SERENITY

“P-Please… Spare me, please? C-Can… can you please disobey my father on this? You can't strip me! Just… just wash my face. Please, just let me rinse my face with water so I can remove the dirt in my eyes," I begged as I stepped onto the bathroom floor.

“Don’t worry. We had no intention of following his orders. We will not engage in that," one of them stated, and I let out a deep breath of relief.

I had no idea that someone actually felt a hint of sympathy towards me. They dumped an entire bucket of water onto my face and handed me another one to rinse off the stew splatters that covered my face.

I quickly rinsed my eyes completely until I could see clearly once more. Even though the pain still lingers, I was overjoyed to be able to see once more.

I faced the guards, smiling broadly, ready to express my gratitude, but I wasn’t able to do so because the sound of the bathroom door squeaking open.

Vivien was positioned directly by the entrance, wearing an expression of anger.

“What are you doing, huh? You went against my father, the Alpha!” The sound of her voice echoed within the walls, causing the bodyguards to immediately drop to the ground, begging her not to inform on them.

Every single one of them was terrified to the very depths of their being, trembling intensely.

“Do you realize the consequences of your actions for him? Oh no, someone will demise, for sure! Every guard follows the Alpha's orders without question. And that will make you alive!” She shouted loudly, and I remained frozen in place.

“Vivien, can you spare this one for me, just this one time? I kindly request that you refrain from doing this to them. Feel free to penalize me, but please refrain from involving innocent individuals in my wretched existence.”

“No way! I won't let anything prevent me from informing my father! I'm happy to have someone to testify!" She let out an annoyed breath, and I glanced over to find Ophelia smirking mockingly at me as she entered, gracefully moving her hips beneath the elegant gown she had on.

A surge of anger rose within me as I met her gaze. ‘That was my mother’s most favorite gown. How could she wear it just like that?’

The shimmering jewels encircling it, along with its exquisite and costly craftsmanship, rendered it truly extraordinary.

I felt annoyed when I saw Ophelia, that demon, wearing the dress, acting as if she’s the real Luna of this pack, but all I could do was mope sadly because there was nothing I could do.

“Luna, could you please... we are just...” One of the guards started to plead.

“Continue with your task! Undress her immediately as we observe!” Ophelia interrupted, giggling and putting her arm around Vivien's shoulder, giving me a self-satisfied expression.

I furrowed my brow, questioning whether I had heard her correctly. It seems like my ear transmitted an incorrect sound to my brain for processing, or my brain didn't interpret the message accurately.

One of these events must have taken place, as it is impossible for it to be true.

“Yes, go on! Complete the task immediately!” Vivien giggled and took out her cellphone.

The guards, driven by instinct to protect themselves, stood up and faced me with serious expressions that indicated they were unwilling to hear my pleas on this occasion.

“We apologize, but we don't have any alternative.” As they advanced, one of them whispered quietly.

“V-Vivien, no, please? Do you plan on seeing me unclothed?” I stuttered when I noticed her pointing her phone's camera at me.

My eyes burned with tears and they flowed like two streams as I reluctantly shuffled my feet, praying that my worst fears were not coming true.

Ophelia suddenly started laughing, while Vivien chuckled and gave me a self-satisfied expression.

“Yep! My school friends would be thrilled to see you bare, unclothed! Perhaps it could persuade a few boys in my class to spend an evening with you. As I can tell, dear princess, you have a strong desire for sex, right?" Vivien spatted with a smirk on her face.

The words she just uttered were incredibly repulsive and revolting, causing me to almost vomit.

“What? How dare you! Please, stop! Refrain from making physical contact with me.” I alerted the royal guards, but they completely ignored me and continued their actions as if I hadn't spoken at all.

I attempted to run away, but I was immediately apprehended and forcefully pushed against the wall after taking only a few steps.

The three guards had become extremely cruel and completely ignored anything I said. Two individuals forcefully seized my hands and legs, using their strong arms to immobilize me completely.

The final person grasped the top of my dress, and as I let out a scream, he forcefully tore it, exposing my bra.

