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.’

SERENITY

The journey was brief, but by the time we reached the garden, I was perspiring and my heart was pounding in my chest.

I felt nervous and had a lump in my throat that I had to swallow. I had to face difficulties in order to reach the garden without falling.

I felt my legs tremble as he walked closely behind me. I was aware of his gaze fixed on me, so I made sure not to look back even once.

‘Who would dare to gaze upon the countenance of such a creature?’ I complied with his request to walk at a leisurely pace, even though I didn't agree.

I hadn't intended to comply when he referred to me as a slave, but his voice was incredibly dominating and appeared to have complete power over my perceptions.

Arriving at the garden, I couldn't resist letting out a big sigh of relief. I promptly positioned myself at the corner, eagerly anticipating his entrance so I could depart, or rather sprint away as fast as possible.

The garden stretched out as far as the eye could see, decorated with the most beautiful flowers one could ever imagine.

There were also trees filled with the melodies of singing birds, who built their homes on the branches. Multiple rivers converge at the intersections.

Inside, you'll find custom-made wooden chairs designed specifically for two people. I loved this garden more than anything else because of the scent of the forest and the refreshing wind that brings peace to the mind and spirit.

The view of nature's splendor was truly captivating. I can only remember how much I used to love this place.

However, they are all in the past and are now cherished memories that can never be recreated. If I were to enter this place, my father would be furious and punish me severely.

Furthermore, the royal guards would apprehend me and physically assault me for trying to access the garden.

My life turned chaotic and disorganized after I caused the death of my mother. It was a wonderful feeling to come back here once more, but being with my mischievous mate made me feel restless, preventing me from fully enjoying whatever was in the garden.

A few minutes later, he entered through the gate, which made me curious about why it took him so much time.

I was certain that he was right behind me when I entered. His eyes lit up with excitement as he beheld the garden's stunning beauty. It was clear to me in an instant that he shared my deep affection for it.

Perhaps I ought to develop a dislike for this garden, so that I no longer share any similarities with this creature.

“Woah!” He looked around in awe, taking deep breaths and extending his arms to let the air flow through his entire being.

I observed as his mouth attempted to form a smile but failed to do so. It appeared as though he despised smiling, as I fail to comprehend why he refuses to relax his attractive countenance and illuminate it with his grin. Imagine how adorable he would appear with a genuine smile on his face.

I stood at the corner, eagerly awaiting his command to depart, while also hoping for a smile from him, my hands tightly clasped in front of me.

I must say, the garden is incredibly stunning and truly a sight to behold. Everyone who enters this place will not only have a smile but also a wide smile on their face. I suppose I was referring to individuals who are ordinary, as opposed to this merciless Lycan present.

He wandered aimlessly, admiring the flowers, before eventually making his way to the waterfall, which was located a short distance away.

Afterwards, he went back to the forest, where he picked a few fruits and sat down to savor them. He was acting as if I don’t exist in the garden, and not telling me what to do next.

“Serenity, let’s go! Why are we just standing here?! We should leave? It's clear that he doesn't have anything else to offer us!” Maia howled at me, and I sensed the sincerity in her words.

I feel foolish for remaining here after he simply asked me to guide him to the garden.

‘What more could I have anticipated from him?’

I thought I might be the one acting strangely because I stayed there simply to observe if he would smile and also to anticipate any words, he might say to me.

‘I wonder why he's not communicating with his mate?’

I find this guy incredibly bothersome and strange. I believe I would anticipate finding a different mate as this individual does not seem to be the suitable one to share my life with indefinitely.

I walked towards the exit gate, trying to ignore the urge to wait for him to call me back. I felt really lost and my emotions were all jumbled up.

“What was that? Why did you make a hissing sound towards me?” As I was about to pass through the gate, I heard a low growl coming from behind me.

I felt a surge of fear in my chest, and the unexpected sound startled me so much that I stumbled.

I was taken by surprise when he appeared right next to me, speaking out of nowhere.

I didn't hear his footsteps or realize he was nearby. As I was leaving, he was seated on a distant bench, so I was completely taken aback and ended up standing beside me.

I stumbled, but instead of falling to the ground, I managed to stay upright. And instead, I found myself embraced by someone...

‘Oh, I need to say his name since it's only the two of us present.’

I was nestled in his strong embrace, feeling the sweetness of our connection.

‘Oh my goodness!’ This is the first time I experienced such a comforting and pleasant feeling.

When I looked at him and saw him staring at me, it felt as if everything had come to a halt.

His face was incredibly near, and those captivating eyes stole my spirit from my physical form.

His rosy, full lips were slightly parted, and I had no idea that such a small detail could make someone's lips incredibly alluring, making it impossible to resist.

