Chapter 5 ENCOUNTER WITH THE KILLER

As the full moon celebration drew nearer, the various kingdoms began to make preparations for the esteemed event. The Fangoria Kingdom, despite the absence of its Alpha, was no exception. Under the capable leadership of the queen, who had taken the reins in the Alpha's stead, the kingdom was abuzz with activity.

Rituals were being meticulously planned and prepared, and the entire kingdom was immersed in a flurry of tasks. From the gathering of rare herbs and flowers to the construction of elaborate ceremonial structures, every detail was being carefully attended to. The queen's wise and balanced leadership ensured that the preparations were carried out with precision and dedication, setting the stage for a memorable and meaningful celebration.

Seated before her prayer altar, the queen's countenance was etched with worry as she besought the heavens for her son's safety. Four long weeks had passed since he had embarked on his perilous mission, and the silence had been deafening. With a quiet intensity, she prayed, "Oh, gracious morning, please keep my son safe."

As she sat in contemplative silence, the queen's mind wandered to her son, her thoughts a jumble of concern and unease. How was he faring? Had he encountered any dangers? Did he look well? She hoped that the whispers of the forest, with all their ancient secrets and mysteries, were not conspiring against him.

Her reverie was interrupted by the soft creaking of the door. "My queen, the elders have arrived to see you," a maid announced quietly.

The queen's eyes fluttered open, and she composed herself. "Tell them I will be with them shortly," she replied, her voice calm and measured.

The maid nodded and withdrew, closing the door softly behind her. The queen took a deep breath, steeling herself for the meeting with the elders, who had undoubtedly come to discuss the impending full moon festival.

MEETING HALL

A loud, resonant voice boomed through the grand hall, announcing the queen's arrival. The elders, seated in a semicircle, rose to their feet and bowed their heads in reverence. The queen glided silently to her throne, her presence commanding attention.

"You may be seated," she said, her voice calm and authoritative.

The elders resumed their seats, their faces solemn. "My queen," one of them began, "we bring news regarding the full moon celebration, which will take place tonight."

The queen's expression remained serene. "I see," she replied quietly.

The elder continued, "In light of the Alpha's absence, we have deemed it prudent to increase security measures to prevent potential external threats on this sacred night."

The queen nodded thoughtfully. "Very thoughtful of you," she said, her voice tinged with appreciation.

The queen's expression turned inquiring, and she asked, "What other preparations are underway?" Her tone was calm, and she seemed to be making a conscious effort to set aside her worries, at least for the moment.

One of the elders cleared his throat before responding, "As you are aware, my queen, the formal celebration also marks a time-honored tradition where mates who have been chosen are formally acknowledged." He paused, his eyes locked on the queen's.

"I'm aware of the procedures," the queen replied with a gentle smile.

The elder's face lit up with excitement. "We have wonderful news, my queen. This time around, a large number of our villagers have found their mates and are eager to formalize their bonds during the full moon celebration. We must ensure that our security measures are robust to make this night truly unforgettable for the couples."

The queen's expression turned thoughtful, and she silently wished that her son would one day find his own mate and experience the joy of love.

"That's indeed wonderful news," she said, her voice filled with warmth. "It signifies not only the growth of our kingdom's population but also the expansion of our families. I'm delighted to hear this."

The elders nodded in agreement, their faces beaming with smiles.

"Ensure that our security is impeccable," the queen instructed. "Provide the pack hunters with new weapons and have them train rigorously every day to prepare for any potential threats. I will meet with the shaman this evening to discuss the plans for the rituals."

"I believe that concludes our meeting for today," the queen said, and the elders nodded in agreement.

Just as they were about to disperse, one of the elders cleared his throat. "My queen, if I may be so bold, don't you think the silence from our Alpha is taking too long? Shouldn't we have received some sign by now that all is well?"

The queen's expression turned somber, and she felt a shiver run down her spine. The elder's words had brought back the worries she had tried to set aside. "I, too, am worried about my son," she admitted, her voice laced with concern. "I wish we could communicate with him, but alas, it's impossible."

