MAXIMUS

Beneath the silvery moonlight, amidst a forest alive with secrets, I stood locked in her gaze, a tempestuous storm churning within me. Her vulnerability and hope meant nothing to me; they were mere distractions.

"Will you... will you reject me now? N-Now that… that you know we are mates?" Her voice trembled with fear, a sensation I had no intention of indulging.

"Rejection is not the path I wish to tread," I muttered, my fingers brushing against hers almost mechanically. "Our bonds run deeper than mere choice."

The words tasted bitter on my tongue, a mockery of any sentiment that might have lingered.

"Then… w-what choice… remains?" Her eyes mirrored uncertainty, a weakness I had no interest in sharing.

"Death. Death is the grim solution that hovers, heavy as the night," I confessed, the words slipping out almost involuntarily.

"To sever the curse that claws at me, I must sever the thread that ties us." Emotions were an inconvenience, but I couldn't deny the weight pressing upon me.

Her gasp echoed in the air, her shock inconsequential to me. "Y-You… you can't mean..." Her voice faltered, unable to grasp the reality of my intentions.

I nodded, my gaze cold and unmoved as I confirmed the unthinkable.

"To save myself from the unending curse, to break free from the chains that bind me, I must be the one to end your life. I need to kill you with my own hands."

The words held no remorse; they were simply the course of action.

A shiver coursed down her spine, and I recognized the moon as a silent observer of our impossible situation.

“And there’s nothing you can do about it but to accept.”

In that moment, destiny hung in the balance, an entwining of love and doom beneath the ancient trees.

The mingling of heart's desires and the stark reality of our predicament left us both ensnared in a dance of emotions neither of us had invited or cared for.

…..

It is often said that there exist three types of love.

The type that is worth taking a life for.

The type that you would give your life for.

And the type you strive for in order to thrive.

Unfortunately, a wretched spirit like mine was never fated to encounter any form of love in my life story. I feel completely devoid of any emotions in my heart, and the mere sound of love annoys and frustrates me to no end.

It fills me with intense rage and causes severe discomfort in my stomach, as if I were about to vomit.

Is it possible for individuals to experience love, even though it has the capacity to devastate them in an instant?

Love has no place in this world, and that is precisely my intention when I ascend to the throne as the ruler of the Lycans.

I intend to establish a realm devoid of romance or any similar emotions. Engaging in such behavior would be prohibited, and the consequence would be loss of life.

I was completely destroyed by love. It had shattered me into minuscule fragments.

The agony is overpowering and engulfs you like an eternal, furious inferno that scorches but does not extinguish, leaving you haunted for the remainder of your existence.

That’s how fucked up it is.

I was an anomaly of the natural world. During my upbringing, I witnessed the tragic demise of my mates while holding them in my embrace, at the hands of my ferocious and merciless creature.

For the past three years, ever since I reached the age of twenty, I have been involved in a series of killings alongside my mates.

Now, at the age of twenty-three, this dark chapter of my life continues. I was afflicted by a previously unknown curse, which transformed me completely into a monstrous being.

During each occurrence of the full moon, I transform into a formidable being, embodying the essence of a Lycan creature.

In this state, I relentlessly pursue a prey, someone I share a bond with, akin to a predator stalking its prey. I would revert to my usual self only once I had slain and consumed her heart.

It was absolutely terrifying as I remained fully aware of my actions, and the echoes of her screams, cries, and wails haunted my mind incessantly.

The horrifying images of their brutal demises haunted me persistently. The memory of tearing her skin and extracting her eyes continued to haunt my thoughts, serving as a constant reminder of my role as a murderer.

I would morph into a merciless creature, obliterating my mate who had ignited the affection within me during each complete lunar cycle.

The Moon Goddess… she was aware of my affliction and still, she continued to unite me with a mate. And I detested her because of this.

The arrival of those stunning ladies in my life feels like a revitalizing breeze and a summer tempest, illuminating my world and bringing a sense of normalcy.

