The Cursed Luna Beyond Alpha's Desire

Atasha's Point of View

I awoke from a deep slumber, startled by the piercing cries and anguished screams outside. As I rose, a searing heat enveloped my skin, as though our home was engulfed in an inferno.

Through a small attic window, I glimpsed a scene of fire and smoke. My heart raced in terror as I witnessed our neighbors falling victim to warrior wolves bearing the Crimson Moon marked on their shoulders. They were from our rival pack—they were attacking us!

Gasping for air, I stepped back, my mind racing. It was no longer safe to remain here. We had to escape, lest we face decapitation and a fiery demise.

Normally confined to my hidden sanctuary, under the strict orders of our father, Julian Greene, I rarely ventured outside. Ever since my identical twin sister, Astrid, and I turned seventeen, I was forbidden from mingling with the rest of the pack.

My inability to shift, attributed to the Moon Goddess's curse, was the reason my father believed I needed protection. I understood his motives—my father sought to shield us from humiliation and safeguard us from rival packs.

As I reached the age of nineteen alongside my sister, it became clear that my sole purpose was to safeguard my family as the cursed child.

Though I remained grateful to the Moon Goddess for accepting me despite my inability to shift, the burden of my curse weighed heavily on my heart. I had yet to experience the bliss of love like my sister, whose radiant smile had been unceasing since she found her soulmate.

I often wondered what it would be like to feel that joy and share such happiness. In the end, I admired and promised the Moon Goddess that I would protect my sister at all costs. She possessed extraordinary abilities that I lacked, and witnessing her happiness with her mate brought a sense of contentment to my own life.

Yet, deep down, the fear of never shifting and facing a solitary existence haunted my sleepless evenings.

I rushed downstairs and was about to enter Astrid's room when I heard familiar voices from the living room.

I didn't hesitate and went there only to see my twin sister on her bent knees, her palms clasped together as her tears were falling endlessly. She's begging our father for something I didn't have any idea about.

"Please, Papa. Do not trade me away! I am begging you! I don't want to go with them... II ddon't want to leave Alexander! HHe's my mate, for Moon Goddess' sake!" Astrid cried in despair. I almost jumped when I saw how our father slapped her in the face, making her wail even more.

"Stop it, Papa!" I immediately ran and hugged my sister, protecting her from our abusive father. "What the hell are you doing? We're in the middle of a hopeless fight!"

"Who told you to come out of your room, Atasha?!" he yelled with his face so reddened out of anger.

My lips formed a thin line. He doesn't really care even if I end up getting burnt alive in the cage he made for me. What did we do in the past to have such a vicious and heartless father?

"AAtasha, hhelp me! TThe other pack wants to take me! II don't want to go with them. II'm scared. . . ."

"WWhat? What are you talking about?" I caressed her swollen cheeks. She shook her head as her tears couldn't stop from falling. She couldn't even breathe properly. That made me feel the excruciating feeling deep within me. As her twin sister, I can't bear to see her hurting like this.

I turned my gaze on our father. "What's going on that I didn't know? We're being attacked, yet you're hurting my sister again!"

"Do you really want to know what's going on?" He stepped forward and grabbed my arm by force. A small whimper escaped my lips as his grip was too tight as if he was trying to break my bones. "We are all going to die if she doesn't go with the other pack! Their Alpha wants her, and he will give the peace we ever wanted in return. Your useless sister is the only one who can protect us right now, and she's coming with them no matter what!"

"WWhat did you say, Papa? No!" I shook my head and took my arm from his grip. "You can't do that! She's about to get married, don't you remember? She has a mate already! Why would the rival pack's Alpha want to take her? You can't send her away! I won't allow it! Alexander is her–"

"Her mate just died! Crimson Moon's Alpha killed him!" He cut me off, dropping such a bomb that I wouldn't ever want Astrid to hear.

"No! No! Alexander isn't dead. HHe couldn't bbe–" Before Astrid could even finish her word, she lost her consciousness.

"Astrid!" I called her, but she had already fallen into my arms.

Hugging my twin sister was the only thing I could do. The fire was slowly burning our small cold house. Tears started to pool down my eyes as I knew that the situation was too difficult for Astrid. She wouldn't be able to handle the pain of losing her mate... same goes for the sufferings of being someone else's slave.

I am sure that she will be a slave of the Alpha once they take her away... I would never allow that to happen!

"Let me take her." Papa was about to carry her, but I shoved his filthy hands away.

Don't you dare touch my sister! I won't allow you to send her away!" I screamed out of anger.

I glared at him. He inhaled heavily and grabbed my hair, making me scream in pain. "You have no right to tell me what to do! You're just my disgraced daughter! Get off her!"

I hugged my twin sister as tight as I could. It was as if it would be the last time that I would be able to get close to her... as if it would be the last time that I would see her. My tears ran down my cheeks as I felt the sting of pain in my heart.

I have to do something.

I need to protect my twin sister, Astrid. She's my everything...

I kissed her forehead and slowly laid her down on the floor.

"Let me do it, Papa." I let out a deep breath and brushed my tears away before I gazed up at him. "Let me replace her."

His forehead creased. He then released my hair.

"What did you say?" He sounded confused.

I stood up and stared at him bravely. Even though his eyes were smoldering, I didn't even flinch.

"I'll do it, Papa. We have the same face. I bet the Alpha wouldn't be able to tell who is who. He doesn't know that Astrid has a twin sister, does he? So, I will go instead of her. " I sobbed. "And please, don't make things more difficult for her... you know how it felt to lose a mate when our mom died in the war. "

His face softened as if I hit the right spot in his heart. I breathed heavily and looked at Astrid again.

"For once, be a father to my sister . . . from now on, you only have one daughter to take care of. "

The day before the war . . .

Elijah’s POV

“FUCK me harder, Sir . . . Urgh!”

“Fuck, you’re so tight and wet!” I groaned and spread her legs wider for better entry.

Beads of sweat have formed on my forehead as I keep thrusting faster and harder while I am inside her. Her loud slutty moan engulfed the whole guestroom. She grinded her hips to welcome each attack I made and in one big thrust, I cummed and filled her in.

“Ohh, that was amazing,” she said while still catching her breath after a tworound sex. “. . . and unforgettable.”

“I will have an important meeting. You can leave,” I said coldly.

I got up from bed and took my pants on the floor as I smelled my butler’s scent coming into my mansion. I know for sure that my father has sent him again to deliver an important order I need to obey no matter what.

“Can I stay here a bit longer, Sir?” She stood up and embraced me from behind. “You’re dressing up too fast for someone who just had sex a few seconds ago. Aren’t you tired? Can we cuddle for a minute?”

“No, like I said, I have an important matter to attend to. I need you to go now, slave,” I said and then moved her hands away from me so I could grab my tshirt on the bed and wear it.

“But I’m still feeling sore–”

Getting irritated with her childish tone of voice, I turned to her and gave her a warning with my eyes turning ablaze. “I said go!” I snarled, which frightened her. In one swift move, she gathered all her clothes and ran away crying.

I shook my head and ran my fingers through my hair. How could a sex slave demand something more than what they deserve just like that? Women from the Omegas don’t seem to know their places. Those trashes . . . just because the higher ranks have bedded them for minutes, doesn’t give them the rights to demand as if they are royals.

I tossed that thought away upon seeing Joaquin entering the room.

“So he has something to say again?” I curiously asked my butler who doesn’t show any emotion on his face.

The old man cleared his throat before he spoke, “Your father wants you to personally announce your arranged marriage with Margaux tomorrow night at the banquet, as it will be the same night of you taking over the throne.”