The elder's face was filled with empathy. "Please, my queen, do not worry. We, the elders, will seek a solution to consult with the Alpha and ascertain his well-being. We are confident that the heavens are watching over him and keeping him safe."

The queen was grateful for the elder's thoughtful words. "Thank you, my esteemed elders. I leave it in your capable hands to find a solution. I will take my leave now."

The elders bowed respectfully as the queen stood up and departed the hall.

As soon as she was gone, one of the elders spoke up. "Our queen is far more capable and compassionate than that...individual who was appointed by the Alpha to oversee us."

The other elders nodded in agreement. "Indeed, if he were in charge, the full moon celebration would likely be a lavish waste of resources, with no thought for the well-being of our people."

The elders shared a knowing smile, grateful for the wise and caring leadership of their queen

LYKON ROOM

Seething with anger and resentment, he paced back and forth in his dimly lit room. Ever since the Alpha's departure, he had been relegated to the shadows, his former power and influence all but forgotten. The kingdom's inhabitants no longer regarded him with the reverence and fear he once commanded.

His mind racing with malevolent intentions, he pondered the best course of action to reclaim his former glory. "What can I do?" he muttered to himself, as a plethora of sinister plans swirled through his mind.

Initially, he considered visiting the shaman, but then thought better of it. "I need a solid plan before approaching that cunning old man," he thought, his eyes narrowing in calculation.

A wicked smile spread across his face as he identified the sole obstacle standing between him and the power he coveted: the queen. "Once I eliminate her, the elders will be forced to acknowledge my authority once more," he declared, his voice dripping with malice.

With a sense of purpose, he gathered a few belongings and locked his room, setting out on a journey to consult with the shaman. The wheels of his sinister plot were in motion.

Lykon entered the shaman's residence, fortunate to find him preparing for a ritual in front of his altar. The full moon celebration was fast approaching, and everyone knew the shaman would be busy with preparations.

"I greet you, Shaman," Lykon said, and the shaman turned to face him, a warm smile spreading across his face.

"Ah, Lykon! Please, wait for me in the inner chamber while I complete this sacrifice," the shaman instructed, and Lykon complied, taking a seat in the inner chamber.

As he waited, Lykon pondered the best way to present his sinister plan to the shaman. A few minutes passed before the Shaman finished the ritual and joined Lykon in the inner chamber.

"Ah, my son, how are you?" the shaman inquired, noticing Lykon's worried and angry demeanor.

"I am not fine," Lykon replied, his voice laced with malice.

"What seems to be the problem?" the shaman asked, his brow furrowed in concern.

Lykon's expression turned bitter. "You assured me that once the Alpha was sent on that perilous mission, I would be in charge."

The Shaman nodded. "Yes, I did promise you that. But tell me, what went wrong?"

Lykon's anger boiled over. "The queen intervened, throwing me out of the meeting with the elders. Since then, I've been relegated to the shadows."

The shaman's expression turned thoughtful. "I see. And what is it that you want me to do for you now?"

Lykon's voice dropped to a whisper, his words dripping with malice. "I want to kill her."

The shaman's eyes widened in shock. "What? Kill the queen?"

Lykon's eyes gleamed with malice. "Yes, I want to kill her, to gain full power and control over the kingdom."

The shaman's expression turned incredulous. "How can you even suggest such a thing? Killing the queen is a taboo, a heinous act that would have far-reaching consequences. And have you considered the impact on her son, who loves her dearly? He will be devastated when he returns from his mission to find his mother dead."

Lykon's face remained impassive. "That's not my concern. I want her eliminated, and I want to be in charge."

The shaman shook his head. "I won't be a party to this. I refuse to help you commit such a vile act."

Lykon's eyes narrowed, his voice taking on a menacing tone. "If you don't help me, I'll march right to the palace and reveal your plan, including the lies you told about the mission."

