Chapter 5 HER FAULT

--- "Lysander!" Astra called, her voice breaking the stillness of the twilight as she sprinted toward the figure in the clearing. Her feet barely touched the ground, her heart thundering in her chest with a rush of emotions she didn't fully understand. Why was she running? Why was she smiling like a child seeing the sun after a storm? She hadn't seen him in years. Not since that night-too long ago-when everything changed. He had shifted back into his human form by the time she reached him.

The moment her eyes met his, her legs moved faster, and without a second thought, she threw herself into his arms. Her arms wrapped around him tightly, her smile radiant with the joy of reunion. "I'm so glad to see you again. I really missed-" Her words stumbled and vanished, caught in her throat, as Lysander pushed her away with a firm, cold hand. Astra stumbled slightly, blinking in confusion and hurt. His expression was unreadable, a mask carved from ice. "Follow me," he said gruffly, his voice void of warmth. He didn't wait for a reply. He turned sharply and started walking away. Astra's heart sank. She stood frozen for a moment until a hand gently steadied her. "Are you okay?" The girl asked softly, her eyes filled with concern. Astra forced a nod, brushing her emotions aside as she followed Lysander's retreating figure. "Who is he?" The girl whispered beside her. Astra didn't look at her. "Someone I know... A friend," she answered, though the word felt foreign on her tongue now. The girl let out a small sigh. "He's really handsome," she admitted with a blush, her eyes lingering on Lysander's back. Astra finally glanced up. Lysander's form had changed in the years apart. He looked stronger-more muscular-and taller, with broad shoulders that carried the weight of authority. His hair was a little longer, his stride more commanding. But there was something else... a distance in him, like a wall she hadn't seen before. Astra allowed herself a small, bittersweet smile. "He used to be different," she murmured. The girl glanced at her, puzzled, but Astra didn't elaborate. "What's your name?" Astra asked instead, needing something to focus on. "I'm Indigo," she replied brightly, skipping slightly to keep pace. They walked for several minutes in silence. The forest gave way to stone-paved roads, lined with glowing lanterns. Slowly, the trees thinned, and a hidden city bloomed before them-quiet and lovely under the starlight. Vines adorned the walls of homes, and flowers in every shade of moonlit color spilled from hanging pots and window boxes. Most windows were dark; the city slept in peace, unaware of the storm stirring in Astra's heart. Soon, they arrived at a grand house-almost a mansion-with arching windows and tall columns. Guards stood at the entrance, and the moment they saw Lysander, they snapped to attention and bowed. "We are sorry we didn't accompany you outside, Alpha," one said respectfully. Astra's eyes widened. Alpha? Her gaze darted to Lysander. Did she just hear that right? Her breath caught. The title echoed in her mind, mingling with memories of the boy she once knew-wild, loyal, and full of fire. Lysander didn't acknowledge her reaction. "It's fine. Give them a room," he instructed, his tone clipped and impersonal. Then without another word, he turned and walked inside. "Lysander!" Astra called after him, desperation slipping through her voice. But he didn't turn. Didn't even pause. The door shut behind him with a firm thud that echoed in her chest. She stood there a moment, stunned, then followed the guards silently as they led her and Indigo into a spacious guest room. "You'll remain here until the Alpha decides what's next," one of the guards said. Then they left without waiting for a reply. Indigo twirled in place, her eyes wide. "This is beautiful! I love it. Your friend is really nice to give us a place like this." Astra's lips curled into a faint, sad smile. She sat on the edge of the large bed, her eyes staring at the closed door. "I'm not sure," she said quietly. "The way he looked at me... it wasn't nice at all." Indigo paused, sensing the shift in mood. She climbed onto the bed and curled up under the blankets. Within minutes, her breathing evened out into sleep. But Astra couldn't sleep. She lay awake in the soft, unfamiliar room, her eyes tracing the moonlit patterns on the ceiling. Her mind wouldn't rest. The past few days had been a blur-danger, travel, exhaustion. And now this. Lysander had change from the weak omega she once know, they even called him Alpha. She turned on her side, staring at the doorway as if willing it to open. She wanted answers. Needed them. But more than anything, she wanted to understand what had happened to him-and if there was anything left of the boy she used to know. A soft breeze drifted through the window, carrying with it the scent of night flowers and the haunting silence of unspoken words. - THE NEXT DAY "Please don't hurt her," Magnus's voice came again, low but desperate, echoing faintly his mind. Lysander stepped out of the bathroom, steam rolling behind him, his blue eyes glinting with an unreadable coldness. He dragged a towel through his wet hair, his jaw clenched tight. "You're starting to annoy me, Magnus," he said, his tone devoid of mercy. "And no matter what you say, it won't change anything. She's the one who destroyed my life, and I won't rest until I return the favor." He tossed the towel aside and began buttoning his dark shirt with deliberate calmness, as if each motion helped suppress the storm inside him. "She's your mate, Lysander. Think about that. You were born for each other-fated. Isn't that supposed to mean something?" Magnus asked in his mind. "There's nothing to think about," Lysander snapped, turning toward him with eyes like ice. "Her