“Did I ever agree to that arrangement?” I raised a brow. I can’t believe we are having the same conversation again. “How many times do I have to say that I can be the next Alpha without a fucking Luna? I don’t need a wife, Joaquin.”

Rage started to get into my nerves. Father is too persistent when it comes to this marriage he’s trying to pull off to ensure that being the next leader of the pack, I will appear as powerful in front of everyone and to the enemies who are interested to get the throne. For that to happen, he believes that I need a right woman who can be my Luna.

He thinks that Margaux Deveraugh, the daughter of his loyal Beta, could be a perfect fit, that's why he arranged everything without my approval.

“You know how being a leader works, Elijah. Having a Luna is important to strengthen your leadership. It’s not something you can easily ignore just because you want to. Having a wife on your side is not an addon but a responsibility. You should’ve tried harder to find your mate to avoid this hassle though,” he said and shrugged.

My eyes squinted with his remarks. Does he think I didn’t try enough to find my mate?

“You’re at it again, Quin. Do you think I’m stupid to not try my luck?”

“I’m just saying you should’ve tried harder, Elijah,” he said without any fear that I might beat his ass because of his rude remarks.

My fucking mate isn’t here in our territory after all. I’ve looked everywhere the moment I reached the right age but she wasn’t here . . . as far as I know. The same reason why I stumbled into a mistake of harboring feelings for someone who wasn’t worth it.

My hand formed a fist. Bittersweet memories started to whirl through my head but before they could get into my system, I shoved them all away.

If only my mate was here . . .

I sighed heavily and massaged the temple of my nose. Joaquin was still waiting for my decision, as if his life depends on it. I wouldn’t be surprised by it as I know my father very well. One unsuccessful task makes him furious, which leads to a severe punishment. Even my butler is not an exception to that.

“Where’s my father?” I asked.

“In his home. He’s preparing to go with the warriors. They are going to attack the rival pack today.”

“And he has the time to start another war, huh?” I shook my head and walked past Joaquin.

“Wait, Elijah! Where are you going?” He followed me as I walked towards the double doors.

“I need to talk to my old man. He should stop meddling into someone else’s life . . . especially mine.”

THE moment I stepped into my parents’ premises, I already smelled my old man’s scent coming from the huge garden my mother has been taking care of.

My jaw clenched in anger. I marched to the garden and saw my father in his full armor clothes and checking out the flowers in front of him. I ran towards him in a flash, and was about to throw a big strike on his face, however, he’s faster enough to catch my fist before it landed on him. He then punched me in my stomach with all his might.

I growled and felt the fire igniting inside of me. I fought back and attempted to throw a kick into his head but he easily dodged my movement. My fangs and nails started to grow out. I attacked him again with all my strength. I was able to hold his neck and pushed him into the wet grass.

To my surprise, he laughed and shook his head.

“I didn’t know you still have that strength in you, El. I thought you got weaker when your exlover left the pack after cheating on you,” he said menacingly.

It wasn’t even a big punch but I felt the sting in the inside. Words hit differently, indeed. My lips formed a thin line and released him immediately. I stood up and looked away.

I heard another laugh from him. “You shouldn’t be starting a war against your own father in the first place, son. I totally know where to hit you the best.”

“Shut up!” I glanced at him angrily. “Let me tell you this again, Father. You have no right to meddle with my life. I am not a child anymore!”

“Looks like your stupid butler didn’t succeed with the task I’ve given him,” he said and looked at someone behind me. “You’ll have your punishment once I get back, Joa–”

“He’s my servant. Not yours! And I tell you again, I can be an Alpha without a Luna. I’m not going to marry anyone just because you say so,” I stated firmly.

“Hmm, you said you aren't a child anymore but your actions are different. You’re avoiding your responsibility as a soontobe Alpha. Isn’t it an act of a child?” He walked towards me and patted my shoulder. “Anyway, it’s your birthday tomorrow. You should be prepared to take over the throne and announce your marriage with Margaux. I’ll get back in time and prepare a new slave for you as a gift.”

The side of my lips curled up. “I’ll accept the gift, Father . . . but not the arranged marriage, and that’s final.”

Atasha’s POV

I witnessed a great slaughter as soon as I left our house. Bloods and dead bodies were all over the place, houses were burned by the fire and cries could be heard anywhere. I looked above the night sky and it was aglow with the full moon shining brightly as if the Moon Goddess approved this tragedy.

As I took a few steps while roaming my eyes to the horrible end of our small community, Crimson’s pack suddenly appeared and surrounded me like a criminal being cornered. Some of them were still in their human forms while the others have shifted into their ferocious wolves.

My gaze darted on Alpha Samuel, whose body was beaten up to death, on his bent knees while tied up. Our Alpha got defeated, this means that our pack is doomed.

Two warriors held my arms. I tried to pull them off but they were so strong that a slight move could already break my bones.

“II’ll come with you,” I announced firmly, fisting my hand to get all the courage I needed to face these dangerous wolves. “But you have to do what you promised . . . that you’ll give our pack the peace we want! That there will be no war between us from now on!”

My decision to be Astrid’s replacement is final as this is the only way I can protect her from any harm. If becoming a slave to the new Alpha is the only way I can save my sister, I won’t hesitate even a bit. Comparing her life to mine, hers has more essence.

She needs to live . . . that’s how I love her so dearly.

I looked back at our house. I hope our father will do the right thing this time. I let him escape with my twin sister in his arms so that no one from the Crimson will be able to harm them.

“I like your sudden bravery, young pup.”

A tall man with a ruthless spartanlike physique slowly walked towards me. He was in full armor clothes that scream dominance and power. I didn’t even have to guess who he was. Based on his glowing red pair of eyes, pointed fangs and lethal aura, I know that he’s Alpha Gregory, the old leader of our rivals, which our pack has been trying to defeat, but to no avail.

“I need your assurance, Alpha,” I stated, biting my tongue to fight the fear that’s trying to creep in me. “NNo more wars. . . .”

He touched my chin and made me look up at him. “For now, yes.”

My eyes widened with his remarks. “No, that’s not what my father told me! The peace needs to be perma–”

“Tie her up. Blindfold her eyes and tape her mouth. I don’t want to hear loud whines on our way home,” he ordered in full authority.

From the scent of smoke, down to the scent of mist in the forest . . . chilling road and then the sunlight slowly burning my skin after a long time, it took me hours of walking barefoot until I heard them singing a triumph song, indicating that we reached their territory.

“Slave, welcome to your new hell, the Crimson Moon’s territory,” said by the Alpha who laughed devilishly before I heard the metal gates open.

ALMOST an hour passed and I could still see the darkness of being blindfolded. The Alpha ordered his men to take me in the ‘cage’. My heart was pounding aggressively inside my chest. The hallway where we were walking was so silent and cold that it made me feel so bothered.

One of them walked towards me and finally removed the garments in my head. My eyes immediately roamed around the cell I’m in. Everything is painted black. The little sunlight coming from the window was the only thing that lightened up the place a bit. It’s cold and every wall is whispering death . . .

“Pup, this will be your room, the same place you’re gonna die eventually,” said the werewolf who forcibly removed the tape on my mouth.

I groaned and glared at him.

“Should I be scared now?” I talked back bravely, as I gathered all my strength not to stutter. I don’t want them to see that I am afraid of them. If they see me trembling even a little bit, they would try to scare me more.

A warrior ran towards me and pulled my hair. “How dare you talk back to our Beta that way? You’re just a fuckin’ slave from the pack we defeated. You’re good as a hopeless dog from now on, don’t you know about that?”

“Oh, thanks for reminding me about it. That’s very kind of you,” I said in full sarcasm.

“Brace yourself, slave. The soontobe Alpha will devour you soon.” Beta grabbed the black garment and put it back in my head.