The shaman's expression turned pale, and he held up his hands in a placating gesture. "Okay, okay, wait. Let's not be hasty."

"Okay, what is it that you need my help with?" the shaman asked, his voice measured and cautious.

"I require a potent poison," Lykon replied, his eyes glinting with malice. "One that will eliminate the queen without leaving any evidence that could be traced back to me."

The Lykon expression turned grave. "A potent poison, you say? Very well, I'll need some time to-"

Lykon's voice cut him off, his tone stubborn and unyielding. "I want it now, and I want it here."

The shaman eyes darted nervously around the room before he nodded slowly. "Very well, I'll prepare it immediately with the necessary ingredients."

With that, the shaman rose from his seat, leaving Lykon alone with an evil smile spreading across his face.

Lykon's laughter echoed through the room, his eyes gleaming with malevolence. "I love this aura of power," he declared, his voice dripping with satisfaction.

A few minutes later, the shaman returned with a small, delicate bottle in his hand. "This is the poison," he said, his voice low and serious. "Add it to the queen's cup of coffee or tea. Ensure she drinks it, and the poison will take effect. Then, await the results."

Lykon's face lit up with a sinister smile as he carefully accepted the bottle. "Thank you, shaman," he said, his voice dripping with insincerity. "I won't hesitate to reciprocate this... gesture of goodwill you've shown me."

"Just so we're clear, I was never a part of this plan," the shaman whispered, his voice barely audible.

Lykon's cunning smile never wavered. "I'll keep that in mind," he said, his tone dripping with insincerity.

As he turned to leave, he found himself face to face with the queen. "Your Majesty," the shaman stammered, his eyes wide with shock.

The queen's gaze narrowed, her eyes darting suspiciously between Lykon and the Shaman. "What is he doing here?" she demanded, her voice firm but laced with a hint of unease.

Lykon launched into a smooth, rehearsed speech. "I came to wish the Alpha a safe return and to offer prayers for the kingdom's prosperity, as is fitting with the approaching full moon celebration. Am I not right, Shaman?" He flashed a charming smile, carefully concealing the small bottle in his hand.

The queen's expression remained skeptical. "I see," she said slowly, her tone implying that she didn't quite believe Lykon's story.

Lykon bowed low, his smile never faltering. "I'll take my leave now, Your Majesty. I'll let you and the shaman attend to the preparations for the full moon celebration." With that, he turned and walked out of the room, leaving the queen and the shaman to exchange uneasy glances.

LYON TOWN, FRANCE

"Freya, come on, open up," her friend said softly, trying to coax her out of her emotional shell.

"She's gone now, Freya. Your mother has left," her friend said gently, trying to offer comfort.

"I'm not in the mood to talk to anyone," Freya said slowly, her voice laced with sadness.

Her friend coaxed her gently. "Come on, Freya, open up. Let's discuss this."

Freya hesitated for a moment before slowly opening the door. Her friend slipped inside and sat on the edge of the bed.

"Freya, I know your mother has hurt you deeply, but don't you think you should give her a chance to explain herself before you leave France?" her friend asked gently.

Freya's anger flared up. "Why would you say that? You know nothing about my relationship with my mother."

Her friend's expression turned somber. "I may not know the details, but I do know what it's like to feel unloved and uncared for. I've never had a father or a mother to turn to. If I were in your shoes, even with all the hatred and pain, I would have still cherished the love and care of a mother."

Freya felt a pang of emotion, but her resolve remained firm. "I don't want to go back to her. I just want to leave this country."

Her friend placed a gentle hand on Freya's arm. "I understand, but at least give your mother a chance to apologize and make amends. A mother's blessing is still the most precious thing you can have. And think about it, Freya – she came here to apologize, which means she still loves you."

Freya's friend gave her a warm smile. "Take some time to think about it, and then we can decide on a date to visit your mother together."

Freya's expression softened, and she felt a glimmer of gratitude towards her friend. "Thank you so much, my friend. I really appreciate your concern and advice."