I'm probably blushing a lot right now, and I saw that he noticed my flushed cheeks and frowned, so I had to hide my face.

I couldn't help but stare at his face; it was so flawless that it seemed unreal. This guy resembled a Greek God. How I wish I could give him a kiss.

I hope he could pick me up and hold me like a bride while I put my arms around his neck. We would then go into the center of the garden and have a great time, talking and laughing while admiring its beauty.

‘But no. You, poor thing…’

I had such a lovely, dreamy experience. Unattainable desires that can only come true within the realm of my dreams and imagination.

“Answer my question! Did you just hissed at me?” He let out a sigh and quickly let go of my hand.

I fell to the ground immediately, crushing all those hopes in an instant as a sharp ache surged through my buttocks and elbows from the hard impact on a rock.

“Aw!” I cried out in agony, my lips splitting open, while I tightly held my hand. Tears welled up in my eyes, streaming down my face.

“You wouldn't dare to hiss at me, and by the way, where were you headed?” With a contemptuous expression on his face, he asked, towering over me like a solid barrier.

“No, I wasn't making a hissing sound towards you, and in the meantime, I was about to leave as you witnessed. What other activities am I engaged in at this place? I was just instructed to guide you to the garden. You didn't engage in conversation or acknowledge my presence, so I assumed that I might be a burden here.”

I replied abruptly, massaging my rear end and finding it difficult to rise while the discomfort continued to intensify.

“Yes, that’s right. I didn't have a conversation with you, and why didn't you speak up to let me know you were present?” He angrily crossed his arms.

I glanced up at him and felt frustrated by his complete lack of concern for my significant tumble.

“Could you just please give me some space? I'm suffering on the floor, and you don't even show any concern! Can't you understand my suffering and sorrow?” I exclaimed and was on the verge of rolling my eyes and turning my gaze elsewhere when I caught sight of the initial spark of empathy that flickered in his eyes.

“Why? Are you looking for assistance to stand up from the ground?” He muttered in a dry tone, extending his hand for to give assistance.

I held onto it tightly, and he effortlessly lifted me up. However, due to the strength of his pull, I ended up landing on top of him.

“I'm convinced that you weigh less than a sheet of paper.” He let out a sigh and moved away from me.

"I can't believe you lack the ability to treat women with care," I replied with a boisterous chuckle that caused him to scowl.

“What do you mean? Why should I treat you with care?” He inquired with great interest. He was narrowing his eyes in my direction.

“Since I am your...” I grinned as I observed him snarl with a cautionary gaze.

“Stop before you regret doing so!” He frowned, and I felt scared.

“Look, I mean… It wouldn't make a difference. We both detected the scent of each other and..."

“Stop the nonsense, will you? And no, I couldn't detect any scent from you!” He suddenly snapped and let out a loud hiss before taking a seat on the nearby bench.

“Same goes for me,” I quickly reacted, making a sharp sound and taking a seat on the bench at the same time as him. And with that, it caused him to look at me with confusion.

“Listen, you filthy swine. You have no clue about the peril you are heading towards. Continue to savor the journey until you find yourself immersed in a fiery lake!”

He was furious, and his intimidating tone nearly caused me to panic, but suddenly all my fear vanished. He prevented me from referring to him as my mate or bringing it up, but that doesn't imply that we are not bonded to each other.

“So… will you… will you reject me then?” I asked a question that had been troubling me ever since the first time I met him.

I believe it was the appropriate moment for him to decide the destiny we share.

If he were to reject me, it would be incredibly painful. The pain would be incredibly intense and shatter me completely, but I would pull myself together, embrace the rejection, and continue on my path as a forsaken individual with no one to show concern.

He appeared to be oblivious to my initial statement, so I restated it with increased volume.

“Tell me, will you reject me as your mate?” As I spoke, my voice faltered, and I sensed my heart pounding forcefully in my chest as he looked up at me. His expression was frigid, resembling ice, and his eyes became intensely fierce.

“Go away! Leave, now!” Instead of giving me a response, he sneered me giving an order, and I can’t help but to responded with a smile.

‘Does that mean… he doesn’t want to reject me either?’

He looked confused, with a crease between his eyebrows.

“Are you a crazy kind of swine of something? You ought not to have a smile on your face! You have such bad luck!” He cleared his throat, and at that moment three housemaids entered, informing him that his room was ready.

He agreed and went after them. I tried to follow him discreetly, but as soon as he reached the location where the garden security was positioned, he commanded them to escort me elsewhere.