I was just lying down on the cold ground, growing tired as a lot of thoughts were whirling through my head. I stayed there, crying myself to sleep until I heard heavy footsteps walking towards my cage.

I heard them unlocking the cell door which made me get up despite my weak and trembling body.

They entered the cell. My breath hitched when I felt that someone knelt in front of me. And when he sighed, my heart started to thump aggressively.

“What the hell did they do, Joaquin?” He asked. His deep voice sounds ruthless but euphonic at the same time. I never heard such a comforting voice like his before . . .

Who is he? Why does he sound . . . concerned?

He removed the rope tied on my wrist. I was relieved the moment my hands were both freed. His large veiny hands then removed the garment on my head.

"State your name," he commanded as his eyes were still locked in mine; it's as if it's trying to connect through me. I could no longer look at him as I felt beads of sweat on my forehead keep pouring in. My rapid heartbeat is the only sound that I'm hearing right now.

"You heard the soontobe Alpha. State your name, young lady," said the other werewolf behind him, who seems to be his servant. I came back to my senses and tried to open my mouth.

"MMy name is . . ." I swallowed the lump in my throat as I tried to gaze at his piercing eyes. "AAtasha . . . ffrom the Silver Moon pack."

"Atasha . . ." he repeated, which made me more nervous. Why does my name sound endearing when he says it? I want to hear it again.

His cold gaze is screaming danger, complete destruction . . . yet I don't know why I feel a sense of comfort. Something inside me is telling me that I am safe now. But why?

He is the soontobe Alpha, the same werewolf who will own me.

"YYes . . ." I said with my mouth running dry.

"Joaquin, let's walk her to my room so she can take a bath. Call the pack doctor to treat her wounds. She won't heal on her own." The side of his lips curled up; a ghost of a smile escaped from it that made me confused a bit.

Does he know I can't shift?

"You also need to prepare good clothes for her. She's my guest. She'll be joining me in the banquet later."

"But she's–"

"That's an order. She should join us. She's a birthday gift to me, after all.”

An hour before the banquet . . .

Elijah’s POV

“YOU look like someone who will be entering an execution chamber,” said Joaquin, who was helping me with my black tux here in my room. “Try to plaster a little smile on that face, Elijah. Your father has returned and it’s best to hide your disapproval of this arrangement. Be a grown up.”

My brows furrowed as I looked at my reflection in the mirror. At this age, I realized that some birthdays don’t mean to bring happiness but misfortune, typically the same goes for me.

“So you’re saying that to be a grown up, I have to follow his every command like a fucking robot? Are you fucking real, Quin?”

“Sometimes, you just have to man up and face the reality, Elijah. Not all situations would go on your side. There are times you have to forget your beliefs and adjust for the betterment of many.” He patted my shoulder and then sighed.

“Are you done preaching me?” I turned to him and threw daggers on him.

He tilted his head and shrugged. “Done rubbing the truth on your face, birthday boy. Anyway, your mother prepared some presents for you and for Margaux. Luna Hera wants you to give it to her.”

“Whatever.” I shook my head and walked to the balcony of my room to breathe some fresh air.

“And your new slave is already here. Would you like to check on her?”

I couldn’t help but smirk. I can’t believe my father really took someone from the pack they attacked. “So he really brought me a new slave, huh? Interesting. Where did they take her?”

“In the cage on the east wing.”

Present Time . . .

“WE all know that slaves will be only called from their cages, but now you want to have her stay in your room?” Joaquin asked the moment we transferred my new slave into my room. I can see the tracks of her tears from her face, and she is dripping with sweat just by looking at her hair.

“You asked too many questions, Joaquin. Just do what I told you. She will be my guest at the banquet, and that's final.”

He nodded, giving up on whatever it is he's trying to argue about. “I will go ahead and pick up the dress from our tailor. I already called the pack doctor, and he'll be here in no time. I'll be back in a minute.” He said.

“Okay, make it quick. We are running out of time.”

When Joaquin left my room, I looked at my new slave sitting at the edge of my bed. I already told her that she'd be coming to the banquet as a guest on our way here. She will be assisted by Joaquin and get her dressed formally.

“My M..a...Master, I want to get this off my chchest; I think . . . I cannot go with you to the pparty. My family never let me go out, and it will be my... first time seeing other werewolves . . .” Atasha's face turned pale as she said it, then she rubbed the side of her neck.

“I hate repeating myself; just call me Elijah. It’s an order that you must follow. Do you understand?” I remarked in my serious tone.

“ Yes . . . master, I mean . . . ElElijah.”

I massaged the bridge of my nose as I closed my eyes for a bit. This werewoman is a pain in the ass. Hopefully, my plan will work.

When I opened my eyes, I saw the look of confusion on her face. I couldn’t help but observe her. Her whole being does remind me of someone I know, speaking innocence and courage. I'm not sure who it was, but all it tells me is a warm feeling, walking in the woods, running in crisp golden leaves, the earthy scent; it feels like home.

As I glanced more at her, I noticed her amber eyes even though it conveys defiance . . . her nose, and sculpted lips, skin so pale and unkempt brown colored long curly hair due to the torture she received . . . that tiny scar in her neck, yet I must admit she still glows even from a distant.

“I need to leave now. You can take a bath first and wait for the pack doctor. See you at the party, my slave.” I cleared my throat and went to the door.

Before I close the door, my eyes can't help but peek and look at her face.

Elijah, you have to keep your cool, damn it!

I then decided to leave her and walked away. While I was already in the hallway, my mind kept telling me to go back for some unknown reason. I stopped for a moment and had to fight the urge to follow my mind; however, it seemed like my body followed my mind more than my wellbuilt pride, and so I went back to my room so that I could see her again.

My eyes widened like an owl at night as soon as I opened the door. She turned to me and screamed as I saw her totally naked while standing in front of the mirror.

I gulped down as my eyes drifted in her slim yet intoxicating body. Hers is just the same with all other werewomen I bedded, but it seemed like something was wrong with me as I could not stop glancing. I guess I had to stop drinking that forbidden liquor from Quin.

“II’m going to take a bath!” she said as she covered herself using her tiny hands. That made me come back to my senses and look away.

“Hurry up, then!” I closed the door and palmed my face.

What the heck, Elijah?

This isn't the first time I saw a naked werewolf . . . why do I feel so nervous and excited? I scolded myself repeatedly as I walked towards the hallway.

This isn't the right time to play around, I told myself.

AS I stepped into our garden where the banquet would be held, I already felt all the eyes glued to me. It is uncomfortable at first, but I need to get used to it as I will be the next Alpha after this day.

There were some hot werewomen, and they looked like they wanted to have some fun with me, but as soon as I started getting excited, my father approached me with my fiancee Margaux.

“My son, I want to introduce you to your fiancee, Margaux Deveraugh.”

“I already know her, so let's cut the formal introduction, shall we?” I said and gave Margaux a cold stare.

I didn't feel any fear as she looked me in the eyes. She then smiled seductively, the same smile I see from most of the werewomen who want to end up in my bed.

“It's been a while, Eli. You never changed. You're still the coldhearted guy I know. But I must admit you look even more handsome this time,” she said in her soft voice.

“You two should catch up a bit. I need to join my Luna to welcome some of our friends from the allied packs. I'll excuse myself for now.” Father smiled sincerely to Margaux, and when he turned to me, I instantly heard his voice in my head.

‘Treat her well,’ he said as his mind linked me.

I shook my head and let him blend into the crowd while looking for my mother. Margaux then cleared her throat to get my attention.

“Happy birthday, Eli. This one's for you.” She handed a small box to me. I accepted it and led our way to one of the VIP tables.

“I appreciate the present.”

