruby, you''re being ridiculous." U9.31 Fr, 25 Apr I peeked at him through dampshes, and to my surprise, a deep crease of concern marred kas sterwe were face But, of course, he still grumbled. Annoying man. "Stop crying. You''re getting my clothes wet," he groaned, as if he could simplymand the emotions of A weakugh bubbled past my lips, though I was still huping. I patted his arm. "You''re incredibly rude. That''s not how youfort someone who''s upset," I shored His lips twitched. "Yeah? And yet, you still threw yourself into my arms" That only made me cry harder. Killian looked even more frustrated, the furrow of irritation at his temple deepening Killian groaned, tugging at my cheek in exasperation. "Can you stop that? Goddamn, I''ve tortured people and fer les quiry than I do right now!" He hesitated before pressing his lips to my forehead, his deep baritone softening "If I had known something this simple would break you, I would''ve done it sooner." I blinked up at him, my breath hitching at the quiet sincerity in his tone. He sighed again, running a hand through his hair "Do you want to hear about them? Your parents?" I nodded immediately, clutching at his shirt. "Please." Killian leaned back, his gaze distant as he spoke. "Your father was one of the few Alphas who endured during my rise to power. He was fierce-a true warrior-but he wasn''t reckless. He knew when to fight and when to retreat" I swallowed the lump in my throat. "And my mother?" A strange expression flickered across his face. "Your mother... was different. Isabe. That was her old name, as I recall. before she chose to change it." I simply listened, hanging onto every word. My mother sounded incredible. "She was a former healer. A woman with a heart far too soft for this world. And yet, she loved your father fiercely," he scoffed, idly twirling a lock of my golden hair between his fingers. "I never understood how someone so gentle could fall for a beast like him." Then he smirked at me, something knowing shing in those crimson eyes. "But I suppose history does tend to repeat itself." I flushed. This bastard thought he could y games? I smacked his chest in annoying, ring at him as if my stare alone could shoot arrows straight through him. "Just keep talking, Your Majesty," I huffed. Both of his hands lifted in surrender, and I pouted, trying to hide my amusement at the tyrant''s ridiculous antics. "Alright, alright. The point is, Isabe was the very definition of a kindhearted woman. Too kind, even. And your father knew it. He was fiercely protective, keeping her away from war, from anything that could taint her." He studied me for a moment before his thumb brushed against my lips. My skin burned under the intensity of his gaze. "I see a part of her in you. Her spirit. Her gentleness." My heart ached. "I wish I could remember her." 09:31 Fri, 25 Apr Killian exhaled heavily. "I don''t have any pictures of them. But I can restore what they built Tears welled up in my eyes again, but this time, I held them back. "That''s enough," I whispered. His lips quirked. "Good. Because the restoration of The Winterdawn Pack has already begun." I stiffened. "What?" Killian raised a brow at my reaction. "Did you think I would wait? It will take time, but I''ve already started moving things into ce." Panic red in me. "Why didn''t you tell me first?!" He smirked, looking far too pleased with himself. "It was meant to be a small surprise before my bigger gift." I gaped at him. "A bigger gift?" "You''ll see soon enough." My head spun wildly. This was too much. Too fast. I hadn''t even caught my breath to question if this was truly real. I ced a hand on his chest, intending to push him away, but he caught my wrist and pulled me in-his mouth iming mine in a deep, intoxicating kiss. My protests vanished instantly as his fingers tangled into my hair, tilting my head back while he devoured me with a hunger that burned. When we finally pulled apart, I was gasping for air, my skin flusheda mix of anger and embarrassment. "Killian... you shouldn''t have..." The sudden tightness in my throat made it impossible to continue. His gaze darkened. "Shouldn''t have what, little wolf?" "Why are you doing all of this?" I bit my lip, tears welling at the corners of my eyes, burning. "Even my offer to you... it could neverpare to what you''ve done for me." For the first time, Killian didn''t respond immediately. His crimson eyes locked onto mine unreadable, so intense. And then, finally, he spoke what I can''t expected. "Because of you, Ruby Lucienne." Ìï Chapter 65 Killian''s POV The room was silent, except for the rhythmic breathing of the woman lying in my bed. My Ruby. The soft glow of the firece cast a golden hue on her porcin skin, illuminating the gentle rise and fall of her chest. She looked so peaceful, so untouched by the nightmares of the world when she was like this. The spell was enough to ward off any disturbances. I carried her here myself. When she started to grow tired, I lifted her without a second thought, paying no mind to the whispers of the servants or the startled expressions of the guards. They had never seen their King act this way-gentle, attentive, devoted. None of those words were true. I was simply doing what I wanted. Ruby was mine. She had been mine since the first moment Iid eyes on her. The world just hadn''t realized it yet. My fingers traced along her arm, careful not to wake her. She shifted slightly but did not stir. Good. Let her rest. Let her good dream. For now. But soon, I would carve my name into every part of her life until there was no way out. Until she stopped pretending she didn''t want me the way I wanted her. She sighed in her sleep, her lips parting slightly, and I clenched my fists against the heat that surged through me. No man had the right to see her like this-only me. No one else. Elysian''s voice echoed in my mind. "Have you imed her already? How amusing." "Shut your mouth, El." "Hoho,ing from someone who ims not to need affection." I grit my teeth. "Just because you are a part of me does not mean I tolerate your behavior." "And what? Are you ashamed to admit you''ve fallen?" Elysian sneered. "Love has no ce in my vocabry," I replied, my gaze never leaving the Luna before me. "I am simply keeping my treasure close." "We are one soul, Killian. Lying is not an art we excel at," he retorted. The idea of love and my life of sin did not belong in the same sentence. I had long epted that. I had chosen solitude for the sake of my ambitions. For an immeasurable span of time, since I sought immortality and power, I had never had else. It was a curse I hade to embrace, and I did not care.panion like everyone And now, with one woman throwing my world into chaos, I had to question my own principles. "You can be honest with me, Killian. I have never betrayed my own soul," Elysian added, his tone almost gentle. I did not answer him. I simply stood there, drowning in the warmth of Ruby''s breathing in the stillness of the room. But my peace was short-lived. There was unfinished business. I instructed Elysian to table the discussion forter. Pressing a lingering kiss to her forehead, I inhaled the intoxicating scent of her skin before forcing myself to rise. A reluctant departure, but a necessary one. 09:31 Fri, 25 Apr There was a rat in my dungeon that required my attention. 97% +50) The dungeon reeked of blood and filth-a fitting ce for a traitor. Dominic slumped against the cold stone wall, his wrists shackled in silver, his once- pristine face now marred with cuts and bruises. A masterpiece by Leonidas. My dear cousin hadn''t stopped showing it off. Though I could sense a tinge of disappointment in him, because the so-called mighty Alpha Dominic wasn''t nearly as formidable as the rumors imed. Dominic hovered between consciousness and oblivion. His breaths were shallow, as if each inhale was a reminder of his impending demise. I wondered which part of his body Leonidas had broken to make the arrogant man struggle to breathe. Leonidas stood beside me, arms crossed, watching our prisoner with a mix of disgust and amusement. ¡°You should have killed me," Dominic spat, blood dripping from his lips. I chuckled. "Why would I grant you that mercy?" Dominic''s eyes burned with hatred. "You stole everything from me!" "Stole?" I feigned shock, clenching my chest as if hurt. "What exactly did I steal from someone like you, Dominic?" And then I crouched before him, gripping his chin harshly, forcing him to meet my gaze. "Everything that happened-you brought it upon yourself.¡± "And do you know what I despise the most?" My growl rumbled in my throat, my dominant aura slipping free. ¡°You tainted the pack that was once the jewel among wolves. You spat on its legacy, twisted its traditions, and dared to name it as if you had the right!" He flinched, but his stubborn pride kept him from looking away. "You think you deserve that Alpha title?" I sneered,ughter spilling from my lips. "You''re nothing but a poor substitute; a pathetic shadow of what the Winterdawn Pack once was! Nathaniel should have known better than to entrust it to you!" Dominic snarled, his body trembling against the force pressing down on him. "Nathaniel gave me that position because he trusted me! The old ways were weak! I built something stronger." Iughed, throwing my head back before shaking it in disbelief. ¡°You built nothing but a rotting foundation. Your strength is nothing but an illusion, Dominic. You rule over traitors, liars, and cowards who cower the moment they witness true power!" His jaw clenched, his breathing in ragged gasps. I could see the fury boiling inside him, but he was powerless against me. How pitiful. I leaned in closer, my voice dropping to a whisper. "And you made one fatal mistake." Dominic''s breathing grew erratic as I curled my ws around his throat, applying just enough pressure to see the panic sh across his face. "You hurt what''s mine," I hissed, venomcing my words. His fingers wed at my grip, but I only tightened it. His body trembled, his lips parting as if to beg for air. But I was not feeling merciful. Not yet. "Did you really think she would suffer under you forever?" I saw fear flicker in his eyes. I squeezed harder, his words cutting off into strangled gasps. "She belongs to me." Dominic''s face turned red, his body convulsing as I stole the breath from his lungs. Just a little longer. Just enough to remind him that I could end him whenever I pleased. That his life was in my hands. 09.32 FI, 25 Apr Then, I let go. He copsed forward, choking and gasping for air, his entire body trembling violently. With disgust. I wiped my hand on his tattered shirt. "You''re not even worth a stain of her blood." Leonidas stepped forward, his expression unimpressed despite the blood sttered on my white shirt. "Shall we chain him back up. Your Majesty?" I turned away from Dominic, already bored. "No. Let him stew in his own misery I was done wasting my breath on him. And tomorrow, I had three more sewer rats to deal with. Perhaps a bath and joining Ruby for the night would be a far better use of my time. Chapter 66 $ 98% Killian''s POV "This is not funny at all!" Ruby''s delicate fingers rested on my wrist, her touch firm yet trembling. Her sapphire eyes-usually filled with gentle emotions-were now clouded with unease, searching my face for an answer I had yet to give. (091 "You''re leaving," she said, a mixture of displeasure and difort in her voice at the idea that she wouldn''t be allowed to show her face. "And I''m left here all alone. What''s so fun about that?" "I have my reasons, little wolf," I coaxed, my fingers threading through her golden strands. "I still don''t like it." I sighed, lifting my hand to cup her cheek. "It''s only for a while." My thumb brushed against her soft skin, and I could feel the warmth of her breath as she exhaled shakily. "You knew this would happen, Ruby." "I know,¡± she admitted weakly. "You''re doing everything, and I''m just... I don''t know. It feels unfair." "You''re talking about fairness to a tyrant?" I asked, amused, raising an eyebrow. "Tyrant or not, I still think it''s unfair to you," she replied stubbornly. I fell silent. No one had ever spoken of fairness for me like that before. Not that I ever deserved it, after centuries of sins weighing on my soul. And for it toe from a woman like her... I felt my chest tighten, warmth spreading through every cell of my body. What is this? Elysian scoffed through our bond. "I''m right, aren''t I? You''re more than just interested in her." "Are we really discussing this again?" I replied wearily. "Don''t you dare sigh at me when I''m the one guiding you through this," Elysian growled in annoyance. "We''ll talkter." The connection cut off, and my attention immediately locked back onto the woman who had been disturbing both thoughts and my soul. Ruby narrowed her eyes, muttering. "Were you dealing with your wolf again all of a sudden?" A smirk tugged at my lips. "Well, you know how he is." my Ruby shot me a sharp look before shrugging indifferently, turning her face away. When I reached out to touch her again, she brushed my hand off. "I''m still mad and I still hate this," she grumbled. "You don''t have to like it, just trust me." I leaned in again, inhaling her scent-a delicate blend of moonflowers and honey clinging to her skin. "And this is all for you. I''ll be back before you even have the chance to miss me." She scoffed, though the faint blush on her cheeks betrayed her indifference. 07:30 Sat, 26 Apr "Arrogant as always." "Confident," I corrected. 2 30/0 4450 And then, my hand slid to the back of her neck, tilting her head upward to meet my lips in a slow, searing kiss. She melted into me, her fingers tightening around the fabric of my tunic, as if afraid I would vanish forever once we parted. Damn, I had never felt this needed-this desperate for someone. I was the one to pull away first, albeit reluctantly, resting my forehead against hers. "I have unfinished business, too." My cherry blossom swallowed, her blue eyes growing slightly cloudy. "The others?" I nodded. "Nathaniel, your fake mother, and Cami. Their time is up." Her hands clenched against my chest as she whispered hoarsely, "A-and the baby? What are you going to do?" "That will be answered by Cami." Ruby shook her head frantically, her grip on my clothes tighter than before. "P-please, don''t. The baby is innocent. You know how Cami is if..." she swallowed hard, her face pale as a ghost. "God, I''ve been watching her throughout her pregnancy. She has the potential to kill her own child as a threat!" I tilted my head, clearly confused. "You care that much about the baby? Even though it belongs to the woman who betrayed you?" "Yes! A child should never be punished for who their parents are!¡± she answered firmly, her voice zing with conviction. This went against my principles. Ruby still carried so much kindness within her, and it unsettled me. But at the same time, I didn''t want it to disappear. It was like an anchor, reminding me that there were still good people in this world. I felt bitterness gather in my mouth. Unfortunately, not everyone in my life was one of them. Only a handful. Her lips parted as if she wanted to say something, but she held it back. Instead, she reached out, tracing my jaw with a gentle touch, "I have never begged for my own life before you. But for that baby, I beg with my life on the line." "I''ll try to remember that." I pressed onest kiss to her lips before stepping back, watching her reluctantly let me go. And then, I left. The Winterdawn pack was eerily silent as I stepped through its gates. The scent of unease and uncertainty lingered in the air, and I relished it. Nathaniel was already waiting, his face lined with worry, yet he still had the courage to meet my eyes. "Your Majesty!" he greeted stiffly. "Truly, I''m d to see you. I hoped to-" I raised my hand, and the idiot fell silent immediately. My sharp crimson gaze swept over him. "I didn''t think you''d miss my visit this much, Nathaniel," I mused, my smirk widening just enough to make a few people take a step back. "You should have seen thising when you let your household rot from the inside." His jaw clenched. "If this is about our Alpha-" 07:30 Sat, 26 Apr S. 0.98% 50 "This is about all of you," I cut him off coldly. "I''m tired of this game, Nathaniel. Your lies. Your betrayals." I observed their bodynguage before finally dering, "Winterdawn is no longer yours. As of today, this pack falls under the rule of the Sundrench Kingdom!" Gasps erupted from the gathered crowd, and Nathaniel paled. "Y-you can''t do this, Your Majesty!" "I can. And I already have," I stated simply. That was when Cami appeared, her eyes wide with fear. She ran straight to us, torn between wanting to kneel on her big belly or whine to her parents. "My husband... where is he? When is heing back?" "I can''t be left alone. I have a baby with him, please. Bring him back!" As she pleaded, her mother lovingly held her body and whispered failedfort. And then, my expression instantly turning ice-cold. "Awaiting trial for his crimes." Chapter 67 Killian''s POV "You are a MONSTER!" "How could you separate a father from his pregnant wife?!" The woman, with unwavering confidence, pointed her finger at me. Everyone in the room gasped sharply. "Is this how you treat your people, oh Great King?!" she shouted. Nathaniel had been trying to pull Cami back and urge her to stop, but she was still determined to hurl her usations. Leonidas had already stepped forward, ready to silence that wretched banshee, but I raised a hand, pressing it against his chest-a signal for him to stand down. "Let her be. A pregnant woman is often overly emotional," I replied with a fake smile. "Understood, Your Majesty." Cami''s sobs tore through my ears like a dull chainsaw scraping against stone. She finally clung to Nathaniel''s robe, her swollen belly rising and falling with every breath as she sobbed and wailed. "DOMINIC DESERVES JUSTICE!" Nathaniel held her tightly, his other hand rubbing her back in a soothing motion. "Calm yourself, Cami. We are in the presence of a King. I beg you," Nathaniel whispered, loud enough to be heard. "Father, what will happen to my husband now?" She stood there, utterly broken, dying inside over the fate of her wretched lover. "I want him back, Father. Please!" I exhaled sharply, the veins in my temple throbbing. I had been far too lenient with this pregnant banshee. "Leonidas." (+50) My Beta, ever the efficient shadow at my side, stepped forward with confidence. He extended a small wooden chest, its deep mahogany hue gleaming under the dim light. The Lucienne family crest was engraved on the lid-a relic of the past, now tainted by these fools. ncing at the three repulsive creatures for a brief moment, I turned to the chest, utched it, and lifted the lid. Inside, meticulously arranged,y various incriminating pieces of evidence-letters, records, and the final nail in Cami''s coffin: the DNA test results. I picked up the scroll from the pile and tossed it toward Nathaniel. "Read it." Nathaniel''s hands trembled as he unrolled the parchment. As his eyes scanned the words, his pupils dted in horror. "T-this... this can''t be!" he stammered. Nathaniel lifted his head, looking between Cami and us. "M-my daughter is a good girl. Someone must have-" Leonidas scoffed. "Are you implying we forged it? Oh, please. Do people like us have time to falsify medical documents?" Nathaniel''s fiery gazended on Cami. Before she could react, a hand had already struck her face. Ja, 20 API OY 6 98% +50 "You wretched liar!" Her mother shricked from the other side of the room, rushing to catch her daughter. "WHAT HAVE YOU DONE TO YOUR OWN CHILD, NATHANIEL?!" Nathaniel growled, gripping the parchment tightly. "Do you know what this is? Read it!" he roared in fury. 4.72 He threw the parchment toward his wife. The moment she picked it up and read it, she was paralyzed in shock. She covered her mouth, her eyes wide with disbelief as she turned to Cami. "C-Cami... is this true? Your baby isn''t Dominic''s child?!" she cried. Clutching one side of her face, Cami shook her head frantically. "N-no, that''s not true, Mother! This child is ours!" she denied. Her mother shoved the parchment in front of her face, disappointment and fury burning in her eyes. "Are you still going to lie about this?!" Blood drained from Cami''s entire body. She turned deathly pale, her eyes widening like saucers. Her lips parted and closed, struggling to weave another web of lies-but failing. "M-Mother... I.....¡± Her mother shook her head, turning her gaze away from her daughter. "I raised you better than this, and yet you dared to lie with a dishonorable man!" she spat. Cami, who had been cowering in fear like a trembling hamster, now bared her fangs like the very devil her parents had bred. "I am your flesh and blood. I only follow the example set by my parents, and now you brand me with insults?!" she hissed. Her mother spun around, her eyes aze with righteous fury. "How dare you twist my words against me?! Is this how you repay your parents, Cami?!" "You are not our child, Cami. You are nothing but a stray!" Nathaniel joined the fray. Cami screamed, recoiling, but before her palm could make contact, I caught her wrist midair. My grip tightened, her bones creaking beneath my fingers as I forced her hand down. "As amusing as it would be to let you beat some sense into your wretched daughter, I have no patience for your theatrics," I said tly. I released her arm and stepped away, brushing off an imaginary speck of dust from my sleeve. "Leonidas, enough. Take these sewer rats back to the kingdom. They will stand trial before me." Leonidas and the guards moved swiftly, the sound of shackles nking as they locked up Nathaniel, his pathetic excuse for a wife, and Cami-who thrashed like a feral cat. "No! No! I won''t go!" "Let me go!" 07:30 Sat, 26 Apr ms. Cami screamed, her face stained with tears and streaked with desperation. "You can''t take me! My baby-" "Your baby belongs to another man," I said coldly, watching as the truth shattered everyst one of her delusions. "And Dominic will die knowing he was nothing but a brainless fool." Nathaniel''s knees buckled, the argument dissolving into a pitiful tragedy of fallen rulers. 98%1 (+50) "Please," he choked out, trying to rush forward and kneel, only to be held back by the chains binding him. "Your Majesty, have mercy. This... this is a pack matter." Tears slipped down his wrinkled face. "You are a king, above such petty disputes." I smirked, tilting my head. "Oh? It seems you still don''t understand anything, Nathaniel." The elders approached cautiously, their expressions grave. One of them, an older man with streaks of silver in his beard, dared to step closer. "Your Majesty" he said respectfully, "we do not question your judgment, but why... why go through all this trouble? Surely, this is a matter that should be settled within the family." My lips curled into a cruel grin. "Because Ruby is my woman." The sudden silence made meugh. How amusing it was to witness their reactions. As if my first performance-when I took their Luna-hadn''t already given them an explicit reason to know that I had imed her. If Ruby were here, I might have kissed her in front of them all and let them watch. "And I will not be merciful to those who steal what is mine," I dered, final and absolute. The only sound that remained was the clinking of chains as Leonidas and the guards dragged the prisoners toward the waiting carriage. Cami fought desperately, screaming and kicking. "I won''t be taken like this! I am Luna! I AM DOMINIC''S WIFE!" I rolled my eyes, sneering. "What a spectacr level of delusion." Her nails wed at the ground, her hysteria reaching unbearable levels. "YOU DAMN TYRANT! YOU THINK YOU CAN CONTROL EVERYTHING?! I HATE YOU! I HATE ALL OF YOU_" The back of my hand struck her cheek with a sharp p. The force sent her crashing to the ground, her body convulsing in sobs. The air grew thick with the weight of my cruelty as the spectators shrank back in tense silence. Leonidas, standing beside me, exhaled through his nose, barely restraining augh. "That might be the first time you''ve ever touched a woman by ident, Your Majesty." 1 flexed my fingers, disgusted. "I feel like burning my hand." Leonidas smirked. "She''s still breathing. Want me to fix that?" I nced at Cami, writhing and whimpering on the ground like a pathetic worm. "No, I want her to stay alive-for now." 07:30 Sat, 26 Apr ms. 98% Nathaniel let out a strangled sob as he watched his daughter be nothing more than a disgraceful heap. I was finally done here. I turned sharply, Leonidas following as we strode toward the waiting portal. "Let''s go. Someone is waiting for me." Leonidas chuckled. "Ruby, I presume?" "There is no other woman worthy of a ce by my side, Leonidas." Chapter 68 Killian''s POV The scent of thend of my dominion surrounds me as I arrived in my kingdom. My mood should have improved upon returning home, but it didn''t. +50 Right at the main gate of the kingdom, the scent of blood was thick in the air, even though not a single drop could be seen. I inhaled deeper. My expression darkened instantly. Leonidas provided his first confirmation. "Your Majesty, it''s likely that one of our own has been injured." I hummed in agreement. "And I have a feeling that the source isn''t from within our territory." I may be a tyrant, but I have never taken pleasure in anyone daring toy a hand on my people. Not even if it was just an ordinary soldier. The fury boiling inside me threatened to spill over, demanding retribution. As I stepped further into my domain, I was met with news that shattered thest shred of my patience. Gamma Jordan was dead. One of my elite officers knelt before me, his leather uniform still stained with dirt and remnants of battle. His voice was hoarse with pain, yet he forced himself to speak, determined to uphold his rank. "Your Majesty, Gamma Jordan fell while protecting our convoy. The attack came from the North. Lucius''s forces ambushed us-they outnumbered us-" He choked on his own blood, and Leonidas immediately rushed to his side along with the others. Some had already brought a healer for him. Then, the soldier continued, "Gamma held them off long enough for the prisoners and the rest of our troops to retreat safely." An overwhelming guilt shed across the soldier''s face. He looked devastated, ashamed that he had been unable to aid Gamma Jordan. He was one of the best and most respected Gammas in the kingdom. His loss broke the spirits of many warriors-even mine. That man was loyal to this kingdom and never once a leech at my heels. My jaw tightened, and both my fists clenched. "And the perpetrators?" I asked, keeping my voice as steady as possible. "T-they vanished into the Northern border, Your Majesty," he stammered. A slow breath escaped my lips, but it did nothing to quell the rage crawling beneath my skin. The Northern Kingdom had finally crossed the line. Lucius had always been a bastard, but now? Now, he had signed his own death warrant. My handnded on the soldier''s shoulder, and I felt his body tense, trembling. "Thank you, soldier. Rest and mourn with the others," Imanded. Without even turning around, I could sense his shocked reaction. I lifted my hand to stop him from uttering meaningless words. "This one is not your fault. Leave." 07:30 Sat, 26 Apr S. 98% (+50) Without dy, hisrades carried him away, followed closely by the healers who struggled to tend to his wounds as they made their way to the medical camp. I turned to Leonidas, who stood beside me, his expression mirroring my displeasure. "Assemble four squads. We march North. I want that bastard to understand what happens when he takes what is mine." Leonidas bowed, a smirk ying on his lips. "I''ve been waiting for this day for a long time, though this loss is unfortunate." "We will have our justice. Let''s move." The Northern Kingdom stood in stark contrast to mine. And shrouded in eternal frost, its sky a dull gray, as if mourning the souls lost here long before today. Stone castles with jagged towers loomed in the distance, their walls weathered by centuries of war and betrayal. When I arrived, there was no grand wee. Only one figure stood at the entrance of the main fortress-the newly appointed right hand of Lucius. The bastard barely had time to blink before Leonidas gave a silentmand, and my men descended upon them like wolves in a den of sheep. Screams tore through the air. Swords shed, ws met ws, and the scent of freshly spilled blood filled my lungs like a drug. I strode leisurely through the chaos, stepping over corpses, the heels of my boots crunching against the icy stone. My soldiers shredded through Lucius''s forces without mercy, leaving a crimson trail in their wake. Elysian''s voice echoed in my head, "Finish them quickly. I want to go home!" "You''re not the only one, brat." "W-what did you just call me?! How dare you!" I easily dismissed Elysian''s curses and tantrums from my mind. I continued my path through the bloody spectacle. And then, finally, he appeared. King Lucius. The man who fancied himself my equal. A grand delusion in its purest form. His golden eyes burned with rage as he descended the stone steps, his fur-lined cloak billowing behind him. "You''ve got some nerve setting your filthy foot in my pce!" "I do." I cut him off smoothly, watching the veins in his neck strain. "You took something that belongs to me, Lucius. And now, I''m here to take something from you." A flicker of understanding passed through the old man''s eyes. Instead of offering a defense, the pathetic little king had the audacity to puff out his chest before me. To add an extra touch of his meaningless arrogance, he shook his head with augh. "If you''ve forgotten, Killian Rudwick, you were the one who started this feud. Should I bash that thick skull of yours?!" he spat, his saliva flying. A brief flicker of pity surfaced before it was swept away by the wind. "Are you seriously still holding a grudge over yourte wife?" Lucius''s nostrils red. "You are her murderer. A life for a life, oh Cruel Tyrant!" "I must have misheard." I tilted my head, crimson eyes glinting with disdain. "Did you just scream ''cruel'' when you are the very embodiment of the word, boy?" Amusement sparked in my chest as realization dawned on him. I am immortal. 015 07.30 Sat, 26 Apr 00 ¾ß Which meant I had outlived his predecessors. A mere child. "Your arrogance will be your downfall, Killian! You act as if you are untouchable!" I smiled, baring my fangs. "And yet, here I stand. Untouched." "Mind your manners before our king, King Killian." 98% 11 I turned toward the unfamiliar voice. A broad-shouldered, muscr man, draped in the same royal cloak as Lucius, stepped forward from his ce. I had barely noticed that another creature here had the audacity to surpass even that idiot king. "You have overstepped your bounds," he dered firmly, locking eyes with me. "You came here andunched an attack. Is that truly the honorable conduct of a king?" A projection of Elysian''s stunned expression shed through my mind. "Where the hell did that fool of a king pick up this jester?" I replied through our connection, "Looks like a new recruit. No matter. Lucius has always been good at brainwashing.¡± "Just get rid of him." Oh, I certainly would. The only issue was that this man, younger than Leonidas, carried the scent of strength and potential. Killing him would be a waste of good resources, wouldn''t it? "Before you speak to someone you''ve just met, at least introduce yourself with proper etiquette," I began, my toneced with just a hint of genuine politeness. "I should inform you that your king is the reason behind my savagery today." I gestured toward Lucius with one hand. "Why don''t you ask him properly what he''s done? I''m sure you''ve already heard bits and pieces by now." "That still does not justify your actions, Your Majesty," he countered effortlessly, as if there weren''t metaphorical daggers at his throat. I sighed. "Lucius, you''ve got yourself a loyal dog." "TO HELL WITH YOU! IF IT''S BLOOD YOU SEEK, THEN I WILL GLADLY OBLIGE!" The tension between us shattered like lightning before a storm. And then, we moved. Lucius lunged first, his ws swiping toward my throat. I twisted, dodging with ease before mming my fist into his ribs. The force sent him skidding backward, his boots scraping against the stone. "Is this all you''ve got? Have your bones grown brittle, Lucius?" "You should''ve stayed in your frozen wastnd," I snarled, dodging another strike beforending a sharp kick against his sternum. "You will never be my equal, Lucius." He roared, his body shifting halfway into his wolf form and his frame expanded, his ws extended. He was fast, but not fast enough. I caught his wrist mid- swing and twisted it back until a sickening crack filled the air. He howled in agony, but I had a far better n for tormenting this wolf-headed swine. Something inside me snapped. My transformation was instantaneous, my body expanding as fur bristled along my skin, my hands curving into massive ws. My vision burned crimson, and my wolf, Elysian, roared within me, thirsting for carnage. I struck with the full force of a storm, my ws tearing through armor, flesh, and bone. Blood sttered across the ground, staining the cold stone a deep, rich red. My fangs sank into his shoulder, ripping through muscle, before I hurled him 07:30 Sat, 26 Apr against the castle doors with a resounding crash. He gasped in shock, his body slumping against the wood, but that did little to quell my unsatisfied rage. "This is the price of your arrogance," I growled, my voice distorted through Elysian''s form. "Rather than using your brain, you resort to brute force? What a pathetic king!" 07,98% Lucius coughed, blood staining his lips. His golden eyes burned with hatred, but beneath that, I saw something else: goddamn fear. Good. "I don''t understand why you''re so damn stubborn, Lucius." The sound of cracking bones was a soul-stirring symphony to my ears. "You should count yourself lucky to have a friend like me-someone who showed you the true face of your dearly departed love," I spat. ¡°But look at what I got in return." I pressed a wed foot against his chest, pinning him down, hoping he''d split in half right then and there. "You will suffer, Lucius. You will feel pain so deep that death itself will seem like mercy." A shadow of soft blue eyes flickered in my mind. Ruby. Damn it. A foreign difort settled beneath my ribs. I nearly lost control to that unfamiliar sensation, forcing myself to regain the iron grip on my tyrannical persona. I had left without notice, but thanks to this bastard, I had forgotten to leave a message with one of my people at the pce. I needed to wrap this up-for the day. Leaning down, I lowered my voice into a venomous whisper. "If you so much as breathe in my direction again, I won''t stop at you. I will burn your entire kingdom to the ground. Your name will be forgotten. Your people will kneel before me, and they will thank me for sparing their pathetic lives. Do you understand?" Lucius let out a ragged breath. "Then kill me." I bared my teeth in a grin. "No. That would be too kind." I stepped back, turning away from his ruined form. The battle around me had died down, my forces victorious, the Northern soldiers lying in heaps of corpses. The stench of death was suffocating¡ªand I relished it. Leonidas approached, wiping blood from his dagger. "What should we do with him?" I nced at Lucius, his body twitching in pain. "One more chance, Leonidas. Leave him." "Are you sure? This isn''t like you," the Beta remarked, clearly surprised. "There are a few considerations. But well, let''s see how this pig acts next time." With one final kick to Lucius''s stomach as a parting gift, I walked past Leonidas, instructing all troops to withdraw. "Let''s go home. This ce is far too cold for my taste," I grumbled, as if our blood-soaked battle had been nothing more than a fleeting dream. Leonidas smirked under his breath. "Ah, that attitude. I almost mistook you for a poor copy of my king," he uttered with dry humor. "Unfortunately for you, Leonidas, I will remain your king until the end of time." 07.30 Sat, 26 Apr 98% +60) We were just about to leave when I suddenly stopped, something crossing my mind. A wild grin stretched across my lips, madness bubbling in my core. Oh, right. I almost forgot. "Wait. Let''s hold off for a bit. We nearly overlooked something." Leonidas tilted his head, one eye narrowing. "And what would that be, Your Majesty?" The gleam in my eyes was brimming with enjoyment. "You''ll see, Leonidas." Chapter 69 Ruby''s POV "How long are we going to stay here?" "Okay, fine. Everything is nice by my standards. But it''s all just walls!" "We''re going to die of boredom, Ruby!" Leia had been whining for a while now. I tried to ignore her. Sadly, unsessfully. Technically, every emotion your wolf feels is a reflection of your own, and that included this unbearable sense of confinement, like being trapped inside a box. "Now you''re ignoring me. You''re so mean, Ruby," Leia whined like a child. "I''m sorry, Leia. I share the same frustration as you. But-" "Then why don''t we just leave?¡± My frown deepened. I blinked, trying to process my wolf''s words. "You mean...?" "Get some fresh air, Ruby!" I sighed. "I don''t think that''s a good idea, Leia." "Listen, Ruby Lucienne. We are not prisoners here, and I don''t recall that king ordering us to be locked in this room forever!" she emphasized every word. "True. This is just my small way of showing gratitude since he''s been kind to us, Leia," I replied softly. 450 Leia scoffed, "Oh,e on. You sound like the old Ruby I used to hear when you were with Dominic. Stop acting like that!" Her words hit me straight to my core. I exhaled, rubbing my face. Old habits died hard. Back then, I had been so intoxicated by love that I reshaped myself into the perfect, obedient woman-just to hold onto Dominic''s affection and attention. And in doing so, I lost who I was. "Dominic is Dominic. Killian... well, he''s a tyrant who got caught on your hook." My eyes widened, a faint warmth creeping up my cheeks. "W-wait. What do you mean ''my hook"?" Through our connection, I could practically see Leia rolling her eyes. "Forget it. Now, get out of this ce and enjoy the freedom of life!" Leia huffed in frustration. My headache worsened. I massaged my temples, ncing around the room. Finally, my gaze settled on myself. "Maybe it wouldn''t hurt," I murmured. In the end, I gave in to Leia''s request. My wolf was overjoyed. Half of her boredom was instantly reced by excitement when I told her we''d be going on a little adventure. "You''re the best!" she cheered. I chuckled. "Thanks for thepliment, annoying Leia." The Sundrench Kingdom was nothing like the rumors had imed. Sat, 20 Apr 98% (+50) When I first gathered the courage to step outside my safest ce here, I expected something dark and unpleasant where a reflection of its ruthless king. But what I found was a kingdom straight out of one of Martha''s old fairytales, a breathtaking realm where towering ivory stone spires kissed the sky, their golden filigree gleaming under the sunlight. Its streets were paved with smooth cobblestones, lined with vast gardens bursting with flowers in every imaginable color. Soft music drifted from afar, the melody floating through the air as I walked. It had taken me two whole days of staying here to finally notice all of this. I owed a smallck of regret to Leia''s persistence. If not for her, I would have only visited three ces-the throne room, the banquet hall, and the bedroom I currently upied. That alone wouldn''t have given me the full picture of what this kingdom truly was. "Beautiful..." Despite my admiration, my thoughts were restless. I hadn''t seen Killian since the night before. I knew better than to expect any special attention from him. He was a king, and his world was nothing like mine. But I''couldn''t help the dull ache that settled in my chest. At the very least, it lessened as my feet carried me through this little exploration. I bit the inside of my cheek. The temptation to shift into my wolf form was strong. But I had no idea where I was even going; I just wanted to see more. The castle was massive, with endless hallways and staircases twisting in all directions. Every time I thought I had reached the same hall, I realized I had taken a wrong turn. As embarrassing as it was to admit... I waspletely lost! A gentle voice interrupted my confusion. "Luna Ruby? Are you lost?" I turned to see Head Maid Beatrice, her kind, aged eyes assessing me for a moment as she stood with a small group of servants. A quiet chuckle escaped her lips as I fumbled for a response. I could already imagine my face turning as red as tomato. How embarrassing! "Um, I may have taken a few wrong turns," I admitted sheepishly. "No need to worry," she said with an amused smile. "This castle is abyrinth for neers. If you''d like, I can guide you." "Really?!" Her wrinkles became a bit more pronounced as she smiled. "Yes, Lady Ruby. It would be an honor to apany the King''s guest," she replied warmly. Suddenly, a small pang twisted in my stomach. For a fleeting moment, I saw a tiny piece of Martha in Beatrice. This wasn''t the first time I''d thought of it. It hurt to be reminded of the most important parts of the people you love. "I appreciate your kindness, Head Maid," I responded, a small curve forming on my lips. The elderly woman epted my gratitude with a polite bow. She stepped beside me, waiting for permission, and together we walked through the many hallways as she exined different sections of the castle. The group of servants from earlier had returned to their respective duties. I was relieved. The Head Maid seemed to understand that too many people made me ufortable. I wasn''t used to such excessive service. My blue eyes wandered over the new sights. There was a grand ballroom, sunlit corridors, and even an observatory overlooking the vastnds of the Sundrench Kingdom. But my favorite was the library-a towering structure of intricately carved oak, its shelves filled with ancient texts and long-forgotten histories. 07:30 Sat, 26 Apr S. 98%1 "His Majesty has maintained this collection for centuries, Beatrice said as I marveled at its sheer size. "He values knowledge as much as power." That piqued my curiosity. The idea of putting Killian Rudwick, and knowledge in the same sentence felt more terrifying than unfitting. There was no way he had be this formidable without an extraordinary mind. A hunger for knowledge refined the rough edges of his cunning and skill. "Forgive me if this is too forward, but... what can you tell me about this kingdom''s history?" I asked. Beatrice gave me a knowing smile, as if she had expected the question. "The Sundrench Kingdom has stood for over a thousand years, ruled by the Rudwick bloodline. But it was Killian who shaped it into what it is today. Before him, thisnd was in chaos, constantly at war..." Our pace slowed. I listened intently. "He took the throne by force, eliminating all who opposed him, but since then, the kingdom has flourished. Under his rule, there is peace-but only because no one dares to challenge him," she added, her gaze distant. A realization struck me. Killian was immortal. Clearly, this head maid''s lifespan didn''tpare to his. "Everyone is intrigued by the immortality the King of this prosperous kingdom has obtained," I said carefully, stepping onto dangerous ground. Luckily, Beatrice did not react negatively. "It is an open secret. Those who understand magic must have already found clues." I blinked slowly. "I am not one of those people. So, what is it?" "You have seen our King''s crimson eyes, haven''t you, Lady?" she countered with a question of her own. I nodded in response. For a moment, she offered a soft smile and gazed toward the window. "That is the result of using dark magic and the immortality he gained through its power," Beatrice exined inly. "What? Killian- I mean, King Killian is capable of wielding dark magic? I thought..." I trailed off, still processing the revtion. "Our King''s parents were renowned sorcerers in their time. Because of that, he was born with two different magical cores," she interrupted gently, turning back to look at me. ¡°That is why our King is so powerful. He is the perfect hybrid-blooded Lycan. I absorbed every word she said. Killian had never spoken much about himself, and even now, he remained an enigma. Looking back, I realized I knew almost nothing about the man. Unlike him. He could read me like an open book, and to be honest, that irritated me more than anything else. "Is there anything else you''d like to ask?" I jolted out of my thoughts at the sound of Beatrice''s voice. I wanted to ask more about him-to understand him in a way I never had before. But instead, I asked something else. "Perhaps a slightly personal question. Would that be alright?" I hesitated. "Any question from you, Lady Ruby, I will do my best to answer," she responded with impable politeness. ¦Í¦Á¦É, ¦Å¦Í ¦Ì 98% I nodded in gratitude. "Do you enjoy working and living in this kingdom? Beatrice looked momentarily surprised, as if she hadn''t expected the sensitive question. But I genuinely wanted to know, even if just a little. And then she answered, her tone holding pure sincerity. "I do, my Lady." My checks puffed slightly, like rising dough. That meant Killian treated his workers well. A stark contrast to Dominic. And he was nothing more than an ordinary Alpha. ¡°Then I''m d to hear that," I said with a small smile. We continued walking. And yet the itch of curiosity refused to fade, especially with Leia constantly urging me to dig for more information about the tyrant. However, before I could, a suddenmotion erupted from the main hall. Beatrice and I exchanged nces before quickly moving toward the source of the noise. My heart pounded as we reached the entrance, and then-my gaze locked onto the very person who had been making me restless all morning. Killian stood in the center of it all, his clothes slightly torn and drenched in blood. His crimson eyes burned with uncontroble rage, his fists clenched. The air around him was suffocating, thick with the scent of death. The guards and servants had already stepped back, too afraid to approach. My breath hitched. My middle finger for the fear. "Killian!" Without thinking, I rushed forward, ignoring the stunned looks from everyone around us. He lifted his head, his sharp gaze snapping to mine. And in an instant, the tension in his body loosened. He exhaled sharply, as if releasing something he had been holding in for far too long. "You''re back," I whispered, reaching for him. My fingers brushed against his arm- his body still thrumming with restrained violence. "I am," he rasped. I didn''t care that he was covered in blood. I didn''t care about all the eyes watching us. The only thing that mattered was that this crazy tyrant was here. That he had "You''re hurt," I gasped, frantically checking his shoulder for wounds. "It''s not my blood," he said darkly. I made a face. ¡°Who cares if it''s yours or not? There must be some injuries-* "Did you just scold me?" "Eh?" I swallowed hard, suddenly realizing: ''yes, I had just scolded him. great I shook my head and forced myself to summon the bravest attitude I''d ever had in my life. "Yes. And I''ll apologize for it properlyter." 07:31 Sat, 26 Apr m I gently ced my palm against his cheek. "Come with me." <98%1 For a moment, he said nothing. Then, to my surprise, he obeyed. His hand closed over mine. Strong and possessive. Together, we left the hall, the whispers of servants and guards fading into the background. Well, there was a giant wolf to tend to today. Revenge could wait. Chapter 70 Ruby''s POV The room was bathed in the glow of a luxurious crystal chandelier. The scent of medicinal herbs, mixed with faint traces of blood, filled the air as I pressed my palm against Killian''s exposed skin. My magic was weak, far from the power of a trained healer, but Nora had taught me enough to at least tend to non-fatal wounds. I took a slow breath, focusing on the energy flowing from my hand, allowing its warmth to seep into his bruised flesh. Killian sat still, his crimson eyes glowing as he stared at me with an unreadable expression. His broad chest rose and fell in a steady rhythm, but I could feel the slight tension in his body beneath my touch. I wondered why. He was usually the most vocal when it came to ''touch''. "Maybe the man has finally learned the word ''shame''," Leia''s sharp voice intruded. I held back a frown. "Don''t make a fuss in my head. I need to concentrate!" "Yeah, yeah, oh Great Healer." Leia disappeared with her usual sarcasm. I sighed in relief. Finally, no more constant criticism from her. "Where did you learn this?" I looked up immediately as the man suddenly spoke. "My friend taught me," I answered, focusing on his shoulder, where the deep wound was slowly beginning to close. "I''m sorry if this isn''t as good as the kingdom''s great healers. I don''t have a strong magic core." "This is more than eptable," he said. I felt the tips of my ears grow warm. "Thank you..." "So, tell me. Why was your friend so kind as to teach you magic?" I fell silent for a moment, searching for the right words to begin the story. It wasn''t a particrly proud tale, but I always loved praising my friend, Nora. She was incredibly kind, even if her mouth was utterly insufferable. "I was a reckless little girl back in the day," I began, diving into those fond old memories. "She was always annoyed whenever I got hurt. She called me a trouble ma because I kept tripping over things or getting myself into messes." Ignoring the burning embarrassment, I continued, "She got tired of patching me up, so she taught me how to do it myself." "Should I start imagining things?" I red at him, catching that teasing tone that was anything but amusing. "Don''t even think about it, Your Highness," I grumbled, continuing to treat him while also wiping away the blood. "Then keep telling your story." I steeled myself against the urge to smack that handsome face with a pillow. "Learning magic wasn''t easy at all. And I ended up in the hospital repeatedly." My expression soured at the sudden recollection of those brutal days. ¡°Still, I managed to master a few somewhat useful things." Nora was truly the best teacher. She never gave up on me until I got it right. 07:31 Sat, 26 Apr S. "She sounds amazing. What''s your friend''s name?¡± I smiled, pleased that someone was praising her. "Nora Lec." Killian let out a breath that almost sounded amused. "Seriously? That''s your friend?" "Yes. Is there something wrong with that?" He shook his head, and that small chuckle of his only piqued my curiosity. "Of course, you wouldn''t be associated with just anyone. The famous Grand Sorceress herself." My brain processed the words, and then I burst outughing. "There it is. I take it you know her?" Killian''s lips curved into a faint smirk. ¡°She has quite the reputation. Bold, talented, and utterly insufferable." 98% (+50) "That sounds about right," I agreed, grinning as I continued my work. "She''s one of the best tower mages on the continent. And also one of the worst at keeping secrets." "Perfect for gossip," Killian added effortlessly. I nodded quickly in agreement. "You''re absolutely right about that. But I''m curious. How do you know her, Killian? I mean, beyond her incredible reputation as a sorceress?" "This kingdom has business rtions with the tower mages." Killian nced at my hand, still glowing with magic. "Besides that, we have a good rapport. I admire them, if that''s the highestpliment I can give, for their astonishing magic." What a stark contrast. A so-called tyrant could be free of prejudice and discrimination, yet the people I knew couldn''t do the same. "It''s nice to see someone who actually respects mages. It always upsets me when Nora gets insulted just because she''s a witch" I admitted gloomily. "They''re just jealous of someone soaring above the clouds." The glow of my magic faded as I checked the treated wound. Killian continued, "Besides, it would be hypocritical of me to be prejudiced when my mother was a mage." My hands suddenly froze. What Killian had just said was exactly the same as Beatrice''s answer. That confirmed it-it was true. "Ruby?" His voice snapped me out of my thoughts. I hurried to smile, albeit awkwardly, and rambled on about admiring sorcerers, trying to mask my sudden panic. I was terrified that he''d realize I had been secretly trying to verify his personal information through the pce servants. "I''m sure she said something about me, that perveted woman." He sneered, sounding mildly irritated. I doubted, unsure whether to be honest or not, but I was far from the best liar on this continent. In the end, I nodded and chuckled softly. "She called you ''a bloodthirsty, oversized wolf with an ego too big for any throne."" Killian''s lips curled into a razor-sharp grin. "She''s not wrong." Thest wound closed, leaving only a faint scar behind. I let out a breath and leaned back. ¡°Finally done. You''re all patched up. Now you just need to get cleaned¨D" 07.31 Sal, 20 API "Yeah, alright. I understand, littledy." Killian suddenly stood up, flicking my forehead with two fingers, making me yelp in pain. This evil tyrant! "Come with me." I blinked, my mouth suddenly dry. "Excuse me?" "You''re the one always fussing over me. Stay here until the bath is ready," he said nonchntly. Before I could protest, Killian grabbed my wrist and led me toward the bathhouse. The room was grand-farrger than I had expected. A massive pool of crystal- clear, steaming water sat at its center, surrounded by marble pirs and intricate carvings of wolves and moon phases stretching along the walls. The scent ofvender and sandalwood filled the air. I barely had time to admire the ce before the sound of rustling fabric caught my ear. I turned just in time to catch a glimpse of Killian''s shirt slipping off his broad shoulders, revealing battle-worn muscles, firm and scarred. Heat crept up my neck, and I quickly spun around. "Shy, little Luna?" Killian teased. I swallowed hard. "I-It''s called having manners!" Killian only chuckled. "Haven''t you already gotten used to seeing this?" I gritted my teeth in silence. So much for the cold, domineering man from before. In his ce stood a wild beast and a shameless flirt. A soft ripples echoed behind me, signaling that he had entered the water. And then, thatmanding voice rang out "Get in." My heart pounded. I mentally chanted every calming spell I knew, while Leia scoffed, mocking me for acting like some innocent maiden-especially when I had already been surrounded by two naked men before. Heat burned fiercely across my face. "Leia, I swear, stay quiet this time unless you want trouble!" My wolf only grew more amused. "Oh dear, just look at that adorable blush." "Leia!" A sudden ssh of water hit my face, making me jolt back. I immediately searched for the culprit and shot a re in his direction. "Is that how you invite someone, Your Highness?" Killian looked unimpressed. ¡°That''s twice now you''ve used that outdated title. Get in, or I''ll drag you in myself." I exhaled sharply, choosing not to argue. Instead, I tied my long hair into a messy bun before stepping forward and slipping into the bath. The warmth enveloped me instantly, easing a tension I hadn''t even realized I was carrying. Killian leaned against the edge of the bath, his gaze fixed on me like a predator observing its prey. "You''re awfully quiet," he remarked, tilting his head slightly. "What''s wrong?" I bit my lip before finally asking, "Why were youteing home?" 07:31 Sat, 26 Apr m S? Killian''s expression darkened slightly, a chilling cold creeping back into those blood-red eyes. "It''s not a pleasant story." 398% +50) "If you don''t mind, I''d still like to hear it. Can you tell me?" I quickly added, "Since your original n was to visit my pack." Killian''s gaze locked onto mine, as if weighing whether he should tell me the truth. Then, a smirk curved on his lips. "A kiss first, as an opening story." I rolled my eyes, even as a blush crept up my face. Just as I was about to protest to the king, he pulled me closer, hisrge hands resting firmly on my waist. His breath was warm against my lips as he murmured, "You insist on knowing everything, don''t you?" And then he kissed me. The kiss was demanding, filled with raw hunger. It stole the air from my lungs. My fingers dug into his bare shoulders as his lips moved against mine, deepening the kiss until I felt dizzy-in the best way possible. Killian always felt like this. The intoxicating scent of musk, the heat and strength, and something darker- something that made me want to be an eternal me that never burned out for him. When he finally pulled away, he rested his forehead against mine, his voice rougher and deeper than usual. "Was that enough for the price?" I panted. Instead of answering, his teeth tugged at my lower lip, making me whimper before he kissed me again-hotter, fiercer. Our bodies pressed together like bird lovers lost in newfound passion. My head tilted back, my lips parting in pure delight as he expertly found the sensitive spot on my neck. "I suppose this payment will do, little Luna." Chapter 71 Killian''s POV Ruby''s taste still lingered on my tongue, intoxicating and unbearably sweet. It wasn''t enough. Never. My hands rested on her waist, feeling the warmth of her skin beneath my fingers. The bathwater around us rippled softly, while her voice was drowned out by the unsteady rhythm of her breath. I wanted to devour her, to drown in her, to mark her in a way no one else could erase. But she had made a demand of me-a question I would have rather ignored in favor of the far more pleasurable distraction in my arms. Honestly, who cared about that wolf-headed swine? And yet, this woman had a way of pulling me into her world, making me respond to her desires even when I had no intention of doing so. She was looking at me now, waiting, her ocean-blue eyes too wide, too trusting. Innocent in a way that made my throat tighten. That feeling came again. It wasn''t about the water. It was something much deeper-something only this woman possessed. "Killian, I asked yo. Please, answer it." I sighed. I could hear the pout in her voice, no matter how well she masked it beneath that gentleness. Her lips pushed forward slightly. "I already agreed to pay, you know." The topic was less than pleasant. The blood on my hands wasn''t mine, but exining the details of my fight with Lucius would only sour the mood. I wanted Ruby to stay in my grasp, didn''t want her to look at me with the same horror others did when they saw the monster I truly was. "Hm, you''re actually considering someone else''s feelings now. Surprising." Again. Elysian. "Just admit how important she is to you." I could almost picture Elysian wrestling within my mind right now, his thick fur ruffled in frustration. I''ve started liking her too! That damn she-wolf is always humming songs to me. I''m losing my mind in here!" I was utterly stunned. "Wait-are you serious?" "Yes, you idiot king! But that can wait. Just take care of our woman first!" In an instant, Elysian vanished, leaving me with a thousand unanswered questions. Meanwhile, in front of me, Ruby was already annoyed. I had no way to dodge this, and if anyone could make me surrender, it was this damn woman. "If I tell you exclusively, what do I get in return?" I rumbled, my lips brushing against the shell of her ear. A shiver ran through her, and I smirked at her reaction. "Everything has a price." Ruby frowned, pushing lightly against my chest, though it was a futile attempt against my grip. "But I already made my payment earlier!" she protested. I shook my head, tucking a damp strand of hair behind her ear. "I thought you knew me better than that." "Y-you tricked me?! Killian!" Laughter rumbled through the bathhouse. That shade of red suited Ruby perfectly. I was thoroughly entertained; she was far too easy to deceive, like a rabbit walking straight into a lion''s trap. } 1 98% (+50) "Not exactly. I did intend to share the opening part of the story, as per the price of that kiss,¡± I paused, watching the crease of irritation deepen on her forehead. "But of course, there''s an extra charge if you want the full story." Ruby''s expression suddenly went nk.. "You know, it''s been a long time since someone pissed me off this much," she admitted. I raised an eyebrow. "Oh? Is that apliment?" "NOT AT ALL! YOU BASTARD!" I chuckled, tilting my head to press a kiss against the base of her throat. "I won''t deny it." In the end, she stopped being angry. Her hands hesitantly rested against my skin, pure desperation seeping through her touch as she tried to coax an answer out of me. "Stop being cruel to me this time. There''s no harm in telling me, is there?" I pulled back slightly, watching uncertainty flicker across her face. ¡°You really want to hear about Lucius?" I murmured, my fingers tracing nonexistent patterns along her bare back. "Even knowing the details... isn''t pleasant?" "So it is about the King of the Northern Kingdom?" She nodded immediately, determination settling in her expression. "I want to know." "Even if it''s boring?" She sshed water at me. "I doubt anything involving important people like you all could ever be boring. So just spill it." Foolish girl. Sweet Luna. My little wolf. "Alright. If you fall asleep listening to it, that''s on you." "As if I would," she muttered, annoyed. "It''s a simple story. I actually arrived on time and got here. And yeah, bastard that I am, I got news," I started in a sour tone. "My loyal Gamma is dead." My grip on her tightened slightly-a subconscious response to my own fury as the memory resurfaced. "Of course, that wolf-headed swine did more than just that. Lucius is an arrogant man. He thought he couldy his hands on what''s mine and walk unscathed." away Her breath hitched slightly, her eyes widening like an owl''s as the story took a darker turn. She already had an idea of what wasing next. I continued, "He ambushed my men. Killed one of my most loyal soldiers. He thought I wouldn''t retaliate." I scoffed, my voice dripping with lethal amusement. "I made sure he regretted it." "I didn''t hear anything about you. Not even a whisper of chaos in your ranks." She lowered her gaze, looking guilty. "The kingdom was so quiet that I thought everything was fine." "Nothing is wrong here." Unconsciously, my tone softened, apanied by an absentminded caress. "I always make sure not to bring trivial problems into the pce. There are many members who prefer peace-myself included." "I understand. It''s just that... you know. It doesn''t feel right to stay silent while others are getting hurt," she murmured softly. I dismissed her veiled apology. "The healers and the others were already in ce, just beg you put to yo Ruby''s fingers curled around my arm. "But you got hurt too, in the end," she said sadly, her eyes tracing the beading wounds on my doodter wh des rest only a little," "Yeah, turns out that old bastard''s strength isn''t as rusty as I thought I assured her. "And Lucas is a baking bear the now. Besides, I''m more than capable of handling him" She sighed and mumbled something that sounded like worry before resting her head against my souther "You always say that. You act like your life doesn''t matter? I fell silent, startled by the worry in her voice. Was that... for me? I still couldn''t quite believe Ruby''s concern-or any form of care she showed toward me. lore, the wads the only woman bold enough to express such things, but with them, it was always empty. And I despised it. Most of what Rolery worked ext was insignificant. Like this situation. The difference was, I didn''t hate iting from her. I had never truly considered that someone might care whether I lived or died, Genuinely care. I was eternal, forced nature¡ªsomething to be feared, not fretted over, And yet, here she was, scolding me as if I were a reckless child. As far as I remembered, that title wited her much better On the other hand, a part of me found that I wanted her to keep doing it. Only for her king. Slowly, I tilted her chin upward, forcing her to meet my gaze. "Are you really worrying over a tyrant, little Luna?" She huffed, her cheeks darkening. "Of course I''m worried. You can''t just throw yourself into danger and expect me to- I silenced her with a kiss. A deep, lingering kiss that stole whatever breath she had left to argue with me. She melted against me, her fingers digging into my shoulders, nails pressing in just enough to leave a sting. Mine. My tongue slipped past the seam of her lips, iming every inch of her mouth. She tasted of sweet wine and something purely her. I could have spent hours savoring her like this, but the need to hear more of those little gasping sounds she made spurred me on. I lifted her slightly, pressing her back against the edge of the marble bath. Water rippled around us, though I barely noticed. My lips traced the curve of her jaw, gliding down the slope of her neck. I bit down gently, just enough to make her whimper. "Killian," she whispered, her hands clutching at me. "Yes, little wolf?" I murmured against her skin. She let out a shaky breath. "You''re distracting me." I smirked. "Good, then." She shuddered as I trailed lower, my hands mapping every inch of her. "Killian, we-" 00% (+50) "We what?" I teased, pulling back just enough to meet those alluring ocean-blue eyes I adored. "We''re having a conversation, aren''t we?" Ruby''s cheeks were flushed now, and I thoroughly enjoyed the sight. "Somehow, I feel the opposite." I raised an eyebrow. "You said our situation was inconvenient. And yet, here you are, choosing to sit in your king''sp." She red at me for half a second before finally giving in, wrapping her arms around my neck. "You''re a king who doesn''t take criticism well from his people." "And unfortunately, you''re one of the few subjects who epts that without question," I shot back with a victorious smirk. She huffed but made no move to continue our little argument. Satisfied, I kissed her again, savoring her taste, the way she responded to my touch. It was intoxicating. Addictive. Just hours ago, I had been drenched in blood, soaked in war and violence. But now, with her in my arms, all of it faded into the background. Lucius, the chaos, the great war looming in the future-none of it mattered when I was holding her like this. I pulled back just enough to rest my forehead against hers. "I didn''t mean to upset you. You''re too paranoid, little wolf." She exhaled softly,. "Because you''re an arrogant king who acts like everything is so simple, Killian." I chuckled, pressing another kiss to her lips. "Hm, maybe you''re right." We stayed like that for a while, wrapped in each other''s warmth. I thought it was enough but it wasn''t. My arousal soared with her on myp. Naked and so close to my dick. It seemed like she felt the same way. Her whole skin was flushed like a cherry on top of ice cream and my teeth were itching to taste it. It doesn''t take long for my hand to move to her perfect bulging ass, and instinctively it lifts. Ruby bites her lip and her expression is god. She was like the number one sexy bitch on earth. "I don''t remember any groping in the bath." As a first reaction, I squeezed and smacked that butt. She made the typical shocked noise of someone wanting to get fucked by a big cock. "I also don''t remember that I allowed you to grind your pussy into my thighs, darling." She bit her lip. "It''s because of your cock, my king." I burst outughing. Ah, now my woman has the nerve to talk dirty. A long time ago, when we first started this game. Ruby didn''t dare to say anything dirty or rough. This was a good change because I really liked the idea of corrupting someone''s sacred morals. 07:31 Sat, 26 Apr S. "Then babe, do you want to suck on your toy?" I asked as I sank my thumb in her warm mouth. "R-really?" "Yes, my pet. You can suck on it and I might let you ride me." 98% 50 I was already sitting on the steps of the bathhouse, while my feet were still submerged in the water. Ruby was kneeling between my legs, staring with the sparkle of great need and the tips of her ears flushed adorably. One of my hands was on her chin, my eyes shing wildly. "Do it nicely. Do you understand, pet?" Mt precious pet nodded submissively. "Yes, Master." Chapter 72 Killian''s POV "Look at yourself. So damn pretty." Saliva dripped from her mouth. My fingers were buried in her hair, guiding the lips of the sinful little wolf. Oh, how delicious her lips wrapped around me, her plump, fully ripe lips covering her teeth as she devoured me, consuming me. "An innocent doll that has been corrupted by its owner." She moaned, her eyes closed as I pressed her head deeper until the tip of my cock touched the back of her throat. I groaned, her suction getting stronger and faster. Her cheeks became gaunt as my shaft grew bigger and harder in her mouth. "Yeah, eat my cock, baby." The lewd sounds from her mouth sent shivers of arousal along my skin. I could see the juices from her pussy starting to drip as she experienced something simr. She wanted to be filled right away. But knew that sucking on her favorite toy was also her favorite thing to do. It didn''t take long for me to reach the edge of heaven. I grabbed her head, and I held on as my cum exploded in her mouth. "Fuck, your mouth is so goddamned talented. Take my cum and swallow it," I instructed. Tears flowed from the corners of her eyes. The thick white liquid dripped from her mouth which was still locked by my fat cock. I moved my hips slowly to feel the warmth of her mouth before pulling it out. Ruby tried to swallow all the liquid even though she ended up choking. "S-sorry... I can''t eat it all," she sobbed. My expression softened. If it was anyone else I''d probably chain them to a bed for two days. Imagining Ruby like that didn''t seem right. She''s an obedient pet when ites to bed and has never made me feel resentful forck of intimacy. Beyond that, she wasn''t a bitch who relied solely on her body. I rubbed the corner of her lips where the liquid dripped. "It''s okay, pet. You''ve been a good girl." Ruby whined, switching to rubbing her face against my thigh. She was very happy whenever she wasplimented. "Where''s my present?" she blinked innocently. I smiled slightly. "Ah, don''t worry. I won''t forget it." "But what''s the present? Except for the main part!" A pout graced her face as I guided her by the hand to stand up and then I whispered in her ear, "I''m going to eat your pussy. What do you think?" "Y-yes! I like it!" "Then get into position, pet." What an obedient girl. Ruby immediately assumed the most perfect position at the moment. Her long legs came closer while I sat with my feet still in the water, leaning back. She didn''t say a word other than a small whimper that she was about to be pampered by her master. Ruby stepped gracefully and straddled me, her thighs and pussy were in my line of sight and she leaned over to lift my chin so I could see her face. Her gaze was one of burning lust and she spread her feet wider and let go of my face only to cup the back of my head and attempt to pull me into her pussy. "Master- I took a small bite of her plump, round curves. "It''s okay. I''m letting you be a naughty slut today." She wiggled her ass like a lewd marite and clear droplets fell. How wet and aroused she was for her master. "Please, master. Eat my pussy," she begged breakingly. "Patience, pet. I taught you better than that." (+50) My oratorical tone made her tremble a little and she immediately chanted an apology. I pped her ass twice as a lesson for her attitude and she immediately corrected her attitude. "Repeat the password correctly..." Ruby pointed two fingers back while still looking at me with her face flushed with desire. She poked her wet pussy and patted it making a sound that instantly sent pulses to my cock again. "I''m the master''s lovely pet. Look at my slobbering pussy." She cried because I wouldn''t touch her. "I want to be eaten, sucked, and finger-fucked by master." "I promise to give anything to my master so that I can get this naughty gift. Please-" A faint smirk formed on my lips. "Hm, interesting offer. How about you naked in the study with your pretty mouth covered in my cock and your hole filled whenever I need a cum dump?" She moaned, trembling as my dirty words took effect on her. "Are you up to it?" "Y-yeah, please! I''m willing to do it even in front of all your colleagues!" It was a good idea, but unfortunately the thought of everyone looking at Ruby Lucienne''s beautiful form really made me hate it. So, no. "Granted." Suddenly Ruby let out a happy whimper that her master was finally willing to give her a naughty gift. She brought her pussy closer and I quickly took it. I inhaled the delicious scent of her body for a moment. She is everything I''ve always imagined and tasted; salt-sweet, musky, hot and fragrant as hell. I buried my nose between her lips, drenching my face with her sweet juices. The moan that escaped her throat told me that she wanted more, wanted me to suck on her straining clit so badly. Her fingers tangled in my hair as she pulled me deeper, pulsing into my mouth. I opened her pussy wider with my tongue and found the sensitive bulge where I feasted and devoured. "Ouhh... master!-" My pet''s head looked up, her hands squeezing her breasts. "Ahh, ughh... please eat it all!" Her moans grew louder and I lifted one arm around her thighs and grabbed her ass as I devoured her. Ruby bends lower, spreading her body for me and I see her point, sliding two fingers up into her weing hole from behind. She was wet, extremely moist and I pushed my fingers inside. Ruby groans this time and grips tighter, pushing against me, screaming and 07:31 Sat, 26 Apr m S. too cleverly I quickly wrap my arms around her front to give her three fingers a proper fuck. Ruby shifted to amodate me and I began to push three thick fingers with my knuckles deep into her heated pussy. Lick after lick, her fever increased and before I knew it, Ruby was convulsing and throbbing rhythmically around my fingers and my entire hand was covered in her beautiful, creamy semen. "MASTER KILLIAN!" Ruby''s body was convulsing, her mouth opening endlessly to voice her pleasure. And then, after her twitching subsided, she released me and looked into my eyes with a wide smile. "Thank you, master." I tasted her essence on my tongue and smiled. "Come here." Obediently, she returned to her original position where she was kneeling between my thighs. I offered my fingers and let her lick them clean. I restrained myself from mming her into the water and thrusting my cock into her this time. God, she was so unbelievably beautiful once all that stoicism was gone. "That''s enough." I straightened her slightly messy hair and she enjoyed the little touch. Her smile brightened, and I couldn''t resist giving her a kiss. "Still up for the main course, pet?" A pair of blue eyes twinkled. "Of course, Master. Shall we start now?" Chapter 73 Ruby''s POV +50 When my eyes opened, I knew something had changed. My body was wrapped in soft sheets, and a faint scent ofvender lingered in the air. I blinked a few times, adjusting to the dim light in my room. A deep warmth spread through my chest as memories of that night resurfaced. Killian''s touch, his lips, the possessive way he held me in the water-and all of that. My face burned at the thought, and I groaned, pressing my palms against my cheeks as if I could erase the heat. Did he carry me back here? I sat up, suddenly realizing that my clothes had been changed. Someone had dressed me, though I had no memory of it. The loose silk nightgown draped over my body barely concealed the lingering tingles from Killian''s touch. I swallowed hard, torn between embarrassment and something deeper: a longing. But soon, my mood shifted as I remembered that we hadn''t yed for too long. I sighed. At least it had been incredible. Shaking my head, I forced myself to focus. My stomach growled, reminding me of how hungry I was. A tray of food sat on the bedside table, likely left by the pce staff. I bit into the warm bread and fruit, letting the vors awaken my senses. The te was empty in no time. Fortunately, I was alone. It would have been a blow to my dignity if anyone had seen me eating like a starving beggar who hadn''t had a meal in a week. With my stomach full and my body warm enough to rest again, sleep still refused toe. "Come on, eyes. It''s still one in the morning," I muttered. But my eyes remained wide open. I turned over and buried my face into the pillow, groaning in frustration. I probably wouldn''t be able to sleep again until morning. "So annoying." Letting out a sigh, I got out of bed and draped a shawl over my shoulders. I needed to move. Maybe then, sleep would finallye to me. Besides, it was also a way to escape Killian''s constant presence in my mind. The longer he lingered in my thoughts, the more restless I became though Leia would no doubt make some sarcastic joke about it. Quietly, I pushed open the door and stepped into the dimly lit corridors of the pce. It was eerily silent. This was even more unsettling than the manor at The Winterdawn Pack when the night fall. Truly. The corridors stretched endlessly, bathed in the eerie glow of torches lining the walls. This pce was even bigger than I had realized, and wandering through it at night made me feel like a ghost drifting through a forgotten kingdom. I traced my fingers along the smooth stone walls, my footsteps echoing softly against the polished marble floors. I had no real destination in mind, just a simple desire to walk away from my restless thoughts-until I turned a corner and nearly collided with a solid figure. "Luna?" I looked up to find Beta Leonidas standing before me, his sharp golden eye watching me with curiosity. He was still dressed as usual, though the top buttons of his shirt were undone, as if he had been preparing to retire for the night. "Leonidas," I exhaled, pressing a hand to my chest. "You startled me." He smirked. "Apologies. But what are you doing wandering the halls at this hour?" I shifted ufortably. Telling the kingdom''s Beta that I couldn''t sleep because I kept thinking about his King seemed... 97%! inappropriate. "I just needed some fresh air," I decided, offering him a small smile. "And maybe somepany." +50) Leonidas raised an eyebrow but nodded, stepping aside and motioning for me to walk with him. "Then allow me to be your escort, Luna." "Are you serious?" He tilted his head, wearing that unsettlingly innocent mask. It didn''t suit you at all, big brat.. "Do you doubt my good intentions?" he countered. I rolled my eyes, clutching my shawl tighter. "You might have some ideas I won''t like." "Ah, I wouldn''t dare. Especially now that my King has imed you, Luna." Instantly, I felt a burning sensation at the tips of my ears. My frown deepened. I wanted to refuse him. What worried me was that this could turn into a scandal. I didn''t know everyone who lived here or how they viewed me, having been sheltered in the right wing like a caged dove. The Beta''s demeanor was a secondary concern. "Well? What will it be, Luna?" I let out a long sigh. "I''ll ept your generous offer," I answered reluctantly. He chuckled. "d to hear that." I walked beside him, feeling oddlyfortable despite having wanted to strangle him earlier. We had only known each other for a few months, ever since the betrayal of my false family and that forbidden kiss. And yet, this man had already managed to nt his feet in my personal space. He was decent enough for conversation. Beyond that, I had my doubts. He was the cold, calcting type who had his own way of luring in his prey. A masterful flirt just like his King. Maybe it was in their shared blood. That included their features and appearance. In other words, he could stand beside Killian in an entirely different way, yet his presence was no less striking. "So, tell me," he said after a moment, ncing my way. "You seem restless. Is this about the King?" I flinched slightly. "He... is busy." Leonidas nodded as if he understood something unspoken from me. "Well, that assumption isn''t wrong. There was an urgent matter that called him away tonight. He didn''t say when he''d return." My heart sank. Left behind again, without a word. The best response I could give was, I see. He studied me, his gaze assessing. "You really care about him, don''t you?" I opened my mouth to deny it, but the words refused to form. Did I? Care about him? Killian was cruel, dominant, and at times utterly unbearable-especially when he slipped into his authoritative mode. And yet... he was also my strongest ally, my protector, and dare I admit it? He only one who had ever truly made me feel wanted. Not to mention, he showered me with attention, whether he was aware of it or not. I pushed away that familiar warmth. He only did it because I was his precious little doll. 07:31 Sat, 26 Apr m 97% +50 I didn''t answer, and Leonidas seemed to take my silence as confirmation that I wasn''tfortable with the question. He shook his head, amused. "You know, you''re not like the others I''ve seen by his side." "Did you justpliment me?" I scrunched my nose. He smirked. ¡°Not really. You should see how the pce reacts to you. Everyone knows you''ve tamed the beast." I scoffed at the ridiculous statement. "Tamed? Hardly." Leonidas chuckled again before stopping in front of arge window overlooking the dark city below. "Do you miss your old home, Luna Ruby?" The question caught me off guard. Thinking back, I had always had a home. The Pack and everything in it had belonged to me, without exception. But sometimes, home wasn''t just about a building. "I don''t know if I ever truly had a home. Not since my parents died," I answered, feigning indifference. Leonidas let my words pass withoutment. "I see. And I have to ask-do you want to see them again?" I turned to him, confused. "See who?" "Your former family." His golden eyes locked onto mine. My breath caught in my throat, and my head spun. I had nearly forgotten they even existed. "You mean... Nathaniel? Cami?" I asked grimly, shifting my gaze elsewhere. "Why would I want to see them?" Leonidas tilted his head. "Closure? Revenge? Or maybe just to remind yourself that you won?" My hands clenched at my sides. "They''re prisoners now, awaiting trial. What more could I possibly gain from seeing them?" Leonidas shrugged. "Maybe nothing. But if you ever feel like visiting them and ying the role of a hidden viin, I''d be happy to escort you." Augh burst out of me. Tears nearly pricked the corners of my eyes. Meanwhile, Leonidas remained silent, though his gaze spoke volumes. "You think this is some kind of soap opera?" I wheezed through myughter. "You always take my good intentions the wrong way." "How could I not? Your intentions arepletely misguided!" He waved a hand dismissively. "Trust me. Show up as the most ruthless viin in front of their faces. After all, didn''t they always believe you were nothing more than a disposable side character?" Myughter faded. A part of me did want to go down to the dungeons and see them rot in their cells. But another part of me: I had suffered under their cruelty for so long wasn''t sure I could face them again. No matter how much hatred and resentment burned inside me, I just wanted this to be over. "I''ll think about it," I finally said. Leonidas smiled. "That''s all I ask." Chapter 75 Ruby''s POV (+50) The jewelryy inside an open velvet box before me, glistening under the afternoon sunlight streaming through the tall windows. A delicate sapphire pendant rested on a bed of deep blue silk, its silver chain shimmering with even the slightest movement. It was beautiful especially the color, which almost mirrored my own eyes. "Thank you for bringing this to me." The young maid bowed deeply. "I''m only doing my duty, mydy." "I see," I paused, my gaze still locked on the expensive gift. "If I may ask, who gave this to you? Was it the King''s right hand?" "No, mydy. I received direct instructions from Head Steward Beatrice," she replied. "Ah, I see." I couldn''t keep the disappointment from slipping into my voice. A dull ache throbbed in my chest. Sensing my feelings, the maid stepped a little closer, her tone turning careful. "Perhaps the jewelry was ordered by the King for you, mydy. And typically, it would be delivered through the shop''s trusted courier," she exined cautiously. I nodded, offering her a small smile. "That sounds like a more reasonable exnation. I appreciate your effort to ease my heart, little one." The maid flushed, quickly excusing herself and leaving me alone in the silence of my chambers. I reached out, letting my fingers graze the ne''s cool surface. My expression drastically changed following my mood. Killian had sent another gift. The second in two days. Was this his way of making up for his absence? Or was I simply something that needed to be pacified-like a kept woman who should be satisfied with luxury while her benefactor remained elusive? The thought unsettled me. I shouldn''t feel this way. Maybe I was overthinking, letting insecurities creep into ces they didn''t belong. And yet, the ache only grew, gnawing at me from within. "You''re beautiful," I murmured to the piece of jewelry. "I might wear you someday. Forgive me." Letting out a sigh, I closed the box and ced it on my vanity, beside the other gifts Killian had sent me. I''d deal with itter. For now, I had more important matters to attend to, something far more effective at dulling this persistent sting inside me. Jake Smith. The man had gone silent ever since the revtion about Cami. By now, I was certain that news of Dominic''s downfall had reached him, and without a doubt, he had questions. I couldn''t just sit idly by. He deserved answers. I owed him that much for he was the one who had given me the crucial evidence. And more than that, Jake deserved the chance to im what was rightfully his. [To: Jake Smith Your Honor Beta Smith, Cal, 20 (+50) It has been a long time since westmunicated. I hope this letter finds you in good health and well-being. Many things have transpired in our homnd recently. I assume you have heard of the unfortunate events stemming from The Ravenhold Pack-or rather, the pack that has now reimed its former glory as The Winterdawn Pack, The truth about Cami, about the child she carries, is no longer a secret. I understand your concerns, and I share them. The child''s future is at stake, and I do not trust Cami''s care or her intentions. You are the child''s father. As a parent, I share the same sentiment as you that children should not bear the sins and karma of their parents. If you still wish to fight for your rights, meet me in the Sundrench Kingdom. We will discuss the next steps. 