However, their presence is fleeting, lasting less than a year, as I inevitably eliminate them, no matter where they may seek refuge.

Every year, during the span of three full moon nights, I would find myself confined and bound within the depths of a cavern, enduring the most excruciating agony I have ever known.

As my physical form undergoes a metamorphosis, I am overtaken by the primal power of my Lycan creature. Waves of searing agony surge through me, engulfing my senses.

However, somehow, I will find a means to escape and locate that special creature whom I must eliminate in order to restore my usual state. To break the curse that ties me with torment and agony.

Living like this is an absolute nightmare, and as I took the lives of three destined mates, I realized the immense strength that now courses through me.

However, I've also transformed into an uncontrollable inferno that consumes everything in its path without mercy.

I have transformed into a merciless entity devoid of any trace of empathy.

‘A monster.’

The word ‘love’ became a haunting sound in my ears, as I recalled witnessing the demise of couples simply sharing kiss in front of me.

I reside within the sinister shadows of my soul. I lack the ability to experience the same emotions as others. Even intimacy failed to provide any solace for me.

Even my own parents… they are afraid of me and have had a hard time being near me, but it’s fine with me as I've never desired to be with anyone either.

I despise being in the presence of others as it reminds me of the isolation I experience as someone who has taken lives.

The way other gaze upon me serves as a constant reminder of my heartlessness and wickedness.

My sole contribution to the kingdom was in the midst of battle, where I utilized my extraordinary abilities to vanquish our adversaries, sparing the warriors from exerting themselves excessively.

However, they were always filled with fear whenever they witnessed the brutal way in which I slaughtered our adversaries, causing their lifeless forms to become a disturbing sight.

Once again, another brand-new year had arrived, and the impending arrival of the full moon was drawing near.

As the new year arrived, I found myself confronted with the most agonizing memory of my life. It was during that time that I encountered a beautiful, pure-hearted girl who ignited an intense and overpowering love within me.

Regrettably, I became the cause of her tragic demise.

My existence… means danger.

I am constantly avoided by everyone, and now the parents in the realm keep their daughters hidden from me because if the connection of the mate bond ever occurs between me and any of them, then her fate is sealed.

I was a doomed existence that should have never come to be.

Maximus Ravenscroft, the prince of the Gold Obsidian Kingdom, known for my Lycan heritage. I'm currently twenty-three years old and will be celebrating my twenty-fourth birthday this year, which only means I'll be entering the fourth year of this dreadful existence.

Yet, I'm still curious about which woman or what kind of she-wolf will have her turn next.

Clouded with my thoughts, I was startled by a sudden knock on my door, causing me to quickly turn and direct my attention towards it.

“Max… My dear son, we kindly request your presence at the palace.” My mom's voice faltered, filled with fear. I can't hold her responsible; my problem with anger goes beyond what's considered normal.

“Can you tell me the reason first?” I responded abruptly, inwardly scolding myself for being too brusque with my mother.

I can recall a time when I was still a normal werewolf, and those two decades held such cherished memories for me.

However, they now haunt me as I realize they have all vanished. I would never revert to my previous state. I had become an outcast, instilling fear in the hearts of all.

“Max, we called upon a mighty wizard who vowed to discover a solution to free you from the curse.” She provided a concise explanation, her voice trembling to indicate her anxiety.

“Again?” I nonchalantly shrugged, and suddenly I could perceive the sound of her hasty footsteps fading away while I got out of bed. It seems like she is trying to escape from my presence.

As the sun rose, I completed my tidying tasks and casually threw on a coat to cover my previous attire of shorts and a top. Then, I stepped outside.

Numerous enchanters had arrived and departed, offering their futile recommendations. All of their efforts were in vain.

‘Okay, let's find out what this one has to express.’

I really hope I can control my anger and not resort to violence, as it seems like these fraudulent illusionists are attempting to swindle money from my father.

As soon as I exited my room, the guards in the hallway promptly bowed, their legs trembling instinctively with each step I took towards them, unable to meet my gaze.