father killed my family. She's going to suffer for that. Since her father's already dead, she'll carry the burden for him." "But what if he was innocent?" Magnus tried again, voice rising with urgency. "What if it's all a misunderstanding? Have you ever considered that? I've seen the way she looks at you, Lysander. I think she genuinely cares." Lysander's eyes flickered, but it was gone before it could settle. "You won't change my mind." he muttered. There was a pause, a thick silence between them that neither dared break further. Then a voice broke through the stillness. "You look troubled." Lysander didn't even turn. He didn't need to. That voice was etched into his memory like a lullaby turned bitter. "What are you doing here this early, Aunt Remi?" he asked, sighing as he adjusted the cuff of his sleeve. "Can't I visit my favorite nephew?" she said, her tone light, playful even. She stepped into view, elegant as always, her auburn hair swept back in a neat chignon, her tailored coat hugging her slim frame. She walked over and began fussing with the collar of his shirt. "I'm fine. Don't worry about me," he muttered. But Remi didn't stop. She looked up into his face, her own gaze soft and probing. "You still don't trust me, do you?" Lysander hesitated. "I'm your father's younger sister. I promise to raise you after they were gone, didn't I?" she continued, voice dropping with emotion. "I would never harm you. And yet you always seem to keep me at arm's length. It hurts, Lys." "I trust you," he said, though the words felt strained. "I know you're my family. So stop judging me." She took a step back, her eyes studying him in silence for a long moment. Then, unexpectedly, she smiled. "I heard you had some guests last night," she said casually, shifting the conversation. "They're no one important," Lysander replied, brushing past her. "Just a few rogues." "Oh," she said, a note of interest in her voice. "Should I make your favorite breakfast for you? I still remember-sunny side eggs, burnt toast, and black coffee, right?" "The maid can do it," he said, walking toward the door. "I made a promise to your mother that I'd take care of you," she said softly, her voice following him like a ghost. "But you make it so hard sometimes." He paused at the door. "You can make it," he said over his shoulder, his voice quiet but firm. Then he left the room without another word. Remi stood alone, watching the closed door with a wistful expression. Slowly, she smiled-bright and warm, though her eyes remained distant, as if seeing someone who wasn't there. --- Downstairs, Lysander made his way through the grand hall of the estate. The sunlight poured through the tall windows, illuminating the carved columns and portraits that lined the corridor. His boots echoed against the marble floor with each step. He passed by the room where she was held. The scent of her still lingered-soft, delicate, maddening. He paused for just a second, a flicker of doubt crossing his mind. "Don't be weak," he whispered to himself, jaw tightening. "She is not innocent. Her blood is the same as his." Yet, the image of her eyes-looking at his, pleading-flashed unbidden in his mind. His hands clenched at his sides. He hated how they affected him. How she affected him. --- The loud, persistent banging at the door jolted Astra from her sleep. Her eyes fluttered open, squinting against the morning light that trickled in through the ornate window. She sat up slowly, rubbing her eyes as the last traces of sleep clung to her. Beside her, Indigo stirred and let out a soft groan, stretching her arms lazily. Another knock-louder this time-rattled the door again. "I'll get it," Indigo murmured, swinging her legs off the bed. She padded barefoot across the marble floor and opened the heavy door with a creak. An elderly woman stood outside, arms folded, her expression carved from stone. "Didn't you hear me knocking?" she snapped, her gray eyes sharp and disapproving. "Sorry," Indigo said with a polite smile, but the woman only scoffed and stepped aside. "You both-follow me. Now." Indigo shot a questioning look back at Astra, who shrugged and slipped out of bed. They both followed the woman through a long, grand hallway. The palace was magnificent-high vaulted ceilings, walls carved with ancient markings, and gold chandeliers glittering with early morning light. The floors gleamed as if freshly polished, and soft music played somewhere in the distance. As they walked, Astra slowed to admire a mural depicting wolves and warriors locked in battle. Despite her confusion, a spark of admiration flickered in her eyes. She had grown up in royal halls, but this place held a deeper, older magic. They reached a room with tall double doors. The woman opened them with ease and motioned them inside. "Get dressed," she said, pointing at two mannequins adorned in modest uniforms-simple gray dresses with aprons. "Meet me outside in five minutes." Before Astra could ask anything, the woman turned and walked away, leaving the door open behind her. Astra frowned and crossed her arms. "What is going on?" "I'm not sure," Indigo said as she moved toward the dresses. "But I don't like the sound of it." The two girls reluctantly dressed. The fabric was rougher than what Astra was used to, and the color dull against their complexions. When they stepped outside, a courtyard full of similarly dressed girls came into view. Most were already sweeping, scrubbing, or tending to the plants. The clatter of brooms and chatter filled the air. "I think... we're maids," Indigo whispered, her voice filled with disbelief. Before Astra could respond, a broom was thrust into her hands. "Make sure this place is clean," the stern woman ordered. Astra blinked in confusion, then let out a disbelieving laugh. "There must be some