10 You have every right to be part of this, no matter how much she wishes erase you. I have included the best map to guide you to thisnd. I hope this letter reaches you. I await your response. Best regards, Ruby Lucienne] I sealed the letter, attaching an additional parchment detailing Cami''s case along with a map. Once the wax hardened under the pressure of my insignia, I handed the message to a trusted servant with strict instructions for discretion. Just as I finished, a polite knock sounded at the door. Beatrice, the head steward, stepped inside. Her motherly smile instantly warmed my day. "Good afternoon, Luna. Am I interrupting?" she asked. I shook my head, rising from my seat. "Not at all, Beatrice. What brings you here?" "It''s time for lunch, Luna," she said with a gentle smile. I blinked, turning toward the clock on the wall. The hands pointed to one in the afternoon. I grimaced. I hadn''t even noticed the time, too preupied with thoughts of someone who had yet to return home. "I think I''ll postpone my meal, Beatrice. Thank your concern." I was just about to return to my seat when Beatrice''s next question stopped me. "Have you received King Killian''s gift, Luna?" "Yes, Beatrice. Just now." I had no intention of prolonging the conversation. Honestly, I was afraid of losing control over the storm raging inside me. But instead, I found myself voicing my thoughts. "The jewelry... who sent it? Was it specifically ordered?" Beatrice nodded. "Yes, Luna. I was the one who received the package. It was delivered directly from the jeweler." "I also wanted to ask," I cleared my throat softly. "Have you received any information about the King''s departure? I apologize if I sound rude, Beatrice." She adjusted her sses. "Not at all, Luna. Unfortunately, His Majesty left no message for me." A wave of disappointment washed over me, but I forced myself to appear unaffected. I nodded in gratitude and told her I would call for her if I decided to eat. 47.32 2.9758 The Instead of simply epting my request, Beatrice kindly offered a suggestion-one that, wurprisingly, piqued my intera "Being cooped up in your chambers like this must be dull. Why not try something to lift your spirite? I frowned. "Like what? I have no idea, Beatrice. She seemed lost in thought for a moment before replying, "Perhaps a walk in the garden? Or what about indulging in your hobbies?" Herst words sparked a realization. Of course. There''s one activity that I''m really passionate about and it seems to be the right choice at the moment. "Is there a piano here?" I asked shyly, rubbing my arm awkwardly. "It''s one of the hobbies I enjoy. And I still practice it to this day." Her expression softened. "The music room is always avable to you, Luna." Relief washed over me. "Could you take me there?" "Sure. Please, follow me." Beatrice guided me through the vast corridors, giving me time to admire the pce''s beauty once again. I had spent so much time lost in my own thoughts, confined to my chambers, that I had neglected to appreciate my freedom in this ce. "Do you think I''m too much of a coward, Leia?" The connection between us clicked instantly. "It''s about time you realized that, my soul," she said dryly. "You can''t me me when I''ve made a contract with the most dangerous man on this continent," I grumbled through our link. "Your anxieties are irrelevant. Can''t you see all the attention and hidden signals he''s been giving you? Just ept it!" I fell silent, my mind racing to process her words. Maybe it was time to ept what Leia was saying. But my paranoia was hard to silence! Too caught up in my thoughts, I hadn''t even noticed we had reached our destination. My breath caught as I took in the sight of the music room. "Oh my..." Beatrice chuckled beside me. "Magnificent, isn''t it?" "No, Head Steward. This is more than just magnificent!" The room was the embodiment of musical artistry itself. Various instruments were perfectly disyed in their designated spots, and at the heart of it all was a medium-sized stage, meticulously arranged. But my eyes were drawn to the centerpiece: a grand piano, polished to perfection, positioned near an open window overlooking the royal gardens. The scent of fresh blooms drifted in with the warm breeze, filling the room with a sweet, soothing fragrance. I stepped forward, running my fingers across its smooth ck surface before settling onto the plush bench. My hands found their ce above the keys, and like flowing water, my fingers began to y. Soft, mncholic notes filled the space, a melody both haunting and beautiful. 07:32 Sat, 26 Apr m S. 0%%97%l Music had always been my sce. It spoke when words failed, carrying emotions I dared not voice aloud. As I yed, I felt the weight in my chest case if only by the smallest fraction. Beatrice took a seat nearby, listening attentively. When the final note faded, she exhaled in admiration. "Your ying is truly beautiful, Luna.¡± I flushed. "Thank you." A deep, familiar voice echoed from the doorway. "Yes, she truly does." I froze. Slowly, I turned and there he was. Killian. "Hello, little wolf. Sorry to keep you waiting." Chapter 76 Chapter 76: The Heart of a Pure Soul Ruby''s POV "Ruby, you''re not okay." I scoffed internally. "Go back to the inner. I''m still alive." "After what you just witnessed?¡± I no longer responded to my wolf as I decided to cut off the connection. I didn''t want Leia to feel what I was feeling right now. That was the risk of sharing a soul. My steps faltered as I finally emerged from the underground prison. My knees barely had the strength to support my body, which felt so light like I had left a part of myself behind in that ce. My chest should have been filled with satisfaction and joy at having witnessed the traitors receive their punishment firsthand. (Killian made sure of that.) Unfortunately, it wasn''t. All I felt was emptiness. With trembling hands, I tried to brace myself against the stone wall, but my bodycked the strength to hold its own weight. I copsed to the floor, my knees hitting the ground, and from there, I cried. My sobs broke free, piercing through the air that felt colder than before. Tears streamed down my face, unstoppable, as if all the suffering I had swallowed whole was now wing its way out. I wished they had never existed in my life. I wanted to forget every betrayal, every wound, every torment they had carved into my body and soul. But more than anything else, I just wanted to live in peace. Even though this vengeance was forever etched into my hands, deep down, all I truly longed for was serenity. Nothing more. Just as I was beginning to lose control of myself, ¡°Let me carry you." I recognized the owner of that baritone voice. attempt to drive him off. "Leave, Killian." warm hand caught me swiftly. Stinctively swatted his hand away, a growl escaping me in a feeble True to his nature, he ignored what anyone else had to say. Killian Rudwick lifted my body onto a stable surface and kept me steady there. "Who would''ve thought you had a head as hard as stone? "And yet you still entertain this people!" I snapped. A few secondster, I realized my mistake. I ed a few apologies for my erratic behavior. Biting my lip, I tried to stifle the sobs that wouldn''t stop falling. "I thought I could be as strong as steel with this revenge. It''s humiliating," I berated myself. My sobs grew louder. Meanwhile, Killian had already pulled me into his arms. He didn''t say a single word. That was generous enough, because right now, all I wanted was to break apart. Both of my hands clutched his expensive clothes. "I''m tired, Killian. Really..." My voice shattered into pieces, just like my heart had long been fractured. I didn''t know how long I cried. Eventually, Killian murmured soothing words, pressing a gentle kiss to the corner of my tear-streaked eye. And that was when I saw it. The reflection in those dangerous Crimson eyes. There was a hint of guilt. "I didn''t anticipate that it would affect you this much." I frowned between my sobs. Then, Killian continued, "For whatever it''s worth... I made mistake, Ruby." Had I been fully conscious, I would have reacted dramatically. The infamous tyrant had just admitted to a mistake. That had never happened in the history of that man. Unfortunately, the world around me spun like a top, and in an instant, darkness swallowed me whole. Thest thing I heard was an apology whispered into my ear. ### Since the incident where I fainted, I have been entirely under the care of various healers. I was almost overwhelmed by how many of them I had to meet. Surprisingly, Killian hadn''t left my side even once except for today. I had grown sick of all the medicine. Fortunately, I was finally free to do whatever I pleased. As for the previous incident, I tried not to dwell on it too much. A small part of me felt embarrassed. After all, I had been the one arrogant enough to witness that bloody scene firsthand, acting as if I were some kind of formidable viin. But the Chapter 76. The Heart of a Pure Sod truth was, I didn''t have the kind of mental fortitude for that. I had just finished my morning tes when one of the royal attendants entered my room, bead bowed holding an endoge sealed with the crest of the Rovermoon Pack. My pulse quickened as I reached for it. I already knew was from Lake Sente I only hadn''t expected his letter to arrive this soon. Hastly, I sipped my finger under the war substate parchment, my eyes scanning his rushed handwriting. Jake''s Reply: [Dear Luna Ruby, I have received your letter and the information you provided. I can''t say I''m surprised, but seeing it in writing made me fe something. Cami''s deception, her betrayal. It still stings, even now. But my priority has always been my child. Thank you for confirming what I feared and for the warning, Luna I will not abandon my child. No matter what it takes, I will im them. I don''t know what Cami will do when coxtecated, but I refuse to let my own flesh and blood grow up in the filth of their mother''sption. If a triales, I want to be there. I know I''m taking a great risk by stepping into the King''s territory. The rumors of his cruelty have spread for and wide, bel have no choice. Please, tell me what I must do, I will arrive soon. Jake Smith] A sigh escaped my lips as I neatly folded the letter and ced it on top of the stack of documents before me fta the case, all I had to do was wait for his arrival. My gaze shifted to my desk, which was cluttered with parchments Winterdawn Pack''s restructuring ns, reports from the Beta and Gamma, and a list of potential candidates to rece Dominic as Alpha. I rubbed my temples a little firmer. Just because I was chained to this kingdom forever didn''t mean I could ignorete domino effect caused by those four criminals. I was immensely grateful that Killian was willing to take the pack under tis protection until a new Alpha was chosen. Because of that, the elders had sent me a list of powerful wolves who had proven themselves worthy. Afterward, the final decision would be made through a traditional selection trial. The top five candidates had already been chosen, and in theing weeks, they wouldpete to prove who was most deserving of leadership. I was quite moved when the elders expressed their concern and apologies for having been blind to Nathaniel and his group s crimes. They even still wanted me to be their Luna. But that was impossible, as I had no intention of marrying the new Alpha. I was far more content working behind the scenes for the pack I loved my first home since the day I was bom A sudden sharp knock on the door jolted me from my thoughts. "Come in." The door opened, revealing one of the pce guards. "Mydy, there is a guest waiting for you in the main hall. He dams to be Beta Jake Smith." I had just read his letter not long ago, and now the man had already arrived. I rose to my feet, smoothing the silk fabric of my gown. "Thank you. I''ll see him now." The guard led me through the winding main corridors of the pce. Jake was dared stepping into dangerous territory, and I prayed he would watch his tongue around Killian. As we entered the hall, I spotted him immediately. He stood rigidly, his posture tense, his eyes scanning the grandeur of the pce with a mix of awe and unease. Dressed in a fitted dark tunic and travel-worn boots, he looked different from thest time we met. There was still a spark of life in him, though the shadows beneath his eyes remained. I feel bad for him. When his gaze met mine, a flicker of relief crossed his face. "Jake," I greeted him with a small smile. ¡°You''re bolder than I expected.* "Or just more desperate," he chuckled with a hint of dry humor before bowing his head in respect. "Thank you for taking the time to see someone like me, Luna." "Nonsense. Please, have a seat, Jake." Before he could respond, the air in the room shifted. A dark presence swept in behind me, and I didn''t need to turn around to know who it was. The hairs on my arms stood on end, and I felt his body heat even before he spoke. "So, this is the banshee''s former lover." At first, confusion flickered across Jake''s face at the mention of the banshee. I gave him a subtle cue, and understanding dawned upon him. He straightened his posture as much as he could, his hands clenched at his sides as he carefully lifted his gaze to meet the sharp crimson eyes of the Lycan King. "King Killian," I interjected quickly, stepping between them, my fingers brushing against his forearm. "This is Jake Smith. Chapter 76: The Heart of a Pure Soul The one who helped me uncover the evidence against Cami.¡± Killian didn''t respond immediately. Instead, he tilted his head, studying Jake like a predator assessing its prey. "A Beta. Bold enough to step into my kingdom," he remarked. Jake swallowed hard. Sweat trickled down his temple. "It is an esteemed honor to be here in your residence, Your Majesty. I had toe due to an urgent matter." Killian raised an dark eyebrow. "I can see that." "You are well aware that I have the history with Cami. However, even though she betrayed me, that child is still mine." Jake stated firmly. "I will do whatever it takes to ensure he is raised knowing the truth, Your Majesty." For a moment, silence stretched between them. Then, to my surprise, Killian let out a small chuckle. "At least you have backbone." I exhaled, the tension I hadn''t realized I was holding finally easing from my shoulders. Killian turned to me, his gaze softer than it had been moments ago. "Do you want Mr. Smith to be present at the trial?" I nodded immediately. "Jake Smith has every right to be there, Killian." Killian cast onest look at Jake before stepping back. "Very well. I grant you permission to be there with my Ruby. But know this, Beta-" His voice dropped to a low, primal growl, his wolf rumbling beneath it. "Step out of line, and you won''t leave my kingdom alive." Jake visibly paled. "Understood, Your Majesty." "Great!" Killian left with a kiss on my cheek, and I flushed at the gesture. Jake had just be the first public witness to whatever was happening between Killian and me. But he seemed entirely unfazed by it. Because the main priority is his unborn baby. I wasn''t sure whether I should feel thankful or something else entirely. "Shall we continue our long conversation from earlier?" the Beta asked. I let out a breath. "Yes. The sooner, the better." Subscribed Chapter 77 Chapter 77: The Court and Freedom Killian''s POV The grand hall of the Sundrench Kingdom''s daytime court was thick with an atmosphere so tense it was nearly suffocating for anyone present. Towering stone pirs loomed over the gathered crowd, casting long shadows beneath the high- hanging chandeliers. The trial had finally arrived. I sat upon my throne as was fitting. With a mere nce, all the noise vanished as if swallowed by the earth. I had no need for the unpleasant buzzing in my head. Ruby stood beside me, graceful andposed, d in a pale yellow gown that shimmered beautifully under the chandelier''s glow. She was mesmerizing, a stark contrast to the filth that would soon face judgment before us. To my left stood Leonidas, his ever-reliable stoic mask firmly in ce, and to my right, Jake Smith, the unfortunate Beta who had dared step into my kingdom to im his right to be here. I felt Ruby''s fingers tighten around my right hand. I turned to her. When our eyes met in silent inquiry, she flinched and immediately murmured an apology. My free hand rested on the back of hers. "Are you nervous?" I whispered into her ear. ¡°T¡ªto be honest, I don''t know. Maybe more of a panic." I watched as Ruby''s chest rose and fell unevenly. I recognized it instantly: she was having a panic attack. Ten minutes remained before the trial began. Ignoring those around me, I quietly chanted a white magic spell, hoping it would be enough to ease the attack. Slowly, Ruby began to calm down. I wiped the sweat from her face with the back of my hand, and atst, some color returned to her delicate features. "Thank you..." I dismissed her gratitude. "Tell me if you start feeling any symptoms again. Do not take this lightly." "I understand." As I resumed my rightful posture, I caught sight of a few guests casting lingering nces in our direction. I shot them a deadly re, silently warning them to mind their own business. It worked. Not a single one dared look Ruby''s way again. Momentster, the used were dragged forward by my men, bound in chains and forced to their knees at the center of the hall, their faces marred by despair and terror. Nathaniel and his wife trembled, yet they still clung to thest remnants of their dignity. Cam Lucienne, her face streaked with tears, and Dominic, seething with rage, his pride still burning despite the iron grip on his wrists. It was almost amusing. "As a kingdom that upholds thew, the Sundrench Kingdom deres that we are assuming full authority over the sentencing of the four criminals today," Leonidas announced, unrolling the parchment in his hands. ¡°The Winterdawn Pack is no longer in a condition to function as a unified pack. Based on multiple cases that have surfaced in public media, we hereby ce The Winterdawn Pack under strict supervision until the designated period expires." With the opening statement delivered, the focus shifted toward today''s main stars. A quiet fun ying within me. It had been far too long since I had witnessed such a spectacr trial. Gently, I squeezed Ruby''s hand, hoping she understood that she was never alone in this that I would stand by her side through the trial of her false family and wicked ex-husband. Beta Leonidas'' voice rang out once more. "Nathaniel Lucienne and Evelyn Lucienne, you are charged with orchestrating the murder of Alpha Lucienne and his Luna, child exploitation, seizing the pack through deception, and conspiring with enemies of the crown. Your sentence is death." Nathaniel thrashed against his restraints, his eyes wide with panic. "Your Majesty! THIS IS UNFAIR!" "You are a king! Grant us a fair trial under thew. We weren''t even given two trials for appeal and verification!" the wretched Nathaniel rasped, his voice raw with desperation. Then, his beloved wife fell to her knees, both fists clenched in supplication. "Have mercy on us! We did what was best for this pack! The past must remain buried!" "Buried, you say?" Sessfully unlocked! I arched a brow, fingers tapping idly against the armrest of my throne. "How easily such sinful words slip from your tongue. Your crimes have been exposed, and forgiveness is not a privilege granted to traitors." Evelyn let out a choked sob as she threw herself around Nathaniel, trembling. "Please, we only wanted the best for our Chapter 77: The Court and Freedom daughter!" Her pleading gaze shifted desperately toward Ruby. "Ruby, tell him! Tell him that we are still your parents!" Ruby''s expression hardened, her blue eyes turning cold as ice. Oh, how I loved that look. "My parents are dead, fake mother. You and your husband are their murderers." Her words sent the entire hall into an uproar. The crowd finally pieced together the tragic history of The Winterdawn Pack, the only daughter of the wise Alpha and Luna had been alive all this time, standing before them. A cruel smile curled at my lips. I reveled in the sight of Ruby finally sinking her ws into every vile creature who dared to speak ill of her or feed her lies. That''s my woman. A fast learner. Leonidas continued, "Cam Lucienne, you are charged with aiding in fraud, conspiring against the rightful Luna, and attempting to produce an illegitimate heir to the pack. Your sentence is ten years of servitude before your scheduled execution. As for your child, once born, they will be ced under the legal custody of their biological father." "WHAT?!" Cam''s shrill scream echoed through the hall. "No, no! You can''t do this! Dominic, say something!" was consumed by a fury as fierce as volcanicva. His zing Dominic''s face was nk for a fleeting moment before it eyes snapped toward her. "Biological father? What is the meaning of this?!" A parchment containing the DNA test results was handed to him. He snatched it, his hands trembling as he read the words inscribed on it. His breathing turned shallow, and the feral roar of his wolf split through the air of the courtroom. "You... you lying whore!" Cam whimpered. "Dominic, please! It was only once! I thought-" "You thought what?! That you could fool me? That you could pass off another man''s bastard as mine?!" Dominic lunged at her, but the chains binding him held him in ce. "You will die by my hands, Cam Lucienne!" Cam screamed, copsing to her knees as Dominic managed to kick her. She instinctively cradled her swollen belly, while on the other side, Jake Smith tensed, fearing that the unborn child might sufferplications. Dominic continued to hurl curses at Cam, his rage unrelenting as he spat at her. The abuse sent Cam into hysteria. And then, she turned her gaze toward my throne. She knelt, rubbing her hands together in a desperate plea. "Your Majesty, please, I beg you! I will do anything! Just don''t take my baby away!" "Your pleas mean nothing," I said coldly. "Your child deserves better than to be raised by a deceiver." Jake, who had remained silent until now, finally stepped forward, his fists clenched. ¡°As stated in today''s ruling, I will take my child. I will raise them away from all of this." Cam sobbed harder, unable to fight back or defend herself any longer. A wise choice-because she would find no mercy from me. Leonidas read the final charges. "Dominic Foster, you are charged with attempting to seize the crown''s power, defiling the legacy of the Winterdawn Pack, and conspiring with enemies to weaken the kingdom. Your sentence is ten years of forcedbor before execution." "DAMN YOU, THE CURSED TYRANT! You think I will bow to you? I''d rather die than serve your kind!" Dominic roared, struggling wildly against his chains. I rose from my throne, descending the steps until I towered over him. "Oh, what a shame. Reality is such a painful thing, isn''t it, Dominic?" I murmured,zily wiggling two fingers toward my feet. " You will kneel. You will serve. And you will break long before I grant you the mercy of death." His jaw clenched, muscles twitching as every vein in his body strained under the weight of his seething hatred. "You bastard! I hope one day you-" I grabbed his throat before he could finish, lifting him slightly as his body convulsed in a desperate struggle for air. "ept your fate. Ten years is more than enough time for repentance," I said, smiling as sweetly as artificial sharin. His eyes flickered toward Ruby before shifting back to me, and realization dawned upon him. "I see now. You did all of this... for her? You conspired together!" I tightened my grip, ws digging into his strained neck. "How foolish can you be? We have been together ever since you tossed her aside for sweet little Ruby''s fake sister." 732 Chapter 77: The Court and Freedom His body sagged in my grasp, and I let him fall to the floor, coughing and gasping for breath. Turning my back on him, I faced Ruby. Her eyes were on me, unreadable. "Are you satisfied with the oue, love?" "Yes," A hushed murmur rippled through the hall at my words. Nathaniel and Evelyn''s faces contorted with horror as the weight of their mistakes crushed them. Cam sobbed on the floor, while Dominic remained the loudest prisoner, spewing nonsense about justice and tossing out empty death threats easily the worst joke of the new year. "Then let justice be served. Take them away!" The hall erupted into chaos as the traitors were dragged from our sight. Cam screamed, Dominic cursed, and Nathaniel and Evelyn wailed over the imminent end of their pathetic lives. "Thank you, Killian." I closed my eyes, savoring the softness of her voice, a slow smile curving my lips as I kept my hand securely at her side. Ruby rested her forehead against my shoulder, her body trembling slightly. "I''m finally free of them." I pressed a kiss to her temple. "Yes, my Ruby. Spread your wings and soar high to the happiness that awaits you." Subscribed Chapter 78 Chapter 78: Devotion Killian''s POV The morning after the trial was supposed to mark the beginning of peace, especially for Ruby Lucienne. How wrong I was. When I stepped into her chamber, expecting to find her loungingzily in bed with that teasing smile of hers, I was instead met with a heartbreaking sight. She was curled up, trembling. Her sheets were drenched in sweat, her face deathly pale, and as I approached, her lips parted with ragged breaths before she lurched forward, vomiting violently into the basin beside her bed. "K-Killian? I''m sorry you have to see this." Ruby hurriedly signaled for the maid to fetch a clean cloth and wiped her mouth. I stood there like aplete fool, stunned. "Since when? Why didn''t you tell me you were sick, Ruby?" Her eyes widened. "I didn''t mean to keep it from you. It only just-" "And none of you thought to report this to me immediately?!" I roared. My anger erupted unchecked. The servants dropped to their knees, begging for forgiveness, while Ruby, ever the selfless woman, shook her head, tears welling in her eyes. "It''s not their fault, Killian. Truly. Please don''t punish them," she pleaded hopelesses. I exhaled sharply, running a frustrated hand through my hair. I forced myself to reel in my emotions before they spiraled further out of control. Ignoring the servants, I strode to her bedside and sat at the edge of the mattress. "It seems I can''t take my eyes off you for even a moment, can I?" She turned her face away. Just as she was about to retort, a coughing fit racked her fragile frame. I immediately ordered one of the servants to summon a healer from the camp. A sharp, unfamiliar pain twisted in my gut. Fear. Anxiety. Worry. All the emotions that dragged me into the depths of worst-case scenarios. I rubbed soothing circles along her back while channeling my calming magic into her. "Hold on. The healer is on their way," I said gently. She nodded weakly, offering noints as I pulled her close against my chest. When she mumbled an apology for staining my clothes with her tears and traces of sickness, I silenced her with a stern look. Right now, my only concern was Ruby. This was the second time I had seen her so powerless-and this time, it was worse than before. In an instant, the entire castle was thrown into chaos. I barked out orders for fresh fabrics and new basins to be brought immediately. Every task I had nned for the day waspletely discarded as I remained by her side, refusing to leave, even when Leonidas reminded me of the territories that required my attention. Middle finger to them. Momentster, two healers arrived, both requesting permission to examine Ruby and diagnose her illness. "Fix her," I growled as one of them knelt beside her, their hands trembling as they checked Ruby''s pulse. "If you fail to find any indication of what''s wrong with her, your life will be the price." The first healer worked swiftly, clearly terrified by the very real threat in my voice. Cold sweat beaded on his forehead, his fingers trembling as he prepared a potion and applied a cooling salve to her temples. But nothing eased her fever. The second healer meticulously took notes on a clipboard, analyzing every symptom Ruby disyed. The two of them worked in tandem, desperately trying to find a way to heal her. As I watched them move, I felt trapped, useless. A beast unable to tear apart the true enemy before me: the illness that was draining the fire from Ruby''s eyes. For a fleeting moment, I regretted not studying medicine at the Magical Tower. The time I had given the healers was running out. My unease grew stronger with every passing second. Despite the potions and countless spells, Ruby still showed no signs of improvement. When her fever spiked again, I nearly lost my mind. "Why isn''t she getting better?! Exin!" My voice was death itself,ced with an edge that sent shivers down the hellers'' spines. Sessfully unlocked! "M-My King, this is a rare virus, worsened by exhaustion and stress one of them stammered. "I need more time to develop a stronger antidote-" "TIME?!" The very walls of my castle seemed to tremble beneath the force of my fury. I seized the fool by the cor and mmed Chapter 78: Devotion him against the chamber wall. "I will give you one final chance. You have 24 hours. Do whatever it takes. If she gets worse- My ws extended, glinting with deadly promise. "You will not live to see the next sunrise." The healer nodded frantically, his face as pale as a corpse. Without wasting another second, he rushed off to gather supplies and return to the camp to craft a new remedy. Meanwhile, the remaining healer stayed behind to stabilize Ruby''s heartbeat and soothe the fever burning through her body. I sat back down beside Ruby, carefully sweeping the damp strands of hair from her sweatden forehead. Seeing her like this, helpless and fragile, gnawed at something deep within me. She was never meant to be like this. She should be grinning at me, challenging me, biting back with grumpy words and an even sharper mind. "Killian... I''ll be fine, trust me." I took her small hand in mine, pressing a kiss to her wrist without the slightest hesitation. "I''ll believe it when I see proof." She let out a raspy chuckle. "That''s just like you" Minutes passed, filled with my futile attempts to distract her from the aches tormenting her body and the pounding in her head. Eventually, exhaustion won, and she drifted into sleep. "Your Majesty." The healer approached, bowing low before speaking. "I increased Lady Ruby''s sleeping potion dosage. It should allow her to regain some strength while we work on a cure." "I appreciate it, healer." The servants had returned to their stations, the healer had left to join his partner in research, and I had driven away any family member who dared to pester me with matters of the court. I remained faithfully at her side until the sun was swallowed by the embrace of the moon. I dragged a chair closer to her bed, sitting vigil beside her. At some point, I must have sumbed to exhaustion because the next thing I knew, a heart-wrenching whimper jolted me awake. Ruby thrashed against the sheets, her face twisted in terror, her fingers clutching the fabric so tightly that her nails threatened to tear through it. "N-No... don''t-" Her sobs broke through the air, and my chest tightened painfully. "Ruby... hey." I was beside her in an instant, grasping her wrist before she could hurt herself. "Wake up, love. You''re safe," I whispered into her ear. "It''s me. Killian. Come on, it was just a nightmare." She jolted awake, her eyelids finally fluttering open, but those deep ocean-blue eyes of hers were still lost in the horrors of her dream. It took more whispered reassurances, more soothing words to pull her from the fog of that nightmare, and when she finally broke free, her gazended on me with such palpable relief that I almost despised myself for not waking up sooner. "Killian? You... you''re here?" "Yes, Ruby." I squeezed her hand, letting my warmth seep into her chilled skin. "It''s okay. You''re safe. No one will touch you." ''And if they try, I will bury them to the core of the earth, I thought grimly. She exhaled shakily, her fingers clinging to mine as if I were the only thing anchoring her to reality. And maybe, at that moment, I was. I saw it in the way her shoulders rxed, in the way her breathing slowly steadied. If someone had told me that one day, King Killian would tend to the sick and tolerate being vomited on, I would have kicked them off a cliff. And yet, here I waspletely unbothered by it. A soft sigh slipped from her lips as her delicate fingers traced over my knuckles, her touch featherlight. "You shouldn''t have stayed with me all night, Killian." Her pale face scrunched in disapproval. "You''re a king, remember?" "I do what I want," I scoffed, masking my true intentions. "You should be ruling, not wasting your time taking care of a sick woman." She chuck by a cough. weakly, though it was interrupted I shot her an unimpressed look. "Ruling means nothing if you''re not here to witness it. Didn''t you want to see the chaos I create?" Chapter 78: Devotion She blinked up at me, and for a fleeting second, the faintest blush dusted her pale cheeks. "That... was surprisingly sweet. And little terrifying." "Stop talking nonsense, little wolf. Go back to sleep." Now, I was already on the bed beside her. My fingersbed through her hair, and sometimes, I pressed a soft kiss to the crown of her head. With a soft hum, Ruby let exhaustion pull her under once more. But this time, there were no nightmares. And I stayed by her side all night, refusing to let go. ¿Ú Subscribed Chapter 79 Chapter 79 Jalome Flower Chapter 79: Jalome Flower Killian''s POV Blood dripped from the execution post, pooling beneath the two freshly severed heads thaty motionless on the ground. Their lifeless eyes remained frozen in terror, a fitting end for vile traitors. The stench of death hung heavy in the air. Nathaniel and his wife had taken their final breaths, their sins finally catching up to them. This should have been the pinnacle of victory, the perfect conclusion to the trial that had sentenced all four of them to death. The two remaining traitors had been shackled and enved in the royalbor force, though Carri was given an exception due to her pregnancy. I had no desire to upset Ruby. She cared too much for the unborn child. I exhaled sharply. Sadly, she was still unwell. Just the thought of her lying helpless in bed made my blood boil. She should have been here, witnessing the downfall of those who had betrayed her. Instead, she was trapped within the walls of my castle, feverish and frail, her body ravaged by something beyond my control. I hated it. So, I was left with no choice but to summon the one person who might be able to help. Ruby''s friend and, unfortunately, a business associate of mine. Nora Lee. The Grand Witch stormed into my domain, her sharp emerald eyes already aze with fury before I could even utter a word. Her long ck braid tumbled over her shoulder as she crossed her arms, the air around her thrumming with untamed magic. I pinched the bridge of my nose, bracing myself for the inevitable assault on my ears. "You bastard!" "You and Ruby owe me a damn exnation!" "But what pisses me off even more is that you waited this long to call me?!* I cut in, ¡°Nora, could you mind your manners for just one second?" That only threw more fuel on the fire. She had the audacity to step closer, jabbing a finger at me. "Ruby is my friend. I just found out she''s sick, and you expect me to stay calm?" she all but shrieked. I leaned back against my desk, thoroughly unimpressed. "If I had known you''d be such a delight, I would''ve called you sooner." "Oh, shut it, you insufferable tyrant. Stop wasting my time with your sarcasm and start exining, Rudwick," she snapped, her tone dripping with irritation. My jaw tightened. I didn''t appreciate the way she spoke to me, but I let it slide for now. I needed her. "She copsed two days ago. Fever, weakness, vomiting. The healers here have been useless in treating her," I told. Nora''s fingers twitched, as if she was barely restraining herself from pping me. "And you didn''t think to contact me sooner because...?" "Because I had other matters to handle," I replied tly, watching as the executioners dragged the corpses away. "In case you hadn''t noticed, there''s a war, a trial, and an entire kingdom that needs my attention." Nora scoffed. "Oh yes, poor you, trying to bnce your oh-so-busy schedule while Ruby rots away with a fever. That must be so difficult." My eyes narrowed, and the air around me darkened with a murderous aura. "Watch your tone, witch." "Or what? You''ll kill me?" She stepped closer, utterly fearless. "Go ahead. Try it. See what happens." "I didn''t summon you here to argue, Nora. You want to help her? Then do it." I took a deep breath, forcing my anger down. Meanwhile, Nora held my gaze for a long moment before exhaling sharply. "Take me to her. Now." Atst, I led the witch to her dearest friend. The moment we arrived, Nora rushed to Ruby''s side. Up close, she looked even worse, her face deathly pale, her lips dry and cracked, and her breathsing in shallow, ragged gasps. She barely reacted when I sat beside her, carefully brushing the damp strands of hair from her forehead. I hated seeing her like this. Something unsettling twisted in my chest. "Step back, Rudwick. And keep those hands of yours to yourself." My teeth clenched. Elysian would have howled withughter, seeing me forced into patience like some cave-dwelling monk. If it weren''t for Ruby, the only thing left of this woman would be a gravestone. Maybe. Nora knelt beside the bed, pressing her palm gently to Ruby''s forehead before murmuring an incantation under her breath. Chapter 79: Jalome Flower Golden light red between her fingers, pulsing as it seeped into Ruby''s skin. Ruby exhaled softly, her body loosening ever so slightly. "This isn''t just any ordinary fever," Nora said. "I already figured that out. Anything useful to add?" I said dryly. She shot me a sharp look, deliberately withholding her answer as her hands moved over Ruby''s body, magic threading into her veins. "Ruby," Nora whispered, her tone now softer, the golden glow never fading. "You idiot. You always push yourself too hard." Ruby stirred, hershes fluttering as she let out a weak chuckle. "Says the woman who once fainted after casting a storm spell for three days straight." Nora let out a breathlessugh. "That was different. That was impressive." "That was reckless," Ruby corrected weakly. I clicked my tongue. "Are you two done reminiscing?" "Shut up, Killian!" they both snapped in unison. I pinched the bridge of my nose. "For Hell''s sake. Unbelievable." After a few minutes, color slowly returned to Ruby''s face. She still looked exhausted, but at least she no longer appeared to be knocking on death''s door. Finally, Nora pulled away, rolling her shoulders. "That''s enough for now," she said. "But she needs Jalome flowers. They''re one of the best for cellr recovery." "Jalome flowers?" I echoed. Nora smirked, tilting her chin up in challenge. "Rare, hard to find, and they only grow in the coldest regions of the North. Think you can handle it, oh great and mighty King?" "Are you questioning my abilities, woman?" "I''m questioning whether you care enough to make the effort." A low growl rumbled in my chest. "You insolent Grand Witch, I''ll get those flowers- and if necessary, I''ll shove them down your throat." Despite looking half-dead, Ruby let out a weakugh. "I never thought I''d live to see the day you two bicker like children." Nora huffed, standing up. "I''ll stay and watch over her. You go get the flowers." I folded my arms,ughing mockingly. "I don''t take orders from witches." "Then consider it a suggestion from someone who actually gives a damn about Ruby." We locked eyes, a silent battle of wills raging between us. It took every ounce of restraint I had not to string her up on the very execution post still drenched in blood outside. Atst, I conceded. I stepped closer to Ruby, swatting away Nora''s hand as she tried to p me. "I''ll be back soon," I said gently, brushing my fingers over Ruby''s cheek. She gave me a drowsy, gentle smile. "I''ll be waiting." Something in me burned at those words. Then she shifted her gaze between me and Nora. "Now get out. Both of you. You''re giving me a headache," she''s grumbled. Nora whistled, tossing her hair over her shoulder. "dly." I sighed, ncing at Ruby onest time before turning away. "I expect you to still be in one piece when I return." She only hummed in response, already drifting off to sleep as I walked away. Well, I''ll get those damn flowers. Even .. to tear this little world apart to do it. ave Chapter 80 Chapter 80: Good News Killian''s POV I have never been a patient person, but today is testing the limits of my patience. The Jalome flower has been obtained in a rtively short time. Of course, it was easy to get. There are only a few things in this world that I cannot obtain once I set my mind to them. Now, the challenge is no longer finding that rare blooming flower but waiting. Standing outside Ruby''s room, I crossed my arms, my fingers tapping against my biceps. Leonidas stood beside me. When I told him to leave or find some entertainment elsewhere, the Beta chose to stay. Usually, he would take my generosity. Perhaps he had a special sentiment for Ruby because I noticed how his expression always changed whenever we talked about her condition. "Is he interested?" I mused internally. Impossible. Leonidas would nevery im to something that had already been marked as mine. I knew him. Neither of us spoke. I didn''t feel the need to, either. Pushing away those negative thoughts, I focused on my growing impatience. If Nora didn''t show her face soon, I would break down that door in ten minutes. "I''ve never seen you like this, Your Majesty." Leonidas finally said. "Like what?" I didn''t bother turning to him. He let out a small chuckle. "Afraid." The word made me shift my gaze toward him, my crimson eyes narrowing. "Watch your tongue." Leonidas merely shrugged, unfazed. "Call it whatever you want, but you''ve been pacing this damn hallway like a caged animal." He nodded toward the closed door, and my eyes followed. "That woman is making you act strange." he''s sick," I replied tly. "If she dies, my ns will fall apart.¡± Leonidas smirked slightly. "Right. Of course. It''s about your ''ns. Not that you actually care." I gave him a nk stare. "I don''t owe you an exnation." "No," he agreed, "but maybe you owe yourself one." "You''ve been reading too much poetry, Leonidas. Why do you suddenly care about me and that woman?" I asked, folding my arms. "Is this some kind of personal validation for your ''other motives''?" "If by ''other motives, you mean making Lady Ruby fall for me. No, Your Majesty. That would be very wrong," the one-eyed Beta replied. "You can''t me your king for assuming when that''s what it looks like." I tilted my head, my crimson eyes scanning him from head to toe. "You also overreacted to the former Luna." Then, in a colder tone, I continued, "If I didn''t know better, I''d assume you were plotting to stab me in the back, Beta." Before Leonidas could answer, the door creaked open, and Nora stepped out. Her face was twisted with infuriated. She pulled at the ribbon holding her long hair in ce while staring at me. "She''s recovered. But you''ll need at least another eight hours before you see her smile as bright as an August summer sun,¡± she said, her voice dripping with thick sarcasm and tant disrespect. "In short, Angry King, she needs rest. Not more stress." My anger immediately subsided. A sense of soothing relief filled me. "That''s the good news I want tho hear." Nora stifled a mockingugh. "It''s about time you overhauled the healers in your kingdom, Your Majesty." "That''s a good suggestion. But step aside. I want to see her." As I reached for the door, Nora stopped me. Not with her hands, but with a binding spell. "Do you have a death wish pulling something like this? Let. Me. Go." My venomous, lethal hiss did nothing to faze h Leonidas moved toward Nora, ready to force h Sessfully unlocked! sees tyrant was trampled under her feet. "I will, but only if you answer my question," she growled. I clenched my jaw. "Fine." She finally released the spell, then looked at me with an expression I didn''t like. Chapter 80 Good News "Now, exin something to me, Your Majesty" she said, her voice dripping with fake politeness. "How did you and my best friend end up in this mess?" I raised an eyebrow. "It''splicated." That only fueled her anger further. She nted her hands on her hips, snapping at me. "After everything that''s happened, you dare to call it plicated''? My god, I''m still reeling from the news about the pack and Ruby''s family situation "This whole mess. I can''t even wrap my head around it." She shot a nce at her best friend''s door. "Why did she do all of this alone?" "She wasn''t alone. She had me," I replied fiercely. Nora let out a frustratedugh. "And that''s exactly what worries me! Who doesn''t know your damn reputation, Rudwick? I leaned against the wall, crossing my arms again. "Nora. You should be thanking me." "For what? Destroying her life in the future?" I smirked. "For helping her achieve her dream. Revenge." "What?" "I said it clearly." I stepped closer to her, my face hardening. "You''re not deaf, are you? Besides, this rtionship is mutually beneficial. So, I suggest you stay in yourne." That shut her up. But there was still anger in her eyes. Understandable-she felt betrayed that her best friend had chosen to sell herself to a viin rather than seek her help. "I can''t believe this," she groaned, rubbing the back of her neck. "Not forcing you to, Witch." Silence stretched between us. Finally, she sighed and resumed her barking. "I should burn this pce down. But I know Ruby would be furious." She shot me a sharp re before shaking her head. "I don''t know what kind of deal you made with her, but if you hurt her-" "I don''t answer to threats," I cut her off harshly. "But rest assured, Nora, I have no intention of harming her." "Damn it." Nora ruffled her hair, muttering curses in multiplenguages. "Why do I feel like I''m stuck in the middle of this mess?!" "Such a pity," I sneered. She groaned and yanked off her witch''s cloak in frustration. "I need a drink. I''m sure your kingdom has a stash of the finest liquor." "Ah, of course. Just find one of the servants and tell them I gave you permission." My lips curled into a half-hearted smile. She scoffed before shaking her head and walking away. "Fine. Thanks, Angry King." "Enjoy your little vacation." I waved a hand dismissively and watched as she disappeared down the hallway, still mumblingints under her breath. Beside me, Leonidas let out a small chuckle. "I like her." I shot him a disbelieving look. "Please, have your standards dropped?" "Haha. I''ve always had a thing for unique people, Your Majesty." Subscribed 0 Likes Chapter 81: One Death is Nothing Chapter 81 Chapter 81: One Death is Nothing Ruby''s POV "Alright. This is just a casual visit." I took a deep breath before knocking on the heavy wooden door of Killian''s office. I tried not to get carried away by this misced euphoria but I couldn''t. My mind kept racing with memories of his presence beside me when I was ill. The way his cold hands cared for me, his willingness to find medicine, and everything else. It was strange how a man so ruthless could be so gentle. I could hear Leia cracking jokes at my expense, making my head start to throb. Just as I was about to scold her, the door to Killian''s office finally swung open. The sight inside left me speechless. The room was filled with important figures: council members, generals, and other influential people in his kingdom. Their sharp gazes turned toward me, some filled with curiosity, others with disgust. Instinctively, I wanted to retreat, to avoid whatever was happening here. But before I could take a step back, a familiar baritone stopped me. "Where do you think you''re going?" I gasped, Killian lit his cigar, his crimson eyesmanding without words. 1-"I stammered, my fingers squeezing around my other arm. "I didn''t know you had guests. I cane backter." "That doesn''t sound like a good idea," he replied. I shook my head, unable to withstand the weight of all the stares directed at me. "Forgive me, Your Majesty. I''d rather return another time." Before I could process what was happening, he was already beside me, pulling me into the room with an unyielding grip, leaving me no chance to escape. I had no choice but to follow him. But what humiliated me the most was when he effortlessly pulled me onto hisppletely unfazed by the presence of so many high-ranking officials. Heat rushed to my face as I stiffened in his hold. "Killian," I whispered urgently, "What are you doing?!" His lips curved into an amused smirk as he adjusted his grip on my waist. "As you can see, I''m working." His casual tone irritated me even more. ¡°Anyone can see that. The problem is my current position." "Just ignore them and focus on your king. That should be easier," he uttered, taking a slow drag from his cigar, smoke curling around him. "What are you all looking at? Keep working!" I swallowed hard, resisting the urge to hide my face. The room fell intoplete silence. Some men turned away in difort, while others dared to watch either with hidden smirks or disapproving gazes-despite Killian''s earliermand. One of them, a nobleman I didn''t recognize, let out a mockingugh. "Truly astonishing, indeed," the man swirled the wine in his goblet. "That His Majesty would take such... an unusual interest in a woman with a tainted past.¡± A suffocating tension filled the air. "As your loyal follower, Your Majesty, I must admit I have grave concerns," he added, his audacity shocking. "And what concerns might those be, Lord Volkov?" A cold shiver ran down my spine. I wasn''t particrly bothered by the man''s insult. What unsettled me was what would happen next. I grasped Killian''s arm in an attempt to hold him back, but he paid me no heed. "Your choice of partner, for instance. Surely, there are more honorable women than... a widow?" That was the final blow to Killian''s patience. I barely had time to react before he shifted me from hisp. The warmth of his hands on my waist vanished as h toward the nobleman. "Pardon me, Lord Volkov. Could you repeat that?" His voice dropped to a deadly whisper,ced with the promise of blood. The man, finally realizing his mistake, paled an insting "Y-Your Majesty. I only meant that-" The words never left his mouth. Sessfully unlocked! ved With inhuman speed, Killian''s wsshed out, and in one swift motion, he tore the man''s throat open. A sickening gurgle filled the air before his body copsed onto the table, blood pooling across the smooth mahogany surface. Chapter 81: One Death is Nothing Choked screams erupted around the room. Someone gasped. Others hurriedly shoved their chairs back in rm. My breath caught in my throat. I had witnessed many deaths in my life, but never like this. My heartbeat pounded in my ears as I sat frozen in Killiart''s char my entire body trembling uncontrobly. The crimson stain spreading across the wood, the lifeless body. It overwhelmed my senses, and my stomach churned violently. Killian strode back to his seat, wearing his signature charismatic smile. "I don''t like repeating myself," he said casually, wiping his wed fingers with a handkerchief. "If any of you speak out of turn again, you''ll meet the same fate." Not a single head dared to lift. I could even hear the sound of a pin drop. Then, with a snap of his fingers, he turned to his Beta. "Leonidas." Leonidas stepped forward. "Yes, Your Majesty?" "Call the servants. Have them clean up this mess." Killian gesturedzily toward the corpse as if it were nothing more than spilled wine. "Understood." The others in the room struggled to conceal their horror. One by one, they muttered hurried excuses about prior engagements, bowing hastily before fleeing. It wasn''t long before we were alone. I let out a shaky breath, finally daring to move. "Killian." He turned his attention to me, his crimson eyes gleaming with satisfaction. "Yes, little wolf?" "Did you... have to kill him?" Instead of answering immediately, he stepped closer, wrapping his clean hand around me. His grip on my waist tightened slightly. "Yes." A cold sweat trickled down my neck. There wasn''t a trace of regret in his voice. I should have been used to this by now. This was the man I had made a deal with, the man who had entwined my fate with his. And yet, as his fingers traced gentle circles along my back, I found myself wondering would there evere a time when his cruelty no longer surprised me? What unsettled me more was the realization that I no longer feared him as I once did. Killian moved to stroke my hair. "I''ll be busy for a while. Stay here." "Stay here? In your office?" "Would you rather be somewhere else?¡± His gaze flickered to my lips, and my stomach twisted at the way he looked at me like he was contemting something far more dangerous than another execution. I quickly shook my head. "No, of course not. Being with you is far better." "Ah, such a lovely answer." A triumphant smirk curled his lips as he leaned in, grazing his teeth lightly against the shell of my ear. "I might have a few ideas to keep you entertained. Care to hear them?" Chapter 82 Chapter 82: Farewell Ruby''s POV I was starting to get better at finding Killian Rudwick''s weak spots. Not only was it useful for strengthening my position in his kingdom, but it also allowed me to get whatever I wanted like bringing Amara to the kingdom and making her my servant once again. I blushed as I recalled our previous heated activities. Pressing both hands to my cheeks, I hoped the warmth would fade away. My lips still felt swollen from his actions, and I had done my best to cover up the marks he had left on my exposed skin. That man had no sense of shame or rules. Amara didn''t need to be shocked upon seeing her former master freshly ravished by her king. A few momentster, Amara entered the room. She burst into tears the moment she saw me. "Luna!" She rushed forward and grabbed both of my hands, as if afraid I would disappear again. "How could you leave me? You just vanished! I had no one! No one at all!" I had to stifle augh at her dramatic disy, though my heart warmed at the sight of her. Amara, my loyal personal servant from the Winterdawn Pack. I had missed the younger woman quite a bit, especially her endless humor after we had torn down the thick walls of formality between us. I squeezed her hands, letting her vent her frustration before pulling her into an embrace. She clung to me, sobbing into my shoulder before pulling away and looking at me with swollen eyes. "You left me there, Luna! With all those elders who don''t understand anything and that suffocating Beta!" "Imagine me having to fight my way through their boring meetings and their ridiculous questions about who the new Alpha is! Where were you! Do you have any idea how unbearable it was?" she ranted nonstop. I chuckled softly, wiping the tears from her cheeks. "I''m sorry, Amara. I didn''t mean to leave you like that. But you handled it just fine, didn''t you?" Amara pouted deeply. Shaking my head, I gave her an encouraging smile. "I''ve taught you a few things, Amara. You''ve never disappointed me," I said gently. She huffed. "But still, I''m mad at you!" "All right, I''ll make it up to youter. How about that?" Amara''s walls of anger began to crumble as I coaxed her. "Besides, you''ll be stuck with me for a long time here, Amara." Amara wiped her damp face and sighed in defeat. "I give up against your little maniptions, Luna." I let out augh again. "d to know I''ve finally worn you down." Then, I guided the younger woman to sit beside me, pouring her a cup of warm tea. "I''m sure there''s an interesting story aside from all the troubles you just mentioned. I want to hear it." Amara sniffled once more before calming herself down. "They''re doing fine, actually. Ever since those traitors left, everything has slowly returned to normal. In fact, I think it''s even better now, Luna." She gripped the handle of the teacup I had offered her tightly, gazing at her small reflection in the brown liquid. Exhaustion was beginning to show on her face, and guilt stirred within me. "This pack is still adjusting to the new leadership structure, but they respect you, Luna. The elders are keeping everything in order while waiting for your final decision on the new Alpha," she added. I nodded thoughtfully. "I''ve already chosen the candidates. It wasn''t an easy decision to narrow it down to just five." "Are you still going to hold the traditionalpetition, Luna?" ¡°Of course. It''s the only way to avoid any appearance of favoritism, even though there''s one candidate who has particrly impressed me," I replied, recalling the face of that candidate. Unfortunately, direct selection was forbidden. Amara took a sip of her tea, exhaling softly as the warmth spread down her throat. "That''s good news, Luna. At least our Beta won''t be losing his mind without an Alpha anymore." Then, she hesitated before looking at me agair. But, what about you ins? Are you truly okay here?" Sessfully unlocked! Her concern touched me. I offered her a gentle smile cing my hand over the back of hers. She flinched slightly, her eyes widening at the unexpected gesture of reassurance. "I''m doing very well, Amara. I did fall ill for a while, but Killian made sure I was well taken care of," I exined. Her jaw dropped, and she blinked in disbelief. "Killian Rudwick? The terrifying, ruthless, bloodthirsty Lycan King? That man?!" Chapter 82: Farewell I rolled my eyes. "He''s not as scary as people say. At least, not with me." "So, I don''t have to be that afraid of him?" she asked cautiously. "No," I responded, patting her shoulder. "Trust me. I happen to be his biggest weakness." Amara gave me a skeptical look for a moment, and I could practically see the wheels turning in her head. "Oh. I see," she said slowly, drawing out the words. I shook my head, feeling entertained at her ridiculous expression. "Let''s not start the day with a gloomy mood. Come on, I''ll show you around. You''ll be staying here with me, and Killian has already approved it." Her eyes widened with a sparkle of joy. "Wait, really? I can stay here with you, my Luna?!" "Sure.." Amara''s excitement soared only to fade when we turned a corner and nearly collided with someone I never expected to run into so soon. My breath caught in my throat as I came to an abrupt stop, and Amara tensed beside me. There he was. Dominic. But he was no longer the man who once held the title of Alpha. Now, he was nothing more than a ve, a shadow of the arrogant man he used to be. He stood in the hallway, head bowed, dressed in tattered clothes. His once well-groomed hair was unkempt, and his body looked weaker thinner. The golden aura that had once surrounded him had vanished, leaving behind only the shell of the man I once knew. Amara let out a noise of disgust. "Ugh. I can''t stand the sight of him. He deserves every bit of this." Dominic lifted his head slightly at her words, his eyes meeting mine. I expected a fierce reaction from him, but none came. The guards shoved him forward, forcing his head down as they dragged him away. One of the pce guards offered me a quick apology for the minor disturbance, and I gave him a small nod in acknowledgment. I nced toward where they were taking Dominic, and my stomach churned. There were many other ves there, all being herded into the courtyard. I quickly ced a hand on Amara''s shoulder. "Come on, let''s go." Without looking back, I turned and led Amara down the corridor. As we walked, I could still feel the past brushing against my back, the pain of it wing at my skin. I forced myself to ignore it. This was my new life, one granted to me by Killian. It was time I learned to live it in peace. And so, as my steps carried me further away from the source of my suffering, I silently bid farewell to my past. Subscribed 0 Likes Chapter 83 Chapter 83: Discovering the Feeling Chapter 83: Discovering the Feeling Ruby''s POV The health report is in my hands. I read it twice to ensure its uracy, and finally, the invisible chains constricting my chest began to loosen. Cami''s condition is stable. There are no signs of her causing trouble, no reckless attempts to break free from the fate that has been bestowed upon her. But what matters most to me is the life growing inside her. Her child-Beta Jake Smith''s. A new soul, waiting to enter this world in just one more week. That is all the time left before everything changes again, before Cami spends her days facing the same fate as Dominic. "If I show up to check on the pregnancy, will that be a problem?" I murmured, shaking my head afterward. "That doesn''t seem like a good idea." I had written a letter to Jake to inform him. No matter what happens, that child is his responsibility, not mine. And yet, my thoughts remain fixated on the innocent life growing inside my so-called sister''s womb. I can only hope that the gods protect the baby, shielding it from the karma of its mother. That child does not deserve to bear the burden of her sins. Closing my eyes, I let out a deep sigh, shifting my gaze toward the towering ss window in my room. My fingers traced over my chest, right above my heart, where a familiar warmth pulsed. Killian. Just his name alone was enough to make my breath hitch. I am certain he is the reason behind all of this, the storm raging inside me. The Lycan King, ruthless and merciless to everyone... except me if I dared to admit it at this moment. I have spent my life learning how to protect myself from men like him. But Killian is different. Brutal, yes, but beneath the wicked smirk and sharp words, there is something not everyone can see. It feels like a whisper of promises calling out to me in the darkness. Even my wolf agrees. I clenched the fabric of my nightgown. I fear the truth that I am about to face. Craving something so forbidden is utterly terrifying. I had never felt as free as a dove soaring through the sky until the one called a monster made it happen for me. First, I was merely a pawn in the game orchestrated by my so-called family. Then, I became a Luna to an Alpha who despised me. And finally, for over twenty-four years, I lived solely to ensure the happiness and well-being of others, never truly caring for myself. When someone finally taught me how to enjoy life, I felt... truly valued. I whispered, "Is this what true love means?" My heart always raced for him, just as my eyes always sought him. If I continued like this, I wasn''t sure how much longer! could keep my feelings hidden. But would he choose me outside of this agreement? Beyond the im he so boldlyid upon me? A knock on my door pulled me from my tangled thoughts. "Come in!" The door swung open, and there he was, the tyrant. Killian Rudwick, in all his deadly glory. His crimson eyes settled on me with a empety expression, yet I could sense a faint warmth hidden within them. "You haven''te to my roomtely," Killian grumbled, stepping inside and shutting the door behind him. The slight furrow in his brow suggested he was upset, and I nearlyughed at the absurdity of it. The most feared ruler to ever exist... pouting like a child who had lost his favorite treat. "I wasn''t aware that I was required to," I teased, folding my arms. "Is His Majesty feeling neglected?" He tilted his head, those piercing crimson eyes scanning me, and I felt my cheeks heat up. "I''m sure you already know the answer, little wolf." My lips twitched, my usual calm expression barely holding. "Then perhaps next time, Your Majesty, you sh formal invitation." "For hell''s sake. I hate it when you deliberately use that title, Ruby." send a That sent me into a fit ofughter. I no longer cared about etiquette in front of him. Tears welled in the corners of my eyes from how amusing the situation was. It''s not every day you get to rattle a king''s emo Sessfully unlocked! "Sorry, Killian. You''re just too fun to mess with." Instead of answering, the man remained silent. In two strides, he was in front of me, his towering frame looming over mine. I felt my throat go dry, my fingers tingling with the urge to pull him closer that not even a sliver of space remained between 1. us. Chapter 83: Discovering the Feeling "I shouldn''t have to invite what already belongs to me," he murmured, his breath warm against my skin. "And besides, you ve been running, little wolf." I stood my ground, even as my pulse quickened. "I''ve been... a little busy," I stammered, blushing. "Too busy for me?" He clicked his tongue, shaking his head. "Uneptable." Before I could protest, Killian effortlessly pulled me into his arms. I gasped, my arms instinctively wrapping around his neck. "Killian!" "I''m reiming my time. If you won''te to me, then I''ll take you myself," he dered with satisfaction, carrying me toward the door. I groaned in frustration, knowing there was no point in resisting when he was like this. "You''re impossible!" He smirked down at me. "And yet, you still like it." I did not appreciate his blunt remark and responded with a bold smack to his arm. His deep, teasingughter was my only reward. By the time we reached his chambers, I had already epted my fate. He set me down gently, but before I could regain my bnce, he caged me between himself and the massive four- poster bed. "You''ve been avoiding me," he used, both hands nted on either side of me. "I just realized it... and I don''t like it.* "I wasn''t-" "Lying has never been your specialty, Ruby." I sighed, lowering my gaze. "I just needed time to think." Killian''s fingers tilted my chin up, forcing me to meet his gaze. "Is it something important?" "Yes." His lips curled into a knowing smirk. "Will you exin it to me? I''m very curious now." I didn''t answer. Instead, I pushed up onto my toes and captured his lips in a searing kiss. He tensed for a moment before a low growl rumbled from his chest, and then he took control. Killian kissed me like he owned me. Like he was branding me with every stroke of his tongue, every possessive bite against my lips. His hands roamed, gripping my waist and pulling me flush against him until there was no space left between us. Heat curled in my stomach, spreading like wildfire as his kiss deepened, demanding submission. But I wasn''t as passive or shy as I used to be. I met him with the same fervor, tangling my fingers in his thick, dark hair and tugging hard. He groaned, his grip tightening as he pressed me into the bed, hovering over me like a predator savoring its prey. "You''re getting bolder, my little wolf," he murmured, dragging his lips down my throat, marking me with his tongue. ¡°I like it." "Then shut up and kiss me," I breathed. A dark chuckle escaped him before he obeyed, resuming where we left off. The world beyond this room ceased to exist. There was only him, his heat, scent, the hunger in his touch. I would indulge in this for as long as my feelings for him continued to grow. Killian didn''t need to know. Not yet. Chapter 84 Chapter 84: You''re Mine Killian''s POV The air reeked of burning flesh and blood. Smoke billowed across the battlefield like a dreadful specter, rising from the charred ruins that were once the Southern Kingdom. Corpses littered the scorched earth, warriors reduced to lifeless husks in a battle that never had a chance of victory. And in the midst of it all, I stood as the victor. My foot rested on Vandern''s corpse, his head twisted at a fatal angle, crimson blood still seeping from the gaping wound in his chest. That fool had considered himself my equal, had dared to threaten what was mine, believing he could im Ruby as an act of revenge. That was his final mistake. This is the price of defying me three times. "I don''t understand why you ever thought you could defeat me." I shook my head. "I was even willing to show mercy and forge a new alliance. It would have benefited us both far more than senseless bloodshed." I took a deep breath, the thick scent of smoke and blood mingling with the taste of my cigar. ¡°And do you know who suggested that? The very woman you sought to take. How noble of her." "But of course, you''re just like the rest ungrateful swine." My kingdom had expanded once again. The Southern Kingdom was no more. Itsnds, its riches, and its people were now mine. I had no intention of seizing another territory. Unfortunately, circumstances forced my hand. I always knew after Lucius, then next target is Vandem would meet his end one day, in one way or another. But I never imagined it woulde to this. My rage had been uncontroble when Ruby was nearly abducted by that wretched kingdom. "May we meet again in Hell, Lucius." A shortugh escaped my lips. "Ah, I almost forgot. We will never meet. I am eternal in this world.¡± The soft crunch of boots against gravel snapped me out of my thoughts, announcing the arrival of Leonidas. His attire, like mine, was stained with blood that did not belong to him, his expression a mix of solemnity and triumph. "It is done, Your Majesty," he reported. "Everyst threat has been eliminated. Without exception, this is all ours now. We may return to the kingdom." The idea of returning didn''t immediately elicit a response from me. I had seen Ruby''s reaction when she looked at me upon my return from battle. Her wide blue eyes filled with sorrow. There was no trace of pride in them. Her paranoia made everything feel like a march toward the afterlife. She hated seeing me covered in blood and thought of me as fragile as a porcin vase, ready to shatter at any moment. Ruby forgot who I truly was whenever she entered her frantic panic mode. I could tolerate the fear of my enemies, but not her sorrow. Ruby had once seen me as a monster. I would not let her see me that way now. Somehow, at some point, her opinion had be important to me. Perhaps since I epted that deal. "No," I refused, flicking my cigar from my fingers and grinding it under my boot. "You go home first. There''s something I need to take care of." Leonidas frowned in confusion. "Is there something else that requires your attention? Do you need me to apany you, Your Majesty?" I waved my hand dismissively. "Just go with the others. Tell Ruby I''ll be back a littlete." "Understood, Your Majesty." With a signal to the remaining soldiers, they activated the portal and returned to my kingdom. I turned, my gaze locking onto a small vige near the southern border. A n was already forming in my mind. The inn reeked of fear the moment I stepped through the door. The innkeeper froze at the sight of me, his face turning deathly pale. The patrons, merchants and mercenaries alike immediately averted their gazes, their movements cautious if the slightest misstep would provoke my wrath. Smart. Sessfully unlocked! "Room," I ordered. "Y-Yes, my King," the innkeeper stammered, rushing to grab a key. In his haste, he nearly tripped over himself as he led me to my room. "I-Is there anything else you require?" "Just don''t disturb me." Chapter 84: You''re Mine I tossed a pouch of gold coins onto the counter, and the innkeeper''s jaw dropped. His eyes nearly bulged out of his head t the sight of the hefty sum. "Thank you, Your Majesty! You are most generous!" I didn''t offer any response and headed straight to my room. As soon as I was inside, I discarded my tattered clothes, washing away the remnants of battle. The water in the basin turned crimson, and though the deep wounds remained, they slowly closed, thanks to my powerful magic. Once i was clean, I put on the new clothes I had purchased simple yet fitting enough to avoid drawing unwanted attention. I would return to Ruby soon. On my way out of the vige, something unexpected caught my attention. A small flower stall stood between two buildings, its blooming flowers strikingly vivid against the war-torn gray backdrop. The air carried a mixture of floral scents, but what stood out to me was the fragrance of fresh roses and wild lcs. I had never given much thought to flowers, but I remembered how Ruby''s eyes softened whenever she looked at a garden, how her lips would curve into a beautiful smile. I wanted to see that again and I wanted to be the reason for it. Before I could think twice, my feet carried me forward. An old woman stood behind the stall, her age-worn eyes failing to dim the warmth of her demeanor. Something about her unsettled me. Florists were usually in their thirties or forties, at least. Pushing aside the unnecessary unease, I pointed to the roses sitting in the bucket. "I''ll take these." The woman smiled, revealing slightly crooked teeth. "A fine choice, my King." She wrapped them neatly in a bouquet of paper. As she handed them to me, her fingers brushed against mine, and for a brief moment, a strange sensation coursed through my veins. I frowned slightly before paying her. Elysian said nothing. Maybe I was just catching Ruby''s paranoia. "Safe travels, Your Majesty." I had barely taken ten steps before a sudden wave of dizziness struck me like a hammer. The world spun into an endless spiral. My limbs felt heavy, my vision dimmed. My breath grew shallow, and my body began to convulse. The horror of it was quickly reced by rage. Shit! My instincts had been right. That damned flower shop! I clenched my jaw, trying to regain control, but my legs gave out beneath me. My body copsed onto the cobbled street, the bouquet slipping from my grasp, scattering roses across the ground. Thest thing I heard was a chilling, high-pitchedugh and a voice dripping with terrifying satisfaction. "Finally, you are mine!" Subscribed Chapter 85 Chapter 85: The Witch and Her Stupidness Chapter 85: The Witch and Her Stupidness Killian''s POV The first thing I noticed was the bitter taste of pollen still clinging to my tongue. My body felt numb, and my head was heavier than it should have been. A fog clouded my mind, and for a moment, confusion gripped me like wild waves in the midst of a storm. Then, the memories fell back into ce. I had been on my way back from eradicating the remnants of Vandem''s the cursed kingdom. I had bought a bouquet of flowers for Ruby. And then... nothing. Thest thing I remembered was the overpowering, sweet scent of the flowers and a voice whispering words I couldn''t understand. I forced my eyes open, and what greeted me was not the familiar sight of my pce chambers but an old, decrepit house. The air was thick with dust, and the scent of both medicinal and rotting nts assaulted my senses. The wooden walls were starting to decay, and the flickering candlelight cast eerie shadows across the room. As I moved my body, I felt a strong grip on my hands and saw thick ropes glowing with embedded runes, binding me to a rusted iron chair. I burst intoughter. Did someone really think they could kidnap me? I didn''t know whether I should be angry or amused by this entire joke. I was a tyrant, for hell''s sake! I flexed my fingers, testing the strength of my restraints. The magic woven into thern bit into my skin, sizzling slightly against my power until it seared the outeryer of my epidermis. "Elysian, are you there?" And then, my wolf answered, "Yeah, though I''m a little shaken up here. Can''t you just use your magic? Those are just ordinary runes." "I''m trying," I grumbled. "What kind of lunatic thinks kidnapping a king is a good idea?" "Clearly, someone who doesn''t know you." "Who in this world doesn''t know me and my reputation?" Elysian sighed. "I''m still dizzy. Good luck, buddy." I cursed as my wolfpletely retreated into my inner world. How dare he rx and go to sleep while I was struggling to break free from these ridiculous ropes? A few momentster, the restraints started to weaken. I felt a surge of relief until a voice echoed through the room. "You''re awake." I lifted my gaze to see a hunched figure emerge, d in the same tattered cloak as that old flower vendor. But as they stepped closer, I could see it was merely a disguise. Their fingers twitched, and with a wave of their hand, the illusion melted away like wax. And there she stood. Alice. Lucius''s wife. A woman I had killed with my own hands. My crimson eyes widened slightly before sharpening like daggers. I clenched my teeth, hissing, "How are you alive?" Because it was impossible for a mortal who had died to return to life. No matter how powerful the magic. "I remember snapping your neck myself and hearing your final breath." Alice smiled, flicking her brown hair over her shoulder. "Surprised?" "Annoyed," I corrected, my voice as cold as steel. "I have no interest in entertaining ghosts. Especially pathetic ones like you." Herughter was light, airy, as if I had just told the most charming joke. "Oh, Killian, you wound me. But I''m very much alive. Look!" Her fingers danced in the air, and an unseen force pressed against my chest. "Ah, you really thought I was just a weak little Queen? How cruel of you." "You are weak, bitch," I growled. "And now, you''re also a fool. You think you can kidnap me? Is your brain as rotten as your husband''s?" I stretched against the ropes again, the magic Sessfully unlocked!ength. "Tell me, how are you standing here, breathing, when you should be rotting underground?? Alice''s smile stretched wider than before, so much so that I thought it might tear apart at any moment. She took a step closer, her eyes brimming with longing so much that it made me sick. "I was never like the rest of you, my dear Killian." She tilted her head, confessing with a soft hum. "I was born a witch long Chapter 25: The Witch and Her Stupidness before I became the Queen of the North. My beloved Lucius thought he controlled me, but that fool never realized it was who controlled him." Alice let out a breathless, almost deliriousugh. "And you, Killian... you were supposed to be mine." I sneered, "In your wildest and most delusional dreams." Her face twisted in fury before she quickly smoothed it over. She stepped even closer, reaching out to caress my cheek. I had to restrain the urge to tear her apart. "Why?" she whispered, feigning sorrow in her voice. "Why did you choose her? That pathetic little Luna?" "She''s nothingpared to me!¡± A cold, sharp fury burned in my chest the moment Ruby''s name left her lips. Alice''s eyes flickered with something unhinged. "But it''s fine. Now that Lucius is gone, you and I can finally-" I didn''t let her finish. The moment she leaned in, I took the chance and mmed my forehead against her face hard. Alice shrieked, stumbling backward, clutching her face as blood dripped from her nose. Her cry twisted into something monstrous as her fingers contorted into ws and her face warped into something hideous once more. How far had this bitch fallen into forbidden magic?! "You should have stayed dead, dear Alice, I growled, using the moment of distraction to push my power outward. My teeth clenched as the magic in the ropes burned deeper into my flesh until they finally snapped. "Well, I suppose it''s time to bury you in the ground again." Alice hissed, hurling an arc of magic toward me. Unfortunately for her, she wasn''t fast enough. I was already upon her, my hand wrapping around her throat and lifting her off the ground as she wed at my wrist. "How disappointing. I expected something far more spectacr from you after revealing yourself as a witch." She tried to speak, but no sound came out. Her nails dug into my skin, and I only chuckled darkly, amused. Slowly, the life drained from her eyes, and with onest pitiful breath, her body went limp. "Go join your husband in hell, Alice." I released her, letting her lifeless body slump to the floor. The remnants of that pathetic battle left nothing but silence. Then, irritation settled in. "Well, that was a fucking inconvenience." My gaze swept across the room, disgust curling at my lips. This entire ce reeked of filth, magic, and failed delusions. I had no desire to linger here any longer than necessary. With a snap of my fingers, fire erupted from my palm. I hurled it at Alice''s corpse, watching as the mes immediately caught, devouring everything in their path. I turned on my heel, stepping out just as the house was consumed by fire behind me. The cold night air greeted me, the moon watching as if entertained by the spectacle. I exhaled, releasing the tension from my shoulders. One pest sessfully eradicated. Now, onto the next problem. I caught the scent of blood again and nced down at myself. Fuck. With a sigh, I made my way back to the inn. The innkeeper nearly fainted upon seeing me in the exact same state I had arrived in. After washing up, I leaned back against the bathtub, running a hand through my damp hair. What the fuck was happening to me? I had conquered kingdoms, ughtered thousands, and yet... I had just burned an entire house to the ground because a dead woman had insulted Ruby. Not only that, but I had scorched another kingdom''snd. Though, to be fair, they had pissed me off long before Ruby ever came into the picture. I clicked my tongue. Now, how should I convince that woman not to sulk? Otherwise, I wouldn''t be able to fuck her senseless tonight. I needed a gift. Something else to bring back to her besides bloodshed. Maybe no flowers this time. At least, not from another witch. Chapter 86 Chapter 86: Meet the Evil Woman Chapter 86: Meet the Evil Woman Ruby''s POV "Why hasn''t he returned yet?" My anxiety grew even stronger when I heard that Killian''s troops had returned early since yesterday. Yet, their king still hadn'' t shown his face. I knew that worrying about a tyrant with extraordinary power sounded ridiculous. But not to me. I was worried about him. It didn''t matter that our rtionship was merely contractual, Leia''s voice rang in my head, "Can you calm down a little bit? I''m starting to get dizzy here!" "Don''t bother me! I have something to worry about!" "That''s exactly what I''m saying." Leia''s voice rose in frustration. "That man is surely fine. We''d be better off enjoying the beauty treatment Beatrice offered us." "You''re not helping at all, Leia." "Exactly." I let out a breath, trying to stay patient with my wolf. Ignoring all her chatter, I quickened my pace. Here I was, searching for Leonidas for over twenty minutes, and when I finally found him in the soldiers'' barracks, he stood among his men, arms crossed, looking as arrogant as ever. Amara trailed behind me, her breathing in short gasps as she struggled to keep up. I needed answers. "Ah, Luna Ruby." Leonidas greeted me with a teasing smirk, his sharp eyes gleaming with mischief. "To what do I owe this surprise visit? Have you missed me?" I rolled my eyes, ignoring his yful tone. "Where is he, your king? He hasn''t returned, and I want to know why." Leonidas chuckled, shaking his head. "So impatient. But don''t worry, Your Highness, your beloved tyrant will be back soon. His business took longer than expected, but he''ll return." His words were meant to reassure me, yet instead, they only made me more uneasy. "What business?" Leonidas raised an eyebrow and shrugged. "You know him. If he wants you to know, he''ll tell you himself." I sighed, crossing my arms over my chest. "That''s the problem. He hasn''t told me anything until now," I snapped. Leonidasughed, leaning slightly closer to me. "You know, you''ve changed, Luna. A few weeks ago, you said your rtionship was just a contract. But look at you now." His eyes yfully trailed over me from head to toe. "Storming into the barracks, demanding answers. Should I let Killian know that you miss him so much, Luna Ruby?" Heat rushed to my face. "I-I was just asking! Stop twisting things around!" Leonidas only grinned, clearly enjoying my difort. "Of course, dear Luna. Just asking," he replied shamelessly. This is why meeting this one-eyed Beta was always myst resort. Leonidas had a way of lighting the fuse of my emotions. I wondered what the punishment would be for someone who killed a royal Beta. Feeling restless, I decided to change the topic before he could tease me any further. "What about the ves? Where were they taken?" Leonidas straightened up, his cheerful expression dimming slightly. "They were relocated to a special vil'' rehabilitation. Many of them will be employed to rebuild what was destroyed in their lives." ? designed for I frowned in confusion. That seemed surprisingly generous for a kingdom ruled by a dictator. For a moment, I suspected it might be a trick. But Leonidas wouldn''t dare lie to me, knowing that I would surely ask Killian. "Some will work in noble households, while others will be given different responsibilities," he added. My mind immediately went to one person. I hesitated before asking, "And Dominic? Where is he?" "Did you just express concern for the man who Sessfully unlocked! Startled by his question, I quickly shook my head. "Of course not! I''m just curious, Leonidas." He gave me a strange look before replying. "That man is where he belongs. He will serve as a royal ve, stationed at the Chapter 86: Meet the Evil Woman outskirts of the pce, performing cleaning duties. That''s all he can do for now." "Was that a direct order from Killian?" Leonidas raised an eyebrow. "Yeah. He always likes to keep his new toys close." I grimaced. I didn''t want to think about it, let alone try to understand Killian''s intentions. He was probably going this far because Dominic had always been insolent and even dared to spy on his kingdom. Killian was still furious. Leonidas studied me for a moment before shaking his head. "You''re too kind sometimes, Luna." I wasn''t sure if that was apliment or an insult. I shrugged indifferently and pulled myself away. "Curiosity doesn''t mean I care," I said. "I think it still means something, Luna." "Assume whatever you want, Leonidas." On the way back to the pce, I let out a sigh, feeling more exhausted than I should. I thought I might need a bathter. "Amara, prepare my clothes for a bath tonight," I ordered gently.. "Of course, Luna," she responded enthusiastically. "You deserve some rxation after dealing with that Beta. He seems to enjoy provoking you!" I scoffed. "Please, I don''t understand why he insists on making me the target of his jokes either." "Does he like you?" Amara asked innocently. "OF COURSE NOT! Don''t make weird spections, Amara!" I shuddered at the mere thought of it bing a reality. Thankfully, it wasn''t. From what I had heard, that man was a flirt and a notorious yboy despite his strict military demeanor. Pressing the bridge of my nose, I hoped that a warm bath would soothe my tense nerves. But before that, I needed some fresh air. The pce could feel suffocating at times. So, I parted ways with Amara and made my way toward my favorite garden for a stroll. As I stepped into the area, I was immediately greeted by a breathtaking disy of vibrant colors. My lips curled into a smile of delight. But the peace didn''tst long. "Oh, so this is the king''s new pet," a voice sneered. I turned to see a woman standing on the pathway, her arms crossed, her gaze dripping with disgust. I had never seen her before, but something about her expression told me she had been waiting for this encounter. "Pardon me,¡± I responded as politely as possible, refusing to be provoked by her insult. "I don''t believe we''ve met. I''m still new here." She smirked, tilting her head. "Oh, we haven''t. But I''ve heard all about you. I''m Daphne. Killian''s cousin." Killian''s cousin? Seriously? That was strange. That man was older than my ancestors themselves. If he had a cousin, shouldn''t they already be nothing but a headstone by now? I stiffened as the woman, Daphne stepped closer, her eyes filled with barely concealed contempt. "What''s your secret to catching Killian''s attention? Did you use magic? A lowly creature," she spat. I narrowed my eyes. "Excuse me?" * my dear cousin. "You heard me," she said, flicking her hair over her shoulder. "I dared to return here after being exiled, al. You may have fooled him, but not me. You''re just another power-hungry woman, clinging to him like a leech!" Anger burned beneath my skin, and my tone instantly turned cold. "I have no interest in power, Lady Daphne. And really, is this how a cousin of the King should behave? You seem tock any manners." That immediately shattered her facade. Her face flushed red like moltenva, and her eyebrows shot up in rage. "Watch your mouth, you miserable bitch!" A hand rose in the air, only to be caught by another one muchrger. My eyes widened as I saw the figure standing right behind Daphne. "You seem awfully eager to throw your life away, Daphne." 