Disregarding their presence, I proceeded to descend to the lower level, where the palace was situated.

Someone graciously opened the door for me, and as I entered, a palpable tension filled the air. Both older individuals and my parents were in attendance.

In the center of the room, the sorcerer dressed in crimson robes sat on the ground, surrounded by his mystical implements and belongings.

Silently, I confidently walked towards the seat next to my father, gracefully taking my place. This action made everyone in the room nervous and anxious.

My dad coughed lightly before starting.

“Go ahead, please.” He motioned towards the sorcerer, who acknowledged with a nod before directing their gaze towards me.

He seemed like an older gentleman with a snowy beard. His eyes gleamed crimson, reminiscent of a wild creature, while an assortment of rings adorned his fingers. I'm at a loss for words to portray him differently.

He appeared distinct compared to the other guests. And he seemed reminiscent of a timeless shape-changer.

Perhaps he possesses the truth.

“Lycan prince… Unlike other sorcerers or magicians, your parents didn't reach out to me. I have journeyed a great distance to reveal the truth to you before my demise.” As he started speaking, I couldn't help but scoff, questioning the relevance of his words.

“Just do the job. Enough with the blabbering as it doesn't concern me whether you arrived alone or were summoned. Just complete whatever task led you to this place and depart before my patience wears thin!” I lost my temper, and he responded with a faint smile.

“There exist three types of love, yet the most powerful is the one that compels you to live for it, as you both possess the strength to endure death and the possibility of never crossing paths again. You'll encounter her in the near future, and she'll be the person you've been waiting for.”

A smile spread across his face as he looked deeply into my eyes, but I quickly became annoyed. I was extremely annoyed by what he just said.

Who gives any importance to love anyway?

“Love? Is that all? Well, you can leave immediately before I take actions that will cause remorse for everyone involved!” I snarled while my heart became burdened with rage and repulsion.

He recently brought up the concept of love, something I despise completely, and now he could be in serious danger if he doesn't disappear from my presence.

I am indifferent to whatever else he may have to express. All he has to offer here is incoherent babble and complete absurdity.

“Lycan prince, I am unable to provide any additional information. But you must be aware that she possesses the power to captivate you...” He continued speaking, but stopped abruptly before uttering the final word, his gaze fixated on the anger reflected in my eyes.

He flashed a smile in my direction, then turned to my father and mother, before gathering his things and departing.

“Wow! So, tell me, is this the garbage that led me to this place”? I asked my mother a question, and she suddenly became silent.

“Do you not believe that he was implying that your future mate will be the one to end the curse?”

As my father stumbled, I instinctively reacted and swung my hand towards his face with a forceful blow.

However, one of the guards swiftly intervened, shielding him from the impact. To my surprise, my father collapsed as my punch landed on his chest.

All eyes were fixed, wide with astonishment, and I too was taken aback by my own actions. Does that imply that I may have caused the death of my father?

“You're well aware that it's inappropriate to speak to me like that in person!” I let out a low growl, my hand falling to my side as I stared at the motionless form of the guard.

A fiery sensation consumed my being as the malevolent wolf within me threatened to seize control. The term ‘mate’ was an absolute horror for me, and I absolutely despise hearing it.

In sheer terror, my father exclaimed, “Maximus! You nearly caused my demise!”

I was overwhelmed with a pang of remorse, particularly as my mother burst into tears.

Suddenly, a cluster of young ladies rushed into the grand palace. However, the moment they laid eyes on my presence within, they swiftly retreated in haste.

“Then… I believe it's about time to come to terms with departing from this pack. This is not where I fit in. I have taken many lives, and the consequence is to be exiled, something you couldn't do because you were also intimidated by me. Right?”

As I spat these words, no one spoke and they just looked at me with fearful eyes.

“Father, please ensure that I am prohibited from entering this place before I cause harm to any more individuals. Now is the moment to dwell amidst the werewolf community instead.”

As I inhaled, a broad grin spread across their countenances.

The extent to which everyone desired my absence from their lives and the Kingdom, despite my status as the rightful successor to the throne, was truly remarkable.

