(SHEILA'S POV)Willowhart along with most of Silverthornians, embarked on our journey towards Luminous Edge earlier this morning, my heart weighed heavy with the knowledge that we were leaving behind the only home we had ever known. The threat of the Land Enclosure Program loomed over us like a dark cloud, driving us from our cherished haven.Now, as the sun climbed higher in the sky, I stood amidst the dwindling remnants of our once vibrant community. Silverthorn had always been small, even by the standards of the Harvestia Monarchy's villages. But its modest size was fitting for a group of exiles like us, living on the outskirts of society, away from the watchful eyes of the monarchy.As I gazed into the distance, my heart sank at the sight of the deserted streets of Silverthorn. The buildings that had once echoed with the sounds of bustling life were now eerily silent, their empty windows casting long shadows in the morning light. It was a painful reminder of the exodus that had sw

(SHEILA'S POV)As dusk settled over the woods, I found myself amidst the gathering darkness, my steps muffled by the forest floor. With Emberlyn leading the way, accompanied by her loyal mercenaries, we pressed on in search of Orion. My heart yearned to bridge the gap between myself and my step-sister, seeking an opportunity for conversation amid the tense atmosphere. Yet, Emberlyn's demeanor atop her steed appeared forbidding, her fiery hair matching the intensity of her resolve."Keep your eyes peeled, everyone. Our mission today is to capture this man, father’s order," Emberlyn commanded, her voice cut in the dimming light.The leader of the mercenaries acknowledged her orders with a casual tone, though retaining a respectful demeanor. "Of course, princess," he replied, his confidence evident. "Tonight's the night, boys. Let's ensure we secure our prize," he rallied his comrades, their responses tinged with assurance."The just paid us so good! We won't let him slip away," they af

(EMBERLYN'S POV)As I stood outside my mother's chamber, the events of the day replayed in my mind like a relentless loop. It had become clear that Orion was oblivious about that incident. He stood before me many times, his resolve unyielding as ever. His fierce loyalty to Sheila perplexed and frustrated me in equal measure.Taking a deep breath, I rapped lightly on the door, hoping for some solace in my mother's presence. Vespera's warm voice greeted me from within, inviting me to enter. "Emberlyn? Come on in!" she exclaimed, her cheerful tone a stark contrast to the turmoil brewing within me.As I pushed open the heavy door to my mother's private chamber, I was immediately greeted by the familiar sight of two maids fussing around her. The room was a sanctuary of peace and sophistication, a reflection of my mother's refined taste and esteemed position. Soft light filtered through the sheer curtains, casting a gentle glow over the lavish décor.Sensing my melancholy, my mother, Vesper

(SHEILA'S POV)I lay there, weak and feeble, the darkness pressing in around me like a suffocating shroud. I couldn't see anything, but the pain... the pain was all-consuming. It was as if I was submerged in the icy depths of some unfathomable abyss. Every breath I took felt like a battle against death itself. The silver arrow that was lodged into my body had left an open burning flesh in its wake. And the wolfsbane venom... it was like molten fire coursing through my veins, scorching me from within.But even in that desperate state, I refused to surrender. I had endured a lifetime of torment, all because of what I was—a mix of human and werewolf blood. The constant rejection, the ridicule, the relentless persecution by those who considered themselves superior... it had all been a testament to the cruelty of this world.But I wouldn't let them break me. I wouldn't give them the satisfaction of seeing me crumble. My very existence challenged their notion of superiority, and I wouldn't

(SHEILA'S POV)As I ventured across the farmland in search of Orion, the afternoon sun began its descent, casting long shadows over the fields. My attention was drawn to an empty cargo carriage, an anomaly amidst the rural landscape. Curiosity piqued, I approached, noticing two figures seated upon it. Two farmers, it seemed, though something seemed amiss.As I drew closer, it became evident that the carriage had come to an abrupt halt due to the younger worker's distress. His elder companion was in a state of near-collapse, sweat beading on his brow and hands trembling. Concern flooded me as I approached, my instincts kicking in.Upon further investigating, I learned that the older man had been neglecting his meals, a fact that explained his weakened state. With a nod of understanding, I sprang into action, enlisting the help of the younger farmer to assist me in guiding the older man to their living quarters.Settling the frail man down, I immediately began to assess his condition, d