“No, please! Stop! Please!” I let out a loud cry, but nothing came to a halt.

Everything unfolded like a terrible dream when my dress was ripped apart, splitting into two pieces, revealing my underwear in the process.

Ophelia and Vivien erupted into another mocking laughter during the recording.

“This video is going to be the ultimate sensation on the internet. And a more fitting consequence for the wickedness you inflicted upon this pack! Dad is going to really enjoy this!"

Vivien chuckled, and those remarks felt like painful blades stabbing my heart. I couldn't forget her laughter; it lingered in my mind like creatures in the darkness.

The men were removing my garments and would soon proceed to my bra. I sensed a throbbing pain in my head, and my heart tightened with intense anger as I fought fruitlessly to release myself.

I squeezed my eyes closed, and my teeth started chattering with fear as I anticipated what was going to occur. It would be a major embarrassment, and my life would be forever altered.

‘How can I possibly face them once my nakedness becomes widely known?’

I clenched my hands into a fist, but I was helpless as the two strong guards pressed them against the wall.

Initially, they hesitated to undo my bra or lower my panties, but Vivien was eager.

“Come on, what are you waiting for? Remove her bra and panties swiftly to complete this task. I require a quality video, or else you may face the consequences from my father! Don’t worry, she’s no longer your Alpha’s daughter. She’s just now a useless slave! Act towards her as if she was just a mere trash!”

Vivien's annoying voice echoed in my ears as she cautioned them, leaving me breathless while vigorously shaking my head.

“No, no. Please, no!” I continued pleading and screaming at the highest volume, while tears flowed down my face like flowing rivers.

As an Alpha by nature, I found the sensation of their hands on my bare skin to be bothersome and repulsive. My heart was completely broken.

I had my eyes wide open, and I noticed that Vivien was pointing her camera at me. It was more than I could have expected for all the wrongs I had done.

‘Once the entire pack views this video, what remains of my existence?’

I would become a source of amusement, subject to ridicule even from the young ones.

My mind was flooded with frightening thoughts, and my inner wolf couldn't contain itself any longer, starting to escape from its cage. However, I was aware that I was no match for anyone.

Even though I had completed my shift, my wolf ended up being the least strong and could be beaten by even the lowest-ranking Omega.

This was one of the reasons why my father despised me for being his daughter. Taking the life of his partner, but I could never match the dominance and abilities of an Alpha.

“Continue! If she attempts to resist, strike her! Show no mercy to a heartless murderer like her, or else you will be caught as her partner in crime!” Ophelia joined the conversation and greeted Vivien with a smile.

Vivien responded with laughter before she left, giving me another look as if she was anticipating something from me.

Right at that moment, utilizing the collective power of my wolf companion, I managed to free my right hand from the grip of a guard and swiftly deliver a forceful punch, as well as a headbutt to the guard standing before me.

Perhaps it was a mistake to do everything I did. Perhaps it would have been better if I had remained composed and confronted my harsh destiny.

The actions I took ignited a strong anger within the royal guards, and in an instant, they started to unleash a barrage of powerful punches and kicks upon me.

I felt intense pain all over my body, and my lips were already bleeding from a forceful kick to my face. I felt a fiery ache in my stomach, causing me to whimper in agony instead of screaming.

“Enough everyone, step away from her. Instead, could someone fetch a whip made of wolfsbane? I would like to give her a few strokes before I leave for school.”

Vivien placed an order, causing my heart to race with anxiety. I still recall the pain I felt, and now I can't imagine having them once more.

The bodyguards abandoned me, leaving me in agony. However, I was aware that the pain I was experiencing was nothing compared to the agony I would endure once Vivien struck me with the whip made from wolf's bane.

I doubted my ability to endure, thus I found myself pleading for my existence.

“V-Vi… V-Vivien… please…” Getting up on my knees, I started to beg Vivien.

Despite her dropping her phone, she quickly picked it up again to capture me pleading for mercy. She laughed heartily, but I'm not bothered by the embarrassment, even if it shatters me.

The most important thing was that my life had significance.