We casually talked . . . I mean, she kept talking, and I only answered when needed. The banquet is just starting, yet I feel the urge to go back to my room. I bet it would be much interesting to talk to the new slave rather than staying here with this werewoman who's exposing her motives too early.

Margaux Deveraugh is a headturner, sexy, and her aura is powerful among the single werewomen out here. However, despite her impressive physique, I still don't feel anything for her.

Minutes passed, and I started talking to the other werewolves who greeted me. There are other royals from the other packs which came and gave their respect to us.

It's closed in the evening when the food is served. My father then went on the stage and was ready to make some announcements.

I was looking around and still did not see my slave. I felt worried as I did not know what had happened, and probably my butler knew my plan and sided with my father. If that's the case, I'm screwed.

I clenched my jaw as I watched my father finish his speech. Our eyes locked afterward. . . I guess I need to accept my fate, to marry someone I didn't like at all.

Suddenly, I saw a stunning werewoman walking inside the garden. She caught my attention as other werewolves were also looking at her and asking who she was. My feet moved on their own, and I ran towards her as I saw Joaquin holding her arm.

AAtasha!

I could have sworn that my breath hitched upon seeing her in the champagnecolored long dress. She looks stunning . . .

I grabbed her hand and ran towards the stage. My father was confused as he looked at me. I stopped in the middle of the platform and faced the crowd, still holding Atasha's hand.

Different packs looked at me with confused faces. Old werewolves are whispering, and some of them locked their eyes to my slave.

“As the soontobe Alpha of the Crimson Pack, I'm here to proudly announce that I already found my Luna,” I proclaimed confidently.

I turned to her. I must confess, her face looked charming when she had this sweet naive look . . . I smiled inwardly and held her waist so I could pull her towards me.

“Mate . . .” I whispered and leaned in to kiss her soft lips.

A loud gasp from the crowd occupied the garden, but I can hear more clearly the piercing heartbeat that I also feel from her chest.

Atasha’s POV

MY mind was completely haywire as I couldn't seem to grasp what was happening. The soontobe Alpha, Elijah, wanted me to join the banquet for an unknown reason. One thing's for sure; this will be my very first time attending a banquet; for a moment, it felt like I'm a normal werewolf.

Another thing that bothered me the most was that he saw my naked body earlier . . . when I think about it, I can't help but feel the heat engulfing my face. I can't erase that scene from my head; I wonder if he finds me attractive? I grabbed the pillow and shoved it in my face.

What the hell was I thinking? By his reaction earlier, it looks like he doesn't even see me as desirable like other werewomen. But since he will be an alpha, I wonder what will happen to me if he already found his Luna?

Someone knocked on the door. Joaquin entered the room while holding a beautiful dress, and he is with the pack doctor.

After the pack doctor treated my wounds, Joaquin gave me the dress, and he waited for me outside. I was still hesitating with the idea of intruding in that party, but Joaquin said it was Elijah's command, and I had no right to defy him. I believe that Moon Goddess has a plan for me; no matter what happens, I will protect my family.

I wore a champagnecolored long offshoulder dress. My curly hair was braided perfectly, and my face became livelier because of the makeup that the housemaid put on it. As I glanced at my reflection in front of the mirror, different emotions started to whirl inside my chest. Is this really me?

For someone like me who was held captive, and with the fact that family is still in danger out there, I am not certain if it's right for me to go to a party and act like nothing really happened. I fisted my hand and gasped . . . I wish Astrid is safe wherever they are right now.

"It's time," stated Joaquin in his cold tone.

I breathed heavily, nodded, and turned to him. We went out of Elijah's room and headed to the hallway that would bring us to where the banquet would be held.

"Just follow the other guests going to the banquet. I have to go check the gates to make sure no intruders will come. Please wait for me at the entrance once you're there. "

Before I could speak, Joaquin had already made his way somewhere else. I shook my head and embraced myself. What should I do now?

I continued walking and tried to blend in with the crowd who were walking in a wide hallway. They were all dressed formally like royals. My eyes roamed around the interiors and paintings on each wall. As I walked together with other guests, the echoes in the hallway would be heard because of the chats from different packs.

What I noticed with them is that they have this aura of peacefulness and calmness, which I found bizarre as I always think of them as destructive and ferocious beasts. Their demeanor was pleasing to my eyes, and it's hard to comprehend as someone from a poor family, and I have never seen the world like this before. Their territory was completely different from ours, as we're like commoners living in rural rustic land.

While I was walking, I accidentally collided with someone. It was a beautiful werewomen, and she just simply nodded and smiled; I was not able to apologize right away because it left me speechless of how stunning she was. While I was looking at them, I then realized that even if I tried to blend in, even if I dress like them, there's really a huge difference between rich packs and me. Despite the fact that I'm invited here to the banquet, the truth is... I don't truly belong here.

I was about to head to what seemed to be a huge garden when I saw a passage on the far left side from where I was standing. The thought of escaping made me feel stiff. I stopped moving, contemplating while looking at that dark passage . . . what if there was a way out there?

I gazed back at the entrance of the vast garden where the banquet was being held. Joaquin hasn't come back yet, and with the heavy crowd in here, I assume no one would notice that I left.

The face of the soontobe Alpha crossed my mind. I inhaled heavily as I couldn't seem to understand why it felt as if I would lose my breath if he heard that I had escaped . . . as a matter of fact, he's not an important werewolf to me. He's still . . . an enemy. Trust should not be given to him, especially to his family. I must know if they're telling the truth; I need to see my family.

I swallowed the lump in my throat. I stepped back and ran into the dark passage with my heart thumping so loud. I kept looking back as I ran, afraid that someone might have seen and chased me.

Your family is more important, Atasha . . .

I reached the end of the passage. My disappointment arose when I realized that I had entered a greenhouse filled with exotic plants and flowers. I slowly walked into the place, hoping that there might be a door but to no avail. I looked up at the ceiling and watched how different butterflies glided as if they were dancing without any worry.

How could I even escape from this place? I sighed in defeat and sat on the wooden chair. I embraced my knees as I lowered my head. Silence engulfed the whole place and somehow brought peace in me. I stayed there for a moment, seizing the peacefulness as if I won't be able to do it after this day.

I couldn't help but feel worried about my twin sister and my father. At the end of the day, they're all that I have. I'm also hoping Astrid will be fine as I'm unsure if I will be given another chance to see her. I hoped they really fulfilled their promise that they would not hurt them. As I watched the butterflies, memories flashed before my eyes, walking in the mountains with a lovely warm feeling, the shade of autumn that felt like home.

As I came back to my senses, I looked at my wrist and caressed the bracelet Astrid gave to me.

“Guests aren’t allowed here, werewoman,” a raspy voice suddenly spoke that startled me.

I turned to the man who had gray eyes, a perfectly sculpted nose, lips and jaw, and long blonde hair tied up half. Fear started to creep into my system as he glared at me.

“I . . . I got lost. II’m sorry!” I said with my quavering voice.

Without further ado, I walked past him, but my heart almost jumped in fear when he stopped me, holding my arm in an instance. His hands, though, were warm and gentle; my skin felt his soft fingertips as they slipped through my hands.

“A beautiful werewoman like you shouldn’t wander here all alone. No one can be trusted in this place,” he said as his piercing eyes glanced at me. He then smiled, “Let me escort you to the banquet–”

“NNo, please . . .” I panicked. “II’m completely fine alone,” I said and removed his hand from me.

“I haven’t seen such beauty before. I assume you’re not part of the Crimson Moon . . .” he stated playfully.

“No, and I am only here to protect my family.” After that, I ran away from him and went back to where I was supposed to go.