23 Chapter 87 Chapter 87: Protective Tyran Defends Me Chapter 87: Protective Tyran Defends Me Ruby''s POV *KILLIAN?! "You still have time to be surprised? Impressive." just- Daphne dared not continue her sentence when those crimson eyes turned into cold, emotionless voids. "I warned you, Daphne Marjorie. And yet, you still dare set your foot here?" Killian asked angrily. "I had no other choice! You never responded to any of my letters, Killian!" "A pathetic excuse!" I watched as Killian tightened his grip around Daphne''s wrist, a low growl escaping him. His menacing aura sent chills down my spine. This wasn''t the Killian I hade to know-the one who teased me, who held me with that possessive tendernesstely. No, this was the real Killian Rudwick, the ruthless tyrant behind the mask, the monster lurking beneath the surface. Daphne trembled, her face contorted in pain. "Killian, please! I just wanted to see you!" "And you''ve practically signed your own death warrant by doing so," Killian replied, his tone dripping with venom. I clenched my fists, unsure of what to do in this tense situation. Killian''s stance was a clear warning for me to stay back. Daphne kept pleading, but he ignored her. "Answer me honestly, Daphne. How did you get here? You were permanently exiled." I was shocked to hear that. That meant Daphne didn''t live here. But what confused me even more was their rtionship. Killian seemed to loathe her, yet Daphne had implied that he once cared for her. The reality was theplete opposite. Daphne struggled against his grip. "No one helped me! I came here on my own!" Killian''s expression darkened. "Lying doesn''t suit you, girl." With a flick of his wrist, a sickening crack echoed through the garden. Daphne screamed, copsing to the ground, clutching her now-broken arm. My breath caught in my throat. My stomach twisted at the sheer cruelty of his actions. "Killian!" I instinctively stepped forward, every fiber of my being screaming at me to do something. "You broke her arm!" "She deserves worse," he said coldly, as if what he had done was nothing more than a minor inconvenience. "Should I break both of your legs too, so you finally understand? I''m sure your parents would love taking care of their ''obedient'' little girl forever." Daphne sobbed in pain, curling up on the ground. "You''re cruel! I only wanted to be near you!" "In your delusions, kid," Killian growled in irritation and turned to the approaching guards. "Take her to the dungeon. I want Leonidas to investigate who allowed this filth past the gates. If I find out someone epted a bribe, they''ll suffer a fate worse than hers." The guards obeyed hismand without hesitation, moving forward and yanking Daphne to her feet. Her cries echoed as she was dragged away. I watched the scene unfold in horror. A cold sweat threatened to creep down my spine. "Killian," I stammered, turning to fully face him. "That was-" Before I could finish, he casually handed me a bucket of flowers, as if what had just happened was nothing more than snapping a twig. I blinked, my jaw dropping. "What...?" "I waste because of a minor issue," he said simply, grabbing one of my hands and forcing the bouquet into my grasp. "I thought I''d bring you something." I stared at him, my mind still reeling from everything that had just happened. "You''re giving me flowers?" I exhaled sharply, setting the flowers down and stepping closer, anger bubbling beneath my skin. I appreciated his thoughtfulness, remembering that I had been waiting for him toe home and trying to make up for it with this sweet little gesture. But I couldn''t ignore the way he had Sessfully unlocked! "I''m sorry if this sounds harsh to you, but Killian, you can''t just hurt people like that! She''s your cousin!" He raised an eyebrow. "Why not? She hurt you." "Even so-" Chapter 87: Protective Tyran Defends Me "It''s my right, Ruby." He crossed his arms,pletely unfazed by my anger. "Cousin or not, she has crossed the line too many times. Or have you already forgotten how I told you she insulted you? How she''s obsessed with me like some deranged animal?" My mouth was open, ready to argue, but nothing came out. I remembered everything clearly. At that moment, I was surprised that Killian was willing to open up to me, even when I hadn''t asked. He told me that there was a family member who was insane and always obsessed with him. That eternal king never revealed their identity in detail, which only made me more curious. On top of that, that person constantly mocked and insulted me. Now, I couldn''t help but feel guilty for Killian. Yet, at the same time, I also felt a sliver of sympathy for his cousin. "I''m sorry." I bit my lip, lowering my head. "From my perspective, it still feels wrong. No matter how terrible he is, he''s still your family. But, I understand your actions, Killian." "You still care about him, even after he trampled on your dignity?" I shifted ufortably. "Yes, it doesn''t matter to me." Killian ran a hand down his face, shaking his head in disbelief. "You''re too soft for your own good, Ruby." He raised his hand, gently cupping my face. The contrast between how he treated Daphne and how he was handling me now was striking. His thumb brushed my cheek, and those crimson eyes of his held a rare, tender concern. "Don''t apologize so often," he said softly. "Especially not for someone who doesn''t deserve it. But you need to understand, Ruby. I am who I am. I have no patience for those who don''t respect what''s mine." My breath hitched. "What''s yours?" His fingers traced along my jaw, then slid down to rest against my corbone. "You." The possessiveness in his voice sent a shiver through me. He was stating a fact. Was this the answer to all my feelings for him? And despite everything, my anger, my frustration, my confusion. I could no longer deny the way my heart pounded at his words. "Thank you, Killian." I swallowed hard, my gaze flickering downward in sadness. "I shouldn''t haveshed out at you." He scoffed. "You were just being yourself. It''s incredibly annoying." I rolled my eyes. Before I could retort, he pulled me into his arms, holding me tightly against his chest. I felt the tension in his muscles. I knew why. Killian wasn''t the type to express his emotions openly. With me, he seemed to be trying even if it was in his own cruel, violent way. I knew I couldn''t change him, and strangely, I didn''t think I wanted to. Slowly, my arms wrapped around him, my cheek resting against his chest. "I just... I don''t want you to lose yourself, Killian." His fingersbed through my hair, his lips pressing a kiss to the top of my head. "I already have, little wolf. But if I ever get lost, you''re the only one who can hold me back." "Am I capable of doing that, Killian?" "Yes." Subscribed Chapter 88 Killian''s POV The room was bathed in moonlight, casting silver streaks on Ruby''s sleeping face. She looked peaceful, her breathing slow and regr, her delicate fingers curled slightly on the pillow. I traced the lines of her cheeks with my eyes, immortalizing them in memory. Seeing her like this, so innocent and untouched by the weight that constantly threatened to crush her was something I thought I would cherish forever. I recalled the incident that had just happened. Automatically a rumbling growl escaped my throat. Ruby made a small, ufortable sound, and it was me who realized it soothed her. "I''m sorry, love." My thumb gently stroked her cheek. "I didn''t mean to disturb your sleep." As if hearing my words, the beautiful little wolf followed the direction of the source of warmth from my hand and leaned her face against my arm. She purred like a furry creature that had finally found the mostfortable nest. I chuckled, "You really are my undoing, aren''t you?" "Never once did I think to set aside this sense of caring let alone tenderness. I didn''t even know that I had it." Elysian''s voice buzzed in agreement with my statement, continuing, "You know, my dear. People think that it was fate that destined me to be forever lonely in eternity. But in fact, no." "I am the one who chose that loneliness." Something unfamiliar burst into my chest. "I don''t care about that when I can gain the strength and power I had dreamed of until..." I couldn''t finish my words. I chose to say it with a kiss. It was without lust and passion at all. Just gentleness and a sense of protection. My eyelids opened, my gaze instinctively softened for her. *As long as you are bound to me. I promise I will give anything for you as long as," I paused, our foreheadsing together. "You always stay by my side. Can you do that for me, Ruby?" A soft sigh escaped my lips as I forced myself up from Ruby''s bedside. Although I wanted to stay a little longer. There were a few things to take care of, starting with a very persistent cockroach. I pulled back the nket to cover the peeking parts of her naked body. Giving the top of her head onest kiss, I leave the warmth of my women''s room. "Killian, you''re too soft now." I was clearly not pleased with Elysian''s statement. "Don''t make new trouble with me, El. Wouldn''t you be happy if I was able to be loving to Ruby?" I asked sharply. "Not to my beloved. But, Daphne." "You mean?" Elysian exhaled through our link. "Normally you would take action on the third warning from the offender. Now, you''re still letting her live." "Ruby doesn''t like me killing her. You''ve heard that before." "Just do it behind her back!" Elysian hissed. I didn''t give any response. Indeed, it was easy to do so without Ruby seeing. However, there was a sense of ufortable. It was like betraying her trust. So, I brainstormed ways to give Daphne the punishment she deserved for her grave transgression. The moment I reached the throne room, the stench of despair had filled the air. Daphne''s wailing had subsided to a pitiful moan, her arms still twisted unnaturally from my previous punishment. She was kneeling now, her once proud face streaked with tears, her golden hair disheveled beyond recognition. And in front of me, kneeling just as pitifully, were her parents. "Please, Your Majesty," her father pleaded, his forehead pressed against the cold stone floor. "She is my ughter. Have mercy on her!" "Mercy?" I echoed, letting the word slide off my tongue in amusement. "And why should I give mercy to a woman who crept back into my kingdom after I explicitly banished her? Tell me, Lord Marjorie, what should be done to the traitor in my court?" He swallowed hard, his face pale. "He is despe Sessfully unlocked! vay." vay." "Oh, she''s lost her way?" I chuckled, stepping downy can using the distance between us with slow, measured steps. "You mean your daughter bribed her way in, defied my orders, insulted my women, and conspired against me?" Daphne flinched at my words, her good hand clutching her broken arm. "It''s not like that, Killian-" Chapter Loneliness My boot pressed down on her shoulder, forcing her back to the ground. "You can''t say my name, Daphne. You lost that right the moment you set foot in my territory after i banished you" Her mother sobbed. "Please, Killian. She''s still your cousin!" Iughed dryly. "Cousin? Family? Don''t make me sick. You think blood entitles you to my patience? To my good intentions?" I squatted in front of Daphne, gripping her chin between my fingers, forcing her to look me in the eye. "I don''t keep useless things, Daphne. And you, my dear, have be very, very useless." She trembled under my grip, her lips clenching as if to argue. Tears streamed down her face. I straightened up and turned to my bodyguard. "Take her away to the ind of exile. This time, make sure she never sets foot in my kingdom again. If she returns, kill her on sight." "No! No, please!" Daphne screamed as the guards caught her arm and dragged her away, her cries bouncing off the high walls of the room. Her parents continued to plead, their hands gripping my legs, but I simply stepped over them as if they were nothing more than debris in my path. "You have two choices," I said without looking at them. "Follow your daughter''s disgrace into exile, or stay behind and ept that she no longer exists." Silence stretched between us, punctuated only by the sound of Daphne''s distant screams fading into the night. I already knew what they would choose. Power and privilege were more important than blood and sentiment. They will stay. I smirked and turned to leave. "Get out of my sight. You bore me." As they rushed out frantically from the throne room, I exhaled roughly, releasing the tension from my shoulders. It was already done. Daphne was gone. And with her, thest nuisance of my so-called family. Thus, Ruby wouldn''t be angry with me because I didn''tmit murder to solve the problem this time. "What time is it, Leonidas?" Leonidas came forward, bowing his body. "Estimated around three in the morning. You still have plenty of time before the meeting with our allies." "Very well. Go back to rest, Leonidas. It''s been a long day," I said. "Thank you for your kindness, Your Majesty." I stepped down from my throne. I would soon return to Ruby. The only person whose presence I wanted and somehow, against all odds, she managed to carve out a ce in the void where my heart should be. A tyrant deserves a little happiness, right? Subscribed 0 Likes Chapter 89 Chapter 89: Pregnant Ruby''s POV The stack of parchments before me seemed endless, stretching like an immeasurable mountain. I let out a deep sigh, dipping my pen into the inkwell as I forced myself to focus. The sooner I finished, the sooner I could escape to the piano. My fingers were already itching to y something soothing, something that would pull me away from all things political and the never-ending documents required to maintain The Winterdawn Pack. "One day, we''re going to die'' buried under that mountain of paper," Leia grumbled. "Got any better ideas? I''m the only living Lucienne." I rubbed my temples, pressing a little harder than necessary. Then, I added, "Maybe I should start searching for any close rtives of the Lucienne line. But my parents always lived with their family within the same pack." "Why don''t you ask Killian for help? He''d surely assist you if you truly wanted to know," Leia suggested. Biting the inside of my cheek, I considered it. "I''ll think about it." Just as I was about to sign another document, the door creaked open, and in walked Leonidas, wearing his signature smirk. "Working hard, Luna? Or are you just pretending so you don''t have to miss the King?" he asked, his voice dripping with feigned indifference. I shot him an unimpressed look. "If you think I''d rather be doing this than spending time with Killian, you''re seriously overestimating my love for administrative work." Leonidas chuckled, dragging a chair over and sitting across from me. "Well, Ie bearing news. The King will be homete. There''s trouble at the border, apparently. Which means you''ll have to suffer through this stack of documents without... let''s say, his creative distractions." I fought the heat threatening to rise to my cheeks and turned my attention back to the parchment in my hand. "I suppose I should be grateful," I muttered, recalling that particr memory with a scowl. "Thest time he tried to help, he threw half the documents into the fire, and I had to start all over again. What a wonderful king you have, huh?" Leonidas stifled augh. "Sounds about right." I tapped the quill against my chin. Killian would be homete, and all this work already felt like a death trap to me. Leias, my wolf, was also at her peak stress level. And I wasn''t doing any better. "Maybe I should visit Nora. I haven''t seen her in a while," I said suddenly. Leonidas raised an eyebrow. "Ah, the famous great witch. The one who threatened to curse mest time?" "You probably deserved it," I replied with a smirk. "Would you be willing to apany me?" Leonidas groaned, shaking his head. "If I refuse, you''ll go alone, which will only make the King furious. So fine, let''s go before I regret this." I couldn''t hold back myughter at his smallint. Standing up, I set the quill back down and stretched my muscles. "You''re a good man, Leonidas. I''ll make sure Nora doesn''t curse you. Too much." ### The magic tower loomed before us, a spiraling structure made of dark stone, with glowing runes embedded in its walls. As we stepped inside, the air was thick with the scent of herbs, incense, and something faintly resembling raw natural energy. And there, standing near a bubbling cauldron, was Nora Lee looking as though she was barely restraining her emotions as she guided a young witch-in-training. She hadn''t changed one bit, her wild blonde hair cascaded down her back in unruly waves, her sharp emerald eyes gleamed with mischief, and that ever- present yful smirk promised nothing but trouble. She turned at the sound of our entrance, her expression shifting from curious to delighted. "Well, well, look who finally decided to pay me a visit. And she even brought along the wicked Beta." Nora ze flickered toward Leonidas, who, to my amusement, looked utterly bewildered. I rolled my eyes. "Nice to see you too, Nora." She grinned, tossing a handful of dried flower petals into the cauldron, turning the potion inside a deep shade of blue. The young witch nodded quickly as Nora gave firm instructions, correcting heroinor mistakes. "You should visit more often. But I suppose yo Sessfully unlocked! orite," Nora remarked bluntly. Leonidas choked on nothing. "I don''t think that''s her official title." "Oh, hush," Nora teased. "You''re just mad because you can''t boss Ruby around the way you do Killian''s other men." Chapter 89: Pregnant "You have no idea how much I suffer," Leonidas replied dramatically. Nora and Leonidas quickly became engrossed in their conversation. I frowned, I caught snippets of teasing and subtle, seductive flirtation woven into their words. My eyes widened as the implications dawned on me. No, that was an entirely bad idea. If they were this obvious about their mutual attraction, things were bound to escte. The big question was whether either of them would drop their bad habits. They were both yers. I was just about to interrupt their conversation when, all of a sudden, a wave of dizziness crashed over me. The room tited slightly, and I wobbled on my feet. "Ruby?" Nora was at my side in an instant, steadying me with a firm grip. "Goodness, you look a bit pale. Have you been feeling unwell this whole time?" "I don''t know... I just feel dizzy. And nauseous." Nora frowned. "Alright, that''s enough. You need to rest. Come with me." Leonidas moved to help, but Nora shot him a look. "You stay here. I don''t need your useless assistance while I examine her." Leonidas raised his hands in surrender. ¡°Fine. But if she passes out, I''m ming you." I sat in a plush chair inside Nora''s private chamber as she pressed her cool hand against my forehead. The witch began chanting a spell to examine me. Slowly, her expression shifted into something unreadable as she murmured incantations under her breath. Then, she fell silent. All color drained from her face. creeping sense of dread settled in my chest. I swallowed hard. "N-Nora? What is it?" She lifted her gaze to mine, disbelief written all over her face. "Ruby... you''re pregnant." The world stopped. Everything around me faded until nothing remained except the thunderous pounding of my own heartbeat in my chest. "I... what?" Nora shook her head, stumbling back. Her hand flew to cover her mouth, her shoulders trembling. Instead of answering my flood of questions, the response I got from her was pure fury. "Ruby Lucienne. Who is the father?" Subscribed Chapter 90 Chapter 90: A Time Bomb Ruby''s POV "You don''t want to answer?" As Nora''s spell sealed the room in absolute silence, she turned to me, her emerald eyes zing with furious wrath. "Or was my guess correct?" she snapped. "I don''t know, Nora." "WHICH PART DO YOU NOT KNOW, RUBY LUCIENNE?!" Her arms were crossed, her chest rising and falling rapidly as she seethed with anger. "You did it, and now you''re acting as if you''ve forgotten? For the seventh hell''s sake!" I couldn''t answer. My mouth opened, but no sound came out. My hands trembled as I ced them over my stomach, as if confirming what Nora had just told me. Anyone besides Nora would have already known the identity of the father of this unborn child. Killian Rudwick. "Say something,¡± Nora demanded, pacing back and forth in front of me. "Please, I''m going insane here!" "GODDAMNIT, LUNA!" I jolted backward, shaking my head frantically. ¡°I¡ªI''m sorry, Nora. That''s not what I meant. I just... I don''t know what to say." "How about you start with the prologue of this terrible story?" she shot back, her voice sharp. "You know exactly how it happened!" I snapped without thinking, pressing my trembling fingers to my lips. "Oh, my moon goddess!" My breath came in short gasps, my heart pounding against my ribs. "Nora, he''s going to kill me!" Nora''s anger twisted into coll & "Who? Killian? Why would he want to kill you?" "Because he hates children!" I sobbed. "He never wanted them, never even mentioned them. We had an agreement, and this... this was never part of it!" My voice cracked as my vision blurred. "What if he thinks I did this on purpose? What if he thinks I nned this to trap him?" Nora stared at me, her expression dark and stormy. The witch''s fury swelled even greater than before. My eyes widened as I felt her magic surge through the room, shattering small objects around us. I screamed, mping my hands over my ears. I begged her to stop, until finally, the wild magic began to fade. She copsed into a chair, exhaustion carved into her features. "Things like this shouldn''t happen. You just escaped your own hell, Ruby." "I never meant for this to happen either, Nora. It''s all beyond my control," I choked out, sobbing. Silence filled the room. Nora buried her face in her hands, stifling a frustrated scream. Tears streamed down my cheeks. I felt quilty-toward her and toward myself. I should have been more careful! Now, I was carrying a living soul inside me. I was happy to be a mother again, but not like this. Not this way. What confused me the most was that I hadn''t noticed any signs of pregnancy until today''s visit. It was strange. Unlike the first time I carried Alicia, myte daughter. And yet, it would have been a disaster if those signs had appeared while I was there. Too many eyes watched-some even from the walls. "Ruby,¡± Nora rasped, her voice hoarse. "That bastard may not have a heart, but you still have to tell him." A cold shiver crawled down my spine. Horrifying memories surfaced in my mind. Instinctively, I wrapped my arms protectively around my stomach. "No. No way, Nora." Nora''s eyes red. "What do you mean, Ruby?!" "I''m scared, Nora!" "Then I''ll do it for you." "Nora, please! Don''t!" I got out of bed and grabbed her hand. "I can''t tes Sessfully unlocked! now how I feel about this! Just now, I was finally starting to understand what I felt for him., and now h My breath came in ragged gasps, my entire body trembling. "It''s too much!" Nora sighed, rubbing her throbbing temples. "If you''re not ready to tell him, then you need to figure out what you''re going to do. You can''t hide it forever." Chapter 90 A Tyre Bare She hesitated, then looked at me seriously. "Unless you''re thinking of getting nd of ** "No" The word tore from my throat before I even had the chance to think. 1 would never do the "Then do you have any other reasonable solution besides those two? Think about the snapped My sobs grew louder. Meanwhile, Nora wrestled with her frustration. She ran her fingers through her hair, then banged her head against the table "Alright, alright." She raised a hand in surrender." didn''t mean to be harsh. You''re my friend, my only one, and I already see you as family. This news hit me so hard I feel like my head''s going to explode. But you have to tell him. It''s the best solution? I copsed back onto the bed, rubbing my tear streaked eyes. Of course, I was considering a third option, one that had only just crossed my mind. Running away. But that was an impossible n. Killian would find me, even if I fed to the ends of the earth. "I need time," I answered weakly. Nora let out a long sigh before getting up from her spot and copsing into the chair beside me "God, I need a drink. She pinched the bridge of her nose. ¡°I never imagined you''d be the one to get knocked up by a tyrant, but here we are." I let out a short, humorlessugh. "Me neither." *And you still have the nerve tough? You''ve got some guts," she scoffed. A knock on the door made my heart nearly stop. Nora and I exchanged nces before she whispered a quick incantation, dispelling the silence that had cloaked the room "You two have been in there for a while, Leonidas'' voice called from outside. "You''re not killing each other, are you?" Nora rolled her eyes before standing up and casting me a nce. With a flick of her hand, the soundproofing spell lifted. She whispered, "Fix your face. He''ll know something''s wrong." I took a deep breath and straightened myself up, forcing my expression into something as neutral as possible. Then, with onest nce at Nora, I opened the door. Leonidas was leaning against the wall, his signature smirk still in ce. "That took a while. Are you sick?" "Just a little exhausted. Ruby and I had something to discuss, Nora replied smoothly before giving me a pointed look." Something very important." Leonidas eyed us but didn''t press further. "Alright, are we heading back, or are you two nning another secret meeting?" I managed a weak smile. ¡°We can go back now." Leonidas offered me his arm, and I took it. Nora waved her hand with her signature smile, but I could see the worry reflected in her emerald eyes. I shook my head as if to say, "I can handle this.* In truth, I couldn''t. Not at all. As we walked back to the pce, a deep unease settled in my stomach. How much longer could I keep this a secret? Subscribed Chapter 91 Chapter91 Suspicious Chapter 91: Suspicious Ruby''s POV The clock in my room kept ticking relentlessly. It weighed on me like a thousand mountain stones, too heavy to bear. Ever since I returned from the magic tower, I had shut myself away within these walls, allowing only Amara to enter. I knew my behavior had started to draw attention. First from Beatrice, then Leonidas, and even the castle guards who were used to seeing me in the halls. But I couldn''t let them see me like this. Not when my world had changed so suddenly, so violently. 1 could barely endure it. I hadn''t even moved from my bed. Sitting still like a wax statue, my eyes empty. Amara, sweet and loyal as always, had taken it upon herself to make sure I didn''t neglect my basic needs. She helped me clean myself up, brought me food, coaxed me to take small bites, and made sure I drank my vitamins even when my stomach churned in protest. "Luna," Amara murmured as she set down a tray of warm broth and in bread. "You need to eat more than just a few bites. You''re pale enough to be mistaken for a ghost." "Forst time, I think you should stop calling me Luna. I''m not your Luna anymore, Amara," I told her softly. "Old habits die hard. And to me, you''ll always be Luna." She lifted a spoon, guiding it toward my lips. ¡°Come on, Luna. Open your mouth." I stared at the spoonful of broth and forced a small smile. In the end, I epted her offering, and a bright grin spread across her face. She fed me with gentle patience, and I almost felt embarrassed. I must have looked like a five-year-old. After that torturous meal, Amara studied me closely once more. "You''ve barely spoken since you came back. Are you feeling unwell, Luna?" Pain. The word stabbed through me, rattling my bones. If only it were that simple. "I''m just tired, Amara," I said, reaching for the ss of water on my nightstand and taking a sip. "You''re overreacting. I''ll be fine after I meet my pillow tonight." "You''re a terrible liar, Luna." Amara dropped herself onto the bed beside me, her voiceced with concern. "Something''s wrong, and if you don''t tell me, I''ll assume the worst." I turned away, focusing on the bright-colored bouquet beside my bed. How could I tell her? I was terrified. Even the thought of Killian finding out sent a shiver down my spine. Amara sighed, standing up and smoothing out her skirt. "I won''t force you to talk if you''re not ready. But please, whatever it is, don''t keep it bottled up. You have people who care about you." She reached out, giving my hand a gentle squeeze before stepping away. "Please, call me if you need anything, Luna." "Thank you for your concern, Amara. Go get some rest." The door closed behind her, leaving me alone with my thoughts. I sat in silence, my fingers trembling as I ced them over my stomach. A new soul was growing inside me. The fear was suffocating, yet beneath it, another emotion pulsed. It terrified me as much as it thrilled me. Love for the tiny, fragile being who knew nothing of the world it had been brought into. Love for the man whose presence had consumed my thoughts long before I even knew this life existed within me. But love was dangerous. Love had been used against me before. Could I survive if I let it take root again? A knock at the door startled me, jolting me from my thoughts. "Ruby." The deep,manding voice sent a shiver through my body. Killian. God, should I pretend to be asleep? No, bad idea. Killian would know Amara had just left my room. I took a deep breath, forcing myself to stand tall. My heart pounded as I adjusted the nket around me, trying topose my expression. "Come in," I said. The grand bedroom door swung open once more, and there he stood dressed in a simple ck tunic and matching trousers. Even in such casual attire, he looked every bit the ruthless, brutal king, painted in a way that was almost devastatingly beautiful. His crimson eyes swept over me, sharp and scrutinizing. "Why have you shut yourself away?" "I haven''t." I forced a small smile, sping my hands together to keep them from trembling. "I''ve just been busy with pack matters. Sometimes, it gets exhausting." Chapter 01 Suspicious He didn''t look convinced. Slowly, he stepped closer, his dominant presence filling the room in an instant. "Leonidas said you''ve barely left this room." I shrugged, hoping to appear indifferent. "I''m just in a bad mood." Killian tilted his head, his eyes narrowing as he studied me. Then, in one swift motion, he settled on the edge of the bed close enough that his scent, a mix of forest and spice, something uniquely his, wrapped around me. "Hmm, is that so?" His fingers brushed against my cheek, lifting my chin upward so I had no choice but to meet his gaze "Since when does my Ruby let something so trivial keep her away from me?" I swallowed hard, the warmth of his touch searing through me. "No one is tormenting you today," I replied tly, though my emotions were anything but steady. His lips curved into something between a smirk and a pout. "That''s the worst excuse I''ve ever heard" Before I could protest, his hands encircled my waist, effortlessly pulling me onto hisp. I gasped in surprise, my palms pressing against his chest, feeling the firm muscles beneath. "Killian-" "Shh." His fingers traced down my spine slow, deliberate, reverent. "I missed you, love." I stiffened. "You saw me in the morning, Killian." He chuckled, low and rich. "Oh, please. It will never be enough." My heart pounded, my thoughts tangled in the sensations of his touch. He always did this disarming me with a single caress, making me forget everything except him. His lips brushed against my ear, sensual and lingering. "Tell me what''s wrong, my love." I couldn''t. Even if I wanted to. Instead, I leaned forward, pressing my lips to his in a desperate attempt to silence the thoughts wing at my mind. His response was immediate; his grip tightened, his kiss deepened, iming me with a burning intensity that made my entire body ache. I let myself drown in him, pretending just for a moment that everything was okay. That he wouldn''t hate me when he finally learned the truth. Subscribed Chapter 92 Chapter 92. Search for Answers Chapter 92: Search for Answers Killian''s POV "Killian, I think my beautiful wolf is hiding something from us." I agreed with Elysian''s opinion. Something was wrong with Ruby. I could feel it in my bones. It started two days ago. She''s still like avoid me and isted. At first, I chose to ignore it because a woman often acts that way when she''s in a bad mood. But I wasn''t blind to her terrible ability to lie. She avoided me, locked herself in her room, and barely spoke unless necessary. Only my visits brought her back to normal-though something still felt off. Even her scent carried a faint trace of unease to my senses. I had seen her exhausted before, but never like this. And I didn''t like it one bit. "I already checked on her, and you know the result, El." Elysian snapped in frustration. "But that''s not enough! I can''t stand this change in her behavior. Does she not like us?!" "That''s impossible," I scoffed. I had been patient, waiting for her toe to me, to tell me what was wrong. But patience was not in my nature. So, I began my search. Beatrice was the first person I asked. The head maid''s face turned pale with worry as she told me that Ruby had been skipping meals and daydreaming more often. She had even stopped looking at the piano she loved so much. Then Amara, who was always by her side, confirmed that Ruby barely left her room and seemed burdened by something. Even Leonidas had noticed the change, but not even that bastard knew what was going on. I sat at my desk, staring at the pile of parchments before me, my frustration mounting. I was supposed to be reviewing reports and giving orders as usual, yet all I could think about was her. What was she hiding from me? A loud knock snapped me out of my thoughts, and Leonidas stepped in without waiting for permission, carrying yet another stack of parchments. "More reports, Your Majesty." I groaned. My My Burn them." Leonidas raised an amused eyebrow. "Tempting, but the kingdom might fall apart if I actually did that." "I don''t care right now." I leaned back in my chair, rolling my tense shoulders. "If another useless piece of papernds on my desk, I just might burn this entire pce down." He smirked and still dropped the parchment onto the growing pile. "You''re awfully restless... Trouble in paradise?" I red at him. "I don''t have time for your nonsense." "Ah, but you always make time for Ruby." Leonidas leaned against the desk, arms crossed. "If I didn''t know any better, I''d say you''re lovesick." I scowled. "She''s hiding something from me." Leonidas'' expression shifted slightly. "So you''ve noticed too?" "Don''t y dumb, Leonidas," I scoffed, clicking my tongue and shooting him a sharp re. ¡°You were one of the people I interrogated earlier." .He let out a frustrated sigh, the yful expression vanishing from his face. He looked at me, as if weighing something in his mind before finally dropping the bomb. "A few days ago, she asked me to apany her to the magic tower. She went to see Nora." Just hearing that name was enough to make my muscles tense. "For what? And why are you only telling me this now?!" I snapped. "It was just a routine visit, okay? And I was the one apanying her," he admitted, holding my gaze firmly when I looked ready to cut him off. "Then, all of a sudden, Ruby looked like she was in pain. Nora took her to her chambers and examined her. And ever since then, she''s been acting strange." I clenched my jaw. Nora. That damn witch. Sessfully unlocked! going to sit here drowning in paperwork, or are The man with one eyes gave me a sharp look and continued you going to march to that tower and demand answers?" I stood up. "I''m going." Leonidas chuckled. "Figured as much. But at least finish half of these documents first." Chapter 92: Search for Answers I shot him a deadly re, while that damn Beta smirked in satisfaction, pleased that he had sessfully tested my patience. Growling, I signed a few documents before tossing my pen aside and storming out of my office. The magic tower stood tall, defying the sky. The hum of magic pulsed in the air, resonating with my own core: It had been a long time since Ist visited, mostly because I hated dealing with the elder witches. But for Ruby, I was willing to endure it. As I stepped inside, the air crackled with energy. The witches moved about, whispering as I passed. They knew who I was. They feared me. As they should. At the heart of the tower stood Nora, waiting for me as if she had sensed my arrival long before I set foot in her domain. She crossed her arms, her emerald eyes speaking inly: Get the hell out of my territory. "No." I arched a brow. "I haven''t even said a word yet, Nora." "My answer is still the same. I don''t have time for whatever nonsense you''re about to throw at me," she snarled, baring her teeth like a cheetah. "I came to discuss something important, Nora. I strongly expect your contribution to this matter," I said, holding my tongue to keep fromcing my words with curses and insults. "Does my face look like I care about your needs?" Nora turned away. "You can leave now." I grabbed her arm before she could take another step. "Ruby came to you that day. What did you say to her?" Nora yanked her arm free and red at me. "That''s none of your business." A growl rumbled in my throat. Elysian roared in fury inside my head at the woman''sck of civility. "Everything about her is my business." She scoffed. "You''re unbelievably arrogant-" "Tell me, or I''ll tear this ce down brick by brick." Nora let out a heavy sigh, rubbing her temples as if she might die from one more pointless argument with me. "Are you deaf? I''m not saying a damn thing." "I''m a very persistent man. You know how I y this game, don''t you?" I grinned like a shark sensing blood. She stared at me for a long, calcting moment before smirking. "And desperate." I clenched my jaw. "What did you say to her that day?" Instead of answering, she stepped closer, her expression suddenly unreadable, empty. "You really care about her, don''t you?" Her words irritated me. I didn''t answer. But I didn''t deny it either. Nora hummed. "If you truly care, you need to be patient. Then ask her when the time is right, when things have settled, Killian." I exhaled sharply. "This conversation is over." "Finally! Now get lost, you insane tyrant!" I left before I actually destroyed the tower. Or before Ruby got angry at me for doing it because, unfortunately, that damn witch was her friend. Now, I had to figure out a way to get answers. But more than that, what truly unsettled me was how I would react to them. I had a feeling it was going to be bad news. Chapter 93 Chapter 93: Allegation Chapter 93: Allegation Killian''s POV: Rubyy beneath me, her chest rising and falling, her lips swollen from my relentless kisses. Her fingers tangled in my hair, her nails lightly grazing my scalp as I traced every inch of her skin, gripping her the way I always did. It made me forget all about my n to coax her into talking about her strange behavior from a few days ago. Hell, how did I let myself be this addicted? I told myself this was just another night, just a stolen moment with my woman. But as I held her closer, feeling the tremors of her body against mine, I knew it was more than that. This wasn''t about the contract that had first bound us together. I was starting to stop denying it. Even if I tried, Elysian would start getting noisy in my head, and that was thest thing I wanted. "Killian," she whispered, pressing her palm to my cheek. The softness in her voice almost brought me back to my senses. You have to go." I growled in protest, burying my face in the crook of her neck. "Are you trying to get rid of me?" Ruby chuckled, a sweet, melodic sound that made my chest ache with longing. "No, but you have a duty. Your family is waiting." "They can wait a little longer." I bit down on her corbone, savoring the way she arched toward me. She sighed, pressing a kiss to the top of my head. "If you leave now, I promise I''ll visit your room." That got my attention. I pulled back, searching her face for any sign of deception, but all I found was excitement in those deep ocean-blue eyes. "You promise?" I asked. She nodded, smiling sweetly. "Yes, Killian.¡± That was all I needed. With onest lingering kiss, I forced myself to leave her warmth, dressing in record time. Ruby watched from the bed, looking far too pleased with herself. Damn, I''d walk into battle myself if it meant getting back to her sooner. Time to speed things up, she''d have her treasure soon enough. The royal hall was already full when I arrived. My family, the council, and those I trusted most sat in their designated seats, the atmosphere thick with anticipation. I took my ce at the head of the long ebony wood table, my blood-crimson eyes scanning every face before me. The discussion began immediately. "The reconstruction of the northern territory is nearlyplete," one of my advisors reported. "With Lucius gone, our forces have secured the borders, but there are still rogue factions that need to be dealt with." "I''ll send Leonidas to handle them," I said. "We''ll burn the weeds before they have a chance to grow back." Another advisor, an old man with a face like cracked stone, cleared his throat. "Trade routes with the eastern inds have improved, but we''ve received reports of smuggling operations disrupting shipments." "Then double the patrols," I ordered, tossing aside a half-written scroll. "Anyone caught smuggling without royal approval will be executed on the spot." A murmur of agreement rippled through the room. That was always how it went. Swift and ruthless action ensured order. .Then, a voice cut through the discussion. "Your Majesty, if I may?" I shifted my gaze to the man who had spoken. A noble from one of the lesser families: Irwin, if I recalled correctly. He was an unremarkable man, tall and thin, the type who spent too much time indulging in rumors and wine feasts and not n enough time doing anything of value. I gave a dismissive nod. "Speak." "I was simply curious," Irwin began, his tone overly polite-too polite for my liking. "About... your rtionship with the former Luna of the Winterdawn Pack." The room fell into silence. I stilled, my fingers tightening egotist the armrest of my chair. "And what of it, Irwin?" Sessfully unlocked! "Well," he continued, shifting in his seat, "it has been a topic of discussion, hasn''t it? A widow from a disgraced pack now at our king''s side. Naturally, there are concerns." "How very considerate of you," I replied, my voice low and edged with danger. Chapter 03 Allegation Irwin''s lips curved into something that might have been a smile if he weren''t so afraid of me. "I only mention it because I happened to see her, walking alone in the ck market district, near the shops that deal in poisonous elixirs." He paused, letting the implication settle over the room. "It makes one wonder what business she had there." As the words left his mouth, the entire hall grew tense. My face remained impassive. Slowly, I rose from my seat and approached him. Irwin stiffened, his courage scattering like sand in the wind. "You think my future queen," I emphasized the title, watching him flinch. "is conspiring against me?" "I-I never said that, Your Majesty," he stammered, cold sweat trickling down his temple. "It''s just... highly suspicious." I tilted my head, studying him the way one might study an insect before crushing it beneath their boot. "And yet, it is not your ce to pass reckless judgment, Irwin," I admonished. Irwin swallowed hard. "As your loyal follower, I only have the kingdom''s safety in mind." All eyes were on me, waiting to see how I would respond. My blood boiled instantly. I had never tolerated anyone speaking nonsense about Ruby. And this bastard must have nine lives to dare do so. I reached for the dagger at my waist, unsheathing it in one fluid motion. Irwin barely had time to react before I mmed the de into the table beside his hand, its sharp tip mere inches from his trembling fingers. "If you ever imply something like that again," I said, my voice hard as steel, "I will carve out your tongue and feed it to the crows." He nodded frantically, the color draining from his face. Satisfied, I straightened, pulling the dagger free. "Now, if we''re done with baseless usations, let''s return to matters that actually matter." No one dared to speak further on the subject. And yet, as I settled back into my chair, my mind drifted elsewhere. Had Ruby truly been there? But what had she been doing in the ck market? Chapter 94 Subscribed 0 Likes Chapter 94 Trust and Risk Chapter 94: Trust and Risk Ruby''s POV: "Luna, here is the potion." Taking it, I gave her a grateful smile. "You were careful, right?" Amara nodded obediently. "Yes, Luna. I assure you, no one saw me or followed me A sense of relief washed over me. I was truly fortunate to have this woman as my servant. "That makes me feel a little at ease," I said. Carefully, I poured the shimmering liquid from the bottle into a small ceramic cup. The potion gleamed under the soft candlelight, swirling with shades of silver and gold. Nora had warned me that this potion was incredibly delicate, meant to stabilize my health during pregnancy. I had spent days sneaking out of the pce, ensuring I could obtain it without anyone noticing especially Killian. My hands trembled as I lifted the cup to my lips. "Are you sure about this, Luna?" Amara''s voice was quiet,ced with concern. She stood beside me, her wide brown eyes darting toward the locked door as if expecting someone to barge into my chambers at any moment. "It''s alright, Amara. This is exactly as Nora prescribed. So, it must be safe," I reassured her gently. Finally, I swallowed the thick liquid. It was bitter, burning my throat as it went down, but I forced myself to drink everyst drop. I had to do this-for myself and my baby. Handing the cup back to Amara, I grabbed a ss of water to wash away the lingering bitterness in my mouth. My stomach churned, threatening to reject the potion''s effects. Fortunately, it didn''t I had no more stock of the potion now since it was quite rare on the market. Amara sighed and sat beside me on the edge of the bed. "I''m sorry if this sounds out of line, Luna. But I''m terrified. What if he finds out? What if something bad happens?" I ced a hand over my stomach, still t enough to hide the secret within. "I will tell him, Amara. Just one more week. After that, this hell will be over." She bit her lip anxiously. "I don''t know if that''s a good idea, Luna. You''ve already been pushing your luck. If you fall ill or-* "I won''t." My voice was firm, even though doubt wed at my chest. "I''ll handle it myself." Amara didn''t look convinced. "I just want you and your baby to be safe. These walls have too many ears and eyes." "That''s no longer a secret. I''m aware of it. But I''m fairly certain everything is under my control," I stated. She let out a resigned sigh, knowing that my stubbornness was a problem once I had set my mind on something. I didn''t particrly like that trait of mine either. "Then please, take care of yourself and manage your stress as much as possible, Luna." I squeezed her hand, offering a reassuring smile I didn''t quite feel. "I will." Breakfast began at eight o''clock as usual. The grand dining hall was just as majestic as ever, with its towering ceilings andrge windows overlooking the vast kingdom. I took my seat beside Killian, smoothing out my gown as I tried to steady my heartbeat. The aroma of roasted meat and fresh bread filled the air. I had no appetite whatsoever. Everything before me looked unappealing as I imagined trying to swallow it. "How was your day?" Killian''s deep baritone voice pulled me from my thoughts. I blinked, shifting my gaze toward the source of the voice. Forcing the best smile I could muster, I turned to face the king. "It''s been pleasant so far. I spent time reading, and Amara kept mepany," I replied smoothly. Killian''s crimson eyes glimmered with amusement as he leaned in slightly. "No magnificent piano performance today?" I let out a softugh. "I''m not in the mood to y. Maybeter." "Ah, what a shame. It''s been a while since Ist heard you y," he said, his tone carrying a hint of yful sulking. It didn''t suit his image at all. That, at least, lightened my mood a little. "I promise I''ll y for you tomorrow, as long as you make time for me too," I said, half teasing. "A fair trade." Chapter 94: Trust and Risk He hummed, satisfied with my answer, and returned to his meal. The conversation flowed between us as usual, filled with warmth and teasing, but I could sense an undercurrent of something heavier beneath his words. Then, out of nowhere, he said it. "Someone told me they saw you at the market." My hand froze mid-motion, my fork hovering halfway to my lips. My heart pounded against my ribs as I slowly lowered it back onto my te. I forced my expression into something neutral, tilting my head slightly as if feigning curiosity. "I''m sure they must have mistaken me for someone else. Did someone really report that to you?" I asked as casually as possible. Killian didn''t blink. "Yes. And they said you visited the ck market." The ck market. My breath hitched. So someone had seen me. My fingers curled in myp as I fought to keep myposure. But the part about visiting the ck market wasn''t true. I hadn''t gone there only passed by it, since the shop where Nora''s prescribed potion was sold happened to be near the forbidden district. "That''spletely absurd. I don''t go anywhere without my guards. I''ve been in the pce this whole time, Killian.¡± His eyes darkened, scanning my face as if searching for a lie. "Are you sure you haven''t left the pce? Not even once?" "Not without an escort," I replied smoothly, meeting his gaze with all the conviction I could muster. Killian leaned back, exuding an air of quiet power and menace. "Then tell me, Ruby, what are you hiding from me?" I swallowed hard, gripping the fabric of my gown beneath the table. I could hear the challenge in his voice, feel the weight of his suspicion tightening around my throat. Killian had always had sharp eyes. Lying to him was difficult. But I had no choice but to take the risk. The mere thought of what could happen to my baby terrified me. "I''m not hiding anything." The lie slipped from my lips so smoothly it was almost perfect. His smirk was sharp, dangerous. "Is that so? Because it seems like you''re trying to protect your pride." I tensed, my heart hammering in my chest. "And what pride would that be?" Killian tilted his head, studying me like a puzzle he was close to solving. He still hadn''t answered my question. A chill ran down my spine. I could no longer force a single bite of food past my lips. "You know, I don''t fucking like lies, don''t you, Ruby?" Subscribed Chapter 95 Chapter 95: Our Agreement Ruby''s POV The grand hall stood in eerie silence after hearing the words Killian had just uttered. The weight of hes gaze pressed down on me like shackles, pinning me to my seat. Every upant of the table chose to excuse themselves rather than deal with their king in a grim mood. The air between us crackled with unspoken tension as neither of us dared to continue the conversation. I had seen Killian angry before even at his most extreme. But this felt different. ''I''m afraid of the worst possible oue'' He didn''t say a word as he rose from his chair, the sound of wood scraping against marble the only noise breaking the silence. Without looking at me, he extended his hand, a silentmand for me to take it. Forcing my fingers to move, finally reached out and grasped it. Killian then led me through the winding corridors of the pce, his grip firm yet unreadable. When we reached his study, he let me go and pushed open the grand double doors with little effort. The heavy wood groaned under his strength, and as we stepped inside, I knew I was walking straight into a storm. Killian shut the doors behind us with a loud thud, sealing us away from the outside world. His eyes, red as the fresh blood of his enemies, bore into me as he paced toward his desk, his fingers tapping against the polished surface. "This isn''t like you, Ruby," he said, his voice calm. "And I don''t like being kept in the dark." I folded my arms, standing my ground. "I don''t know what you''re talking about. I mean it." Killian''s lips curled into a slow, humorless smirk, "Lying again." I let out a sharp sigh. "Then tell me what exactly do you think I''m hiding?" He leaned forward, nting his hands firmly on the desk, his muscles taut with restrained anger. "I don''t like repeating myself, but I''ll make an exception. Just this once." His voice wasced with a deadly softness. "I was informed that you were seen outside the pce without so much as a single word to me. And I need an exnation, Ruby." My stomach twisted in knots. Of course, someone must have seen me. My mind immediately settled on one name, the person who had spotted me and wasted no time running to Killian. ¡°I already told you no,¡± I insisted, pressing my argument. My expression hardened. "If I wanted to, I would have had my own reasons. Am I supposed to be chained to that pce, Your Majesty?" Killian straightened, tilting his head slightly as he gazed at me. A flicker of anger shed across his face. I knew using that title would ignite his fury. "A reason you think isn''t worth sharing?" he ground out through clenched teeth. I lifted my chin high, meeting his gaze head-on. "Not everything I do needs to be reported to you, Killian.* The subtle shift in his demeanor carried an overwhelming sense of menace. His smirk vanished, his expression void of life. This was the first time I had seen him like this-right in front of me. "Oh, but it does. Because you, my dear Luna, are mine." I flinched at his words. I didn''t know why, but something about them ignited a spark of anger in me. I had never minded belonging to the King before. "Yours, you say?" I repeated, disbeliefcing my voice. "You''re right about that. Your favorite pet, isn''t that it?" His eyes gleamed with something unreadable. "You know it''s more than that!" I shook my head, resisting the urge tough at such a pathetic statement. I couldn''t even see love in his eyes. "Really? Because as far as I know, once this contract ends, there''s nothing between us." The moment the words left my lips, I regretted them. Killian''s entire demeanor shifted-his breath hitched for a split second before pure rage took over. He grabbed both my hands with such force that I winced in pain. "Take that back!" he thundered, shaking me as to snap me everything?" Sessfully unlocked! haze. "Do you really think I''ll let you go after I struggled in his grip, forcing myself to bite my tongue before I spewed something even crueler. "That was our deal, Killian. You get bored, and we''re done." His face leaned dangerously close to mine. "You still think this is about that damn contract?" Chapter 95: Our Agreement "What else would it be about?" I challenged, my voice rising. "There is no love between us, Killian, No future. Just an agreement." He moved so fast that I barely registered it before his hand mmed against the desk, sending sses and scattered papers trembling atop it. His entire body was rigid, trembling with barely contained fury. "You''re a fool if you believe that," he shouted. Tears began to pool at the corners of my eyes. Maybe there was a tiny sliver of hope within me but it was impossible. "Maybe I am," I whispered, my voice breaking. "But at least I know where I stand." Killian exhaled in a sharp breath as if my words had physically struck him. He opened his mouth, then shut it again, his entire frame shaking with something dangerous. I braced myself for some kind of physical retaliation. Instead, what I got was his hollowughter. "You''re going to regret saying that, little Luna." There was nothing left to say. Pushing against his chest, I rushed out of the room as fast as I could. I didn''t care where I was going only that I got away from him, even if just for a little while, before Ipletely shattered. However, as I stepped outside, I came face to face with thest person I wanted to see. "Well, well," the man sneered, crossing his arms over his chest. "If it isn''t the King''s little pet." The recognition struck me like a bolt of lightning. The informant. Irwin. The one who had seen me at the market. His smirk widened as he stepped closer. "You look like you''re having a rough time. Trouble in paradise?¡± My hands clenched into fists. "What do you want, Irwin?" Heughed, the sound grating against my nerves. "Oh, not much. Just wanted to get a look at the woman who has Killian Rudwick wrapped around her little finger." "I don''t have time for this. Move!" I snapped, stepping past him, but he blocked my path, his smirk twisting into something more sinister. "Careful, Luna," he taunted. "Secrets have a way ofing to light. You understand what I mean, don''t you?" My blood ran cold. He knew something. I swallowed my fear, forcing my voice to remain steady. "I suggest you disappear from my sight," Imanded, my tone icy. "And if I don''t?" "Then I''ll remove you myself." Hisughter was abruptly cut off by the sound of heavy footsteps behind me. A shadow loomed over us, and I didn''t need to turn around to know who it was. Leonidas. The man paled instantly, his smirk vanishing as he instinctively took a step back. Killian''s voice was calm, yetced with venom. "Is there a problem here?" I drew in a shaky breath, steadying myself before answering. "N-not at all, Beta." "Then get out of here, Irwin. Find some other form of entertainment," he growled. ''And just like that, Irwin''s bravado crumbled under the weight of Killian''s very real threat. Without another word, he turned on his heel and bolted down the corridor, his footsteps echoing against the marble floor. Leonidas turned to me, his expression tinged with mild surprise. "Have you been crying, mydy?" My hands clenched at my sides. I tried not to look as if I had been on the verge of tears. But Leonidas was too skilled at reading people. That was precisely why he offered his help. "Come," he said. "Let''s find you afortable ce to sit. And after that, you''re free to cry, even if it brings forth a great flood." Subscribed Chapter 96 Chapter 96: Beta''s Warm Heart Chapter 96: Beta''s Warm Heart Ruby''s POV Thiske is breathtaking; a sapphire mirror reflecting the golden hues of the bright morning sun. It would have been a perfect night if only my heart weren''t so heavy. I wrapped my arms around myself as the cool breeze swept through my hair. I had barely spoken since Leonidas brought me here, but he never forced me to talk either. That was something I appreciated about him. Unlike Killian, who demanded and took, Leonidas simply waited for the speaker toe forward. "Take this." Leonidas handed me his handkerchief. I nced at the white fabric, embroidered with his real name''s initials in deep purple. My tears were still falling. I sobbed, took the handkerchief, and murmured a quiet thank you. I wiped my tears, trying to regain control over myself. "Take your time. The morning is still young; there''s no need to rush," he said. I pressed my lips together and lowered my gaze. And so, I sat there, wrapped in the bubble of my own thoughts. I didn''t trust Leonidas. Even if I did, it was only forty percent. After all, he was the Beta of the King who had driven me into this despair. Leonidas would undoubtedly report everything I said to him. How wonderful. And yet, when someone is grieving, what they need is simply someone to sit beside them. It''s as simple as that. "Apologies for letting you see me like this, Beta," I murmured weakly. Leonidas dismissed it with indifference. "Crying only means your emotions are still intact, Luna." I fell silent at his words. The corner of my lips tugged into a brief smile. "I thought you''d be impatiently waiting for my answer," I said innocently, folding the handkerchief. "So you can go running to your king?" "Oh dear, your usation wounds my fragile heart." His voice was deliberately teasing, but his eyes said he cared. "So, are you nning to stay silent all night, Luna?" I let out a long sigh. "I don''t even know where to start." "You know Killian. Speak the truth-clearly and directly-so your king doesn''t misunderstand,¡± he exined, tossing a pebble into theke, causing ripples to form on its surface. Iughed, though only in my heart. "Compared to you, Leonidas, I am nothing. Killian probably thinks I''m betraying him as we speak." "Must you think that far?" His voice was firm, each word emphasized. "If you''re still blind to it, let me spell it out for you. He trusts you deeply." I bit my lip, staring down at the crystal-clear water. Somehow, that only made the pain in my chest grow heavier. "Don''t joke about this, Leonidas. It won''t work on me." "I''m not interested in being a jester this time either, Ruby. So, tell me basically, the man is using you of hiding something, isn''t he?" His tone wasn''t usatory, just curious. I doubted, letting out a quiet sob. "Not in the way he thinks." Leonidas studied me with one sharp eye for a long moment before responding. "Honestly, I''m curious too. You haven''t been yourself since we returned from the magic tower. But my concern is are you well? You look pale sometimes, Luna." My entire body tensed at his words. My fingers turned cold. "I''m fine, Leonidas. Just a little tired." "Your talent for honesty is truly remarkable, Ruby Lucienne," he clicked his tongue in disapproval. I looked at him-the man who had always been loyal to Killian yet had never treated me cruelly. He was my friend. At least, as much of a friend as I could have in this ce. "Have you ever felt like you''re standing at the edge of a cliff, and you know that if you jump, there''s no way bac His expression shifted, the usual brightness dimming into something more pensive. "Many times." "That''s how I feel," I whispered, more to myself than to him. "And I don''t know if I should jump. And yet... so many hearts hold a special kind of hatred for me." Leonidas didn''t rush to speak. He took a breati Sessfully unlocked! "I think I know why Irwin despises you." I scoffed, unsurprised by the sudden shift in topic. "I assume it''s simply because I exist." "And because you''re too close to Killian." I sneered. "That''s hardly a secret." Chapter 40 brig''s Van Heart "But you''re more than that, Ruby His gaze locked onto mine. "You are a threat.¡± "A threat? To whom?" I repeated in disbelief. To those who have spent years securing Killian''s favor. To those who have built their power within his court, believing themselves untouchable. And then you came along" 1 have nothing that could control Killian. Why does it always feel like I''m the easiest target here?!" I eximed, my voiceced with panic. "I know" Leonidas said, his face carefullyposed. "But that doesn''t change the fact that they think you do. Be careful, Ruby. Not everyone is as open-minded as I am." I looked away, my stomach twisting into knots. "I never wanted to be anyone''s enemy." "And yet, here you are," he said dryly. A small, bitterugh escaped my lips. "Yes... unfortunately, I am." I was grateful that Leonidas gave me time to think instead of forcing his own opinions on me. He sighed, then ced a reassuring hand on my shoulder. "More importantly, you are not alone. You have my voice behind you." I looked up at him, warmth creeping into my chest at the sincerity I found in his gaze. "Thank you, Leonidas," A mischievous glint returned to his eyes. "Come on. I need to get you back before someone particrly a certain tyrant that decides I''ve kidnapped you," And then, Leonidas intended to escort me to the library. I wanted to go there to soothe my soul, even if only for a moment. His presence had be a strange source offort. However, as we made our way there, I suddenly heard a voice. "Luna!" Amara rushed toward us, clutching a bottle tightly in her hand. In her haste, she stumbled slightly, and as Leonidas turned to steady her, the contents of the bottle sshed onto his sleeve. I froze in ce, Leonidas lifted his arm, frowning as he examined the ck stain. His fingers reached for the bottle, snatching it from Amara''s grasp. He turned it between his fingers, inspecting the liquid inside. His jaw clenched tightly. "What is this?" Panic struck me like a bolt of lightning. My heart pounded as I scrambled for the right words to exin the situation. Leonidas turned to me slowly, his piercing gaze locking onto mine. "Ruby," I swallowed hard. His lips curled into something as cold as death itself before he raised the bottle to his mouth. My breath hitched as he pressed a kiss to the rim of the ss and demanded: "Tell me what exactly am I holding right now?" ¿Ú Chapter 97 Chapter 97: When it''s a Dead End Ruby''s POV I stood frozen, my breath caught in my throat as Leonidas held the small potion bottle between his fingers, rolling it carelessly as if it were nothing more than a trinket rather than damning evidence in this case. Meanwhile, my ever-loyal servant trembled beside me, her eyes darting between us, guilt written all over her face. "Luna, please forgive me!" "Amara, it''s all right. This isn''t your fault," I said gently, cing a reassuring hand on her shoulder. My voice carried a hidden message, and I knew she understood. She bit her lip, nodded, and quickly stepped away, leaving me alone with Leonidas. I swallowed hard, trying to suppress the trembling that threatened to overtake me. "Would you like toe inside? This will be more than just a conversation." "I appreciate the offer, but I have a better ce in mind," he replied tly, slipping the potion bottle into his pocket. "Our king wouldn''t take it well if I stepped into hisdy''s chambers. I''d rather not risk my life, mydy." Leonidas straightened, his sharp gaze never wavering from mine as he gave me an unreadable expression. I knew it was silent condemnation because I was, without a doubt, hiding something. "I have the perfect ce for this discussion. Let''s go.¡± There was no room for denial. No more time for pretense. With a heavy heart, I nodded, and without another word, Leonidas pulled me away from the safest ce I had in this pce: my chambers. The crease on my forehead deepened as he led me further into a part of the castle I had never set foot in before. And then, atst, we arrived at what seemed to be the military hall. I took in my surroundings, and it was truly vast-grand, even. The walls were lined with weapons, ancient banners hanging above them, a testament to the kingdom''s brutal history. Long wooden tables stood scattered throughout the space, maps spread across their surfaces, and shelves filled with scrolls detail battles of the past. This was a ce of war and strategy. Killian''s domain. "Your friend fell silent when Killian came to ask about you." The words struck me like a blow. My eyes widened to the size of tes, and my hand instinctively flew to my chest in panic. "W-what? This is the first I''ve heard of it!" ¡°Because you''ve stirred up the entire pce without even realizing it. Killian is the real demon, Ruby. And you think you can win in this your n? Goddamn it, you know that all too well." The one-eyed Beta leaned against the massive oak table, crossing his arms as he fixed me with an unwavering intensity." You know, I was willing to let it slide when you first started acting strange. I thought it was just stress. But then, seeing you constantly on edge, restless-and now this?" He lifted the bottle. "I believe I''m owed an exnation." felt like a cornered wildcat, trapped by a man holding a wooden club, ready to strike. I hadn''t anticipated this at all. I thought I was on the right path with my n, that no one had noticed a thing. I took a deep breath. There was no point in lying anymore. Not to him. "It''s an herbal remedy. For my health as a mother." The room fell as silent as a grave. ''I shifted ufortably, lowering my head, whispering a silent prayer that Leonidas wouldn''t be furious with me for being foolish enough to keep such a colossal secret. From the corner of my eye, I saw his entire body tense, as if I had just struck him. His one eye widened slightly, then narrowed as realization sank in. He looked from the potion to me, then back again, the weight of my words settlir "You''re pregnant." It wasn''t a question. It was a statement. A stunned, disbelieving whisper that filled the vast hall with its weight. I nodded, unable to form any words. Leonidas let out a humorless chuckle, rubbing his temple as he muttered a curse under his breath. "Killian is going to lose his damn mind over this His fingers raked through his hair in frustration of the world." Sessfully unlocked! estly can''t evanpicture him as a father. It''d be like watching the end "He doesn''t know," I admitted sourly, clutching my dress with sweaty hands. "And I don''t know how to tell him, Leonidas." Leonidas stared at me as if I had just grown three extra heads. Chapter 97 When it''s a fiead End "So, all this chaos is because you, well, have a baby?" "Y-yes, it is." "For God''s sake, Ruby. Did you seriously think you could keep this a secret?" His voice was a mix of exasperation and disbelief. "Ruby, you''re pregnant! Did you think your stomach wouldn''t grower "Of course, I realize that, Leonidas! I''m not an idiot!" I shot back weakly "God, my head hurts," Leonidas groaned, running a hand over his face and shaking his head. "Ruby, do you even understand what this means? What he''ll do if he finds out on his own?" I felt the sting of tears threatening to fall. I wasn''t sure I could hold them back anymore. "It''s just a matter of time. I have my reasons too!" "Don''t act like I''m the idiot here, Ruby," he hissed. Leonidas exhaled sharply, pacing back and forth in front of me. This news was bound to shake the entire pce. "You''re ying with fire, Luna, Killian may be obsessed with you, but he is still the Lycan King. And now, you''re carrying his heir. You should have told him the moment you found out." I swallowed the lump in my throat. "And what if he doesn''t want it? He''s never said anything about children. What if he¡ú Leonidas scoffed, shaking his head. "Do you really think Killian would reject something that belongs to him? Ruby, if anything, this will only make him chain you to his side forever." His words sent a chill down my spine. Wasn''t that exactly what I feared the most? That my freedom, the small illusion of control I had. Would be stripped awaypletely? It felt like today had pped me over and over again. Of course, there was no love between us. But at the very least, the child I carried would have a worthy life. No matter what happened to me, the baby would alwayse first. Before I could form a response, the doors swung open, and Amara''s panicked voice echoed through the hall. "The Lycan King ising!" Everything froze. My heart lodged itself in my throat as I turned to Leonidas, whose face darkened instantly. "Well, Luna," he murmured, tossing the potion bottle onto the table, "it seems your secret is about to run out." I went deathly pale. Oh God, no! Chapter 98 Chapter 98: Maniption Ruby''s POV As Killian stepped into the hall, an eerie silence took over. Those crimson eyes darkened, growing cold as ice. When he looked at me, it was like a predator preparing to strike. My breath caught in my throat, and an uneasy sensation coiled in my stomach. It wasn''t just anger in his eyes. There was something far worse. Betrayal. Leonidas, standing beside me, tensed. His sharp golden eyes flicked between the King and me, wary of the storm brewing in the air. "What happened?" he finally asked, crossing his arms. "And what''s with that look, Your Majesty?" I also opened my mouth to speak, but before I could form any words, Killian''s voice cut through the thick air like the de of a guillotine. "That''s what I should be asking," he said darkly, his deep voiceced with ice. "Exin yourself to me, Ruby." Exin myself? I blinked, confusion flooding my mind: "Killian," I began cautiously, "What do you mean? If this is about my meeting with Leonidas, we were just-" Suddenly, Irwin stepped forward, satisfaction radiating from his face. Leonidas and I were both stunned by his presence. Whatever Irwin was doing here, it couldn''t mean anything good. And I desperately hoped Killian wouldn''t be swayed by his rtive''s words. I nced at Leonidas. He looked furious, ready to tear Irwin apart. "Why is this bastard in my chambers, Your Majesty?" Leonidas gritted his teeth. "You''ll find out soon enough once you shut up, Leonidas," Killian replied in a deadly tone. "Shall I offer my tribute, my King?" Irwin said smoothly, holding up a set of parchments in his gloved hands. "I have strong reason to believe that our dear Luna has been engaging in activities that threaten our kingdom." My blood ran cold, my knees felt weak, as if I might copse. What was that man nning this time? Killian''s expression remained unreadable as he tilted his head slightly, allowing Irwin to continue. "Ie bearing testimony alongside my group," Irwin announced. "We have eyewitness ounts, as well as documented evidence, that Ruby Lucienne has been sneaking out of the pce without the Supreme King of Sundrench''s permission and," He paused for dramatic effect, his lips curling into something that was almost a sneer. "Engaging inmunication with enemy factions." "WHAT? I never did such a thing!" I practically shouted, the words spilling out on instinct. Leonidas let out a scoff of disbelief. "Do you actually think anyone is going to buy this nonsense, Irwin?" "No," Irwin replied smoothly, handing the parchment to Killian. "But all the evidence is right here, Beta Leonidas." Killian took the parchment and, with a flick of his wrist, began to read. The silence that followed was deafening. The tension in the air was suffocating, a noose tightening around my throat with every passing second. I stepped forward, my heart pounding as I clutched his arm with both hands. "Killian, you know me. I would never betray you or this kingdom. This is absurd! I only left to-" "To do what?" Killian''s voice was as sharp as a freshly honed de. "You always evade me whenever I ask, and you think I''ll show you mercy for it?" Tears welled in my eyes. "I had a good reason, and I just needed time to talk to you about it!" "Oh? You mean your betrayal, Ruby?" he growled, his voice seething with fury. Leonidas, who had been watching our argument, finally decided to step in. He moved closer to Killian, standing s side. "These usations are ridiculous, Your Majesty. She is not a traitor, and you know that better than anyone," he asserted firmly. Killian''s fingers tightened around the parchment, his knuckles turning white. His gaze returned to me, searching for truth, for lies, for anything. I could see the battle in his eyes, the war between logic and rage. He wanted to believe me. But Irwin''s presence and the so-called "evidence" had poisoned his mind. "I trusted you," Killian said, his voice calmer no bat no less dangerous Sessfully unlocked! now I find out you''ve been lying to me?" Surface. "Whatever Irwin gave you, it''s nothing but "I did not lie to you!" I snapped, frustration and heartbreak ris maniption. You''re smarter than this, Killian. Look at me!" Killian''s jaw clenched. He turned to Irwin. "Is the witness present?" Irwin''s lips curled into a cruel smile. "Of course." Chapter 98: Maniption A man, cloaked and hooded, stepped forward. I had never seen him in my life. "This man ims to have seen Luna visit the ck market multiple times. He even witnessed her speaking with a merchant known for dealing with our enemies." My stomach twisted into knots, acid rising in my throat. "I was there for personal reasons. And I had no idea that merchant was affiliated with the kingdom''s enemies!" Killian''s patience was wearing dangerously thin. "Then why didn''t you tell me?" I bit my lip, turning my face away as I wrapped my arms protectively around my stomach. "Because if I had, the oue would have been exactly the same," I countered. That only fueled the ruthless king''s anger further. Killian let out a harsh breath, his voice rumbling with restrained fury. And then, with a single nod, his decision was made. "Take her to the holding cells." The words didn''t register immediately. I blinked, my breath catching in my throat. "What?" Leonidas stepped forward sharply, his golden eyes zing. "You can''t be serious, King!" "I am," Killian said, his voice devoid of the warmth I once knew. "She will be ced under watch until I decide whether this wa a formal trial." Panic seized me as the guards approached, their eyes filled with uncertainty. I took a step back, shaking my head. "Killian, please!" "Take her," he ordered, his gaze cold as steel. Strong hands closed around my arms, and I struggled against them, but they were relentless. My heart pounded wildly as I looked at Killian, desperation wing at my throat. "Let me go!" I pleaded, thrashing against their grip. "Your Majesty! Please, this isn''t what you think!" "These usations are lies!" But the man I loved no longer listened. The ruthless tyrant had returned, and he had just sentenced me to chains. The cold iron of the chains bit into my wrists, their weight sending sharp pulses of pain through my arms as the guards dragged me down the corridors. My feet stumbled against the stone floor, my body weak from the struggle. All that remained of me was silent, broken sobs. I could hear Amara''s anguished cries behind me, her voice thick with desperation. "Please! You can''t do this! She hasn''t done anything wrong!" she screamed, but her voice was drowned out by the heavy footfalls of the armored guards escorting me to my cell. Leonidas was not far behind, his voice razor-sharp with fury. ¡°This is madness, Killian! You know what Irwin is like! You''re condemning your own woman without even giving her a chance to speak!" Killian remained silent, his towering figure striding ahead of us. I couldn''t see his face, but I knew exactly what I would find if I looked merciless cruelty, the mark of a tyrant feared by all. His betrayal cut deeper than any wound, but what hurt the most was the realization that he had never broken his promises. That included pain. ''He hadn''t even given me the chance to defend myself. The pce corridors felt endless, and as we passed through them, the murmurs of the court trailed after me like a haunting requiem. I could hear their whispers, their wide eyes filled with a mix of shock and intrigue. "The King''s beloved, chained like a criminal." "Wasn''t she supposed to be his wife?" "Perhaps she was a traitor all along." As we reached the entrance to the dungeon, I felt a shift in the air. The damp scent of mold and moss filled my lungs, the cold seeping deep into my bones. The guards pulled open the heavy iron door, and I was shoved forward, my knees colliding with the rough stone floor. A sharp gasp escaped me as pain shot through my legs, but no one cared. "Lock her up," Killian ordered, his voice devoid of emotion. "She is to be watched constantly. No one is to speak to her without my permission." "You''re making the stupidest decision of your life, Killian! Damn it, what the hell is wrong with you?!" Killian finally turned to Leonidas, his crimson eyes burning with warning. Chapter 46 Mengin "Know your ce, Leonides. Unless you''d like to jon her Leonidas clenched his jaw, his fists tightening at his sides. And once the guards had left, he immediately turned toward me shaking his head with fear and desperation "I''ll find a way to make Killian listen to you" He swallowed hard, sorrow clear in his golden eyes. I had no strength left to respond exhaustion from my pregnancy draining mepletely "Until then, please, Ruby, Hold on I wished I could. But somehow, the sun felt too far away to ever see again when the love of your life chose to turn a blind eye. Chapter 99 Chapter 99: Trust is Pain Killian''s POV Pain stabbed through my skull like a dagger as I hated in the middle of the corridor, gripping the wall for support. The rage coursing through my veins was unlike anything I had ever felt before. Not even the bloodiest of wars had ever ignited a fury like this. My Ruby. A traitor Elysian howled inside my mind, his presence overwhelming, suffocating "She would never betray us! "You know my Queen wouldn''t!" "Give her a chance to speak and prove herself, Killian, Don''t make a mistake you''ll regret for the rest of your lifer Elysian let out a cry of pain as I forced him to stop urging me to turn back to that woman. I clenched my teeth against the bacsh. "Then exin what I just witnessed," I snapped at him, shaking my head violently as if that could erase the memory of her pleading face, her tear-streaked sorrow, I couldn''t allow myself to be deceived. "No, Elysian!" "You absolute bastard, Killian, You''re listening to that leech?!" The connection between wolf and master was severed in an instant. I didn''t need advice. I didn''t need warnings. To hell with all of it. In the end, I was always meant to be alone. I had been fooled by the mirage of her kindness. Footsteps echoed behind me, and before long, Leonidas was there, his face darkened by anger and immense disappointment in me. It only added fuel to my own emotions. "What the hell are you doing, you bastard?" he barked, bold enough to shove me hard. "Did you really think throwing Ruby into the dungeon was the right move? Why didn''t you investigate first and just keep her confined to her room?!" I clenched my jaw, barely restraining the urge tosh out. Gripping him back, I finally had the man where I wanted him- cornered by my sheer strength. "You forget your ce here, Leonidas. She lied to me. She went behind my back. Did you really expect me to just let that slide?" I snapped. Leonidas let out a humorlessugh. "You are the biggest fool I''ve ever met. She was hiding something, yes, but not because she betrayed you. And you know it!" "Then why was it so damn hard for her to be honest with me?!" "Look at yourself, Killian, Leonidas swatted my hand away, his golden eyes shing dangerously. "This is exactly why she couldn''t be honest with you!" Just as I was about to retaliate, Irwin chose that moment to step forward, his smirk barely concealed. "The evidence is right before our eyes. I am deeply concerned that an outsider in our kingdom could be the downfall of this realm. Shouldn''t you set aside personal emotions for the sake of your people?" I turned to him, grabbed his cor, and mmed him against the stone wall. "I don''t need you to tell me what I can see for myself. And don''t ever think that your loyalty grants you the right to speak so freely, Irwin." Irwin barely flinched, the bastard. "I''m only speaking the truth, My King. She is a poisoned thorn in your side. And it needs to be removed. Immediately. Leonidas swore. "If youy a hand on her, I''ll rip your guts out, Irwin!" "Enough!" I shouted, shoving Irwin away before turning to Leonidas. "If you''re so certain she''s innocent, then prove it. Until then, she stays where she is." Leonidas'' fists clenched, his teeth bared in a sharp grin as if he had just been challenged in the colosseum. "I will prove it. And when I do, you''ll regret this more than anything you''ve ever done." I ignored him, turning on my heels and heading toward the war chamber. If I wanted to rid my mind of that damned woman, I had to drown myself in something else: war. ''I will make them pay. Die in the most agonizing way possil'' The scent of blood filled my nostrils as I carve Sessfully unlocked! merciless precision. My sword sliced through enemy flesh like butter, and the satisfying crack of punes beneath my ws brought a twisted sense of relief and gratification. This was what I knew and understood. The battlefield never lied. Never deceived. It never made me feel like a fool who had been yed like a puppet. Corpses littered the ground, some still twitching, others already growing cold. My soldiers tore through the enemy ranks Chapter 99: Trust is Pain like wolves among sheep. Screams echoed across the valley as the traitors and spies foolish enough to stand against me fell beneath my wrath. A sword came at me from the left, and I caught it mid-swing, snapping the wrist of the fool who thought he could defeat me. His agonized howl was brief as I drove my de into his chest, twisting it before pulling it free. These men were either wolves or mixed-blood Lycans. Some were outsiders from the orc race. I remembered that I had torn their underworld apart for daring to defy me. Leonidas fought beside me, just as ruthless as I was, despite the vast chasm between us. Even in the midst of the bloodshed, I could feel his heated gaze on me, his silent usations that I had sunk too deep into the darkness. I don''t fucking care. Elysian rumbled within me, restless, his fury a mirror of my own. "Please, stop, Killian." "Don''t order me around, Elysian!" I snarled in my mind, ducking beneath a swinging axe and driving my knee into my attacker''s gut. More enemies fell. More blood soaked the ground beneath my boots. But no matter how many I killed, no matter how many corpses I left behind, I couldn''t erase the shadow of Ruby''s face from my mind. Damn her for making me feel this way. And worst of all, the tyrant still wanted her despite everything. With one final roar, I plunged my ws into the heart of thest standing enemy, watching as he choked on his own blood before copsing to the ground. From the corner of my eye, I saw Irwin approaching. He bowed respectfully. "Your Majesty, we''ve found something that may interest you," he said. I narrowed my eyes. "What is it?" "If you wish to see it, my men and I will guide you." Tossing the corpse''s heart from my hand, I strode past him, my voiceced with warning. "You''ll pay with your head if it''s not as interesting as you im," I threatened. "Of course, Your Majesty. I''m willing to risk everything for you." Subscribed Chapter 100 Chapter 100. Last Decision Chapter 100: Last Decision Killian''s POV The ne dangled from my fingers, swaying slightly under the dim light of the headquarters. It was adorned with a sapphire as blue as the eyes of its intended wearer, a gift meant to bring joy. Once, it had rested against her skin, a symbol of my im over her. Now, ity abandoned in enemy territory, discarded like a forgotten trinket. A bitterugh rumbled in my chest. So, this is how it ends? Irwin stood before me, arms crossed, chin lifted high in arrogance. "We found it among the ruins, Your Majesty. This confirms that I have spoken the truth. You can no longer ignore or dy the trial." My pulse pounded against the tide of my fury, the golden chain digging painfully into my palm. No one around me dared to speak. They all stepped back into their ces, knowing better than to provoke me in the midst of my wrath. Only Irwin had the audacity of a cat with nine lives ready to die at my hands if he had lied. "Your Majesty, we know you hold deep affection for the former Luna." Irwin knelt beside me. ¡°We are pleased that you finally found someone who could make you feel something like that. But you are a leader." "And most importantly, as your loyal servant, I cannot allow you to be bound to a deceiver," he added. "You need to learn to control yourself in my presence, Irwin. Including your manners right now." He fell silent instantly, no longer daring to raise his insolent gaze toward me. There was a sickening taste in my mouth every time I spoke with him, no matter how well he performed under mymand. "I don''t need you to y the role of my surrogate father. Do you understand me?" He quickly nodded, fear creeping into his expression at the veiled threat in my words. I turned my gaze back to the ne. Every time I looked at it, it felt as if my soul was being torn apart by a thousand des. "How''s her condition?" I questioned. "Still in the dungeon, waiting for your decision. The people are talking, Killian. They''re wondering what their King will do with a traitor in his own bed," Irwin reported. Leonidas, who had remained silent until now, spat out a scoff. "You say that as if you weren''t the one who fed her this filth. You''ve had your sights set on that poor woman from the very beginning, Irwin." Irwin''s gaze flicked toward Leonidas, his lips curling into the sharp, predatory grin of a beast from the wild. "Because I have eyes blessed by the gods. While the rest of you worshipped her, I saw her for what she truly was a snake in sheep''s clothing." I exhaled through my nose, fighting the wave of emotions threatening to consume me. Anger. Pain. Hatred. They all waged war within me, demanding release. My fingers tightened around the ne before I flung it onto the table between us. "Enough. She will die for this." The room darkened instantly. With clenched fists, Leonidas lunged at me, hisughter cutting painfully through my ears. "You''re an even bigger bastard than I thought! You''d sentence her to death without a trial?" he snarled. My voice was devoid of emotion as I responded. "A traitor''s fate is death. She is no exception." Beatrice''s voice rang out as she appeared at the entrance of the division. "I can''t ept this. My gods, it''s all happening too fast. Think, Your Majesty! If she truly wanted to betray you, why didn''t she run? Why didn''t she leave when she had the ''chance? It doesn''t make sense." "You think I haven''t thought of that, old woman?" My voice was sharper than steel, my patience razor-thin. "I''ve spent days, weeks, trying to find a reason. A justification that would allow me to spare her. But-" I gestured to the ne. "This can no longer be ignored. She''s been deceiving me all along." Beatrice stared at me, her eyes zing with fury. "Then why do you look like a man on the verge of tearing himself apart?" I tensed. She wasn''t wrong. I was numb now, hollow from the inside out. Whatever Ruby had awakened in me, whatever light she had ignited, had been extinguished the moment I saw that ne in my hands. The man I had be the one who had softened the tvrant who had found warmth in her touch was shattered beneath my feet. In the end, someone like me was alwa Suc Sessfully unlocked! "Take her to the execution chamber. She dies at ua, conucu couly. The Beta stood his ground in defiance. Leonidas'' eyes burned with fury, his entire being