“Vivien, please… I beg you, cease causing me agony. Could you please? I never mistreated you or caused you any harm in the past. We are not foes. Why are you now treating me differently just because you have a higher status? I kindly request that you cease...”

I cried softly, tears streaming down my cheeks while my hair fell in a messy and unkempt manner across my face.

I felt a fiery ache in my stomach, accompanied by intense hunger. Even my head couldn't prevent the throbbing sensation.

Beside the pain in various areas of my body caused by the intense beating from the bodyguards earlier.

“Poor you. But sorry, you will not be able to stop me. I take pleasure in witnessing your despairing tears. It brings me happiness and contentment. It gives me a stronger sense of being the Alpha's daughter...” She smiled and quickly hid her phone behind her.

At that moment, the guard came back holding the whip, which was crackling like hot oil.

The object had been drenched in wolfsbane and would cause my skin to rip upon contact, not to mention the pain of being whipped with it.

“Leave, you are free to go now.” As she received it from the guard, she flashed a smile in his direction before facing me.

However, the guard seemed hesitant. He appeared to have something to say to her, but he was a little afraid.

“What? Why are you still just standing there?” Vivien growled while giving a stern look, causing him to tremble.

However, he still approached and leaned in closer to her, his eyes filled with intense terror about something I couldn't discern.

Vivien heard him softly speak into her ear, causing her to recoil and shudder with a sudden gasp, her eyes widening in the same fearful shock as the guard.

“Really? Are you referring to Lycan?” I caught a faint whisper escape her lips.

I felt perplexed and gazed at them, pondering what the guard might have said to elicit such fear from the powerful Vivien.

The whip she was holding dropped from her hand in surprise when he whispered something to her.

I opened my mouth to ask and understand the situation, but at that moment, something peculiar and surprising occurred.

I detected an aroma with my nose. The delightful fragrance encompassed all the lovely things my thoughts could imagine.

The scent of vanilla and sandalwood, combined with a hint of citrus, captivated my senses and enveloped me in its powerful and comforting embrace.

“Serenity, our mate!” Bewilderment followed when my wolf suddenly howled.

SERENITY

“Mate! Our mate is here!” Maia, my tiny wolf, let out a loud cry once more out of surprise and doubt as I quickly got up, trying to figure out if it was actually happening or some sort of deception.

After the guards whispered something in Vivien's ear, she quickly dropped the whip and disappeared from the room.

The news appeared to be extremely alarming, as it was the only explanation for Vivien's intense panic, to the point where she even forgot she was about to harm me.

Although I was confused about its nature, I couldn't resist expressing gratitude to the guard who had recently rescued me from a painful ordeal.

“Did you not hear Vivien talk about the Lycan a moment ago?” The frightened voice of Maia resonated, causing my jaw to fall open as I suddenly realized the cause of her fear.

‘If a Lycan had come to our pack then that means… we will face a terrible disaster. It means a doom to our pack.’

Lycans are wicked and possess greater strength. They are highly skilled in all areas where we cannot compete with them. Even a group of ten werewolves would not be able to defeat a single ordinary Lycan in combat.

I quickly exited the room, wrapping my partially exposed body with my arms as I hurriedly headed towards my room along the corridors, running without caution as my face turned red with embarrassment and frustration.

The guards standing outside were staring at me intensely, and it made me feel uncomfortable as I ran faster, pushing my legs to their limits.

Irrespective of the events that occurred in my life, it remained unchanged that I was the daughter of the Alpha. I still had royal blood flowing through my veins.

The majestic packhouse was constructed as a three-level structure, featuring extensive corridors on each floor that interconnect rooms through staircases.

Although the palace was situated on the second level, my room was located on the ground floor.

I was brought to a restroom by the guards on the top floor of the palace's three-story building. To get to my own restroom, I had to go down to the first floor, which meant I would have to walk through the palace hallway.

As soon as I reached the hallway on the second floor, it was completely silent, as if there was nobody around.

It seemed as if everyone had departed or had been cautioned to remain silent. As usual, there were no security personnel present in the vicinity, which was both unusual and perplexing.