TWO WEEKS LATER:

"Freya, hurry up! We're going to be late!" her friend shouted from the sitting room.

"I'm coming!" Freya replied, emerging from her room a moment later. She was dressed in a simple yet elegant outfit consisting of a pair of jeans and a plain white T-shirt.

Her friend's eyes scanned her appearance, a warm smile spreading across her face. "You look lovely, Freya.But what took you so long?"

Freya shrugged. "I was just preparing myself for the journey ahead."

Her friend raised an eyebrow. "The journey ahead? You mean visiting your mom? Why do you sound so serious? And why am I more excited than you are?" Freya teased, a hint of amusement dancing in her eyes.

Her friend chuckled, grabbing Freya's arm and pulling her along. "Never mind, let's just go! We don't want to be late."

After several hours of catching buses, Freya and her friend finally arrived at Freya's childhood home. As they stepped out of the car, Freya's friend knocked on the door while Freya lingered behind, trying to calm her racing nerves.

"Don't worry, I'm here with you," her friend said, offering a reassuring smile as she grasped Freya's hands.

Freya managed a faint smile. "Thanks."

The door swung open, and Freya's mother stood before them, a look of surprise and delight on her face.

"Oh my God, my dear girls!" she exclaimed, beaming with joy.

As Freya stepped inside, she felt a wave of nostalgia wash over her. She had missed her old home and, in that moment, wished she could turn back the clock.

Her gaze wandered around the familiar space, taking in the unchanged decor. Her mother approached her, holding out her hands.

"How are you, dear?" she asked, inspecting Freya with a critical eye.

Freya's response was curt. "I'm fine."

Her mother's face fell, and she sighed, turning to Freya's friend. "Thank you so much for bringing her to see me. I really appreciate it."

Freya's friend nodded graciously. "It's okay, ma'am. Please, have a seat."

Freya's friend settled into the sofa, leaving Freya to wonder if her friend had always been a frequent visitor to her childhood home.

"Let me get you some juice," Freya's mother said, disappearing into the kitchen.

As soon as she was out of earshot, Freya's friend leaned in, her voice barely above a whisper. "Freya, come on, show her some love. This might be your last time visiting."

Freya's expression remained impassive, but a hint of emotion flickered in her eyes.

Freya's mother entered the room, a warm smile spreading across her face as she carried a tray with glasses of drinks. Her eyes sparkled with happiness at the sight of her daughter.

"Oh my god, thank you so much for coming to visit," she exclaimed, setting the tray down in front of them. "I was so bored sitting in this big house alone."

She gestured to the drinks. "Help yourselves, girls."

Freya's friend smiled. "No problem, ma'am. Thank you.

Freya's expression turned solemn as she delivered the news. "Well, Mother, I came to inform you that I'll be leaving France next week."

Her mother's face fell, a sad smile spreading across her lips. "It's okay, Freya. I understand. I don't deserve your love and forgiveness, but before you leave, I'd like to tell you a short story."

Freya's interest was piqued, and she set her glass down, her eyes locking onto her mother's. She leaned forward, her attention riveted on what her mother was about to reveal.

"Twenty years ago," Freya's mother began, "your father married a second wife. His first wife,was barren and couldn't give him a child. The whole kingdom was overjoyed when the second wife became pregnant... but soon, everything turned into a disaster."

After giving birth to her daughter, it was discovered that the second wife was a vampire. A family who knew of her giving birth came to the kingdom and demanded the child. She refused to give them the child, and a fierce battle ensued between her, her husband's family, and her own family. In the end, she lost her life, but not before handing over the child to the first wife, who agreed to take care of her.

The husband, upon seeing this, became enraged and wanted to kill the child. But the first wife ran off with the child and ended up at a kind old woman's house. The old woman protected them until they were able to travel out of the kingdom and relocate to a new place.

Freya's eyes widened in shock as she listened to the story. "Why are you telling me this story, Mother?" she asked, her voice laced with concern.