radiating vengeance and power in a way I had never seen before. My lips curled in a bloodthirsty grin. If I were in a better mood, I might have dragged him into the courtyard myself. Chapter 100: Last Decision I tilted my head. "Are you going to attack me again this time, Leonidas?" And then, with a simple gesture, I summoned the guards to pull the wolf away from me before striding out of the war division My wolf had chosen to sever his bond with me. The pain of it burned through every cell in my body. Elysian had never behaved this way before when I was the wounded half of our soul. This wasn''t fair to me. Leonidas had chosen to stand by the traitor. Beatrice had spoken in her defense. And who was left for me? In the end, I drowned in liquid gold. I downed the alcohol in a single shot, letting the heat sear my tongue, scorch my throat, and settle in my gut before spreading through my body. But the cold in my chest refused to fade. Leaning my head back against the chair, I stared at the ceiling as it began to spin. Beyond the window, the night exhaled softly, watching me, knowing the sin I wouldmit tomorrow. So much death and blood had stained my hands. I didn''t understand how one life could unravel me like this. It was disgraceful to my pride. But worse than that why did my heart curse my actions and grieve? Why did her face still appear in the dim shadows of this room? Iughed, bitterly. There was only one inevitable end. And tomorrow, I would be the executioner of the one who had once breathed life into my soul. Subscribed 0 Likes Chapter 101 Chapter 101: The Day I Died Chapter 101: The Day I Died Ruby''s POV Pain. That was all I had known for the past few days. As I felt the searing agony tearing through my body, I already knew. The warm drops of blood between my legs confirmed it. I had lost my baby. Curled up on the cold stone floor of my cell, I wrapped my arms around my trembling body, trying to keep the shattered pieces of myself from falling apartpletely. The prison walls cast endless shadows, stretching like the abyss that had swallowed my child''s fate whole. I closed my eyes, whispering a final farewell to the child I would never be able to hold. Tears spilled down in silent mourning. The only thing I had left was my dignity. But what did that matter when I had failed as a mother? The creaking sound of the cell door pulled me from my daze, and I forced myself to sit up, wincing at the sharp pain stabbing through my abdomen. My throat ached, my limbs felt drained of energy. And when I saw who stood there, my heart shattered all over again. My loyal servant. An innocent woman. Amara. I looked at the woman. Her wide brown eyes brimming with unshed tears as she gazed at me. "Oh, Luna," she whispered, stepping forward. I raised my hand to stop her froming any closer to the bars. "Yes, Amara. I''m d to see you''re safe. But you shouldn''t be here." "I had to see you," she insisted, her hands clenched at her sides. "Leonidas helped me get in." At the mention of his name, my gaze flickered past her to where Leonidas stood outside the cell, his face etched with guilt. Beta pleaded, looking utterly defeated and having not slept for days. "Forgive me, Ruby. I truly mean it." "Not at all. You did all that you could, Leonidas," I replied weakly. But he shook his head, his fist clenching at his side. "Tsk, Ipletely failed to do it. If only I had tried harder." "Hey, where did that haughty expression of yours go? You don''t owe me your life, Leonidas," I interjected. He turned away, his jaw hardening with emotion. Amara, on the other hand, trembled where she stood. "You look so pale, Luna." "Do you, oh my heavens!" Her voice broke, and before she could finish, she rushed forward, kneeling beside me. Her fingers gently wiped the bloodstained fabric of my clothes, her eyes widening in horror. "Luna, what happened?!" I swallowed hard, my throat burning as I struggled to keep my voice steady. "It doesn''t matter. It''s over." Amara''s breath quickened, shaking her head as tears streamed down her cheeks. "No. This isn''t fair. The king doesn''t even know!" "He doesn''t deserve to know, and it won''t change anything," I replied emotionlessly. Leonidas lost his color, staggering as he searched for support. His eyes darted wildly, unable to believe what he had just heard. "You lost the baby." I nodded once, pressing my hand against my aching stomach. "Yes." The silence in the cell was suffocating. Amara pressed her hands against her mouth, holding back sobs, while Leonidas turned away, gripping his hair as he fought to contain his furious scream. "Oh God, Ruby, I..." I shook my head, the corner of my lips curling as if genuinely amused. ¡°Stop begging for my forgiveness. It''s not like you." He stared at me for a moment before finally exhaling. His lips trembled as he tried to ask, "Do you still love him?" The question struck me like a knife, piercing deep into my already bleeding heart. I had spent every moment since being imprisoned trying to hate Killian. Trying to erase him from my heart. Trying to pretend that none of it mattered anymore. But the truth was painful. My feelings had never changed. Chapter 101: The Day I Died "Yes. Foolishly, I still do," I let out a hollowugh. Leonidas closed his eyes as if the words physically hurt him. Amara released a quiet, stifled sob, both hands covering her face. "Then why don''t you tell him the truth? Tell him about the baby, about everything." "Because it''s toote, Amara." "No," she insisted, shaking her head as tears fell even harder. "If you choose to stay silent, your fate will be sealed!" "My dear Amara. Please. Don''t continue this." She froze at the tone of my voice, her tears glistening on her cheeks. I gave her hand one final squeeze before letting go." You have to leave. If they find you here, you''ll be punished too." "I don''t care!" she shouted. "But your Luna does," I said firmly, my voice unwavering. "Please, don''t make me watch you suffer because of me." Amara wiped her tears away, nodding reluctantly. Leonidas stepped forward, his gaze heavy with emotions I couldn''t quite decipher. "I will get you out. And Ruby, if there''s anything-anything at all-" "There isn''t. But thank you, for everything." I never thought I would see this man show genuine sorrow for someone. At any other time, I might have made a joke about it. His eyes were bloodshot and watery, but he gave me a single nod. Without another word, he took Amara''s arm and led her toward the cell door. Amara nced back onest time, her lips trembling. "Luna..." "I''ll be fine," I lied, offering her my best reassuring smile. "Go." And with that, she left. The cell door creaked shut, and I was alone once more. I closed my eyes, pressing a hand against my stomach. Empty. Just like my heart. A few dayster, the time hade for me to face my punishment. The cold chains around my wrists bit into my skin as the guards dragged me from my prison cell. My legs ached from days of neglect, but I forced myself to walk with what little dignity I had left. My head was held high, I refused to let them see my fear. If this was the end of my life, I would not meet it on my knees. Because I was innocent. Outside, the sky was grim, heavy with storm clouds, as if mourning the inevitable. The courtyard was filled with faces some I recognized, many I didn''t. They whispered among themselves, their voices a chaotic hum of judgment and curiosity. And in the midst of it all, standing atop an elevated tform, was Killian. My king. The man who had betrayed me. Yet, in his mind, I was the one who had betrayed him. His crimson eyes held no warmth, his face a mask of indifference. Gone was the man who once held me in his arms, who whispered wicked promises in the dead of night. This was the ruthless Lycan King, the tyrant feared across the realm. "Ruby Lucienne," his voice thundered across the courtyard. "You stand used of treason against the crown. Do you have anything to say in your defense?" I drew in a sharp breath. I could have screamed, pleaded, forced them to listen to the truth. But what was the point? My verdict had been decided long before I set foot in this courtyard. The people who once called me their Luna now saw only a traitor. And Killian Ruwdick-he had already sentenced me in his heart. "Nothing I say will change your mind," I finally spoke, summoning what remained of my courage. "You wish to see me as a traitor? Then so be it." Murmurs rippled through the crowd. Some had expected me to beg. Others had hoped for a confession. But I gave them nothing. Leonidas, standing to Killian''s right, shifted uneasily. He was my only defender, but even his voice was not enough to sway the King. His fists clenched at his sides as he gazed at me, frustration and regret etched into his expression. Killian stared at me with lifeless eyes. "You were given everything. A ce by my side, my protection, my trust. And you threw it away." I forced myself to meet his gaze with all the heartbreak I carried. If only he knew that I had loved him in a way I never should have, and that the betrayal he saw was nothing more than a lie spun by those who wished to see us torn apart. But the lie he had chosen to believe could never be undone. The executioner stepped forward, a gleaming axe glinting in the summer sun. "As King, I pass judgment. Ruby Lucienne, for your crimes against the crown, you are sentenced to death." The words brought a smile to my lips. I closed my eyes for a moment, allowing myself to grieve for a les . Chapter 101: The Day I Died would never know, for the dream of a family that had been shattered. I looked at Killian onest time, searching for something of the man I once knew. But there was nothing. The executioner raised his de. The wind howled around me. And then, eternal darkness. Chapter 102 Chapter 102: The Cursed Heart Killian''s POV "Is this the path you''ve chosen, Killian?" That was thest thing I heard from my wolf. In response, I answered loudly, "Yes." Immediately, a mournful howl filled my head. I struggled and roared, fighting against the pain Elysian felt in my room. The waves of his disappointment crashed over me so strongly that I found myself angry at him; angry because what I did was to protect him as well, to protect both of their hearts. But Elysian rejected it and ended up as before. A permanent severance of our connection. Because of that, I suffered for days on end. "I will prove that everything is always right as long as I am the one choosing the path," I insisted in my heart, determined to prove my wolf wrong. Yet, everything connected to that woman never went ording to n-even after her death. I have bathed in blood and smeared the ashes of my enemies over it. But it did not cleanse the stench of betrayal. The scent still lingers. No matter how many times I burned the sheets, flooded the room with incense, or marked other women in my bed, Ruby Lucienne was still here. I always saw her in the candlelit corners of the room, in the pools of red wine I drank like a man chasing oblivion. She lived in the silence between my breaths, whispering ghostly usations in my ear. And yet, I was the one truly wronged. Why was it always me who had to bear the me? A king cannot afford to waver, even when his heart begs him otherwise. Ruby was tried for treason against the throne, and I was the one who carried out her sentence. If I hadn''t, my court would have questioned my authority-and my ambition to conquer the world was my highest priority. As a result, I shattered my own heart to ensure my Row Unfortunately, the kingdom did not mourn. It thrived. remained unrivaled. My power was absolute. My people were obedient. The Lycan Kingdom stood firm under my rule, though the weight of my crown grew heavier with each passing day. They saw me as their coldhearted sovereign-the Eternal Lycan King, a man above weakness, above sorrow. I made sure they saw only what they needed to see. Nothing more, nothing less. And tonight, I yed my.role to perfection. The anniversary ball was a grand affair, a spectacle of power and wealth. Golden chandeliers bathed the ballroom in luxurious light, the air was thick with the scent of rare spices and sweet wine, and the finest silks draped the noblewomen who flocked through the hall like peacocks in heat. My people feasted, drank, danced, and gossiped as they always did. They whispered about how their king had finally moved on. How he had returned to the man he once was. A man who took what he desired without ever looking back. The celebration met every expectation. Tonight, my throne was not upon a podium but upon a bed tangled with bodies. Four women surrounded me, their hands roaming over my arms, my chest, my throat. They moaned my name, each vying for my attention. Their lips pressed against mine, one after another, desperate to drown themselves in my dominance. And yet, damn it all, they still did not feel like Ruby. I cursed all the heavens and every hell in existence. I was the greatest ruler to ever live so what divine cruelty was this, and what rights did the gods have to torment me when I was the true victim of their wretched scheme? Slowly but surely, I finally managed to regain control of myself. Shifting my focus, I smirked and pulled the four of them into reckless abandon, making them believe that I was lost in their touch. Let them think they were the only ones upying my thoughts. It was easier this way. Then, the door mmed open. Sessfully unlocked! hating the shift in the air. Lazily, I opened my eyes, Silence spread through the hall like wildfire. The t already knowing who hade to ruin my night. Leonidas. My Beta stood before me, his stormy dark eyes cold and unreadable. He didn''t bow as he usually did nor did he subst Chapter 102: The Cursed Heart acknowledge the debauchery surrounding me. An unforgivable breach of decorum. I briefly considered whether he needed a lesson-or a special kind of discipline. Instead, he simply stepped forward and dropped something heavy onto the floor. His Beta insignia. "I resign." I blinked once, feeling as if I were hallucinating from the sheer amount of alcohol in my system. That notion was quickly dismissed when Leonidas firmly repeated his request. The hall now resembled a funeral procession, with all the nobles watching in breathless anticipation. My lips curled into an easy smirk, even as my blood boiled and every ounce of patience evaporated. "I''m sure this is just a case of mimunication. Are you really going to sulk like this?" There were a few chuckles around me at my poor attempt at a joke-because if not, this party would soon be reduced to rubble. "I''m sorry, Your Majesty. But this is not a case of mimunication," he stated firmly. I shook my head and gestured for one of the servers to pour more alcohol into my ss. "You must be drunk, Leonidas. I''ll let it slide this time. Now,e here. Sit down. Enjoy yourself." "Your Majesty. What I have said to you is absolute." I leaned forward, the amusement in my voice thinning into something far sharper. ¡°Alright, alright. I''ll take your behavior seriously. But you''re my Beta. Do you really think you can just walk away?" "Yes." A low growl rumbled from my throat. A sh of gold flickered in my eyes, bright and searing, a clear warning that I had reached the limits of my tolerance. "And why is that?" "I want a peaceful life." Leonidas met my gaze without fear. A few moments passed before I burst intoughter, loud and unrestrained. My body bent slightly forward, one arm clutching my stomach as I shook with amusement. "A peaceful life, you say? What utter nonsense!" The one-eyed man showed no further reaction, merely standing there with a grim expression. Running a hand through my hair, I took a slow drag from my cigar. "Tell me, Leonidas. Is this about Ruby?" At the mention of her name, the hall grew as well. "This has nothing to do with her," he e replied. en heavier. My wolves shifted uneasily, as if her specter now loomed over them I wasn''t so easily convinced. My voice turned into a weapon, sharp enough to cut through him. "Fine. Leave, and do not return. I will exile you from this pce. Do you ept?¡± "So be it." I rose from my seat, my emotions boiling beneath "Leonidas!" my skin. "You were the one who agreed. I merely epted it. How generous of you." His steps faltered mid-stride, as if he had left out a crucial part of this farewell. Then, moving backward, he delivered his final blow in a sh. Fresh blood trickled from the corner of my split lip. My courtesans gasped in rm, some casting judgmental nces at Leonidas for his audacity. "One day, you will realize that you killed the wrong traitor," he hissed venomously. And with that, he walked out of the hall without another word. The scent of wine, spices, and perfume suddenly turned my stomach. The hands of the women beside me felt like the touch of demons. "Your Majesty, is something wrong?" "We are here for you." Another chimed in, "Please, you''ll be fine if you let us take care of you." Chapter 102: The Cursed Heart Right. Everything was as it should be. I was always the King, and the King was always right. Only Leonidas and his delusions were the problem. Chapter 103 Chapter 103: The Blood Throne Killian''s POV "The King has entered the pce!" The voice of the royal advisor echoed throughout the grand halls. The wolves present scattered, swiftly moving into their positions to clear the path for their king. I walked forward, nked by my four formidable warriors. Every head bowed in reverence. As I stepped into the hall, an invisible pressure filled the air. The wolves loyal to the kingdom stood rigid, tension coiling around their throats like a noose. No one dared to breathe too loudly in my presence. They obediently refrained from any reckless behavior that might provoke my ire. "Royal Advisor. Has the core family arrived?" I inquired. The man hurried toward me, stumbling slightly before bowing at a precise forty- degree angle. "As expected, Your Majesty. However, Lord Irwin appears to be runningte," he stammered. "Hmph. Forget about that spineless creature." I strode toward the center of the hall, ascending the steps leading to the grand throne. My gaze never wavered from the figure before me, my Beta, my most trusted confidant. I never imagined this moment woulde. If I had a heart, perhaps I would feel sorrow. Instead, all I felt was anger, tinged with a trace of disappointment at his decision. Leonidas knelt before me, his shoulders squared, his expression as calm as the ocean. There was not a flicker of hesitation or regret in his demeanor. And that enraged me more than his betrayal of duty. I sat upon my throne, my piercing gaze fixed upon him like the Grim Reaper, ready to im his soul. "Beta Leonidas." The name slipped from my tongue like a sword being slowly unsheathed. "You stand before me, stripped of your rank, your title, and your ce in my kingdom." He did not flinch. I leaned forward, my fingers curling over the armrests of my throne. ¡°You abandoned centuries of loyalty, your position as the royal Beta for what? A peaceful life?" I let out a mockingugh. "Tell me, Leonidas, do you truly believe that peace exists for creatures like us?" Atst, his dark eyes met my crimson gaze. Boldly, he threw me a confident smile. My blood boiled. "I no longer wish to live in your shadow. I''vee to realize that I have lost myself, Your Majesty." A wave of murmurs rippled through the grand hall. The spectators stood as tense as a drawn bowstring, as if dreading the wrath I would unleash upon fully grasping the underlying meaning behind my former Beta''s words. My jaw clenched, ws beginning to emerge from the tips of my fingers. "You are nothing without my name behind you, Leonidas," I sneered. "It doesn''t matter, Your Majesty. I will ept that." "Even if you end up hunted by enemies lurking beyond these walls? You know your reputation, you were once my most beloved wolf in the art of destruction." Leonidas stood firm, unwavering in his choice. "I will ept whatever consequencese my way." My nostrils red as I fought to contain the searing rage coiled within my ribs. I wished that this man would reconsider all his choices with the brain he was given. What a waste of my mercy, letting him live yesterday. I would ensure his days in exile were anything but peaceful. Every second, every minute, every hour-his existence would be shrouded in fear until he saw no other option but to crawl back to his King and beg for his ce once more. I eagerly awaited that moment. "Then you leave with nothing." My voice rang with authority, my chin lifted high. "You are banished, former Beta cast out from my pce, my kingdom, my sight.". And yet, he remained still, as if I had not just stripped him of everything he had ever known. "Your choice is your virtue. It will be honored by your people," he said. He rose to his feet with the stance of a warrior. The hall watched in silence as he squared his shoulders, exuding the same strength and prowess that once made him my most trusted wolf. He gave me one final salute. Then, just as he turned to leave, he halted casting onest nce in my direction Sessfully unlocked! "One day, Killian, you will see that everything before you is but a mirage My brow furrowed, hard as my heart. "Are you giving sermons now? You''ve been banished for less than five minutes, and you''re already preaching to me?" Leonidas'' lips curved into something that was not quite a smile vet not 4714 Chapter 103: The Blood Throne "The truth." And then, just like that, he was gone. The heavy doors mmed shut behind him, and with them, something inside me cracked. But I buried it deep and rose to my feet, cloaked in the dignity of a king. "Let this be a lesson to anyone who thinks they can walk away from me unscathed." The day after Leonidas'' departure, the kingdom buzzed with whispers. The halls were thick with hushed voices and murmured disgrace. The wolves who resided within the main pce formed their little groups, as if I wouldn''t notice their nervous nces, their hurried steps, their treacherous tongues wagging like vipers around me. Pathetic. Idiots. I silenced them with a single look as I strode toward the royal chamber of Sundrench Kingdom, my boots striking the marble floor like the tolling of a funeral bell. "Enough of this petty gossip. Shut your mouths before I carve them closed with my ws," I hissed. The shadows of solitude followed me as they should.'' I sat in my chair, exhaling as I stared at the stacks of parchment piled atop my desk. I could feel the dull throb in my head intensifying. All these documents were driving me insane. I remembered the one person with whom I used to share my frustrations, the one I had often threatened to set fire to these ursed papers with. And then, without fail, he would fly into a rage because some of them actually did end up singed. I pushed those memories away. There was nothing left to be done about a man who had chosen a life of peril over thefort of staying by my side. That truth gnawed at me more than I cared to admit. The creak of the door broke my thoughts, and in walked Irwin. A man who had the audacity to share my bloodline, yet none of my strength. Greasy, frail, a rat draped in noble silks. He approached with the same sycophantic smile he always wore when pretending to be some innocent creature. "My King," he began, dipping his head in an exaggerated disy. "It truly wounds my heart that our dear Leonidas has left our pce." I bared my sharp teeth. "Watch your words, Irwin. If you wish to join him in exile, go ahead say one more sentimental thing." The color drained from his face. He raised his hands in surrender, letting out a small, nervous chuckle. "Forgive me, Your Majesty. My only intent is to serve. I merely wish to offer a solution. Surely, you will need a new Beta." I stiffened, my eyes twitching slightly. I hated the offer, hated the truth of it but he was right. I could not leave the position vacant for too long. For the kingdom''s sake, for the sake of governance. The Beta''s role was too vital to remain unfilled in the absence of its king. I waved my hand dismissively. "Fine. Find me a suitable candidate. Make yourself useful for once." Irwin lit up like a rat catching the scent of a feast. "Of course, Your Majesty! I will gather only the most capable-" His words were cut short as my hand mmed into his ribs. A sickening crack echoed through the chamber as he choked, his eyes widening, his mouth opening and closing like a gasping fish. I twisted my grip inside his body, feeling his lungs tremble around my fingers. "Y-Your Majesty," he wheezed, saliva bubbling at his lips. "You''re boring me, Irwin. Why don''t you take a little nap?¡± I offered him a cold smile before yanking my hand back, letting him crumple to the floor, unconscious. Wiping my fingers clean, I refused to let any trace of him linger on my skin. I turned back to my cursed stack of work, only to be interrupted by a sharp, searing pain stabbing into my gut. I stumbled, gripping the edge of the table''s armrest as a searing heat engulfed me like molten fire. My breath came in ragged gasps. Something inside me twisted and wed at my flesh. Then red. A thick, dark stream of crimson spilled from my lips, sttering onto the marble floor. My vision blurred at the edges as murmurs of shock rippled through the hall. I barely registered the sound of my head maid, Beatrice, rushing into the room. "Your Majesty!" "Oh, for the love of the gods! Someone, help! Guards!" "Call for a healer!" At her cry, several guards stormed in. Beatrice tried to steady me, joined by two burly warriors who moved to support my weight. I growled, silencing their pitiful panic around me. "Quiet!" I roared, wiping my mouth with the back of my hand. "I am not d Chapter 103: The Blood Throne But my body betrayed me. My knees buckled once before I forced myself to stand tall, swallowing the metallic taste of my own blood. Dozens of eyes stared at me in fear, all scrambling to aid me. Damn it. Another mouthful of blood hit the floor, and I cursed whatever force dared to weaken me. Something was wrong. But before I could grasp what it was, my consciousness slipped into the void. Chapter 104 Subscribed 0 Likes Chapter 104: His Damned Nightmare Chapter 104: His Damned Nightmare Killian''s POV I know I''m dreaming. Thest thing I remember is the taste of blood in my mouth and the echo of panic in my study, with Irwin sprawled on the floor. Now, I find myself standing in a vast naturalndscape. A boundless field of flowers stretching to the horizon. The sky is a soft blue, adorned with tufts of white clouds resembling children''s favorite cotton candy. The scent of flowers fills my senses, sweet and intoxicating. There''s also a hint of fresh leaves and the crisp touch of dewdrops carried by the wind. It has been a long time since I''ve seen something so breathtaking. The delicate petals sway in the breeze, their colors ranging from deep crimson to the softest shades of purple. Above, the sky is crystal clear, sunlight pouring down like liquid gold. The warmth of the sun is gentle, not scorching. For a moment, I simply stand there, letting the surreal beauty seep into my senses. Is it spring now? I push aside that useless question. This is all wrong. I have never had a dream like this before. My dreams are fleeting and fragmented, filled with chaos, destruction, and shadows I cannot control, even as their king. But this is too vivid. I can move my body as if this were the real world. The texture of the grass beneath my bare feet, the whisper of the wind against my skin, and the thunder of my heartbeat in my ears. It all feels real. "Why do the gods delight in toying with their people? I don''t need this damn beautiful dream." I click my tongue. "Of course. Them and their games of fate. Bastards." I tried to continue my effort to wade through the flower field. Eventually, my gaze fell upon a silhouette. My brow furrowed. A figure stood in the distance, amidst the swaying flowers, her white dress billowing in the wind. I moved before I could think, my breath catching in my throat, my blood running cold in an instant. I quickened my pace to confirm what I was seeing, and my jaw fell open as the details of her features came into focus. It was the woman I had sentenced to death. "Ruby?" She turned to face me, and for what felt like an eternity, I found myself staring into those bright blue eyes again. Untouched by pain, grief, or the destruction wrought by my own hands. She looked just as she had before everything fell apart. Before the usations. Before the execution. "No," I muttered instinctively, shaking my head. "Damn it, this is insane! What the hell is happening?!" "Have I finally lost my mind?" I continued my monologue, loud enough for Ruby''s duplicate to hear. Yet instead of hatred, she greeted me with warmth. Her lips curved into a radiant smile. "Killian!" Internally, I willed my legs to move, but they felt as if they were weighed down by lead. She ran toward me, herughter light, as if nothing had ever happened, as if I wasn''t the one who had ended it all. Before I could react, her arms were around me; warm and filled with nostalgia. Her face was buried in my chest. She clung to me, desperate for physical contact. I tensed, my hands twitching at my sides. "I missed you," she murmured. A low growl rumbled in my throat. I hadn''t expected those three words to slip from her lips. Disgust curled in my gut, only to morph into something dangerously close to hope. But no-no remnants of sentimentality for her should remain. As far as I was concerned, everything had ended the moment she chose to stab me in the back. I grabbed her shoulders and shoved her away. Those sky-blue eyes widened in shock. "You''re dead. Why do you still dare to stand before me?" "Was hurting me not enough? Did you have to crawl into my mind, too?!" A hollowugh escaped me as my grip tightened. "You really do have a talent for making people suffer, Ruby. So do me a favor. Stay dead." Sessfully unlocked! Her first response wasn''t words but was touch. She ced a hand on my arm, her gaze softening. "I know, Killian." My tone rose, echoing through the vast expanse. "Then why are you here? Why are you leaks Chapter 104: His Damned Nightmare happened? As if I didn''t cast you into eternal damnation?" "Because I don''t hate you, Your Majesty." Her words struck something deep within me. A growl wed its way up from my chest. "You should. I had you executed. You should be full of hatred for me. You should want-" "Oh, I tried," she giggled softly, reaching for me again. "But honestly? It''s hard. So this is how it ends. I still want to be with you." "What kind of nonsense are you spouting?" Amusement flickered across her face. She shook her head as if this were all some kind of joke to her. "You''ve always been like this, Killian. Let me tell you a little secret." Her grip tightened just enough to pull me toward her. Then, she leaned in, whispering against my ear. "I love you." I froze. My heart pounded in a way I despised, as if trying to tear itself free from my chest. Her words rang in my ears, filling the cold, empty spaces within me. I stared at the beautiful blonde before me, my lips parting as if to say something. Then, suddenly, a small voice pierced through the haze. "Mom?" I instinctively turned toward the source of the voice. A small child stood a few meters away, watching us with the same wide, blue eyes as Ruby. He couldn''t have been older than five. The wind tousled his messy ck hair, and his tiny brows furrowed in displeasure as he clung to the hem of Ruby''s dress. "Who is he, Mama?" Ruby crouched beside him, gently brushing his hair back with a tenderness that made my throat tighten. She looked at me for a brief moment before turning back to the boy. "He is your father." The world shattered around me. A deafening noise filled my ears, my breath came in ragged gasps, and my body staggered as if the ground had been ripped away beneath me. Then, darkness destroyed the entire dream dimension. I woke with a jolt. My heart mmed against my ribs, my breath uneven. The cold grip of reality seeped into my skin, yet the echoes of the dream clung to me like a curse. Ruby and a child. I cursed under my breath, dragging a hand down my face, but the image wouldn''t fade. Why did that child look so much like me? Chapter 105 Chapter 105: The She-devil Returns Killian''s POV "A great way to rise from the dead." I clutched my throbbing skull, my throat dry and burning as if I had swallowed embers straight from a volcano. Pushing. aside the ridiculous moment, I forced myself upright, blinking against the irritating light. My vision swam before finally settling on a familiar figure. The maid head Beatrice., "Your Majesty! You had us all worried!" She hurried forward, cing a pillow behind my back. Her face was filled with rare relief, her lips parting as if she were about to scold me for the hundredth time. "Your heartbeat was so weak. We were all terrified!" She lingered at the edge of my bed, her hands fidgeting as if unsure whether to touch me or keep her distance from the tyrant king. I scoffed, "Even if my heart stopped, Beatrice, I would still live. Have you forgotten? I am immortal." "That doesn''t stop us from caring about you, Your Majesty." "Yes, well, you can put that concern on hold for now." A violent cough racked my chest, cutting off her words. Pain stabbed through every bone in my body. I barely held back the growl threatening to tear from my throat as another wave of agony crashed over me. I couldn''t remember thest time I had fallen this hard. Damn it. Before long, the healers moved swiftly, their hands steady as they held me in ce within seconds. One of them gently guided Beatrice away, speaking softly, "Our King will recover, Head Steward. It''s best if you sit here for now and allow us to do our work." "Thank you, healer," she murmured. The healer smiled. "It is our duty." I clenched my teeth every time I so much as moved. Each slight motion sent unbearable jolts of pain searing through my veins. I tried to rise from this cursed bed, only to be immediately restrained by several healers. "Do not move too much, Your Majesty. You are still recovering." "Recovering from what?" I grumbled, my patience wearing thin. My voice was weaker than I wanted it to be, rough from the bile and blood I had coughed up before losing consciousness. One of the older healers, his eyes wise and unreadable, stepped forward. He seemed unfazed by my harsh demeanor. "There is no harm in resting. Your body is rejecting something, my King. We believe it to be a foreign poison." I tensed up, almost unable to believe what I was hearing. Someone is trying to poison me and hoping I die? Is this aedy? The elder healer continued, "But your Lycan blood is fighting against it. The symptoms were severe, though the worst has passed. Your organs suffered temporary disruption, but your healing abilities have prevented any permanent damage." I scoffed. "How wonderful." Another cup was brought to my lips, and despite the nauseating scent of herbs churning my stomach, I forced the liquid down my throat. A grimace crossed my face at the bitter, revolting taste of the medicinal ingredients as they spread through my body. Slowly but surely, the lingering pain began to fade. The healers murmured amongst themselves about my condition, but my mind was elsewhere. I let them finish their work before dismissing them all. "Leave if you''re done. You''re giving me a headache." One by one, they obeyed without hesitation. Only Beatrice remained. "Your Majesty, I strongly suggest you eat first. I''m quite certain you haven''t done so." "I''ll eatter." I sighed, leaning back against the pillows. "I appreciate your concern, Beatrice." "Very well, my King. I shall take my leave." Sessfully unlocked! After the door locked behind I allowed mysen to sink deeper into the silence of my chamber. Inside, it was peaceful except for me. No matter how many times I reyed it in my head, I couldn''t shake off the dream. Could it be called the cursed nightmare? I could still see the boy''s face, his wide blue eyes filled with curiosity, tilting his head in the same way I did Mufinto Chapter 105: The She-devil Returns clenched. This had to be a trick of the mind, the rotting remnants of grief festering in my subconscious. Maybe just a mere dream. And yet, I couldn''t erase the way Ruby looked at me with love or the words she spoke about her feelings. That unsettled me far more than if she had screamed for revenge. Damn that woman. Even death wasn''t enough to banish her from my life. I sat up, swinging my legs over the edge of the bed. The cold air did nothing to cool my frustration. Running a hand through my hair, I exhaled sharply. It had been nearly a year since that day. I had long since buried that part of myself under my cruelty. So why, after all this time, was she still haunting me? I rose to my feet, testing my strength. My limbs still felt weak and sluggish to move. Pushing myself forward, I made my way toward the desk by the window, my gaze falling upon the stacks of documents awaiting my approval. This is why a ruler never gets proper rest. The responsibilities of a king left no room for weakness. I forced my mind back to the present. For the next few hours, I worked, forcing myself through the monotonous drudgery of governance. Reports, taxes,ints from nobles just endless streams of nonsense grievances. By the time I sealed thest scroll, night had fully settled in. Stretching my stiff muscles, I stood up. My body ached, but at least it was better than everything I had endured earlier. Tomorrow, I''ll have to investigate. Whoever to try and kill me was truly brainless. I couldn''t die, not even on the brink of death. Idiotic creatures. This time, I intended to sleep on the sofa. I had no desire to return to my bed, knowing it would likely drag me back to that. However, my hope for rest was cut short-by the soft sound of footsteps on my balcony floor. An assassin? I felt my adrenaline spike. It had been a long time since anyone dared to send a group of these so-called fans after me. So, I feigned sleep. Then, a scent I recognized filled my nose. A few secondster, an all-too-familiar voice reached my ears I despised. Irwin. A surge of anger coiled in my gut. That idiot rat has the guts to sneak into my chambers in the dead of night? Had I not already dealt with him? My fists clenched beneath my folded arms. That bastard. So this was his way of repaying me after I had granted him a position in the royal administration for his so-called service? I was ready to strike until the voice shifted. A woman''s voice. And I recognized it instantly. Daphne Marjorie. "I''ve been waiting for this day for so long." I could hear her breathing so close to my face. "We''re finally together again with no thorns between us," she whispered as sweet as sharin. "Even if it takes a lot of effort, it doesn''t matter. As long as it works." A hand grazed my cheekbone until I wanted to break it right now. "That woman must be roasting in hell. Don''t you agree, my Killian?" Her forehead pressed against mine, a soft chuckling sound echoed in the room. "Now it''s time to make you mine, my love." ¿Ú Chapter 106 Chapter 106: Regret Killian''s POV "Well, I''ll continue my love speech from here. I want to say that I''ve longed to be this close to you, darling." Iy still, breathing evenly as I listened to Daphne continue her monologue. "As Daphne Marjorie." Her voice was soft, almost melodic, but there was a sickly sweetness to it. A tone of devotion and obsession I had heard from her once before in my life. That had ended in my hands. I could hear the tapping of her feet. I recognized her habit whenever she felt restless and anxious. The rustling of her gown against the marble floor, the way she asionally bit her nails. I didn''t even need to open my eyes to know. "My beloved Killian," she whispered, almost dreamily. Her warm breath brushed against my skin. "You knor even in sleep, you are the most extraordinary being. The only one worthy of devotion." "I have loved you for so long. Even when I was a child, ''I knew you were mine from the moment you held me andforted me when my parents wouldn''t. But she-" Her voice cracked, venom seeping into her words. "That disgusting little whore stole you from me. Ruby Lucienne. Nothing but a parasite!" I forced myself to remain still, letting her spill her madness. "But I fixed it," she breathed, her tone growing more fervent, sending ice through my veins. "I got rid of her. I protected you from her deceptions!" "Because you are mine, Killian. Always mine." A twisted, horrifyingugh slipped from her lips. "Do you know what it felt like to watch you make her the happiest woman in the world? To see you throw away your greatness for that worthless woman? It made me sick. It made me furious!" "But I know, my Killian. One day, you will understand. And when you do? Then I am the only one destined for you." She pressed a kiss against my cheek, sending a wave of disgust churning in my stomach. I could hear the heartbeat that should have been silent, feel the heat of her presence beside my bed. "All my efforts this time were not in vain. I don''t care even if I have to sell my soul to the Devil!" "As long as it means having you and making you mine for eternity!" At that moment, I let go of all restraint. My eyes snapped open. Before she could react, I lunged, my hand wrapping around her throat, lifting her off the ground. Her crazed eyes widened, a mix of shock and exhration shing through them. "Killian!" I mmed her into the stone floor. The impact shook the room, her body crumpling like a broken doll. In a heartbeat, I was on top of her, my fingers tightening around her throat. "You should be dead, cousin," I snarled, my voice dripping with fury. "I should have killed you alongside the executioners in that prison that day. I heard your bones snap, watched the life drain from your eyes. You wretched bitch, what the hell have you done?!" Daphne gasped, her nails wing at my grip. It only made me tighten my hold. Spit began to dribble from her lips. "Answer me. How are you still alive?!" I roared. Tears welled at the corners of her deranged eyes. For a brief moment, I thought they were the tears of someone staring into death''s face for the second time. But no. This vile creature relished my touch, even as my ws dug into her. She smiled. "Dark magic," she rasped. "Did you really think death could take me from you? I will never leave you, Killian. Not ever." "Selling my soul was just a small price to pay. Well, not that it matters," she added smoothly. Her form flickered for a moment, and suddenly, I saw the truth. Irwin. The greasy bastard who had stood before me just hours ago. The same kin I had despised and eliminated without a second thought. But it wasn''t him, was it? Realization hit me like a knife plunging into my gut. Daphne let out a weakugh, her voice trembling with sheer exhration. "You finally see it now, don''t you? It was me. I was Irwin. It just took a little killing for me to rece him. There couldn''t be two Irwins, could there, my love?" "I fooled all of you. And, of course, I fooled you about Ruby." Chapter 106: Regret Her grin stretched unnaturally, monstrous, her eyes gleaming with sadistic pleasure. "I erased her... so that you could be mine." Something inside me snapped. My grip faltered. So this was all a fabrication. The betrayal orchestrated in Ruby''s name. It had all been a game. How could I have been so blind? I recalled every code Leonidas had left me before he disappeared. This was the answer. A suffocating darkness of murderous rage coiled around me. The screams of vengeance roared in my ears. I released her throat only to seize her by the hair, yanking her upward. "You lied to me," I hissed, dragging her across the room. "You stole her from me. YOU MADE ME KILL HER!" She giggled, "Yes. And you did it so beautifully." That was the final push I needed to finish what I had started. I hurled her toward the door, watching as she crumpled at the threshold. She coughed violently, yet still, sheughed. I stepped toward her, seizing her once again with my ws, and yanked open my chamber door. The guards outside jolted in shock, their eyes darting between me and the disheveled woman in my grasp. "Chain her. Take her to the courtyard and bind her. I want her tied beneath the open sky." Mymand thundered through the corridor. The guards momentarily stunned, clearly unprepared for the identity of the woman before them. "NOW!" My fury shook the air, leaving no room for defiance. They scrambled to obey. Daphne thrashed in their grip, spitting curses as she fought against their filthy hands. Yet, as she turned back to me, she smiled only for her expression to darken into a deep scowl. "Why can''t you see everything I''ve done for you, Killian?!" she snapped. "I am the only woman in this world worthy of you!" "KILLIAN RUDWICK!" I watched her disappear into the corridor''s dimy, my face devoid of expression. My fingers curled into fists, trembling at my sides. The remaining wolves exchanged wary nces. One of them finally dared to ask, "My King... Lady Daphne is dead. How could she return?" I turned to face them, my expression thunderous. "She was never dead. She deceived us all. And she sold her soul to the Devil. That was her own damned confession." Murmurs erupted among them, disbelief and horror spreading like wildfire. They were all clearly shaken, stunned that Daphne had gone to such extreme lengths, throwing away her life for the sake of a single man. I silenced them with a single re. "Leave her there. When the sun rises, we will decide her fate." Without another word, I turned and strode back into my chambers, mming the door behind me. I pressed my hand against my temple, my nails digging into my skin. When my legs could no longer hold me, I leaned against the cold stone wall, my hands covering my face. A name surfaced in my mind. And for the first time in years, something foreign burned in my chest. Regret. Chapter 107 Chapter 107: Burn the Evil Soul Killian''s POV The morning sun rose, casting long golden rays over the kingdom. Unfortunately, no warmth reached the execution grounds. The air was thick with tension, and the crowd spoke loudly as they took in the scene before them. When the news spread and some of the pce residents saw it, everything erupted into chaos. Everyone wondered where Irwin was if Daphne had been impersonating him. I immediately issued an investigation order. The results came so quickly that I felt like I was being mocked. It turned out that a crime had beenmitted right under my nose all this time. Irwin''s corpse, now nothing more than a skeleton, had been neatly stored in the underground warehouse. I had no desire to know how the man had died. Still, I couldn''t help but feel a twinge of pity that his life had ended in vain because of an obsessive woman. Daphne Marjorie was chained to the execution post. Her body was bound with heavy iron restraints, and her wrists were bruised from struggling. Yet, herughter rang out continuously, filled with madness. "He loved me!" she sang, tilting her head to the side as she stared sharply at the gathered crowd. "He always did! Do you think this will change anything? It won''t! He belongs to me!" The gathered werewolves whispered among themselves. Some openly disyed looks of disgust and contempt. Others clutched their cloaks, averting their eyes from the deranged woman who once bore noble blood. "I always knew she wasn''t sane. We used to be in the same dormitory!" "How disgraceful. Look, not even her parents bothered to show up!" A young woman responded, "They say she made a pact with the devil! If that''s true, she''ll never be able to reincarnate!" "But what about Lady Ruby? Does this mean she was just a scapegoat?" The voices grew louder when someone mentioned the name of the woman who had once been the sun of this pce. I closed my eyes, feeling a pain I never thought I could experience before. It was as if something had pierced my heart, and my eyes burned, stinging with the urge to rub them just to make it stop. Who could me them for feeling such a loss? I could see the longing they had for Ruby after her departure. They just didn''t speak much about it when I was around the pce. A royal advisor snapped me out of my thoughts, reminding me to step into the execution grounds. I gave a small nod before moving forward. A silentmand in my crimson eyes forced every head to bow. My cloak billowed in the cold wind as I approached the post, my golden eyes locking onto the deranged wretch. My fury burned like the fires of hell. Daphne''sughter died the moment she saw me. Her lips trembled before twisting into a sickening smile. ¡°My man! You''vee! This means you''re here to take me away, right? Tell them that I''m your perfect woman. Tell them that you love me too!" "Love, you say?" She nodded eagerly, shing her white teeth. "Yes! I want you to speak the truth here about us!" I stopped in front of her, tilting my head. "You mean the truth that you are a liar, a murderer, and a traitor to this kingdom." The uproar grew even louder upon hearing that confirmation. The crimes and chaos that had gued this kingdom were indeed her doing. Meanwhile, Daphne merely giggled, shaking her head. "That''s true, my king. But you know I had my reasons! I got rid of those pests for you! You should all be thanking me!" "Ruby Lucienne was never a traitor!" I roared, my voice rolling across the execution grounds like a raging storm. "You stole her from me. And for that, you will burn." Daphne''s expression finally changed entirely. The flush of life drained from her skin. Perhaps she had finally realized there was no escape from my judgment. Then, she threw her head back and screamed, a sound that sent shivers down every spine. "I REGRET NOTHING! KILLIAN, I LOVE YOU WITH ALL MY HEART!" That was all it took for my people to unleash their ultimatum. One by one, from the voices of old men to young children, they demanded retribution and justice. "Punish the traitor!" "THIS ABOMINATION MUST BE ERADICATED! Sessfully unlocked! "Please, Your Majesty! We all want this criminal to or With that, I turned to my executioner and gave a single nod. The torch was lit, its mes burning bright against the dull morning sky. Momentster, the fire touched the wood beneath Daphne''s feet. Smoke curled upward, the scent of burning fabric filling the open square before the heat even reached her skin. Chapter 107: Burn the Evil Soul Daphne screamed, thrashing violently, her chains rattling as she fought against the inevitable. Her shrieks were inhuman, her body twisting as if something inside her was resisting the mes. Then, all of a sudden, the atmosphere around us shifted. A dark shadow emerged from Daphne''s burning body, an amorphous entity writhing with pure hatred. It screeched, a sound so piercing that even the strongest warriors staggered. The figure twisted and howled, stretching toward me as if trying to grasp my very soul. "DEVIL!" someone in the crowd cried out. The shadow convulsed violently before its form began to wither. It let out one final, agonized shriek before vanishing into nothingness, leaving only the crackling fire behind. The mes burned until there was nothing left of Daphne Marjorie but ashes. The wind carried the scent of death and justice for the innocent victims across the kingdom. There was more sorrow than anger. Today, they remembered Ruby. So did 1. I turned to the gathered crowd, my voice as cold as winter. "Return to your ces." I stepped away, turning my back on them as I made my way toward my residence. The royal advisor walked beside me the entire way. Normally, Leonidas would have been the one to ground me in reason. The royal advisor was well aware of this. "Shall I arrange a meeting with our Beta?" he asked cautiously. "Does that title still suit him?" as old or as experienced as you, but I know that you The royal advisor remained unfazed by my sharp tongue. "I may not be care about him. This is yourst chance to stop losing the people you love." Never in my life had the name Killian Rudwick been associated with the wordpassion. The royal advisor was prepared for my wrath at his audacity. Yet instead of striking him, I ced a hand on his shoulder, a gesture that startled even myself. "I leave that duty to you." Chapter 108 Chapter 108: Repair Chapter 108: Repair Killian''s POV The afternoon weather was peaceful when the guards reported an unexpected visitor at the gate. The name they mentioned was one I had long wished never to hear again until the incident two days ago made me realize I had made a grave mistake. The guards spoke that name once, and it echoed through my bones as if it had never left me. "Has our former Beta trulye to see me?" "Yes, Your Majesty." I took a sip of chamomile tea, savoring how its effects slightly soothed my nerves. "Not apanied by the royal advisors?" I asked again. "Our Beta hase alone, Your Majesty," one of them replied. I lifted my gaze. "Then inform our royal advisors that the former Beta of the Sundrench Kingdom is no longer to be sought." "Understood." After that, I ordered them to bring the man to my lounge, a beautiful ss garden where various flowers and nts flourished. I sat in my chair, my fingers tense, waiting for his arrival with the guards. The heavy doors creaked open, and he stepped inside. He looked different from how I remembered. His clothing was simple, though the sharp glint in his eye was anything but. His movements carried theposure of a man who had found peace, while I remained trapped in my own chaos. There were no traces of stress on his face. All in all, he had been living well since leaving the pce. It embarrassed me, to say the least. He stopped a few meters away, standing tall, his expression unreadable. "Killian," he greeted, his tone t. I leaned back in my chair, narrowing my eyes at him. "You return after abandoning your position, addressing me so boldly by my first name?" "Would you rather I say it properly?" he countered. "No, thank you." Leonidas cast a skeptical look. "Did you hit your head too hard? Usually, you hate it when someone tramples on your pride." My silence was answer enough, and it seemed to irritate him. He rubbed the back of his neck before pulling out the chair across from me. "I came because I heard what happened. Daphne Marjorie." My body instinctively went rigid at the mention of my cousin''s name. A tingling sensation crept over my skin, ufortable tremors, and a sick churn in my stomach that sent acid rising to my throat. Her obsession with me shed through my mind, and my skin prickled with disgust. I would never touch someone who shared even a single branch of my family tree. What drives a person to such obsessive lengths, to the point of selling their soul? Utterly idiotic. "Somehow, she managed to survive all this time. You burned her as punishment. Is that true?" he pressed. My jaw clenched at his words. "You heard correctly. And if you''re here to scold me for it, I suggest you hold your tongue." "My intentions are good, oh Mighty King. Don''t assume the worst just yet." "The circumstances say otherwise." ¡°The leftover garbage in your head needs to be cleared out so you can think straight." He grabbed the teapot, pouring himself a cup of tea. He drank it leisurely, as if it were the most natural thing in the world. "I also want to talk about my dear friend the one you took as your partner. Ruby Lucienne." Just hearing that innocent woman''s name mentioned in conversation made my chest ache. I had spent so much time convincing myself of her betrayal, punishing her with my own hands. But after Daphne''s confession, the weight of regret and guilt had been eating me alive. Even behind my mask of indifference, I was crying. "There''s nothing to say," I stated, my voice devoid of emotion. "Why do you sound so unsure?" Leonidas sho Sessfully unlocked! There''s no shame in admitting you feel guilty. You were deceived, Killian. You executed the only woman you truly loved for what? Lies whispered by a deranged woman who wanted you for herself." "Are you lecturing me?" "Yes. Do you have a problem with that? You need a wake-up call every now and then, you bastard." Chapter 108: Repair A growl rumbled from my throat. "Enough." Leonidas scoffed, "You know it''s true. You''ve known it since Daphne unraveled into madness. Youmitted yet another unforgivable sin, and now you have to live with it." I nearly rose from my seat, ready to lunge at the former Beta. In a split second, I realized that this one-eyed man was only trying to toy with me. "Don''t test me, Leonidas." He remained unfazed. "Or what? Will you cast me aside again? Strip me of my rank for the second time? You need me, Killian. You know that. And you know Ruby didn''t deserve what happened to her." I turned away from him, my hands clenched in frustration. "I can''t change the past." "No, you can''t. That''s a fact," he agreed, his voice softer now. "But you can do something now." I met his gaze, the corner of my lips twisting in disdain. "Tell me, Leonidas. What do you want me to do? Grieve? Mourn a woman who''s long dead? The past is the past, Leonidas. She''s gone!" "And yet, you still dream of her, don''t you?" he struck right where it hurt. "You still see her when you close your eyes." I didn''t answer because he was right. Leonidas let out his breath, crossing his arms. "I never hated you, Killian. But I hate what you''ve be. I never felt this way until Ruby entered our lives. She was my friend. I respected her. Losing her feels like losing a part of myself." "And you have no idea how much I regret it. Because I was the one who first connected her to my King. I was the one who, indirectly, led her to her death," he continued bitterly. "If you truly feel guilty, then take the first step with respect." "Respect her?" I shook my head, finding the entire situation absurd. "And how exactly do you expect me to do that?" "Start by fixing the kingdom you''ve let rot in your grief. Be the king you once were before all this madness consumed you. And stop driving away the people who are still here." I gritted my teeth. The bastard knew everything, even though he was no longer in the pce. Despite everything, Leonidas still saw the man I used to be. "And what about you?" I finally asked. "Do you still want a peaceful life?" A smirk curled on his lips. "That depends. Are you going to keep being an unbearable bastard, or is there a chance I might get my friend back?" A smallugh escaped me before I could stop it. "A slim chance." He grinned. "I''ll take it." Chapter 109 Chapter 109. When a Pure Soul is Reborn Chapter 109: When a Pure Soul is Reborn Ruby''s POV "Honey, please help me!" I recognized the owner of that voice. Of course, after all that person had been with me for years in our sacred bond. I set down the watering can and turned to see Mikael Torrance holding two adorable little bundles. He wore the sulky expression of a pouting child. How ridiculous. "So, you need my help again this time, Mikael?" I asked teasingly. "You can see what''s right in front of you, Rosalyn," he grumbled. I chuckled in amusement. Alice and Anna were mirror images of each other, both with wild, dark honey-colored curls and mischievous golden eyes that sparkled with boundless energy. Their faces were round, their cheeks still plump with the softness of childhood, and both had a tiny beauty mark beneath their right eye. The only way to tell them apart was Alice''s slightly longer hair and Anna''s missing front tooth. As they wriggled free from Mikael''s grasp, they bolted toward me, their tiny feet pounding against the ground before they flung themselves at my legs. "Momma!" they cried in unison, clinging to me tightly. I let out a smallugh, smoothing Alice''s unruly curls before reaching for Anna''s tiny hand. "Have you two been giving your. father trouble again?" Two identical golden eyes widened in feigned innocence. "No," Alice began. "Maybe," Anna finished. Mikael groaned, rubbing his face in exhaustion. "Don''t believe a word they say, Rose. They''re little demons wrapped in adorable packaging." He crossed his arms, pretending to be serious, though I could see the amusement in his eyes. Meanwhile, the twins, Alice and Anna, were restless. "Daddy isn''t fun. He''s always busy!" Alice pouted. Anna nodded, crossing her arms. "He never ys with us. It''s always work, work, and more work!" Mikael rolled his eyes. "That''s because someone decided to spill an entire bottle of ink on my desk today. Do you have any idea how hard that was to clean? Thank goodness it didn''t get on my documents." My eyes widened in surprise. I turned to the mischievous twins, shooting them a questioning look. In unison, they puffed out their cheeks. Every now and then, Alice would stick out her tongue at her father, and Mikael was acting just as childish would stick his out in return, as if to say, See? Your mother always takes my side, you little troublemakers. I let out a breath and crouched down in front of them. Softening my voice, I began to question them gently, hoping they wouldn''t cling to their stubbornness. Sometimes, I wondered where they even got that trait from. "Alice, Anna, is that true?" "Yes, Mom." I let out a soft sigh, reaching out to gently stroke their heads. "Momma understands why you did it. You both really miss Daddy, don''t you?" A small smile tugged at my lips as they nodded in turn. "But what you did was still wrong. If you make a mess of Daddy''s workspace, won''t that just make it take even longer for him to y with you?" The twins nudged each other with their elbows. "Well then, now. Go to your father and do what I''ve always taught you to do when you''ve done something wrong," I said, pinching their chubby cheeks lightly. The girls lowered their heads, exchanging nces before mumbling in unison. "We''re sorry, Daddy." Mikael crouched down to their level, lifting their chins with his fingers. "Hmm. I don''t know if I should forgive you. That was a lot of ink," Sessfully unlocked! The twins exchanged a brief nce before tackling him, knocking him to the ground. Mikael let out an exaggerated groan as they climbed all over him. "Please, Daddy! We''ll be good!" Anna pleaded, tugging at his shirt. Alice nted a small kiss on his cheek. "We promise!" Chapter 109: When a Pure Soul is Reborn Iughed as Mikael groaned in mock pain. "Fine, you little menaces. I forgive you." The twins cheered, smothering his face with more kisses before scrambling off in a yful race. Mikael let out a dramatic sigh before standing up and dusting off his clothes. "I swear, Rose, they''re worse than rogues." "They take after their father," I teased. As we walked back inside, Mikael''s hand brushed against mine. "How''s your head?" I thought for a moment before offering him a half-hearted smile. "A little sore." Mikael frowned. "Again?" "Yes, it seems so." The pain had be a daily urrence ever since my memories returned, bringing back fragments of a past life that haunted me. Almost unconsciously, my fingers traced my neck where the scar had once been a permanent reminder of my beheading as Ruby. My stomach twisted, and a shiver ran through me as the phantom pain resurfaced. Mikael noticed the change immediately. Without a word, he ced his warm hand on my back, rubbing it gently, soothing 1. me. "Honestly, this is a rare case. No one has ever truly regained memories of their life before reincarnation," he said. I pressed myself closer to him. "I don''t know whether to feel special or cursed hearing that. But these memories, they''re terrible." "And luckily, I''m your hero," he replied with a slight teasing lilt. "So no one from those memories will evere back to hurt you." "Aw, should I be touched by that, my superhero?" With Alice and Anna''s hands in his, Mikael leaned over slightly, sinking his teeth into the mating nd on my neck and growling softly against my skin. "You should. You know I love you more than anything." I smiled gently. "Me too, Mikael." 14 And yet, the past always had a way of creeping back in, whispering reminders of the torment I once endured. Mikael led me inside, holding me close as the girls ran off to join their cousins. Once we were alone, he gently turned me to face him, his thumb brushing tenderly over my cheek. "Do you want to rest? I can take care of the twins tonight." I leaned into his touch, savoring his warmth. "I''d rather stay with you and watch over our girls for a little while. I don''t want to be away from you." His gaze softened, filled with such pure devotion that my heart bloomed like spring flowers all over again. "If that''s what you want, then I''ll make it happen." Chapter 110 Chapter 110: A True Love Ruby''s POV Winter had wrapped the city of Aberdeen in a thick silver veil. Snow nketed rooftops and streets, transforming the bustling city into a quiet winter wondend. Streetlights flickered, casting golden halos onto the cold pavement, while the asional sound of boots crunching through the snow echoed in the still air. The river that ran through the heart of the city had frozen over, glistening like ss under the moonlight. Smoke curled from chimneys, carrying the scent of burning. wood and warm meals on the frigid night. Beyond the city, nestled deep in the snow-covered forest,y our home. The Bloodmoon Pack. Our territory stretched for miles, a vast stronghold with towering pines standing as silent sentinels. At its heart stood Alpha Manor, a grand structure of stone and wood, its windows glowing warmly against the cold midnight. Tonight, the halls of Alpha Manor were quiet. The children, exhausted from y, had fallen asleep in the yroom. I sat on the plush sofa in the main living area, cradling Alice in my arms. Mikael sat beside me, holding Anna close to his chest. Across from us, Karina Torrence, our Luna, watched with a knowing smile. "They grow up so fast. It feels like just yesterday I was holding my own child," Karina shook her head, a hint of amusement in her voice. I chuckled, gently brushing Alice''s curls away from her face. "Tell me about it. Some days, I swear they just learned to walk, and now they''re already running circles around us." Mikael let out an exasperated huff. "Running? More like wreaking havoc, my Luna." Karinaughed. "That''s how pups are. They''ll challenge you at every turn." After a few minutes of conversation, Mikael and I rose to take our daughters home. Our house wasn''t far from Alpha Manor just a short walk along the snow- covered path. The cold air bit at my skin, but Mikael''s warmth beside me made it feelforting. By the time we stepped into our home, the firece''s heat embraced us. We gentlyid our daughters in bed, tucking them under thick, soft nkets. I pressed a kiss to their foreheads before Mikael did the same. Once the twins were sound asleep, we quietly slipped out of the room, closing the door behind us. Mikael stretched, rolling his shoulders before turning to me with a grin. "Finally, peace and quiet." I raised an eyebrow, already sensing the mischief in his tone. "Mikael Torrence. Please, I know you''re just as mischievous as your daughters." He stepped closer, his hands sliding around my waist. "What? Am I not allowed to enjoy some time alone with my beautiful wife?" I rolled my eyes, feeling the heat rising to my cheeks. A small smile tugged at my lips. "Alone time or just an excuse to tease me?" His grin widened. "Both." Before I could protest, he dipped his head and pressed a kiss to the side of my neck, the warmth of his lips sending a shiver down my spine. His hands slid lower, pulling me closer. "Mikael," I whimpered, my fingers tightening around his arm. "You''re not seriously nning to get me pregnant with a third child, are you?" "No, my love. I would only do that if you wanted me to." "Sometimes, I really doubt you," I gasped as he moved further. "And yet, you always love me for it," he murmured against my skin. I scoffed yfully beforeughing with him, wrapping my arms around his neck as he lifted me slightly, pressing me against the nearest wall. His scent the one I always loved wrapped around me like aforting nket. Pine, musk, and . something uniquely Mikael. Just as he was about to deepen the kiss, he suddenly froze, pulling back slightly. His golden eyes darkened with something serious. "I found something." 1 blinked, still dazed from his touch. "What?" Sessfully unlocked! He stepped away, walking toward the desk in the corner of the room. Picking up a folder, he handed it to me. "The identity of the man you''ve been searching for from your past life." The warmth of the moment faded as I stared at the file. Slowly, I took it from his hands, my fingers trembling slightly. As I opened it, my breath hitched. Chapter 110: A True Love There, printed in bold letters, was a name I could never forget. Killian Rudwick. My stomach twisted. Memories surged forward shes of pain, betrayal, and blood. I felt my grip tighten around the folder as I struggled to steady my breathing. I may be called Rosalyn now, but that didn''t change the fact that I was once Ruby. It felt like nothing more than shedding one skin for another. I remembered the day of the execution and how he chose lies over the truth. I had epted it with open arms. I had expected hatred in this new life. But, as always, expectations don''t always align with reality. A part of me still held something for him deep in my heart. I desperately hoped it would never resurface. Because Mikael was an incredible mate. He was the very definition of devotion an ideal husband and a perfect father in this world. Mikael was by my side in an instant. Hisrge hand rested on my shoulder. "Rosalyn?" I swallowed hard. "It''s him." "I don''t know whether tough or feel sorry for you, love," he grimaced, ncing at the photo of the man in my grasp. "You always get tangled up in things beyond logic. Killian, the eternal tyrant." I clenched the folder, a storm brewing in my chest. "Where is he now?" Mikael exhaled sharply. "Last I heard, he''s in Scond too. But I haven''t confirmed the reason for his arrival..." "Well, I don''t care about his reasons." What a tant lie. "I just want to know what kind of man has given me so many headaches. And to find a way to keep my distance from him." Those stormy gray eyes softened. He reached for my hand, gently taking the folder and photos from me, setting them aside. "I know. That''s why I didn''t want to tell you until I had solid information." "Thank you for finding him." Mikael brushed a strand of hair behind my ear, his touch soothing me. Because of him, my love for this man only grew stronger. "It''s just a small thing, Rosalyn." Biting my lip, I decided to take the initiative to tease him. I had missed him so much, and everything he had given me only made me want to hold on to him even more. Besides, it had already been a week since west did it. "I think you should carry me to our bed." Mikael blinked for a moment before a deep, rumblingugh escaped his lips. "I have a better idea before we get there. Don''t you agree, mate?" ¿Ú Subscribed 0 Likes Chapter 111 Chapter 111 Reunion Chapter 111: Reunion Ruby''s POV "I hate being a Beta!" For the umpteenth time, Mikael Torrance whined. I wanted so badly to punch him. Unfortunately, I needed him too much where else would I find another all-around idiot like him in this world? "Mikael, have you forgotten that you were the mostpetitive one back when we were young, right after the Beta selection?" His lips curved downward even more. Good grief, he looked just like the little boy I remembered from kindergarten, the one who loved to pull on my braids and always ended up getting kicked into the gutter. "Back then, I thought it was cool. My brother, Alpha Jaden, looked so impressive. But darnn, it''s all just nonsense. Too much work!" He pulled the nket over himself again, covering his bare body. "So, you really want to go back to sleep? Alpha will wake you up in his oh-so- friendly way," I replied. Mikael shuddered beneath the tulip-patterned fabric. He groaned and swore in Russian, and I pressed my lips together as hard as I could to keep fromughing. I reached out, touching his shoulder and patting it gently. "Just go with him. I''m sure it won''tst untilte this time," I coaxed him softly. He peeked out from under the nket, grumbling, "But why does it have to be at 1 AM?! And in the middle of winter, Rosalyn!" "Hm, I don''t really know." I tilted my head, pondering various possible answers. "Maybe it''s something urgent. You said it was for the Raven Pack, right?" "Yeah, that''s what Alpha said," he replied sourly. "You''d better get ready now." I got up from the bed after pressing a kiss to the crown of my childish husband''s head. Grabbing my thicker clothes, I put them on quickly. "I''ll tell the kids that Alpha kidnapped you, and they''ll take out their anger on your brother. You know how they are, don''t you?" That made his grin stretch so wide I almost feared it would tear. Moments like this reminded me where the twins got their strong genes from, their father. "Cool!" The winter morning arrived with gloomy sunlight and an overcast sky. The familiar scent of damp forest drifted through the air, seeping in through the vents. The house buzzed with lively chatter as Alice and Anna ran around the kitchen, their tiny feet pattering against the wooden floor. Today was their first day of kindergarten, and they could barely contain their excitement. "Mama! When do we have to go?" Alice whined, tugging at the hem of my sweater. Anna, on the other hand, was already struggling to put on her little backpack, which lookedically oversized on her small frame. Her face shone with enthusiasm. "I want to meet my friends!" she chirped. "Agreed! Dores said there are lots of toys too!" Anna cupped her cheeks in shock, while Alice eagerly nodded, confirming that everything their cousin had said was indeed true. I smiled warmly at the two of them, crouching down to adjust their coats. "Yes, my loves. You''re going to have so much fun, and I''ll be there soon to drop you off." Mikael had finally escaped the wrath of the twins-though it had taken quite the effort, considering today was their first day of school. The moment I slightly twisted my words, the twins immediately began scheming. I grimaced, already imagining the pranks our Alpha would soon fall victim to. The house smelled of warm toast and honey as I hurried to get them ready. Once the twins were bundled up in their coats, hats, and gloves, we headed to the car, theirughter ringing through the crisp morning air. A few passing omegas greeted them with friendly smiles. The ride to school was filled with the twins excitedly pointing out everything they saw through the window. "Look, Mama! A squirrel!" Alice gasped, her mouth forming a small ''o. "It''s eating something!" Anna pressed her face against the car window. "I bet it''s a magic nut." I chuckled at her whimsy. "You mean like some kind of fairy candy?" Anna gave a small, determined nod. "Yes! It turns you into a superhero squirrel!" By the time we arrived at the kindergarten, my heart was a mess of emotions. The school was a charming building nestled Chapter 111 Reunion among rows of tall trees. Colorful decorations and cheerful drawings lined the walls, making it a weing ce for both wolf pups and human children. I led the kids inside, and almost immediately, the room filled with other parents chatting as their children clung to them. It seemed I wasn''t the only nervous parent dropping off their child on the first day. A woman with blue eyes and blonde hair approached me, holding her son''s hand. "Your daughters are beautiful. Twins?" sheplimented with a warm smile. I returned her smile. "Yes, Alice and Anna. They''re just beginning their future." "They look so excited," she said, watching as Alice clung to Anna''s arm, both of them wide-eyed as they took in their new surroundings. I covered my mouth, chuckling. "Excited and hyperactive." "Haha, yes, I can see that." The woman couldn''t help but catch my beloved twins'' infectious enthusiasm. "This is a big step for them and for us as mothers. By the way, I''m Evelyn." "Rosalyn Torrance. A pleasure to meet you, Lady Evelyn." We exchanged a few more words about the joys and struggles of raising little ones before the bell rang. Alice and Anna held hands, turning to look at me with their big, bright eyes. There wasn''t even a trace of fear about being in this new and unfamiliar ce. I felt so proud of my two brave little wolves. I knelt down and kissed their foreheads. "You''re going to do great, my loves. Be kind and have fun." With onest gentle pat, they hurried off to join the other children. I stood there for a moment, watching themmunicate silently as they always did before blending into the group. My heart swelled with pride and emotion. With a heavy heart, I finally turned to leave the kindergarten. My thoughts drifted as I reflected on how quickly time had changed. In my past life, there were no cars, no bustling cities filled with machines. It was strange how humans had evolved so rapidly, even surpassing our kind in many ways. It was easy to separate Ruby''s life from Rosalyn''s. And I wouldn''t trade this one for anything. As I neared the city, I decided to stop by the supermarket to pick up some groceries. The store felt warmpared to the cold air outside, and I quickly grabbed a basket, maneuvering through the aisles. My focus wavered for a second as ! reached for a box of pasta only to nearly crash into a towering stack of canned food. "Woah, little wolf, carefull!" a deep, amused voice rumbled. A strong hand caught my wrist just in time, steadying me before I could send the entire disy crashing down. I turned to face my unexpected savior and froze. He towered over me, his dark eyes intense against his copper-toned skin. His physique was all muscle, radiating themanding presence of a leader. But the most striking feature was the ck eyepatch covering one of his eyes, making him look like a roguish pirate straight out of a forgotten legend. I frowned in displeasure. "Little wolf, you said?" He grinned, shing sharp teeth. "You almost turned into a one-woman disaster zone." "I was fine, thank you very much," I shot back, my tone clipped. "Just a minor observation." He crossed his arms, amusement still glinting in his gaze. "Would''ve been a shame if you got buried under a mountain of instant ramen." I couldn''t hide my irritation as I took a step back and brushed the dust off my coat. We had just met, yet he acted as if we were long-lost lovers. From his scent, he seemed to be one of our kind. "I can handle myself." His smile widened. "Right. You definitely look like the type who can handle things." There was something unsettling about him. A strange sense of d¨¦j¨¤ vu crept over me. His appearance, his movements like felt eerily familiar. I forced myself to dig deeper into my memories, only to be rewarded with a headache that struck like a hammer. Great. I tilted my head, studying him. "Do I know you?" "Well, I certainly wish you did. But unfortunately, no, miss." I took a few steps forward, cing my hands on my hips. "You can''t just go around calling someone ''little wolf'' unless you actually know them." He shrugged. "Well, what can I say? Old habits die hard." I had had enough of dealing with this peculiar stranger in Scond. There was nothing in it for me. I reached for my cart, ready to drag it away from him. Suddenly, he extended his hand. Chapter 111: Reunion "I realize I''ve been rather rude. My name is Leonidas. And you, miss?" I stared at his hand for a moment before finally taking it. "Rosalyn Torrance." Leonidas grinned before releasing my hand. "Alright then, Rosalyn, try not to bring down the store disys again, okay?" The corner of my eye twitched in irritation. I had half a mind to throw a can of instant food right at his annoyingly handsome face. "You''re never going to let that go, are you, Mister Big Bad Wolf?" He winked. "Not a chance. See you around, little wolf." I let out a disbelievingugh as I watched Leonidas walk away, waving his hand in that annoyingly yful manner. I sincerely hoped I wouldn''t run into him again. If I did, I''d be sure toin to Mikael. A few momentster, a realization hit me like a bolt of lightning. Leonidas. One eye. A kingdom. I covered my mouth, a tremor running through my entire body. Oh, my moon. It was him. Beta Leonidas! Subscribed Chapter 112 0 Likes Chapter 112 Memory, Depression, and Sin Chapter 112: Memory, Depression, and Sin Killian''s POV Humans are an unpredictable species. Perhaps because of their short lifespan, they push themselves to evolve, striving for the pinnacle with relentless ambition. Just look at what they have achieved in the past few centuries like echnology, industry, power. Truly astonishing. The Sundrench Kingdom has remained well- hidden within human society, adapting seamlessly, mimicking their ways without ever truly bing one of them. Just like today. I sat in a caf¨¦, my Beta coat shielding me from the bitter Scottish winter. The warmth of the espresso in my hands did little to melt the ice lodged deep in my bones. I was paler than usual, the sleepless nights catching up to me, deepening the shadows beneath my eyes. The demons of my past never granted me peace. Depression, PTSD, or whatever name one might give it. I had long epted that I was a man gued and hunted by the echoes of my own sins. "I am utterly pathetic." Ruby Lucienne. That name was an inscription that refused to be buried. It always haunted me whenever I observed the caf¨¦''s patrons, my gaze lingering on the couples tucked into the corners, whispering sweet nothings over steaming cups of coffee. I envied them-their intimacy, the simplicity of their affection. What if Ruby had been given a chance to live? Would she have been like them,ughing at trivial jokes, her fingers curled around a cup toorge for her hands? Would she have worn that exasperated smile she always had when I teased her, orughed freely, easily, without the weight of those who had hurt her? And most importantly would she have forgiven me? "The answer is an absolute no." Even so, I would chase her to the ends of the earth if she were to be reborn. But I do not seek forgiveness. Ltook her life when she was nothing but a victim. I let out a weary breath, forcing my grip to loosen around my cup before I shattered it. Guilt is a noose that never ckens, the executioner''s de forever pressed against my throat. In my lifetime, I have never been like this, despite the countless deaths that have stained my hands. But with Ruby, I was manipted like a fool into betraying the one I had sworn to protect. ¡°Foolishness in decision-making,¡± I muttered. I was a tyrant, a coward, and the king who couldn''t even see the lies swirling around him. "Drowning in self-loathing again? Should I fetch you a raft, Your Majesty?" I didn''t need to look up to recognize that voice. Leonidas. Always appearing at the worst moments. "You''rete." I took a sip of my coffee, letting the bitterness coat my tongue. It was nothingpared to the bitterness within me. Leonidas dropped into the chair across from me, stretching out his arms with the casual arrogance of a man who had never known true suffering. "I was unfortunately dyed." I raised an eyebrow. "By what?" He grinned. "An olddy was crossing the street, and I-" "You were flirting with someone, weren''t you?" I interrupted. His grin widened, his chin lifting arrogantly so much so that I had the urge to throw him out the window. "That word sounds far too crude, Killian. Perhaps you meant to say that I was charming her so I could win her heart? If so, then yes." I pinched the bridge of my nose. "Why do I even bother asking?" "Because deep down, you secretly enjoy our conversations." He leaned forward, stealing a sip of my coffee before I could stop him. "Anyway, you''ll want to hear this. There are a few packs in this city. I met one of their wolves today." I gave him a nk stare. "And let me guess. You''ve now decided they''re your next conquest?" Leonidas feigned offense. "How dare you, Your Majesty you know this one already has a mate!" That caught my attention. I narrowed my eyes, "And yet, you''re still interested?" Sessfully unlocked! cuf me. He rolled his eyes. "Oh, please. I may be a yboy, but I''m not a homewrecker." "That''s still up for debate." Chapter 112. Memory, Depression, and Sin Leonidas waved a dismissive hand. "Anyway, that''s not the point. The point is... she''s different." I sighed, pinching the bridge of my nose. My headache was already growing. I could only hope that, at some point in the future, I wouldn''t find myself dealing with some absurd drama straight out of a soap opera-where a woman shows up, iming to be pregnant and demanding I take responsibility for Leonidas'' actions. Because, believe it or not, I had already witnessed something like that once before... even if Leonidas wasn''t the culprit that time. "Spare me your poetry." "I''m serious." He leaned forward, a rare hint of seriousness creeping into his tone. "I don''t know why, but she feels familiar." I frowned, "What do you mean, Leonidas?" And so, he began recounting the events of how he met the she-wolf. I listened carefully, though some parts felt exaggerated. He even acted it out with his hands, demonstrating how he had saved the woman from being crushed by falling cans of food. "And did you exchange names?" He snapped his fingers in front of me. "Yeah. Rosalyn." "Okay, just forget about her. Find another woman, or maybe just date Nora, I suggested, pleased to see the change in Leonidas'' expression. "I would never date her. She rejected me, and it broke my tiny heart." I made a face at that. My stress levels were rising because of this hopeless flirt. The conversation continued, shifting from love troubles to the internal politics of wolf rtionships. My fingertips tapped against the polished wooden table. "You really want to work with these smaller packs?" he asked. "The world has changed, Beta. Whether we like it or not, we need a strategy," I exined grimly. "I don''t want us to be caught in another tragedy where our kind is ughtered by humans again, forcing us to go through the effort of erasing their memories." Leonidas tensed. "Well, I feel the same way." We sat in our bubble of silence, each lost in our own thoughts. For me, my mind kept drifting back to the bittersweet memories of the one true love of my life. "It''s been hundreds of years. Do you think she''s been reborn?" "Maybe," I replied, my voice slightly unsteady. "And what will you do?" The caf¨¦, the warmth of my coffee, the murmur of humans around us; all of them faded, swallowed by a single question that crashed over me like a tidal wave. "Atonement." Subscribed Chapter 113 0 Likes Chapter 113: Game of Destiny Chapter 113: Game of Destiny Killian''s POV "Since when did you be thiszy, Killian Rudwick?" I closed my eyes, resting an arm over them. I ignored the presence of that annoying Beta. This bed was far better than the outside world. Besides, Leonidas could take my ce. "Are you listening to me or not?" That one-eyed Beta now had his face turned red clear proof that he was furious. Yet, I chose to ignore him. "I swear I''ll call our guards and have them drag you to the main road. Is that what you want?!" 1 turned my back on him. I could feel Leonidas''s murderous gaze directed at me, but I had no energy to move my feet. It was better to sleep so I could see Ruby again. It was just an illusion created by dreams. But in that ce, Ruby was happy with me. "The meeting is simple, Leonidas. You can represent me," I stated. "WHAT? Absolutely not!" "I am your king. My orders are absolute." That statement led to me being dragged away by Leonidas. I shouted at him and grabbed a pillow, smacking it against his head. "Bastard! You''ve gotten more insolent since I went soft, haven''t you?!" Leonidas red his nostrils, cursing profusely. If I were my old self, this man''s head would have already been hanging from the central tower. "You''re the main problem here, Your Majesty. Now hurry up, clean yourself, and let''s go!" After countless verbal battles, I finally conceded. Dragging my sluggish body to the bathroom, I took half an hour to get everything ready. Alright, two hours of socializing wouldn''tnd me in a mental institution. Throughout the journey, Leonidas remained indifferent as I mentally prepared to strangle him. Honestly, attending this meeting wasn''t anywhere on my priority list. It was a tedious obligation, one that could easily be handled by a representative, whether a Gamma or even a Beta. But, as always, he took great pleasure in making my life miserable. Even if his intentions were good, forcing me to stop relying on sleep, to choose reality over my fantasies. It didn''t make him any less insufferable. Today''s discussion would revolve around inter-pack cooperation, strengthening defenses, and securing shared territories. It was a political game I had yed for centuries. The presence of a kingdom merely sweetened the deal for others but for me? It was just another duty, another demand that came with my existence as a king. Still, despite myck of enthusiasm, I found myself standing at the gates of the Bloodmoon Pack. The cold air of the sacred months bit into my skin. This pack''s territory was vast, stretching deep into the forests surrounding the outskirts of Aberdeen. Their residence, an imposing yet unembellished fortress loomed ahead as I stepped forward. The moment I crossed the threshold, the very atmosphere around me seemed to shift. The guards at the entrance stood as rigid as gpoles, their faces stiff, nostrils ring as they caught my scent. I could feel their unease with crystal rity. The way their instincts screamed at them to submit, obey, and step aside in my presence. Fear coiled around their throats like a demon''s chain, choking them. It was a reaction I was all too familiar with. Leonidas walked beside me, exuding his usual nonchnt demeanor, utterly unaffected by the atmosphere. He smirked, leaning slightly toward me. "They look like they''ve seen a dead man." I merely hummed in response. I was still reveling in the way others perceived me; fear, reverence, hatred, and everything in between. It was like a symphony, soothing the beast that lurked within me. Inside, Alpha Jaden was already waiting. He was a tall man, built like a warrior, his sharp blue eyes locking onto mine. Beside him stood his Beta, Mikael. From what I had heard, he was Jaden''s younger brother. Unlike the Alpha, Mikael carried himself with a more adaptable air, though his gaze was just as piercing. Perhaps, in some ways, he was cut from the same cloth as Leonidas. "Killian. It is an honor that you would grace our smalt pick your ordance, Jaden greeted, extending his hand. Sessfully unlocked! "Alpha Jaden, may the gods grant you health a I shook his hand with a courteous enough gesture. Meanwhile, Mikael followed suit, his expression now just as serious as his brother''s. "Your Majesty." Chapter 113: Game of Destiny Leonidas pped Mikael on the shoulder, a knowing smirk on his lips. "Don''t look so serious, Beta. We''re here to make friends, not start a war." Mikael rolled his eyes, but I caught the wary nce he threw my way. Even with this forced camaraderie, my presence unsettled them. As we entered the grand meeting hall, the same reaction repeated itself. The Alphas from various packs had already gathered, their conversations halting the moment I stepped inside. Whispers spread like wildfire. "Look at him! That''s the immortal Lycan king!" "He looks so young! Does he really use ck magic?" "Watch your tongue! We''ll be dead if he hears that!" Some flinched when my gaze passed over them. Others stiffened, forcing themselves to remainposed. I took my seat at the head of the long table, Leonidas beside me, still amused by the difort radiating from the wolves around us. The meetingmenced with discussions revolving around pack unity, defense strategies, and the necessity of cooperation. Their concerns were valid. The human world was advancing rapidly, and our kind needed to evolve alongside it. Threats loomed in the shadows: hunters, rogue factions, and other supernatural forces seeking to disrupt the bnce. "The survival of our kind cannot be left to chance," I dered, my voice booming through the room. "We can no longer afford to remain divided by outdated rivalries. A council, one that does not govern only werewolves, but all supernatural beings must be established." "We''ve seen how human governing bodies effectively regte their people. We can adapt that system within our own society," I added, letting my gaze sweep across the gathered crowd. Murmurs spread throughout the hall. Some nodded in agreement, while others looked unconvinced. Those in thetter category feared change. It was a natural instinct, albeit one with its drawbacks. Stagnation would lead to the downfall of future generations. "And who would lead such a council?" an Alpha asked cautiously. I turned my gaze toward the speaker, making an effort to keep my expression as amicable as possible. "That has yet to be decided. But it will not be ruled by a single sovereign. It will be a collective force." More discussions erupted, arguments shing with agreements. I began cursing internally. It had already been over two hours, and that wasn''t even counting the events that would follow. But by the time the meeting concluded, the first step had been taken toward something far greater. With that, the festivities began. The grand hall was filled withughter, the rich aroma of roasted meat and fine wine lingering in the air. Conversations flowed as lightly as feathers, though many still cast nervous nces my way. I found myself drawn into several discussions. Thanks to Leonidas, who kept insisting. It was utterly irritating. As I spoke with Mikael, discussing the finer details of his pack''s security measures, a feminine voice suddenly called out from behind us. "Mikael!" Mikael''s entire demeanor shifted in an instant. A smile as bright as a sunflower spread across his face, nearly blinding. I turned, watching as a woman approached in hurried steps. Mikael''s arms opened wide, clearly intending to wee her. "Rosalyn? I thought you wouldn''te to visit your husband here," he said. I blinked in surprise. My gaze flicked to Leonidas, who was in the middle of taking a sip of wine only to nearly choke on it. His eyes darted toward me, then back to her. "Oh, holy shit. You''ve got to be kidding me." Subscribed Chapter 114 Chapter 114: Meet You Again Ruby''s POV 1 never imagined this day woulde. Of all the ces on Earth to explore, why did it have to be Aberdeen? If I reconsider the distance, this ce is far from the Sundrench Kingdom. In other words, this city is where my past life ended and where I started anew from nothing. More importantly, I haven''t received any news about the presence of a Lycan here. My hands clenched at my sides as I stood there, my breath hitching painfully. Across the room, he stood tall and imposing. Killian Rudwick. My first love. My executioner. He didn''t recognize me in this form. That was an advantage for me. Even so, it wasn''t enough to stop the cold tremor threatening to consume me entirely. I feared every worst possibility that could unfold. Meeting Leonidas was already disastrous enough. At least he only knew me as Rosalyn, the clumsy woman at the supermarket. His one eye widened slightly, and for a moment, I caught something in his usual humorous gaze, an incredulous disbelief that we had crossed paths again here. The corner of his lips twitched into a smirk. "Ah, little wolf. We meet again." "Unfortunately." 