“Where did you go?” Joaquin walked towards me as soon as he saw me. His brows furrowed. “You look so pale. What happened?”

I shook my head. “II got lost and had to find my way back here.”

Based on how he looked at me, I knew that he wasn’t that convinced with my reason, which made me feel agitated.

“I suggest you not do anything that will make your situation even worse. The banquet has started for a while. Let’s go,” he said coldly and made his way to the party.

I bit my lips and sighed. I followed him, and I started to blend into the crowd of royals.

The sight of the soontobe Alpha and a beautiful werewoman by his side made my chest feel so heavy. I was just around the corner, trying to observe how Elijah looked at his partner. She might be his Luna . . .

Almost an hour passed and I remained low profile. I didn’t know how to interact. That's why even though there were werewolves trying to exchange conversations with me, I ended up avoiding them.

I saw Alpha Gregory entering the stage and making his speeches. Just by looking at his face that screams of greediness, I couldn’t help but feel the disgust for him . . . no, I despise him because he’s the main reason why I am here . . . My hands were literally shaking out of anger by only watching him. I had to hold my wrist and make a fist.

I gasped when I noticed that my bracelet wasn’t on my wrist anymore.

“Where did it go? Oh, no,” I mumbled. My gaze landed on the floor, trying to find my precious bracelet. It was Astrid’s gift for me . . . that’s the only remembrance I had from her! I can’t lose it, too!

I walked to the other corner where I’ve been too but was interrupted when someone grabbed my hand.

I turned to the owner of that hand and my eyes widened upon meeting Elijah’s soulful gaze. A ghost of a smile and hope lingered on his lips that made me breathe heavily. Despite the unfamiliar emotion he’s making me feel, it bothered me that a lot of eyes were on us . . .

What is he trying to do?

“WWait, EElijah!” I whispered when he dragged me onto the stage suddenly.

Being on a stage was like a dreadful experience for me. I looked at Elijah who caught everyone’s attention. I felt how he held my hand tighter and then the next thing I knew, he announced to everyone here that he had found his Luna.

My mouth was half open when he turned to me.

“Mate . . .” he uttered and pulled me closer to him.

I was about to protest, but then in a flash, I already felt his soft lips claiming mine. My heart pounded more aggressively, and my knees went jelly because of what he did.

That was my first kiss!

His persistent mouth parted my shaking lips and sent wild shivers down my spine. He tilted his head, and his other hand caressed my cheek. A rushing wave of warmth left me stunned. It's as if everything went blurred, and I was drowning into wide oblivion. I was about to withdraw from him, but the way he snaked his arm around my waist, it was as if he was telling me that I had to cooperate.

I was completely out of breath after that unexpected kiss! I tried to compose myself as his gaze was still at me. Shocked by what had just happened, I blinked several times and eyed him in confusion.

"II am your new slave, not your fiancee or LLuna . . ." I whispered enough for him to hear.

"You don't feel it yet, but my wolf does." He licked his lips which sent another sensation deep within me. I looked away and saw how the crowd was still in shock because of what they had witnessed a few seconds ago. I stepped back and cleared my throat. My eyes darted on his father, who was eyeing me accusingly; he was throwing a dagger as if I ruined the night when in fact, his son dragged me into this . . .

"May I know who the hell she is?" A beautiful werewoman then suddenly grabbed Elijah's arm and pointed her finger at me as if I was a criminal at this point. In my mind, as I respond, I'm not here to steal him from you.

I was about to run away with them when I heard someone whistling. The crowd turned to the familiar werewolf who was walking charismatically on the stage. My brows furrowed as he was the same werewolf who talked to me in the greenhouse.

What caught my attention was the thing he was holding in his hand . . . my bracelet!

"Zach, you're here?" the beautiful werewoman said.

He walked past her and went straight to me.

"I think this is yours," he said.

A smile of relief escaped my lips, and I walked towards him. He stopped in front of me and took my hand. I gasped and looked back at Elijah.

"This bracelet symbolizes your inclusivity to the Silver Moon Pack." He put the bracelet on my wrist. "Take care of it. I know it's important," he stated and kissed the back of my hand, which made me stunned.

He then stood proudly and leaned forward enough for him to whisper something into my ears, "If you want to save your family, please remember that you can count on me . . ."

I slowly turned to him. He smirked and then walked away, leaving me completely dumbfounded.

Atasha’s Point of View

THE banquet ended quickly as Alpha Gregory was truly upset about what had just happened. His disgusted stare towards my face made me want to run and hide, but there was nowhere to go. I can't blame him, though. The Alpha's plan was ruined by his son. To control the damage that Elijah and I did, he then declared to the crowd that everything was a huge misunderstanding.

Some groups were muttering some words as they heard from the strange blondehair werewolf Zach that I was from their rival pack. I remember all the looks that were thrown at us, but Elijah didn't seem to mind it. He was still holding my waist and slowly walked away from the crowd.

Elijah was still holding my hand when he dragged me back into his room. He immediately locked the door, and I was only looking at him, waiting for the words that would come out of his mouth.

He sighed in relief, hid one hand inside the pocket of his pants, and gazed at me with his piercing eyes.

"I bet you're confused," he uttered huskily and walked towards me.

I could have sworn that I felt as if I was being electrified by his intense gaze. It was too much to handle that I had to look away. I breathed hard and reminded myself that I had to be in the right mind right now and that there was no room to fancy this man who seems to be bringing another nightmare in my life!

"What was that all about?" I asked as I gathered all the remaining courage I had. I swallowed the lump in my throat and fisted my hand to chuck out my fear. “Is this a kind of suffering you do to your slaves? Do you see how mad everyone in your pack is? Especially your father?”

“They are not important. Also, why do you even care?” he asked in his cold tone of voice.

I gritted my teeth and gazed back at him. His brows were furrowed, and his jaw slightly clenched as his piercing eyes continued to look at me.

"AAm I really your mate?" I asked him with a voice crack. Regardless of his response, there’s a small voice in the back of my head that would like to ask him, even though I already know what the answer is.

A ghost of a smile was evident on his reddish lips. He licked it before he spoke, “No, you're not . . .”

I chuckled a bit, shook my head, and looked down on the ground. I’m fucking stupid; of course, he is lying. I’m not even sure how I came up with the idea to ask that question.

“You're just a mere slave, not my mate. What happened at the banquet was all part of my plan.”

“As I expected from the son of our rival pack’s Alpha . . .” I whispered as I looked at him with disgust. “WWhy did you do that? What are you planning? YYour father was furious —”

“I don't care about how he feels. I want him to stop manipulating my life. Listen.” He held my shoulders and breathed heavily. “Go along with this, and I can assure you that I will protect you no matter what happens. You can avoid the sufferings you could get as a slave if you cooperate with me. I need you to act in front of everyone. You will be my contracted Luna, Atasha.”

As he spoke those words towards me, his eyes were flaming with wrath, which made me uneasy.

I was still in disbelief when I heard how a son acted this way towards his father. He is ruthless. He didn’t understand that his father was only doing this for his own sake. Whose father is so cruel that they manipulate their child’s life?

“Elijah, your father, only wants the best for you. I think this is a bad idea!” I burst it out and looked at him directly. I couldn’t tell his reaction by looking at his face. He turned around and removed his shirt.

My face turned a crimson hue as I scanned his broad shoulders, biceps, and all the way down to his lean, sculpted Vshaped back.

“Notice the tattoo on my back?” he asked. I came back from my senses and looked at it. “It’s a moon with a king’s crown. What does it mean?” He turned around and slowly walked towards me; his hands snaked to my waist, and his eyes melted me with the look of sorrow. Why do I feel like I've seen this before?

“I’m also a slave of my father . . . and we’re just the same.”

