Chapter One: Rejected
“Silence!!!!” Elder Thorne’s booming voice echoed through the council chamber, calling the meeting to order. I stood before the esteemed elders, my heart racing with a mix of emotions. Today was the day I would officially announce my decision to hand over my position as the future alpha of the pack to my mate, Kael Darkhaven. The room fell silent, the weight of tradition and expectation palpable. I took a deep breath, my eyes scanning the faces of the elders, searching for any sign of dissent or disapproval. “Aria, daughter of the pack,” Elder Thorne began, his voice grave, “You have called this meeting to discuss your decision to relinquish your title as alpha. Tell us, why do you feel it is necessary to handover your inheritance to your mate?” I swallowed hard, my voice steady as I began to speak. “Elder Thorne, respected elders, my father had led this pack for many years before his death, and I am proud of his accomplishments. However, I don’t think I can continue in his legacy, I’m only but a young lady who isn’t really ready to take on this new role as alpha. Kael Darkhaven, my mate, is strong, capable, and worthy of leading our pack into a prosperous future.” The room remained silent, the elders’ faces unreadable. I braced myself for their reaction, knowing that not everyone would agree with my decision. Elder Oakley’s piercing gaze bore into me. “Aria, we understand your words, but we need to know - are you giving the title to Kael Darkhaven out of love and loyalty for him, or out of your own thoughts for the people and yourself?” I hesitated, my mind racing. How could I admit the truth—that I was torn between proving my love to Kael and my duty to the pack? That I was sacrificing my own power and position for what I thought was the greater good? I stuttered, trying to find the right words. “E-Elder Oakley, I-I believe Kael is the best choice for the pack. He’s strong, capable, and has the pack’s interests at heart.” Elder Oakley’s expression remained skeptical. “That may be true, Aria, but we need to know that your decision comes from a place of selflessness, not personal gain or bias.” I took a deep breath and forced myself to continue. “I understand, Elder Oakley. And I assure you all, my decision is for the good of the pack. I believe Kael will lead us into a prosperous future, and I am willing to step aside to ensure that happens. Besides, I will become his Luna and rule by his side.” The elders exchanged skeptical glances, but I could see the faintest glimmer of understanding in their eyes. I knew I had to convince them, no matter what my own fears and uncertainties were. For the sake of the pack and my love, I had to make this work. Elder Lyra, my aunt, spoke up, her voice gentle but firm. “Aria, remember that once your decision is approved by this court and the coronation is done, there’s no going back. You’ll be handing over the alpha title and becoming Kael’s luna. Are you certain you’re ready for this?” I nodded, trying to appear more confident than I felt. “I know, Aunt Lyra. I’ve thought this through. I’m ready to step aside and support Kael as alpha. I trust him to lead our pack well.” Elder Lyra’s eyes searched mine, as if looking for any sign of doubt or hesitation. After a moment, she nodded. “Very well, Aria. We’ll put it to a vote. Elders, let us decide.” The elders began to discuss and debate, their voices hushed but intense. I stood before them, my heart pounding in my chest, as they decided my fate and the fate of our pack. The elders voted, their faces solemn as they cast their decision. Elder Thorne spoke up, his voice firm. “Aria Blackwood, by a majority vote, your decision to step aside as alpha and appoint Kael Darkhaven as your successor is accepted.” I felt a mix of emotions: relief, anxiety, and a hint of sadness. I had expected this outcome, but it still felt surreal. Elder Lyra approached me, a small, intricately carved box in her hands. “Aria, as is tradition, we present you with this token of our appreciation for your act of courage and love for the pack. May it serve as a reminder of your strength and wisdom.” I accepted the box, opening it to reveal a beautiful silver pendant adorned with a small, glowing moonstone. I felt a lump form in my throat as I looked up at my aunt, my eyes prickling with tears. “Thank you, Elder Lyra. This means more to me than you know.” With that, the meeting concluded, and the elders began to disperse. Kael approached me, a hint of a smile on his face. “Well, mate, it’s official. I’m the new alpha.” I forced a smile, trying to hide my doubts. “Congratulations, but you can only assume the position after the coronation in two days.” Kael’s smile widened, his eyes gleaming with excitement. “Ah, right! The coronation! I can’t wait to officially take my place as alpha and have you by my side as my luna, Aria.” I nodded, trying to hide my reservations. “Yes, it’ll be a great day for our pack.” Two days passed, and the day of the coronation arrived. I