I found myself staring at the solitary mirror hanging in my modest and unremarkable room. Mary was standing behind me, her words a jumbled mess that my distracted mind struggled to comprehend.

Today was meant to be my wedding day, but instead, I was to be handed over like chattel to the fearsome Lycan king. The mere thought of it sent a surge of fear through my body, causing my heart to tighten with anxiety

If only... 

If only my mom were alive, maybe I wouldn't have to endure this cruel and painful situation that I find myself trapped in. My eyes quickly became filled with tears that I fought to hold back, reflecting the depth of emotions stirring within me.

As the maids had already come in to dress me up and apply makeup on my face while I anxiously waited for my supposed groom, I glanced at Mary's reflection in the mirror, noticing the worried creases on her face. 

In a concerned tone, she pleaded, "Oh, my lady, you don't want to ruin your makeup, please."

"I don't care if I ruin anything, I don't want to get married to that man and I don't want to stay here anymore. I...I don't even want to live anymore, Mary," I whispered frustratingly, the tears were now streaming down my face. Mary immediately came to comfort me and embraced me tightly. 

"Do not worry, my lady. Despite the hardships you face, please remember that you possess an inner strength far beyond what you may believe. Trust me when I say that everything will ultimately be fine."  I looked at her to see her eyes were already teary. 

Am I really that pitiful?

"Of course not, my lady. You're not pitiful. It's just that I understand your pain". She gently wiped the tears on my face.

"Did I say that out loud?", she nodded and gave me a little smile. I sighed deeply and glanced back at the mirror. My makeup was now a mess. I heard Mary crackle a laugh.

"You look hideous, my lady." I quickly glared at her from the mirror.

"Can you do me a favour, Mary?" She quickly nodded. "Just get this whole makeup off my face."

"Gladly." She opened one of my drawers and brought out some face wipes. She wiped my face till it was rid of any sign of makeup, and then she dried it with a towel.

After taking a small amount of powder, she delicately applied it to my face in order to enhance its radiance. As I felt the relief wash over me, a comforting wave of relaxation took hold.

At that moment, I couldn't resist casting a glance at the exquisite royal dress that graced my body. Its ethereal beauty was composed of a harmonious blend of white and ocean blue shades, adorned with intricate silver beadwork that formed elegant designs. I couldn't help but marvel at the stunning attire, realizing that it had been quite some time since I had worn something so breathtaking. 

However, a bitter feeling began to surface as I pondered my father's motives for making me appear presentable. With a hint of disdain and disbelief, I scoffed at the feeble and self-centered thoughts that consumed him, knowing that he was essentially throwing me into a dangerous situation akin to a den of wolves.

"You look absolutely stunning, my lady. Your ethereal beauty is so captivating that it might possibly enchant the Lycan king and leave him utterly mesmerised." I quickly glanced at her and shook my head in response to her statement.

"If this is your way of trying to make me feel better, Mary, then it's not working". She groaned out and hit her forehead lightly.

"I'm being honest here, my princess. Just loosen up a little, okay..."

I was about to reply to her when a knock came from the door.

As I swivelled my body, my gaze fixed on Mary who gracefully moved towards the door. With a subtle motion, she pulled it open, revealing a displeased Jarvis whose face contorted into a scowl upon seeing us.

With a forlorn expression on his face, he inquired, "I've stood here patiently for more than two hours. Have you not finished yet?"

Mary quickly nodded. "Yes, we have."

"Then, let's move. Your groom's people are here." After saying that, he turned around and walked away, leaving me alone with my heart pounding in my chest.

And what does he mean by groom's people?

As I stood up to leave the room, I felt a reassuring touch as Mary gently grasped my hand.

We were now standing just outside the grand throne room, eagerly anticipating the moment we would be granted entry. Overwhelmed by nerves, I anxiously bit down on my lower lip and incessantly tapped my right foot on the cold stone floor. Sensing my unease, Mary held onto my hand tightly, offering a small but comforting smile.

Suddenly, the door swung open abruptly, and we stepped inside. My eyes immediately lowered to the ground, a futile attempt to steady the rapid beating of my heart.

So, is this really happening?