He then picked up his shirt, walked away and closed the door. After he left, I immediately sat down on the edge of the bed near me. The room felt bigger now that he left. I caught my breath and slowly got up and opened the windows to get more refreshing air.

No matter how I tried to clear my head, even the fresh night breeze didn’t help. I sighed and decided to fix myself in the mirror. My mind couldn’t help but to remember Elijah’s face and what he said.

I only finally came to my senses when I discovered that the scar from my neck, which the pack doctor had predicted would heal in two weeks, had already disappeared.

THE next day was like a nightmare to me. Simply sitting at a dining table together with Elijah's parents made me want to vomit. I couldn't stand the face of the werewolf who slaughtered my entire pack and brought me to this hell. Thinking also of working with Elijah makes me upset about this situation.

I bit my tongue to discard my rage as I knew there was a right time for it. I looked around and saw how lavish their lifestyle was. It was ultimately the opposite of how our small pack lived in the woods. There was a giant portrait of their family hanging on the wall. The ceilings were filled with ancient paintings that looked like their ancestors. There was no doubt that they were filthy rich. What destroys me is that this is because of their wrongdoings and their cruelty against our pack.

The Alpha who's greedy of power while his son is—

“...we’re just the same.”

Those words from Elijah entered my mind for a second. He was also a tremendous liar. Not at all, Elijah. You are born with a silver spoon in your mouth, whereas I am not.

I then looked at him, and he acted like nothing happened yesterday. A heavy silence engulfed the whole dining room, and the only thing I could hear was the sound of their utensils as they ate.

Elijah was seated beside me and almost done with his food. I couldn't believe he still has the appetite after the problem he created last night.

“Our marriage should be arranged soon," he said, breaking the silence on the table as he stood up. I looked at him, and he was eyeing his father sternly.

I heard Alpha Gregory heaved a huge sigh. I glanced his way and saw the dismay and anger in his eyes. He turned to me after a few seconds. “It's not something you can decide with. First off, I need to see if she is worthy of being part of this family.”

My forehead creased because of what I heard. What was he thinking? I then looked at Elijah, whose jaw keep clenching out of anger but still trying to hold back.

"Listen, father, she's my mate. I don't think proving herself is a must at this point. You want me to be the Alpha, correct?"

“I apologize for bursting your bubble, but it is a must to prove that she’s capable of leading, El.” Alpha Gregory wiped his mouth using a table napkin and looked at his son dangerously. “I will give her a test to see if she’s deserving to be your wife, and make sure that she can shift to a strong werewolf as I need a strong Luna for you who will lead our female members and would bear pups for the future of this Pack," he said and then looked back at me. "If all else fails, then you must marry Margaux."

My heart sank, and my hand began to quiver against my bouncing knee as I tried to calm myself down. It was Alpha Gregory's gaze that was sending me a threat that I couldn't ignore. If it all fails, does it mean that I will be free? But knowing the Alpha, as long as I'm here in their domain, my life will be in peril.

He wants to see me shift into my wolf form. How could I possibly do that? Never in my adolescent life had I experienced the shifting. I was cursed by the Moon Goddess, and I don't possess any wolf inside of me!

My eyes glanced at Elijah, whose tiny beads of sweat had started to form in his forehead. His jaw was clenched sternly as his hand began a fist. I sensed that he knew that I couldn't shift, probably he would surrender now to his father. I think this is the best decision for us.

“Go along with this, and I can assure you that I will protect you no matter what happens.” I then remember these words coming from him last night. I didn’t know why, but whenever I think of those words from Elijah, my heart feels so heavy. It gives me a bit of a sense of hope. If I sided with him, his father would punish us both once he finds out about this stupid plan, and of course, I would take more harm than Elijah because I'm just a slave.

As I stared at Elijah, his words lingered in my mind once again.

“...I’m also a slave of my father, and we're just the same.”

I swallowed the lump in my throat. It took a few seconds for me to gather the courage to hold his fisted hand. His gaze went down to our hands. I heaved a huge breath and stood up, still looking at him with small courage that was backing me up. I then faced his father, ignoring the fact that my knees were quivering so severely.

“If that is the only thing that will put you at ease, then I have no reason to decline. I accept that test, Alpha . . .” I said, raising my head with confidence. “I’ll prove to every one of you that I am worthy of being Elijah’s Luna.”

I heard Elijah's mother gasp. Alpha Gregory seemed to be surprised by my statement but cleared his throat after a while. He then nodded his head. “What a courageous slave . . .”

“She agreed. Let her prepare herself for that test, whatever that is. Give her a month to study—”

“Five days,” Alpha Gregory stated as he cut Elijah's words off. “I will give her five days to prepare.”

Elijah cussed out of frustration. He looked at me, and I could see how worried he was. By his stare, I knew that he was aware that it was impossible for me to be able to prepare for the test . . . and for the shifting for only five days.

But we were already in this situation, and I didn't want to be a laughingstock by everyone only because I didn’t try hard enough to deal with Alpha Gregory’s condition.

“Sure thing, Alpha. I appreciate you being considerate,” I uttered, trying to hide how nervous I was right at this moment.

The truth was, I had no idea where this sudden burst of confidence had come from. The feeling I had was as if my intuition was telling me to continue with this, that even though I was aware of my inability, I had no choice but to prove my worth.

Atasha’s Point of View

After our lunch, everyone left except the Alpha and Elijah as both of them talked about the test that I was about to face. Joaquin assisted me to go back to my room and wait for Elijah.

I pressed my burning face with both hands as I walked through the hallway going back to my room. Part of me was humiliated on what I had done earlier— speaking up and standing to something that God knows what. I was trapped in the world of two devils . . . and I think I was losing my sanity.

Why Atasha? Why did I do that? But the good thing was that I switched with my sister. I can’t put her in this terrible dilemma. She didn’t deserve any of this. I clung to my bracelet and hoped against hope that she was okay with my father. When I arrived at my room, Joaquin didn't say anything and simply walked away. I let out a sigh. Nobody could help but wonder what was going through everyone's heads right now.

I suddenly realized that I seemed to have accepted to be Elijah’s Luna. No, that’s wrong— contracted Luna was the right way to describe my function in this role play. I lay down on my bed and could not erase the face of Elijah in my mind as I kept on seeing him even as I closed my eyes.

As I was about to sleep, I heard footsteps coming from the outside of my room. The door opened, and I saw Elijah, but his face seemed to look odd. I stood up and was about to ask him what would happen next, but he pinned me down on my bed. The way his eyes slowly drifted down to my body. My whole system trembled with embarrassment. What was he thinking? This was not the right time to do such a thing knowing that we were in a terrible situation with his father. Was he getting desperate?

I realized that probably this was his father's will to test if I can bear pups? My head was aching as I was trying to comprehend what could possibly go wrong.

“Worrying doesn't change the outcome for both of us,” he said with a slight grin on his face.

Based on his words, he can read what was going on in my mind right now. He slowly bent forward to the skirt of my dress and kissed my right leg, gradually going to my thighs. I felt the tip of his tongue lick my inner thighs, and my legs were being gently stroked by his hands. Each kiss he made sent shivers all over to my spine.

He got up as I tried to draw force and kick him away. Elijah’s both hands held my shoulders, and it was a strong push that I shouted in pain as my back hit the wooden headboard. His hands then traveled through my hair all the way to the back of my neck.

“I’m craving for you. I want a taste,” he whispered in my ear.

I felt his big chest pressed against mine as he was already on top of me. His hands gently snaked through my back, and I felt every inch of his fingers caressing my skin. His body seemed to have crushed mine, but my body signaled that I wanted him too badly. This was wrong but felt so right at the same time.