stood in front of the mirror, my best friend Eliana helping me into my ceremonial gown. My mind wandered, and I couldn’t shake off the feeling of unease. Eliana noticed my gaze and asked, “Hey, what’s wrong? You look a little down.” I forced a smile. “Just exhaustion, I think. It’s been a long few days.” Eliana chuckled. “Well, think of it this way - today’s not just Kael’s coronation, it’s also like your wedding! You’re becoming his luna, after all!” I smiled, trying to lighten up. “I guess you’re right. It’s just a big change, that’s all.” Eliana nodded understandingly. “I know, but you’ll be amazing, Aria. You and Kael will make a great team.” I took a deep breath, letting her words boost my mood. “Thanks, Eli. Let’s get ready to make this a day to remember!” “It will certainly be a day to be remembered, my luna!” Eliana responded. The grand hall of the castle was packed with pack members, all eager to witness the coronation ceremony. Elder Oakley, my father’s beta, stood at the podium, his voice booming as he pronounced Kael as the new alpha. “By the power vested in me, I declare Kael Darkhaven the alpha of the Blood Moon Pack!” The hall erupted in cheers and applause as Kael stepped forward, his eyes gleaming with triumph. I felt a mix of emotions: pride, anxiety, and a hint of uncertainty. Elder Oakley turned to me, his expression solemn. “Aria Blackwood, please kneel before your new alpha.” I descended into a graceful kneel, my heart pounding in my chest. This was it - the moment I would officially become Kael’s Luna. Elder Oakley asked the ritual question: “Aria Blackwood, do you take Alpha Kael Darkhaven as your alpha and mate?” I smiled, my voice clear and confident. “Yes, I do.” But as I looked up at Kael, expecting him to reciprocate, his expression changed. His eyes gleamed with mischief, and his smile twisted into a sneer. “I, Kael Darkhaven, alpha of the Blood Moon Pack, reject you, Aria Blackwood, as my mate and Luna,” he declared, his voice dripping with malice. The hall fell silent, stunned gasps echoing through the room. I felt like I’d been punched in the gut, my world crumbling around me.Chapter Two: Left to Die Kael’s rejection echoed through the grand hall, leaving me stunned and humiliated. But before I could even process what was happening, he continued, his voice dripping with malice. “However, I do have a mate and Luna in mind. One who is worthy of the position.” He turns to Eliana Moon, who was watching the scene unfold with a mixture of shock and excitement. Kael’s eyes locked onto hers, and he smiled, his voice dripping with possessiveness. “Eliana Moon, from this day forward, you will be my mate and luna. Elder Oakley, crown her as such in the presence of this pack.” Elder Oakley looked taken aback, but he quickly recovered, his face expressionless. “As alpha, Kael Darkhaven, it is your right to choose your mate and luna. I will perform the ritual as commanded.” I watched in horror as Elder Oakley approached Eliana, who was beaming with joy. He placed the crown on her head, and Kael pulled her into a possessive embrace. “By the power vested i
Chapter Three: The Lycan’s ArrivalI laid there motionless, my body broken and bleeding. The tears in my eyes seemed to be the only thing still alive, glistening in the faint moonlight filtering through the trees. I was trapped in a limbo between life and death, unable to move or escape the agony consuming me.Suddenly, a rustling in the underbrush sent my heart racing. I was barely conscious but I could feel the presence around me. The sound grew louder, and I braced myself for the worst. A wild beast, perhaps, drawn by the scent of blood?But as the creature emerged from the shadows, I could hear the growl and snare from the creature. I knew it was no ordinary beast, it was a wolf, its fur a shimmering silver-gray, its eyes gleaming with an otherworldly intelligence. This was no ordinary wolf, but a Lycan, a dangerous species of wolves.The Lycan wolf padded around me, its snout twitching as it sniffed my body. I felt a strange sense of calm wash over me, as if this creature meant n
Chapter Four: FateI felt a jolt of electricity run through me, my heart racing with excitement and trepidation. Mate? What does it mean? The handsome stranger’s eyes locked onto mine, a knowing glint in their depths. “It seems our wolves have already figured it out,” he said, a sly smile spreading across his face. But instead of excitement or joy, he let out a scoff. “Mate? Ha! I don’t believe in such superstitions. The moon goddess wouldn’t pair me with a mate, especially not after… everything.”What was he on about? Why did he have that sadness in his eyes just now? I was more lost than ever. “Well, I am Lyr—” His words were cut short by a rough voice. “Well, well, well. Look what we have here. Lyraeus’ favorite lap dog, and a pretty little girl to boot. Is this the reason why you’ve been out of reach for days now?”A short man probably in his thirties with a goatee sauntered into the room, a sly grin spreading across his face. He stood beside Lyraeus, grinning down at me like