Honestly, it seems like I was never meant to be with my own kind because I am completely a special kind. A monster.

SERENITY

“Ouch!” I accidentally hit my head on the alarm clock next to my bed, which made me wake up with a groan and open my eyes slowly.

The loud sound startled me awake so abruptly that I quickly approached the troublesome device, switching it off forcefully as if it were the cause of my troubles.

“Ugh!” I really want to throw it down, but I'm too afraid because I know I'll get in trouble afterwards.

I glanced around the room with my tired eyes, and noticed that the window was slightly ajar, revealing the early morning light.

Everyone was still in bed because it was too early in the morning, except for me.

I let out a loud hiss as I lowered my head, feeling the weight of my heart. I felt a surge of both rage and sorrow engulfing me, causing my eyes to sting and making it difficult to hold back my tears.

Although I had only been in bed for a short time, it felt like mere moments as my eyes grew heavy and struggled to shut. I felt extremely sleepy, and all I wanted was to rest on the bed and fall asleep again.

I sat upright on the bed, propped against the wall, as I yawned and rubbed my eyes over and over again.

I lacked the strength to shift my body from the bed. The residence was quiet, as though uninhabited, but that was not true; everyone was just asleep.

While everyone else was peacefully sleeping, I had no choice but to wake up early and take care of the household tasks, even though I was always the last one to go to sleep at night.

I let out another yawn, feeling exhausted, and stretched my body with a grimace of discomfort. The stinging sensation of the whip marks on my arms and back, which were still in the process of healing, caused me pain

I quickly looked at the clock, and clenched my teeth. More than a minute had already passed, and I didn't want to stay in bed any longer once the alarm went off.

If I did, they would punish me severely for being lazy and not following the rules.

The idea of getting beaten once more following all the abuse I endured yesterday caused me to quickly get out of bed. Tears welled up in my eyes as a throbbing headache gripped my head.

I also experienced aching in my legs, accompanied by intense spasms that persisted relentlessly. It served as a harsh reminder of the poor state of my health.

My entire being yearns for relaxation, yet I am unable to provide it. I was tired and my legs felt very tired too, and the bed was just looking at me in a teasing way, like a scary trap ready to harm me.

I could sense my tired eyes struggling to shut as I resisted the urge to keep them open. I felt incredibly sleepy and worn out, with a sore back and twitching legs.

I simply desire to recline on my bed, yet I possess greater wisdom. I am aware of the suffering I will subject myself to if I choose to lie down and sleep after the alarm has sounded.

When I last attempted it, I ended up with a permanent scar on my back caused by the cut from my stepmother's wolf's claw.

And up until now, I am still wondering about how I ended up in this situation.

I am Serenity Nocturne and I happen to be the daughter of Lucius Nocturne, who holds the title of Alpha King. He is widely known as one of the strongest Alphas and is both respected and feared by other packs.

According to historical accounts, he was undefeated in battles and successfully fought against the Pack that murdered his parents during his childhood. He matured and swiftly acquired an unimaginable amount of power during the war.

The origin of his enigmatic abilities remained a mystery, granting him the agility of a gust and the strength of invisible might.

People were terrified of his wolf creature, which was known as the most feared and merciless. It would effortlessly and ruthlessly consume its foes.

As the sole offspring of his Luna, I expected to receive everlasting fear and admiration from everyone. However, that was not the case. Instead, I found myself enslaved, despised and rejected by all, forbidden from acknowledging the Alpha as my father or including his last name in my own.

I was rejected by everyone, even my father, and they also took away my royal status. I was treated as inferior to the lowest rank, like a slave.

My father, Alpha Lucius, has even publicly rejected me in front of everyone in our pack and has constantly warned me about being kicked out of the group.

He had been tormenting me and turning my life into a nightmare, a living hell. This happened because I accomplished something that had never been done before.

A terrible and horrifying deed.

I caused the death of his mate, the Luna. I caused the death of my own mother, but it was because she put my life in serious danger. Everything occurred three years in the past, during my fifteenth year of life.