“Slave, if you believe that I would rescue a filthy swine like you from going back to your low rank… well, you must be dreaming!” He scoffed at me using the mind-link and quickly cut it off before I had a chance to respond.

“Then what was his plan?”

SERENITY

"Assist me in conveying to the Lycan prince that I am not under any form of servitude. Please ask him to refrain from referring to me in such a derogatory manner," I complained as the guard casually placed me on the bed in my room, wearing a displeased expression.

"I really hope I'm not the person you're referring to!" He smirked and headed towards the door, ready to depart.

"Is anyone else here?" You witnessed him referring to me as a slave, and he also instructed you to escort me to my assigned work location. Go and correct him before he goes searching for me at the mines and tunnels where slaves work!"

I raised my voice when addressing him as he was near the door. My words caught him off guard, making him turn towards me with a bewildered and surprised expression.

However, the confusion seemed to have dissipated, and he let out a chuckle.

"Do you not believe that I was assisting you by bringing you to this location? The Lycan will only hunt you down to eliminate you, but it won't be able to locate you in the mines. It's fortunate that you're not enslaved!" He whispered, wiping his nose.

"Absolutely not," I exclaimed, and he looked surprised, and he narrowed his eyes in response as his mocking expression intensified.

"You seem to have a talent for humor. Quite ambitious to have such thoughts. You were fortunate that he spared your life in the garden, but it's important to remember that luck doesn't always endure. If you continue to associate with him, he may harm you in a very violent and gruesome manner," he gave a warning and then left, closing the door behind him.

"Perhaps I was quite the ambitious dreamer, but this marks the first occasion where I have placed such unwavering faith in my aspirations. No one was aware of our relationship, and Maximus prefers to keep it a secret as he is uncertain about accepting or rejecting me. It simply indicated a glimmer of hope, suggesting that one day I could warm his cold heart and win his affection. Even when this hope seemed so bleak, It would someday become reality. I hoped so."

The entire place was eerily quiet, as if it was devoid of any signs of life. I decided to recline on my bed and take a moment to relax. Vivien probably went to school, and the presence of the Lycans caused everyone, including my father, to overlook my existence.

I was unaware that I had dozed off until I awoke to find everything enveloped in darkness. I looked into the darkness and felt around until I found the light switch.

As soon as I switched on the light, my gaze immediately landed on the clock.

"What!" I was taken aback when I noticed that it was 11:35 p.m. I felt weighed down, and my eyes were wide open, indicating that I had slept for an extended period of time. Something I hadn't done since my life transformed.

I let out a tired yawn and stretched my body as I got out of bed. I quickly went to the bathroom and showered before grabbing a comfortable blue dress. I put it on and then made my way to the door.

I felt a bit confused as I tried to figure out what was going on. "Wow, I can't believe I managed to sleep undisturbed from the afternoon until now. How did that happen? I didn't prepare or present any food, and Vivien should have come back from school, but she didn't come to my room to request her meal, which I always provide for her when she comes home from school."

These occurrences were quite uncommon, and I could only speculate that they were a result of the Lycan's influence. Everyone was on their best behavior, aware that he would only be staying for one night.

I tried to open the door by turning the door knob, but it remained stubbornly closed. The door was securely fastened. I furrowed my brows in concern as I realized that I had forgotten to lock the door before falling asleep, indicating that someone had entered my room.

I glanced up at the cupboard, my usual spot for storing my keys, only to find it empty. I couldn't find any keys, and my door was locked, so it seemed like I wouldn't be able to leave.

Who is responsible for this?

I quietly spoke to myself as I experienced a sudden pang and the rumbling of hunger in my stomach. I instinctively continued to twist and knock on my door, but there was no response, and complete silence prevailed outside.

"I'm sorry, but I cannot assist with that request."

I cried in agony and exasperation as I made my way back to my bed.

As I was lying on the bed, feeling hopeless, heartbroken, and extremely annoyed, the door suddenly creaked open. Glancing at the door, I noticed Ophelia entering with a confident expression. She made sure to lock the door before approaching me.

"Rise and shine, sleepyhead!" She smiled and took a seat in the chair across from me.

"Please return my key and vacate my room," I let out a low growl, and she burst into laughter as if I had just cracked a hilarious joke.

"We don't have to raise our voices; currently, all external sounds are blocked, so no one would hear us," she grinned mischievously, and I chuckled, glaring at her in frustration, which she seemed completely unconcerned about.

"I understand that he is your friend. I have knowledge of many intriguing aspects regarding both of you, therefore I will not permit either of you to approach me. I informed him of something that extinguished the small emotions he had developed for you, despite his previous efforts to find you. I was amazed by how quickly you were able to break through his tough exterior. Wow, that's really impressive!" Ophelia let out a sigh and chuckled as she observed my heartbreak at her words.