Chapter Five: He Owns MeI stretched my arms and yawned, feeling a sense of freedom as I left the room I’d been cooped up in for two days. The sunlight streaming through the windows illuminated the beautiful, natural surroundings, and I felt a sense of peace wash over me as I walked down the halls. The soft rustle of my clothes and the creaking of the wooden floorboards beneath my feet were the only sounds breaking the silence.As I walked, I couldn’t help but admire the intricate carvings on the walls, depicting scenes of wolves and forests. The air was fresh and clean, filled with the scent of pine and earth. I breathed deeply, feeling invigorated and refreshed. My playful spirit took over, and I swung my hands and body as I walked, my long hair bouncing behind me. I twirled around, taking in the grandeur of the high ceilings and the sparkling chandeliers. The paintings on the walls seemed to come alive, telling stories of ancient battles and mythical creatures. As I approached a
Chapter Six: Reflections Lyraeus POVI sat in my study, surrounded by paperworks that I needed to get to quickly. My mind however, was distant, lost in thought. As I drummed my fingers on the armrest, my mind wandered back to the events that had led me to this point. “Aria Blackwood,” I whispered, stroking my chin with my fingers.I thought of the day she fled into the woods in her wolf form. She looked majestic with her piercing yellow eyes. Her wolf form dripped of power and grace, an evidence she's of an alpha's bloodline. That very day, I was in the woods, enjoying the serenity of nature, when I heard a rustling. My sensitive ears picked up the sound, and I prepared myself for a potential threat. But then, a scent wafted through the air, intoxicating my wolf, Zephyr. The scent was unlike anything I had ever smelled before—a heady mix of wildflowers and moonlight. Zephyr, usually a calm and collected wolf, had growled a single word: “Mate!”My eyes narrowed as I reca
Chapter Seven: Plans Lyraeus’ POVI summoned Ryker to my study, my expression grave. “Ryker, I need you to undertake a crucial mission. Aria’s revenge depends on it.”Ryker nodded, his eyes locked on Lyraeus. “What do you need me to do, Lyraeus?”“I want you to spy on the Blood Moon Pack for me,” I said, my voice low and calculated. “Gather every piece of information you can. I need to know their numbers, their strengths, their weaknesses… everything.”Ryker’s eyes narrowed. “And what about Aria? She’s still unsure about her revenge.”My smile was cold. “Leave Aria to me, Ryker. I’ll handle her. You focus on getting me the intel we need to take down the Blood Moon Pack once and for all.”Ryker nodded, his mind already racing with strategies. “I’ll leave immediately, Lyraeus. But what about the pack’s current state? How weak have they become without Aria?”My expression turned thoughtful. “That’s precisely what I want you to find out, Ryker. I have a feeling they’re more vulner
Chapter Eight: Fear and FateAria’s POV:I watched in horror as Lyraeus’ body began to contort in agony, blood flames dancing across his skin. His eyes locked onto mine, filled with a desperate plea. “Lyraeus! Oh no, what’s happening?” I rushed towards him, my heart racing. He tried to speak, but his voice was barely audible. “Aria…help….it's consuming me….”I felt a surge of fear watching me. I didn’t know what he meant and what was wrong with him, but one thing I knew was that I couldn’t let him die, not now, not when we had just started to…to what? I didn’t know, but I couldn’t lose him.I grasped his hand, and a jolt of electricity ran through both of us. The blood flames faltered, and Lyraeus’ body relaxed slightly. “Keep holding on,” I urged, my voice firm. “I won’t let go.”As I held his hand, I felt a strange connection, like our bond was the only thing keeping him tethered to life. The darkness in his eyes receded, replaced by a glimmer of hope. “Lyraeus, stay with me,”
Chapter Nine: Care Amidst HateAria’s POV: As we turned to face the newcomer, our hearts still racing from the intense argument, I saw a tall, imposing figure emerging from the shadows. His piercing eyes locked onto Kaida, then shifted to me, and finally rested on Lyraeus’ motionless form. “Ryker,” Kaida spat, her voice venomous. “Perfect timing, as always.”Ryker’s gaze never wavered. “Kaida, Aria, what’s going on here?”I took a step forward, my voice firm. “Kaida was just leaving, Ryker. She was concerned about Lyraeus’ well-being, but I assured her he’s in good hands.”Ryker’s eyes narrowed, his gaze flicking between us. “I see.Aria, how’s his condition?”Kaida’s face twisted in anger as she spun on her heel and stormed out of the room, leaving Ryker and me alone with Lyraeus. I took a deep breath and approached Ryker, my voice shaking. “Ryker, I was so scared. I didn’t know what to do. He just collapsed and started convulsing…I thought I was going to lose him.”Ryker’s expres