I struggle to find words to describe the peculiar and overpowering force that has mysteriously consumed me.

On that evening, within the confines of her chamber, I tragically took my mother's life using only my hands, slashing her chest with my sharp nails and consuming her heart, which I suddenly desired like a bloodsucking cretin.

The only thing I remember is being overtaken by a fierce and unfamiliar beast spirit that emerged from within me.

It seized control of my thoughts, physical being, and inner self, just as it nearly ended my life. The peculiar creature was the one that rescued me from the brink of death.

I couldn't control myself and ended up killing my own mother before I could stop myself from going insane.

Everyone believed deep down that I was responsible for the death of the pack's Luna.

And that’s why they tortured me relentlessly, using wolfsbane to weaken my wolf and stripping me of my royal status, reducing me to a mere slave.

Nobody bothered to pay attention to my perspective. They never bothered to inquire about the reason behind my actions.

If I hadn't defended myself, I might have lost my life when my mother turned into a savage monster and assaulted me.

I made every effort to evade and flee the room in order to avoid harming her, but it proved to be futile. She was agile, menacing, and resolute in her mission to terminate my existence.

I was left with no option but to retaliate, and I would not have triumphed if it weren't for that exceptional power.

I don't know what that strange force was that suddenly possessed me, and I have no clue how it emerged from within me.

I sensed the unexpected existence of a peculiar being within me and could unmistakably discern that it was not my wolf, since I had not yet reached the age of sixteen.

Due to the extraordinary power of the creature, I violently assaulted my mother.

I suspected that my mother was under the influence of a demon. It was clear to me that she was not acting rationally, but unfortunately, I was unable to intervene or find a solution at that time.

This was because everyone was gathered at the royal palace to celebrate the birthday of the Beta's daughter.

I had to either defend myself and cause her death, or I lost my life.

I can still clearly recall the beginning of it all. Out of the blue, my mom whisked me away to her room amidst the ongoing birthday party, and I presumed she had something important to tell me.

I had no idea that she was already under the influence of a demonic enchantment and was not in her sane state of mind.

“Mom, what’s wrong? Why did you bring me to your room?” I inquired, but received no response.

Then, suddenly, I observed her eyes transform into a deep, hazy shade and her canine teeth elongate into pointed, razor-sharp fangs.

I was filled with fear and attempted to flee out the door as she suddenly leaped at me, sinking her sharp claws deeply into my back.

“Mom… no! Please! Help!” I shouted loudly for help when the pain overwhelmed me.

I tried desperately to escape, but my efforts were in vain. She pinned me down, her eyes filled with terror, her snarl sending chills down my spine, and her body exuding a demonic scent.

“Mom! Mom! What’s wrong with you? What’s happening? Mom, please!” I found it difficult to catch my breath as I trembled with intense terror.

However, she carelessly leaned over and bit into my neck, greedily drinking my blood while her sharp claws on her right hand lightly traced my chest as if she were seeking my heart.

I was overwhelmed by intense agony, causing me to struggle for air. Once again, my capacity to howl and plead for assistance diminished as my energy depleted from my entire being, resembling a faint trail of vapor.

My mother was indeed on the verge of harming me that evening, and not a single person came to my aid.

In the room, my voice went unnoticed and unheard as my screams were drowned out by the overpowering noise of drums and the festive materials used to celebrate the party on the hall.

She forcefully pulled her mouth away from my neck and emitted horrifying guttural noises.

“You! You must perish! You have to allow the demons to reign supreme!”

Those were the words I heard my mother unintentionally say, as if someone else were speaking through her.

“M-Mom…”

SERENITY

My mom grabbed my dress and ripped the top, exposing my heart, which was the most effective way to defeat a werewolf.

“Mom, please! Stop this!” None of my appeals were heard, as she had completely gone insane.

“You need to die!”

At that moment, an unexpected surge of strength arose from deep within me, allowing me to effortlessly move her away from my stomach, where she was seated.