1 forced myself to respond with a wry smile to Leonidas, acting normal like someone merely annoyed, even though my pulse thundered beneath my skin. Killian still looked the same, as if time itself had refused to touch him. His ck hair was always slightly tousled, his sharp crimson eyes capable of stripping someone bare with a single nce. Tall, strong, wrapped in effortless authority. How many centuries had passed? Of course, it wouldn''t affect him. Long before I became Ruby, he had already lived for over a thousand years. "So cold. And here I was hoping for a warm greeting, the Beta said in a yful tone. "That might have happened if only you behaved like a respectable man." That remark drew various reactions from the wolves who overheard. They knew me as the Beta''s wife, someone who disliked drama or unnecessarymotion. Witnessing this firsthand was a rare urrence, especially against the Beta of the Sundrench Kingdom. But this wasn''t my fault. Leonidas had started it. I felt like he had only grown more insufferable despite all the time that had passed. "Remind me to take etiquette lessons, then." "I''m not your errand girl," I snapped. Leonidas''sughter echoed. To him, this seemed like a childish game like teasing a preschool friend. But to me, it wasn''t. I was still annoyed with him because of the incident a few days ago. Mikael''s voice pulled me back to the present. His sharp gaze flicked between me and Leonidas. "You two know each other?" I was just about to open my mouth, but Leonidas was faster, answering first with his irritating smirk. "We met at the supermarket yesterday. Almost knocked over an entire disy of canned food. Truly tragic." I shot him a sharp re. Mikael was a possessive man despite his humorous nature and asional toddler-like behavior. I could feel his mood shift the moment he heard Leonidas''s little confession. I hadn''t told him about the incident, and now this was bound to make him overthink. "And you, Rosalyn?" My throat tightened. ¡°In short, I tripped while reaching for groceries. And thanks to Beta Leonidas for helping me that day." Mikael still looked skeptical. He could still sense my mixed emotions through our bond. I felt relieved when his expression softened slightly, signaling that he wouldn''t turn this into a bigger issue. "Why didn''t I hear about this at all, love?" I rolled my eyes at the overly affectionate tone. This man had no sense of ce. I elbowed his stomach and hissed at him to behave. On the other hand, Killian remainedpletely sent ng utterly uninterested in everything happening before him. "So, you''re Beta Mikael''s wife?" Leonidas asked Sessfully unlocked! "As you can see." "The world really is small, isn''t it?" I took a deep breath, trying to calm myself. A panic attack washed over me again. The tips of my fingers trembled, and my Chapter 114 Meet You Again heartbeat quickened. "Forgive me. I just need a moment." I turned to Mikael, shifting the conversation. "This is about your great-grandmother She''s been very weaktely. The healers have done their best, but we''re expected to visit her." Mikael blinked, momentarily caught off guard before worry settled onto his face. I nodded, confirming the unspoken question in his eyes. "I want us to see her as soon as possible. Luna is there as well, Mikael." "Thank you, Rosalyn. I appreciate the information. In that case, we should leave immediately." At that moment, Alpha Jaden entered, looking tense. Whatever conversation we were about to have was put on hold as Mikael turned to his Alpha. "Jaden, are you alright?" Jaden waved a dismissive hand, briefly ncing toward the Lycan King. "Nothing I can''t handle. I''m sure you''ve both heard the news. Please represent me." "We will," I replied. I tried not to look at Killian. But standing this close to him, the memories wed their way back. The warmth of his touch, the way he used to whisper my name. And then, the cold steel of his sword against my throat. I needed to leave. Mikael was a cooperative partner. He took the initiative, offering a final respectful farewell before pulling me out of the hall. He must have noticed something in my expression because as soon as the room emptied, he pulled me aside, kissed me, and whispered soothing words. He brushed my hair back, holding me tightly for a moment until I calmed down. We eventually parked along a quiet road, far from the noise of the family''s house. Silence stretched between us before Mikael finally spoke. "Judging by your past memories, I take it you''ve known both of them for a very long time." I clenched my coat, staring ahead as I nodded in response. Mikael exhaled through his nose, his fingers tapping lightly against the steering wheel. "I''m quite surprised that my brother managed to bring that ruthless Lycan King into our pack. An alliance is good," he turned to me, an unreadable expression crossing his face. "But in my opinion, his reputation still makes me dislike him. Especially after what happened to you." I let out a hollowugh. "Well, it wasn''t exactly a pleasant past." A long pause followed. Then Mikael''s voice came, softer this time. "Rosalyn. You know you''re not Ruby anymore. You''ve left that hell behind." The lump in my throat made it almost impossible to breathe. Tears welled at the corners of my eyes. Mikael leaned in, pressing a kiss to my forehead. "I will protect you. Always." Subscribed Chapter 115 Chapter 115: ck and White Part! Chapter 115: ck and White Part I Killian''s POV The hum of the engine filled the sleek ck Lamborghini as we navigated the winding road toward the kingdom. The scent of damp earth and pine drifted through the slightly cracked window, a casualty of our encounter with some rogue troublemakers. Two yellow signs marked the fact that we were far from the decadent air of Aberdeen. Our magical gates were still a few kilometers away. Even so, the modern city lingered in my mind. Its expensive wine aromas, the perfume of wealthy nobles, and the lingering memory of the final moments of that formal gathering. Rosalyn Torrance. I ran my fingers through my hair, exhaling sharply. The woman''s face was etched into my memory as if fate had cruelly carved it there on purpose. It was maddening. We didn''t even know each other. She shouldn''t be bothering me. I wiped my face, but the image wouldn''t fade. The sharp lines of her cheekbones, the warmth of her deep green eyes, the fiery red hair that burned like a phoenix''s spirit¨Cher posture, everything about her was different. And yet, the way she spoke, the way she carried herself. It was exactly like Ruby Lucienne. More than that, Rosalyn was married. The golden band on her finger gleamed under the crystal chandelier''s light, just like the one on her husband''s hand. Beta Mikael. They were affectionate and harmonious so much so that it made me envious. I could have had that picture-perfect life if I hadn''t been such a fool back then. I frowned. That feeling was creeping in again. The aura, the colors, the scent. Even though it was now mixed with that of her mate, I could still recognize it. The soft sweetness of daisies, tinged with a trace of honey. It was hers. My lover''s scent. I must be losing my mind. What were the chances that she was Ruby''s reincarnation? Probably zero. A low melody began to y, filtering through the car''s speakers. "Listen" by Galea. Fitting. This song usually did the trick, pushing back all the noise in my head. But not this time. Leonidas, sitting beside me, shifted. "You''ve been quiet since we left, Your Majesty." "That''s how a king is. If he''s silent, it means there are a million things on his mind." Even without turning, I knew he was wearing his usual expressionless face. He scoffed. "That''s an understatement. You haven''t seen a thing in the past hour. Are you going to tell me what''s making your skin crawl?" I didn''t know how to respond. Maybe a little honesty wouldn''t hurt this time. "The meeting went fine," I said, though we both knew that wasn''t what he was asking. "It seems likeing there wasn''t a waste of time. Thanks for your tireless effort in dragging me out of that vi bed." "The meeting? Or the woman?" I turned to see him raising an inquisitive brow. I clicked my tongue. "What about her? What are you talking about?" "I have to say, she kind of reminds me of someone. Not physically." His tone was careful now, as if he knew he was stepping onto fragile ground. "Forgive me, Your Majesty. I don''t mean to be presumptuous. It just hit me now. Her aura... it''s simr to Lady Lucienne''s.¡± I felt a twitch at the corner of my lips. "It''s fine, Beta. I thought the same thing about you." Leonidas looked surprised by my confession. Then, for a brief moment, a hint of softness flickered in his dark eyes. I had already shifted our conversation to another topic, and Leonidas followed along naturally. I didn''t want to get trapped in my own head and end up stuck in a static state. Depression could be terrifying. So could PTSD. And we both knew what that meant or rather what it could lead to. But that was a thought for another time. The journey continued in silence, save for the gentle melody filling the car. By the time we reached the kingdom, the sky had turned dark, the stars barely visible behind the dense canopy of trees. The gates opened, and as we pulled up to the grand estate, a new face greeted us. Sean, the new head butler. His uniform. was pristine, his posture still stiff with discipline, a stark contrast to Beatrice, who had served me for centuries before time finally took her away. This time, I had chosen a male butler. He bowed deeply. "Your Majesty. Wee home. How was your journey?" I stepped out of the car, rolling my shoulders. "No need for formalities, Sean. The trip went smoothly." Everyone was still adjusting to my character de Sessfully unlocked! 1. d. Sessfully unlocked! thless tyrant. But the arrogance had dimmed, and the sharp, condescending remarks no long at on t the woman who had once tried to teach me. 163 had learned that from the best. One final lesson from Sean offered a warm smile. "Then allow me to summon the maids to prepare a bath for you to rx." "That won''t be necessary, Sean. I''d like to be alone this time." Chapter 115 ck and White Part! "Understood, Your Majesty." I gave a polite nod in return and turned toward my private chambers. Meanwhile, Leonidas had already headed back to the barracks to discuss the new recruits joining today. My footsteps echoed through the castle''s corridors, past staircases and framed portraits of my ancestors. The structure of this ce had remained unchanged despite the passage of time, except for its inhabitants. By the time I reached my private bath, I finally became aware of the exhaustion clinging to my bones. The room had been renovated on the orders of the mind healers, designed to block the memory triggers that could spiral into mental chaos. Sometimes, I missed its old appearance. Now, the room had a simple relief design with a natural color scheme that was soothing to the eyes. A steaming pool sat at its center, fed by a natural hot spring. I shed my clothes and stepped into the water, hissing as the heat seeped into my muscles. Tilting my head back against the edge, I closed my eyes. Bit by bit, the tension in my body unraveled. Momentster, a voice familiar and deeply missed for centuries broke the silence. Elysian and I had been mending our fractured bond ever since I fell apart. "Hey, ugly king." I let out a sigh at his terrible sense of humor. "Seriously, El. You do realize that the one you''re insulting is half of yourself too?" He leaned back casually. "Yeah, well, I just enjoy making your blood pressure rise." "Pick another day if you''re looking to piss me off," I shot back, unimpressed. "Killian?" I only let out a vague hum in response, sinking deeper into the pleasant rxation. "I''m curious about that woman, Rosalyn. And maybe she''s our mate." A bitter taste filled my mouth at Elysian''s words. "She''s already married." A painful growl rumbled through our link. My wolf curled up in the mindscape, baring his fangs. "Who cares? She still belongs to us!" "Don''t be ridiculous, El." The truth was, I didn''t know if my guess was right. And if it was, I wasn''t ready to decide which was worse that she might be Ruby, reborn and happy, or that my hope of chasing her love again had already crumbled halfway. The bath did little to ease my thoughts, and after a while, I got out, dried myself off, and slipped into casual royal attire, dark trousers and a loose white shirt. As if pulled by invisible strings, I found myself heading toward a ce I hadn''t visited in a long time. The music room. It was still the same. I had refused to change it, despite Leonidas lecturing me to the point of burning my ears. A grand piano sat in the center, polished and always waiting to be yed. A row of small audience chairs lined the right side. And a mini stage, where several other instruments stood aspanions to the piano. This had been Ruby''s favorite ce. As I closed my eyes and inhaled the scent of memories lingering in the air, for a fleeting moment, I felt as if I had returned to that time. An old longing slowly filled the emptiness in my heart, causing my wolf to whimper in sorrow just like his master. I sat in front of the piano, my fingers hovering over the keys before pressing down, coaxing the first notes of ir de Lune by Debussy to life. The melody was engaging and euphonious. The kind that hypnotized both the yer and the listener. My vision blurred as I yed. Tears fell, streaking down my cheeks. It felt as if a thousand poisoned des were piercing my heart, as I fell, again and again, into the depths of my old love. Would Ruby praise my ying if she was here? Or perhaps she would sit beside me and join in, weaving a duet of romance as the evening faded into dusk? God, I miss her. Please, if I am not meant to have her again, then just let her be born once more, and grant me the chance to atone for every sin Imitted against her. Take a piece of my immortality and cast me into your hell if that is what it takes. I hope you, my gods, hear my prayer through the painful melody of this song. ¿Ú Subscribed 0 Likes Chapter 116 ck and White Part # Chapter 116 Chapter 116: ck and White Part II Killian''s POV The musical perfomance went on for a long time, in harmony with thepanion. "Your performance is beautiful! Please, keep ying I practically smiled with pride. "Well, I tried my best topete with you" "Alright, stop being so smug, oh arrogant king. Keep dancing on those keys and let me hear it all day" she pleaded between her whining. ''As you wish, my queen." Because of that request, I pushed myself to present my performance as perfectly as possible. Ruby seemed to love my talent and praised me for it. That made me happy. I had no idea how long I kept ying. Maybe ten hours or more. I found it hard to guess the exact number. By now, the entire kingdom must have been growing restless. The servants whispered nervously in the hallways, and the guards stood stiffly at their posts, exchanging uneasy nces. I didn''t care as long as Ruby was pleased. "Killian, why does the melody sound different?" I furrowed my brow in confusion. I was sure I was ying the notes correctly. But after a few more minutes, I realized the change. At first, the music was beautiful, romantic, and full of warmth. But as time passed, the melody cared darker emotions: despair, sorrow, and violence. The notes crashed against the walls like waves in a storm, echoing through the grand hall, pulling everyone into madness. No one dared to interrupt. No one knew how to stop it. Except for Ruby. She said she didn''t like this new melody. I wanted to tell her that it was special, just for her but then, I suddenly heard Ruby''s sobs. Panic surged through me. I tried to ask her what was wrong without stopping my hands from ying the piano. Instead of an answer, Ruby wrapped her arms around me from the side and whispered that she loved me. "I''ve always wished to see you like this one day, Killian.* I couldn''t remember when my fingers had gone numb; the pain was nothing more than a jokepared to what I had endured in the past. Blood pooled on the ivory keys, seeping into the crevices. My hands trembled, my knuckles had turned white, and my skin was rough and torn from hours of torment. My breath came in ragged gasps, my vision blurred in ces. Everything was spinning. "Killian!" A voice cut through the haze. It felt familiar. But when I tried to ce it. I failed. Footsteps struck the marble floor before skidding to a halt in front of me. One golden eye, wild with panic, stared at me. Behind him, Sean held his ground, his usual calm barely masking his concern. Only then did I realize-it was Leonidas. "WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING?!" he shouted. "Killian, stop!" Leonidas grabbed me, but the moment his hand touched my shoulder, my body jolted violently. "Hey! Focus your eyes on me!" ¡°Get your hands off me, you wretched creature!¡± I snapped, my gaze darting wildly. "Great. My new title is just delightful, huh? Damn it, you''re barely breathing!" He tried to pull me away, but my body refused to cooperate. My limbs were frozen in ce, unwilling to move from the piano bench. My thoughts drifted not to the one person I had always loved. Panic and frustration surged through me. I could feel her presence as if she were still here with me. Then where was she now?! I was alone! A sorrowful howl, reminiscent of my wolf, Elysian, tore from my throat. "You believe me, don''t you?" I whimpered like a lost child. "I saw Rubye here! Isn''t that funny?" Leonidas''s eyes widened as he processed the words his king had just spoken. He shook his head and grabbed my shoulders, shaking me violently. "For God''s sake! Again?! Damn it, you wretched king! Wake up!" "Killian Rudwick!" I tilted my head as Leonidas waved his hand ir Sessfully unlocked! its hazy in my vision. I let out an irritated growl, swatting his arm away. Instead of listening, I began ying on from feeling sad again. "Please, Killian. This isn''t real!" e Ruby would love, one that would keep her I lifted my gaze to meet his, my eyes dark with sorrow. "Do you doubt me, Beta?¡± Chapter 116 ck and White Part II His mouth fell open, and more curses spilled from his lips. Some of his words filled me with such hatred that, at one point, I finally realized something. My eyes flickered around the room. My pulse pounded in my ears. "Leonidas," I whispered again. ¡°I''m ying for her. She asked me to. I swear!" But the truth was no one here. Only the golden glow of the pce''s grand chandeliers, shining brightly, and the torturous silence where music had once filled the space. "Killian, I''ve already told you. It''s all just a mirage," he rasped. "She''s gone," Leonidas emphasized. "She has been gone for centuries!" "Ruby Lucienne is alive!" The chair ttered to the floor as I lunged to my feet. My hands lifted from the piano, smearing blood across its polished wood. "Let me make this clear to you. She spoke to me. And you know? She told me she loves me more than anything!" Grief was written all over his face. "My king, you''re hallucinating." I mmed all ten fingers onto the piano, sending a shrill, piercing note through the air. Everyone in the room clutched their ears. I red at them all, my breathing ragged. "She used my first name, you know. She likes..." "Enough! Please!" My chest felt tight. My body trembled, every inch of me screaming for someone who, in reality, would never breathe again. My vision spun. The room swirled around me. And then, I felt it. The moment my strength failed. My knees buckled. My life force drained from me all at once. "Damn it!" Leonidas caught me just before I copsed. "Sean, get help NOW!" I thrashed in his grip like a wild animal refusing to be caged. "Let go of me! I won''t tolerate your insolence just because we share the same ancestral blood!" Then came the pain, one that shut down every system in my body. A sharp blow to the back of my neck. Leonidas''s fist. Thest thing I remembered was the apologetic look on my Beta''s face. When I woke up, my head pounded as if it had been split in two. My body ached, my throat burned. And my hands! I hurried to check them, only to find all ten fingers wrapped in fresh bandages. The sharp scent of antiseptic filled the room. I flexed my fingers, wincing at the sting. Great. I had ruined them again. "Ah, the corpse awakens." Leonidas''s sarcastic voice was the first thing to greet me. He was slouched in the chair beside my bed, arms crossed, his expression unimpressed. I groaned, pressing the back of my hand against my forehead. "What happened?" Leonidas shot me a re. "Oh, you know, just the usualte-night madness. Ten hours of ying the piano, fingers bleeding, a full-blown breakdown over your long-dead lover, hallucinations, and," He took a breath before continuing, "A tantrum that nearly gave Sean a heart attack, and me knocking you out because you wouldn''t stop screaming. Want me to go on?" My blood ran cold at his confession. I mped a hand over my mouth, my breathing heavy. I tried to remember, but no matter how many times I forced myself to train my memory from scratch, I always failed. Nothing. Leonidas leaned forward. The subtle code in his expression was enough for me to understand. I averted my gaze, my eyesnding on the fresh wounds along my knuckles once more, a testament to the destruction I had inflicted upon myself. I swallowed hard. "Forgive me, Leonidas. I didn''t realize at all. I lost control." "Damn it, you scared the hell out of me!" Leonidas half-yelled. Then, his tone softened. "You don''t need to worry about me. I''m fine. What I want to know is you. Are you okay, Killian?" "Listen," Leonidas sighed, running a hand through his hair so roughly that a few strands came loose. "I know you loved her. I know she still haunts you. But making a mess of yourself won''t bring the dead back, Your Majesty." I clenched my jaw. "So, what do you expect me to do? Forget her?" Chapter 116 ck and White Part II "No," he said grimly. "But I do expect you to hold on. You''re my cousin. You''re also a King. And I can''t stand watching you destroy yourself like this." I stayed silent as Leonidasunched into a lecture. It went on for more than half an hour. I didn''t interrupt him once. I knew this was my fault. With a deep sigh, Leonidas stood up. "Get some rest. I''m not going anywhere." "Thanks, loser." He stopped, then smirked over his shoulder. "Next time, cry like a normal person instead of giving the entire pce a heart attack." "Noted, Beta." Subscribed 0 Lik Chapter 117 Chapter 117: Good News for Torrance Family Ruby''s POV "Look, Alice! The ne is flying!" Alice''s eyes widened like a baseball. "Woah! You''re so good at making it. Make one for me too!" "Hm, sure. As long as you pay me with the two candies in your pocket!" Alice pouted at her twin''s offer. She rummaged through her pocket and clutched the two candies Anna had requested. "Is there ever a time when you don''t turn everything into a business?" she grumbled. Anna snatched the colorful candies and grinned. "Dad says we have to be smart. So, this is one way to do it. I''m not wrong." "Yeah, okay. Now do your job. I''ve already paid you!" "Aye aye, captain!" The children''s cheerfulughter echoed through the house, a melody of pure happiness filling every corner. Alice and Anna ran to the kitchen, their tiny feet stomping on the wooden floor, their toys clutched tightly in their hands as they chased the soaring paper ne. The sweet scent of vani and melting chocte wrapped around us like a warm embrace, and I couldn''t help but smile as I stirred the batter with love. My mood had improved ever since Mikael helped me fix it. Alice''s impatient voice broke through my thoughts as she tugged at my apron. "Mom, is it ready?" "Not yet, sweetheart," I chuckled, tapping a bit of flour onto the tip of her nose. She giggled, scrunching her nose as she wiped it off. "Are you already hungry? Isn''t your snack still in the little cupboard in your room?" "But we want to eat Mommy''s cooking." "In that case, Alice, you''ll have to be patient, okay?" Anna climbed onto the table, her bright green eyes sparkling mischievously. I knew she had an idea just like her twin. "Is there anything we can help with, Mommy?" I pretended to sigh dramatically, cing my hands on my hips. "I suppose I do need some expert decorators." The twins cheered, pping their flour-dusted hands and sending a small white cloud into the air. Shaking my head, I ced the freshly baked cake onto the cooling rack. The golden sponge was warm and soft, filling the air with a delicious aroma that made both girls bounce with excitement. "Can we taste it now?" Alice asked eagerly, reaching out her hands. "The cake looks so delicious." "Not before we decorate it," I warned, giving them a disapproving look. "You both promised to help, remember?" They groaned in unison but quickly grabbed the small piping bags and sprinkles I had prepared. As I spread the chocte frosting over the cake, the twins took turns adding colorful sprinkles and tiny edible pearls. Theirughter rang out as more frosting ended up on their hands than on the cake itself. Just as we ced the final cherry on top, the front door swung open. "Daddy''s home!" Anna shrieked, jumping down from the stool. The twins ran toward the entrance, their tiny feet stomping against the floor. I turned just in time to see Mikael effortlessly scoop them up, his richughter filling the room as they clung to him. "You missed me, didn''t you?" he asked with a yful grin. "We made a cake, Daddy!" Alice reported, puffing out her chest proudly. "And cookies!" "Really? I hope they''re actually edible," Mikael teased, feigning surprise. "They are! Mommy let us help! Don''t underestimate us, Daddy!" Alice pouted and yfully smacked her father, only to be showered with kisses until both she and Anna burst into fits of giggles. I chuckled softly, wiping my hands with a cloth as I watched them fondly. Mikael''s dark hair was tousled, and his clothes were dusted with bits of dried leaves and dirt. He must have just returned from the forest. His strong arms still held the twins effortlessly, their small faces beaming up at him with pure joy. As I tidied up the kitchen, I listened to my daughte praised them with exaggerated enthusiasm, m Sessfully unlocked! unting their baking adventure to Mikael. He erly offered him a taste. I helped the twins cut the cake they had worked so hard on, and Mikael took a bite, humming thoughtfully. "Mmm. Not bad," he teased, shing me a mischievous look. "Of course, it''s nothingpared to your mother''s." I raised an eyebrow, pretending to be annoyed. "Are you saying my students need more practice?" Chapter 117 Gond Heys to Torranca Family He grinned, taking another bite. "I mean, their teacher is hard to beat" The twine were too focused on devouring their own slices to notice when Mikael leaned in and stole a kiss, his lips brushing against mine with the faint taste of chocte cream Warmth spread through my chest, and I smiled against his lips before pulling away "Ew, Dad! Hot in front of us!" Alice scrunched up her nose. Mikael smirked. "What? Your mom is just too sweet" Anna shook her head dramatically. "Grown-ups are so weird." We exchanged nces and burst intoughter. I wondered where our children learned to talk like that. Their quick wit made me anxious about what they''d be like when they grew up. Hopefully not troublemakers. Please, dear God, no. As the girls finished their cake, they jumped down from their seats and grabbed Mikael''s hands. "Come y with us, Daddy!" Mikael sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I would, my little wolves, but I just got back from patrol. I need to clean up first." The twins pouted but eventually gave in. I promised them some new toys they could pick outter at the mall. It had been so long since hest took them to have fun with other kids at the children''s y center. Their moods shifted instantly. They ran off to the living room, already nning their next game. I walked toward Mikael, brushing my hand over his arm. "Sit down. I''ll make you some tea." "You''re a lifesaver," His eyes softened as he let out a breath. But as I prepared the tea, a sudden wave of dizziness hit me. I gripped the edge of the table, my vision swirling into a gray blur. Nausea surged up my throat until I decided to rush to the nearest bathroom and empty my stomach. Mikael was beside me in an instant, rubbing my back. "Rosalyn?" I closed my eyes and took a deep breath. "I''m fine. Just a little dizzy," "You''re overworking yourself. You haven''t stopped making a mess in this kitchen since morning, have you?" "It''s nothing serious," I reassured him, letting myself be guided by his steady hands. Then, a thought struck me. I blinked, my mind retracing the past few weeks. Today was the 22nd. My eyes widened slightly as realization dawned on me. Mikael immediately noticed the sudden shift in my expression. "My love? Tell me what''s wrong?" I turned to him, pressing a hand to my stomach. "Mikael, I think I might be pregnant." His eyes widened, and for a moment, he stood there frozen like a fool. With his jaw hanging that low, he was bound to swallow a few flies. Then, slowly, a joyful, radiant smile spread across his face. "You think so?" he asked, his voice almost breathless. I nodded, just as overjoyed. "I just realized I''ve missed my period, and now I''m nauseous and dizzy too, hubbie!" A deep, rumblingugh escaped him, and before I knew it, he had lifted me into his arms, spinning me around. I gasped, myughter mingling with his. "I should''ve stayed home today," he murmured against my forehead, nting a kiss there. "I don''t want to miss a single second of this journey." "You''re the father, Mikael. Of course, the baby will be happy to have you around." "Alright. Let''s take care of you first before I drag a healer over, she said hurriedly. For a moment, I was able to push aside the memories of someone I didn''t wish to name. And now, there was a third life waiting to be cared for. ¿Ú Subscribed Chapter 118 Ruby''s POV News of my third pregnancy spread like wildfire throughout the Bloodmoon Pack. Everywhere I turned, there were whispers, smiles, and warm congrattions. The twins were the most excited of all. Those two adorable little balls of energy wouldn''t stop talking about how they would soon have a new ymate. And Mikael, oh, dear heavens, my loving yet utterly embarrassing husband. He took every chance to announce it to anyone willing to listen. "My beautiful wife is having another pup!" he dered during the morning meeting, standing tall with a proud grin. "I am the happiest man in the world!" The entire pack burst intoughter and cheers at their Beta''s antics. As a result, my face burned with embarrassment. I shot him a sharp look before marching over and tugging at his shirt. "Mikael Torrance, did you really have to yell that loud?" He leaned down, mischief dancing in his green eyes. "What? It''s the truth." I let out an exasperated sigh, crossing my arms. "There was no need for a royal promation." "You''re adorable when you scold me." Mikael chuckled, pulling me into his arms despite my continued scolding. Pregnancy came with many surprises. Not only did my body feel heavier, but gifts also poured in from Mikael''s colleagues and friends. It felt strange being showered with presents even before giving birth. Sitting on our bed, I unwrapped them one by one, Mikael beside me with his armzily draped over my shoulders. "This is too much," I murmured, unfolding a soft, handwoven nket. "I''m only three weeks along." A smirk formed on Mikael''s lips. "They love you, Rosalyn. Besides, this little pup is already the pack''s favorite." ¡°That''s all thanks to their father, who keeps running a campaign for his baby," I quipped. He scratched his head despite it not itching with a sheepish grin. He had been like this when I was pregnant with the twins too. I should have been used to it by now. But Mikael had so many peculiar quirks that he still managed to surprise me. I pulled out a tiny onesie embroidered with the pack''s emblem and held it up. "Did Luna of the Raven Pack really send this?" Mikael nodded with a pout. "Yep. She said it''s to make sure the baby knows its roots." Noticing the shift in his tone and expression, I narrowed my eyes and leaned toward him. "You don''t seem to like that woman. Why?" I shot him the question. "Nobody likes her. She''s got a terrible attitude." He shrugged nonchntly. "She also insulted you right in front of me. I wasn''t having any of that, so well, let''s just say things escted." I stifled augh, amused by his usual way of handling things. ¡°Alright, no need to dwell on it. We''ll take the gift and ignore the giver." A carefreeugh slipped from my lips. Mikael had his own way of dealing with problems, so I was grateful he had stood up for me. I turned my attention back to the gifts in front of us. Among them were handcrafted wooden toys, soft baby shoes, and a set of luxurious furs meant for our child''s bedding. The generosity overwhelmed me. I deeply appreciated their sincerity, though I also felt the urge to give back in kind. Usually, it was apanied by social gatherings my least favorite thing. Ink-like darkness bled into the once-clear sky as night settled in, and an odd craving surfaced. I couldn''t suppress it; my mouth was already watering at the thought of that food. "Mikael," I murmured, nudging his side as wey in bed. He groaned, half-asleep, in response. "Mmm?" "I want cup noodles with a boiled egg." His eyes slowly cracked open. "Right now?" I nodded, feigning innocence. With a long sigh, he dragged himself out of bed and disappeared into the kitchen. A few minutester, he returned with two steari something changed I suddenly wasn''t hungry nt of me. But just as I took my first bite, Sessfully unlocked! Mikael, noticing this, raised an eyebrow. "Don''t tell me you..." I grinned sheepishly, pushing the bowl toward him with an apologetic smile. "I''m sorry." Chapter 118: I Choose You, Beta He groaned and, without another word, epted his fate, now stuck with two portions. I stifled augh as he ate with exaggerated misery, slurping the noodles like a defeated man. I knew my husband''s habits. One of them was that he absolutely hated wasting food. "You''re terrible," he rumbled between bites. "I''m going to be bloated with noodles" I leaned against him and kissed his cheek. "You''re my beloved green g. Just finish up, and we''ll go back to beg After my craving was satisfied, Mikael coaxed me back into bed. I curled up in his warmth, my fingers clutching he shes tossed and turned, searching for a "Another nightmare?" he asked softly. I shook my head. "I just can''t sleep, mate. It''s frustrating." "Tomorrow, I''ll call the healer. You probably need some medicine, especially a sleeping potion. Look at those dark circles, love." His arms tightened around me. Afortable silence stretched between us until Mikael spoke again. "Are you still thinking about your past life?" The question caught me off guard. I turned to face him, meeting his gaze. Emerald meeting amber. There was no point in lying, and I hated doing so to the man I loved. "Yes. But please, Mikael, keep this a secret. I don''t want the past to repeat itself." He exhaled, his hand gently caressing my cheek. For a brief moment, I caught a glimpse of the weight he canted. "I''m afraid you''ll want to go back." I shook my head firmly, cing my hand over his heart. "I have you, the twins, and this little one. Why would I ever leave?" "I''m d you answered honestly," he murmured, his anxiety now gone. "My heart is right in front of you, Mikael. Take it and love it." His lips met mine in a sacred kiss as if sealing the truth of my words. I melted into him, his touch both sensual and tender Wrapped in his embrace, I finally allowed sleep to take me, knowing I was safe in his arms. "I already took it long ago, Rosalyn Torrance." Chapter 119 Chapter 119: Healing the Soul Killian''s POV This is the session I have loathed all my life. The therapy room was silent, the only sound was the rhythmic ticking of the clock. I sat in a high-backed chair across from the mind healer, Dr. Estelle Morrigan, an old wolf with wise eyes and a warmth that could soften even the most guarded conversationalists. She observed me carefully, her pen tapping lightly against her notebook before she finally spoke. "Your Majesty, tell me how you''ve been feeling since ourst session." I let out azy sigh. "Same, nothing special." "Hm, ording to your Beta''s report, you''ve been experiencing severe hallucinations to the point where it''s difficult to distinguish reality from illusion. Am I correct?" "Yes. I''m not proud to admit it." Estelle offered a gentle smile. ¡°Everyone feels the same way, Your Majesty. The fact that you''ve taken the step to acknowledge it is already a good start. So, is there anything else you can tell me?" I rubbed my temples. "I can barely sleep. And when I do, the nightmares never stop. Music helps, but Leonidas forbade me from ying after what happenedst time." She jotted something down. "Noted. Because you yed for ten hours straight and ruined your hands in the process?" I didn''t answer. It was both a moment of spectaculer and sorrow. No sane person would y an instrument for that long. If that Beta hadn''te to find me, I might have kept going far beyond what my fingers could count. She sighed, adjusting her posture. "Do you have troubling thoughts, Your Majesty?" "Every day." There was no surprise in her expression, as if she had already anticipated my answer before I even spoke. She asked another clinical question. "Have you done anything about it?" I shook my head. "I''ve only relied on your help. Nothing more." "I can see that," she said, making another note. "From my perspective, you''re punishing yourself, Killian. Drowning in guilt. You cannot bring back the dead, no matter how much you suffer for them." I averted my gaze, staring at the snowced window. "I''m not a toddler who doesn''t understand that, miss." "If that''s the case." She tilted her head, resting both hands on herp. "Then all I see is a king who refuses to heal." "That''s not entirely true. Who in their right mind would want to be unwell?" I asked usingly. "I''m sure no one does. But some choose to be just to survive." Her answer silenced me instantly. It was an undeniable truth; one I couldn''t refute because I was part of the group she had just described. If I weren''t, I would have lost his shadow in my mind, and that would mean losing him forever. Silence stretched between us as she noted our next appointment. Then, she ced a small bottle on the table between us. "Your prescription. I''ve increased the dosage. You need stronger intervention." I picked up the bottle, turning it between my fingers. An increased dosage meant I was getting worse. "I hope you take it, Your Majesty," she said firmly. "You may be strong, but even a Lycan has limits." The session ended with a respectful bow from her. Even after she left, my eyes remained fixed on the bottle. I hated taking medicine. Let alone having to take additional vitamins. A knock on the door snapped me out of my thoughts. "My King? May Ie in?" I exhaled, recognizing the voice instantly. It seemed the butler was even more talkative than Beatrice. Sometimes, I could hardly tolerate his constant nagging, even if his intentions were good. I was wondering if they were rted. "Come in." Sean stepped inside, his hands neatly folded behind his back. "You have skipped two meals, Your Majesty. I''m afraid this will take a toll on your health." "Not hungry, Sean." Sessfully unlocked! "Your Majesty, this is a bad habit," he dered, firmer this time. "At the very least, allow me to bring you something light." I ran a hand through my hair. The man wouldn''t back down, so I sighed. "Fine." Chapter 119 Healing the Soul Sean nodded, swiftly leaving and returning momentster with a silver tray. Steak, baked potatoes, and warm rolls. My stomach twisted at the sight. The first bite tasted ordinary just the familiarfort of homemade food. The second felt like lead. I forced myself to chew, swallow, repeat. Each bite was a battle on a war- torn field. Sean didn''t leave, waiting patiently for me to eat, knowing full well that I had tricks to make food disappear "I don''t think I can finish it." Sean remained firm. "There''s only a little left, Your Majesty. You can do it." in an instant. Atst, I forced the final bite into my mouth, praying I wouldn''t throw up immediately. Then, the door mmed open blinked nkly as Leonidas strode in, grinning. "Look who''s still alive. Barely." I raised an eyebrow, questioning his statement. "Charming. What do you want?" "Status report. Starting with the barracks stable condition, no threats. But the real highlight?" He grinned, setting his work documents on the table. "Some juicy gossip from the Bloodmoon Pack." I snarled, "Why do you care about another pack''s drama?" "Because I have social skills." I exhaled, rubbing my already throbbing temples. I had no desire to continue this pointless conversation. Yet, he leaned against the wall, standing his groundpletely. "Alright, I''ll get straight to the point. Beta Mikael''s wife is pregnant." "Yes, and?" "That''s it?!" I ran a hand over my face, failing to understand Leonidas'' reaction. Still, I couldn''t shake the image of a harmonious family weing a new member. Something I would never have. I rested my hand against my jaw. It pulsed as always. The only difference was that this time, it felt like a severed longing, leaving behind nothing but empty numbness. It shouldn''t be like this. Leonidas studied me. "Your Majesty, are you alright?" "I am. Please, buy a gift and have it sent to their pack as a token from our kingdom." He tilted his head, surprised by my response. "You''re serious?" "Yes, Leonidas. Just do it." "If that''s what you want." After he left, Sean quickly cleared away the remnants of my meal before shutting the grand doors. Rosalyn was pregnant. Just like Elysian. I felt torn between difort and gratitude, knowing that it meant Scond''s wolf poption would grow. I swept my hair back. "What the hell is wrong with my head?" Subscribed Chapter 120 Chapter 120 I Know You Part I Chapter 120: I Know You Part I Ruby''s POV "The weird old wolfie!" "So annoying!" "We should''ve just thrown that mud right at his face!" The front door mmed open with a force that shook the walls, and the sound of angry footsteps filled the house. I barely had time to look up from kneading the dough when Alice and Anna stormed in, their little faces twisted with frustration. Still dressed in their school uniforms, their arms were crossed, eyebrows furrowed, and their pouts were perfectly in sync with their theatrical scowls. This was not the sight I had expected when they came home. Mikael and I had deliberately asked Joelyn, Mikael''s sister, to pick up the twins because she wanted to stop by the bookstore, which happened to be near the twins'' kindergarten. Joelyn had been eager to spend time with them since it had been a while since shest saw them ever since she left for university outside of Aberdeen. They were known for sulking, but the twins rarely got angry. That''s why Mikael and I exchanged questioning nces. Was this because of one of Joelyn''s pranks? That seemed unlikely, considering Joelyn was their favorite. Mikael, who was sitting at the dining table, frowned. "What''s this? A rebellion?" "We''re furious!" Alice made an exasperated face and tossed her bag onto a chair. "And mad!" Anna followed suit, stomping up to the table and mming a small box onto it. "That mean uncle called us chicks! And short!" I exchanged nces with Mikael, who was barely holding back hisughter. Clearing my throat, I wiped my flour-dusted hands on my apron and walked toward my furious daughters. "What happened, my loves?" I asked gently, crouching down to their level. "There''s no smoke without fire, right?" Alice raised her fist in the air. "We were walking home, minding our own business after Aunt Joelyn dropped us off at the gate. Then this one-eyed man said we looked like chicks, not wolves!" Anna nodded furiously. "And that we''re still too small to be fierce! He said we need another ten years before we even look scary!" I bit my lip to keep fromughing, but Mikael wasn''t as subtle. He chuckled and reached out to ruffle Anna''s hair. "Sounds like someone was teasing you, little cubs." Alice swatted his hand away. "It''s not funny!" Mikael raised both hands in mock fear of his daughters'' wrath. Instead of calming them down, it only added fuel to their fiery emotions. He picked up the small box they had brought and examined it. I frowned at the object. "And what''s this?" Mikael asked. Alice crossed her arms and pouted. "The one-eyed man gave it to us for Mom. He said it''s for our little sister." My stomach twisted slightly, already suspecting who this mysterious "one-eyed man" might be. It wasn''t a big deal. Leonidas was probably sent by Killian to deliver it to me, considering he wanted to maintain good rtions with the Bloodmoon Pack. Mikael sighed and rubbed his temples. "That exins a lot." Anna narrowed her eyes. "You know him, Dad?¡± Mikael smiled, pinching her chubby cheek. "Of course. He''s a new friend of mine. And trust me, he only teases the people he likes." Alice didn''t look convinced. Neither did Anna. This was a note for the future never joke about their appearance. Who knew what would happen if someone tried? There might be missing noses and mouths involved. "I still don''t like him," Alice grumbled, earning a firm nod from Anna. "If we ever meet him again, we''ll kick him." "And throw mud cakes at him!" I smoothed her hair and gave her a reassuring smile. ¡°Sometimes, people joke in ways we don''t like, but that doesn''t always mean they mean any harm. How about this? Next time you see him, tell him that you''re strong wolves, not little chicks." Anna grinned mischievously. "And bite him?" Mikael pped his forehead, groaning. "No bit. Sessfully unlocked! "What about kicking, throwing rocks, or hitting him with a broom, Dad?" "That is also very much not allowed, Alice! Where did you even learn this violence?" The twins exchanged nces as if silentlymunicating. While their father was ready to explode over the chaos, his little Chapter 120.1 Know You Pert! princesses were already capable of being rude and we had certainly never taught my duty to shoulders. "We didn''t learn it," Anna muttered with a small pout. "Alice and I saw Uncle Jayden do it" Alice added innocently "ite does to Uodle way use name!" "Isaac, sweetheart," I corrected her "Yes! That''s him!" Mikael took a deep breath, and I rubbed his back, hoping he wouldn''t let out a string of ourses of the brother to the twins not to imitate their Alpha''s bad behavior, reminding them that they were still chilken woods wydar rudely. After this, I was sure Mikael would storm into Alpha Mano Alice let out a long sigh. "Alright. We won''t be like that, promise Satisfied that they had calmed down a little, Mikael stood up with the box in his hande i take this upstairs for two sa here and help your mom, okay?" The twins answered in unison. I guided them to change their clothes and prepared lunch by town. We had ge to take pizza, and the twins were already so excited that theypletely forgo the way There was a knock on the front door, I walked over and opened it to see Leonides standing thes "What''s with all the noise? I could hear the little cubs from outside" Anna turned around and gasped. "It''s the mean uncler I turned as well, and sure enough, Leonidas stood at the doorway, wearing his woud gin "Mean? That''s harsh," he said, stepping inside and closing the door behind him. "And here I thought I was the firm unde Alice and Anna red at him, arms crossed. "We are not little chickst Leonidas raised an eyebrow. "Oh? Then what are you? Kittens?" Anna stuck out her tongue. "Wolves!" Leonidas chuckled. "Alright, alright. Wolves it is. No more talk about chicks" I sighed, shaking my head. "Leonidas, stop teasing them." He gave a soldier-like bow and waved a handkerchief. "Alright, Ie in peace. Actually, I came to talk to you. Do you have a moment?" A single bead of sweat rolled down my spine. I nced at my daughters, who still looked skeptical but had at least stopped pouting. Then, at Mikael, who was already heading upstairs with the gift, giving Leonidas a casual wave. I tited my head. It''s strange. Did Mikael already know Leonidas wasing? And why wasn''t he being as protective as usual? After standing there in silence for too long, I finally decided to ept the invitation. "Of course. Let me just finish up with these two first." Leonidas smiled warmly. "Take your time. I''ll try not to traumatize them any further" Alice and Anna stuck their tongues out at him in unison, and I couldn''t hold back myughter. "Make yourselffortable, Leonidas." "Of course, Ruby." My eyes widened, and I immediately turned to face him. Leonidas wore an unreadable expression, and I felt as if my entire world had just crumbled beneath my feet. "What did you just say?" Chapter 121 Chapter 121:1 Know You Part 11 Ruby''s POV I hadn''t heard that name in years Ruby The name struck me like a kate, fezing me mid-step as I descended the stairs. My hand clenched around the railing, my knuckles turning white. How did Leonidas know? For a moment, I couldn''t breathe. My mind screamed at me to turn around, ran back upstairs, shut the door, and pretend hadn''t heard him, let Mikael deal with Leonidas instead But I knew I couldn''t keep running forever. One day, it wouldn''t be just Leonidas who knew, and the thought of that terified me After all, I wasn''t that woman anymore. I was Rosalyn Torrance, a wife, a mother, a Beta''s mate. Not the woman who had once been part of a past filled with pain, betrayal, and blood 1 steadied myself and forced my fest to move. The twins had already gone off to y theirughter fading into the distance When I reached the bottom of the stars, I wrung my cold hands together before stepping into the sitting room. Leonidas was there, lounging with an air of familiarity as if he belonged His sharp eyes lifted as I entered, scanning me with an expression of quiet ease. It caught me off guard, to say the least. And then, he smirked. "Hey, Lucienne" 1 flinched. My hands clenched at my sides as I shook my head. "That''s not my name anymore! Leonidas let out a soft chuckle, nodding in acknowledgment. "Yeah, it''s not. I suppose Rosalyn suits you better." I watched him warly, waiting for a demand or an order to return, a reminder of where I came from. But it never came. Instead, he leaned back,pletely at ease. "I have to admit, I didn''t expect to see you like this." He gestured vaguely around me. "A cozy home, a husband, children. Domestic life looks good on you" "Is that all you came to say?" I looked at him in disbelief. "What did you expect me to say? Honestly, I was shocked when the woman crushing canned goods at the supermarket turned out to be Ruby Lucienne, the woman who was once my friend," he said. That made me feel conflicted. A mix of sadness and frustration. No one truly understands how the world works, this moment was proof of that. "I didn''t either. My memories only came back after I got married." Leonidas fell silent for a moment. "I can see that. It''s rare for anyone to remember their past life." "It seems like nothing about me is ever normal," I murmured, turning to look out the window at the garden. "How did you know I was Ruby''s reincarnation, Leonidas?" "I had my own theory. Your aura is strikingly simr to Ruby''s, and there were certain expressions of yours that made me suspect you might be the person I was looking for." His tone softened. I swallowed hard. "Well, now you have the truth. So, what''s your real reason foring here, Leonidas?" He sighed, running a hand over the back of his neck. "Don''t get me wrong, Lady Torrance. I just wanted to see you for myself to see if you were happy." I studied him, skeptical. "And?" "What I see is what I hoped for. That''s a relief." I wasn''t sure how to respond. I had expected judgment, disappointment, maybe even anger for keeping the truth from him. Instead, Leonidas looked genuinely happy for me. "You''re not going to drag me back into the past?" I asked tly. He scoffed, crossing his arms over his chest. "What kind of monster do you take me for? I may be a lot of things, but I''m not cruel enough to rip a woman away from the life she fought for His smirk widened, making me shift slightly into Sessfully unlocked! Eghter rumbled through the living room. "Although, I have to say, your married life is quite amusing. I don''t think I''ve ever seen a Beta as furious as Mikael." Iughed internally. "He''s not being whipped, okay? Don''t get the wrong idea. He''s actually very caring." Leonidas raised an eyebrow. "Sure, keep telling yourself that." Chapter 121:1 Know You Part II His teasing, his mockery, it was just like before, except without the political burdens of the court or the hidden threats. It felt strange, talking to him like this. Comfortable and nostalgic. Our conversation drifted, shifting toward the differences between the world we once knew and the one I now lived in. I listened as he spoke about the pressures of modernizing a kingdom once steeped in ancient traditions how ruling now required diplomacy, finesse, and an understanding of the human world. It was nothing like before, and he admitted that even Killian struggled with it. At the mention of Killian''s name, I tensed. Leonidas noticed. His eyes narrowed slightly. "Why are you asking about him?" "I just wanted to know how he''s doing." Leonidas frowned, as if confused by my logic. "Strange, considering he''s the one who had you executed." I let out a weary smile. "Well, that was a long time ago, wasn''t it? I''m not exactly skilled at holding grudges." Leonidas looked surprised by my admission. If he knew me as well as I remembered, he wouldn''t have needed to be. But perhaps execution wasn''t such a simple matter, especially since I had been framed. Hate and anger were natural. But with the life I had now, I chose to let go of a useless grudge. "But I have to ask have you forgiven him?" I met his gaze directly. "Yes." "Yeah, just as I expected. You have a heart of gold." Leonidas''s dark eyes softened as he tapped his fingers idly under his arm. ¡°He''s not the same anymore, Rosalyn. You should know that." I frowned. "What do you mean?" "He''s broken. And has been for a long time." Leonidas''s voice lost its usual teasing edge. ¡°Depression and a number of other mental illnesses. He never recovered from what happened. After you were gone, he lost himself. Believe it or not, Killian was manipted, Rosalyn." "He was yed into doing the unthinkable. And he''s been paying for it every single day since then," he added grimly. My stomach twisted at his words. I had suspected that Killian would suffer once the truth came to light, but hearing it out loud and knowing it was worse than I had imagined-made it harder to bear. "The only reason he''s still alive is duty. But he''s barely holding on." Before I could respond, the door swung open, and Mikael stepped inside. My expression immediatelyposed itself, masking the sadness beneath. Mikael''s sharp gaze flicked between us. He seemed to know that we had been talking about my past as Ruby. I braced myself for ament, but instead, he walked over to me, brushing his hand against my lower back before turning to Leonidas. "I assume you''re done here?" Leonidas stood with an amused smirk. The Beta stretched and gave a slight bow in acknowledgment. "Still as territorial as ever, Mikael. Yeah, I''m done." He looked at me onest time before smirking. "Take care, Ruby." "Rosalyn," I corrected. As he left, he tossed one final remark over his shoulder. "Congrattions on the pregnancy. I hope the gift makes your baby happy." I barely had time to react before he was gone. Mikael turned to me, one eyebrow raised. "That looked intense." I sighed, shaking my head. "It was." He studied me for a moment before gently cupping my face, his warmth grounding me. ¡°Are you okay? If not, I''ll call our healer." I patted his chest lightly. "You worry too much, old man." "Ouch, I''ve only been a father to three kids, and now I get such an ugly title, wife?" "Just ept it, Mikael." I yfully pushed him away, walking backward while sticking my tongue out. That, of course, was a challenge Mikael couldn''t ignore. I shrieked as he lunged after me, hisughter echoing through the house. Happiness filled the Torrance household. I didn''t realize that someone was watching us, capturing a moment of our little family. Chapter 122 Chapter 122: Beta-Carried Bait Chapter 122: Beta-Carried Bait Killian''s POV Work had always been my greatest distraction. My desk was cluttered with security reports, diplomatic letters, and financial records. The scent of parchment and ink surrounded me, and the rhythmic scratching of my pen was the only sound apanying me. The medication prescribed by the doctor was effective enough. Perhaps it was the dosage. Even so, my bad habits remained unchanged. Drowning myself in work was the only way to keep my thoughts from wandering into memories I had no desire to relive. The door creaked open without much of a knock. Only one person dared to do that. "Oi, Your Majesty, you look like someone who just crawled out of the grave." Leonidas'' usual smug tone filled the air as he strolled in,pletely unfazed by the clear disapproval in my eyes. "You know, I always thought a king was supposed to look regal. Not like some workaholic drowning in paperwork." I sighed, rubbing my temple. "If you''re here to annoy me, Leon, get in line." "Now, now. Is that any way to greet the Beta you trust?" He dropped into the chair across from me, making himselffortable. "I bring you an update." "Then get to the point," I signed the next document with unnecessary force. ¡°I just got back from the Bloodmoon Pack. Delivered the gift you requested.¡± My hand froze for a moment before I resumed writing. "And?" "And nothing. It''s been delivered. You''re wee." He shrugged. "Aren''t you even curious about his reaction?" I refused to let the conversation drift toward him. "If you''re done, get out of here, Beta." "You''re just as cruel to me as ever. What did I ever do to deserve this?!" "Are you trying to start drama here? No one''s buying it." "So heartless. I''m seriously frustrated, okay? My own cousin and king is treating me like a stepchild!" he whined. I felt a migraine creeping in. In the end, I snapped at that foolish Beta, and, as a result, he plunged straight into his usual cheerful mood. I couldn''t understand how he could shift between emotions so easily, ignoring my irritation as if it didn''t exist. And then I had no idea why I still tolerated him as a work partner. Sometimes, he made things entertaining. But most of the time, he didn''t. The office always felt more alive when this one-eyed Beta was around. Right in the middle of his chatter, the door swung open again. Sean entered, carrying a tray with tea, biscuits, and an apaniment that didn''t quite belong: my medicine. He bowed respectfully. "Your Majesty, it''s time." "Thank you, Sean." I ate two biscuits before finally deciding to take the medicine. My nose scrunched at the bitter taste and the strange mix of herbal ingredients. As I lifted my gaze, I was met with an unusual sight. Leaning back, I observed as Sean carefully ced a napkin on the side table. He avoided looking at Leonidas, his movements stiff, something I did not fail to notice. Leonidas, on the other hand, had gone eerily quiet. When I nced at him, he was watching Sean with an intense stare. Sean poured the tea and ced another biscuit beside it, still pretending Leonidas wasn''t in the room. I picked up the cup and took a sip of my tea. "What did you do to my butler?" Leonidas feigned innocence. "Me? Nothing." "Liar." I narrowed my eyes. "Sean, has my Beta been harassing you?" Sean cleared his throat, still refusing to meet Leonidas''s gaze. "No, Your Majesty. I would never consider Master Leonidas a nuisance." I was far from convinced. "That''s the most diplomatic answer I''ve ever heard." "Because it''s the truth, Your Majesty. Don''t use me without evidence!" Leonidasined. "It''s your behavior that always makes me suspicious," I said, motioning with my thumb toward Sean, who stood beside me." Look at his expression and his response the moment you walked in. As far as I recall, this has never happened before." The younger man took the first step to exin, while Leonidas kept his mouth shut so tightly that I almost wanted to strangle him. "Your Majesty, I appreciat your concern. But truly, everything is fine," he exined. Chapter 122: Beta-Carried Bait I studied him skeptically for a moment. "I appreciate your answer. But please, if anything happens, let me know." "Of course. I''ll take my leave now, Your Majesty." Sean turned to leave, offering a slight bow. I nodded, but my attention remained fixed on Leonidas. The moment the door closed behind Sean, I crossed my arms and narrowed my eyes. "One word, Leonidas?" Leonidas blinked. "What?" "You know exactly what. And I''m not blind, no matter how much you try to deny it. You were looking at him like a wolf stalking its prey." Leonidas scoffed, though the suspicious red tint creeping up his cheeks betrayed him. "Killian. I think you''re the one imagining things." "Oh, really? Because from where I''m sitting, you look like a guilty little puppy." I smirked. "I don''t know what you''re talking about." He turned his head slightly, his blush deepening. "Get back to work." I leaned forward. "Beta, we''ve lived together as cousins andrades for a long time. Do you really think you can get away with your little lies?" "Your Majesty, I am me! Nothing happened," he said a little too quickly, shifting in his seat. "I think you need a mirror, Beta. Look at yourself, you''re blushing." "I am not!" "You are." Leonidas ''suddenly stood up, visibly flustered. "Well, would you look at the time? I have Beta duties. Important things." I chuckled. "You''re running away." "I have far more important matters to attend to than entertaining your ridiculous fantasies. Besides, I have some interesting news something you might like, but also hate." 1 tilted my head. "Oh?" Leonidas lifted his chin smugly. It failed to have its usual irritating effect, mostly because the man was still blushing over a certain butler. "Let''s just say... things are about to get veryplicated for you." "You''re not nning to tell me yet, are you, you damn Beta?" I gritted my teeth. He shed a triumphant thumbs-up. "Exactly." And with that, he slipped out, leaving me with an annoying sense of curiosity that I knew woulde back to haunt meter. "Bastard." Chapter 123 Chapter 123: Encounte. Killian''s POV Ready for your dail... Check in now to unlock your reward! It had never crossed my mind that one day I would see my Beta with a man. And what was even more shocking was that the man happened to be the head butler of the pce. First of all, I''m not some close-minded king. A person''s form shouldn''t matter when you truly want them. But this was Leonidas. The infamous yboy of the pce and an outright worshiper of women. "Are you spying on me right now?" Leonidas grumbled. I walked past without even ncing at him. "This is my kingdom. I can go wherever I please. Still, I have enough brains to respect someone''s privacy. You''re the one doing things out in the open like this." "I still think it''s rude!" he whined. "Speaking of manners... shouldn''t you take a good look in the mirror, Beta Leonidas?" "Don''t twist my words!" I resisted the urge to kick this man out of the pce. Unfortunately, he was still too useful, and it would be near impossible to find another Beta aspetent as he was if you ignored his annoying traits. "You''d better go check on my butler. I''m sure he needs a lot offort right now," I said through clenched teeth. Without a second thought, Leonidas turned and left, waving two fingers at me. The corner of my eye twitched in irritation. I rubbed my face and shook my head, watching his back disappear down the hallway. I didn''t even want to imagine what would happen next behind the head butler''s bedroom walls. "Can you really me him? That new head butler is quite beautiful for a man." I groaned at the sound of Elysian''s voice. This was not a conversation I needed right now. "Please, Killian. You''ve lived far beyond any reasonable number of years," he said in a mocking tone. "You can''t still be this prude, right?" "Elysian, I would truly appreciate it if you stopped talking about this," I replied tly. "Ugh! You''re no fun!" And just like that, our connection vanished. I might have died from stress if I weren''t immortal. And the prime suspect would be none other than my own wolf. So I decided. It was time for a king to get some fresh air. It was supposed to be an ordinary outing. I had grown tired of the pce. Its endless corridors, the lingering scent of incense, and the bitter stench of potions that clung to every surface. All of it reminded me of therapy, of headaches, and of trying too hard to forget. So, for the first time in months, I chose to leave. A day off, as humans would call it. I didn''t know how my feet ended up taking me to Aberdeen. Of all cities, why that one? Perhaps it was fate. Or maybe just instinct. I ignored the curious nces, the way people instinctively made space around me. I was used to it by now. I sipped bitter coffee at a small street-side caf¨¦, which was strangelyforting, and wandered along the pavement, watching the human world go by. They lived with such certainty. As if everything had already been mapped out from the beginning. Born into innocence, learning to walk, going to school, working while dating, then marrying. That''s all they ever seemed to do over and over again. Look around. Humans rushing off to work, eyes glued to their glowing little screens,ughing in caf¨¦s, chasing buses, carrying far too many shopping bags. No packs. No Alphamands. Only rules andws they''ve all agreed to follow. And then no blood oaths. No hunting under the moonlight. It all feels strange, yet to me, strangely peaceful. I savored the coffee I bought earlier at the caf¨¦, ordering it exactly the way Leonidas had taught me. But the calm of that stroll shattered the moment a strange scent hit my nose. Sessfully unlocked!. Fresh meat and blood. A putrid stench, thick enough to make my stomach turn. Too familiar. I followed the trail, no longer caring where my steps had nned to take me. Down a narrow alley, there it was: an abandoned corner store. I stared coldly at the damn scene before me. A vampire. Chapter 123: Encounter Kneeling beside a human, blood dripping from his mouth, his fingers tangled in the dying man''s shirt. Disgust hit me like a crashing wave. I hadn''t seen anything this grotesque in years, not even during the war. Not even during the purges. "Fucking parasite." The vampire looked up, a crimson grin spreading across his face at the sound of my controlled voice. "You''re not human," he muttered." I didn''t give him the answer he was fishing for. He tilted his head, licking his lips with a twisted amusement. "A wolf, huh? Leave. This isn''t your business." He had absolutely no idea who I was. Good. That made things easier. Maybe a bit of exercise would help relieve some stress. I took a step forward. Aberdeen had been my territory for a long time, and I wouldn''t allow anyone to taint it. "You dare hunt in my territory, you filthy creature." ¡°What? Hahaha, don''t joke, kid! This is a free zone. Go back to your mommy before I make you my second meal." Hisughter echoed through the empty space. So loud and self-satisfied that he didn''t notice the shift in my stance. The killer glint in my eyes. Before he could open that ugly mouth of his again, I lunged... It was quick and brutal. I couldn''t hold back once the thrill took over me. My ws tore through him, their silver tips ripping into his flesh. He screamed, but no one came. I pinned him against the wall, crushed his ribs, and scorched his insides with a single bite. The corridor trembled with the short-lived battle. In the end, all that remained of the vampire was a pile of ash. I wrinkled my nose as I realized something. "An artificial vampire. Tch, I thought you were pureblood. No wonder you were so weak." Suddenly, the soft tinkling of a bell echoed in the air. I turned around to see a little girl standing there. She was holding a doll with a missing eye. Her tiny fingers clutched its worn fabric arm, herrge emerald eyes staring at me. She didn''t cry. She just stared. What a strange child. Shouldn''t she be terrified by now? At the very least, the child should''ve fainted. I stepped closer to get a better look at her. She looked like someone I knew. The keyword was Bloodmoon Pack. She had Mikael''s nose. Rosalyn''s eyes. I exhaled sharply. This was going to be a long,plicated problem. I lowered my head. "I''m sorry you had to see that, little girl" She blinked innocently. "You killed the scary man." "He was dangerous. Where''s your mother?" She pointed to the left, calm as can be. "That way. Mommy''s looking for Anna. I''m Alice Torrance. Who are you? You kinda smell like us." I felt a strange thrum in my chest. I had no idea how to talk to children. At least this wasn''t as awkward as I expected, considering it was right after a killing. Then I heard a voice calling Alice''s name. "Alice!" It was Rosalyn. The little girl turned toward the voice and waved her over. That''s when I saw Leonidas''s newpanion for the second time. The woman froze in shock, her face going pale. Her hands instinctively cradled her swollen belly. "Y-Your Majesty?" Chapter 124 Chapter 124: Deja Vu Chapter 124: Deja Vu Killian''s POV I stood frozen in my ce the moment I heard the woman speak that honorific title to me. Two simple words that shouldn''t have affected me in any way. And yet, they struck like a memory wrapped in steel, piercing right through my chest. No one had called me by that title in centuries. Not formally. Not yfully. Not even with the slightest hint of affection. And yet, the woman standing in front of me had nearly said it perfectly. "Killian. Do you feel it?" Theard Elysian''s soft, longing voice. It hurt just as much as my own emotions. "I''m afraid what I''m thinking right now is bing real," said the wolf. I replied through the link, "Me too." I brushed the disgusting ashes of that vampire from my hand, my gaze fixed on the woman holding her daughter close as if she were protecting her from a monster. Her lips trembled. Her eyes widened, filled with recognition. Or maybe.... it was fear. Whatever it was, it stung more than I wanted to admit. Well, I couldn''t me her. My reputation had always been the same. Cruelty was my middle name. Rosalyn Torrance. A name unfamiliar to me. I walked forward with good intentions only to suddenly lose my breath, my vision flickering with floating lights that made my head spin. Not Rosalyn. I saw Ruby. The memory of the way she stood half stubborn, half amused. The way she threw around Your Majesty like a joke shared between lovers. She only ever used that title when she wanted to challenge me or remind me that I wore a crown burdened with too many sins. My pulse thundered in my ears, and the streets around me twisted into a mirage of hell. My stomach turned. I struggled to keep myself from copsing in shame. "I''m sorry, Your Majesty. Are you alright?" Rosalyn asked with worry in her voice. "Just a regr migraine." "W-what? Why didn''t you say anything?! Come on, we have a healer in the pack. You could-" "Thank you, Lady Torrance. But a migraine won''t kill me," I replied. I pressed my fingers to the right side of my temple, blinking repeatedly. Slowly, the pain began to fade. I looked around and saw that ash was still drifting from the alley like ck snow. The metallic scent of blood clung to the air. Remnants of the vampire were still there burnt fragments on the concrete, and the death it left behind in its scream. I had killed it without mercy. And yet, what shook me the most was that I couldn''t save a single human. I didn''t particrly care, really. It was simply because, once they were fed on by a vampire, their body would be poisoned, and there was a chance they might turn into a new vampire. That''s why it had to be destroyed too. Rosalyn looked around, horror surfacing on her face as she took in the massacre. She knew very well that I was the one who had carried out the final cleanup. "Your Majesty, may I ask-what happened here?" she asked, holding her daughter even tighter. Her voice jolted me out of my thoughts. I cleared my throat, locking the memory back into its proper ce. "Vampire," I said tly. "Feeding on a human out in the open. I saw it while walking through this area, and that''s why everything you now see happened." Her face lost all color. "In broad daylight?" I gave a stiff nod. "Brazen. Or stupid. Maybe both." The little girl beside her, still hugging her doll, tilted her head toward me. Her gaze once again showed no fear. Only curiosity. And I could see Anna nudging her mother to exin what the adults were talking about. "I''m sorry she had to see that," I added, nodding softly toward the child. Rosalyn shifted her weight. "It''s not your fault. You saved someone." "I''ve done worse," I muttered, mostly to myself. "And I didn''t save anyone. That human was already dead." "I still believe it was a noble act. Just imagine what would''ve happened if that vampire hadn''t been taken down right away." A smile perched on the woman''s lips. For a moment, I was captivated by that simplicity. Quite beautiful. Until I realized I Chapter 124: Deja Vu hadn''t responded at all to that littlepliment. That was when the girl spoke, her voice full of defiance. "I''m not afraid of vampires." I blinked in her direction. Meanwhile, her mother looked horrified. She then scolded her little daughter firmly. "Anna. Remember what I taught you." "Yes, Mom. But I don''t think they''re scary," Anna said, hugging her doll. "That one looked like a melted raisin.¡± Despite all the past and the tightness in my chest, this child amused me a little. A smallugh escaped my lips. "A melted raisin?" Anna nodded proudly. "Uh-huh.¡± "I have to agree," I said, crouching slightly to meet her eye level. "He was very ugly." Rosalyn sighed, rubbing her temples as if silently apologizing again. "I swear, this child is terrifying sometimes." "She''s brave, Lady Torrance," I said, standing back up. "But bravery isn''t the same as recklessness. You both need to get out of here before the authorities show up with too many questions." Rosalyn immediately agreed. We walked toward the car parked near the edge of the road. I could feel her ncing at me from the corner of her eye, as if she wanted to ask a hundred things but didn''t know where to start. This wasn''t the right time. Not with her daughter watching, and not with police sirens about to echo through the air. At the car, I stepped back. "You''ll be safe now. I''ll keep patrolling the area before heading back to my estate." "Thank you," Rosalyn said softly. Then, just as I turned to leave, a small hand tugged at the edge of my coat. "Why don''t youe with us?" Anna asked, her eyelids drooping with concern. "Where did your uncle go? Are you going to be alone now?" Rosalyn flushed. "Anna, sweetheart. Don''t say things like that." "It''s all right," I said, crouching down again to meet her eyes. "I''m used to being alone." at''s sa She frowned. "That''s sad." I smiled gently. "Not as sad as it sounds. There''s work I need to do." "Boring grown-up work?" "The worst kind." The little girl made an adorable face. "Yuck." I ruffled her hair softly. "You''ll understand someday." Rosalyn apologized again. I just shook my head. It was fine. I stepped away and watched them get into the car before pulling my phone from the coat pocket. A few months ago, I would have scoffed at the idea of carrying a phone. Now, I was grateful for the convenience. I tapped on Leonidas''s name and brought it to my ear. He picked up on the second ring. "Well, well. Is that you, King Killian, the Technophobe Challenger?" "Don''t start." Beta''s familiar, boomingugh echoed through the call. "I''m honored you finally figured out what a phone is." "I''ve used it before." "Yeah, once. And then you hung up because you thought the ''end call'' button was a self-destruct feature," he scoffed. "I didn''t call for your stand-up routine." "Then what''s up?" I exhaled, my tone shifting. "There''s a vampire. In the city." The sarcasm dropped from his voice. "You''re serious?" "Unfortunately, yes." "Bold. Even for their kind. I assume you know what needs to be done," he said. "I do. I want the Council briefed. We need to revisit the boundaries." "You going in yourself?" Chapter 124: Deja Vu "Tomorrow." There was a long pause as I walked along the sidewalk of the modern city. "I get the feeling there''s something else you''re not saying." I sighed. "I saw her." "Who?" "No. I mean, yes. Call it d¨¦j¨¤ vu,¡± I said, swallowing the lump in my throat. "This woman called me ''Your Majesty'' And for a second..." "I get it. D¨¦j¨¤ vu can hit hard. Did she look like her?" "Yeah." "You holding up okay?" I looked out at the fading sun over Aberdeen, the wind carrying the scent of ash and coffee. "Not right now. Anyway, I''ll be hometer than expected," I said. He grunted, followed by the rustle of parchment. "Alright. Let me know if you need anything. Also, proud of you for finally using a phone." "I''m going to throw it off a bridge." "Fair. Just wait until after the Council meeting, Your Majesty." I rolled my eyes. "Leonidas." "Yeah?" "Thanks." "Don''t thank me yet, Your Highness," he said, clearly trying to lighten the mood. "You still owe me a drink. And a woman." I hung up immediately. I wasn''t about to entertain that. It would only give me a headache. The screen went dark, and I saw my reflection in the ck ss. Maybe the psychiatrist had been right. Maybe I''d thought about her for so long that every woman with even a faint resemnce triggered the same d¨¦j¨¤ vu. Strangely, among all those who looked like her, Rosalyn wasn''t one of them. And yet, why did I react so strongly to her presence? Subscribed Chapter 125 Chapter 125: Before I Fall Ruby''s POV The house was warm, as always. Luxurious enough by Beta standards, yet cozy enough for a small family to build a life in. Beta Mikael''s home had always been a ce filled withughter and grounded simplicity. And now, as I watched Anna run from the car to the front door, yelling for her twin sister, I felt a spark of joy at seeing my beloved little girl so excited. "Alice! Hey! You won''t believe what happened!" "It was the coolest thing I''ve ever seen!" The front door opened even before she reached it, and there stood Alice, her ponytail messy, eyes wide with curiosity. "Huh? What do you mean? Did you get ice cream without me?!" "Way better!" Anna beamed, her chest rising and falling as she panted. "There was a real vampire. Can you believe that? And then this super cool hero showed up! He was this really brave man! And he killed the vampire and saved everyone!" Anna shook Alice''s small body. "Mama saw it too!" Alice''s eyes widened like an owl''s. She looked from me to Anna, her tiny mouth hanging open in shock at the story being spilled. "No way!" "Did you just call me a liar?!" Anna pouted. Alice tilted her head. I could see the gears turning in her mind. I smiled in amusement at the sight. I gave her a small nod; letting her know Anna was telling the truth. That alone caused a drastic shift in her expression. Alice immediately grabbed Anna''s hand. "Tell me everything again, quick!" They rushed inside, their footsteps pounding across the floor, voices ovepping as Anna began recounting the story in the living room like it was a scene from a movie. I followed behind with the same eagerness, watching Anna''s little performance unfold. She puffed out her chest and raised her doll in the air like a weapon. "And then he stood there like this, whoosh! His eyes were glowing, and the vampire turned into ashes, Alice. It was so cool!" Alice squealed in delight. "Like the stories Uncle Jay used to tell us?" "Even better! Too bad he didn''te with us. He''s a werewolf too, you know! His name is...