"And here comes my beautiful and adorable daughter." I looked up at my father, where he sat on his throne with a smile on his face. A smile that depicts and masks his inauspicious and devious intention.

"She's adorable indeed, king Philip." I quickly turned my head towards the direction of the strange voice only to find a man donned in an elaborate royal attire making his way towards me. His face was adorned with a warm smile, radiating friendliness and joy.

My breath immediately hitched and I cautiously took a step back. Is this my supposed husband? The formidable Lycan king?

He gave me a small bow when he got to where I was. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you, my princess." He took my hand in his and gave me his warmest and most radiant smile.

My voice failed me, leaving me unable to utter a single word. However, despite my silence, my eyes intently examined his features. Although he appeared to be in his mid-fifties, he possessed an undeniably striking handsomeness that defied his age. I jolted out of my thoughts when he spoke again. 

"My name is Jerome. I'm sorry that my nephew - your groom isn't here as he has much more important and urgent matters to take care of. So, he sent me here to represent him."

I quickly let out a small release of breath I didn't even know I was holding. So, he is not the Lycan king after all? I don't know why, but I let out a little breath of relief.

"That's alright, Jerome, he doesn't even have to be here." My heart churned at my father's words. It was astonishing to realize the extent of his desperation to rid himself of my presence. Feeling a mix of anger and betrayal, I turned my attention towards him, fixating my eyes on him and casting him a glare filled with pure hatred

"I have a request to make father," I stated, turning to fully face him.

"What is it you want my adorable daughter?" I scoffed at his pretentious and fake endearment.

"I would love Mary to follow me to my new home", I said, making emphasis on the new home. I looked at Mary who was looking at me surprisingly. There's no way I'm leaving her here.

"Request granted, you can take more maids with you, if you like," he said, giving me a smug smile but I totally ignored him.

I turned to Jerome and asked, "Can we go now?"

"If you wish, my princess. Lead the way, princess." I spurned around and left the throne room, not caring if any of them was following behind me.

I stood in front of the opulent and grand royal carriage. Feasting my eyes on the intricate carvings and  scrollwork that adorned the body. There were also gilded accents and symbolic emblems that showed that it was indeed a royal carriage.

"I got the things you asked for, my lady."

Mary said, and I gave her a curt nod without turning to look at her. I had told her to get me the charm bracelet and the necklace my mum gave me on my sixteenth birthday and a few other things I would be needing. We didn't pack any clothes as Jerome said we wouldn't be needing them.

"Please take good care of her, she's my only precious jewel." I rolled my eyes at the spurious words my father just vomited. 

Precious jewel indeed!

I turned to give him one last glance, his eyes met mine but before he could say anything I turned and entered the carriage that was now ajar. Mary entered after me and the door was slammed shut.

I turned my gaze towards Mary, casting  a puzzled and inquisitive look in her direction. "Is Jerome not riding with us?"

"No, he isn't. He'll ride in the second carriage with the guards," she replied.

"There are two carriages?" She nodded. "I didn't know that."

"Are you alright, my lady?" She queried, giving me a concerned look and I gave her a smile that didn't quite reach my eyes.

As I cast a quick gaze throughout the carriage, my eyes were immediately drawn to the opulent details that adorned every inch of the space. The plush and lavish velvet upholstery exuded an air of luxury, perfectly complemented by the intricate silver embellishments that added an extra touch of elegance. The delicately lit crystal chandeliers suspended from the ceiling softly illuminated the entire carriage, casting shimmering reflections off the surrounding surfaces. It was impossible not to appreciate the exceptional design and craftsmanship displayed in this stunning carriage.

"This carriage is magnificent and beautiful," I blurted out and looked at the excited Mary.

"I know right...I've never ridden a carriage before, not to talk of one as luxurious and beautiful as this. I'm exa...". The door opened and Jerome appeared before us.

"Hope everything is alright here, my ladies?" Mary nodded at him. "Good, we're moving now." With that he smiled at me before shutting the door. 

As the carriage gradually began to move, I turned my gaze towards the window, acutely aware that this would be my final glimpse of the place that had been my home all my life. It was a place that held countless bittersweet memories, both joyous and sorrowful. A lone tear cascaded down my cheek, its presence swiftly concealed as I hurriedly brushed it away, hoping to shield my vulnerability from Mary's discerning eyes. However, my efforts proved futile, for she immediately seized me in a warm, consoling embrace, whispering soothing words that offered solace to my aching heart.