I swiftly rose to my feet and realized that my body was rapidly heating up; I also had the sensation that I was on the verge of exhaling flames.

I felt a strong disturbance within me, as if it was attempting to escape its boundaries.

I think it worked, because all of a sudden, I went crazy and got taken over by this weird creature, which made me really powerful.

As I gazed at my mother in that instant, her face became unrecognizable to me.

Instead, I perceived a malevolent presence, accompanied by a strong, unsettling odor that ignited a surge of anger within me.

I had an overwhelming urge to take her life and couldn't hold back any longer before confronting her.

Despite her attempts to resist, I was able to overpower her using my newfound power and inflict severe wounds on various areas of her body.

I violently removed her eyes and dislocated the joints in her hands and legs. In the end, I tore the heart out of her chest and consumed it like a monster.

At that moment, the partner of our pack’s Beta forcefully pushed the door open and entered the room.

She witnessed me taking the life of my mother and let out a scream, “Luna!”

A crowd quickly entered and apprehended me while I was in the middle of doing something.

‘Why didn't anyone come when I was so close to dying in her care?’

Despite the numerous injuries on my body, they refused to believe that my mother had assaulted me first. Instead, they unanimously concluded that she had acted in self-defense.

The abilities of that peculiar creature that abruptly possessed me disappeared and never returned. When this occurred, I was fifteen years old, and ever since then, my life has been filled with unhappiness.

I was labeled as a demon, and on numerous occasions, they called upon several sorcerers to examine me.

These sorcerers would provide me with a potion to consume, which only caused intense agony as it scorched my internal organs.

Certain individuals would compel me to immerse myself in a receptacle filled with a poisonous plant called wolfsbane.

This act would cause severe harm to my human form, necessitating a whole month for recovery.

However, despite subjecting me to such torment, they would fail to uncover anything within me except for my wretched lupine nature.

It had been three years since the incident occurred, and nobody trusted me when I claimed that my mother had transformed into a demon and was determined to harm me.

Instead, my suffering intensified as punishment for falsely accusing the deceased Luna.

And this year, my life turned into a complete nightmare when my father decided to be with another woman, to be his wife and the new Luna of our pack.

Ophelia Grimwood, a woman who became my stepmother and a wicked embodiment who detested my presence.

All she desired was to witness my suffering and sorrow, and I couldn't identify the reason for her resentment towards me.

Ever since my father brought her to the majestic pack residence, I have experienced the most dreadful period of my life.

A few months ago, our Beta members tragically perished in a war, and as a result, our father decided to take in their daughter. I'm a year older than her, but that's irrelevant since she also treats me as if I'm her servant.

I follow all her commands without any hesitation, as even a slight disrespect would result in my father inflicting a severe wound on my body.

…..

“Serenity!” Suddenly, my stepmother interrupted with her voice, startling me and causing me to quickly jump off the bed, where I had unknowingly sat for a while.

I was overcome with fear, causing my mind to go blank as I stumbled out of the room with a blurry sight and tears streaming down my face.

I didn't require a fortune teller to predict that she would scold me once more for staying in my room for too long.

Even the way she spoke confirmed it.

I was deeply consumed by my sorrow, to the point where I failed to notice the duration of my presence after the alarm had sounded.

"Serenity!” she shouted once more, but I had to discreetly make my way to the kitchen before responding, to ensure she wouldn't discover that I had been in my bedroom after the alarm went off.

As soon as I entered the living room, I was confronted by the devil, who appeared to be patiently anticipating my arrival.

I felt a chill run through my entire body when I saw her standing confidently before me, wearing the most intimidating expression I had ever witnessed.

I could see the anger and bitterness in her shining brown eyes as she gave me a scornful look, clenching her jaw tightly.

Filled with fear, I instinctively bowed my head, unsure of how to react or respond.

However, there was no doubt that she would defeat me once more, and as usual, my father would not take any action.

“Did you just ignored me when l called you?” The way she spoke clearly showed her intense dislike for me, even when I'm not around.