¡± She scrunched her nose. ¡°Um, I forgot. But he was really handsome! All the princes I''ve seen in storybooks are nothingpared to this hero!" I couldn''t help but let out a softugh at that. They were so full of life. Completely unaware that the enemy they were talking about was incredibly dangerous. Vampires weren''t bugs you could squash under your heel. Yet to them, my daughters treated them as such. My eyelids lowered, a touch of mncholy behind them. Watching them reminded me of what I was fighting for. I wanted to stay hidden forever and never reopen the wounds of my past. Not just for my own sake. But for this family. I didn''t know if the Killian of now was truly different from the version he used to be. I remained cautious, unwilling to let history repeat itself. "Hello!" Mikael''s voice came from the front door. He stepped in from outside, shrugging off his jacket and brushing the dirt from his boots. His eyesnded on the girls first, still animated and buzzing with the retelling of the vampire ying. "What''s all themotion about?" I gave him a small, weary smile. "Anna met a vampire today. And someone saved her." Mikael''s expression shifted sharply in an instant. He crossed the room and stood beside me. "Wait, what did you just say?" "It''s alright, I reassured him, patting the man''s chest. "It was handled. He saved us before anything worse could happen." His brows furrowed in confusion. "Who?" I cleared my throat quietly. "Killian." Sessfully unlocked!. Mikael froze. His jaw tightened, his eyes drifting back to the girls. Twinced at the look of displeasure on his face the moment I said that name. He wasn''t angry at me, but he always carried a quiet grudge against that immortal king. "I suppose there''s no other Killian but that bastard, huh?" I nodded, shifting ufortably. "Yeah. That one." Chapter 125: Before I Fall His hand moved to gently rub my arm, a silent reminder that this was where I belonged. And still, even with the distance between past and present, that name left a sting in my chest. Mikael pressed a kiss to my temple, whispering soft reassurances even as a low grumble escaped him at the thought of facing the man he despised. I turned away from the girls, my voice quiet. "He still didn''t know it was me." "Are you sure?" "I think so. He looked at me like I was just some ordinary woman." "Leonidas didn''t tell him?" Mikael asked. "No." I shook my head. "He wants Killian to heal first. That''s what he said." A bitter taste crept into my mouth, the pain stabbing my chest with a thousand poisoned daggers. The panic I''d buried for weeks; lulled into dormancy by the rhythm of normal life had been stirred back awake today. It''s not easy to look at someone you once loved, your mate... and your killer. It was like dying all over again in slow motion. My throat burned. "I still dream about it. Sometimes, I just can''t take it anymore, Mikael. The execution. The scent of the prison. The crowds," I choked out a sob. Mikael moved without a word, cing both hands on my shoulders. He gently wiped the wetness from the corners of my ¿û eyes. "I thought I could handle it. The truth?" "Ros, my love. You got this far because you can handle it," he said softly. "You''re just hurt. That''s all. And I understand that, in my own way." But Mikael''s words did nothing to ease the crushing pressure in my chest. The walls felt closer, the air thinner. And then, my knees gave out. "Mom?" Anna''s voice snapped me back for a moment. I blinked hard, but my vision was blurred. The room tilted. Mikael''s voice faded beneath the ringing in my ears. The girls rushed over, theirughter gone reced with wide, worried eyes. "Dad! Mom, are you sick?! Answer me, Dad!" Alice and Anna took turns bombarding their father with questions. Mikael did his best to answer while supporting me. His strong arms caught me just before I hit the floor. I heard his voice shouting something to the girls. "Girls," he said, breathless as he lifted me onto the couch, "get some water. A towel. Anything." "You''re not answering us, Dad! We''re worried!" Anna cried. Alice nodded in agreement with her twin. "Anna''s right, Dad. I''m scared Mom''s going to leave us!" "She just needs to rest," Mikael said, forcing calm into his voice. "Go. Help me." I wanted to tell them I was okay. That it was nothing. But I felt trapped between two timelines. This one, and another, where I was bound in chains and dragged to my execution. Metal. Cold. Killian''s eyes as the de came down. "Mama, wake up!" Tiny hands gripped mine. Little faces hovered above me. They look desperate, afraid. "I''m calling the healer," Mikael said, already reaching for the phone. "Stay with your mother. Let her talk." Anna climbed up beside me, wrapping her arms around mine. "You''re going to be okay, right, Mom? You''re just sleepy, right?" Alice leaned close to my ear. "We''ll protect you from the vampires!" I smiled weakly, blinking through the fog in my mind. My daughters were so brave. Braver than I felt. I loved them and I hoped I would always be able to keep doing so, all the way until the end of my days. Subscribed Chapter 126 Chapter 126: Nostalgic Chapter 126: Nostalgic Killian''s POV The room reeked of politics, ego, and self-interest. A semicircle of council members sat on their high-backed chairs, their robes far too pristine for people who hardly lifted a finger. I stood before them, hands clenched behind my back, jaw tight, holding back a string of very colorful curses. I had seen empires rise and fall, I had ruled through fire and shadow. Patience was never my natural trait. I had to learn and force it into my bones over centuries. And still, even that had its limits.. Frankly, they were lucky they weren''t dealing with the tyrant version of Killian. Otherwise, the floor would already be painted red. "Three confirmed sightings," I said, voice low and coarse like gravel. "One human dead, two missing. All near the eastern sector. The bite marks are undeniable. They were vampires." Some council members exchanged unimpressed looks. "Are you sure it''s not rogue witches again?" chimed in Councilman Veris, a shapeshifter better known for his tail than his brains. My lip twitched. "Witches don''t drain their victims dry and leave them strung up like ughtered livestock." "Maybe it was isted. A wandering nest, perhaps. Not worth inciting panic." rung up on a "Tell that to the mother of the girl they strung up on amp post!" I snapped. The air thickened with tension. My killing intent red, rising like a storm cloud behind my golden eyes. If not for the iron chains of self-control I kept wrapped tightly around my fury, the room would be knee-deep in blood by now. "I faced one myself today. Lucky me, right?" I smiled coldly, the kind that made more than one councilman shift in difort. "Imagine that. A king, just trying to enjoy a casual ride, and he stumbles across a sewer rat on the road?" I leaned back against the chair, resting my chin on one hand. If anyone had the right to be arrogant here, it was me. Not them. "I built this ce. Don''t you think it''s a little hical for you to sit here lounging while I clean up your mess?" I hissed. Councilman Veris flinched, enraged at the usation. "Your Majesty! You have no right to speak to us like that!" he barked. "Oh, I have every right. Shall I show you what power really looks like, Veris?" I challenged. "Enough." The word sliced through the noise like a de. Advisor Arwen rose to her feet. She was small in stature, with eyes far too sharp and fierce for someone so quiet. A witch of ancient lineage, and the only one in the room who didn''t flinch under my gaze. "The threat is real," she said. "And if King Killian ims this is a coordinated attack, we''d be fools not to act." Her words, though pointed, carried a calm and steady tone. I felt the tightness in my chest loosen just slightly. Slowly, the rage began to ebb with Arwen''s partial understanding of my concern. The truth was, I had worked too damn hard for too many centuries to let everything fall apart now, certainly not because of a handful of godforsaken vampires. Arwen stepped forward, raising her voice just enough tomand attention. "Let me handle the diplomatic approach. If we can reach the vampire envoy before the bloodshed esctes, we might be able to avoid another purge." I didn''t like diplomacy. I preferred clean cuts and scorched earth. But Arwen''s proposal wasn''t a bad one. A ceasefire for now. The meeting ended with reluctant agreement. Most of the council still underestimated the threat, but Arwen''s voice carried an air of undeniable authority. I felt a flicker of relief knowing that at least my choice for advisor wasn''t a mistake. I couldn''t imagine what this council would be like without a few sane minds left. I didn''t waste another second with their empty posturing. I swept out of the chamber, ignoring the hollow bows cast in my direction. I hated this ce. Look at how the council dragged their foot Mavha it had been a mistake to build this hall with t ope of uniting scattered species under one roof. M Sessfully unlocked! ended, the ce would turn into a goumn tea party. I''d need to speak with Arwen about this: Soon "Killian!" The voice stopped me in my tracks. I turned to see Alpha Jayden leaning casually against a marble pir, arms crossed, that all-too-familiar smirk ying on his lips. Chapter 126: Nostalgic "Still scaring the kids, I see." I raised an eyebrow. "Still pretending to be charming, Jayden?" He pushed off the pir with ease. "Come on. You look like you could use some tea and sugar. My treat." "I''ll ept your generous offer," I said coolly, "if you answer why you skipped the meeting" He tilted his head slightly, his mouth tightening. "I''m not the only Alpha in this city, you know. And besides, I''m not on the council. Not interested, either." "I seem to remember nominating your name myself." He hummed indifferently. "So, is that a ''yes'' to the tea?" I let out a long sigh at his attempt to change the subject. But in the end, I gave in partly because I could use the distraction, and partly because Jayden, for all his antics, was one of the few kind-hearted Alphas I trusted. The caf¨¦ was a small spot tucked away at a street corner, run by dryads. Calm, warm, and filled with the scent of herbs and fresh pastries. Jayden ordered a cup of wildberry tea and a te of butter cookies. I sat across from him, arms folded, eyes lost in the distance. "You used to like these," Jayden said, nudging the te toward me. "Well, at least, during the years we were friends, tyrant." Staring at the flour-based treat, I decided to take one. The moment I did, memories surged forward. I recalled softughter pale hands, and a warm voice that once called me back from the darkness in my mind. I also remembered a garden, andzy afternoons filled with the same scent. Sometimes, those peaceful moments would drift into the music room, where we''d take turns showing off our piano skills. "Killian?" I blinked, finding Jayden watching me. I cleared my throat, masking the slip in my "Don''t get sentimental on me, Jayden." He leaned forward, eyes narrowing in curiosity. "Who was she?" My smile was brief and sharp. "You''re assuming it was a woman?" demeanor. Jayden blinked, caught off guard. "Well, who wouldn''t? You spaced out like that over a butter cookie. If that''s not nostalgia, I don''t know what is." "But we''re not here to talk about my life," I said, a bit more curtly than I intended, shifting in my seat. "What do you want, Jayden? You rarely reach out to me since you got married." Jayden grinned. "Fair enough. I think we need to get serious about this vampire issue. Not just politically. Tactically. I want in." "You want in?" I repeated, questioning his sanity. "Fine. Just make sure to draft your will first, for your family''s sake." Heughed heartily, giving me a thumbs up. "There he is. That''s the tyrant I know." I made a face at his antics, reaching for another butter cookie. For a fleeting moment, it felt like something lost had returned. Ruby used to make these for me. Would she do it again if she''s been reincarnated in this life? Subscribed 0 Likes Chapter 127 Chapter 127: Tyran''s Good Side Killian''s POV Jayden surprised me. At first, I thought I would simply return to my disrupted holiday after dealing with the council. But then one person showed up and it seemed he wasn''t nning to leave anytime soon. We were still seated at that same caf¨¦. He had a dry sense of humor but was grounded. I liked it enough. Honestly, I never imagined there woulde a day when I''d call someone a friend if I may use the word, other than Leonidas, that annoying Beta. I used to scoff at the very idea of friendship, and now well, it didn''t seem quite as dreadful as I once thought. "You don''t strike me as someone who enjoys sweet bread, Jayden remarked, raising an eyebrow as I took a bite. "I don''t. But my wolf does," I said, gesturing toward the remaining piece. "And he''s been insufferabletely." Jayden chuckled softly, stirring his tea. "Must be exhausting sharing a mind with a centuries-old predator." "You have no idea." The conversation helped. For a few minutes, I wasn''t consumed by thoughts of Rosalyn. Her eyes. Her voice. Her presence. And then Jayden''s phone buzzed. He picked it up, and his expression darkened instantly. "What? Please, slow down. How bad is it?" he asked anxiously. I sat up straighter, hearing the urgency in the voice on the other end. I sipped my tea while keeping my gaze fixed on him. Jayden ended the call and exhaled, pinching the bridge of his nose. "My sister-inw. She''s fallen ill." "Mikael''s wife, Rosalyn?" He looked up, brow furrowed. "Yeah... how did you know?" "I met her on the day of the council meeting during the closing event. Did you forget?" A flicker of realization crossed his face. "Ah. Right. Sorry." "So, what''s wrong with her?" I asked. He sighed. "Our pack''s healer is away, and Mikael says she''s getting worse by the hour." This was strange. I had just seen the woman and her daughter and now suddenly she was ill? Something wasn''t right. And how could their healer system be this poorly managed? It made my skin itch with the urge to go there myself and bring someonepetent to treat her. That''s when I realized what I was thinking. No. Why do I care? "I need to find another healer, Killian. Looks like we''ll have to continue this conversation another time." "I''ll help you," I said. Jayden turned immediately, stopping just as he was about to rise from his seat. I could see the surprise all over his face. "Are you serious, Your Majesty?" I scoffed at the title. This Alpha had never cared for my rank if anything, he enjoyed mocking it. The fact that he used it now made me want to do more than just toss him out the window. "I''ll call one of my healers,¡± I said firmly. "From the pce. One of the best. And stop using that title. It gives me chills hearing it from you, Jayden." Jayden stared at me for a moment beforeughing and nodding quickly. "Thanks, Killian." I asked for a moment and pulled out my phone to contact Leonidas. A few secondster, the call connected. "Already missing me, Killian? I''m ttered." I rolled my eyes. "Send Nyra to the Bloodmoon Pack. Immediately. Rosalyn Torrance is ill. She needs treatment." "Alright. I''ll have her on a horse in a few minutes." I stared at the phone, frowning slightly at the subtle tone of concern in his voice. But I chose not to overthink it. That boy seemed to genuinely consider Rosalyn a friend. Sessfully unlocked!t. Leonidas never made close friendships with women. If he did, you could count them on one hand and they all came from the pce barracks. By the time we arrived at the Torrance residence, the sky had faded into a soft gray. Snow had begun to fall, dusting the tops of the pine trees as we entered the deer pack''s territory. Mikael greeted us at the door, visibly startled to see me there. "Your Majesty. Alpha." Chapter 127: Tyran''s Good Side I watched his movements carefully and gave him a nod. I couldn''t help but wonder what it was about me that made him dislike me. I wasn''t blind. I saw all the signs. "How is your wife, Beta?" Mikael looked defeated. He rubbed his face. "Still in bed. The fever hasn''t broken. She''s conscious, but barely Before we could say anything more, a sudden shout interrupted us. "UNCLE!" Two small figures came running down the hallway, the twins, identical, with curly ck hair and wild golden eyes. Anna reached me first, wrapping her arms around my legs. "This is the uncle I told you about!" she shouted to Alice. "The one who kicked the scary vampire like a chicken!" Alice gasped. A glimmer of awe lit up her eyes. "Really? You met him?" I blinked, surprised. Anna looked up at me, her face glowing. "You''re so cool. Can I have a sword too?" Augh escaped me before I could stop it. I knelt down to their level. "I don''t carry a sword. But yes, you can have one when you''re at least ten. Kicking vampires takes practice." Alice grabbed my hand, clearly not caring who or what I was. "You smell like snow. Do you live in an ice castle?" "Not quite. More like a cold stone pce," I said. Jayden watched us with amusement. Mikael looked slightly horrified. The twins were so absorbed in circling around me that it took a fair bit of effort on Mikael''s part to pull them away. Still, I told him not to bother. Momentster, the door to the Torrance home opened, and Nyra stepped inside, wrapped in her royal healer''s cloak. "Your Majesty," she greeted with a quick bow. "Where is the patient?" Mikael led her silently down the hallway. I remained where I was, still surrounded by the twins, listening to their chatter about wolves, swords, and ice castles. 1 was supposed to feel awkward or out of ce. I was not the kind of wolf meant to be around soft things like children. And yet, here I didn''t feel that way. In fact, I found myself enjoying it. And I had no idea what to do with that feeling. "You''d make a good father," Jayden remarked. "That title''s too heavy." It wasn''t something I believed would ever happen. I would never have a family like that. Maybe it could have, once if I hadn''t been so foolish with the choices I made. Subscribed Chapter 128 hapter 128: The Connected Soul Chapter 128: The Connected Soul Ruby''s POV I finally awoke from the grip of pain. The first thing to greet me was the stillness of the world around me, thick with the scent of warm tea, clean sheets, a faint trace of Mikael, and the presence of fresh lilies on the nightstand. My body, somehow, didn''t feel heavy. And yet, there was a familiar weight on the bed, followed by the sound of sweet voices at my ear. "Mommy?" It was Alice''s voice. A secondter, I felt tiny fingers wrap around my hand. I turned my head slowly and saw two pairs of eyes, so much like Mikael''s, staring at me: the twins, Alice and Anna. Mikael sat behind them, his expression a perfect mixture of concern and immense relief. He looked exhausted, and yet his smile bloomed the moment our eyes met. "Hey, love," he whispered. My throat felt dry, painfully so. As if a desert had bloomed there, scorched by a relentless sun. Still, I forced myself to offer Mikael the best smile I could manage, just to let him know I was recovering. He neverined when caring for me during times like this. Especially not when I was carrying his child. "Hey." The twins shrieked in unison and threw themselves onto me, their arms wrapping tightly around my waist. "We were so scared, Mama!" "Anna cried twice!" "I''m not!" "Don''t lie, Anna!" "Ugh, you did too, Alice!" Their bickering made meugh, even as my body still protested. Mikael leaned forward and gently peeled them off of me. "Alright, alright. Let your mother breathe, little ones." He reached for my hand and kissed it, then looked into my eyes as if seeing something precious he thought he had lost. "You really scared us." Before I could respond, another voice cut in. "She''s stronger than you think, Beta.¡± My heart stopped. Killian. He stood at the foot of the bed, arms crossed, his expression unreadable. Seeing him here, in my room, brought a rush of strange, tangled feelings. I couldn''t understand how he was here. I hadn''t expected this at all. It was too much-his presence, his voice, the weight of our shared history. I am Rosalyn Torrance. Just a regr wolf. Nothing more. I needed to act like it-and avoid raising suspicion. I slowly sat up, pushing past the dizziness. "Your Majesty. You''re here." He raised an eyebrow. "I brought a healer. Jayden said his sister-inw was sick. So, I''m not leaving until I know you''re safe. He seems to care about you quite a bit." His words were blunt and cold, deadly in their detachment, with just a trace of sharpness at the edges. The same tone he used to speak to Ruby when I still bore that name. "Well, I''m not dead," I muttered, turning my face away. The room fell silent. Mikael moved to sit beside me, brushing hair from my face. His touch calmed me, warm and familiar. "I''ll get you some water," he said, rising and heading to the small table by the wall. Killian''s gaze never left me. When I looked back at him, I caught something in his eyes I hadn''t expected confusion. "Have we met before?" he asked softly. The words caught in my throat. I shook my head slowly. Sessfully unlocked! "If you''re referring to the woman who interrupted the council meeting that buy, then yes," I replied. "That''s not what I meant," he said, slipping his hands into his pockets. "But alright. Maybe it''s just a typical d¨¦j¨¤ vu." Jayden chose that moment to enter the room, followed by Leonidas now holding a tray of soup and fresh biscuits like some well-trained butler. Jayden looked a little impressed at my recovery, at least until the twins came barreling toward him. Chapter 128: The Connected Soul "Uncle Jayden! Mama''s awake!" Heughed, scooping Alice up with one arm. "I can see that. Wee back, Rosalyn." "Thank you," I said softly, still very aware of the man standing at the foot of my bed. Leonidas set the tray down. "You scared everyone, little wolf." "I didn''t mean to," I replied curtly. He winked. "Next time, try doing it with a little less drama." As the others began moving around the room; Jayden checking his phone, Leonidas teasing the girls. I felt Mikael return to my side with a ss of water, I sipped it slowly, the painful dryness in my throat finally easing. Then Mikael leaned in and kissed me. His kiss was gentle, slow, and familiar. It didn''t surprise me. It warmed me. We had kissed a thousand times. And yet, this one felt more like a promise. A sigh of relief. "You''re okay," he whispered against my lips. I gave him a faint smile, my fingers brushing the side of his face. "You can''t get rid of me that easily." Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Jayden panic. "Ladies! Look away!" he shouted, shielding Alice''s eyes with his hand. "Innocence! Think of her purity!" Anna giggled and ducked away from him, clinging to Leonidas''s leg. But it was Killian who held my attention. He turned away, jaw clenched. The polite mask he''d worn earlier had slipped. There was something else now tension, difort. Jealousy. Wait, what? I tried to study him again. But it was still the same expression. I knew that look. And my heart ached from knowing it. He didn''t know who I was. And yet something inside him did. Mikael must''ve sensed the shift in the air. He brushed his thumb gently across my cheek and stood, turning to address Killian directly. "Thank you for sending the healer." Killian''s eyes flicked toward me before he gave a small nod. "She''s the one who did the work. I just sent her." "Still," Mikael said with forced politeness. "We owe you." Killian gave him a short nod and turned to leave, murmuring something to Leonidas, who nced at me before offering a thin smile. The room slowly emptied, and Mikael lifted the twins onto the bed because they insisted on being close to me. But even as they curled into my arms, I could feel the weight of Killian''s absence settle over the room. It wasn''t supposed to be like this. I had Mikael. And yet, why did my soul still cry out aching, longing, every time I saw him? Subscribed Chapter 129 Chapter 129: That Should Be Me Chapter 129: That Should Be Me Killian''s POV: "I shouldn''t have stayed there." I told myself that as I stood near the arched doorway of the Torrance residence, lingering in the shadows like a cursed remnant. Rosalyn had just woken up, the color returning to her face,ughter trailing behind the twins like sunlight chasing them into the room. Mikael had been by her side the entire time, her mate. As it should be. Yet I couldn''t help but wonder what was wrong with me. My heart and mind screamed that I didn''t like the way Rosalyn responded to every touch of affection from her husband. It was far too familiar and made me sick. They kissed, and something inside me recoiled. I couldn''t name the feeling. It wasn''t anger. Or maybe it was. But it settled too deeply into my bones, spreading into ces even centuries of war had never touched. Jayden, that foolish, ridiculous Alpha, tried to cover the twins'' eyes with his hands even though they kept peeking through his fingers and giggling. And me? I stood still like a rock on the edge of the shore, waiting to be split open by the approaching waves. Suddenly, a mental link red to life with Elysian. "Hey, king. Any second now, you''re going to shootsers from your eyes," she said. I replied through the link, "Don''t just pop in like that. I''m outside right now." "You''re like this all the time. What''s the difference? Besides, I live in your inner world, Killian." Then she added, "Are you jealous?" "No." Rosalyn didn''t look at me after that. I didn''t even know if she realized I was still there. The moment that thought crossed my mind, I cursed myself. Rosalyn was nothing to me-and more importantly, she was someone else''s wife. "You alright, King Brood?" Leonidas whispered beside me, his tone deliberately too casual. He never missed a thing. "You''re staring like someone just stabbed your soul with a soup spoon." I didn''t answer. I just turned toward the door and gripped the cor of my coat. "We''d better head back. My leave is over." "Yeah, I figured as much." He followed me as I stepped outside into the fresh night air, the sky just beginning to bruise with the colors of twilight. As I inhaled, I caught the scent of wildflowers, firece smoke and her. Rosalyn. She smelled like dew drops on flower petals and something deeply nostalgic, something I couldn''t quite ce. My fingers curled tighter. I felt like I was losing my mind. Maybe I really needed to get checked out again after this. "Leonidas, we''re heading back to the castle. Now," I said without turning around. "Understood." His voice had lost its usual teasing edge. "You sure you don''t want to say goodbye first?" I was about to answer when the patter of little footsteps interrupted me before my voice could reach him. "Uncle Killian!" One of the twins shouted from afar. Anna, I think. I was still learning to tell them apart by voice. She ran toward me like a missile, and I had just enough time to turn and catch her. Then, in the other one, Alice rushed me like a second wave. "Are you already leaving?" Their big, pleading eyes looked up at me like two sweet bunnies begging for carrots. I''ve stared down warlords, monsters, and ancient gods. But these tiny bundles of sweetness? They had utterly defeated me. I crouched down, easily adjusting to their height. ¡°That won''t work on me, you sneaky bunnies." "We are not!" Anna pouted. "Look at you right now. You''re trying to leave without saying goodbye!" "Anna''s right! You''re mean!" Alice nodded earnestly. "And that''s super rude for a grown-up." Leonidas snorted behind me, barely holding back hisughter "They got you good." Sessfully unlocked! "I wasn''t trying to be rude," I said, with exaggera Anna crossed her arms in protest. "Well then, you''re not allowed to leave yet." to be efficient." "Yeah!" Alice clung to my arm like a tiny leech. "We haven''t even shown you our new riddle yet! There''s a dragon in it!" "I can''t stay tonight, kids," I said softly. "But I have something for both of you." Chapter 129: That Should Be Me I pulled a small envelope from the pocket of my coat, something I''d prepared without knowing why. Royal parchment, written in golden ink. Sealed with the personal crest of the crown. "What''s this?" they asked in unison. "An official invitation," I said, the corner of my mouth lifting slightly. "If either or both of you miss me terribly, you''re wee to visit the castle. I''ll make sure you have dragons, riddles, and all the food the kitchen staff can give you." The twins gasped as if I''d offered them the moon. Alice epted the envelope like it was a sacred artifact. "You promise?" "Yeah." Anna stared at me, her eyes far too wise for a child her age.. "Will you be sad without us?" I was struck silent. Not once in my life had a child ever asked me that. Sometimes I wondered if the dark aura around me had faded just enough to let them get this bold. They were so much like their mother. "I''ll miss you," I admitted. They both hugged me again, and for a moment, I froze. Then Rosalyn''sughter echoed from a nearby window. It stirred something ufortable in my chest. I stood, gently cing the twins back on the ground. "Go on now. Your mother needs you." They each nted a kiss on my cheek and waved their little hands at me. Now and then, Anna and Alice would nce back. I watched until they were gone. Leonidas appeared beside me, arms crossed, a grin tugging at his lips. "You''re getting all soft these days," he remarked. "I am not." He leaned in a little closer. "Oh,e on. I may have lost one eye, but I''m not blind. I''m surprised you haven''t melted from the warmth." "Sometimes you forget my status, Leonidas." "Of course not. You''re a big ol'' teddy bear under all that brooding," he shot back mockingly. I sighed, offering no response. I didn''t have the energy for it. And the longer I stayed here, the closer I drifted toward memories I had spent millennia trying to bury. "Come on, Leonidas. The kingdom awaits its king." Chapter 130 Chapter 130: Orc and Vampire Killian''s POV "Damn it." The peaceful night shatteredpletely. The desire to retreat to my chambers, lulled by myte lover''s mncholy piano tunes, was now nothing more than a distant wish I had known this would happen. Even before the first scream before the sh of steel against bone, the shattering of stone, or the sound of ws and teeth tearing through flesh. I tilted my head back to gaze at the sky, my senses overwhelmed by the metallic scent of spilled blood and the stench of death, already rotting on the earth. And it all came from one race, the vampires. No better than orcs. Just as repulsive. The only difference was the vampires'' appearance was slightly more pleasing to the eye. From the balcony of my pce, I stood motionless, the cold wind tugging at my coat as I watched my soldiers pour into the courtyard like a tidal wave. Below, chaos bloomed. Pale and starving vampires moved in packs, their eyes ssy with hunger. And among them, the orcs charged. Big, green-skinned bastards with tusks and tangled hair, howling like rabid dogs, swinging crude iron clubs and jagged knives. I watched one of my guards seize an orc by the throat and hurl it against the stone wall like a ragdoll. Another overturned a wagon, smashing it to pieces. Vampires and orcs. Together. Abination I''d never seen before. And I wondered which idiot had opened the gates of the underworld and let them loose. Orcs couldn''t be trusted. My hand clenched so tightly it went white. When I found whoever was responsible for this, I''d rip their head from their shoulders. Leonidas appeared beside me, his expression grim, a sharp contrast from the man I''d seen earlier with Sean. "Looks like this show started a little early, he muttered. "They''re testing the borders," I growled. "Seeing how far they can push." "And?" Leonidas asked, though he already knew the answer. "They''ll die." As if my words had been a signal,.my forces surged forward with renewed fury. Silver swords gleamed under the moonlight, arrows whistled through the darkness. Most of my soldiers had already shifted into their wolf forms. A vampire''s head went flying. An orc copsed beneath the weight of five spears. But it wouldn''t be enough. This little skirmish was nothingpared to what wasing. I could already imagine it, seeing these creatures crawl out of the darkness in numbers too great to count. My anger simmered and boiled beneath the surface. I was still holding myself back, resisting the itch to tear through flesh and bone. A king doesn''t dive into every battle. They watches, chooses the right battlefield, and strikes where it matters most. "We can''t let this stand," Leonidas said, leaning his elbow against the marble railing. "You know what happens when those two crawl into bed together." Of course I did. ughter. Cities reduced to ash. Kingdoms wiped from existence. Other horrors no one dared to name aloud. "We summon the Council. Tonight. I didn''t build them to sit around enjoying theirforts," I said, my gaze darkening. "And if those old cowards drag their feet?" I turned to him, my eyes as cold as ice. "Then we raise the banner of war." Leonidas grinned. "Knew you''d say that." The council chamber felt suffocating the next day. Ancient walls hung with dusty banners. A long, ck obsidian table stretched down the center of the room. The Council had gathered; the Alphas, the Elders, representatives of every major house and allied race. Even Jayden was there, his usual rxed demeanor reced by tension. When the doors closed, the air thickened with rising voices usations,excuses. "We must defend our world! Set aside our grud Sessfully unlocked! "This has been the werewolf Pack''s problem from the start-" "If the Orcs are here, it means the treaty''s failed! Do you want to waste time pointing fingers?!" I listened to their nonsense with my arms crossed, my eyes half-lidded. They argued like pups fighting over a bone. I could Chapter 130 Orc and Vampire feel my nerves fraying and then finally, I rose to my feet. The room fell silent, cut off mid-sentence like a throat being slit. "If any of you would use your brains for a moment," I began, my voice as cold as winter itself, ¡°and think this is just one faction''s problem, then you''re already dead." No one dared to speak. I let my gaze sweep the room, daring anyone to challenge me. ¡°We are facing a reborn ancient alliance: orcs and vampires. And here you are, still clinging to your hatred for one another just because you''re of different races?" My voice rose an octave. "I''ve seen this before, long before any of you here, you young fools." "I will not let history repeat itself on mynd. You''re lucky I have more mercy in this era because if it were the old me, 1 would''ve simply stood by and watched you all burn from the heights of my castle," I added coldly. The color drained from their faces. Some shifted ufortably. Others averted their eyes. "Now, my wayward children, we either stand united, or we shatter into pieces. Make your choice. Quickly." Silence crept across the room. When no one spoke, I turned to the guards. "Clear this chamber until they can learn to act like grown men," I ordered. The guards rushed to obey, moving quickly to herd the council members out. One by one, the so-called Council filed out, most of them avoiding my gaze as they left. Only one person remained behind. Jayden. He lingered near the long table, one eyebrow raised. "Didn''t think you''d throw the entire room out." "I have no patience for fools," I said, moving toward the far wall where an ancient tapestry hung, deep crimson edged in gold. Jayden followed, his eyes flickering to the stone firece, then to the wall above it. His gazended on arge portrait, half- drenched in shadow. A woman. She sat there, carved in delicate, graceful detail. Her face held the gentleness and wisdom of a Luna, her hair cascading like strands of sunlight, her hands resting upon her knees, a serene smile touching her lips. She would remain immortal in that painting, forever captured in that moment. Jayden tilted his head, curiosity flickering in his eyes. "Who is she, Killian?" I fell silent for a moment. Even after all this time, looking at her still made something in my chest ache. "Ruby Lucienne. My queen." Jayden blinked, visibly surprised by the tenderness in my voice. ¡°What''s with that look?¡± I stared at him tly. "Did you think a tyrant like me was incapable of love? Please, immortality on this earth is exhausting enough on its own." Jayden looked at me, as if weighing something in his mind. Then he gave a small, pitying smile. I hated that look. "You still miss her," he responded. "Always." For a moment, the only sound was the crackling of the fire. Then Leonidas appeared in the doorway, his face unreadable. "I apologize for the interruption, Your Majesty," he said. "But we''ve received reports of movement near the southern breach." I sighed. "Ready the troops. Double the patrols. And send word to every allied faction. We meet again in three days. They''ll stand with us or they''ll burn." Leonidas nodded and disappeared without another word. Jayden turned back toward me. "You''re going down there, aren''t you?" I shrugged. "If that''s what they want." "Alright. I''ll be right behind you, brother." Subscribed Chapter 131 Chapter 131: Contractions Chapter 131: Contractions Ruby''s POV "Alice! Anna! Where are you?!" Chaos erupted around me. I moved with all my strength, searching for my children. My heart pounded violently in my chest, the sharp scent of smoke and blood burning in my nose. The twins. My first dan only thought. Panic consumed me, terrorized by all the terrible scenarios ying out in my mind. "My Moon Goddess, please help me," I sobbed. The walls of the Bloodmoon Pack shook, growls and the sh of metal echoing from outside. I searched desperately, back and forth, but couldn''t find them. Tears streamed down my face. "Mama!!" I jolted at the terrified cry of Anna amidst the chaos, my blood running cold. I stumbled barefoot into the hallway, my chest tightening as I forced myself toward the sound. "Alice! Anna!" I screamed, my voice cracking. The corridors were filled with terrified pack members; some carrying children, others bleeding and wounded. Mikael''s voice cut through the noise in the distance, shouting orders, already taking charge in Jayden''s absence. Warriors rushed past me, shifting into their wolf forms as they prepared to fight. Atst, I found my children. They were in Luna Karina''s embrace, clinging to her chest. The twins sobbed, clutching her like their final lifeline. "Rosalyn!" Karina called out, relief clear in her eyes. "Come, to the bunker. Now!" I ran, cradling my stomach, the world blurring around me, and soon knelt before them. My focus was solely on my children. "Oh God, I''m so d you''re safe!" I cried out, panicked. "I''m scared, Mama!" Alice wept, reaching for me. I gathered them both into my arms and hugged them tightly. I kissed the tops of their heads one by one, desperately seeking the warmth of their little bodies. It''s real, they were alive. "I''m here, darling, I''m here," I repeated over and over. "The bad people areing, Mama!" Anna sobbed along with Alice. "Please don''t go!" "I won''t, my love," I lied, brushing their hair back and kissing their tear-streaked cheeks. "You''ll be safe with Luna and me. She''ll protect you in the bunker too." "Mama, you have to promise!" Alice cried, refusing to let go. "Mama, I don''t want you to go!" "They''ll take you away!" Alice screamed hysterically. I swallowed hard, my heart breaking at the sight of the twins like this. I couldn''t just stay still. I had to help Mikael. We were clearly outnumbered. Losing him would be the end of me. I couldn''t bear to lose him. And then, suddenly, I heard the frightened voice of a child from a distance. "S-someone! Please, help me!" I froze, my skin prickling. It instantly awakened the mother wolf instinct within me. A child, alone, somewhere out there. The orcs would take them alive and that was thest thing anyone would ever wish for. I looked around, searching for any reinforcements. But it was only a group of women and children. Karina, realizing my intention, shot me a sharp look. "Rosalyn. Don''t you dare!" "I have to," I said, my voice trembling. "There''s a child out there. God knows how terrified they must be!" Karina gripped my arm. "Rosalyn, don''t! You''re pregnant! I can do this. You stay here!" "I''lle back. I have to help Mikael too, Karina." I forced my children away from me, handing them to Karina. "Listen to Luna, stay together. I promise I''lle back to you. I love you." The twins screamed, tears streaming down their faces as I pulled away. It shattered me. But I had no choice. I ran toward the voice, following the cracked path leading to a small house on the edge of the territory. I relied on my senses, sniffing out the child''s trail. My stomach turned as the scent of vampires and orcs filled the air. They had arge force. rms red in my mind. Inside the house, a little girl no older than four crouched under a table, crying. "Oh sweetheart, it''s alright. I''vee to save you." Chapter 131: Contractions I breathed, dropping down in front of her and gently coaxing her out. I nced around, searching for any sign of her family. But there was no one. I silently prayed for the safety of this child''s loved ones. "Come with me, little one," I whispered. Atst, the little girl reached out and clung to me. We were just about to leave when I caught the scent and presence of those vile creatures. The ground trembled beneath my feet, and horrifying, heavy voices echoed around us. "Find the remaining wolves!" "Take and hold them in hostage!" I paled at thosemands. Instinctively, I protectively wrapped my arms around the small, trembling body I had just rescued. We turned to find an escape route but we were toote. Three massive orcs stood there, blocking the area around the house. They snarled, their jagged teeth bared, crude weapons dripping with blood. Their eyes locked onto me and the child behind me. I felt my stomach tighten, my hand reaching for the nearest sharp object within my grasp, fury surging inside me. I bit the inside of my cheek, feeling a painful warning pulse grip my core. Oh god! I straightened my shoulders, cing myself firmly between the monsters and the child. "Stay back!" I wouldn''t let them take her. My hands trembled, ws beginning to extend from my fingertips. I could fight. I was strong enough to handle these three bastards in front of me. "Stay behind me," I whispered to the little girl. I prepared to shift, bracing myself as one of the orcs grinned, his fangs gleaming. Suddenly Mikael appeared. He was there in a sh, a blur of movement. His dagger shed the throat of the nearest orc, sending the beast copsing in a heap. The others barely had time to react before Mikael lunged again, his fury radiating like fire. "Get to the bunker!" he barked. "Mikael? Thank the goddess you''re safe!" My words caught in my throat as a contraction suddenly gripped my stomach. My breath hitched, cold sweat pouring down my pale face. Mikael''s expression shifted into panic. "I''m fine. It''s nothing, just a little pain." "You''re not fine! Don''t lie to me!" Mikael took my hand while taking over caring for the child. He carried the little girl in his arms, guiding us back toward the bunker. I barely remembered how we made it back ¨C fear hadpletely overtaken me. We descended into the bunker, moving through narrow tunnels, past bloodied warriors and terrified pack members. Karina was there, holding my twins. "Alice, it''s our mommy!!" "And dad too!" They both immediately threw themselves at me. I dropped to my knees, gathering them into my arms. "I''m here, my loves. I told you I''de back." Mikael knelt too, brushing the sweat-soaked hair away from my face. "Rosalyn, you were in pain back there, weren''t you? Let''s have them check." "Mikael, it was just a small contraction. Don''t worry." But Mikael didn''t believe me for a second. He moved closer, checking me over while I tried to dodge him. I was sure it was just falsebor, like the other days. I had marked down the healer''s predictions. I knew when the baby was due. The twins sobbed against my chest. "I want Alpha Jayde! He''ll make them go away!" cried Anna. "Alpha is out there fighting to keep us safe," Mikael said gently. "He''ll be back soon." "We have to be brave, alright?" I whispered, kissing their heads. ¡°Like the brave little wolves you are." But the words had barely left my lips before another powerful contraction struck me, stealing the breath from my lungs. I gasped, clutching my stomach. Mikael caught me immediately. "L-Love?" The pain was blinding, and I felt myself slipping, desperately trying to grab onto something. Thankfully, Mikael and Karina caught me before I copsed Chapter 131 Contractions "No! Not now," I gasped through gritted teeth. "The baby! Their ising." "Get the healer!" Mikael shouted. One of the healers was finally found within the wide bunker. She shouted, calling for anyone to fetch the birthing supplies Karina quickly stepped up, preparing a space for me to give birth. "Then get the supplies! Towels, water. Now!" The bunker was filled with panicked movement. I clung to Mikael''s arm as the next wave of pain struck, harder and sharper. I looked into the frightened eyes of my children, forcing a smile through the agony. "Mama''s strong, sweetheart. Wipe away those tears," I coaxed gently. No matter what happened this baby had to survive. I wanted this child to live. And if fate allowed, I wanted to live too. I couldn''t leave Mikael and my children behind. I loved this beautiful new life the gods had granted me so much. Mikael''s voice echoed in the distance, calling out words of encouragement, grounding me. Gods, please hear my prayer. Let me stay happy here. "Granted." Subscribed 0 Likes Chapter 132 Chapter 132: A Reminder Ruby''s POV I don''t remember much about the hours that followed. Only the pain. It came in waves, crashing over me like a violent storm, pulling me under again and again. Voices blurred together. Mikael''s hand never left mine. Karina''s gentle instructions, the twins'' frightened sobs, the scent of blood, sweat, and earth filling the bunker air. And then, atst after what felt like an eternity, the sound of a baby''s cries pierced through the frantic bunker. It was the most beautiful sound I''d heard since the day the twins were born. Tears blurred my vision as they ced a small, wriggling bundle into my arms. A perfect baby boy, his face still red and slick with birth, his hair as dark as night like Mikael''s, and lungs strong enough to announce his arrival to the entire pack. I held him tightly, my heart brimming with joy and overwhelming happiness. "He''s handsome," Mikael whispered, his voice rough and breaking with each word. He pressed his forehead against mine, and in that moment inside that narrow, battered room, with the war still raging above us. Nothing else mattered. The twins huddled around us, their eyes wide with wonder. "Is that our brother?" Alice asked in a half-whisper. I smiled, exhausted. "Yes, sweetheart. Your little brother." Anna reached out carefully, her tiny hand brushing his cheek. "He''s so small." "He''s perfect," I murmured. "Hm, our brother really looks like Dad." "Of course, just like me. Look at his charisma!" I let out a soft chuckle as Mikael lifted his chin proudly, patting his chest. The twins made unimpressed faces. Alice''s eyes sparkled, clearly tempted to touch her baby brother, and so did Anna, eager to hold him. But Mikael, noticing this, gently reminded his daughters that their baby brother was still too little to y. Alice sighed in disappointment, but she was always the more mature of the two. She coaxed her twin to wait until their brother was big enough to join them. Luna Karina wiped her tears, relief flooding her face. "You did it, Rosalyn. Have you two chosen a name?" I nced at Mikael. The man gave a tender smile and a nod. His thumb lovingly brushed the plump cheek of his newborn son. "Elias Torrance." I exchanged a nce with Luna Karina. We both smiled, silently agreeing on the name Mikael had chosen. Not long after, good news arrived. The Orcs and Vampires had been driven out of Bloodmoon Pack territory. Our warriors, fierce and loyal held the line until reinforcements arrived. The Bloodmoon Pack would live to see another day. We were safe. At least, for now. Days passed. Alpha Jayden returned safely. He looked like a man who had just walked out of hell. Bloodstained, tense, and battle-worn though his signature cheerful grin was still firmly in ce. The twins tackled him the moment he stepped through the door. Mikael pped him on the shoulder, and I pulled him into a tight embrace, grateful he had made it back. A small part of me felt at ease, knowing our family was whole again. Our son, Elias, became the heart of everything in those chaotic days. The twins'' friends constantly pestered them, eager to meet the youngest member of the pack, while Mikael rarely left our side. There was peace in those stolen moments. Warmth. And I clung to them. But the past is relentless. It waits, lurking in the shadows, creeping back when you least expect it. It came in the form of Leonidas. I found him leaning against the garden wall one afternoon, while the housey quiet and the twins napped. Mikael was outside helping with repairs. A perfect, dangerous silence waiting to be broken. I didn''t need to ask why he was there. He was Sessfully unlocked! is mind. "Shouldn''t you be halfway back to your castle by now: Jayu you to hold his hand and teach him the alphabet," I said, cradling Elias against my chest. "Couldn''t resist stopping by. Heard the news," Leonidas grinned, stepping closer to peek at the baby. "Damn. The kid''s already got his mother''s stubborn jaw." 1/ Chapter 132 A Reminder 1ughed, shaking my head. "You''re impossible." His grin faded, leaning back against the wall. "You alright? I mean your health." 1 looked down at Elias, brushing my thumb over his tiny fist. "As you can see I survived." "That''s what you''ve always been best at, Luna." The mention of that title made me freeze in ce. I knew exactly what he meant. "You can''t keep calling me that anymore. Mikael''s starting to get annoyed, you know" I chided him. His eyes softened. "Sorry. Sometimes I miss my old friend." My heart ached at his words. In my mind, I could see how it all began. The bond we shared. It had been a beautiful kind of friendship. We stood there in silence for a moment. The only sound was the wind stirring the trees. "Do you remember everything? From the very beginning?" Leonidas asked. I shook my head. "No. It came back gradually starting from when I was still a teenager." He winced at that. "That''s too young. Fate loves to y cruel games with its children." "Well, it doesn''t surprise me anymore," I said, ncing toward my house, lively as always whenever the twins were home." But my mate has always been there for me. Killian, he still doesn''t know, does he?" "No." His voice was gentler now. "But be careful. He''s starting to connect the dots NOW." "And you still haven''t told him." "He''s not ready. And neither are you. Am I right?" I hated how he could still read me so easily. "I don''t care if he knows anymore. Just be honest. You owe him that." Leonidas gave a soft, not entirely happyugh. "I owe him more than that. But it doesn''t mean this is the right time. He may look the same but mentally, he''s not. Losing you was the start of his unraveling. And I know it''s going to hurt before it heals." I fought to hold back the heavy sadness in my chest. "Truthfully, I never asked for this life. I didn''t choose toe back. I had made my peace with fading away, forever." "I know." His gaze met mine, steady and quiet. "But here you are. And so is he." I looked down at Elias, feeling the heavy knot of old wounds tightening inside me. Memories of a life long gone of blonde hair, stolen nights, and a love torn apart by betrayal. "I want to say firmly here that I have a family now," I said. "I love Mikael Torrance. I have my children. I hope you understand I can''t go back to what we were if you alwayse to this pack." "Absolutely not. You fucking deserve that, as I told you from the beginning, Rosalyn,¡± Leonidas said casually. ¡°Don''t let the past steal that from you. But one day, you''ll have to face it. And when that dayes, the two of you will have to decide what to do with what''s left." I nodded, unable to speak with the weight of old scars pressing on me. He stepped away from the wall, his familiar grin returning. "Take care, Little Wolf." And then he was gone. I stood there as the evening sunlight filtered through the trees, my son warm against my chest, my heart full of too many things. ''Do you want to be the first to be honest?'' Leia''s voice, my wolf, rose softly in my mind. I let out a long sigh. ''We''ll see, Leia.'' Chapter 133 Chapter 133: I Lost Her Killian''s POV "Aaa! I don''t like this!" "This sight is hurting my eyes!" "Killian, please! Tell all your servants to clean this up, now!" Elysian had been causing a racket in my head non-stop ever since those despicable creatures wreaked havoc on the Sundrench kingdom''snds. As much as I hate to admit it, every werewolf''s wolf spirit reflects their human personality fifty or even a hundred percent. That''s why, to be honest, I''m extremely unhappy with all this chaos Loving to fight or kill doesn''t mean loving a mess. "Killian, are you listening to me?!" I let out a long sigh, pinching the bridge of my nose in exhaustion. Elysian was rampaging endlessly "Elysian, I''m not deaf, okay? I''ll take care of it." "It''s not my fault I''mining! You''ve been ignoring me this whole time? Elysian grumbled "Forgive me, I didn''t mean to." - I walked along the stone path, ignoring Elysian''s startled reaction. "D-did you just apologize?!" she shrieked dramatically. "I don''t see what''s wrong with that. Now be quiet." Elysian curled up inside my mindscape, her fur bristling and her muzzle hanging open. "Oh my god, the world is ending!" Rolling my eyes, I reached where mypanions were waiting. They greeted me with formal salutes, though I barely acknowledged them. Now back at my residence, I found that even though the first battle had ended and the servants had worked tirelessly to clean up the aftermath, the stench still lingered in the cracks between the marble floors and walls. That heavy, metallic scent that no amount of polish could erase. Maybe it would take rain to wash it away. And I wasn''t doing much better myself. My cloak hung loosely over my shoulders, tattered, torn, and darkened by dried blood some of it mine, some of it not. My bare chest was marked with half-healed wounds and bruises, every inch of my skin smeared with grime. My hair was a tangled mess, matted with sweat and dirt. In one hand, I clutched a half-dried bottle of wine, though for all it mattered, it might as well have been water. I crossed the threshold into my private chambers like a headless corpse, my legs heavier than they should''ve been. The weight of bloodshed old and new pressed against my bones. And yet, it wasn''t the worst of it. There was something deeper, something far more painful that left me in this state. The door creaked open behind me. "Oh, heavens above!" Sean''s voice cracked with panic. I turned, blinking wearily at my poor, wide-eyed steward. His usually neat hair had slipped free from its tie, and he gaped at me as though I were some kind of wild beast. His clothes, too, weren''t as pristine as they normally were he''d clearly been helping the pce guards fend off intruders. "My lord!" he gasped, rushing forward. "What happened to you?! Why didn''t anyone send word? How long has it been by the gods, I''ll lose my mind, surrounded by these idiots!" He paused his frantic rambling long enough to nce behind him. "Healers! Now! Fetch the royal physician and bring hot water! Change the bedding! Quickly!" I didn''t resist when Sean gently pried the bottle from my fingers. I was too exhausted to care. "Your Majesty, please let me take care of you." "Do whatever you want," I muttered. I barely noticed the soft touch of his hands as he carefully removed what was left of my cloak and shirt. The cool cloth pressed against my skin, stinging the open wc Sessfully unlocked! rightened birds, carrying supplies and gathering around me in silent, anxious movements I let them work. Cleaning the blood, stitching the gashes, binding the bruises. What difference did it make? These wounds would heal. But not the one beneath my ribs. 112 Chapter 133 / Lost Her "Still alive, I see." Leonidas''s voice cut through the haze. I looked up as he strolled in, leaning casually against the doorway as though he didn''t have a care in the world even with a split lip and a bruise darkening his jaw. His hair was a mess, dirt streaking his face, yet that same damn grin tugged at theer of his mouth. "I should''ve known you''d be drinking yourself half to death, he added. "Unfortunately, that''s never going to happen," I replied tly. "Pathetic. Could''ve saved me a lot of trouble." He crossed the room, grabbed the wine bottle Sean had left behind, and took a long, deep drink. Sean looked horrified but wisely kept his mouth shut. Leonidas shot him a sidelong nce, and a faint flush colored his face. I turned away, not wanting to witness even a hint of romance in this room. I shook my head. "Still the same reckless fool." "And you''re still the brooding, grumbling, bloodthirsty tyrant." He grinned, but his expression shifted slightly as he looked at me. "Though, honestly, you look terrible." "Your concern is truly touching." Heughed. "I try." For a while, the room fell into a quiet lull, filled only by the crackling of the fire and the soft movernents of the servants as they continued to clean. Leonidas dropped himself into the chair across from me. "I heard," he said after a pause, his voice lower now. "About the retreat. The Bloodmoon faction held their ground." "They fought well," I murmured, my gaze distant. "I figured they would." Leonidas spun the bottle in his hand. "And you know what? I''ve got the craziest news you''re going to love." "What is it?" "Rosalyn, Mikale''s beta mate. She was in the bunker! Can you believe it? I didn''t think she''d make it, not with the baby." He took another drink. I listened as Leonidas went on, telling me about a small, happy family in Aberdeen City. They now had three children, with the youngest being a boy. Mikael was proudly parading him around, showing him off to anyone who''d look. Alpha Jayden, just as ridiculous as his brother, was apparently boasting about the new wolf pup to everyone after they returned to the pack. It was a happy story, one so warm it shattered my heart into pieces. Leonidas grew more animated with every word, so I decided it was time to put an end to it. ¡°Beta Leonidas," I began, my voice a low growl. "I hope you''ll be honest with your king. How long have you known?" He blinked in confusion. "Known what?" I bared my teeth. "Don''t y dumb, Leo. How long have you known she was Ruby?" For a split second, surprise flickered in that one eye of his quickly reced by guilt. Leonidas leaned back in his chair, still casually swirling the wine in his hand. "I didn''t think you''d figure it out without me telling you," he said. "Just answer me," I hissed. "Since the very first day, actually." I closed my eyes, fighting the urge to lunge at this damned bastard. "It''s simple, really. It''s a soul resonance," Leonidas exined, wiping a hand down his face. "Doesn''t matter where you are or what form you take. A soul is still a same.. You know that better than anyone." He let out a breath. "At first, I didn''t want to believe it either. But my wolf told me... the scent, the aura. It was the Honestly, I was surprised it took you this long." He tilted his head slightly, adding, "Were you in denial?" I scoffed, "This isn''t about me being in denial or too much of an idiot to realize it. This is about you, Leonidas." He held my gaze. "Would you have believed me?" "I had the right to know." Leonidas didn''t look away, and the grin vanished from his face. "I had my reasons. Believe me, even if I didn''t like them. Look at yourself, Killian. You''re not stable." I wanted to tear into him for daring toment on my state of mind. But doing so would''ve only proven his point. I didn''t Chapter 133 / Lost Her need that spelled out for me. "You''ve spent centuries burying it. Hating yourself. ming me. ming everyone. You couldn''t handle the decades o not without burning the whole damn world down, he said. My hands clenched into fists. "Don''t pretend you know what I can handle "I don''t have to pretend." He sighed, running a hand through his dirty, tangled hair. "You''re my battle brother My king My friend I know you better than anyone. And I know this will destroy you." He wasn''t wrong. That only made it worse. I stared nkly at the tapestry beneath my feet. Sean had left some time ago leaving only Leonidas to answer me. I swallowed, the taste bitter. "She looks happy, doesn''t she?" "She does. Just like you once saw her," he replied. But neither of us wanted to go further down that road not with my fragile state of mind. He finished his wine, set the battle aside, and stood from his chair. "Get some rest. You look like a corpse." I lifted my gaze. "Look after yourself, Beta." "Just a suggestion, Killian. Get some sleep. I''ll deal with those council idiots in the morning." And with that, he left. The room fell silent again, save for the flicker of firelight against stone. I leaned back in my char and closed my eyes. And in the thick stillness of it all, a single tear finally slipped free. I had lost the love of my lifepletely Subscribed Chapter 134 Chapter 194 Eyes Heee, and tips Fan! Chapter 134: Eyes, Nose, and Lips Part 1 Killian''s POV The scent of despair still lingered in the r 1 never thought I''d see something like this again (muttered ''So, you''ve finally decided to crawl out of that ce you call a room and y outde Weave year old chasing bytterst Elysian teased through our link "I think it''s time we stopped mourning" ''Maybe but not with your heart. The sky in your inner world is still so dark, dan I felt quilty toward him. A Lycan''s or werewolf''s inner world mostly reflects the emotional state of its human evnterpart. A gloomy sky meant the person was emotionally unstable. Elysian oftenined because it would rain and storm to often in our shared inner world. And it all came down to one person. I tried to suppress the grief and bitterness that weighed hearly on my chest I could mourn my fateter. A king has a schedule to manage his kingdom. No matter how broken he might be inside Now, I stood outside the kingdom. Elysian let out a mournful sound as the lingering scent of grief clung to this ce like a curse. The security post was nothing more than an improvised camp. A collection of half built shelters, broken caravan. and tents hastily thrown up among shattered trees. This was all that remained of half a dozen small packs that won''t strong enough to fend off the Orcs. And here I was, standing in the middle of it all. ¡°Alright, Leo,¡± I said, pointing at the map spread out on the battered table in front of us, "we''re going to reinforce the borders and relocate the survivors. Food, shelter maybe even weapons. I want every small pack in this region protected" Leonidas, already halfway through chewing an apple, froze mid-bite. He blinked at me as though he''d just witnessed a falling star. "Huh?" "You heard me, Leonidas." He swallowed the chunk of apple with difficulty, still looking dazed. "Okay, hold on a sec, buddy. Did you hit your head while I wasn''t looking? Or did someone spill wine into your drink? Because I just heard you say ''help them, and I just need a moment to adjust." I stared at him tly. "I''m serious." "You mean you''re actually serious about helping someone? Now that''s terrifying." He grinned, tossing the apple core carelessly over his shoulder. "Since when did the great Killian Rudwick, the immortal King of the Lycans and Lord of Gloom, decide to y savior?" "These wolves are ours," I replied simply, already starting to feel a headache brewing from being interrogated nonstop. "No matter how small the pack, no matter how weak. They are under our protection. That''s thew I reinstated." Leonidas whistled, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Damn. Who knew the old tyrant had a soft spot? Next thing you know, you''ll be adopting stray wolf pups and baking pies." I smirked despite myself. "Don''t push it." He chuckled, patting my back as we made our way toward the post manager''s tent ¨C a sagging structure with faded canvas walls and a crude wooden sign. The man inside was a gaunt, grey-haired Beta from one of the packs that had been wiped out. He had taken over the post when there were no Alphas or Betas left capable of leading. His face was drawn and weary, his beard streaked with ash, but his eyes still burned with a flicker of youthful defiance. "My King," he greeted stiffly with a bow. "There''s no need for that," I said, waving it off. "We''re here to help. I''ll be sending supplies, guards, healers. Anyon spare." can The Beta''s eyes widened, disbelief shing in his expression. "Y-Your Majesty... is that true? B-but we don''t deserve such mercy. We failed to hold-" "You survived. You protected your people. Tha Sessfully unlocked! The tight set of his shoulders eased, relief softening the hard lines of his face. "Thank you, Your Majesty." I left Leonidas to handle the details. Honestly, I needed the open air to clear my head. Chapter 134 Eyes, Nose, and Lips Part! The weight of the crown was constant, pressing against my bones. It had been far too long since I''d walked among the living like this, without titles or guards. Thest time I did, I ended up harassed by a group of rogue vampires So I wandered. The camp sprawled in uneven rows. Children yed near torn tents, heaters tended to the wounded Wolves, humans, and a few other stranded races moved warily around each other after the horror they''d endured. They still bore the trauma battling the anxiety that clung to them like a second skin, trying to reim some sense of normalcy And I couldn''t me them. Anyone would crumble when the peace they''d known all their lives was shattered by two creatures so rare, they were practically myths; relics of a time thought long gone. And then, that was when I finally saw her. A familiar woman, kneeling beside a group of wolf pups, their fur matted, their eyes far too big for their small faces. One of them had a wound on its tiny hand, another limped as it tried to climb into herp as if she were their mother. And there she was a steady anchor in the middle of chaos, her hair catching thete afternoon light, her face smeared with dirt, her sleeves rolled up as she tended to them. Rosalyn. My chest tightened, breath catching in my throat. I had no idea how long I stood there, watching her. How the world seemed to shrink down to nothing but her. The way her hand gently brushed the pup''s head, the soft words I couldn''t hear, the way her smile flickered in and out, as if it physically hurt to hold. Then after what felt like minutes our eyes met. And the world tilted. It felt like a fist struck square into my chest, sharp and deep, knocking the air from my lungs. Her eyes. Gods, even though they no longer held that ocean-blue color I once adored, they still carried the same spark. Why did it take me so long to realize. This was the person I had mourned for decades. Without thinking, I stepped forward. She tensed, her lips parting slightly, a shadow passing across her face. She must have known or at least suspected that I''d caught her. Rosalyn could no longer hide from her old identity. "Rosalyn." The name came out rougher than I intended. Rosalyn swallowed, gently setting down thest pup. "Your Majesty." It stung. It always when it came from her. "I didn''t expect to find you here,¡± I said. She stood up, brushing dirt from her skirt. "A-as you can see, I came to help. They need someone. Those little ones... they''ve lost their parents." "And what about your own children? I heard you recently gave birth," I replied as neutrally as possible. "They have nannies, Your Majesty." I gave a small nod. "And your mate?" "He''s with Alpha Jayden. He''ll be here soon." I nced at the wolf pups, then back at her. We fell into a heavy silence within this new, fragile bubble we''d unknowingly created. Neither of us wanted to be the one to break it. Until one little wolf pup tugged at Rosalyn, asking her to stick a ster on his forehead though there wasn''t a scratch in sight. Rosalynughed at the boy''s innocent antics. I almost closed my eyes, letting that sound wash over me. Thatugh was soft, melodic, and achingly familiar felt like it could mend a soul already long shattered. "You always do that." "Do what?" she asked, her voice a little too cautious. ¡°Help. Save people. Even when it costs you everything." There was a flicker of something in those hazel eyes; pain and perhaps the ghost of old memories. "I don''t recall you knowing me that well," she murmured, her voice unsteady. I gave a bitter smile. "You''d be surprised." For a moment, we just looked at each other. I could see it, the whites of her eyes turning red, her irises shimmering with unshed tears. I was about to speak when she beat me to it. "I have to go." Chapter 134 Eyes, Nose, and Lips Parti "Rosalyn- But she was already moving, walking away with her head held high, her little group of pups following her toward a tent where the children would receive extra care and food. I clenched my fists so tightly it hurt, resisting the urge to reach for her in that very moment. I wanted to talk to her properly. At least to apologize to atone, however she wished. Even if it cost me my life. But me this tyrant couldn''t even manage a single word. ''Killian, just do it.'' My eyelids lowered wearily. "Now or never." Chapter 135 hapter 135: Eyes, Nose, and Lips Part II Killian''s POV I told myself a thousand times not to do this. It would be better to bury it all. Memory of her, my sins, the blood centuries-old between us. But the moment I saw her standing there, alone in the open beyond the post, sunlight catching in her hair. Every lie I had ever told myself shattered into pieces. No matter her form or appearance. That heartbeat was still there. It''s almostughable, how I truly fell in love with her only after she had died by my hand. I could practically hear Leonidas mocking me for my cowardice, hiding here, just watching her. "Just do it, you fool. How long will you keep running?" "Isn''t this what you''ve been waiting for?" "She''s right in front of you!" Leonidas'' words echoed in my head. Even Elysian, my wolf, agreed with him. I drew a deep breath, swallowing the bitterness that rose within me. Finally, I stepped out from my hiding ce and approached her once more. "Rosalyn," I called. She flinched where she stood. The joy and peace in her expression vanished in an instant. "Your Majesty? I thought you had already returned to the kingdom," she said stiffly. ¡°I should have. But I need to speak with you," I admitted, standing beside her. ¡°Do you still have your shift watching over the wolf pups?" Rosalyn''s eyes narrowed warily. "No." "Then maybe you have a moment to spare?" She crossed her arms, lifting her chin. "What is it you wish to say to me, Your Highness?" That title always stung when spoken by her. Ruby would usually just call my first name she only used that foolish title to tease me. I almost wanted tough. So this... this is what constant heartbreak feels like. "Please," I murmured. "Five minutes. Then you can leave, and I won''t follow." She hesitated, then gave a firm nod. "Alright." I led her to the edge of the forest, where the trees leaned inward like silent witnesses. It was quiet there, save for the rustling of leaves and the distant sounds of the pack at work. Somehow, it felt right and yet, so very wrong. Maybe because of the simple truth that she was no longer mine. When she stopped, her arms still crossed, her eyes sharp as des, I knew this wouldn''t be easy. And who could me her, when I was the viin in this story? "I know who you are," I began, my voice rough. "You''re not just Rosalyn Torrance. Not just Mikael''s mate. You know what I mean, don''t you, Ruby?" For a moment, shock flickered across her face before it was reced by that familiar mask of cold, emotionless calm. And it made me sink even deeper into myself, to feel that coldness directed at me. Her lips pressed into a thin, tight line. "And?" God. Where do I even begin? "I should''ve known sooner. The signs were there - in your eyes, your voice, the way you moved." My throat tightened. "You haven''t changed." "It seems like I have," she spat, fierce and unyielding. "I died, Killian. Because I was murdered. And you know that damn well." The weight of guilt pressed heavier on my shoulders. I nodded, unable to form words, my tongue heavy. She went on, a storm finally breaking free. "Do you remember the look on my face when you gave the order for my execution? When you let them drag me out into that courtyard like I was nothing? Like I hadn''t fought beside you, bled for you, loved you?" "I remember everything," I rasped. Sessfully unlocked! Those memories carved themselves into me like open wounus. mer yoiden hair tangled in the wind. Her eyes filled with disbelief, and heartbreak. Her sword raised. Her blood on my hands. "I was a coward," I said bitterly. "I let them twist my mind. I let their lies poison me. I let fear control me. And when they came for you I didn''t stop them. I didn''t save you." Chapter 135 Eyes, Nose, and Lips Part 1 The words broke in my throat, like shards cutting as they came out. "I failed you, Ruby. The only person who ever saw me as more than what I was." She turned away, her shoulders tense. "It doesn''t matter anymore. That life is over." "It matters to me, I countered quickly, stepping closer though I didn''t dare to touch her. "I''ve carried your death like a stone around my neck for a thousand years. Every battle I fought, every night I lived through, I hated myself for what I did to you." She said nothing. The corners of her eyes reddened, holding back tears. The wind stirred between the trees like a sigh. "I never stopped loving you," I said, barely a whisper. "Even after you were gone. Even when I was sure you hated me. Even now." ''Stop it, she snapped, her voice tight with anger and pain. "I''m not asking you to forgive me," I said quickly. "God knows I don''t deserve it. I just..... I just want you to know that I acknowledge my sins. That I betrayed you. And if you hate me for the rest of your life, I will bear it." I looked at her and her eyes cut deeper than any de. "But if there''s any part of you," I said, my voice trembling, "that remembers the man I was before I hurt you. The one who fought for you, who was loyal, who would tear the world apart for you... I want him back. Even if it''s just to stand by your side now." Tears brimmed in her eyes. She wiped them away roughly with her sleeve. "I forgave you a long time ago," she said quietly. "Maybe even before I died. It wasn''t hatred that hurt, Killian. It was knowing that when the world turned against me, you of all people didn''t believe me." I swallowed hard, guilt burning through me like fire. "I don''t know how to look at you," she confessed, shaking her head, her hands clenched against her chest. "I see you, and it feels like I''m split in two. Part of me still loves you, and the other remembers what it felt like when you let me fall." I took a step back, my throat tight. "I don''t want to hurt you again.¡± "I know," she whispered. We stood there, in silence, past and present tangled together like old wounds. "I can''t be who I was," she sobbed, clutching her hair as if trying to tear the pain away. "I have a family now. You''ve seen them. And I love them." "I won''t ask you to leave them," I said honestly, though my heart splintered into a thousand pieces. "I would never take them from you." "I know," she repeated. "Thank you for forgiving me." That single word was all I could manage to say, the only closure I could offer. In response, she gave me a formal salute. A long silence stretched between us, thick with the weight of years neither of us could truly let go. Then, the sound of approaching footsteps. Mikael. Relief washed over his face as his eyes found hers. "There you are. I was looking for you thought you''d vanished off the face of the earth," he said, with his usual hint of humor. The Beta moved to her side, casting me a wary nce. Rosalyn gave Mikael a light tap on the chest, though her eyes never left mine. "What do you think I am? A snail? Come on, let''s get back to the post," Rosalyn replied. Together, Rosalyn and Mikael asked permission to leave. Then, side by side, they walked away from that ce. And right then I felt thest part of her slip away from me once again. At least she''s happy. That''s enough even if it isn''t me by her side. I watched as she took Mikael''s hand, leaning him, the two of them speaking softly, sharing warmth. I let out a long, steady breath. This time, I wouldn''t follow. I would carry what I had done, and be better because of it whether she ever looked my way again or not. Because some debts can never be repaid. And some pasts are meant to stay buried. Subscribed 0 Likes Chapter 136 No Victory Without Sacrifice Chapter 136 Chapter 136: No Victory Without Sacrifice Killian''s POV "So, how did it turn out?" I recognized the voice as Leonidas''s. I was in no mood for conversation. Especially not with Exyson will song agony inside my head. It felt like my entire body was being torn apart "What do you think, Leonidas? Apologizing to the lover you already executed. Beaten fraglied with staney sweet tone. The one-eyed Beta winced. "Yeah, I can see that. But did she forgive you?" "She did. Isn''t she just the kindest soul?" A soft chuckle slipped from his lips. He stared straight at the settlement below from the high ground "You haven''t changed a bit. Still the gentle, tender-hearted girl, Leonidas said, reminiscing "I don''t think it''s normal. She should hate me, I answered bitterly I wiped my face in exhaustion. It would''ve been easier if she did. But, as always, everything about that gir defies logo for just don''t understand. "That''s the difference between us and Ruby, my King" Leonidas reached into his pocket, pulled out a cigarette, and ced it between his lips. A fame spated a telo raks curling above him. "I suppose that''s why she was reincarnated into a better life. Though I don''t believe in that stuff. Gods or Site, hey bre toying with people''s lives," he said. I frowned. It wasn''t until Leonidas brought it up that I truly started thinking about all of this. Yes, something about it fet off Life rarely moves so smoothly. From the information I''d gathered, Ruby was living a life twice as blissful as what anyone could call ''happy. Unlike her past. Everythinges at a price. A cold shiver ran down my spine. No. I didn''t want my suspicions to be true. That angel-hearted woman had suffered more than enough. I could only hope that, this time, fate wasn''t ying another cruel joke on her life. I will ept the pain of losing her in this life. But never again will I stand by and watch her drown in sorrow Leonidas patted my shoulder. "Grieve for as long as you need. You have every right to. But remember this. You''re not alone" A mockingugh escaped me as I took the cigar he offered. "How sweet of you, Beta." Leonidas, ever tactful, smoothly changed the topic. I appreciated that. I''d had enough of this heartbreak nonsense. I was genuinely happy that Leonidas had finally found his true mate: Sean. It was about time that bastard retired from his yboy career. Many women were heartbroken now that Leonidas was taken, and more so because his partner was a man. What disgusted me was that people still held onto their prejudice. If they hadints or hatred, they should take it up with the Moon Goddess. She''s the one who fated Leonidas and Sean to be soulmates. "What do you think I should get him as a gift? He''s probably sulking because I''ve been away too long." I rolled my eyes at the clinginess. "Anything he likes." "Be more specific, Killian," he grumbled. "Beta, I am your king," I replied, my headache ring. "Let me remind you for the thousandth time. Second, I''m a heartbroken man still crawling through the ruins of love and rtionships. You''re asking advice from-" Suddenly, a scream pierced the air from afar. My instincts kicked in, and my red eyes scanned the surroundings Leonidas felt it too. He sniffed the air, and the ebony ck in his eyes shifted to gold. "Your Majesty?" "Yes. We''re under attack. Move!" And then, the sky itself seemed to rip open. We ran a fact as we could. By the time we reached the outpost, it had already be a field of death. Sessfully unlocked! I saw the vampires first. Pale, shrieking creatures with pivoustameu anys, nurling themselves against the outpost walls like a tide of death. Behind them, the orcs surged forward, massive and feral, their roars shaking the earth, crude swords catching the ze of firelight. Rage boiled inside me. Damn it! Weren''t they supposed to have retreated back to the Underworld by now?! Chapter 136: No Victory Without Sacrifice "Sound the rm!" My scream echoed across the battlefield. My hand transformed into a massive w, my voice cutting through the chaos. Many fierce warriors rose again, fueled by hatred. Too many had already fallen. The grief was still fresh. For these two cursed races to attack now, while our people were still mourning, was nothing short of a foolish mistake. Leonidas appeared by my side in an instant, a sword drawn where he''d gotten it, I didn''t know. It didn''t quite suit him, considering he was a Lycan like me. He grinned like a man possessed. "Looks like round two has begun, Your Majesty." I clenched my teeth. "I''ll need more than wine and a vacation after this." "You''re not alone in that, Your Majesty." We fought our way toward the heart of the encampment. Wolves shifted mid- charge, soldiers rallied, and des from other allied races shed in the chaos. The earth churned with blood and mud. The air rang with the sh of steel and the cries of the dying. I spotted Rosalyn in the distance, clutching a small child in her arms, her face pale with fear as Mikael guided her toward the safety of the tents. For a moment, I couldn''t breathe. The only thing on my mind was her safety and her family''s. "Get them out of here!" I shouted to the nearby warriors. "Evacuate the women and children first!" "NOW!" The vampires howled in fury as we pushed them back into a corner. Arrows rained down like a ck storm, wolves lunged, and slowly, inch by bloody inch, we began to reim ground. The tide of battle paused, then began to turn in our favor. "Move them to the western ridge!" Jayden''s voice cut through the chaos as he reached me, blood smeared across his face." We''ve cleared a path. It''s ourst shot!" I nodded. "Do it. All of you!" Discement and Despair. I watched them evacuate. Families torn from their homes, their lives crammed into wagons, children sobbing, the wounded being dragged along. It felt like a dagger to the chest. No king ever wants to see his people flee like frightened prey. Not even a tyrant like me. I clenched my fists. This wasn''t about survival anymore. If this war dragged on any longer, civilians or humans would start to notice. And only the gods knew what would happen then. They would be exposed, and worse, this world would be swallowed by darkness. Jayden turned to me, his gaze sharp. "We can''t keep doing this, Killian. Every time we rebuild, theye back stronger. Sooner orter, we''ll fall." "I have one idea. But it''s extremely risky." He didn''t need to exin the whole damned thing. I could feel it deep in my bones. Jayden exhaled slowly, his voice grim. "We end this. With your idea or some other way. We wipe them out. Everyst one of them.¡± Leonidas cursed under his breath. "And how exactly do you n on luring them all to one ce? You two have discussed this before." Jayden''s expression darkened instantly. He clearly didn''t want to make his brother a martyr. And neither did I. "We did. But that n needs revisiting," he countered. "We''re running out of time, Jayden. That''s why I''ll do it," Mikael said, stepping into the circle, his face pale. "I''ll draw them out. Lure them into the open. You finish it." "No!" Rosalyn''s voice shattered the tension. "I won''t allow it! Don''t go. Please, Mikael!" I turned to see her standing there, that parentless baby clutched in her arms, her hair in disarray, eyes zing. She was terrified and furious. "You can''t," Rosalyn said, her voice trembling. "Mikael, you have to stay. With me." "You promised me," she whispered, tears clinging to hershes. "We just had Elias. The twins. We all need you." I could feel it every word. The love, the pain, the desperation. Even Leonidas lowered his head in silence. But above all the Chapter 136. No Victory Without Sacrifice emotions tangled in the air, one thing pierced through my heart more than anything else The way Ruby loved Mikael. "I won''t let you do this," Rosalyn sobbed. But war does not wait for peace of heart. And I knew, in the silence between them, that he would go. "Forgive me, my love. I''ll try toe back to you as soon as I can, okay?" His thumb gently wiped away her tears. He kissed her with every ounce of feeling be had before turning away. Rosalyn clutched the innocent child tightly to her chest, her sobs breaking something inside me. Jayden''s expression shifted. His brother and his Beta was about to be a living bait. He looked shattered. "I''ll take his ce," Jayden said hollowly. I understood what he meant before anyone else did. When Jayden fell, Mikael would be the one whose name was written to have the final chance at survival. Mikael. I should have stepped in. But the end of a war dulls everything except instinct. Battle is pure ughter. Mikael sprinted forward, a lone figure in the open, his voice rising, luring them out. And it worked. The monsters poured from the forest, blinded by hunger and bloodlust, chasing him straight into the trap. But as we closed in, we were toote. An orc''s de shed him down, bringing him to his knees. Mikael copsed, blood staining the grass, hisst breath leaving with Rosalyn''s name on his lips. Jayden stood over him, his face broken beyond repair. "I''m sorry, brother." My blood roared in my ears. He had done it for the survival of his pack. But God, at what cost? I turned to see Rosalyn screaming, running toward us, her world shattering all over again. And I had failed to protect her from the miserable. ? 