Will death truly free me from this pain?

As I sank back into the luxurious plush velvet cushions of the carriage, a rush of anxiety and doubt enveloped my heart, weighing it down heavily. 

Beside me, Mary gripped my hand with unwavering strength, her presence offering solace and reassurance in the face of the impending uncertainty. Together, we found ourselves peering out at the vast expanse of the countryside unravelling before us, momentarily seeking a familiar sight or landmark amidst the ceaseless unknown that lay ahead.

We travelled in silence half of the day. We had long departed from the confines of the palace, swiftly passing by intermittent small towns, villages, and an extensive expanse of bushes. Mary, exhausted by our journey, had succumbed to slumber while I remained alert, allowing my thoughts to wander towards the unknown future that lay ahead of me.

What will the Lycan king be like? Will he kill me too just as it was rumoured that he murdered his previous brides?

How will living amongst Lycans feel, worse, staying in their royal court?

A shudder ran down my spine at the mere thought of that. Staying at the palace and suffering in the hand of my cruel father and my witch stepmother would've been better than going to live amongst wolves, but my father decided to toss me to them like a piece of rag.

I huffed out a deep breath and my stomach rumbled to show that it hadn't been fed. I haven't even had a drop of water today. 

I briefly glanced at Mary, who was still deep in her sleep before bending to grab the medium-sized rectangular box under the chair opposite us. I yanked it open and brought out the goblet vessel in it, gulping down the liquid it contained and quenching my thirst. My lips slightly stretched at the sight of the loaves of bread I saw. How thoughtful of Mary to pack them, too bad I don't have the appetite to eat anything. I closed the lid of the goblet, putting it back inside the box, closed it and settled it back where I got it from.

I let out a sigh of exhaustion, feeling the weight of the journey on my shoulders. Leaning back against the comfortable chair, I absentmindedly looked out the window. To my surprise, I noticed that we had already departed from the familiar human realm. The sky had taken on a slightly darker hue, indicating that we were now in a realm beyond. It became evident that this road we were on was not just any ordinary path, but rather a significant crossroad leading to various realms, including that of the powerful Lycans.

Well, yes, we indeed had different realms for various races such as humans, Lycans, vampires, witches, fae, fairies and more. I became knowledgeable about these realms not through personal encounters, but because my mother took it upon herself to teach me about them and encourage me to read books on the subject.

'I am just letting you know more about our world, my dear. It will be useful to you in the future'.

Those would always be her words whenever she forced me to read books about the different realms and I'll grumble about it. Sometimes, I would tell her to allow me to visit these places she made me read in books, but she'll always say that it's not safe for me. 

I sighed deeply, my eyelids grew heavy and I was about drifting off to sleep but I was jerked awake when the carriage jolted forward and came to an abrupt stop, waking Mary too in the process.

She quickly glanced around before looking at me. "My lady, are you alright?" She asked, her tone laced with worry. I quickly nodded at her. 

The door immediately jerked open and Jerome peered at us. 

"I'm actually sorry about the inconvenience but I'll have to ride with you, my ladies," he said as he entered the carriage and sat opposite me and Mary.

"Uhm, did something happen to the other carriage?" I asked enthusiastically, wondering why he suddenly wanted to ride with us.

He smiled at me, revealing the deep hollow on his cheeks. "No, my princess. I'm just acting according to instructions," he said and I nodded not wanting to be too inquisitive.

"How long will it take before we get to your realm?" I asked, adjusting myself on the seat.

"It won't be too long, my princess. We're almost there," he answered simply.

"You can actually call me Larissa." He stared at me for a few seconds before muttering something under his breath.

"What did you say?"

"I said if that's what you want, my prince...ugh...Larissa." I heard Mary stifle a laugh and I looked at him to see him smirking. 

Jerome was actually friendly and easygoing. If the Lycan king's uncle is easygoing like this, would he have the same personality too? Or perhaps he would be the exact opposite just as he was rumoured to be.