I walked softly and carefully to prevent violating any potential rules of silence, if they existed.

As I approached the palace door, the final room before the descending stairs, I once again caught a whiff of someone's soothing and incredibly fragrant aroma, the scent of my mate.

However, this time it was more intense and overpowering than before.

A delightful scent entered my nose, enveloping me completely and captivating my mind. It was so amazing that I couldn't move for a short time, experiencing a captivating feeling on my entire body.

“Serenity, listen. Our mate, he is within the palace. The person we had been anticipating to save us from the dreadful pit. Finding our soulmate will bring an end to our pain as he will cherish us and rescue us from this place! We are still incredibly fortunate!”

I felt a surge of joy as my wolf playfully jumped and chirped within me. I couldn't help but smile as I became captivated by the enticing scent of my mate.

With a rush of excitement, I hurried to my room and grabbed a dress from the clothing rack. I didn't even have time to notice its color or quality as I quickly made my way back, eagerly heading towards the palace.

I had completely overlooked the eerie quietness and Vivien's anxiety about the existence of a Lycan in the pack.

I couldn't think clearly because of everything going on, and my mind was solely focused on my mate. Encountering him and embracing him tightly as we immerse ourselves in the intense emotions of our deep connection.

My father once told me that I would never find a mate due to a supposed curse, but he was clearly mistaken.

Today, he would realize that I was similar to every other wolf. At the age of eighteen, a female wolf discovered her soulmate and they would live in eternal happiness together, destined by the moon goddess.

I regained my composure when I pushed open the door to the palace. At that very instant, as I stood before the entire crowd, I suddenly realized the perilous situation I had placed myself in.

It's not only risky, but also a self-destructive decision. I finally realized the reason behind everyone's silence. It became clear to me why Vivien was shaking like a frightened little kid who had just encountered a terrifying creature.

Perhaps it would have been better if I had immediately gone to my room and concealed myself. I regret coming here, it would have prevented this situation.

However, the most terrifying aspect was still on the horizon.

“Is he... the one? Our… destined mate?” I was terrified as my wolf stuttered, and I desperately wished the ground would open up and swallow me.

It was especially horrifying when he lifted his head and locked eyes with me, his glowing red eyes resembling those of a creature.

I was overcome with fear and anxiety when I saw his monstrous appearance. He was a combination of a man and a wolf, and his size was incredibly intimidating.

However, despite my fear, I couldn't help but be drawn to the captivating scent emanating from his body.

‘He was still… my mate! But how can a Lycan be a werewolf’s mate? What kind of humor was the lunar deity pulling off?’

The terrifying creature occupied my father's seat of power, while everyone else, including my dad, lay flat on the ground, bowing in submission and terror.

Our gazes met, and I noticed him narrowing his eyes in confusion, examining me carefully as if he was searching for something.

I was expected to bend like everyone else because, from the corner of my vision, I could perceive my father signaling for me to lower myself, but I'm unsure why it felt so difficult for me.

This man right there, had turned out to be my mate, and my heart was pounding for whoever he might be.

Despite being a Lycan, I felt no fear or whatsoever. Instead, I desired to rush into his embrace for protection.

He was my source of hope, while my father only cared about the pack and not about me.

Right at that exact moment, he transformed into a human with such speed and enchantment that I couldn't help but be impressed.

However, what truly astonished me was the incredibly attractive and charismatic young man standing before me in his true appearance.

I couldn't help but feel a flutter in my heart when I saw him. A surprised gasp escaped my mouth, and my eyes instantly filled with tears as I found myself staring at him with admiration.

He had an irresistible charm, with his sun-kissed complexion and wavy chestnut locks cascading around his well-defined face.

His captivating gaze, now resembling the color of the sea, added to his allure. He wore a majestic gray robe adorned with orbs and pearls, which made him look like a deity from ancient Greece.

“Who is this filthy swine?” I listened to his voice for the very first time, and I couldn't even detect the anger in it.

All I heard were deep, satisfying sounds that I found enjoyable.