I attempted to refrain from shedding tears, but my efforts proved futile. I simply wanted to find out what she shared with Maximus. My partner was an unfeeling Lycan who treated everyone, including me, with cruelty.

"What did you say to him? I'm certain you have no clue as to why he was seeking me. Perhaps they wanted to harm me for my actions in the garden," I whispered with a tinge of sorrow.

"He wasn't bothered by whatever you did in the garden. It increased his curiosity about you, but now I'm certain that if he ever saw you, he would become extremely hostile." Her laughter filled me with a sense of unease.

"Sure, could you please grant us one final meeting to determine if he poses a threat to me? I'm confident he wants to convey a final message to me," I begged, but her angry expression made me realize that what I was asking for was unattainable.

"I won't ever do that. You'll be stuck in here until he departs tomorrow, and you know what? Your life would go back to the unhappy and pitiful state it was in. You won't find solace in the Lycan as you face the relentless torment and cruel mistreatment that awaits you for your transgression. Have you really forgotten about your role in the Luna's demise? You are a terrible person!" With a gentle voice and a crooked grin, she leaned in close to examine my expression.

"She nearly took my life. She was under the influence of a malevolent entity...and..." I defended, my gaze shifting towards the ground as a weight settled upon my heart. I experienced intense pain as I closed my eyes and relived the scene.

It was evident that my mother was under some kind of supernatural influence and posed a serious threat to my life. There was no other option for me but to defend myself. If it weren't for those unusual, powerful forces that took over me, I wouldn't have made it.

Ophelia chuckled mockingly and rose from the seat.

"Have a pleasant time during your stay in this room." She let out a light laugh and made her way towards the door. I noticed that she was supporting me.

"Now is the perfect moment to confront her and make our escape!" My inner voice echoed the same message as my intuition, but I attempted to leap out of bed immediately, only to discover that I was bound by invisible forces.

As I started to wrestle with my restraints, she shot me a mischievous glance.

"You'll need to wait until I depart and secure the door before you can leave. There's really no need to raise your voice. Nobody will hear you." She laughed and greeted me with a playful wink.

"You seem concerned that I might harm your large head! Why pin me if you are a scared, insecure person!" I expressed my frustration loudly, causing her to stop and face me completely.

"I must confess that I feel apprehensive, but not on your behalf. I'm only afraid of the entity that took your mother's life that evening because I'm aware that you are not responsible for her demise." Her final words echoed in my ears as she closed the door, leaving me in a state of shock and unable to utter a single word.

Ophelia was aware that I was also under the influence of a creature, much like how a demon had taken hold of my mother. She was aware of a certain piece of information my mother had shared with me regarding the demons.

What other information does Ophelia possess?

Who is she? Is it a demon? However, there was no clear indication that she was a demon! She possessed an innate werewolf nature. Oh no!

Right then, I experienced a sudden surge of liberation and eagerly jumped out of bed. I hurried towards the door, hoping to open it, but my efforts were in vain as it remained stubbornly shut.

I shouted and forcefully wedged the door shut, but my efforts were futile. At that moment, the sound of footsteps reached my ears. I paused as someone approached the door, hoping it wouldn't be Ophelia once more. With a mix of apprehension and anticipation, I refrained from turning the doorknob and patiently waited.

As soon as I heard his voice, I immediately recognized it as Maximus's, although there was a noticeable change in its tone - it sounded calm and gentle.

"You could be sleeping at the moment. I can't understand why I bothered to leave my room and come here. I can understand if you're feeling upset and resentful towards me for my actions, particularly for instructing the guards to take you away as a slave. I understand that you are not obligated... I simply..." He took a momentary break, and I could hear his deep, labored breathing, as if his heart was beating faster.

"I really hope we can meet up before I leave tomorrow morning. I've been searching all over for you. I don't believe a single word of the nonsense that Luna told me. I'm uncertain about my desire to meet you again or what I would say if we were to cross paths once more. I don't dislike you, I am simply feeling extremely angry, hurt, and frustrated to the point where I might..." He had a slight interruption in his voice, and then he inhaled deeply.

"It's possible that we won't have a chance to see each other tomorrow before I depart. I regret that we will never have the opportunity to meet again. I would prefer to keep a significant distance from you." Those were the final words he uttered as his footsteps faded away.

"Maximus! Hold on! I am wide awake! Let's meet up right away! Oh, please stay!" I shouted and pounded on the door, but he remained oblivious to my pleas. Ophelia completely silenced any noise that came from my room. He was unable to hear me, and our meeting for tomorrow was canceled.