Chapter Eleven: The TruthAria’s POV: I sat beside Lyraeus, his chest rising and falling with labored breaths. Ryker stood nearby, his eyes watchful. I reached out, taking Lyraeus’ hand in mine. “Ryker, I’m so sorry… I never meant to put Lyraeus in danger. I was so stupid to run off like that.”Ryker’s expression softened. “Aria, it’s not your fault. Lyraeus’ condition has nothing to do with you. He’s been struggling with a curse, and his mind is playing tricks on him.”I frowned, confusion etched on my face. “What curse?” Ryker’s lips pressed into a tight line, his silence telling me he wouldn’t elaborate. I turned my attention to Lyraeus, his words still echoing in my mind. “What did Lyraeus mean, Ryker? What did he mean by my pack causing the rift between our packs?”Ryker’s eyes narrowed, his gaze piercing. “Are you sure you’re ready for the truth, Aria?”I steeled myself, my heart pounding. “Yes, I’m ready, I need to know.”Ryker’s expression turned grave, and he nodded, his e

Chapter 13: The Search BeginsLyraeus’ POV: As the night wore on and the darkness threatened to consume me once more, Aria’s voice cut through the haze, her touch a comforting anchor amidst the storm raging within my mind. “You’re not alone, Lyraeus,” she murmured, her words a gentle reassurance as she held my trembling hands in hers. “It was just an illusion, a trick of the mind. You’re here with me, safe and sound.”Her words were a balm to my wounded soul, a reminder that even in my darkest moments, I was not alone. With her guidance, I found the strength to push back against the shadows that threatened to consume me, to reclaim control over my fractured mind. With Aria’s steady support, we made our way back to the safety of the house, where Ryker awaited us with a watchful gaze. As we entered, I couldn’t shake the lingering sense of unease that clung to me like a second skin—a reminder of the darkness that lurked just beneath the surface, waiting to strike when least expected.

Chapter 15: Tyranny and DecayKael’s POV: Suddenly, the doors burst open, and a figure from my past stride in… Akita. “Akita!!!!” I blurted out loud in amusement.Akita’s eyes scanned the room, taking in the opulent decorations and the throne I sat on. A sly grin spread across his face as he approached me. “Kael, my old friend,” he said, his voice dripping with sarcasm. “I see you’ve done well for yourself. The throne suits you.” I raised an eyebrow, intrigued by his sudden appearance. “Akita. It has been a long time. What brings you to my court?”Akita’s grin grew wider as he bowed low. “I’ve come to pay my respects to the new alpha. And to offer my services, of course just like old times.”I leaned back on my throne, skeptical. “Your services? What could you possibly offer me, Akita?”Akita’s eyes gleamed with ambition. “You know I have skills, Kael. Skills that would be valuable to an alpha such as yourself. Skills that could help you maintain your power and crush your enemies.

Chapter 17: Secrets and AlliancesAria’s POV: My eyes fluttered open, and the memories came flooding back. My aunt’s death, Kael’s betrayal, the pain and grief that threatened to consume me. I felt a fresh wave of tears prick at the corners of my eyes, and I let out a sob. Just as I was surrendering to my sorrows, the door creaked open, and Lyraeus walked in. His presence was like a ray of sunlight, piercing through the darkness that had enveloped me. My tears faltered, my gaze fixed on Lyraeus as he approached me. His eyes were filled with a deep understanding, but also a hint of frustration. “Aria, crying won’t help you out of this situation,” he said gently, but firmly. My sadness gave way to anger, my eyes flashing at Lyraeus. “What would help me, then?” I demanded, my voice trembling. “You’ve been saying that for weeks, but I’m still stuck in this nightmare!”Lyraeus’ expression remained calm, but his eyes blazed with intensity. “You need to put yourself together, Aria. Figh

Chapter 19: Close CallLyraeus’ POV:The forest around me was blur as I raced through the underbrush, every muscle in my body straining to move faster. Aria’s scream echoed in my mind, spurring me on. I had seen the Shadow Stalkers drag her away, their swift movements almost imperceptible. I reached the border of the Shadow Fang territory and paused, my senses alert. The scent of the Stalkers lingered in the air, a trail I could follow. With a growl, I shifted into my Lycan form, feeling the familiar surge of power as my bones and muscles transformed. Every second counted. The trail led deeper into the forest, winding through dense thickets and rocky terrain. I moved silently, my heightened senses picking up every sound, every shift in the wind. The scent grew stronger, mingled with the unmistakable odor of damp earth and decaying leaves. I found the cave entrance, hidden behind a curtain of ivy and moss. The air around it was thick with the smell of the Shadow Stalkers. They were