0 Likes Subscribed Chapter 137 Chapter 137: Sorrow and Mourning Ruby''s POV I never realized how crushing loneliness could be until Mikael was go Every day, the house feels emptier, and everything has turned monochrome. There''s more cold than warmth, em tor the heater is always on. The twins'' cries echo through the empty rooms, a constant reminder of what''s missen th Their little voices are the only sounds that pierce through the numb sidence, and sagetimes, I hate myself toy wishing would all just stop for a moment so i could breathe. "Mom, is it true that daddy''s nevering back?" Anna sobbed. Alice cut in, her tone firmer. "Isn''t it obvious? Dead people stay underground forever" "B-but, daddy was strong! He wasn''t supposed to die!" Anna cried out. "Tell him that at his grave." Alice has grown into a cold and hardened little girl over time. She''s more realistic, even as a child, it breaks my heart to see her this way. She acts like that so Anna would stopining to me, because Alice knows her mother is still geteg "It''s okay, mom. I understand." I almost broke down when those words came out of my little girl''s mouth. I''m supposed to be strong. Mikael''s Beta parte. The mother of his children. I carry his legacy. But nearly every day, I feel like a corpse within my own body. There''s a heaviness in my chest that never goes away, as if my heart is weighed down by stones. I keep moving because! have to, not because I want to. I feed the twins, clean, tuck them in. I take care of them as any decent mother should. But there''s no life behind my eyes as I do it. Sometimes I look in the mirror and don''t recognize the woman staring back. She''s pale, thin, and hollow-eyed. She looks older than sorrow itself. The worst part is, I still have one baby. And Anna isn''t like her twin. She still doesn''t understand where her father went. I don''t me her. She''s still too young to grasp what death truly means. Many times I have to soothe her,fort her, because her father is no longer here to wrap her in his warm embrace. As a werewolf, it''s incredibly hard to let go of the one you love. Mikael''s scent is fading from the house, from their nkets, from me. And every day, I still see the twins looking for him after school, calling for him in their small, broken voices. "Dad?" It shattered me. I held them tightly and lied. I told them he was with the Moon Goddess, that he was watching over them from the stars. Alice didn''t believe it as easily as Anna did, even though tears streamed down her cheeks. Today was worse than usual. I managed to hold it together until they fell asleep, the two of them curled up together in the middle of the bed. Their small bodies huddled so closely, as if staying near each other could somehow keep the world from falling apart. I waited until their breathing grew steady, then I slipped out. The room across the hallway used to be ours. Mikael''s scent still lingers faintly on his pillow, on an old shirt I refuse to wash. It''s a cruel kind offort, clinging to thest traces of him, knowing it will fade no matter what I do. I closed the door behind me, slid down to the floor, and finally let it all break open. "How could you leave me like this, Mikael?" A sob tore from my throat before I could stop it. I covered my mouth with both hands, a useless effort, as the dam of tears burst through anyway. "I didn''t even get to hear yourst goodbye!" "This is cruel!" I don''t know how long I stayed like that, curled up on the floor like a wounded animal. And I didn''t even hear the de pen. "Rosalyn?" I froze the moment I recognized the voice. Shame flushed through me at being found in such a state. Karina crossed the room in seconds, kneeling beside me. She immediately wrapped her arms around me, and that alone was enough to make me fall apart again. Sessfully unlocked! "I''m sorry," I managed to choke out, my face bu.ed agairent her shoulder houldn''t be this weak. I''m letting Mikael down "Stop that." I could hear the sorrow in her gentle reprimand. "You don''t have to be strong right now. You''re allowed to fall apart.". Chapter 13) Songs and org I didn''t believe her. I didn''t think I could fall apart when my children stal needed me, when the park still looked to me as the Beta''s mate Still, I let myself cling to her, because pretending to be strong wasn''t working and for once, it felt good not to be alone in all of this She stroked my har like a mother would, even though she wasn''t any older than me. "I miss him so much, I whispered "I know, she said softly. "We all do. But I could see how you loved him in a way noe else did. That''s not something you can just set aside, Rosalyn Don''t even try" I closed my eyes, fresh tears burning as they fell, 1 don''t know who I arn without him. I don''t know how to do this without him." Karina pulled back just enough to look into my eyes. "You don''t have to have all the answers right now. You just need to keep going. One thing I know for sure Mikael would want you to keep living and to find joy again, with your children." My cries were muffled in her embrace. It hurt so deeply to hear his name spoken like that. It''s seems something from the past, as if he were just a story we''d one day tell the children. "I keep thinking I''ll hear his voice, I admitted in defeat. "I swear, sometimes I hear him calling my name. Or feel his hand on my back. It''s stupid, isn''t it?" "Not at all, Karina said gently. "That''s the very definition of true love and the bond you shared. It doesn''t just disappear because his heart stopped beating." My body trembled violently. I kept pouring out everything that had been building inside me. I knew Karina was carrying her own grief, too. She was mourning just like I was. Mikael had been her brother-inw, the younger brother of her husband, her Alpha, Jayden was just as broken as I was. Slowly, I began to find the strength to straighten my spine again. Karina didn''t let go, she just kept holding me, grounding me in a world that still felt so wrong without Mikael in it. "I can stay the night or how about you and the twinse stay at the manor?" she offered once I was able to sit up. I shook my head, wiping at my face. "No, thank you. I think the twins would rather stay here, Karina." She nodded, squeezing my hand. ¡°Alright. But please,e to me if anything happens. Anytime, okay?" "I''ll try," I said with a weak smile. After Karina left, I lingered in that room, breathing in the faint traces of Mikael''s presence, letting it fill every part of me. "Thank you for the happiness you gave me, Mikael.* Subscribed Chapter 138 Chapter 138 Gift and Refusal Chapter 138: Gift and Refusal Ruby''s POV "Excuse me, servant, who sent all of these?" The moment I stepped out of my room, I was greeted by a collection of gifts and flower bouquets in a variety of colors. My jaw dropped as I was flooded with all these presents, seemingly appearing out of nowhere. Every single one of them was something I loved. I touched the white petals of a lily, its scent instantly filling my with the sweet essence of its nectar. The servant bowed in greeting. "Good morning, Lady Torrance. I merely received all these gifts from a courier. When I asked about the sender''s identity, the courier said he didn''t know." "How strange," I murmured. My brows furrowed as I examined all the gift boxes. I had no idea who would willingly spend so much money to send all of this. And I only had a handful of people close to me. A feeling of unease crept over me. Was this some kind of joke? "Would you like me to dispose of them or perhaps store them in your room, mydy?" the servant asked suddenly. I nodded, still staring at the mountain of gifts. "Yes, please. Just move everything to my room. I''ll try to find out who the sender is. Thank you," I replied. "As you wish, mydy." The items were finally brought upstairs. Fortunately, the twins were still asleep. Otherwise, they would''ve sat on the floor all day tearing open the presents and refusing to go to school. That was thest thing I wanted. "Who could''ve sent them?" Momentster, a realization struck me. There was one person who might''ve sent all those gifts. My face went pale. No, that couldn''t be. Why would that person do such a thing? There was no connection between us anymore. Besides, I was still in mourning. Shaking off the thought, I began to think about how to start this Monday with the twins. Month after month passed, and my heart still ached. But it no longer consumed me the way it did in the early days of losing my mate. It''s been a year since Mikael left this world, and painfully life insisted on moving forward. The twins, Anna and Alice, started elementary schoolst month, and each morning felt like a quiet little victory when we managed to get out the door. I''m proud of them. They''re tougher than I imagined. Anna even no longer cries when visiting her father''s grave. "Mom, look! I tied my shoes by myself!" Anna announced this morning, grinning, her tongue sticking out from between her teeth with intense focus. "Really? That''s amazing, sweetheart." I squatted down and high-fived her, ignoring the lump that always forms in my throat when Mikael''s absence pulls at me during these little milestones. He should be here for this. Alice, who''s always calmer, tugged at the sleeve of my shirt. "I drew Dad in ss yesterday, mom." My eyes softened when I heard that. "Can I see it when you get home, sweetheart?" "Of course!" A smile spread across her little face as she slipped her tiny hand into mine. And then there''s Elias Torrance, now a six-month-old baby boy. He looks so much like his father. His pale blue eyes follow me around the room, as if he knows what I carry. mile He babbles and kicks when he sees his sisters,ughing as they make silly faces. Sometimes, I swear I see Mika on his face. I can already imagine what my little boy will be like when he grows up. He''s definitely going to be a miniature version of Mikael. After dropping the twins off at school, I took Elias for a walk around the city. The autumn air felt fresh, and the leaves were beginning to turn gold and red. I was adjusting to this new rushed mornings, school runs, bottles, and the silence Sessfully unlocked! in between. I was foldingundry when my phone rang. The contact name that appeared was Leonidas. A message popped up on the screen. "Ros, the caf¨¦ in the square. 2 PM today. Don''t argue. - Leo" i sighed a reductant sale hugging of my los saxnidas is one of the few people who can still get away with bossing m wound 14 once thought shont offing fed with him out of embarrassment. But it turns out Mikant was right Not rfing good has to be thrown gay just became something else hurts 1 nouers # 210 Curata, since sorting fras kids means I''m always fifteen minutes behind. Es was sound asleep in his evr when i pothed the cafe door open, me small of freshly Baker Bread and coffee enveloping me Lidas was drearly there, weing at me as though he owned the ce His friendly smile and sun-kissed, messy hair mara kim look punger than his rink Bets of the Sundranch Kingdom, an old friend of mine, and the person who refused to treat me like I was maria of ss since Mikael''s death. "Took you long enough he teased as I sat down. T have three kids, Lao, You''re lucky even made it Heughed, leaning back in his chair. Fair enough. I''m impressed, honestly You look alive" Doing my be A waiter brought over two drinks, I tilted my head when my drink was delivered. The man knew me well. The conversation fowed easily, it started with mine, describing life at home and the wolf children, thetest gossip among various races, and the ongoing recovery after the wat I sipped the caramel mhiato, savoring the sweetness and cream in my mouth. My eyes didn''t nce at the outside world through the caf¨¦''s ss panels, I was d Leonidas invited me to meet here. I hadn''t realized that this would be the small entertainment I needed, as Luna Karina had said. 1 heard you turned down the educational aid offered by the kingdom for the kids, he said, tilting his head. I nced at him from theer of my eye. I wasn''t expecting this topic. Of course, the man would report it to him, and again, he probably knew about this meeting "Yes, I turned it down." "Why?" He didn''t sound angry, more like irritated, "Ros, you could use the help." I couldn''t stop myself from snapping. 1 don''t want their money. Not if it''s from him." Leonidas sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Ros-" To interrupted, throwing him a sharp look. 1 won''t take anything rted to Killian. I don''t care if he sits on the throne or mines gold for the kingdom." He won''t affect my children''s future. Not after what he did and how he left so much for me to deal with. Besides, this isn''t his responsibility at all I continued, so angry as I remembered the day when that man sent his people to deliver that responsibility to me. Leonidas watched me for a moment. "Alright. I understand. I don''t agree because to me it''s an opportunity. But I understand our mindsets are different." I rolled my eyeszily. "You''re always eager to take advantage of every opportunity." "Bingo Silence stretched between us. Then, as I took a bite of my mocha, I caught the change in his expression. A smile spread across his face, usually hidden behind an apathetic mask. "With better news. You''ll never guess what happened." I stared at him tly. "You? In trouble again?" "Ha! Not this time. I''ve met my match." That took me by surprise for a moment. "Wait, seriously? Leonidas, that''s... wow. Who?" "His name is Sean." His smile softened into something calmer, brighter. "He''s a former healer. Smart, stubborn. He saved my life arctole my heart while doing it." "And yes, now he''s recing Beatrice. Head of the pce servants. Though I wish I could convince him to go back to his position so I wouldn''t have to keep going in and out of the pce. It''s exhausting!" he added, followed by an annoyed groan. I couldn''t stop myself from smiling. "I''m so happy for you, Leo. Really." He shrugged, though his eyes were sparkling. "I didn''t expect it. I thought maybe the bond would feel like thunder or lightning, or something bigger than me, you know?" "But it wasn''t. It feels like I can finally breathe again, like I''ve found something I didn''t even know I was missing," he mused, as if thinking of the man in his mind. My throat tightened, a bitter taste settling in my chest. I was envious of it in a way that acknowledged what I no longer had. Chapter 138 Gift and Refusal What Mikael had given me. I shouldn''t feel this way when my friend is telling me the happy story of his life with his mate. Leonidas seemed to read my thoughts. He stretched his hand across the table, his hand covering mine. "It doesn''t mean you''ve forgotten him, Ros. Or that you''re moving on as if he was just an illusion to you. It means you keep going. You let yourself feel something else when you''re ready." "I''m not sure I''ll ever be ready, Leo." He squeezed my hand gently. "And that''s okay. Just go with the flow like water. Trust me, water always has a purpose." We stayed like that for a while. Just two people remembering a man we both loved in different ways, and carrying pieces of him within us. Then, smoothly, the topic shifted to lighter things. Finally, Leonidas grinned again. ¡°So, think about letting me babysit your kids sometime. Sean is dying to meet those famous twins." I chuckled. "Brave man." "Stubborn, more like. But I think we''ll make it happen. Let him see how sweet your kids are." Augh escaped my lips as I took a bite of thest piece of bread. "Yeah, alright. I''ll arrange the schedule." ¿Ú Subscribed Chapter 139 Chapter 139. Chasing Her Mikael''s Letter Chapter 139: Chasing Her Mikael''s Letter Killian''s POV "How long are we going to rot in this ce?" Elysian''s question echoed my own thoughts, word for word. I had no quarrel with the three alphas seated before me. For once, they weren''t a migraine dressed as diplomats. Their arguments were sound, well-structured even. The problem wasn''t them. It was me. I couldn''t concentrate. Wearing the crown of the Lycan King sounded noble, untouchable, and stoic. That''s the mask I wore every single day. Today was no different. The alphas spoke of cross-border trade, silver tariffs, and fair margins. The world outside had moved forward, yet our hidden territories, those veiled by magic wards remained tethered to the past. This kingdom was no exception. The pounding in my skull worsened. I curled my fingers over the table''s edge, ying the part of theposed monarch. Their expressions were the same as thest time they stepped into this study. But my mind was nowhere near here. No matter how vast my domain, I couldn''t stop seeing her. Ruby. Or as she now preferred is Rosalyn. She haunted every corner of my thoughts, still drenched from that stormy day at Mikael''s funeral. I saw her swollen eyes as if even the heavens had wept with her. She screamed his name, wailed like her soul had been torn in half. It took several to restrain her. I wanted to go to her. To hold her. To be the one who grounded her pain. But I was no one. A royal pardon doesn''t erase what we were or weren''t. It doesn''t bridge the chasm between us. "...we''ll proceed with next quarter''s logistics," one of the alphas said, pausing for my nod. I gave it, mechanically. The meeting carried on with modern integration strategies and magic-border negotiations. I barely heard a word. Then one of them began, "Your Majesty, perhaps next time we could-" "Send notice to reschedule," I cut in, already rising to my feet. "This meeting is adjourned. My apologies." They bowed without question. Too dignified to pry. The moment the door clicked shut behind them, I exhaled, realizing I''d been holding that breath for far too long. "Finally, they''re gone!" Elysian, my inner wolf, shouted with such glee it almost made me chuckle. I reached for a cigar from its holder, slipping it between my lips. I drew in the smoke deep into my chest and let it out with my frustration. "Bored, weren''t you?" Elysian snorted inside my head. "Bored? Seriously? I felt like I was dying! We should''ve just gone to see Ruby." The name hit me like a needle to the heart. I tilted my head back, eyes tracing the ceiling above. "That''s a bad idea," I muttered. "And what exactly about it is a bad idea? Say it. Out loud." I let out a long, weary sigh. "Elysian, you know full well the situation has changed. We''re strangers now. And that''s my punishment for what I did." "Absolutely not! Have you forgotten the letter?" he snapped. My brows furrowed in confusion. For a moment, rity washed over me. I had nearly forgotten the letter Mil His final request, written for the four people he loved most. gave me. My eyes dropped to the drawer of my desk. My fists clenched. I pulled it open, rummaging through cluttered reports and polished pens until I found it buried beneathyers of bureaucracy. The envelope was worn, its edges frayed with time. And yet, Mikael''s handwriting was still sharp, still alive on the page. One word was scrawled on the front: Killian. Sessfully unlocked! I kind of forgave the impoliteness. After all, the scruciau y se passed into the afterlife. I pulled the envelope out gently, unfolding the letter with the same care one might use on brittle ss. I''d read it a hundred times. Maybe more. And still, every word cut like the first. The Letter: Chapter 139 Chasing Her Mkaefs Letter To Killian, I''ve never had a taste for pleasantries. But fate, it seems, has cursed me with Jayder''s insistence that I begin this letter as if I were capable of a gentle conversation. Forgive me, I''ve always preferred the weight of spoken words over ink and paper If you''re reading this, then you already know. We both understood this war might cost us everything. I''ve made peace with that. But there are things that must be done. Things only a man seeking rederetion would dare carry I know about your past with my wife. There''s no word vile enough to describe what felt when I learned what you date I didn''t care who you were. Not a title, not a legend. None of it mattered. Damn you for it. But debts must be paid. For every tear, wound, and sleepless, shattered night. This is the beginning of your payment. Watch over my wife. And the three children we raised together. Be present not as a king, or not even as the man she once loved. Be the kind of man who knows what it means to lose a part of his soul and still stand. Protect my children. Their blood is strong to be left to the mercy of this world. Even young as they are, I know they need more than might to survive what''sing. I can see the future already weighing on the twins without a father, that void could devour them. They like you. The twins. I suppose there''s no harm in that. You seem to care for them in your own quiet way Do you, tyrant? You know I loved Rosalyn with everything I had. But I also know part of her still beats for you. If the winds of fate return her to your side. Then don''t turn away. Love them as your own. And live the life I never could. - Mikael I shut my eyes. Let the letter fall gently onto the desk. The words had always done this to me-ripping something open deep inside and leaving it to bleed out, quietly and unseen. I had done what I could from the shadows. Gifts for the children; books, toys, art supplies. For Elias, a cradle carved by hand,ced with ancient runes meant to ease his sleep. I had offered tuition. Protection and the weight of a crown behind their name. Rosalyn refused it all. And I didn''t me her. I''d hate me too if I were her. Fortunately, the gifts remained in her home. Because she never knew who they were from. But God, how I wished it were more. More than just silent offerings left on doorsteps. I ached to see them receive those things. For just one moment, I imagined the twins tearing open the paper. Little Eliasughing at something he didn''t understand. And Rosalyn''s gaze softening just briefly when she saw the name on the card. That''s all I had left to give. The fragile idea that maybe, just maybe, she still thought of me. Even if all that remained of me in her mind was rage. I was drowning in thefort of that foolish fantasy when a knock shattered the silence. Leonidas entered without waiting. He was the only one who didn''t need permission. "You look like hell," he said, dropping into the chair across from me and tossing his boots up on the desk like he owned the ce. "You sleeping, or is this just professional-level brooding now?" "Did youe here to antagonize me, or-" "To tell you I saw her." That pulled me out of the fog entirely. Leonidas grinned, dropping his feet back to the ground. "Yeah. I saw her. Ran into her at a caf¨¦. We talked. A lot, actually. It was that easy, Killian.¡± There are times I want to dunk this creature straight into boiling water. I can hear the sarcasm in his voice. I''m tempted to kick him out, but maybe it''s worth asking about Rosalyn''s family. "How are the kids?" I asked evenly. "They''re alright. The twins are starting to smile again." Chapter 139 Chasing Her Mikael''s Letter Still, his answer left a strange heaviness in my chest. Leonidas leaned in, a different seriousness in his eyes now. "You keep circling around her like she''s fire, and you''re scared to get burned. But you have been burned, Killian. There''s nothing left to lose by stepping in." Hooked away. "She doesn''t want me anymore, Leonidas." Leonidas snorted. "She doesn''t know what she wants. She''s buried in grief. But you want to protect her, don''t you? Then start with the kids. You can''t be close to her if you''re a stranger to them." I gave him a side nce. "What exactly are you suggesting?" A smirk crept across his face. "Go to the twins'' school. Volunteer, visit or anything. I don''t care what it is. Just show up. If you want to build a bridge, start at the heart of it." I leaned back, thinking. The idea didn''t make much sense to my rational mind. And yet, it was the only one that felt remotely right. Mikael had wanted me involved in the twins'' lives. "You think she''ll allow it?" Leonidas tilted his head slightly, as if measuring something unseen. "She might not at first. But she''ll notice. She''ll see the effort that you''reing not as anyone else, just as Killian." I looked back at the letter, my eyesnding on the final line. I read it aloud, hearing Mikael''s voice in my mind. Take care of them as your own. "I don''t deserve them," I murmured grimly. Leonidas shrugged, resting his arms behind his head. "Deserving''s got nothing to do with it. But love? That''s a damn solid beginning." Subscribed Chapter 140 Chapter 140: Chasing Her Hope Killian''s POV Finally, I followed Leonidas'' advice. I had said it might be a foolish n, but seeing the twins again stirred something inside me, something that felt a lot like contentment. Or maybe happiness. I''d never felt this way when I looked at other children. I wore nothing more than a casual outfit with a ck coat-neutral enough to pases just another parent wandering around the elementary school grounds. I stayed in the shadows under a tree, quietly observing the kids as they scattered across the yard during recess. Anna and Alice were easy to spot. A pair of hyperactive twins chasing each other across the yground, theirughter slicing through the autumn wind. They looked like her, an uncanny blend of Ruby and their father. However, physically, they bore more of Ruby''s features. Including that same stubborn spark in their eyes. "You''ve got two miniature versions of yourself, Ruby," I muttered to myself. I had no intention of getting any closer. Just watching them from afar was enough. A quiet effort to make sure the twins were okay. A silent offering to Mikael, and to the part of Ruby I''d shattered; one that could never be whole again.. I hadn''t realized how deeply I''d slipped into my thoughts until I noticed one of the twins had spotted me. Alice turned toward me, freezing in her tracks. Her eyes narrowed slightly, and for a moment, I saw a flicker of recognition in her little face. Then, her smile widened as she pointed straight at me. I sighed in resignation and caught. Straightening my back, I raised a hand to wave at Alice. Momentster, Ana joined her. The energetic little one tilted her head in confusion, wondering why Alice appeared to be talking to herself. My gaze softened as Anna followed Alice''s line of sight. Her lips formed a tiny "o" and she waved back. Then Alice whispered something to Anna, and the next second, both ran straight toward me. "Uncle Killian!" I greeted them with a casual two-finger salute. "Yo, you little troublemakers." "We''re not troublemakers!" Alice pouted, crossing her arms. Anna stepped closer, tugging gently at the edge of my coat. Her wide eyes blinked innocently. "Why don''t youe visit our pack anymore, Uncle? Alice and I are still waiting to hear your dragon story!" she asked, full of excitement. Alice nudged her sister''s shoulder. "Uncle is a King. Of course he''s too busy to talk about a flying dragon." "Oh, right," Anna mumbled. The little girl''s head drooped, her lips jutting out in a visible pout. I was almost startled by how much Anna resembled Ruby whenever she sulked like this. Ruby might have changed physically over the years. But she was still herself. The old habits, the subtle bodynguage, they hadn''t gone anywhere. And clearly, they had been passed down to her children. I ced a gentle hand on Anna''s head, softly ruffling her hair with affection. "I''m sorry," I said, my voice low and careful. "Maybe I can try to find some time to y with you." The twins responded in perfect unison, "REALLY?!" Aliceunched herself at me, throwing her tiny arms around my waist. Anna followed close behind, copying her sister''s enthusiastic hug. They spoke over each other in turns, each demanding that I keep my promise. "We''ll be mad if you''re lying to us, Uncle!" I chuckled quietly. "I promise. I won''t let you down." We stayed there, wrapped in our little bubble of warmth, until Alice, the clever little thing broke the moment with one of her sharp observations. wine. "Mom was super surprised. At first, we "Our house is full of gifts," she said matter-of-flow how perched on thought it was for Christmas. But that didn''t m Sessfully unlocked! Anna nodded beside her. "So we got curious and decided to investigate." "And then we interrogated Uncle Leonidas!" Alice added triumphantly. "Uncle Leo?" I raised an eyebrow. Der. Right, Anna?" Chapter 140 Chasing Her-Hope "Yup!" My brow furrowed deeply. I had no idea when Leonidas had dropped by, let alone visited Ruby''s house A few days ago, he did mention bumping into her at a caf¨¦, but he never said anything about the twins being there "So what did Uncle Leo say, little troublemakers?" I asked, turning toward one of them. "He said you''re the one who sent all the presents!" Alice announced, arms folded with confidence "Oh! And you''re also the one who sent Mom the flowers!" Anna chimed in brightly I blinked slowly. That damn bastard, Leonidas and his big mouth. If Ruby ever found out, those gifts would vanish from the face of the earth. They wouldn''tst another day in that house. I wanted to lie to them. But the innocent light in their eyes, the way they seemed genuinely happy knowing I was the one who''d sent the gifts, made it impossible to deceive them. "Yes. They''re all from me," I admitted atst." "And the cradle for Elias. Was that you, too?" Alice asked. "Yes, sweetheart." Anna followed with a slightly suspicious look in her eyes. "Why? I mean, I do love all the gifts, but... "Dad says we should be careful when someone gives us too much kindness, Alice interrupted softly. "So we''re still a little scared, Uncle... because of what Dad used to say about you." ''How smart they are, I almost thought fondly. "Your father gave you good advice," I said, gently. Then I slowly knelt down in front of the girls, so we were eye to eye. "But trust me when I say this my intentions are sincere. I knew your father. I made a promise to him... to take care of you both. That includes giving you small bits of happiness whenever I can, for you, and your baby brother, I continued. Alice and Anna exchanged nces, as if holding a silent conversation. Just then, I felt the presence of someone approaching. A woman, likely a teacher, walked toward us, her expression clouded with suspicion and her gaze sharp. "Excuse me, sir. May I ask what business you have here at the school?" she asked with a stern tone. I offered her a polite, practiced smile. ¡°Oh, I''m just here to visit the twins. I''m a close friend and former colleague of Mikael Torrance." "Are these Miss Alice and Miss Anna?" she asked. The twins quickly confirmed with synchronized nods. Still, the teacher didn''t lower her guard. She stepped in closer. "In the future, please report to the school office and sign the guest log before meeting with students. May I have your name?" "My apologies, miss. That was entirely my oversight," I said as I stood up. "My name is Killian Rudiwick. May I have permission to speak with the children, if that''s allowed?" The teacher nced between me and the girls. Only the twins'' puppy-like pleading eyes seemed to sway her. "Fifteen minutes," she said firmly. "And you are to remain on school grounds." I thanked the teacher, then gently led the twins to sit on a bench beneath the tree. I leaned back against the trunk, unsure of how to position myself between them. But Alice didn''t give me much time to overthink it¡ªshe tugged on my hand and insisted I sit across from them at the small pic table. "I''m d you came to see us," Anna said softly. "We''ve been really sad these past few months." Alice nodded in agreement. "I feel the same way." Then, without hesitation, she asked, "Did you cry when our dad died?" Every instinct screamed at me to say no. But I wasn''t about to lie to them- especially not if it meant hur more. "I did," I replied quietly. Their gazes dropped to theirps. After a moment of silence, Alice-the quieter of the two-spoke again. "Sometimes... Mom cries at night. She thinks we don''t hear her. But we do." Anna added quickly, "She doesn''t eat much either. She forgets. We remind her, but she still forgets." "We know she''s pretending to be strong in front of us," Alice said, fiddling with the hem of her uniform. iem even Chapter 140 Chasing Her Hope Once again, Mikael''s daughters caught me off guard. Children, I realized, often notice more than adults give them credit for Even I had underestimated just how sharp and observant young minds could be Alice''s lips trembled. "She works so hard. She does everything. And we try to help. However, we''re just not big enough " My heart cracked at the sight of tears rolling down their cheeks. Their small hands gripped each other fightly Without thinking, I reached across the table and did what I could wiping away their fears with the sleeve of my cost and trying tofort them with touch and presence. "It''s okay, little pumpkin. If you want to cry, go ahead. I''m here," I said softly I''d faced warlords and monsters in my life. But this felt just as hard as any battlefield "I''m sorry." I whispered atst, cing both hands gently on their shoulders. "Your mom is strong She''s doing everything she can because she loves you. That''s who she is." "But she''s all alone, and that''s not fair," Alice whispered. She looked up at me, her eyes puffy and red. "Can''t you help her?" I opened my mouth, then closed it again. I didn''t know how to answer honestly. So instead, I said, "I''m trying." The bell rang, echoing through the air. The teacher had arrived to gather them. I stood there, watching as they ran back, ncing at me over their shoulders and waving. Smiles still lingered on their faces, even though their eyes were still slightly swollen. My feelings were a whirlwind as I watched them disappear from sight. I forced my legs to move away from the building, already halfway to the gate when I felt it. The scent hit me before the sound of her footsteps did. I turned to find the reincarnation of Ruby standing near the school''s stone archway, arms crossed and eyes zing with fury. "You''ve been watching them?" she snapped. "I didn''t talk to them until they approached me, Rub-I mean, Rosalyn," I replied in the ttest tone I could manage. "I don''t care who started it," she barked. "You shouldn''t be hanging around them." I met her gaze, letting the anger roll over me. "I just needed to see them. Nothing weird. You can ask them yourself." ¡°No. You just needed to feel better about yourself," she fumed, stepping closer. "I appreciate your kindness in treating the twins well, but that doesn''t give you the right to be near them. Please, stay away." "Rosalyn. I don''t mean any harm¡ª" "What do you want, Killian?" she growled through clenched teeth, the sorrow and rage shing in her eyes. "We''ve chosen different lives." "I want to keep the promise I made to Mikael." "Don''t bring him into this!" "I have to. He''s the reason I''m here," I reached into my coat and pulled out the letter, carefully folded."He wrote me before he died. You need to read it." She looked at the letter like it might bite her. "You''re just trying to find a way back in again." "No," I denied, half-lying. "I''m trying to do one thing right." A long silence stretched between us. Then, finally, she took the letter. "I''ll read it." Her voice had softened slightly, tired now. "If you want to exin, meet me tomorrow at one. The caf¨¦ in the capital square." I nodded, a flicker of hope rising in my chest. "I''ll be there." "And until then," she added, her voice hardening again, "you stay away from my house. You stay away from my children. Do you understand?" "As you wish, Rosalyn." Her eyes held mine for a moment, full of a dozen unsaid things. Then she turned and walked away, the wind catching the edge of her coat. It seems like Leonidas''s n was working, though not quite as I had expected. Could this be the beginning of something new? Chapter 141 Chapter 141: Chasing Her A Piece of My Love Chapter 141: Chasing Her A Piece of My Love Ruby''s POV A sharp pain struck my head. I never imagined that man would dare toe and see the twins. I didn''t like the implications of his presence. He had no business interfering with my new life, Whatever was between us was over. I leaned my forehead against the steering wheel, eyes closed, trying to push away any lingering memories of him. Enough thinking about him. The twins couldn''t see me in a bad mood. I checked my phone and sighed. Still plenty of time left. I could finish that workter tonight. A few minutester, the final school bell rang in the distance, my signal that my little girls would be in my arms again within moments. I stood outside the school gates, hands tucked into my coat pockets, pretending I wasn''t still trembling from facing Killian earlier. When the doors opened and the twins emerged with the crowd, every noise in my head fell silent. "Alice,e on! There''s Mommy!" Anna called out. "Hi, Mom!" Alice chimed in. They waved at a few ssmates, their tiny hands fluttering under the afternoon sun, then ran straight toward me. I crouched down and caught them both at once, one in each arm, burying my face between their warm little necks. They smelled like crayons and sunshine and a kind of happiness I''d feared I''d never feel again. "Did you girls have a good day?" I asked, kissing their foreheads. Anna nodded. "I got a star sticker during reading time!" "And I shared my apple slices!" Alice added proudly. "That''s wonderful," I said with a tender smile. "You''re both amazing." They beamed. For a moment, I thought about using this free time for something just for the twins. It had been so long since I''d taken them out for fun. Thest time was when I was still with Mikael. "Want to go on a little adventure?" I asked, standing up and brushing off my knees. Their eyes lit up and they shouted in unison, "Where to?" "You''ll see." I guided them both to the car and buckled their seatbelts. Anna and Alice couldn''t stop eximing how this was the best day ever. If only Mikael were here. He would have loved spoiling his daughters. We ended up at a mall; a small one in the heart of the city. I took them for ice cream first; two scoops, of course, because who says sorrow and joy can''t share the same table? Alice chose strawberry swirl. Anna picked mint chocte chip, even though she always forgets halfway through that she doesn''t like "green food." I watched them from across the table as they licked their cones, giggling between bites, smearing pink and green across their cheeks. My heart felt full. They are my reason to keep going. My strength when I smile through the pain,ugh through the emptiness, and feel moved when I''m on the verge of fainting. After the ice cream, we walked around. I let them each pick out a small toy- something simple and sweet. A plush fox for Anna, a sparkly unicorn keychain for Alice. They walked side by side next to me, chatting about anything and everything. "Mommy, we saw Uncle Killian at school," Alice suddenly blurted out. Anna hugged her plush fox and nodded. "He came to our school!" Anna chimed in. I tensed the moment I heard that man''s namee from my daughters'' lips. I forced a smile and tried to act as though nothing was wrong. "Really? What did you talk about?" I asked, squeezing Alice''s little hand. "So many things!" Anna held onto the tip of my finger and gave me a mischievous grin. "And we have a secret. Right, Alice?" "Right! A secret that we''re going to hear another dragon story!" "Alice! You weren''t supposed to tell!" she scolded. Alice quickly covered her mouth with one hand. "Oops!" Chapter 141: Chasing Her - A Piece of My Love "All right, all right. Mommy will pretend she didn''t hear that." I shook my head, chuckling at my daughters'' antics. My hands took turns ruffling their hair as I gently led them back to the car. By the time we got home, the sun was already beginning to set. Golden light spilled through the windows as I opened the door. Inside, Luna Karina was sitting on the couch with Elias perched on her hip. He squealed when he saw us, his little legs kicking wildly. "Luna Karina? Sorry, I didn''t know you were stopping by." Karina rolled her eyes. "Please, Rosalyn, our houses are just steps apart. Rx" I gave her a crooked smile and walked over. "Looks like someone missed you," Karina said with a grin. The twins rushed forward, cooing and patting Elias''s chubby hands. His nanny stood nearby, effortlessly gathering his things. I stepped inside and set my bag by the door. "Thanks for watching him, Karina.¡± "No problem,¡± she said, then narrowed her eyes at me. "You look tense. Something wrong?" I forced a smile. "No, just a long day. The usual chaos." She didn''t buy it, but she didn''t push either. A message pinged on her phone. "Gamma''s calling me back to the estate." I nodded. "Take care of yourself." She kissed Elias on the cheek, then the twins, and left with concern quietly hanging on her shoulders. I pretended not to notice. I didn''t need that kind of attention. I was still strong. After dinner, I bathed the twins, braided their hair, and read them their favorite bedtime story. A tale about a wolf princess who saved her vige by listening to the moon. Elias nursed and drifted to sleep in the cradle of my arms. I did everything I was supposed to do. All the things Mikael and I used to do-together. But when the house finally went quiet, I found myself standing in my bedroom with that damned letter in my hand. The letter Killian had given me. Addressed to me, my name written clearly across the front of the envelope. It made me angry. Why had Mikael left this with Killian instead of his own brother? I sat down on the ed Mikael''s Letter: My Dearest Rosalyn, If you''re reading thi the bed and opened it, my hands trembling. it means I didn''t make it back. Truly, you were always home to me. I swear, I always wanted to return to you- wherever you were. Every part of me longed toe back to you, our children, and the life we built together. But if I couldn''t then I had to leave this behind. I want you to know: I love you. From the very first moment we met, through every storm. Even when you were still trying to forget someone else''s name. You are the best thing that ever happened to me. You gave me everything-your love, your trust, our children. And I die full of gratitude for it. But now I have on hing to ask of you. Don''t do this alone. You don''t have to. If Killian finds his way back to you, don''t shut the door just to protect my memory. I trust him. I asked him to look after you. Because if there''s anyone else in this world I''d trust with your heart besides myself-it''s him. And you deserve to love again. Live, Ros. Not just for the kids. But for you. And maybe, one day for someone else too. Forever yours, Mikael I didn''t realize I had been drowning in tears until the paper crumpled in my grasp, wet and trembling. The pain tore through my heart once more. I fought the urge to scream, wing at my chest in hopes that my soul wouldn''t shatterpletely that I could just follow him. Chapter 141 Chasing Her A Piece of My Love I jolted at the sound of Anna''s voice. I quickly wiped away my fears as best I could. The twine stood sleepily in the doorway so small in their pajamas. Alice was the first to run over, climbing into myp "Why are you sad?" Anna followed, wrapping her arms around my waist. "Is it about Dad again?" "Oh, the usual. I just miss him," I said with augh between sobs "You know your dad, he used to y little pranks on the sometimes" They bothughed, even though I knew they were doing exactly what I was holding onto the beautiful memories, and learning to live with the fact that the one we loved was gone. "Someone told us it''s okay to cry, Alice murmured softly. "So, it''s okay if you''re sad in front of us, Mom." That broke the dam. I pulled them into a tight embrace, holding on as the weight pressed harder against my shoulders. And I reminded myself that I was lucky to still have them; pieces of Mikael and me that are still alive in this world I''m not alone, no matter what the voices in my head try to whisper. 0 Likes Subscribed Chapter 142 Chapter 142: Chasing Her - A Greedy Tyrant Chapter 142: Chasing Her - A Greedy Tyrant Killian''s POV "Your Majesty, it''s time." Sean stood not far from me, holding a ss of water in one hand and a small silver vial of medicine in the other. His tone was gentle, but I could already hear the judgmentced beneath it. I didn''t move from the window. Sometimes, Sean could be far sterner than Beatrice. I appreciated that kind of concern, but I never quite geused to being cared for. I only lived for myself, without anyone else. Although Leonidas had managed to break through, bing the only one I allowed to step deeper into my personal life. Thest, by a woman I still love to this day. Sean might be another. But! couldn''t stand it when care came in the form of a mother bear. "I''ll take itter," I said, watching the clouds shift above the mountains in the distance. "I have somewhere to be." Sean sighed. "And your appointment with Dr. Lira?" "Postpone it." "You''ve already postponed it twice this month." "I don''t care." He set the ss and the vial down a bit forcefully. "Killian-" I turned around, throwing him a sharp look. "Careful, boy." Sean waspletely unfazed by my harshness. He straightened his back and stepped closer to me. "Apologies, Your Majesty. But Leonidas and I are done with this dance," he said, grounding himself. "You say you want to heal, but all you do is brood, push people away, and ignore everyone who''s trying to help." "I don''t have time for a therapy lecture." "You''ve had time to stare at the wall for the past three hours, but not enough to stop yourself from spiraling again?" he shot back. I clenched my jaw. "I have something more important today." "And what, exactly, is more important than not falling into another episode of insomnia and regret?" "Rosalyn." That gave him pause. Sean crossed his arms, his eyes scanning me like he was assessing a threat. "So, what is this about?" "I want to see herter. Things that need to be resolved," I replied, snuffing out the tip of my cigar in the ashtray. "Can''t it wait just one day? You could reschedule with her, right? She''d understand, Your Majesty," he said, half-weary. "No. The sooner I do it, the better," I snapped. Sean didn''t move, cing the meds on the nightstand. ¡°I don''t need to understand to see that you look like hell, haven''t eaten since yesterday, and you''re lying to every doctor who walks into this room." "But you''re going to see another man''s former mate. How could that possibly be good for your emotional stability?" he added, more sharply. Sometimes I needed something to hit me in the head to wake up. But that didn''t mean I wasn''t stubborn. I understood Sean meant well and wanted me to heal faster. It''s just that, in my eyes right now, it didn''t feel that way. What I wanted- ''what I needed-was to see Rosalyn as soon as possible. I stepped closer, jaw clenched. "You''re forgetting yourself, Sean." "And you''re forgetting that I''m not just your servant. I''m your friend. Whether you like it or not." A sudden knock interrupted us. Leonidas leaned against the doorframe, grinning like he''d been listening the whole time. "Do you two always have this much fun before noon?" he teased. Sean turned, his face briefly softening when he saw his mate. "He''s impossible. Please tell your king to stop acting like a tantrum-throwing child." Sessfully unlocked! Leonidas let out a boomingugh. He threw up in anus sueuer, acknowledging that he''d be ignored just as thoroughly as Sean. ¡°So, business as usual," Leonidas said as he walked in. "Sean, darling, why not let the king destroy himself in peace just this once?" Chapter 142 Chasing Her A Greedy Tyrant Sean red at him, clearly ready to kick him out. Leonidas, unfazed by his mate''s seething stare, slid an arm around his waist and whispered something that made Sean''s expression shift-half annoyed, half resigned. "You can''t charm your way out of every argument," Sean muttered. "True," Leonidas said with a wink. "But I can seduce you into giving me a ten- minute break." Sean rolled his eyes and handed over the ss with a sulk. He nced at me, muttering something about a pair of annoying idiot cousins and a slew of other frustrated grumbles. "Alright. But if I hear you skip your meds again, Your Majesty, I''ll personally lock youth our infirmary," he threatened. I sighed, knowing there would be no more excuses left to toss the medicine out the window. After downing it in one gulp, I quickly reached for my coat. "Then I''m off. Don''t destroy my pce with all your antics, Leonidas," I warned. Leonidas burst into roaringughter at the hidden meaning in my words, while Sean turned as red as a ripe Fuji apple. Leonidas pressed a kiss to Sean''s cheek and yelled at me to get going already. The portal glowed with a bluish hue. It had been a long time since Ist used it. Just looking at it reminded me of her. She was the one who gave me permission to take it, to use it however I liked. It was one of the best memories I had of her-of us-back when we first met. Shaking the thought from my head, I stepped in, leaving thefort of my room behind. The caf¨¦ was nearly empty when I arrived. The atmosphere was quieter than usual, despite the day already moving past morning. I chose the farthest table with a view of the fountain outside. My fingers tapped restlessly on the table as I waited for the other guest to arrive. I barely noticed the waiter asking for my order. I waspletely caught in a wave of anxious anticipation. This was the first time we''d meet properly, outside of everything that had happened. This was what I had been waiting for. The oue might have disappointed me, but at least half of my hope hade true. I had never stopped waiting for her to reincarnate into this world. In fact, time no longer held meaning for me. When Rosalyn walked in, it felt like I was taking my first breath after drowning for so long. She looked so exhausted that it made me anxious. I wanted nothing more than to wrap her in a hug. Her eyelids hung low with a weary gaze, and her shoulders were tenser than I remembered. She wore an ivory-white coat, her hair left down to brush her back, and those hazel eyes that still held a flicker of life. My heart ached seeing her like this. She must''ve read the letter Mikael sent her. "Sorry to keep you waiting," she said. I was taken aback by that first greeting. She sat across from me without saying another word. "It''s totally fine. I just got here early, it doesn''t mean you werete," I replied simply. The caf¨¦ server came by with the espresso I had ordered, and Rosalyn ordered hers afterward. Steam rose from the coffee into the air. I had lost all interest in touching my espresso now that she was here. Slowly, we looked at each other. "I didn''t bring the kids," she said atst, her voice tight. "I know. Thank you foring." I gave her a small smile. I hoped it didn''t scare her like it once had, back when I visited her pack. Then, Ruby ced the letter between us. Her expression was no longer as harsh as I remembered. "I''ve read it." I nodded, ncing at the letter. "I''m d you were willing to. He gave it to me through my people. I''m sorry it took this long to deliver. Mikael warned me not to give it to you during the one-year mourning period." Ruby tensed. She swallowed hard, then shook her head. A dry chuckle escaped her lips as she muttered a few annoyed words about her mate. She looked like she had truly loved him. A sharp pang pierced my chest. "I really don''t understand how my mate thinks," Ruby said, pinching the bridge of her nose. "Of course, he always cared more about my feelings than I ever could for myself." She offered a faint smile to the server who arrived with her drink. "I''m sorry for my rudeness yesterday. It must be a heavy burden to take responsibility from someone who didn''t like you," she remarked. The corner of my lips lifted, amused. "His dislike for me was never meant to harm. And you don''t owe me an apology." Ruby''s gaze held mine for a moment. I caught a glimpse of her eyes, no longer that deep ocean blue, shimmering with something nostalgic. I let her look. Despite the tension in the air, I was cherishing this moment together. I missed her so 144 -huninally hurt. Chapter 142 Chasing Her-A Greedy Tyrant "I hated you at first. But it didn''tst long," she admitted suddenly. I stared down at the dark surface of the espresso in my hand. "You had every right to, even until the end of time, Ruby." "I have my reasons why not, Killian." I nearly flinched in surprise when Ruby spoke my first name. Something I hadn''t heard from her in so long. It felt like a piece of my old home had weed me back. "I got the truth from Leonidas. I grieve for what happened to you," she said, calmer now. "Then, ording to the letter I read, Mikael didn''t want any of this. Because holding on to hatred only brings more pain I didn''t know what to say. Her words cut deeper than any sword. It was heartbreaking to recall the reason we were torn apart-my unforgivable mistake. "I''m not here to reopen anything," I said, my mouth suddenly dry and bitter. "I know what I destroyed. I know what I''ve lost. But Mikael asked me to protect you... and the children." ¡°And I mean what I''m doing,¡± I continued. ¡°Not out of duty or any sense of honor, Ruby." Ruby looked at me for a long moment. "And after that?" "What?" "After the debt is repaid. Then what? You''re not going to guard us forever, Killian.¡± "I''m not thinking that far ahead. All I want is for you to be safe in every way. Especially the children." She exhaled. "I don''t want anything from you. Not your money, power, or protection. I can still handle those things on my own. But if you truly meant what you said to the girls and the youngest, then I''ll allow it. You can try." Hope red in my chest, only to be dimmed by her final words, crushing any imagined future I dared to dream. "For Mikael," she added. I nodded with a neutral expression. Of course. That was the only reason. I had already prepared myself for the worst. At the very least, I should be grateful- because it meant she was still willing to let me try. Even if there was no room left for me in her heart. "I''ll take whatever you''re willing to give," I said quietly. "Even if it''s just a few conversations. I''ll treasure every second of them." "Don''te near my house without asking. Don''t overstep your boundaries. And never lie to my children." "I won''t," I replied firmly. She stood after taking thest sip of her drink. "One more thing. There''s no need to talk about the past. That part is over, Killian.¡± For a moment, we locked eyes as she slung her bag over her shoulder. The old pain stirred between us like ashes from a fire that had never truly gone out. "I have to go. See you around." I nodded again, unable to trust my voice. She gently touched the table where the letter had rested, then picked it up and slipped it back into her bag. "Take care of your sanity, Killian.¡± And then she was gone, disappearing from my view. I remained seated,pletely still. The space across from me felt as if it still held her shape... and her voice. For the first time in years, I had a purpose that wasn''t soaked in regret. But was it ever enough for a greedy tyrant like me? Subscribed Chapter 143 Chapter 143: Chasing Her - The Start of Healing Chapter 143: Chasing Her The Start of Healing Killian''s POV "Excuse me, sir, may I ask if you would like to order anything else?" I looked up at the waiter. "Yes, an espresso. Double shot." "I''ll write that down. However, if I may suggest, it would be better to choose a lighter drink for the sake of your stomach, sin the waiter advised gently. I could barely think amidst everything that had happened. I rubbed my face and nced at the menu again, but found nothing that appealed to me. "Just rmend something for me. I''ll order whatever it is," I said emptily.. The waiter hesitated for a moment, seeming unsure about my request. After a few seconds, he clicked his pen and wrote it down. "Very well, I''ll bring it to you shortly. Have a pleasant day, sir." He smiled warmly before returning to his station to inform the kitchen of the new order. I slumped into my chair, the tension that had been gripping my back easing slightly. The caf¨¦ felt unusually silent, even though it was filled with customers. I decided to stay here, lingering in my memories of meeting her. Ruby''s coffee cup had already been cleared away by the waiter, its steam having long dissipated. The chair she had sat on still seemed to bear the weight of her presence. My mind kept circling around her words: "for Mikael." It felt so wrong to be disappointed. Of course Ruby would say that. The man was her husband, her mate in this lifetime; someone she loved deeply. I had my chance once, but I was the one who threw it away. Resting my head in my hands, I barely heard the bell above the door chime again. "I knew I''d find you here." Leonidas'' voice sounded as casual as if we were just two old friends spending time together. I turned my attention to him reluctantly. I wasn''t in the mood to face anyone right now. "Aren''t you supposed to be at the kingdom, Beta?" "I was. But I missed your brooding face, and I figured I''d make good use of my free time," he said as he slid into the seat Rosalyn had just vacated. "Judging by the new tea in front of you, I''m guessing it was a heavy conversation," he mused. "Not exactly sunshine and roses," I replied. He nodded, his gaze steady on me. "But she came, didn''t she?" "She came." "And?" "She gave me permission to try. That''s all." Leonidas tilted his head. "Really? No other discussions?" "I didn''t want to draw it out. At least she gave me permission to approach her as someone Mikael trusts," I replied, lifting the tea to my lips. The one-eyed Beta grimaced. "I''d say that''s her generosity towards you." "Who could me her for acting that way, Leonidas?" The taste of the tea wasn''t nearly enough to neutralize the bitterness in my mouth. Nor was its warmth enough. It faded too quickly, never reaching the coldest parts within me. "Allow me to ask is your intention still the same?" Leonidas asked, confused. I stayed silent for a long moment. "I still have the desire to make her nine But I will step back if she firmly closes off her heart." Sessfully unlocked! "You said Mikael mentioned in his letter that Ruby still held some feelings for you, didn''t he?" "Yes." "Then use that grow it into something bigger," Leonidas suggested, thanking the waiter who had just delivered his order. Chapter 143 Chasing Her-The Start of Healing I raked my hand through my hair in frustration. "I''m not sure, Leonidas. Besides, you yourself said Ruby and Rosalyn are now two different people." "They are. It all depends on you whether you''ll love Ruby, or Rosalyn." "I feel that no matter her form or her soul, I would still love her, I admitted inly. "Even though she has three children?" I nced sideways at Leonidas. "I don''t see anything wrong with her being a mother of three." Silence settled between us for a while. Outside, a gentle breeze stirred the fountains waters. Leaves in the square danced lightly, as if trying to recall the rhythm of autumn. The scent of dampness and dry leaves floated on the wind. "You can''t keep punishing yourself for what happened, Leonidas said suddenly. "She never asked you to." "You''re right about that," I muttered. "But I do it because I can''t live with who I used to be." "And who are you now?" That question immediately sealed my lips. I had no answer for it. The only thing I truly wanted was to atone for my sins and make Rosalyn happy, whether or not she was with me. Although a darker part of me constantly whispered, urging me to be greedy, to exploit every ounce of Rosalyn''s sorrow for my own gain. "You need to think about your own happiness, too, Killian," Leonidas said. He leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms. "You''re not Mikael. You''re not supposed to rece him. You''re supposed to carry what he entrusted to you and move forward without expecting anything in return. That''s what you''re doing now. It''s the only way forward." He was right, but it still hurt. No path didn''t hurt. Leonidas nced at his watch, then stood up. "Alright, I''m heading out." I frowned. This bastard showed up like a storm, and now he was leaving just as abruptly. "Where to?" "Jewelry store," he said simply. My eyebrows shot up skeptically. "New hobby? Collecting jewelry now?" Leonidas snorted. "Of course not. Why would you jump to such a weird conclusion?" "Then there''s a master cksmith at the kingdom-" "I know,¡± he interrupted, a grin tugging at his lips. "But I spotted a gem. Green, very rare. It reminded me of Sean''s eyes when he''s mad at me often." The words flowed into my mind. A realization hit me hard as the meaning behind Leonidas'' errand became clear. My jaw dropped slightly, and I shook my head in disbelief. I could hardly believe what I was hearing. "You''re going to propose to him?" I asked, my voice pitching higher than I intended. It was hard to believe that this guy with his reputation for breaking the hearts of both women and men would get so serious about his mate. Leonidas pulled a face, clearly annoyed. "What, you think I would toy with my mate''s heart?" "I''m going to make the ring first. Then I''ll propose once I''m sure he won''t kill me for keeping it secret all this time," he continued proudly. I almost smiled at the genuine happiness and sincerity in his voice. The kid was serious, it seemed. It was only right that among us, at least someone found a life worth living. Even if it wasn''t me, Leonidas deserved his happy ending. "He''ll say yes,¡± I said. Leonidas paused for a second. "You really think so?" "Anyone who''s survived you this long deserves either hazard pay or a diamond." Heughed, and for a brief moment, the weight on my shoulders felt a little lighter. Then he pped me on the shoulder once. "Do what you need to do, Killian. Just... don''t lie to yourself in the process." "Thanks for the mini lecture, future groom." *** The therapist''s office was too warm, the kind of clinical heat that made your skin itch. Dr. Lira sat across from me, her hands neatly folded over a notebook she rarely opened. I had seen three different professionals before her. They had all Chapter 143: Chasing Her The Start of Healing quit because of me. But she hadn''t. Sean had made sure I didn''t bolt. Sometimes, I wondered who the real king was me or him, I thought irritably. "So, you finally saw him chatting with that woman," she assessed with an analytical tone. "Yeah." "And?" "At least he didn''t m the door in my face." "That''s progress." I rubbed the bridge of my nose. "Progress feels a lot like sorrow." She studied me quietly. "Because you''re hoping for something that might never happen?" "You guessed correctly, doctor. Though the darker part of me still wants to drag him back, just to have him near me again," I admitted honestly, disgusted with myself. Dr. Lira tilted her head slightly. "I see that. You''re still trying." "I won''t deny it." The psychiatrist scribbled a few notes on her clipboard. "You can''t rewrite the past. But you can stop reliving it every time someone mentions his name." "He is my past," I said bitterly. "I know that," she replied softly. "What I''m trying to say is you need to learn to let go, my lord." Her voice softened as she offered the advice. Before I could answ my phone buzzed on the table. I quickly grabbed it to check the screen and saw Leonidas'' name shing. I answered immediately. "What''s wrong?" "Oh, thank the gods you picked up right away. Elias, the little one, has a fever. They''ve already called for the healer, and the examination is underway. I thought you''d want to know." My heart thudded painfully at the news. I was still curious how he had found out so quickly, but that was a question forter. "I''m on my way," I said, already getting to my feet. "Use the portal. I''ll send you the coordinates," Leonidas instructed firmly. I nced at Dr. Lira, then ended the call. "Can we continue this another time?" "Of course, Your Grace. Pleasee back for another consultationter this week," she requested kindly. "Noted." I didn''t think about anything else as I hurried out of the room. When I stepped through the portal, I could feel the tension hanging thick in the air. The Pack Infirmary was filled with the sounds of crying infants and murmuring adults. Yet I couldn''t detect Leonidas'' voice among them. Rosalyn was in the foyer, cradling Elias tightly against her chest. The child whimpered weakly against her. Her eyes were red and streaked with tears, and her scent was a swirling mixture of fear and exhaustion. As I stepped further inside, Rosalyn, along with the rest of the Torrance family, turned and stared at me in surprise. "Killian?" Subscribed 0 Likes Chapter 144 Chapter 144 Chasing Her-Touch Your Heart Chapter 144: Chasing Her Touch Your Heart Killian''s POV "I didn''t expect you to visit, Killian." Jayden stepped forward toward me, a slightly confused look on his face. It had been a long time since Ist saw him, and yet, the grief still lingered in his heart. It was evident in his expression as he remembered his one and only younger brother. I considered being honest. After all, in this situation, there would be more losses than gains otherwise. "Leonidas said the youngest of the twins is sick. So, I thought I''de," I said. Jayden frowned briefly. "I see. Well, as you can see, my nephew is indeed ill. "Besides that, I''d like to talk to youter. It''s quite important." Our eyes met for a moment, and Jayden, as if understanding, gave a nod and a pat on my shoulder. "I''ll make time for us to talkter, he replied. My attention shifted to Elias, who was whimpering in Rosalyn''s arms. The little creature was burning with fever, fragile in a way that shattered something deep within me. I had faced wars, rebellions, assassins. Nothing had ever made me feel as powerless as watching this small child struggle against a fever his tiny body was too weak to fight on its own. Rosalyn was pacing back and forth, whispering to him, gently rocking him, trying to soothe him. Her face was pale, drawn tight with worry. Her hands trembled even as she kept moving. I couldn''t just stand there. "I''ve summoned a physician from Sundrench. They should arrive within a few minutes," I told her. Rosalyn paused, giving me a measuring look. For a moment, there was a flicker of wariness in her eyes. "Thank you." Jayden also voiced his thanks, as did his wife. A few momentster, the couple excused themselves, citing an urgent matter. Leaving just the two of us in the house. Rosalyn sat on the living room sofa, cradling Elias against her chest. His cheeks were flushed, his breath shallow. Rosalyn adjusted him carefully, murmuring to him as if offering up a prayer. I crouched down near them. "Is there anything I can do?" She looked at me hesitantly, biting her lip. Then, with a small sigh, she shifted Elias slightly and looked at me. "Here. Hold him." I froze. "Me? You want me to hold a baby?" "Yes, you, she said, rolling her eyes and almost smiling. "Unless you think a tyrant king can''t handle a six-month-old." I red at her. I could detect the faint insult and teasing hidden in her voice. Even so, despite my annoyance, I couldn''t shake off the fear of holding something so small. What if I dropped him? Rosalyn carefully guided my hands. "Support his neck and back. Like this. Be gentle, but firm, Killian." Her hands were so warm against mine that it hurt, in a way, to crave a kind of warmth I had long been deprived of from her. I forced myself to suppress the yearning and focus instead on adjusting my arms until Elias was resting against my chest, cradled in a way that felt impossibly tender. His weight was so light in my arms. He blinked up at me, his eyes ssy but curious, a tiny fist clenching the fabric of my shirt. "Don''t be so stiff, Rosalyn said with a softugh. "He won''t break if you breathe." I adjusted myself, trying to mimic the easy, instinctive way she moved. Elias leaned a little into me, letting out a small, restless sound. "Y-you can''t me me. It''s my first time doing this, I muttered. I cursed myself the moment I realized I had stuttered. How utterly humiliating. Rosalyn looked like she was trying not tough again, and I could feel the back of my neck heating up. "Anyone could tell it''s not a bad thing shemented lightly. "His body temperature is pretty high. How long has he been like this?" I asked, my voice low. She leaned closer, checking his forehead again. "Just since this morning. I was really surprisedst night he was so active and cheerful Chapter 144 Chasing Her Touch Your Heart Suddenly, the doorbell rang. I could catch the faint scent of someone somewhat familiar waiting outside. "The healer." I carefully shifted Elias back into Rosalyn''s arms, almost unwilling to let him go, and moved to open the door. The healer was quick, professional one of the best from Sundrench. He examined Elias thoroughly yet efficiently, murmured an incantation over him, and handed Rosalyn a vial of potion with strict instructions. "Just give him the medicine as directed. His fever should break by tomorrow morning," the healer said. "Thank you," Rosalyn replied. The healer bowed respectfully before me as he took his leave. I snapped my fingers, conjuring a portal, and gestured for him to step through it would get him back to the pce much faster. He thanked me and disappeared into the swirling blue light of the portal. Rosalyn slumped back onto the sofa, cradling Elias against her chest. I sat down across from her, my elbows resting on my knees, silently watching her. It felt a little strange, sitting here like this. Just a mother and a king, both broken in different ways, trying to protect something precious together. "He''s a strong baby," I said after a while. "He gets that from Mikael." "And from you," I added without thinking. She looked at me, her expression softening. Though her face had changed, I could still see glimpses of the girl she once was, something that surfaced every time she interacted with me. "You did well today," she said quietly. 1 shrugged, feeling a bit ufortable. "I was just asked to help." "And you epted?" I met her hazel eyes directly. "I don''t see why I wouldn''t. Didn''t I promise that I would honor my vow to Mikael?" "You did. And for that, I am very grateful to you." "It''s no big deal," I replied. Elias stirred in his sleep, and Rosalyn shifted him gently. Without looking at me, she patted the empty spot on the sofa beside her-a tentative invitation. A small flutter echoed under my ribs. I rose slowly from my seat and sat down next to her. We stayed there quietly, side by side, without saying much. Just breathing the same air, sharing the same calm space. It felt like we were just beginning to reconcile our rtionship. Or perhaps this was the new beginning Leonidas had spoken to me about not long ago. After a while, Rosalyn carefullyid Elias down in his bed, making sure not to wake the restless little one. When she returned, she tucked her feet beneath her on the sofa and looked at me. "So," she said, her voice teasing slightly, "you survived your first babysitting experience." "Just barely." A smile tugged at her lips. I caught my breath for a moment how mesmerizing it was. Elysian immediately screamed in my head to stop being an idiot drooling over a simple smile. "You''re not as terrifying as you think you are," she added. I raised an eyebrow. "I''m terrifying when I need to be." And then, to my surprise, sheughed. The sound echoed through the room, rich and melodic, filling the hollow spaces in my heart. "You''ve always been like that," she said. "What do you mean?" Her gaze softened. "Fierce and heartless. Though I think you''re far too harsh on yourself, Killian." Chapter 145: Chasing Her - Truthfulness Chapter 145: Chasing Her - Truthfulness Chapter 145 Chapter 145: Chasing Her - Truthfulness Killian''s POV I couldn''t remember thest time I felt this restless. I had just left Rosalyn''s home, giving her the chance to get some much-needed rest while little Elias was still sound asleep. One look at the exhaustion etched across her face, and I knew she desperately needed the break. The distance between the Beta residence and the Alpha''s manor was barely a few meters. Within five minutes, the grand building rose before me. I hesitated at the foot of the stairs, giving myself a moment to think. Was I really ready to face Jayden? Maybe it would be smarter to turn back, return to the pce, and push this conversation to another day. But then again, if I kept waiting until I felt ready, when would that ever be? Technically, I didn''t owe anyone an exnation. This was between Rosalyn and me. No one else. Still, I couldn''t deny that I''d started to see Jayden as a true friend. More than that, he was Mikael''s brother. "Better get it over with." Elysian''s voice cut through my hesitation like a de. "Jayden deserves to know where you stand, before things get tooplicated. He''s Rosalyn''s brother-inw, Killian. Respect that," Elysian said through the link. "Alright, I''ll give it a shot," I answered with a sigh. Several werewolves lingered around the manor''s entrance. There wasn''t a single trace of Lycan scent in the air. Jayden was waiting for me at the top of the steps, arms crossed casually over his broad chest. His gray eyes gleamed with that familiar, mischievous spark, though there was a certain heaviness behind them too. "Killian, my friend. It''s been too long," he called out with a grin. I resisted the urge to roll my eyes. "You literally just saw me earlier, Jayden." Heughed and came down the steps, slinging an arm around my shoulder. "Still as fiery as ever," he teased, giving my arm a hearty p in that rough, brotherly way of his. "Come on inside. We''re not freezing our asses off out here." He guided me through the doorway. The manor smelled of old wood and faded history, though bits of it had been updated with modern touches. Luna Karina, his wife, greeted me warmly, bowing her head with graceful formality. She quietly asked one of the staff to prepare tea for their guest. "It''s a pleasure to wee you to our humble home, Your Majesty," Luna Karina said sweetly. "The honor is mine, to meet the partner of such a noble Alpha," I replied with a polite smile. Luna Karina chuckled. "Please, don''t call him noble. You''ll only make his head bigger." "Ouch! Cruel, darling, absolutely cruel!" Jayden whined dramatically, making a face. Whatever image he''d built as the stoic Alpha crumbled instantly at his wife''s teasing, while Luna Karina looked like she would happily sink into the floor to escape the embarrassment. We sat across from each other in his study, the fire crackling steadily in the hearth between us. A servant had alreadye by, setting down a tray of light snacks and pouring steaming tea into our cups. "So.." Jayden began, taking a leisurely sip, his sharp gaze peeking at me over the rim, "what''s so urgent that you had toe all this way, Killian?" A hint of amusement colored his tone, but I could sense the curiosity underneath. I exhaled slowly, my fingers absently tracing the curve of my cup. "I''m here to talk to you about Mikael''s letter." Jayden''s jaw tensed. The small shift in his expression told me he hadn''t known not about the letter, not about any of it. And the fact that I had kept it from him. Well, it was no surprise if he felt betrayed. I would owe him an apology before this was over. I pulled out the worn, crumpled copy from my pocket. The original was still safe in Rosalyn''s hands. "He asked me to protect them," I saidpose Sessfully unlocked! trusted me to watch over them if he couldn''t." Jayden leaned back slowly, the weight of my words settling in.. "Did he now," he murmured. "I''m not here to take anything from them. Or to rece him, Jayden." Chapter 145: Chasing Her Truthfulness Jayden''s eyes shimmered, struggling to contain a tide of emotions as he read the letter. Pain. Grief. A sh of anger. And something deeper lurking in the stormy gray of his gaze. "I get it. Part of it, at least," he said finally, voice low. "But why you? Why did he choose you? Why go so far as to leave a letter?" His questions came rapid-fire, frustration bleeding into his tone. "It''splicated," I said. "Then uplicate it, Killian!" Jayden snapped. "I deserve to know. Mikael was my brother. Rosalyn is still my family." I stared at him for a long moment, weighing my options. Elysian''s warnings echoed in my mind to keep the deeper truths hidden. So I told him part of the story: about my bond with Ruby. About the cruelty, the mistakes that had led to her death at the executioner''s stake. I left out the part about her false family. I only told him what I could: my own failings. And then I spoke of the present of the cycle of rebirth that had brought me here. As I spoke, I watched Jayden''s face harden, the emotions swirling too fast to read. I wouldn''t me him if he hated me after this. But Iid it all bare anyway, the guilt, the shame, and the one thing that mattered most: my intent to make amends for the past. Jayden blew out a harsh breath, dragging a hand down his face as he looked anywhere but at me. "There''s a lot to take in, Killian. Honestly, this all sounds insane," he muttered, worn out. "You know what really pisses me off?" he said after a moment, voice rough. "It''s not that you''re here now. It''s that some part of me actually trusts you." I met his gaze without flinching. "Thank you, Jayden. I owe everything to Mikael. Maybe it doesn''t look that way to you but he gave Ruby''s reincarnation a chance at a life filled with happiness." Jayden''s stare was heavy, unreadable. After a long moment, he reached for the decanter, poured whiskey into two sses, and slid one across the desk toward me. The tea we''d been served earlier sat forgotten, growing cold between us. "I wasn''t blind, you know," Jayden said as he threw back the whiskey in a single swallow. "There was something different about the way you looked at Rosalyn. At first, I thought you had some crush on my brother''s wife. I figured I''d have to step in and set things straight. But..." He let the words trail off. "I was wrong now. It''s moreplicated than I thought." He set the empty ss down with a soft clink. "Whatever your intentions are now, understand this Rosalyn still loves Mikael. She''s part of this pack. She''s my family. You get me, Killian?" His voice was hard, his meaning unmistakable. I nodded firmly, epting his warning for what it was. "I don''t know you well enough, Killian," Jayden said, his tone low. "Can''t say what''s changed in you. But from your own story, you sound even worse than the rumors made you out to be." A bitter smile tugged at the corner of my mouth. "You only know the tip of the iceberg, Jayden." Jayden''s mouth twisted into something between a grimace and a sad, tired smile. "I won''t lie. Part of me wants to throw you through that damn wall and be done with it,¡± he half growled. "Maybe I will. After I''ve finished sorting through all this." "You hurt my member family, Killian. Even if you didn''t mean to." The whiskey burned on its way down. I still keep my mouth and hear the man. "I know," I said smoothly. "And I''m sorry. Even though I know sorry isn''t nearly enough." Jayden watched me carefully, the weight of a thousand unspoken things hanging in the air between us. "And now you want to stay by Ruby''s reincarnation?" he asked. "I have to," I said simply. He studied me, a slow understanding dawning behind his eyes. "You''ll never stop loving her," he said, almost like it was a fact he didn''t even need me to confirm. "No," I admitted. Jayden leaned back in his chair, his expression hardening once again. "Then don''t you dare," he said quietly but firmly, "use her grief as an excuse to chase after what''s already gone." 213 Chapter 145: Chasing Her - Truthfulness His words hit harder than any sword or dagger ever could. I set my ss down and stood. "I didn''te here looking for your permission." Jayden gave a grim smile. "Good. Because you weren''t going to get it." I turned to leave, but before I could take more than a few steps, his voice stopped me razor-sharp: "Take care of my niece and nephew, Killian. Or I''ll make you wish you''d stayed dead." "Always." I promised without looking back. The conversation had been tense. No surprise there. I had a feeling whatever friendship we had was about to change, though whether for better or worse, I didn''t know. Either way, Jayden had every right to make that choice. I was the viin in this story, the one who had brought nothing but pain. Comining wasn''t an option. I didn''t return to the pce afterward. I needed the night and the cold air. The kind of quiet that made you realize how small you were beneath the vast, uncaring stars. There was somewhere else I needed to be. Mikael''s grave. I had to tell him that I had at least fulfilled a small part of his request. That I had faced Jayden. The path narrowed as it wound through the woods. Moonlight spilled across the trail in broken shards of silver. I followed it, my boots crunching against the frost- hardened earth. I didn''t hear the second set of footsteps until it was toote. "Well, well." The voice sliced through the quiet like nails dragging across stone. "If it isn''t the missing king." I spun around and saw exactly thest person I wanted to meet tonight. He lounged against a tree, as casual and smug as ever. Pale as marble, ck hair tousled by the breeze, and fangs glinting even though he wasn''t smiling. "Darius." ˆ@ Chapter 146 Chapter 146: Chasing Her Where Trust Begins Chapter 146: Chasing Her - Where Trust Begins Killian''s POV "Killy! It''s been ages," he jeered. "What do you want?" After vanishing for so long, that bastard had the nerve to show up again. He gave a careless shrug and sauntered closer with that insufferable, predatory grace only vampires seemed to possess. "Maybe I missed you." Darius twirled a footzily, almost like he was dancing as he approached. "Or maybe," he went on with a fake, chipper tone, "I heard a rumor about a king who''s gone soft. Hm, though you were still ruthless enough when you ughtered my kindst year!" My blood turned to ice. Anger boiled under my skin. I clenched my jaw. "Touch them, and I''ll rip your heart out before you even blink." Dariusughed, light and easy. "Rx, old friend. I''m not here to harm your precious little humans." I flexed my fingers, resisting the urge to shift and tear him apart on the spot. He tilted his head, studying me like I was some fascinating new puzzle. After a beat, that dark, familiar grin of his flickered back to life. "It''s been too long since we hung out. How about a little chat, my king?" I stared at him like he''d lost his mind. "Have youpletely lost it? Get out of my sight." "Always so serious." Darius trailed behind me. My temples throbbed with irritation. All I wanted was to visit Mikael''s grave and get back to the pce. Damn it. "You''re a filthy parasite. Go leech off someone else." Dariusughed again, a low, mocking sound. "Oh,e now. You and me, we''re practically family." I bared my teeth in a snarl. "Changing history now, Darius? Lycans and werewolves don''t spawn the undead." Not that Darius seemed offended. Strangely enough, he hadn''t changed, not like the rest of his kind, who hated lycans and werewolves. I deeply regretted ever sparing his life back then. Darius gave a dramatic sigh, pressing a hand over his heart. "Ancient history. Come on. It''s been a whole year since you butchered my kin. I thought maybe you''d even miss me." "Not even close. Crawl back into whatever hole you slithered out of," I said coldly. Instead of backing off, Darius kept pace with me, casually inspecting his nails like we weren''t just a hair away from violence. "You know," he drawled, "I''ve been wondering what you''ve been up to. No wars. No crusades. Not even a decent massacre." "Maybe I''m learning a little self-control," I said sharply. "Or maybe," he said, his voice dropping low, "you''re just tired of being a god among insects." I shook my head. I had no idea what twisted metaphors that bastard was trying to spin. I racked my brain for a way to get rid of him. Seeing myck of response, Darius started rambling again. "Ah. Struck a nerve, did I?" I ignored himpletely. And then in a blink, Darius was right in front of me, his boots cracking against the frozen ground. His long hair hung loose around his face, and his dark red eyes, the same shade as mine, but so much colder locked onto 1. me. "I''m not here to fight you, Killian," he said, deadly serious. "If I wanted you dead, I wouldn''t waste time with insults." "Then what do you want?" I snarled. He shrugged, a casual, annoying motion. "I''m bored." "Great. Step''up, then. I''ll wipe that boredom off the face of the earth," I snapped. Sessfully unlocked! Immortality''s a drag, you know. Same blood.. disappeared." "Not exactly what I had in mind," Darius said, sig Same faces. Same empty nights. I''m sick of it. I stared him down, waiting for a real answer. He only smiled wider. "I''m serious. I''m sick of what I am." "You think joking about extinction is going to make me pity you?" I asked coldly. Chapter 146: Chasing Her Where Trust Begins "Pity? No." His smirk faded, and for a heartbeat, I glimpsed the centuries of weariness behind his mask. "I just figured you, of all creatures, might understand." "Say I''m tired of blood," Darius said, shing a crooked grin, fangs glinting. "Maybe I want to eat human food instead." "And aren''t you tired of immortality?" he asked. "No." It was the truth. I had always longed for immortality so much that boredom had never touched me. The thought of going through endless cycles of reincarnation, losing all the progress I had fought so hard to achieve, was far worse. Darius pped his hands once, breaking the heavy silence. "Well then! Therapy session over. You look like you''re two seconds away from punching me." "Tempting." He let out a softugh. "Until next time, old friend." And just like that, he was gone, swallowed by the swirling mist. I let out a slow breath, feeling the tension bleed from my shoulders. Damn him. He always knew exactly where to cut deepest. I wasn''t surprised he had shown up not even here, in the middle of a human city. Darius usually preferred hiding behind the barriers of magicalnds. Judging by the way he acted, it seemed he was ready to die. If that was the case, it was only a matter of time. I hated vampires. Especially because of everything we shared in our past. But maybewith him, it was just a little different. I no longer felt any urge to visit Mikael''s grave. Maybe it would be better to find Rosalyn instead. Getting a little closer to her didn''t sound like such a bad idea after all. When I returned to the pce, I found the training grounds alive with the movements of soldiers and junior officers, drilling in tight, precise formations. Their skin gleamed under the torchlight, casting flickers of gold across the yard. Not far off, Leonidas leaned against the fence, arms folded, watching the recruits with the same pride a big brother might have at a school y. "Back so soon? I thought you''d be staying at Rosalyn''s," he said, without looking at me. I snorted. "Kill that crazy idea." He gave me a sidelong nce. His sharp eyes immediately caught the leftover tension radiating off me. "You look like you just fought a mountain and lost." "A lot happened. I ran into Darius." Leonidas'' face darkened immediately. "That bastard leech''s still breathing?" "Unfortunately." He grunted. "What''s he after this time? Your blood? Your throne?" "Mypany. Looks like he''s having some kind of existential meltdown," I said dryly. Leonidas barked out a short, roughugh. "About damn time. Bastard''s only a few centurieste." I leaned against the fence next to him, my eyes following the soldiers as they marched with determined steps. They were still so young. Eager. Na?ve enough to believe that loyalty alone could shield them from the horrors of war. I envied them for it. "Seems like this new batch ising along nicely," I said, steering the conversation elsewhere. Leonidas nodded. "Tougher thanst year''s recruits. Smarter too. Looks like we''re actually going to have a few field healers embedded this time." "Good. They''ll need them." We stood there in silence for a while, the cool night air brushing against us. "You know," Leonidas said eventually, "you could just tell me what''s really bothering you." I smirked faintly. "Wasn''t the therapy session enough?" "Therapy was just the appetizer. I''m the main course." "My rtionship with Rosalyn is fine. That''s what you want to hear, right?" I teased. Leonidas snapped his fingers with a grin. "Bingo! So... any progress?" he asked. Chapter 146: Chasing Her Where Trust Begins I thought about it for a moment, reying our earlier interactions. "She doesn''t hate me. I haven''t gained her trust the way I want to, but it''s something. For now, it''s enough, "Better than getting thrown out again, right?" Leonidas tilted his head thoughtfully. "You can''t force it, Killian. You just must be there. Someone she can lean on when she''s ready." I let out a long, weary breath. "I intend to, Leonidas. For as long as it takes. It doesn''t bother me." "Killian," he said, voice softer now, "I know you''re desperate to have her back. But don''t lose yourself in the process." I shot him a look. "What, are you my therapist now?" He grinned, waving a hand dismissively. "Oh, my king. You know your cousin''s a master of heart-to-hearts." Leonidas grew a little more serious. "Bottom line I worry about you. Take care of yourself too, alright?" I stayed there a while longer, watching the recruits drill under a sky thick with stars, the cold slowly sinking into my bones. "I''ll try to remember." And then it hit me, fragments of old conversations with Rosalyn, little things she''d said that I hadn''t paid enough attention 1. to. The realization mmed into me so hard I went cold, my skin draining of color. "Shit." Leonidas arched a brow at me. "What now?" "Rosalyn," I said, struggling to find the words, "she was hinting that she was nning toe here." "WHAT?!" Chapter 147 Subscribed 0 Likes Chapter 147: Chasing Her - Open Your Heart Part! Chapter 147: Chasing Her - Open Your Heart Part I Ruby''s POV "I must be losing my mind." It was supposed to be a throwawayment. Something I''d said half-jokingly over tea, when missing Mikael became too heavy a weight to carry alone. "Sometimes I miss his castle," I murmured with a wistful smile that day. "Not the ce itself. Just... that feeling of being home." I hadn''t meant for Killian to take it seriously. But Killian Rudwick never did things halfway. He immediately treated it as a request. I was such a fool. What on earth had I been thinkin "Mom!" The twins called out together, racing toward me with their dresses in hand. Each one held up her choice proudly. Alice stepped forward first, showing off a bright pink dress, one of the gifts Killian had sent anonymously. I had known for a while now that all those nameless presents had been from him. "Mom, do you think this looks pretty?" Alice asked eagerly. "Yes, darling. It''s beautiful. You can wear it," I said, smiling. "Yay!". With a squeal of delight, Alice ran off to her room to change. Next came Anna, clutching a dress identical to Alice''s, except hers was a soft, powder blue. "I have one too, Mom! Do you think it looks good on me?" she asked, blinking up at me with wide, hopeful eyes. I smiled warmly and stroked her hair. "Yes, Anna. It''s perfect for you. Go on, get dressed with your sister