“We are… we are mates!” I let out a joyful scream to him using the mental bond, the mind-link, that I hastily established by tapping into our connection as mates.

A wide smile spread across my face as I walked towards him, filled with happiness at last discovering my partner.

However, my excitement quickly vanished when he growled and stood up from the chair, anger evident in his eyes as he stared at me.

In an instant, he stood up from the throne and swiftly charged towards me.

Smash!

With great force, he delivered a strong punch to my stomach, causing an intense, piercing pain. I was thrown against the wall and then forcefully thrown back onto the floor.

“Ahhh!” I screamed in pain as my eyes stung and tears streamed down my face.

I held onto my stomach and gritted my teeth, feeling the intense agony as if my life was slipping away.

However, it seems that my mate is not finished with me yet.

To my surprise, I witnessed him raise his bulky, coarse boot and forcefully bring it down onto my face. Bang!

Fortunately, I managed to swiftly evade it, causing him to strike the ground instead. I was filled with dread as I watched the tiled floor shatter under the impact of his feet.

A strong sense of fear washed over me like a turbulent ocean, and in that moment, I was incredibly shaken and unable to comprehend what was happening.

All I could do was sit up and gaze in confusion at my attractive mate, who seemed completely unfamiliar to me now.

He glared at me with the ferocity of a famished lion pursuing its elusive prey.

I was the target. Me, who was his mate was the target, and recently, he nearly smashed my face.

‘Did I just have a dream? Was this all part of another nightmare?’

“Refrain yourself from talking! I'd rather not hear the word 'mate' from anyone!” He shouted at me using mind-link, and I started to vigorously nod my head, retreating in fear as he moved closer towards me.

“I-I promise… I… I won't utter those words again. I apologize. I kindly request that you refrain from physically harming me. Please spare my life. I'm sorry for my lack of intelligence. Could you kindly...” As the blow to my stomach intensified, a wave of pulsating pain spread throughout my body, causing me to sob uncontrollably.

I can't fathom what it would be like to receive any more blows from him. There is a possibility that I could perish immediately.

He suddenly stopped walking towards me and gazed at me intently for a brief moment.

“In that case, there's no problem, as long as you avoid bringing it up.” He forced a smile and then turned around, making his way back to the throne.

“Please, everyone, find a seat and sit down. I have a couple of things to mention.” He spoke brusquely, exuding an air of dominance and strength in his vocal delivery.

There was something unique about his energy. His incredible power was evident in every word he uttered, yet my heart was overwhelmed with excruciating agony as I helplessly observed him, while the stench of despair assaulted my senses.

After eagerly anticipating my soulmate as my rescuer for many years, I ultimately discovered a malevolent being as my mate - someone who would harm me if I referred to them as my mate.

A person who referred to me as a filthy swine with disdain in his tone.

He belonged to the group of cruel Lycans, whom my mother had cautioned me against associating with due to their monstrous nature.

‘Moon Goddess, until when will I suffer?’

SERENITY

The sound of my ribs breaking was horrifying, and I felt intense pain spreading throughout my body, rendering me unable to move.

A throbbing pain. I experienced an agonizing ache, caused by both his blow and the intense animosity in his gaze. The scent remained strong, and the more I inhaled it, the more shattered I felt.

The pain was so intense that I wished the earth would open up and engulf me, causing me to disappear from existence.

I felt like my life had come to an end, and the idea of dying seemed very tempting at the moment.

I had a coughing fit and a thick crimson liquid sprayed out of my mouth. I felt my lips quiver and my eyes well up with tears that streamed down my face like never-ending rivers, scorching my skin.

I let out a deep groan as a sharp pain shot through my stomach, a painful reminder that my destined mate had struck me with such force, as if they wished for my demise.

‘But how is this possible? Why would he do that?’

I couldn't believe my eyes as I glanced up at the Lycan, making sure I wasn't imagining things. However, the heartless man didn't even acknowledge my presence. It seemed as if he had completely overlooked my presence.

As soon as I let out a cough, all the people in the palace turned their heads to look at me. However, my cold-hearted mate didn't even bother to acknowledge my presence.