Freya's mother took a deep breath before answering. "Because, Freya, the daughter in the story is you. And I am the first wife."

Freya's world spun around her as she struggled to process the revelation. "What...what do you mean?" she stuttered.

Her mother's eyes filled with tears. "I'm so sorry, Freya. I'm sorry for keeping the truth from you. The last time i came to visit, you told me about your nightmares. I knew it was time for you to know the truth."

Freya's voice trembled with fear. "What truth? What do you mean I'm not human?"

Her mother's face contorted in anguish. "Yes, Freya. You're not human. Your mother was killed twenty years ago, and I'm just a caretaker. Your father wanted to kill you twenty years ago when he discovered you had special powers."

Freya's eyes welled up with tears as she gazed at her mother, her mind reeling with the shocking revelation.

Freya's eyes widened in shock. "So, you're not my mother?" she asked, her voice trembling.

Her mother's face contorted in anguish. "I'm so sorry, Freya. I made a great mistake. I should have loved you instead of pushing you away. When you left the house, I had time to reflect on my actions, and I realized that none of what happened to you or to me was your fault."

Tears streamed down her mother's face as she sobbed quietly. "I'm sorry. Please find it in your heart to forgive me."

Freya's friend couldn't hold back her tears, and she cried along with Freya's mother. Freya stood up, struggling to process the news that she wasn't human.

"Where will I go? How will I find my true self?" she asked, feeling lost.

Her mother wiped away her tears. "Okay, let's start with finding your father. Where is he?" Freya asked.

Her mother's expression turned somber. "I haven't heard from your father since I left the kingdom."

Freya's determination kicked in. "Well, how do you think I can find him?"

Her mother's eyes filled with tears again. "That's the question I couldn't answer. But please, find it in your heart to forgive me."

Freya's mother stood up and walked towards her. "I'm sorry," she said, holding out her hand.

Freya broke down in tears and hugged her mother tightly. "For so many years, I've wished for the love of a mother. I'm so happy to see that you finally love me."

Her mother smiled, tears streaming down her face. "Thank you for forgiving me, my daughter."

Freya smiled back, feeling a sense of peace wash over her. "Can I call you Mother?" she asked.

Her mother's face lit up with joy. "Yes, you can, my daughter."

Freya's friend joined in the hug, tears of joy streaming down her face. "I'm so happy to be part of this family reunion."

Freya's mother smiled, hugging them both tightly. "Girls, have a seat, and let's talk more."

Freya's mother smiled warmly. "Freya, I'm so happy you're determined to find your true self. While I may not have all the answers, I know someone who can help you discover who you truly are."

Freya's face lit up with excitement. "Who is she?" she asked eagerly.

Her mother's eyes sparkled. "The old woman who took us in all those years ago. She's the one who can help you uncover your secrets."

Freya's brow furrowed with concern. "Do you think she'll still be alive?"

Her mother chuckled softly. "Of course, she will. She's a remarkable woman."

Freya's face lit up with determination. "Okay, then I'd love to meet her and find out the truth about myself."

Her mother's expression turned serious. "Just know that I'm with you throughout this journey of self-discovery, my love."

For the first time in her life, Freya felt truly happy and free. She hugged her mother tightly, embracing their newfound bond.

THE MYSTERIOUS COVEN

The witch lady cackled with glee, her evil grin spreading across her face. "Ah, just my favorite," she said, her eyes glinting with malice.

One of her companions leaned in, eager for details. "Which city is it this time around?"

The witch lady's grin grew wider. "New Moon City," she replied, her voice dripping with malevolence.

As soon as she spoke the words, a mysterious hand appeared, only to vanish into thin air, leaving the four of them to discuss their plan of attack.

The witch lady's eyes seemed to gleam with excitement as she spoke. "I spied on them a few days ago, and they all seemed happy, oblivious to the destruction that is about to befall them."