I was fluttering as I could feel his breath from his mouth and nostrils. I couldn’t help but look at his lips. In a split second, he kissed me torridly. This kiss that I had shared with him right now felt different compared to the kiss we had at the banquet. It stung me that I was craving for more. . .

“So, you want more?” he whispered, and he removed his shirt. I gasped as I looked at his body. He grabbed my hand and put it on his chest, down to his abs. My hand went to his crotch as my heart throbbed faster inside my chest. I felt how hard he was.

“Remove it,” he asked, pertaining to the jetblack boxer he was wearing. It’s quite a big bulge as I saw it.

I was shaking so badly out of nervousness. I hadn't seen one before, but part of me wanted to see what was inside that piece of cloth. As my hands were inch by inch going to his boxer, he grabbed my hands and tied them using his shirt. Both of my hands raised, and I got pinned down to my bed.

“So is this how badly you wanted it?” He smirked.

I was rudely awakened from a vivid dream by a loud knock at the door. I got up from bed, catching my breath as I looked around the four corners of this room.

That was just a . . . dream?

“What the—” I ran my fingers through my hair and gently slapped my cheeks.

What the hell was going through my head? That was such a bizarre dream!

“Atasha!” I heard Elijah’s irritated voice from the outside.

“CComing!” I yelled back, my voice becoming so hoarse that I had to clear my throat many times. “What the hell, Atasha . . .” I slapped my cheek again.

I stood up and walked towards the door to open it. I then saw Elijah’s irritable expression. His brows were wrinkled and lips formed into a thin line.

“What were you doing?” he asked me, annoyed, as he entered the room and sat on the couch.

“I ffell asleep,” I answered. When I looked him in the eyes, I was immediately tormented by the dream I'd just experienced minutes ago. I blinked twice and tried to direct my gaze away from his direction.

This is very humiliating, Atasha!

“Your face is burning red. Did something happen?” he asked curiously.

“NNo, I really—” I caressed my nape and slowly glanced at him and then looked away. “...just fell asleep.”

I was taken aback when I heard him chuckle. My heart pounded violently against the inside of my chest. In fact, I couldn't figure out why my entire body appeared to erupt in response whenever he was around. This was like a sensation that I had never experienced before.

Could it be that I was restless for these past few days, that's why I was being hunted with weird dreams?

“Sit down here, Atasha.” He patted the available space beside him on the couch. “By the way, on what you did earlier, thanks . . .”

Did he say thanks? This was strange to hear from him. It was nice to know that there was still a good little side to him. He may have thought that I was able to save his sorry face earlier.

He snapped his fingers in front of me and stated, “We'll start creating a plan for us to make sure you pass that test.”

I swallowed hard and gazed back at him again. He was looking at me as if I was a child that needed to be carried to school. Well, he was correct. I could not have a decent education, knowing my background that I’m a cursed child.

He looked so determined that he even came up with a plan for this situation. I wonder what it will be.

It was difficult to get the vivid memory of that bizarre dream out of my head, but I managed to do it with a sigh and a deep breath.

“I want a taste of you,” I whispered and Elijah looked at me with his eyebrows furrowed. "Oh, I said . . . It should be a great plan. Otherwise, I'm dead!" I shouted with panic as I sat beside him and carefully stared at his face, hoping that he didn't hear what I said to him earlier. It was very humiliating!

"You don't need to worry; we're on the same boat,” he said and then I saw the despair in his eyes.

Atasha's POV

The next day, I noticed that my eyelids were a little too heavy. I couldn't get a good night's sleep because I was worried about the test that I had to take before being accepted as Elijah's soontobe Luna. Most importantly, I couldn't stop thinking about my loved ones, especially my twin sister Astrid. It had been days since I had last seen them, and my chest was clenching in pain from the agony of fear.

Elijah and I went to their manor's study, which was quite spacious. If this had been a typical day in my life, I would have wandered around the bookshelves, looking for good books to binge read. But this wasn't just an ordinary day as this situation I had was starting to get more serious. No matter how hard I tried, I couldn't stop myself from being consumed by my dread. I know I would be unable to function properly if I didn't have even the most basic knowledge of my family's whereabouts.

I looked at Elijah, who appeared very preoccupied as he collected a few books. I leaned my back on one of the bookshelves and observed his every move carefully.

"Elijah?" I called him.

"Hmm?" He read the front page of the book he was holding before he glanced at me. "What is it?"

"Do you have any news about the Silver Moon Pack after the battle that happened days ago?"

I wasn't sure whether I was dreaming or hallucinating, but I saw a ghost of pity straight through his eyes, and I was not sure why.

"There has already been an end to the conflict between our packs. In the event that you're worried about your family, I'm sorry to say that I have no information or knowledge of their whereabouts."

His lips twisted up in an attempt to grin. His head was cocked to the side as he moved towards the study table, gesturing for me to follow him. The fact that he dropped so many books from his hands made me feel completely overwhelmed.

"So, in order to get started, you'll need to be a serious bibliophile," he said in his authoritative voice. He handed me a sizable goldcolored book. "That book will teach you all you need to know about becoming a Luna. You will better understand your fundamental obligations as my wife if you read it. You also need to study social etiquette and, of course, leadership concepts which is the essential thing you must learn."

I examined each page of the book and saw right away that I was going to have a problematic period of learning. "Do I have to read all these books that are sitting in front of me? We have only five days to prepare. Do you think I can do this?"

He couldn't keep a smile off his face. As I stood there watching him giggle like a kid, my mouth remained open. He'd never laughed like that before, and it was my first time seeing him do so. But no— this wasn't the right time to fancy his happy version, Atasha! Was this an amusing circumstance for him?

"Really?" I came off annoyed this time. I felt insulted, and he probably thought that I was too stupid to learn all of this in five days. As expected from the soontobe Alpha, he didn't know that our packs were too poor to be in school, and I could not finish my studies because my father kept me at home for years.

"You're so miserable." He then shook his head, still wearing that boyish smirk on his lips. "You have nothing to worry about, and I already have someone who could help you study."

My forehead creased as I looked at him. What did he mean by that?

"You'll have a tutor so things would be easy for you, slave," he added.

I was about to ask him who would be my tutor when the door banged open that stole our attention. When I saw the familiar face of a lovely lady in a white longsleeved top and an apricotcolored pant, my eyes widened a little. Because she had her hair pinned back, it accentuated the form of her little yet captivating face.

"Oops, did I interrupt something here?" She walked gracefully and stood next to Elijah with an alluring smile.

I knew who she was. I've seen her face before. I tried to remember where I first saw her. “Right! That's why you look familiar to me. You're the beautiful lady that I collided with from the banquet!" I then realized that I was becoming too excited that I sounded so informal in front of her. "II apologize if I was too talkative."

She smiled at me. "You look very interesting. That answers my question why Elijah's investing so much time with you." She then glanced at the werewolf beside her. "So, did you inform her already?”

Elijah nodded, his gaze still fixed on me. "Atasha, I would like you to meet Veronica. She will be your tutor for the next 5 days and will help you digest these books quickly and effectively."

“RReally?” I asked in awe, then looked at the lady named Veronica.

She raised one brow and crossed her arms against her chest. “It's a pleasure to finally meet you, Atasha. As your tutor, I would like to inform you that I will be strict and that I expect you to grasp each learning as quickly as possible. Otherwise, you'd end up losing your head because if you don't succeed, the Alpha will decapitate you in an instant."

Her remarks were almost as though they were cutting me to the core. The surge of excitement that had rushed through my veins had gone away. By this point, the only emotion I could muster was terror. I was terrified that I would fail since failing would mean that my existence would be lost forever. The truth was, it wasn't easy for me to fake these emotions in my head, realizing that too many lies would be hard for me to distinguish what is real and not in the very end.