I sat hunched on the ground, feeling defeated and broken. I experienced intense pain in my stomach and chest, making it difficult for me to even scream.

However, I didn't have the bravery to interrupt him with my suffering. I couldn't even express my pain through screams while he was speaking, as I feared he would become furious and harm me.

The chill on his face made me close my mouth instantly. All I could manage was a quiet whimper and groan, as I attempted to endure the pain using my wolf-like ability to heal.

The force of his punch was incredibly strong. Whenever I caught a glimpse of the shattered tiles on the floor, I couldn't help but imagine that it could have been my head if I hadn't managed to avoid it.

Fear would instantly grip my heart, causing it to sink into my stomach. I was nearly killed by my destined mate simply for referring to him as my mate.

‘Why did I have to be so unfortunate to end up with such a creature as a mate?’

Even my wolf, who was thrilled about having a mate, can't stop howling in disappointment and extreme sadness.

“Lycan…” I attempted to communicate with my mate once more using mind-link, but I quickly realized that he had already severed the link, preventing my thoughts from reaching him.

‘Is he filled with such intense dislike for me upon our initial meeting?’

‘Didn't I become his mate to melt his heart and captivate him with an immediate love upon our first meeting?’

He didn't refuse me, but he also didn't agree. After striking me, he simply cautioned me to never bring up the term ‘mate’ in his presence ever again.

‘That's so heartless... That’s so cruel of him…’

“Everyone, let me introduce myself first. I am Maximus, the prince of the Lycans, as I'm sure you are all aware. Right now, I need everyone's full attention. I will only say this once, and I expect complete compliance. Any defiance will not be tolerated.” The Lycan started to discuss with the pack members after his brief of silence since he attacked me.

Had it not been for the coarseness and intimidation in his face and eyes, I might have interpreted the silence as an indication of regret.

His voice resonated with the power of thunder, emitting a captivating and intense energy that left everyone frozen in place.

I let out a startled breath when he revealed himself as the prince of the Lycans.

However, it appeared that I was the sole individual who had just come to the realization that he was not merely a Lycan, but rather the prince, as no one reacted in the same way I did.

I understand now. This really clarified why my dad turned into a puppet in front of the Lycan.

I am aware of his immense courage and lack of fear, however, every werewolf was well aware that no matter how brave one may be, it would be futile to try and escape the fury of the Lycan prince, who holds dominion over the armies of the Lycans.

I finally understand why my mate had such a strong and terrifying presence that could make anyone lose their bravery and feel weak.

His presence had the ability to seep into the walls, causing a collective shiver of fear among us.

A sense of fear overwhelmed me as my inner wolf retreated deep within, quivering with fright. It's hard to believe that my wolf and I become scared of the man who was supposed to accept us as his beloved mate.

‘Why is my life in such disarray?’

I glanced up at his face once more and noticed how he stood confidently, with well-defined muscles visible in every area of his physique, particularly his strong arms and wide chest, despite his loose-fitting long-sleeved robe.

It subtly indicated the immense power and strength possessed by this individual.

He coughed to regain his voice, his expression becoming even more serious, causing everyone to feel more anxious as we anticipated his next words.

He delicately moved his hand across his nose, wiping it softly, and emitted a snort as if he had detected a strong odor.

I sensed that my scent was causing him to rub his nose in annoyance, and it deeply saddened me.

Perhaps he could have a girlfriend who is also a Lycan, and witnessing a werewolf like myself becoming his mate has ignited anger and repulsion within him.

However, during my mother's lifetime, she reassured me that my mate would adore me in ways I couldn't fathom, cherishing me like a queen and valuing me as the most treasured aspect of his being.

Prior to my mother's passing, we would often spend time together on the balcony. I would sit on her lap as she shared stories and knowledge about the special connection called mate bond, particularly for those of us with royal lineage.

The story was so captivating that it made me imagine experiencing a day similar to it.

On the day I reached the age of eighteen, I unexpectedly encountered my incredibly attractive soulmate who shares the same royal lineage as me.