One of her companions frowned, looking concerned. "But I thought we only attack when the alpha is not around or has been sent on a mission."

The witch lady's grin faltered for a moment, before she replied, "This time, we're going to make an exception."

The young woman stood her ground, despite the witch's intimidating presence. "I know I don't have much power like you do," she said, her voice steady. "I'm just an ordinary werewolf trying to protect my life."

The witch's laughter echoed through the air, her eyes glinting with malice. "Really? You're just an innocent little werewolf? You've killed hundreds, and yet you're still going to kill more. How quaint."

The witch's mocking tone was like a slap in the face, and the young woman's anger flared. "Stop it!" she shouted, her voice echoing through the air.

"Enough!" the leader slammed his fist on the table, his voice commanding attention. "As you can see, New Moon City is our target, and we will attack, no matter what."

The leader's gaze swept across the room, his eyes lingering on each member of the group. "Safira, I want you to sneak into the city tonight and gather intelligence for us."

Safira's eyes widened in surprise. "Why me?" she asked, her voice laced with a hint of protest.

The young witch smirked, her eyes glinting with amusement. "I would have loved to follow you," she said, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "But, as you can see, I wasn't listed for today's mission." With a flick of her wrist, she turned to leave. "See you."

MOON CITY PACK

As Kane continued his journey, he felt like the answers to his questions were slipping further away. Seeking refuge, he stumbled upon a village and decided to stop by, hoping to find some answers.

As he entered the village, he was surprised to find no guards at the gate. Instead, he was greeted by a village full of people laughing and smiling at each other. For a moment, Kane wondered if they were oblivious to the tragic killings that had been plaguing other villages.

Then, it dawned on him that the celebration of the full moon was just around the corner. The villagers' joy was infectious, and Kane found himself relaxing in their presence.

As he rode his horse, Passerby stopped to gaze at him, and the aura of power surrounding him made it clear that he was no ordinary human. The villagers bowed before him, and some trembled at his presence.

Kane, however, seemed unfazed by the commotion. He continued to stroll through the village, taking in the sights and sounds. Suddenly, a young girl stopped beside his horse.

"Hey!" she called out, and Kane looked down to behold a pretty young girl with a wide smile on her face. He dismounted his horse and approached her.

"Oh, my princess, what are you doing all alone on the road?" he asked, chuckling.

The girl pointed to a nearby house. "That's my house, but I'm too tired to walk." She gave Kane a cute smile, and he couldn't resist.

"Do you want me to carry you on my horse?" he asked, and the girl nodded enthusiastically.

As they rode towards her house, Kane asked, "What's your name?"

"My name is Annabella," she replied, showing off her gap-toothed smile.

Kane's heart melted at her charm. "Annabella, what a lovely name for a lovely girl like you."

As they approached her house, a young woman rushed out, looking worried. "Annabella, where have you been? We've been searching all over for you."

Annabella pointed to Kane. "I was with my friend."

Kane smiled, amused by her childish innocence. The woman invited him in, and Kane was struck by their hospitality and open-mindedness.

As he entered their home, Kane felt a sense of belonging that he hadn't experienced in a long time.

Before King Kane could fathom what was going on, he found himself seated with the Alpha of Moon City Kingdom. The young Alpha was charming, much like King Kane himself.

"I'm so pleased to have you here, Alpha," King Kofotam said, offering a handshake.

The Alpha of Moon City smiled warmly and accepted the handshake. "The pleasure is mine, King Kofatom.

King Kane gaze fell upon a little girl, who was smiling widely at him. "I must say, your little daughter is quite charming," he said

The Alpha chuckled. "Thank you. She can be a handful at times."

The little girl's face scrunched up, and she began to cry. "Little one, don't worry, Daddy is just joking," the Alpha said, comforting his daughter. The little girl ran off without waving goodbye.

The Alpha turned to King Kane. "I hope everything is fine."

King Kane's expression turned serious. "Everything is not fine. Haven't you heard about the killings that have been happening in other kingdoms?"