Atasha’s Point of View

I thought studying was fun, like what Astrid had told me before. But being stuck in this study room with my tutor felt so suffocating, tiring, and discouraging all at the same time. I had been reading the first philosophical book she assigned to me for two hours, and Veronica gave me a test right after that.

Sitting on my chair uncomfortably with my fingers interlocked on my lap, I felt her dismayed stare at me upon checking my test paper. From the books that I have read, one that struck me the most was about their moral beliefs, about having harmony within packs, but if someone criticized the standards of their own way of living, they were treated as a threat and should be vanished in the face of this world, as they believed the only right way was to follow the great Montreal bloodline.

Everything that they were teaching was about protecting the lives of each of everyone by preparing for them to war. But if their primary goal was peace, why do they need to engage in war in the first place? In order to achieve harmony for the packs, to terrorize another is the answer? These questions kept swirling through my mind as I flipped through pages.

Montreal's bloodline was vital to keep the werewolves from achieving peace and order. Also, they believed that it would be a threat to every pack if Montreal's bloodline interacted with the cursed blood of a werewolf whose pack came from the dawn.

It was believed that the Kolgrims clan of Witches, and Wizards advised the great Montreal that the threat of the Crimson Pack would be from that group. My headaches worsened as I kept on reading. It was impossible for me to grasp everything!

I missed the days when I could just sleep the whole day If I wanted to.

Alpha Gregory can kill me now . . .

Well, about my test. I tried my hardest to answer the questions that were meant to measure my academic abilities. I simply felt like it was impossible to answer it for fifteen minutes, even if I tried. After all, who would assign a fifteenminute time limit for a student to answer the test?

"All of your answers here are incorrect!" Veronica burst out of frustration as she scratched her head. She looked at me as if I was an impossible case to resolve. Shaking her head, she said, "I guess this plan will never work out, huh?" She then threw the test paper on the table, which made me gasp. "I know for sure that this plan will fail. Do you know why? That's because you're very stupid."

But again, we were only studying for two hours. She should not have expected an outcome ideally from someone who never experienced attending school.

“I’m . . .” My mouth was left open. I wanted to say something, to defend myself against her rage, but I felt so little as she narrowed her eyes and looked at me with such disapproval. I ended up biting my lips and then looked down at my fingers.

"I will report to Elijah about this, keep on reading," Veronica said, and the next thing I knew, she walked away and left me alone in the study room.

I sighed, acknowledging my failure. Was it really necessary for her to be so cruel? Sure, I was aware of my own shortcomings, but I had the impression that we weren't doing things correctly. Was there another way aside from answering reading and answering tests? Is there anybody else out there that wants to be a Luna who has gone through the same thing I am? I feel sorry for them.

Minutes passed, and the door opened once again. It was no other than Elijah. Seeing his wrinkled brows, I knew I would face a difficult conversation with him. He took a few steps towards me. He leaned forward and glared at me, his hands resting on the table in front of him.

"Atasha, do you think you can do this?" he asked coldly.

"I did my best answering the test paper. I know I have a lot of incorrect answers, but I can just memorize the right answers, and I believe I'll be good, is that correct?" I said, hoping that he would go easy on me. Probably, I'm giving a false hope as he looked at me, worried that I can't push it through.

"Yes . . . of course. But if you were dumb, to begin with, then I doubt you can memorize it all," Veronica stated as she entered the study room once again.

I inhaled heavily. My eyes glanced in Veronica's direction, who crossed her arms against her chest. I know Veronica was right, but I am not simply giving up. I stared back at Elijah, who was still looking at me impatiently.

"Okay, can you promise me one thing?" I fisted my hand, still looking at Elijah. "Once I pass all these tests, you will find my family and make sure they are alive and safe." My eyes locked through him, waiting for him to answer.

"You are not in the position to negotiate and give commands. After all, you are nothing more than just a mere slave.” Veronica made a scoff.

"Alright, it's a deal then." Elijah stood up and smirked at me.

I managed to force a grin onto my face as I realized I had the strength to endure this ordeal. He would track down my family as soon as I passed the test, which meant I had to do all I could to succeed in this crisis, no matter how difficult the situation seemed.

For Astrid, for my father, for the Silver Moon Pack.

Veronica shook her head in disbelief. "You know what? You guys are both dumb."

Joaquin then entered the room and looked at Elijah. “I left the liquor in your secret chamber. Also, I see that you're able to master the dream telepathy. Even in my dreams, you can now hunt me—”

While Joaquin tried to say something more, Elijah looked at me with an odd face; he quickly went in Quin's direction and aggressively covered his mouth and uttered, "Shh! Be quiet, don't mention dream telepathy, Quin! Also, We're in the middle of a study session; Veronica will be mad at us!"

Joaquin then apologized, and he went out of the room with Elijah as Veronica shouted to both of them to get out.

“Hey, Atasha.” She grabbed my hand towards her. “I want to let you know that if you can't pass this exam, you will not be able to go to the second test. So it means this plan of you and Elijah is bound to fail, so don’t even try.”

It was also unfair for Elijah to be with someone he didn't love. However, has he already found his mate?

If the Montreal bloodline is sacred, I completely see why his father responded in such a violent manner. This was done solely for Elijah's benefit. Marrying Margaux was the only answer to this mess.

"I'll do my best and move forward," I said with conviction.

Veronica's eyes widened, and she bit her thumb while looking at the pile of books. "Why do you even try so hard? We all know the outcome of this," she said.

I showed her my bracelet. “It's for my family's sake.”

Her face gloomed after that response. "Do you think family matters? and how about your own life?" Veronica then looked back to the pile of books.

The silence occupied the room as I tried to gather my thoughts to answer her question, a strong wind blew against the open windows, and it seemed to me that silence was the ideal answer at the time. I adore Astrid from the bottom of my heart, and I desire to be someone as wonderful as she was one day.

I remembered the days when we were together, whenever someone from our pack mistaken me as Astrid, I'm flattered as to what I also wanted to be like her. Though our similarities are only by looks somehow, the sense of pride from me that she was considered as one of the great werewomen in our pack made me feel motivated to be like her someday.

Veronica stood up, turned back, and left a sigh. But before she left the room, I gathered my thoughts and courage to voice out my thoughts. “Unlike you, I was not born to have the riches. I have nothing in this world but only them. My sister Astrid, is the person I looked up to. If they were gone, my whole life would be meaningless.”

I felt the hand of Veronica from the top of my head. As the wind kept blowing from the window, the pages of the books flipped.

"Okay, then let's see what happens next. Get some rest.” She removed her hand from my head and walked out to my room.

While I continued reading and studying, a familiar werewolf entered the room. If my eyes serve me right, this is Zach. How was he able to enter here? His finger was lifted to his lips, as if to indicate that I should be silent.

“Come with me,” he said as if it was a command rather than a statement.

As I hesitated to come with him, he then reminded me of the words he said to me at the banquet.

“I am the last card who will save you,” he uttered.

With that, I slowly nodded and stood up to come with him. While we walked past the hallway, I found it odd that he was not saying anything at all.

I gasped when he suddenly held my hand and pulled me. He pushed my back against the wall, and his musky scent invaded my nostrils while his body was pressing against mine. My mind imagined things that I should have not.

I then remembered my bizarre dream. I shook my head to throw away those ideas. Because of that dream, I couldn’t help but to picture it right now with Zach. While we were holding this position for a minute, I heard the guards footsteps walking past us, it felt like we were not allowed to be seen together at this time, especially in this place.

"Atasha, I want to show you something," he whispered through my ear. I looked away as he was trying to glance at me.

What is he trying to do now?