Our hearts, souls, and bodies were inexplicably drawn to each other.

The way she explained everything was incredibly touching, and I eagerly anticipated the arrival of that day.

My mother didn't mention anything about rejecting a mate or feeling hatred towards anyone.

When I asked her if it was a possibility, she assured me that it could never happen to me, because I am special being the princess of the pack.

‘But now? What's happening here?’ My mate nearly caused my demise in a horrifying manner just now.

“Just to let you know, I arrived here because I will temporarily reside in this pack alongside you, vulnerable creatures. I am familiar with the faces of everyone present, thus I feel compelled to deliver a cautionary message to each and every one of you…”

“I don't want anyone to know about my real identity as a Lycan. I arrived here with the intention of leading a regular life, free from any unfortunate incidents or calamities. However, should you choose to defy me, your actions may compel me to engage in such behavior.”

“Tonight, I will be staying in this luxurious lodge, while a different lodge will be constructed within the next day for me and my warrior guards to reside in, anywhere within this area.” The Lycan conversed with regality and authority, and everyone in the room nodded in agreement, saying ‘Yes, sir,’ repeatedly.

“If anyone from outside this pack ever behaves in a way that shows they found out I'm not a werewolf but a Lycan, it means someone has revealed my true identity. The consequence for all of you is death! Was I able to convey my message effectively?” He inquired firmly, and they all responded with nods, bowing their heads.

He continuously evaded eye contact, directing his gaze anywhere but towards me.

As I gazed deeper into his expressionless countenance, it grew increasingly intimidating and horrifying.

“That’s all I could say, I think I’m done for now. I've said everything I wanted to express. This is an uncomplicated order, and failure to comply will result in death. Take note of that!” He finished speaking, and they all nodded in agreement, except for me.

I was primarily worried about what would happen to me. He had no intention of mentioning me, his fated mate, as if I didn't exist to him.

With grace and grandeur, he descended the small staircase below the royal seat. Once more, everyone in the room lowered their heads.

“What? Move! Are all of you crazy? Why are you still sitting there with your head down? Who will be responsible for organizing the room where I will be staying?” With a sudden bark, fear gripped everyone in the room, causing them to startle.

“Go ahead, help him! Please go to my room and collect all of my things. Then, kindly give them to him.” Without thinking twice, my dad yelled, causing all the housekeepers to rush out and do their assigned tasks.

I understand that they were simply too frightened to remain in that palace any further.

At that moment, the Lycan finally looked at me, directly on the ground, where I remained seated with my knees pulled up to my chest.

I felt a strong, pulsating fear engulf me, causing me to close my mouth tightly and recoil as I noticed his eyes fixed on me.

It would have been wonderful if his eyes were serene, but unfortunately, they were not. I could only perceive flashes of animosity emanating from it.

“You! Guide me to the garden! Now!” He spoke abruptly, causing me to flinch.

I narrowed my eyes and glanced to the side, questioning if his words were directed at me.

“Yes, you! Are you deaf too, you filthy servant!” He growled, clenching his jaw in complete irritation, so I promptly rose, flinching as my stomach pained me further.

“I apologize, sir.” I muttered sadly, swiftly walking away from the room without glancing back or verifying if he was coming after me.

I never want to lay eyes on him or be near him right now.

“Take your time moving, slave!” He yelled at me and my legs froze in place, tears welling up in my eyes.

‘Why is he referring to me as a slave? I am his mate! And what's the reason behind his request to see the garden all of a sudden?’

I simply desired to flee and keep a great distance from him but I know I couldn’t. He has shattered my heart and destroyed my very essence, piece by piece.

I felt even unhappier at that moment, and each instance of mistreatment or cruelty from my father or Ophelia appeared insignificant compared to the pain inflicted by him, my fated mate.

The sole individual whom I had hoped to love and show concern for me has also turned his back to me, referring to me as a servant.

He showed no interest in inquiring about me, his mate, and my scent was bothersome to him.

Perhaps it would be better if I were to end my life, as this burden is overwhelming.

‘I couldn’t handle what could happen next.’