twin. I''ll be in soon to do your hair," I said gently. Anna''s face lit up like the sun, and she bounced off excitedly to join Alice. "Alice! We''re going to be princesses today!" she shouted. Alice''s excited squeal echoed from the bedroom. I shook my head,ughing softly at their endless energy. They had long dreamed of visiting the Kingdom of Sundrench, back when Mikael was still alive. But with the surge of vampire poptions and the rising tensions, they hadn''t been able to ept Killian''s invitation to the pce. "Are you girls ready?" I called as I stepped into their room. They were already spinning around in their dresses, giggling. Both had managed to put on their outfits by themselves, adding little bracelets to their arms. "My beautiful little princesses," I praised. My heart is swelling. Giggling, Alice and Anna threw themselves into my arms. "I want braids, Mom!" Alice demanded. "And I want ribbons!" Anna chimed in, her eyes sparkling. "Alright, alright,¡± Iughed. "Come sit in your chairs, my little royalty." I guided their small shoulders toward their chairs and gently began to work on their hair. Alice got her wish: neat braids trailing down her back. Anna beamed happily as I tied a ribbon into the side of her hair. Watching their faces light up filled me with a bittersweet joy. For once, it felt like they could forget even for just a moment the sadness they carried over losing their father. Once the twins were taken care of, I turned back to Elias. The little boy was the perfect image of Mikael so much so that sometimes it physically hurt to look at him. "My handsome little man," I whispered, brushing his soft, round cheek. Elias giggled, clutching his toy with chubby fingers. Thanks to Killian''s help, he was so much healthier now. I owed that man more than words could say. Elias hardly cri hunger that made me smile. "Mom, when''s Uncle Killianing?" Alice ask Sessfully unlocked! "In a little bit. It''s only eight in the morning," I replied. Momentster, the doorbell rang. I shifted Elias on my hip and made my way to the door, only to find him standing there. Kilian wore a brown coat over a white shirt, the top two buttons left undone. A small, almost sheepish smile tugged at his Chapter 147: Chasing Her - Open Your Heart Part! lips. His hands stayed buried deep in his coat pockets, as if he didn''t quite know what to do with them. "You''re early," I said, lifting Elias slightly. "Couldn''t stay away." He answered with mock exhaustion, making me almostugh. I couldn''t remember thest time Killian joked without a sharp edge to his voice. How much of this man did I really know anymore? Before I could gather my thoughts, Anna and Alice tumbled into the foyer, practically vibrating with excitement. "UNCLE KILLIAN!" "Are we going to the pce now, Uncle?!" Anna eximed happily. Killian chuckled and nodded. "If you''re ready." Alice tugged insistently at my sleeve, pouting. "Come on, Mom." Before I could adjust Elias again, Killian knelt down and stretched out his arms. "Come here, little princess," he said. I caught my breath. It was too easy to forget behind the cold titles, the mistakes just how gentle Killian was with children. Alice hesitated for only a heartbeat beforeunching herself into his embrace with a peal ofughter. Killian lifted her effortlessly, as if she weighed nothing at all. When he turned to look at me, there was something shy in his eyes, almost like he expected me to scold him. But I didn''t do that. Strangely enough, I didn''t even think to stop him. What surprised me even more was how naturally Killian had bonded with the twins deeper than any casual acquaintance. Even during family gatherings, Alice and Anna would proudly dere Uncle Killian as their favorite person. Aku meraih tas popok, memeluk Elias, dan berkata, "Kita sudah siap." "We''ll use a portal," he exined. "It''s too long time to approach the borders and pass through the magical shield." The portal loomed before us, a massive whirl of light, shining so brightly it hurt the eyes. Its swirling energy crackled through the air, an eerie hum that could easily frighten anyone unfamiliar with it. But I remembered this portal vividly. The way Killian''s eyes now glinted with a trace of mischief told me he remembered it too. How could I forget dragging him to the family vault, only to end up tangled in something much less innocent? That bastard had the nerve to flirt even then. "Let''s go." Alice and Anna didn''t hesitate for even a second. They squealed in delight as they darted through the portal''s glowing center. Wended right at the border of Sundrench, where members of the royal staff were already waiting. I found myself puzzled, why not just portal directly to the pce itself? But it quickly became clear: Killian wanted to indulge the twins'' curiosity. And he did patiently answering their endless stream of questions along the way: Were there towers at the pce? How many rooms? Did the kitchens still bake chocte cakes shaped like wolves? Were there secret passageways? Killian met each question with a dry, unhurried response, never losing patience not even when Anna asked whether they could rece the royal guards with puppies. Elias babbled contentedly from my arms, and Killian even found time to humor him too. As the pce gates finally rose into view, my chest tightened. My heart hammered painfully against my ribs. was here again. At the ce where it had all happened: Love, loyalty, grief, and betrayal. Each memory etched deep into the stones of that ce. I couldn''t look away. The banners still snapped high in the wind. The towering spires still wed at the sky. Despite everything it still looked beautiful. Like a memory I hadn''t yet managed to destroy. A ce where I had once died. Killian pulled the car up near the grand staircase. He came to my side, Alice perched securely on his hip, while Elias snored softly against my shoulder. Only then did I notice the changes. The heart of the pce remained the same, but the edges bore the signs of time and renewal. Beatrice, the old head maid a mortal werewolf would be long gone by now. Unlike Killian and Leonidas, her time had always been finite. And now the pce moved on without her, just as it had moved on without so many others. I shifted my focus to where two figures stood waiting. Leonidas was at the entrance, practically vibrating with excitement. Chapter 147: Chasing Her Open Your Heart Part! Next to him stood a shorter man with jet-ck hair, someone I didn''t recognize at first nce. Killian leaned down and murmured, "Come. They''re waiting for you." He offered his free hand to me. I nced at him briefly before slipping my fingers into his. A small step, a fragile offering of trust. Leonidas greeted me as though I were a long-lost friend, bowing low with a dramatic flourish that made the twins squeal withughter. "My queen of hearts! How I have missed your glorious tyranny!" he proimed. Iughed, the tension in my chest loosening slightly. "Hardly a queen these days, Leo." "You''ll always outrank me," he said, grinning. Then he turned and tugged the unknown man forward by the arm. "This is Sean," Leonidas announced proudly. "My mate, the one I told you about." Sean extended his hand with an easy smile. There was something immediately warm and weing about him. "It''s a pleasure to finally meet you, mydy," Sean said. "And you as well, Sean. I''m Rosalyn Torrance," I replied, shaking his hand firmly. "And I mourn the life you''re about to endure, tied to that one," I added with a teasing smile. Sean sighed dramatically. "Atst, someone who truly understands me." "My love! How could you say that?!" Leonidas wailed. "I thought you loved me beyond the seventh heaven!" Sean shot him a look, the kind that suggested he was seriously considering throwing Leonidas off the nearest balcony. "Come, my Sean said smoothly, turning back to me. "Let us show you around the pce once again." And just like that, Sean and Leonidas appointed themselves our tour guides. The twins quickly wrapped Leonidas around their little fingers, dragging him into a full- fledged castle tour. He scooped Anna into his arms while Alice clung tightly to Killian''s coat, bombarding them both with questions about the royal kitchens, hidden gardens, and secret passageways. I caught Killian''s eye across the corridor. Instead looking at me, he was watching the girls. The way they clung to him so naturally, and they trusted him. And something in his expression softened. It made me wonder, quietly: How much have you changed, Killian? Subscribed Chapter 148 Chapter 148: Chasing Her Open Your Heart Part II Killian''s POV "Wow... she''s stunning!" "Whose picture is that, Uncle Killian?" The twins'' voices rang out in unison as they pointed at a photograph hanging on the wall. It showed a breathtaking woman with ocean-blue eyes, dressed in a flowing white gown. Her golden hair tumbled down to the middle of her back. Her skin glowed beneath the light, radiant and wless, framed by a sea of flowers. Her smile was serene, timeless-frozen in a moment of pure happiness. "That''s my mate." The twins gasped, wide-eyed with excitement. They leaned in toward the photo, chattering all over again. "Uncle Killian''s mate is so beautiful!" Anna eximed. Alice nodded eagerly. "She is! We really want to meet her. Where is she now?" "Yeah! I want to meet the angel." "Angel?" I echoed. They both nodded enthusiastically, practically bouncing with energy. Then they turned to me, tugging at the hem of my coat. "She must be a queen. A beautiful, cool queen, right?" Anna grinned wide. "Alice, she looks like the queen from our fairytale book! Do you remember?" "Oh yeah! What was it called again?!" Alice pressed her thumb against her forehead, clearly struggling to dig up the title. The room, however, had taken on a new tension. On one side stood Leonidas and Sean, both silent andpletely still. They stared straight ahead, but their stiff posture revealed more than words ever could. They knew exactly who the woman in the photo was. My eyes shifted to Rosalyn. She stood frozen, trembling ever so slightly. Shock flooded her face as she stared at the image at a version of herself from long ago, now disyed for all to see. A moment passed, and then her eyes locked with mine. Those hazel eyes gripped me, pulling me in just as the sea-blue ones once did. There was pain in her gaze. A flicker of regret stirred within me. Rosalyn had finally found peace, and now because of this old wounds were reopening. "Alright, kids. There''s still a lot left to see on the tour." Sean stepped in smoothly, redirecting the twins'' attention with cheerful chatter about the pce. Leonidas gave me onest look, a silent message in his eyes before joining his mate. He moved to Sean''s side, his hand resting gently, protectively, on the younger man''s back. And just like that, it was only the two of us. Me and the woman in the photo. Or rather, the woman she had be. Rosalyn stood motionless. And then she spoke. "How long?" I closed my eyes briefly before answering. "Since I realized I was a fool falling for you long before I ever understood it." "You called me your mate." Her voice trembled. Then she inhaled sharply, trying to steady herself. "You didn''t even deny it when the twins called Ruby a queen. What was that, Killian?" "I''m sorry-" "No. That''s not the point." Her words cut deadly and cold. "The truth is, I was never your mate. Let alone your queen. So don''t go around iming things that were never yours, Your Majesty." Her sclera flushed with red, and her irises shimmered, threatening to spill over. Both fists clenched tightly at her sides, a physical restraint against her spiraling emotions. "It''s a long story," I confessed quietly. "This visit I had hoped it would be my chance to exin what I''ve kept buried all this time." Sessfully unlocked! urned her face away, took a step back; putting Rosalyn looked ready to retaliate. Her lips parted but space between us, not just in distance, but in trust. "It would be wise not to overstep, Your Majesty," she said with steel in her voice. "I won''t ruin the twins'' day because of you." She scooped Elias into her arms and followed Sean, who was already guiding the twins to another part of the pce. I Chapter 148: Chasing Her - Open Your Heart Part II pressed my fingers to the bridge of my nose, letting out a quiet sigh. I had braced myself for this moment because I knew. I knew this was inevitable. That''s why I had nned everything, hoping Rosalyn wouldn''te away from this visit hating me more. Her presence here meant I still had a chance to speak the truth I''d kept focked away for so long. I turned my gaze once more to the photograph. My hand rose instinctively, fingertips brushing against the ss that held her image. Untouched by time. My lips lifted into a faint, mncholic smile. "I''ve miss you, my love." And then, I walked away with the weight of all that had been left unsaid pressing against my chest. I kept my word. I didn''t let the twins'' joy be ruined. But they kept circling back with questions-about the angel, the queen, the queen with eyes like ice, like Anna''s favorite storybook heroine. Their insistence only grew. Sean nced at me with an apologetic look; he couldn''t distract them. "The queen passed away, darling." Rosalyn''s voice broke through the moment. I froze who stood. She nced at me, only briefly, then turned her forced smile toward Alice and Anna. "What?!" "NO WAY!" Alice and Anna cried out, one after the other. Their eyes widened with disbelief and hurt. "Mom must be lying!" Alice cried. I knelt down immediately, soothing Alice while gently reaching for Anna''s hand. "My dear, your mother is telling the truth. She''s no longer with us." The words came out like shards of ss in my throat as though saying them out loud chipped away a piece of myself. Across from me, Rosalyn kept herposure barely, running aforting hand over Alice''s hair. "Oh... okay." Alice lowered her head, her eyes growing dim. Anna followed suit, quietly absorbing the grief. These two such gentle souls. Sweet, empathetic little angels. And yet, despite their age, they turned to me and offered something unexpected. "We''re sorry," they whispered, voices trembling, "for upsetting the king and making you sad." I exhaled, the breath catching somewhere between sorrow and awe. "You don''t need to apologize, especially not with tears like that." I told them softly,. I reached out to wipe away the tears from Anna''s eyes, then Alice''s. Taking their small hands into mine, I looked into their faces with as much warmth and honesty as I could summon. "If she''s watching from above. I think your queen would be heartbroken to see you cry like this." Alice looked up faintly and nced at Anna. Their eyes met,municating without words. Then suddenly, their arms were around me, wrapping me in a hug so full of emotion, it nearly stole the air from my lungs. I froze. For a brief moment, I lost my footing. I didn''t know how to respond. What if my embrace hurt them? "Uncle must be very sad," Anna whispered. I turned, desperately, toward Leonidas. The bastard caught my look but offered no help, deliberately keeping his face calm and unreadable as if this moment wasn''t unfolding at all. "Yes," I said atst. "Yes, I am. I always have been. And it''s not wrong to grieve. Or to miss someone you love, even for a very long time." Across the room, Rosalyn looked at me stunned. She hadn''t expected that. Not that honesty from me. I picked up Anna gently, letting her settle into my arms. Alice, no longer shaking, held on to my hand, her little fingers now dry from tears. "You two must be starving," I said gently. "Here in the pce, you can have any sweet treat you like." Anna clung to my neck, sniffled, "Can we have chocte?" "And ice cream?" Alice chimed in, hopeful. "And candy?" Anna added again, barely missing a beat. One by one, they listed their desires. I nodded, with the condition they''d only have small portions. Just like that, the shadow lifted, andughter returned to the faces of two little girls who had just moments ago cried for a queen they never knew but loved all the same. "I''ll notify the head chef and the staff to begin preparations for the banquet, Your Majesty." Chapter 148: Chasing Her Open Your Heart Part II Sean offered a courteous bow before disappearing toward the kitchens. Leonidas, ever attentive, turned to Rosalyn and gently offered to escort her to the guest chambers. Elias was already growing fussy, rubbing his eyes and whining for sleep. I gave Rosalyn a faint nod. She returned it with a look I couldn''t quite decipher. But then, her lips moved ever so slightly. ''Meet me in the music room I love tonight'' My heart mmed hard against my ribs, the sound of it roaring in my ears. For a moment, everything else faded into silence. I repeated her words in my head barely able to believe them. Had Ruby changed her mind? ¿Ú Chapter 149 Chapter 149: Chasing Her - Open Your Heart Part III Killian''s POV "Don''t be nervous." "Just stay calm." I kept chanting those words like a rookie soldier stepping into his first war zone. It was ridiculous. This was just a simple meeting between me and a woman or so the cocky, delusional part of me kept saying. In reality, I''d already worn a path into the floor of my study. I was nothing if not self-aware, a very responsive king, thank you very much. And no matter how much I wanted to stop pacing, I only did it more. Sitting still made it worse. I lifted my gaze to the clock. Eight p.m. That meant Ruby was with Elias. The youngest always fell asleep quickly in this kingdom. Maybe the cooler climate helped, perfectly cozy for a baby to drift off in peace. The twins, meanwhile, were still full of energy. Leonidas was entertaining them tonight. I''d owe my cousin for that. Big time. ''You still have an hour, Killian. Don''t fall apart now'' I clicked my tongue. "How can I not fall apart, El? You''re supposed to share this emotional wreckage with me." "I''m the sane part of your soul, tyrant. Don''t drag me down with you." Elysian''s snide tone gave me a headache. I tuned out most of his rambling, but now he wasmenting on what I should do during the meeting. The worst part is my own wolf was suggesting behaviorpletely inappropriate for an ex. "What''s the harm? Just a wee kiss." "You call yourself my rational side, Elysian? You''re not even close a quarter." I severed the link before I lost my mind. If I let him talk any longer, I''d be insane by the time she arrived. That was when the study door swung open, and Leonidas walked in, looking even more drained than usual. "Damn. What happened to you?" I asked. He copsed onto the sofa, covering half his face with one arm, letting out a heavy sigh. "And here I thought I was the one carrying the weight of the world." I rubbed my face. "I''m seeing Rosalyn tonight. In the music room." "Oh." That Oh made my blood boil. He was treating this like some casual get-together. I wanted to kick him off the couch or maybe out the window. "Wait, did you say Rosalyn?" His head snapped up, eyes wide in disbelief. I responded byunching a pillow straight into his face. "Toote to be shocked," I said, deadpan. Leonidas caught the throw pillow with ease. "Heh, answer me this. Who asked who out, huh? You or her? No way it was her." "Sadly for you, the answer is yes. Ruby Lucienne." I lifted my chin just a little too high, wearing that smug look I hadn''t outgrown. That stupid pride that said, I''m the one who got to her first. I still liked calling her Rosalyn. Old habits die hard. "No way. Seriously?" Leonidas leaned forward, gawking like he hadn''t just spent the evening being mauled by toddlers. Then he burst outughing, and the sound filled the entire study. "No wonder you''ve paced a trench into the floor, Your Majesty," he said, voice dripping with mockery. "You can shut up now if you want to stay in this room," I snapped, jaw tight with irritation. But Leonidas, being who he is, only took that as an invitation to stay longer. He sprawled even deeper into the couch like he owned the ce. I considered dragging him out by the cor. Or calling his mate. Sean would get it done. "O sun of the realm, source of strength and heart of the kingdom... My patience red hotter than before. Leonidas, Sessfdity flekea started reciting the kingdom''s old ceremonial lines like some drunk pce scribe. "Face your foes with unshaken resolve. Raise your head above all enemies. You live for this. Now move!" he dered theatrically. "Leonidas, I swear if you want your lover to survive the night, you better stop," I muttered, half-threatening. Chapter 149: Chasing Her - Open Your Heart Part II... He pouted. "Hey, I''m supporting you in my own way!" "Yeah? Well, it''s useless." I adjusted the silk robe draped across me. Most of my chest was bare, the deep V in front doing nothing to cover me up. I was tempted to light a cigar or a kiseru. Those Japanese pipes were excellent for calming nerves. "Killian," Leonidas said, more rxed now, "just do what you always do." "I have no idea what you mean." "What I mean is be yourself. The best version of that self." His tone had shifted serious, like when he was training new recruits. He reclined fully now, head tilted back to stare at the intricate molding on the ceiling, like he used to do when we were boys hiding from our tutors. "You''ve always known how to act like a real king when it matters. Ruby sees that too, I''m sure." Then he looked at me really looked. That single eye of his held something gentler than usual. "I think tonight will go just fine. You just need to trust it." The weight on my shoulders like a mountain of stone had started to melt away. I was no longer a nervous wreck, like some teenager Igirl, and I had regained control over myself. For the rest of that hour, Leonidas talked about the twins, though he too looked exhausted from keeping up with their boundless energy. Sean, apparently, was going to help watch over Elias while he apanied herter. They''d spoken earlier about something. Most likely, Leonidas''s guess had been right. Ten minutes left. Elysian was trying to reestablish the connection again, but I told him to wait, he could resurface if the meeting went well. Leonidas stood up and gave my shoulder a firm pat as he passed the sofa. "You should go pick her up. Don''t make her walk there alone. Be charming, cousin," he said with that signature mischievous grin. "Easier said than done." Straightening my clothes, I rose from the sofa. I did my best topose my expression, trying not to ruin the atmosphere before it even began. I waved dismissively, though I couldn''t hide the embarrassment on my face. At this point, I had no choice but to admit even to Elysian that I''d crossed the threshold where logic could save me. "GOOD LUCK, YOUR MAJESTY!" I tried my hardest to ignore the overly enthusiastic support parade behind me. It was just too embarrassing to acknowledge. I bit the inside of my cheek. I was a Lycan; nothing should be able to bring me this low. Ruby''s guest chamber wasn''t far from mine. I walked toward it at a steady pace, even though my heart felt like it might leap out of my chest. The door stood before me-closed. I stared at it, trying to sense what Rosalyn might be doing inside. It was exactly nine o''clock. It''s jst a short walk. ''Killian, it''s just a door! Knock already!'' Elysian was already impatient to see our mate again. I could feel the surge of emotions racing through my wolf. After a few seconds, I finally knocked on the door. And soon enough, it opened to reveal the woman I''d always loved. Rosalyn smiled sweetly. That entire smile was for me. "Hi. Sorry. I''m a bitte, aren''t I?" I said, guilt creeping into my voice. "Oh, not at all. We agreed on nine. You''re just two minutes early," she replied gently. Turns out Sean was already inside, standing guard. He bowed slightly in my direction, and I gave him a slow, respectful nod in return. "So, shall we go?" Rosalyn asked. I nearly strained my eyes trying not to gawk as Rosalyn removed thestyer of fabric. The soft skin of her shoulder, the elegant curve of her back, exposed as she turned caught the light of the crystalmp and seemed to glow. My jaw tensed. My teeth ached. And that wild, relentless part of me, Elysian roared with the need to pull her into my arms and im her for my bed. "Killian?" I cleared my throat, suddenly aware I''d drifted far too deep into that moment. I crushed the rush of images that Elysian tried to push into my head. The visions filled with desire and instinct. None of that would help right now. "Sorry. My thoughts wandered." I offered my hand, grateful when she took it. Ruby stepped forward, graceful as ever, and walked beside me after giving Sean a brief nod. My chest-tightened with a warmth I hadn''t felt in years as she gently slipped her hand through the crook Chapter 149 Chasing Her-Open Your Heart Part II... of my arm. "Let''s go. It''s been forever since Ist saw the music room." There was something more behind those words. I wondered if she, too, was remembering the nights we once spent there, the quiet songs, the echoes ofughter. But questions were too fragile to voice. "It''s changed a bit," I said. Ruby turned toward me, curiosity lighting up her face. "Really? I imagine it''s even more beautiful now. Especially with the gardens around it." Her words softened something inside me. I hadn''t walked these halls with her in decades. Not like this. "You''ll see. I think it might surprise you." Chapter 150 0 Likes Chapter 150: Second Chance Chapter 150: Second Chance Ruby''s POV I stood in there, captivated by the scene before me. This ce felt oddly different from how I remembered it as Ruby. Perhaps it was just me, but the room seemed more expansive than before. New musical instruments had been arranged neatly in their designated spots, each gleaming under the warm, elegant lights that spilled from the ornate chandelier above. I walked in slowly, inhaling the familiar scent that lingered in the air. It was subtly different, yet nostalgia clung to it like a forgotten melody. My fingers instinctively reached for the etched notes above the keys. A small smile found its way to my lips. It had been so long since Ist felt connected to a piano. Mikael kept one at his house, but I rarely yed it. Every time I tried, it brought back memories I wasn''t ready to face. "Do you like the changes?" he asked gently. I turned to him, still a little taken aback by how expressive he''d be. It was a stark contrast to the man I once knew even if I had been the only one able to soften him back then. "Very much," I said. "Did you do this because the room''s in use more often now?" He walked toward me, hands sped neatly behind his back. A faint shake of his head answered my question. "Not really. I rarely host parties anymore. These days, I simply fund them and stay out of sight," he said with a wry smile. Killian''s fingers drifted toward the piano, touching the keys with that familiar grace. A bittersweet longing stirred inside me, surfacing from the depths of a heart I''d tried hard to mend. I reached out and tugged lightly on his silk sleeve. He looked down at me puzzeled. I tipped my chin toward the pianist''s benc. A silent invitation for him. His eyes widened slightly. "You want us to y together?" he asked, disbeliefcing his voice. "I do," I said simply. His expression brightened in a way that felt almost out of character-but endearingly so. We sat side by side on the bench. After settling on an instrument that suited us both, our fingers moved in tandem, dancing across the keys with practiced ease. Notes met and merged, weaving a gentle melody that rose and lingered in the stillness of the night. Overhead, the moon shone in full glory, casting its silver glow through the tall windows. I heard a quiet, contented hum escape Killian''s lips, and I smiled. I felt it too. Our souls were singing to each other again, like twin mes rekindled. For a moment, I closed my eyes, trusting instinct to guide me. Astonishingly, not a single note faltered. We used to do this often, back then. Especially on nights when Killian returned weary from dealing with petty associates or the blood-soaked chaos he called routine. Now, he picked up the tempo and had already transitioned to another instrument. I opened my eyes quickly. My fingers nearly slipped as I struggled to keep up. "You''re so full of energy," I remarked, amused. But Killian didn''t hear me. He waspletely absorbed in the music, so much so that the world around him might as well have gone silent. The only sound that existed for him was the masterpiece unfolding beneath his fingertips. Momentster, the performance came to its quiet conclusion. Killian was slightly breathless as he turned to me, a spark of satisfaction and silent gratitude lighting his gaze. "That was incredible," he praised. The corners of my lips lifted into a small smile. "You yed beautifully, Killian. Have you been practicing a lottely?" "No, that was just luck,¡± he replied. "You''re the iconic one here." I felt a flush creep up my cheeks. Swallowing hard, I brushed aside the warmth hispliment stirred. I was a mother now -not the girl who once squealed with delight and rolled around on her bed in excitement. "There''s actually a reason I wanted to talk to you here," I said, shifting the topic. Killian straightened slightly, anticipating my next words. Tension flickered across his face, barely noticeable but present beneath the fa?ade of a seasoned tyrant. "I''ve been thinking about all the letters Mikael entrusted you with." Slowly, I lifted my hands from the piano, gathering Killian deserved his share of the truth. It would. "I loved Mikael very deeply." Sessfully unlocked! le. I had made a decision to face this, bit by bit. dark while I had heard his heart so clearly. My head bowed slightly. "He was the only one who ever made me feel truly alive. A light in the life of a girl who buried herself in textbooks and assignments back in those restless student years." Chapter 150. Second Chance "When we realized we were soulmates, I felt an overwhelming sense of joy." I looked straight ahead, too afraid to meet Killian''s eyes. "Even so," I continued lowly, "there was a part of me that Mikael never reached." "And Mikael knew that." I felt a subtle shift in the air around us, a delicate ripple that danced along my skin. This was the moment everything had been leading up to. My tongue grew heavy, unwilling to form the words that still lingered on the edge of my heart. Leia, my inner wolf, stirred gently, urging me to keep going, to speak the truth I had buried for too long. "I saw the way you looked at the twins." Tears began to well up in my eyes. Their warmth stung as they slid, one by one, down my cheeks. "I know how you treat my children... even though they''re not yours," I said, my voice trembling. My lips quivered. "I-" Suddenly, an arm pulled me into an embrace. The scent of forest and fresh rain filled my senses. Gods, how I must have missed this too. The hug tightened around me the moment I spoke his name, Killian, "I understand." Just those two words shattered something inside me. The sobs broke free. My tears spilled without restraint. My arms finally lifted, wrapping around Killian in return. I wept-deeply, openly-in his hold. His arms only tightened further, as though afraid I would vanish if he let go. "Thank you for loving someone like me, Ruby." His voice was raw, cracking under the weight of pain and longing. We both knew this had never been easy. A tragedy had torn us apart, leaving us here-where we were no longer who we had been, yet still drawn together. This wasn''t a sad ending. Not really. I wiped at my wet eyelids as his hold slowly loosened, though my tears hadn''t stopped flowing. "I-I don''t know what to do with all these feelings," I said, smiling through my tears. "Part of me is still mourning Mikael. But for you, I¡ª¡± Killian leaned forward and gently bumped his forehead against mine. I let out a small startled sound at the sting of it. "Take it slow, okay?" With care, he sought permission with his eyes before brushing away a damp strand of hair from my temple. His crimson gaze, those eyes I had missed for so long held me captive in their intensity. We were only inches apart when Killian leaned in closer. "I''m so grateful to you, my love, for opening your heart to me again," he whispered, his voice as soft as velvet. He quickly wiped his own tears, and I couldn''t help butugh. Even now, this arrogant man was still clinging to the image of the fierce tyrant everyone in the kingdom feared. And yet here he was, adorably earnest as he began exining the room around us every little detail, as if making sure I understood exactly what this meant. "I swear I won''t take it for granted," he said. Our hands were still intertwined. The space between us continued to vanish. I couldn''t tell who moved first, but the next thing I knew, our lips met. It was a kiss filled with sincerity and love stirring the same heat and longing as when Killian had once imed me as his. The kiss ended as swiftly as it began. My heart pounded wildly, and I could tell his, this immortal man before me was doing the same. "You still taste the same," he whispered, his lips just a breath away from mine. "Even in a different body?" "Your soul hasn''t changed. That''s what truly matters." I never imed to understand the theories of reincarnation or rebirth. I''d always thought of it as a chance if a soul was capable to live better in another life. I never expected to regain all my memories, and certainly not to find myself here, once again, with the same man. "There''s something else I need to tell youter. I don''t want to keep anything from you,¡± he said easily, as if confessing a casual truth. "How noble of you," I teased, smiling. "You cry even harder when I leave you, don''t you?" He groaned and buried his face in the crook of my shoulder. His warm breath skimmed across my skin, sending a pleasant shiver through me. Chapter 150: Second Chance "My head needed to be knocked with something hard to wake up, darling." "Can''t say I disagree." We stayed longer than I had intended in that ce-but no longer at the pianist''s bench. I wasfortably nestled in hisp, while the king lounged like a contented tyrant on the long sofa, as if reiming his most treasured possession. My head rested in the curve of his neck, his fingers drawing gentle circles down my bare back. When Killian told me we were soulmates, I was stunned. It felt impossible- especially since I''d already been bound to another man. But it turned out Killian had been my second-chance mate long before, Mikael. I eyed him suspiciously as he told his story. Some parts felt vague, ambiguous. Still, I couldn''t just turn away. I had to ept all of it whether good or bad. Killian promised he''d exin everything in full when we met again. I didn''t press for more. Not tonight. For now, I just wanted to feel loved like this, even if only for a little while longer and despite the guilt slowly blooming in my chest. "Sleep, darling." Killian hummed softly into my ear. Bit by bit, his melody lulled me toward slumber. I tried to resist it, to stay awake just a little longer but in the end, it was futile. That night, after so long, I finally found my way back to this ce. Subscribed 0 Likes Chapter 151 Chapter 151: Between Us Chapter 151: Between Us Ruby''s POV "So, we''re going home today?" Anna puffed out her cheeks, arms crossed. Alice stood beside her, mimicking her posture. "We don''t want to. We still want to stay here," they said in a sulky tone. I gently stroked their heads, gazing at them tenderly. "Sweethearts, we''lle back again. But you both have school, you know," I reminded them. The twins finally lowered their heads in resignation. They nodded in reluctant agreement to go home. I felt a pang of sympathy seeing them like this. What I didn''t expect was how quickly Anna and Alice had grown attached to this ce, even though it had only been two days. Could it be that the building satisfied a child''s craving for imagination? I wasn''t entirely sure. While carrying Elias, I tried to keep their spirits up so they wouldn''t get upset. Fortunately, Killian was quick to step in, promising to take the twins on a tour of the magical market. Their moods lifted instantly. I couldn''t hold back a smile as I watched the heartwarming scene before me. Killian turned toward me. There was something in his crimson eyes that made my cheeks burn. I looked away, avoiding him and quickly got into the car. I could hear the amusedughter of that foolish king from a distance. This was going to be a very long ride home. Killian would be sitting next to me, and I knew full well it meant there would be no shortage of teasing remarks. That''s exactly what the man had promised, with that tone of his. I tried to push aside the shbacks ofst night in the piano room. Oh God, I was such a mess. I even ended up sitting on hisp! But the more I tried to push the memories away, the clearer they became. "Mom, your face is red," Alice blurted out. Anna turned her head at the sound of her twin''s voice. She tilted her head, analyzing me like a cool little scientist. "Hmm, Alice, you''re right. Are you sick, Mom?" Anna asked innocently. That only deepened the shade of pink spreading across my cheeks. Killian''s shoulders shook with silentughter as he sat beside me. I struggled to keep myself from smacking that bastard''s head. I shook my head and gave the girls a vague exnation suitable for their age. "No, sweetheart. It just feels a bit hot, that''s all," I said as an excuse. Anna and Alice exchanged nces. The quickest to catch my lie was Alice. Her lips jutted forward in a pout, her nose wrinkled in disapproval. I froze for a second, recognizing that familiar expression. "Ah, she looks just like her mom when she''s sulking," Killian whispered loud enough for everyone to hear. "Mom, you''re not telling the truth, are you?" Alice gave me a sharp, probing look. "Something''s wrong, I just know it. You must be sick for real!" "Is Alice right, Mom?" little Anna chimed in, her eyes soft and worried. Alice''s sensitivity caught me off guard, and in that moment, I decided to go along with her innocent suspicion. Her annoyance quickly melted into concern. She threw herself into my arms, followed closely by sweet Anna, who looked like she was about to cry. "You always do this, Mom. It''s okay to tell us how you''re really feeling." Alice tightened her grip around my waist, her little face pressing into my stomach. Her muffled sobs filled the space of the car. "We love you. That''s why, like Daddy always says you have to take care of yourself too," she whispered, her voice breaking slightly. Anna leaned into my arm, holding tight to her bunny plush. "We''ll tell Uncle Jayden to get you checked by a healer!" she dered with surprising resolve. "Yeah, I agree with Anna," Alice said firmly. The twins took turns voicing their worries, their tiny voices full of concern. My chest tightened, overflowing with love. I wrapped them both in my arms, nting soft kisses on their heads. "Thank you, my sweet girls." From the corner of my eye, I caught a glimpse of Killian''s expression. It was filled with that quiet warmth Mikael used to show when he''d secretly watch moments between a mother and her children. My heart fluttered again. Was it so wrong to want to feel that kind of love again? Chapter 151: Between Us The car rolled past the main gates that marked the boundary between the magical and non-magical realms. Killian had chosen not to use the portal this time, just so the twins could enjoy the ride a little longer. And it worked. Anna and Alice stayed wide awake the entire way. They were busy chattering, throwing out questions left and right, which Killian answered without missing a beat. Even thepletely random ones. My eyelids were growing heavier with every passing mile. I didn''t think I''dst this long. Killian must''ve noticed. He shifted closer. "Ruby, let me take Elias. Once he''s with me, you can rest your head on my shouldes I blinked a few times, trying to clear the haze of sleep. I shook my head, guilt tugging at me. He must be just as exhausted, especially after entertaining the twins nonstop. "It''s fine, Killian. I-" "Hey," he said, gently cutting me off. "I''m not tired. Not like you think. And I don''t mind." His arms opened to me, a patient smile resting on his lips. After some coaxing, I gave in and passed Elias over. The baby whined a little at first, but within minutes, Killian had him soothed him. Elias let out a tiny yawn and curled into Killian''s chest like he belonged there. I noticed his finger tremble slightly as it hovered near Elias''s cheek. He still hesitated, still thought his bloodstained hands weren''t worthy of holding something so pure. I reached over andid a hand on his shoulder, squeezing gently. "You''re doing great. Elias loves being in your care," I whispered. But his crimson eyes still flickered with doubt. I look at him with concern and, while the twins were still engrossed in their story, leaned in to press a soft kiss to his cheek. "I trust you." And after that, his hand finally settled on Elias''s cheek, lingering there with new confidence. Every now and then, he''d ce a gentle kiss on the baby''s pluffy face. Never in a thousand years would I have imagined the same ruthless tyrant from the stories falling apart so soft in his deep heart for a child. Maybe, as Ruby, I had bought too deeply into all those rumors. I felt a pang of guilt. My head found his shoulder. My eyes had closed minutes ago. I no longer had the strength to fight it. Drowsiness swept over me like a wave, dragging me down into a dreamless slumber. The voices around me faded into soft murmurs. I couldn''t make out what anyone was saying anymore. But just before darkness imed me fully, I heard one voice close to my ear. "I love you." *** The first thing I saw when I opened my eyes was the ceiling overhead. I pressed my fingers to the bridge of my nose, trying to pull together the fragments of my awareness. My eyes swept across the room, and recognition hit instantly. This was my bedroom. I sat up with a start. I must have been asleep for hours-long enough not to realize we''d already made it home. Panic fluttered in my chest as I searched for Elias, only to find him sleeping soundly in his crib. A deep breath of relief escaped my lips. Killian must have carried me inside. The thought made me wince. Surely someone had seen it. I could already hear the whispers starting among the Bloodmoon Pack. Half-truths, hot gossip. And what would Mikael''s family think? Coming home in another man''s arms, no matter how innocent the gesture, was bound to raise questions! I''ll exin to themter. Sighing, I ran my fingers through my tangled hair and stepped out to check on the twins. Anna and Alice were fast asleep in their room, the chaos of their sleeping positions a clear sign of how far they''d passed out. I tiptoed closer and gently adjusted their limbs so they''d rest morefortably. Anna mumbled something in her sleep, and I couldn''t help but smile when I caught the word "unicorn" slip from her lips. "What a lovely dream you must be having, little princess." I stroked Anna''s soft hair, then turned to do the same for Alice. My heart warmed at the sight of them. I quietly backed away and pulled the door shut with care, making sure not to disturb their dreams. ''Are you happy, Rosalyn?'' The unexpected question from my wolf, Leia, caught me off guard. I nced toward the doors of the twins'' room-and Chapter 151: Between Us mine, where Elias was sleeping. "Yes." ''Then ept the love that''s being offered to you'' ''Mikael wouldn''t want you stuck in sorrow'' ''I believe, if he were here, he would''ve chosen to share your heart with Killian if it meant you''d be happy'' Leia''s voice echoed in my mind. And as much as everything she said made sense still found myself tangled in grief from time to time. Mikael had been the one who healed every scar etched into my soul." I often wished I''d meet his reincarnation one day so I could thank Mikael and tell him that I loved him. I descended the stairs, ncing around the lower floor. The house was quiet. There was no sign of Killian. He had gone home. Part of me had hoped he''d still be here. Suprsingly, missed him already. I unlocked my phone and scrolled through the contact list. I wanted to send him a message. Leonidas had passed me his number earlier. And, foolish as he could be, I trusted him not to mess around with something like this. I was just about to type something when a notification popped up. My cheeks puffed slightly as I read the message from Killian: From: Killian You were sleeping so soundly, I didn''t want to wake you. The twins and Elias are all tucked in safe in their rooms. If you''re reading this, I hope you''ll reply. It''s starting to get boring here. I''m drowning in documents! Augh escaped me before I could stop it. Of course, a king could never truly escape paperwork. I could already picture the mountain of files and Leonidas beside him, nagging him to stay seated. I typed a reply, mixing a simple greeting with a few casual questions about his health. I knew he was still undergoing therapy. Leonidas had identally let that slip yesterday. Reading through my words, I hit send. Then I ced my phone aside and headed toward the kitchen, a quiet thought stirring inside me. Probably this second chance wasn''t so bad after all. Subscribed ruthless 152 Chapter 152: Propose? Killian''s POV "Your Majesty." I looked up wearily as another stack of documents was delivered by Sean. I immediately stubbed out my cigarette. If I hadn'' t, I might have thrown it onto the papers and let them burn. "Can''t I just catch my breath for a moment, Sean?" The younger man red. "You said that ten minutes ago, Your Majesty." "Why must you keep track of everything I say to you?" I grumbled in annoyance. "I''m not keeping track anymore. You''ve said that nearly all day" Sean snapped back. "Can''t those documents just review themselves?" Sean crossed his arms. Sometimes I forget how intimidating the little guy can be when he gets serious about his duties. I was starting to regret making him my secretary. "Believe me, Your Majesty. I would be the first to let that happen if it were possible." I restrained myself from rolling my eyes in an undignified manner. Sean raised two fingers, pointing them at me like a warning. "I''ll be watching you from here," he cautioned. "Fine, fine!" I ced my phone just out of reach. That rectangr device had be addicting. Not because of its features or anything it ordered to me, but because of the messages I often received from someone very special. Texting with Rosalyn was far more enjoyable than dealing with this endless nonsense. But I couldn''t do it too often. Rosalyn was just like m. Perhaps even burdened more heavily. She was a mother of three. I felt unworthy of constantly bothering her. Maybe I should suggest she hire a permanent nanny and help her find the best one. After all I didn''t want the twins raised by ipetent hands. "Maybe I should just go see her after this, I muttered to myself. Not a bad idea. But first, I had to wrestle the beast currently sprawled across my desk. With a sigh, I picked up a sheet of paper and started reading through it. The stress built up behind my eyes with every report. Some were well-written. Most were a disaster. My annoyance spiked. I was definitely going to review every staff member in this pce. If they couldn''t do their jobs properly, I wouldn''t hesitate to show them the door. Blood ties or not. Not long after, I caught a familiar scent wafting into the room. "Wow, tense much? Are we gearing up for war?" Leonidas teased brightly as he strolled in. I scrunched my nose in distaste as he made a beeline for Sean and leaned in for a kiss. Mischief sparkled in Leonidas'' eyes. I had to admit, it was nice seeing him back to his old self these days. Even if it meant enduring their daily disys of affection. And of course, my dear cousin loved getting under my skin. "Hey, love. Care to fill me in?" Sean set his pen down. "Ask your king. He''s been sulking like a child all day." "Oh really?" My brow twitched. "Oi! I am still in this fucking room!" "I don''t want to ask him," Leonidas whispered loudly, cupping one hand over his mouth for effect. "He looks like he might eat me alive. If I die, you''ll be a widow!" "Good. I''ll inherit your assets faster," Sean deadpanned. "LOVE! HOW COULD YOU SAY THAT? DON''T YOU LOVE ME ANYMORE?!" Leonidas copsed to the floor, resting his chin on Sean''s knees like a scolded puppy. His eyes shimmered with theatrical despair. "Say something!" Sessfully unlocked! Sean clenched his jaw and mmed the file shut. I was expecting something with ir. What I got instead was sappy romance. Sean cradled Leonidas'' face in his hands and kissed him deeply, without a care for who was watching. "Oi!" Chapter 152. Propose? I''d already shouted, but they ignored mepletely. Fine. Let them have their moment. Their payback woulde eventually. Sometimes, I wondered if I had any dignity left. Here I was, the sovereign ruler and yet reduced to the silent third wheel between two love-crazed wolves. Hour after hour slipped by. I turned to look out the window. The sky outside had already gone dark. Thunder rumbled fiercely across the horizon, asserting its dominance tonight to anyone daring enough to wander out into the storm. I rubbed my shoulders, tense from hours of work. All that damn paperwork was finally done. And in return, all I got was ate hour and dreadful weather. Would it be a bad idea to visit someone in the middle of a night like this? It felt like we''d just seen each other yesterday. But maybe she wouldn''t mind seeing my face again. I was rather charming easy on the eyes, if I do say so myself. Still, I probably needed to set that thought aside. There was an early council meeting tomorrow, and I would need more than just coffee to face a room full of hard-headed, arrogant nobles. "You could reschedule, Your Majesty,¡± Leonidas offered casually, as if reading my mind. "The rescheduling would sh with other appointments. Better to get it over with," I replied. I reached into my pocket and pulled out my phone. My chest warmed the moment I saw the photo of Ruby with her three children on the screen. Just seeing it made my shoulders feel a little lighter. I hadn''t even realized I''d been staring at it, lost in thought, until Leonidas'' voice cut through my daydream. "So," he began, "are you nning to propose to our Rosalyn?" "Is that a serious question?" I shot him a skeptical look. He let out a breath, folding his arms, his back resting against the side of my desk. "Don''t tell me you''re just nning to date her forever. You''re not exactly young anymore, Your Majesty." "That''s not it. I mean isn''t it too early?" Leonidas hummed and shrugged. "Just have the intention. You can do it when the time feels right." Marriage was never something I aspired to. I''d told myself that over and over again. But if it was Ruby Lucienne. Then maybe I''d changed my mindpletely. With her, and those three little ones beside her, this pce might finally lose its long- standing gloom. Subscribed ruthless 153 Chapter 153: Alpha''s Call Ruby''s POV "Hi, Mommy!" Alice burst into the house first, followed by Anna and their elementary school friend. "Hello, sweetheart. Did you have fun?" I bent down to their level and adjusted the cor of Anna''s dress, smiling at her little friend. The girl shyly returned my greeting. "We did it!" Anna nodded enthusiastically. That was the moment she began to tell me about their experience at the city y center. Anna''s friend''s mother had asked my permission to take the twins there for a fun day out. I thought it wouldn''t hurt to let them enjoy some time away from the pack''s territory. Things aren''t as segmented now as they were in past years. "Did you thank Aunt Ellen?" Anna and Alice nodded in unison. "YES!" "Good girls." I gently tapped their noses and led them into the family room. It was more spacious there, perfect for continuing their ytime. Kids are always like that. Teir world revolves around school, y, and sleep. I still get anxious seeing how fast they''re growing. It''s hard to let go. I brought out plenty of snacks for them. Just as I was about to return to work, an idea crossed my mind. I reached for my phone and aimed the camera at the twins and their friend. The shot turned out great. I immediately sent it to Killian, hoping he''d see it soon. I hadn''tmunicated with him sincest night. I had thought about calling him but was too afraid I''d be bothering him, so I held myself back. A few momentster, my phone rang, disying his name on the screen. I walked a fair distance away from the children before pressing the green button to answer the call. The line connected. "Hi. I saw the picture." I could hear the rasp and fatigue in his voice. "Killian, are you okay?" He chuckled on the other end. "Yeah, it''s just that a king''s schedule is a bit more abnormal than that of ordinary people." I winced at the thought of the entire scene. I could hear Leonidas''s voice in the background, along with several others I didn''t recognize. "Make time to rest. Without the King, the whole ce would fall apart," I advised him gently. "How thoughtful. I wish you were here." I felt my cheeks flush instantly. I cleared my throat and shifted awkwardly in ce. Killian only chuckled, waiting for my response. "I''m sure you''re blushing," he teased. I red, even though the culprit wasn''t in sight. "I am not!" "Lying isn''t your strong suit, darling. Find another passion." The conversation drifted into yful teasing and traded jokes. I had worried that I might be disturbing him, but Killian reassured me he had a bit of free time. The people around him were merely carrying out orders, as he put it-"irresponsible shrimp-brainedckeys." I scolded him to watch his words-every head in that room could clearly hear him. Killian didn''t care one bit. In fact, he doubled down with even more grumbling. The call ended when it was time for the Lycan King to resume his meeting. With a reluctant heart, I let him go and ended the call first. I leaned against the wall, my hand resting on my chest. A pleasant flutter pulsed beneath my palm, just like it always did when I thought of Killian-or once, Mikael. It felt strange, how quickly I''d fallen into the rhythm of Killian''s affection. Especially given how messy our shared history had been-like the kind of history only written by victors. I pressed a hand to my forehead, reminding my Sessfully unlocked! eling. Mikael had supported me to keep loving, just as my heart would always carry a piace for him Just as I was about to put away my phone, a visitor came by. For a split second, I hoped it was Killian only for that hope to break when I saw the new Beta standing at the door. I kept my expression warm as I greeted him. "Hi, Alex. Is there something you need?" I asked. Chapter 153: Alpha''s Call "Sorry to bother you, Lady Torrance. The Alpha has summoned you to the Den." "Is it urgent, Beta?" Alex shook his head. "I''m not sure. He simply asked me to bring you to him." "Ah, alright. Just give me a moment." I called out into the family room, telling the twins and their friend not to y outside while I was gone. After closing the door, I nodded at Alex and followed him to meet Alpha Jayden. This wasn''t the first time he had summoned me. But for some reason, this one felt different from the usual calls. A waye of anxiety washed over me, and cold sweat dampened my palms. Whatever this was about, I hoped it wasn''t something bad. When we arrived at the Den, Jayden was in the middle of a conversation with someone. He raised a hand in a gesture that told me to wait for a moment. Alex had already left, his taskplete. It wasn''t long before Jayden''s conversation with his guest came to an end. "Rosalyn. Come in," he said. I obeyed and greeted him politely. Jayden waved his hand dismissively. I chuckled as he made a remark about how I was still acting so formal and stiff like a dried rag. "Seriously, how long are you going to keep up this soldier attitude?" Jayden grumbled. I took a seat on the sofa across from him, the corner of my lips twitching in amusement. "It''s hard to change, Alpha. After all, you''re the leader of this pack." Jayden made a face. "That title is so outdated, Rosalyn. You''re family. Familiarity shoulde first." I always felt at peace whenever Jayden reminded me that I was more than just his sister-inw. He and everyone in this pack had treated me with nothing but kindness. They had weed me with open arms, even when my parents, who were lone wolves, had been so easily cast aside. "Anyway, there''s a topic I want to talk to about." you The atmosphere shifted into something slightly more serious. Jayden set down his teacup and looked directly at me. ¡°Are you in a rtionship again with Killian Rudwick?" Subscribed ruthless 154 Chapter 154: Blessing Ruby''s POV "You don''t need to be so tense, kid. I just want to make sure of something." Jayden called me kid. He rarely did that only when he wanted to offer a sense offort, especially when one of his pack members was troubled or under pressure. That was something an Alpha could do. "He told me everything," he said. My head snapped up, and my body stiffened on the spot. I never expected Killian to do that. Why would he? Leia''s voice echoed in my head, saying that it was a leader''s attempt to properly reim his mate. It had been a good move, approaching Jayden as the representative of myte husband, and also as the Alpha of the pack I now belonged to. "So, he told you about Mikael''s will?" I asked cautiously. Jayden nodded. "Yes, he did." I fell silent, my shoulders slumping. I closed my eyes, feeling that familiar ache spreading once again. Mikael would always have a ce in my heart. That was undeniable. Even Killian knew that. He had epted it, because Mikael had been a worthy mate and a good father to his three children. Jayden wasn''t much different. He too still carried the raw wound of losing Mikael in that bloody battlefield. No one could me him for falling into depression after losing so many members of his pack, including his own brother. "I called you here not just because of my brother," he added gently. I opened my eyes. "If it''s not about Mikael, then who? I could understand if you were angry that Killian had the audacity to approach me, especially with that lette-" "No. This is abou "Me?" "Yes," he sighed, rubbing his face. "I didn''t expect Killian''s level of bastardry to surpass the average. What he did to you, back when you were Ruby, is almost unforgivable. I don''t care if it was due to maniption or anything else." My heart dropped. So, Jayden already knew that I was Ruby''s reincarnation. Killian had really gone this far. I clenched both my hands, sweat dampening my palms. "I''ve never had a problem with who you choose to spend your life with next, Rosalyn." A smile formed on Jayden''s face. "I''d be happy if you could once again have a mate who can protect you and love you and your family. But is he truly the one you''ve chosen?" "Have youpletely forgiven him?" Jayden''s question echoed in my mind. After all the heartfelt conversations and soul-deep exchanges, I knew the soul bond was singing again for Killian. It wanted to wee him back into the connection and be bound once more. In our first life, I had never felt that way about him. And apparently, neither had Killian. He had still been heavily influenced by dark magic then. But then there was that one part, left me both furious and in tears because Killian had willingly offered half of his immortal life just so I could be reincarnated. Amid his own chaos, he still found it in him to pray for me, every single day without fail. Leonidas had said the same thing about his king. It made me feel that his regret was genuine more than enough to show how much he wished to make amends for his past. I don''t think Killian has changed into someone new. He is still the Killian I know. But for those he holds dear, he would protect them to hisst breath. As for love and affection, Killian still sometimes struggles with those emotions. I can see that in him, even though he''s far more expressive now, especially around the children. All of that I think it''s already more than enough proof. My heart chose him too. "Yes." Jayden stared at me for a long moment. There was a flicker of understanding in his gaze. At first, I feared this would be a problem but instead, Jayden did the opposite. He straightened up, taking the posture of an Alpha. As a member of his pack, I instinctively lowered my gaze under his authority. "Yourte family entrusted you to me," he began and live frit this chori you''re part of this pack. And because of that, Im Sessfully unlocked! He tapped his fingers on the arm of his chair, as if weighing the situation. Whether or not you''re still my sister-inw, "I don''t care if he''s a king or not. If he harms my people, he''ll answer for it," he growled at the end. "But if Killian proves himself worthy to be by your side again, then the choice is yours, Rosalyn." Chapter 154: Blessing Tears gathered at the corners of my eyes. I looked at the man who had been so kind to me all this time, like an older brother who dearly loved his younger sister. "Will you still see me as your little sister even if Killianes back to im me as his mate?" I asked through sobs. Jayden scoffed, turning his gaze away to hide the same sadness in his own eyes. "What a silly question, kid. Of course, you''ll always be our youngest." A smile bloomed on my face again. It didn''t take long for me to cross the space between us and throw my arms around him. To my surprise, Jayden hugged me tightly. His hand rubbed gently along my back, Whispering that no matter what happened, I would always belong to this pack. That included the twins, and Elias too. "Stop thinking you''re an outsider here, Rosalyn." Jayden patted my shoulder. "Don''t hesitate toe to me if you ever need advice. That''s what family is for." "I know your love for my brother will always have a ce in your heart, and thank you for that. But it''s time you move forward. We still have a long way to go in this life," he added gently. "Call Killian here and make him do it properly if he wants to propose to you. That stupid idiot." Iughed through my tears. The burden in my chest slowly began to lift. I had always been afraid that Jayden would oppose this would see me as a traitor to the pack. But instead, he gave me the support I never expected. "Thank you, Alpha," I whispered. "Of course, kid. For you the little sun of this pack." Subscribed ruthless 155 Chapter 155: She said Yes! Killian''s POV "Your Majesty, please calm yourself." I could barely hear anything Sean was saying. Leonidas was also doing his best to persuade me to stay calm, repeatedly straightening my clothes. Nervousness filled me to the point that it was hard to think clearly. Whichever god or goddess might be listening this time. Please, just let everything go smoothly. "I can''t believe you''re getting married soon," Leonidas said with a grin. "I mean, it''s just the engagement for now. But still, it''s getting close." "I''m going to face Jayden. Again. Feels like I''m heading straight into the apocalypse," I grumbled. "He''ll ept you. It''s just that Rosalyn has always been like a sister to him, even before she was with Mikael. So, he''s only doing what any older brother would," Leonidas exined, patting my shoulder repeatedly. "Will Rosalyn ept me too?" Rejection was never in my vocabry, except from one person who once did. It was always Ruby Lucienne. But that was before we decided to mend things as friends and quickly began to rebuild our broken soul connection. I''m grateful that the twins and Elias arefortable with me. It doesn''t matter if they don''t see me as their father yet. Mikael will always be their first. And I will respect that. If one day they choose to call me ''father'', I would dly ept it. I also want to invite them to live at the pce, to build a real family in Sundrench. They are free to roam the world as long as they return to the ce they belong. I will amodate all their needs and be the first to offer help in their times of trouble. We may not share blood, but you don''t need biological ties to be a true family. That is the future I wish for. I will no longer be alone. The cold days behind me will finally pass. Leonidas, my cousin, has also found a worthy partner after being rejected by one woman. Fate can be both bitter and sweet at once. Should I be grateful now? Yes, I think I should. "Are you ready?" he asked. I turned to Leonidas. A genuine smile bloomed on my lips. I gave a nod, and he wrapped an arm around my shoulder as we walked out of my chamber, with Sean by his side. The portal opened before us. A swirling vortex of glowing blue light spun in ce, waiting to be crossed. My rtives lined up behind me, while Leonidas stood beside me as a Beta should. I took a deep breath and stepped through. The moment we arrived, we were greeted by the gathering of the Blood Moon Pack. As the Alpha, Jayden was already in his rightful ce, apanied by his new Beta, Alex. Not far from my line of sight, Rosalyn stood with Luna Karina, the twins by her side. Elias remained cradled in Rosalyn''s arms. I couldn''t help but smile when I caught the woman looking in my direction. "Wee to the Blood Moon Pack." Jayden''s voice thundered across the entire field. "We wee you, King of the Lycans, of the Sundrench Kingdom, to our humblend," he dered. I stepped forward. "Thank you for receiving us, Alpha Jayden. I stand here today to sincerely express my intention to propose to your sister, Rosalyn Torrance, and to wee her and her entire family into the Kingdom of Sundrench." A wave of cheers erupted across the Blood Moon Pack. That alone signaled that Alpha Jayden hadn''t made any exclusive announcement about the proposal beforehand. And now, I had publicly dered not only my proposal, but my intent to ept her family as well. "The decision of this proposal lies entirely in the hands of the woman being proposed to." Jayden turned toward Rosalyn. His gaze softened briefly as it met hers. "I hope you are able to respect a woman''s decision, Your Majesty." "Understood." I bowed slightly as a gesture of respect, then stepped out of the main line to approach Rosalyn among the group of female wolves. She had already handed Elias over to Luna Karina The twins heamed beside their mother. I gave the two of them a small smile, which they returned with enthusia Sessfully unlocked! Rosalyn looked like she was about to cry even beiure i beyan. That woman has always been the same, then and now. Sentimental. But that was one of the reasons I fell in love with her. She was always herself around me, never pretending to be anything else. Only a few steps separated us now. The other women had already made way. I knelt before Rosalyn. With my head bowed low, I began to express my intentions to her. Chapter 155: She said Yes! "Rosalyn Torrance. You are the woman I''ve always dreamed of having by my side. Past, present, and future. It has always been about you." Lifting my head, I extended my hand toward her. "I want us to be united as true mates, as we were destined to be. And I vow to embrace your three children as my own." "Will you marry me, Rosalyn Torrance?" For a moment, the entire field fell silent, as if the world held its breath. The twins created a bit of a stir, voicing their encouragement for their mother to respond. My heart pounded in anticipation. The sum of Elysian already echoed in my head, eager to receive a signal from Rosalyn''s wolf. "Yes. I want to marry you." A rush of joy surged in my chest. Cheers erupted all around us in celebration. I pressed a kiss to the back of her hand before stepping forward to embrace her. Her joyful sobs echoed in my ears. "Thank you, Rosalyn." Sheughed through her tears. "So, it''s not Ruby anymore?" "I suppose they''re both the same now, love." Weughed together in our little bubble of happiness. The twins came running toward us, throwing their arms around our waists. "Does this mean you''ll be our dad now, Uncle Killian?" Anna asked innocently. "Of course he will!" Alice eximed. I loosened the embrace and bent down to meet them at eye level. My expression softened as I looked at their faces. "I would be honored to be your father. But remember, Mikael will always be your first dad." I gently tapped each of their chests with my finger. "He''ll always be right here, watching over you." The twins immediately threw themselves into my arms, and I hugged them back with all the love I had. Just then, my eyes met Jayden''s across the field. A silent message passed between us. "Take care of her." I gave him a firm nod. "Always." ruthless 156 Chapter 156: A Wedding Day Killian''s POV The castle courtyard had never looked this bright. Summer had arrived early, wrapping ournds in golden light and the scent of wild roses. The courtyard was filled withughter, ribbons strung between tall pirs, and wolves in their finest forms; humans and beasts mingled in joy. Not only that- various other races hade to witness this special day. Today, I marry Rosalyn. My eternal love. And for the first time in a long while, I do not feel the weight of my crown. I stood in the vast garden, beneath the old ironwood tree where generations of my family once howled their vows to the moon. But there would be no howling ritual today. Too many of our kin had passed, and many had left no heirs behind. Only two pureblood lines remain, mine and Leonidas''s. "We''re about to be married!" Elysian shouted. I tried to keep my expression steady at his enthusiasm. "Anyone can see it, El. We''ve gotten our mates back," I replied. "I''m d you''re not being foolish this time." Augh escaped my lips. "Partly thanks to you, my wolf. A little change doesn''t seem so bad after all." Momentster, Rosalyn appeared just as the sun climbed higher into the sky, her arm gently linked with Jayde, Alpha of the Bloodmoon Pack and her escort for the day. She wore a soft blue gown, her hair braided with white jasmine. Her beautiful hazel eyes locked onto mine. "Our mate is so beautiful!" Elysian eximed. I couldn''t disagree. Joy swelled within me, and all I wanted was to reach out to her. Rosalyn''s eyes shimmered with tears as Jayde offeredfort during their slow walk to the altar. And then came the sound of tiny footsteps behind her. Anna and Alice, her seven-year-old twin daughters, darted ahead of her, flower crowns askew, their small fists gripping baskets of petals. Anna was focused, determined to scatter each petal with precision. Meanwhile, Alice giggled wildly, tossing petals into the air without restraint. I couldn''t hide my delight at their antics. Rosalyn smiled at me as she reached the altar. "They insisted on doing it themselves." "I wouldn''t have it any other way," I said softly. She stepped beside me, and for a moment, the world seemed to pause. There were no shadows of the past. Only the warmth we had built between us over the seasons; the fireside talks, her steady hands through winter, my vow to protect not just her but also her daughters as if they were my own. It meant we had left the darkness behind and chosen to step into the future together. Is this what you hoped to see, Mikael? The elder priest delivered his blessing in the ancient tongue. The entire gathering stood in reverent silence, bearing witness to the sacred rite. "With all my soul, I vow to love you and protect you until the end of time, Rosalyn Rudwick." Rosalyn answered the vow with a tearful smile. "I ept this vow. May our love be eternal, now and forever." The marriage bond was finally sealed with a kiss. Cheers erupted, soaring into the twilight sky. "LONG LIVE THE KING AND QUEEN OF SUNDRENCH!" "May you live happily ever after!" "Congrattions, Your Majesties!" The celebration carried onte into the night. The twins flitted from one dancer to another, half-drunk on honey cake and attention. I caught Anna carefully counting how many bites she could sneak before her sister noticed. Meanwhile, Alice tried unsessfully to teach a very confused Omega how to curtsy like a proper princess. Rosalyn danced only once and it was with me. "I think they''ve taken over the event," she whispered, watching the girls twirl beneath the ring ofnterns. "I don''t mind. I wouldn''t even be surprised if one day they tried to im my throne," I said, amused. "Please don''t let that ever happen, Killian." She snorted, her hand resting atop mine. "I''m already overwhelmed managing Chapter 156 A Wedding Day their miniature versions." Later, we slipped away to the quieter part of the stables. The staff had transformed our chamber with more flowers than I thought existed in the entire region. There were candles, silk linens. Even a carved wooden cradle tucked in the corner for Elias. "He''s staying with Karina tonight," Rosalyn said as she lifted the cradle''s cover. "She insisted." "So, it''s just the two of us tonight?" Rosalyn''s cheeks flushed pink. "It seems so." "Oh,e on. You''ve got to be clearer than that. Use your words, queen." She turned to me, masterfully dodging the subject. "I didn''t think I''d ever do this again. Get married. Be part of something new." "This isn''t something new," I said, stepping closer. "This is ours. And it''s only just beginning." The next morning, sunlight streamed through the window like a blessing. Elias was up early his soft cries echoed down the hallway, and Karina brought him in, bundled in a green knitted nket. I took him from her arms without hesitation. His eyes sparkled, full of curiosity. Rosalyn appeared behind me, half-asleep, her hair tousled, glowing. "Good morning, little prince," I whispered, and Elias gave a contented snore. Rosalyn leaned against my shoulder, her hand stroking his cheek. "He likes you." "Of course he does," I said with unapologetic pride. "He''s got good instincts." A knock came just as I kissed the top of his head. Anna''s voice called from beyond the door. "Can wee in now? Please?" "Only if you bring "We did!" Alice chimed in. "We really did!" "We did!" Alice cast," I replied teasingly. The door creaked open, and the twins entered with a tray clearly prepared by someone else, but with their own personal touch. A single pancake each, dusted with sugar and a daisy ced in the center. "For the King," Anna said proudly. "For Daddy," Alice corrected. I froze for a moment at the word that slipped from Alice''s lips. They called me Daddy? Rosalyn''s hand found mine as I sat down, Elias nestling his tiny fingers around my arm. My heart swelled with the love of this small family. Perhaps this was what my parents, in some long-ago life, meant when they spoke of love and family. A concept I had once trampled underfoot. But now I knew. It was more than just balm for a battered soul. I wouldn''t trade this for anything in the world. "Yes, sweetheart. Your dad. Now, let''s taste these famous pancakes of yours." The kingdom of Sundrench had finally gotten its sun back. Subscribed 0 Likes ruthless 157 Epilogue Killian''s POV The wind on the hill cammed the scent ofvender and rain drenched grass, and for anvament, everything fall t council meetings, threats, and especially whispers in the dark that often cruded my mind of the stared at blond that sometimes surged without warning Only the sound of Rosslyn''eughter, sweet and melodic, dofted behind me I turned to look at her he was barefoot in the garden, one hand resting gently on the curve of her badly She moved me slowly these days. Honestly, she was glowing even more than before, her belly beginning to swell agen Twins again i couldn''t quite believe it "Are you staring at me, Your Majesty?" she teased, raising an eyebron "I always do" I replied, walking toward her "Hard not to, when ites to you" "So cheesy She rolled her eyes, but smiled as I helped her down onto the stone bench beneath the arbor i could feet a vick, one of the babies stirred beneath her skin. "Well, someone''s taking after their sisters, Rosalyn chuckled "They''re already little warriors Don''t you think? "I''m hoping at least one of them inherits your gentle nature, love, I can''t imagine dealing with another miniature version of me," I winced. "But the healer said we''re having twin boys," she said innocently. I groaned, rubbing my face. "It''s going to be a nightmare." "Oh, rx," she said soothingly, running her hand down my arm. "You''ve already got the twins on your side. They''ll be the perfect match for the new ones someday." Ah, of course. Anna and Alice were seventeen now. Sharp, fearless, and more intelligent than half the members of my court. Alice was off studying diplomacy in the eastern territories. Anna had taken tobat training like she was born with a sword in her hand. She wanted to lead a scout unit. I told her she should start by learning patience. She told me I needed to stop underestimating her. And Elias, oh gods, the youngest. He was twelve now and already taller than some of the pce guards. He inherited much of his mother''s temperament, even with his father Mikael''s features. Elias was gentle, curious, and a touch stubborn. He loved science more than anything. Sundrench''s environment suited him perfectly. It was the right choice to stay away from the modern world. Elias had thrived in the kingdom. Justst week, he tamed a wyvern hatchling and tried to keep it in his room. Rosalyn nearly fainted. I couldn''t help butugh at the memory. Elias was a wonder of a child with all his peculiarities. He was mine in every way that mattered. Mikael was probably up there in the heavens, scratching his head over how wildly different his children had turned out. "Luna Karina and Alpha Jayden still insist they''ll win the bet, Rosalyn said gently, her hand stroking mine over her belly.* But you have nothing to worry about. I''m sure we''ll be the winners." "Wouldn''t surprise me if they did win. They do share one brain," I snorted. "All I really hope is that these two inherit your calm." Sheughed. Truly, how this woman only grew more beautiful with time, only the gods could know. "You mean the calm! pretended to have while raising warrior children and ruling a kingdom with a brooding husband?" "Brooding? I prefer ''purposefully contemtive." She rested her head on my shoulder. "You''ve grown softer. Where''s my fierce Lycan king gone?" "Careful not to let the elders hear that." "I''m serious," she said, eyes closed. "You were all stone and shadow when we first met. And now, look at you." I looked at the gardens we built together, the towers we rebuilt, all the peace that had endured for nearly a decade under our reign, and the family that had grown wild and strong around us. "I had a reason to change," I said. "Can you tell me what it was?" "It was you." Rosalyn looked up at me with pure joy, immediately nting a kiss on my cheek and then my lips. I couldn''t stop the fresh wave of love that bloomed in my chest. If the twins had been here, they would''ve dramatically pulled out imaginary buckets Epilogue and pretended to gag Mischievous little devils. Like many evenings over the past years, after the sun had set and the bonfires were lit across the castle courtyard, we had dinner together under a sky scattered with stars. Alice had returned home for the equinox festival, and the girls couldn''t stop teasing each other Elias tried to act mature around them but gave up halfway, dissolving intoughter with both of them Rosalyn watched them with a smile that peeled years off her face. She caught my gaze from across the table "Still think you''re not fit to be a father?" she asked with a teasing grin "I think I''ve be quite the expert, actually." Elias looked up. "Is that why we''re having more babies?" The table fellpletely silent. Anna spat out her drink. Alice burst outughing so hard she nearly fell off her chair Rosalyn shook her head. "Elias-^ "I heard you talking to the healer," he said, a smug smile ying on his lips. "And also, I saw the baby cradle in your room" I stared at him, feigning defeat. "We''ve raised a spy, my love." "A very sweet spy," she said. "And dangerous." "Just the way we raise them." Later, when the children were asleep and the night had grown deep, Iy beside Rosalyn in our bed, her back pressed against my chest, my hand resting gently on our unborn children. Moments like these made everything feel more real, more alive. "Did you ever imagine it would be like this?" I asked. "I always hoped," she said softly. "Even when I felt uncertain. Even when I thought survival was the best I could do. And then you came so bold, and yet so gentle, to tend wounds I never thought could heal. My heart and soul..." I kissed the back of her neck. "And I always will. For you, my love." Twasn''t wrong to give you a second chance, Killian. You''ve proven yourself far beyond anything I ever expected." I shook my head. "That''s only because you were the best teacher. I healed because of you, too." Rosalyn turned, shifting carefully to face me. Her hair spilled across the pillow, streaks of silver glinting in the dark. I loved every line on her face, every mark from the years we had weathered together. "You always ask me what I want, don''t you?" she whispered. "I don''t want a legacy. I don''t care if history remembers us." I tilted her chin gently. "Then what do you want?" "You. The children. Our family. Days where we can simply be together. I never minded the idea of living forever, as long as it was with you," Rosalyn said, her eyes soft and steady. "Then we''ve already won." This is love. Not the pursuit of some perfect ending but these quiet, unshaken days of peace. I believe I can face anything with her. And the kingdom will change. Time will move forward. However, her hand will always be in mine, and that is more than enough. "I love you, Killian Rudwick." "Too, my heart." Subscribed Chapter 158 Chapter 158 Chapter 158 Killian''s POV "Will Ruby hate me when she sees this?" It was the first thing that slipped from my lips. The man beneath my boot groaned in pain, drool and blood mixing as they dripped from his mouth. I pressed harder on his throat. The crunch of bones beneath my heel sang like melody to my ears. "Fear, hatred, or sorrow? Ah, no, that''s not like her. My Ruby knows me better than anyone. She''ll understand. A man must do what''s necessary when ites to protecting his family," I said, with a brightness in my tone that didn''t reach my eyes. ¡°P-please... please! Have mercy-ACKK!!" "Tsk. How bold of you. I don''t recall giving you permission to speak,¡± I grumbled, twisting my foot, drawing another tortured gasp. "Tell me, boy. Did you think this through before stepping into my territory? Do you even know who you''re dealing with?" My eyes glowing crimson locked onto his. "Your years are barely a scratchpared to mine. I''ve outlived empires, buried many leaders, and squashed roaches like you who dreamed of ying a monarch." "For the love of all seven hells, you should''ve lived your short, fragile life in peace, boy." The man lying bruised and pitiful on the basement floor couldn''t have been older than thirty. To me, he was no more than a brat of three who should''ve been chasing butterflies in the garden, not groveling under my feet. And yet, this roach had dared to disguise himself and attempt to harm my youngest son, Elias. My lovely wife would have been livid. As gentle and loving as she is, Ruby turns into something fierce when ites to our children. Believe it or not, she''s a woman made of kindness but show her a threat to her pups, and she''ll bare her fangs, unsheathe her ws, and tear that threat to pieces. Luckily for him, she was wrapped in her little world of joyful that day. She had stayed behind to help Elias with his studies, while this insect was handled before he could crawl any closer. What disturbed me more than his crime was his identity. This man, Aztes was one of Ruby''s acquaintances from the Sundrench region. They spoke often, exchanged thoughts about business in the modern human world. It had taken me months to tame the me of jealousy each time she connected with other men. knew better than to restrain her freedom. It would''ve only poisoned our bond. No. I''ve worked hard to ensure she no longer sees me as a ruthless tyrant. At least not in her eyes. As for everyone else? They can rot. Nevertheless, betrayal has a way of arriving uninvited. Aztes, as it turned out, had been sent by those I once called kin. They are the very family I cast out from Sundrench. Instead of reflecting on their rebellion, they saw my mercy as disgrace. Shameless creatures. Listening to Leonidas had been a wise move. He''s the only one in that ursed bloodline who still understands the meaning of loyalty. I don''t regret offering him the path to immortality. It was well-earned. And I have no interest in recing him with yet another fool when the timees. "My Queen cared for you, Aztes." My jaw tightened at the mere thought of Ruby crying, her heart shattered by the betrayal of someone she had weed as a friend She loved your son, just as she loves the little wolf pups we foster in the Sanctuary. That is who she is pure and overflowing withpassion. But you Aztes. Look what you''ve done!" Rage surged through me like hatred in my veins. "Ungrateful bastard." My foot mmed into his ribs. His body lifted off the ground, crashing into the stone wall like a discarded rag doll. The sound of the impact, followed by his helpless sobs, echoed through the chamber like the chorus of a dying hymn. "I should end you here right now." My voice dropped into a deep growl. "What a blessing you are because I''ve left your fate to Ruby''s mercy not mine." I cast him one final nce coldly, my lips curled in disgust before turning on my heel and walking away. "Chain him. Let his wounds fester." "As you The soldiers bowed in perfect unison. They moved to carry out the order. Two others followed behind me assigned to escort me out of the dungeon. I offered the wardens a curt wave as they gave their final salute. I didn''t want anyone else to follow me, except my Beta. "Is it truly wise to inform your wife, Your Majesty?" Leonidas walked at my side. "She''ll be heartbroken. Especially knowing it was you who left the punishment in her hands." "It would be far more painful if she heard it from someone else, Beta.¡± My eyes stayed locked on the path ahead. The scent of summer drifted in the air, warm sunlight bathing thends of Sundrench in golden light. In the distance, the hum of life stirred across the fertile earth. ¡°She''s my wife. A queen of a kingdom known for its might. Don''t mistake her grace for weakness. You, of all people, should know better she''s proven that to you more than once,¡± I stated firmly. "My apologies, Your Majesty. I meant no disrespect. I only spoke out of concern for her," Leonidas replied hurriedly, the usual spark of humor gone from his tone. "I know. And I respect that." A few momentster, we arrived at the pce. The Head Steward informed me that Ruby had returned from her journey. Leonidas split off toward the -barracks, while I was there nowhere else, I wanted to be than with her. The first thing Ruby gave me was a smile as I found her in the King and Queen''s chambers. Her soft pink lips brushed against my cheek in greeting, and I answered with a kissced in endless longing. "I missed you," I murmured. Sheughed, and just like that, the gloom inside me began to fade. "I was only gone for two days, Killian." "And that felt no different than two years." ¡°Oh, please. You''re impossible,¡± Ruby rolled her eyes, letting out a squeal as I found the spot that always made her squirm. Hey! That tickles! Td love nothing more than to ruin you in our bed,¡± I teased, my eyes scanned her fitures. ¡°However, seeing how exhausted you must be and they carrying our child," Ipaused on purpose, a slow grin forming as the softest blush crept up her cheekbones. "Well, I''ll behave. For now." Ruby shot me a re. ¡°You pervert! Don''t you have work to do? Aren''t kings supposed to be busy?" ¡°Hm. Trying to get rid of me already?¡± She pouted in mock annoyance, and I slid an arm gently around her, pulling her close. I kissed the crown of her head, closing my eyes as the familiar scent of yuzu and rose filled my senses. ¡°My love,¡± I began softly, ¡°I wish I were here just to spoil you or to sweet-talk you. But there''s something important we need to talk about. Do you mind? The shift in my tone made Ruby turn to face me. Her yful expression faded, reced by seriousness. "Is something wrong?" she asked with concern. ¡°I''m afraid you''re not going to like what I have to say." 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