"And welcome to the Lycans realm, my ladies." I was jolted out of my thoughts by Jerome's voice. I swiftly turned my head to stare out of the carriage window. We were still surrounded by ancient forests and sprawling mountain ranges. The atmosphere was imbued with an otherworldly ambiance.

The air carried the scent of earth and wildflower. Golden streams flowed through the landscape, reflecting the sunlight. The forests teemed with lush vegetation and I could see a glimpse of caves and hidden dens, which I guess serve as sanctuaries for the Lycans, where they shift into their wolf forms.

So, I am really here? This is the cruel fate life chose to give me? If there was a way for me to just jerk this carriage door open and flee, I surely would do it.  

"This place is enchanting and at the same time..." Mary started to say but before she could finish her words the carriage door was opened.

"And we're here. Welcome to the Lycans' royal palace, my ladies," Jerome beamed as he slowly alighted the carriage and stood by the door,  extending his hands to help Mary and I get down from the carriage.

We stood in front of the carriage facing the palace. The royal palace stood tall and imposing, constructed from dark-grey granite that melded seamlessly with the surrounding forest. Towering stone walls, adorned with intricate moon-patterned reliefs, encircled the palace grounds. Massive double doors, intricately carved with scenes of lycan legends, served as the main entrance. Turrets reached towards the sky, their slate rooftops glistening under the sunlight. The palace was surrounded by a lush forest, vast gardens, and a shimmering moat, completing its aura of majestic power.

"This way please, my princess." I turned my head to see who owns the tiny voice and I was met with a beautiful petite girl.  She typically has delicate facial features and slender body frame, and an overall graceful and elegant appearance.

I looked behind her to see four maids with their heads lowered a bit in a bow.

I swiftly turned to look at Jerome but he was no longer here. 

"Where's Jerome, Mary?" I asked, creasing my brows questioningly.

"I have no idea, my princess. I didn't notice when he left," she answered and made her way into the carriage to get the few things we brought with us.

"Well, he had an emergency to take care of. You don't have to worry, my princess." I glanced at the petite girl that answered my question. She doesn't look or sound like a wolf to me. Not that I can identify one, when I see one.

"Okay," I answered simply.

"My name is Isabel and I'm your personal maid...for the meantime," she said, giving me a smile. "Let me take you to your room, my princess. I'm guessing you've had a long journey and need enough rest." 

I turned to look at Mary who nodded and gave me a smile in return. We followed her into the opulent royal palace. The interior was more magnificent than I had thought. It had ornate decorations, grand chandeliers, and luxurious furnishings. The walls were adorned with rich tapestries and intricate artwork, creating an ambiance of regal splendor.

I was busy admiring the palace that I didn't know we had gotten to another quarter and was standing before a door. 

"We're here, my princess," Isabel said while she opened the door to reveal an exquisite bedroom. We walked into the spacious room that was twice my room back in my father's palace. I scanned around the room, taking note of the high-end furnishings, lavish decor and the plush bedding that could contain three people.

"Is this really my room?" I asked with a surprise laced tone. Why am I being treated nice? I mean, basically I was sold off, I wasn't even expecting to have this kind of bedroom that I couldn't have back in my father's palace. 

"Yes, it's your room. I'll leave you to settle in and rest for a while. I'll come back in an hour to run your bath and take you to the dining hall to have your dinner. Is there anything else you need, my princess?" She asked, looking at me.

"Well, umm...I just want to know if Mary will be staying in this room with me?" The thought of being alone in this big room while in the midst of wolves didn't sit well with me.

"Yes, she'll stay with you for a week. After one week, she'll go to the maids' quarters. But not to worry, even when she goes to the maids' quarters, she'll still be your personal maid. In the absence of anything else, I'll take my leave now, my princess." She quickly turned and exited the room.

I sighed as I made my way to the queen-sized bed. It was actually soft and comfortable. And the room itself offers an atmosphere of relaxation. 

I jerked awake when I felt a hand tapping me. I looked at who it was and it turned out to be Mary. I didn't even realize that I'd fallen asleep. I gently rubbed my eyes and yawned.

"It's good to finally meet you, princess." I  instantly froze on my spot when I heard the chilling and authoritative voice that could bring one to their knees. I didn't even need a soothsayer to know that that was no other person than the Lycan king himself.