"I apologize, I..." Slap! I struggled to speak as her sudden strike seared my face, causing a painful sensation akin to being pricked by countless needles.

“Lazy! Did you just switch off the alarm and go back to sleep when it went off?” She clenched her jaw and didn't hesitate to kick me in the stomach without waiting for a response, causing me to fall forcefully onto my rear end.

“No, I... uh...” I was unable to communicate effectively due to the intense discomfort in my abdomen.

I let out a cry and held onto my stomach with one hand, while using the other to soothe my backside. Tears welled up in my eyes and flowed down my face without restraint.

“Please… Luna… I kindly request your mercy just this one time.” I pleaded with a trembling voice as I glanced back at her, only to witness her advancing once more.

I felt an intense, unbearable pain that caused my whole body to tremble. I struggled to catch my breath, whimpering and silently begging for relief.

My eyes pleaded for help, while my lips quivered uncontrollably. The pain was so overwhelming that I couldn't even speak.

“Wow, are you that tired, Serenity? Then, if you're exhausted with life, consider ending it!” She snarled and struck my head with her boot; I sensed my life slipping away.

I felt as if I were about to perish, my head ringing loudly like a bell. I closed my eyes tightly and started sobbing uncontrollably as the agony overwhelmed me.

At that moment, I could hear the sound of her footsteps approaching me once more, causing me to cry even more intensely.

I realized that my tears were in vain, as there was no hope of anyone coming to save me. Instead, they would unite to punish me for disturbing their sleep with my weeping.

She crouched in front of me, glancing at my face with resentment, before uttering words that caused my heart to sink into my abdomen.

“I'm still curious about how you managed to avoid being killed by your mother who was possessed by a demon. Do you recall the information she shared with you regarding the demons?” She inquired, and I observed the self-satisfied grin on her mouth.

‘How… how come she knew about it?’

I felt a sense of bewilderment swirling within me, and my body felt weighed down. I could only gaze, my mouth agape, yet no words escaped.

‘What is the meaning behind her words?’

“O-Ophelia, do you happen to be a… d-demon?” I spoke with a trembling voice, stuttering because I was scared. I breathed heavily while looking at her, feeling confused and deep in thought about what she had just said.

On that particular day, my mother, who was under the influence of evil spirits, informed me that I needed to perish in order for the demons to gain control.

‘How on earth did Ophelia find out that she told me something like this?’

For a brief moment, Ophelia glanced at my face, then chuckled softly as she stood up.

“Demon? Whom did I hear you refer to as a demon? Is that my Luna? Are you accusing my mate of being a demon, just like you accused my demised mate, in order to find a reason to harm her?”

Out of nowhere, my dad's voice boomed as he rushed down the stairs, causing me to quickly stand up from the ground while my body became tense with fear.

‘When did he arrive?’

A look of fury contorted his face, accentuating the marks on his visage that bestowed upon him an air of menace. He looked at me with intense hatred and disgust, his eyes shining in a dark shade of green.

“I...I...did not...I was just recently inquiring...” Fear gripped me as I stuttered, my lips quivering under the weight of his intimidating gaze.

“Oh, Alpha. This freak, she used to call me that because I shouted at her to start doing her household tasks.” Ophelia complained, tears welling up in her eyes, about how unbelievable it was that she woke up to discover that she was still sleeping even though the alarm had already gone off.

‘What the hell? I can't believe how incredible this woman is!’

My father became furious and rushed towards me like a predator, without caring if I was telling the truth.

He moved closer, his massive frame casting a terrifying shadow that loomed above me, enveloping my world in a mix of dread and sorrow. I closed my eyes tightly, expecting his attack.

Pak! As I anticipated, a scorching slap struck my face, causing searing agony to surge through it like a blazing inferno.

I let out a loud cry and instinctively grabbed my face as blood clumps began to gush from my mouth.

I trembled and whimpered, feeling a heart-wrenching pain that left me numb.

However, he appeared unsatisfied, and I witnessed him assaulting me once more.

Pak!