The Alpha's expression darkened. "Yes, I have. I'm scared that one day our kingdom might be next."

King Kane leaned in. "What have you done about it?"

The Alpha's eyes locked onto King Kane's. "As we speak, over two hundred pack hunters are training every day. We've also performed several rituals to prevent the attack of the killers. I'm just praying that our kingdom survives the killing, because I've heard that many kingdoms have been left in desolation after the killers attacked."

King Kane's expression was grim. "I've seen it myself. I left my kingdom to find answers, and when I arrived at Fang Kingdom, I discovered that they had been attacked by the killers. Their kingdom is in ruins, and their Alpha was killed in battle."

The Alpha of Moon City's eyes widened in shock. "That's terrible!"

King Kane's voice was heavy with concern. "What can we do to stop these killers?"

The Alpha of Moon City stood up. "Let's discuss this further, but first, let's get you settled in. We'll prepare a room for you."

King Kane smiled, feeling a sense of relief wash over him. "Thank you, Alpha. For the first time in a long time I feel at home

As they strolled to the prepared room, the Alpha of Moon City turned to King Kane with a concerned expression. "Have you heard from your family back home?" he asked.

King Kane's face fell, and he let out a sad sigh. "I haven't heard from them, but I hope they're fine."

The Alpha placed a reassuring hand on King Kane's shoulder. "All will be fine. By the time you find answers to your mission, you'll be free and happy to return home."

King Kane nodded, feeling a sense of gratitude towards the Alpha. "Thank you, Alpha. Your kindness means a lot to me. I've traveled far from my kingdom, and it's been a while since I've felt at home."

The Alpha smiled warmly. "You're welcome, King Kane..You're safe here, and we'll do everything in our power to help you find the answers you're seeking."

It was past midnight, and the villagers were asleep,the kingdom was eerily silent. King Kane, however, was restless and couldn't sleep. He stood by the window, gazing at the moon, silently wishing for his family's safety.

Just as he was about to close the window, a mysterious shadow flitted by. The King wondered what the shadow was and what it was looking for at that ungodly hour. His curiosity piqued, he decided to investigate.

Quietly, he closed the window and made his way to the door. He opened it slowly, but there was no one in sight. He looked left and right, but the darkness yielded nothing. Just as he was about to retreat, a cold breeze caressed the back of his neck. He spun around, and that's when he saw her - the mask killer.

Her face was hidden behind a mask, and her long hair cascaded down her back like a waterfall of night. The King could sense her femininity, but her presence was menacing.

"Are you the killer?" the King demanded, trying to keep his voice steady. "What are you doing in this village?"

The mask killer remained silent, her gaze fixed on the King. Before he could react, she hurled a silver knife at him. It pierced his hand, and the King let out a loud scream.

As he tried to transform into his wolf form, he realized it was impossible with the silver knife lodged in his hand. With a surge of adrenaline, he pulled out the knife and threw it to the ground.

The mask killer's eyes gleamed with malevolence as she began to close in on the King. Her laughter was like a cold breeze on a winter's night.

Just as she was about to strike, her gaze fell upon the ring on the King's hand. Her expression changed, and she seemed taken aback.

"Where did you get that ring from?" she demanded, her voice laced with a mixture of curiosity and fear. "Who gave it to you?"

The King was perplexed, staring at the ordinary-looking ring on his finger. The mask killer raised her knife, ready to strike, but the King raised his hand, and a blinding light emanated from the ring.

The mask killer stumbled back, momentarily blinded. The King seized the opportunity to grab her mask, but she was too quick. She escaped, leaving behind a torn piece of fabric.

The King lay on the ground, reeling from the traumatic experience. Just as he was catching his breath, he heard someone screaming his name from afar.

With his last ounce of strength, he managed to ask his wolf, Josh, "Are you fine?"

He heard his weak voice in his head, "I am fine."

A broad smile spread across his face, and with a sense of relief, he released himself into unconsciousness.