mistake. I'm the Alpha Princess. I've never even held a broom before." Vs He said. The woman's lips curled into a sneer. "Here, you are nothing. Get to work quickly, or you won't eat." She said. Astra's mouth fell open. "Who gave you the right to treat me like this? Do you even know who I am? I-" "It was the Alpha's orders," the woman interrupted coldly. "He said you're not just a maid. You're his slave." The word landed like a slap. Astra froze, stunned. "He... what?" Indigo looked just as shocked, eyes wide. "That can't be right." "He's made a mistake," Astra said through clenched teeth. "I'll speak to him myself." Without another word, she stormed off toward the palace entrance. Indigo hesitated only a second before running after her. They moved quickly through the stone corridors until Astra's sharp eyes spotted him-Lysander, walking through the hallway with two guards at his sides. His long coat trailed behind him like a shadow. "Lysander!" she called, her voice desperate. She started toward him, only for a hand to grab her hair and yank her backward. Before she could react, a sharp slap landed across her cheek, snapping her head to the side. "Your Highness!" Indigo cried, racing forward. Astra turned in stunned silence, eyes burning, her hand pressed to her stinging cheek. A girl stood before her, dressed in fine silks, her expression smug. Behind her were several maids who looked both nervous and eager to please. "What do you think you're doing?" Astra demanded, her voice shaking with fury. "You don't raise your voice here, and who are you to call the Alpha by his name," the girl said coldly. Indigo stepped between them, glaring at the stranger. "How dare you hit Her Highness?"She demanded angrily. Gasps echoed through the courtyard. "Watch your tongue," the older woman barked, stepping forward. "This is Mistress Gwen, the Alpha's betrothed. You will show her respect." She added. "Betrothed?" Astra's voice cracked. "That's impossible." Mistress Gwen tilted her head with mock sweetness. "I'll pardon your ignorance. You're new, after all." She said. She pushed past them without another glance, her maids following like shadows. Astra's fists clenched at her sides as she watched her walk away, her pride shattered and her heart burning. "Now return to your duties," the elder woman snapped. "You want to eat, don't you?" Astra didn't respond. Her shoulders slumped slightly as she took the broom. Indigo stood beside her, silent for a moment. "I'll sweep it all," Indigo said gently. "You don't have to-" "No," Astra said, forcing a small smile as she bent down. "Let's sweep it together." And so they did-two girls in gray uniforms, sweeping the dust of humiliation under the golden sun. --- SILVER MOON PACK - THE PALACE The tension in the chamber was suffocating. Kieran paced restlessly, his boots thudding against the polished stone floor with every step. The fire crackled weakly in the hearth, casting long shadows across the cold, royal blue walls. He ran a hand through his tousled hair, jaw clenched, nerves fraying by the second. Then the heavy doors opened, and two guards stepped in, lowering their heads in a bow. "Well?" he asked, eyes sharp and voice desperate. "Did you find her? Was she killed?" One of the guards looked up hesitantly. "Your Highness, we searched all through the outer borders... but we couldn't find her. She escaped into the woods." Kieran's eyes narrowed. "So she's alive?" The other guard stepped forward quickly. "We believe she may not survive long. The forest beyond the pack's borders is overrun with rogues. No one makes it through there. She's as good as dead." Kieran turned away, walking to the tall window overlooking the moonlit palace gardens. His expression shifted from frustration to sinister calculation. "Then we'll make it official." He turned back around, lips curling into a cold smirk. "Let's tell the pack she's dead." One of the guards looked unsure. "But Your Highness... what if she's not? What if she returns?" "Then we make them believe," Kieran snapped, stepping closer. "Get me a body. One of the omegas-young, similar build. We'll burn the body just enough for it to be unrecognizable." The guard bowed. "As you command, my prince." "Don't keep me waiting," Kieran said, his voice low and dangerous. The guard turned and left swiftly, leaving the chamber heavy with tension. Before Kieran could sit, another guard stepped into the room, eyes wide with urgency. "Your Highness, your father-the Beta-is here." The announcement barely landed before the doors slammed open and an older man stormed in. Beta Regulus, towering and broad-shouldered, radiated rage. Without hesitation, he landed a powerful punch squarely to Kieran's face. Kieran staggered backward, hitting the floor with a grunt, blood trailing from his split lip. "You arrogant fool!" the Beta shouted, his voice booming through the chamber. "Do you know what you've done? You killed the Alpha princess-do you understand that you were only on that throne because of her?" Kieran wiped the blood from his lip and sat up slowly, wincing. "She was getting too clever. She knew things. She wanted to divorce me. If I didn't act, she'd ruin everything we've worked for." Beta Regulus loomed over him, fists clenched. "And your answer was murder? You think the pack will let this go? She was beloved. Her death will stir rebellion, and you-you-are not even born an Alpha. You rule through borrowed power!" Kieran stood, his face hardening despite the pain. "I know that. That's why I've planned this out. I'm going to stage her death as a suicide. I'll plant letters-confessions-exposing her as a traitor to the pack, twisted by secrets and shame. The people won't question her death... they'll mourn her and blame her. They'll pity me." Regulus stared at him, breathing heavily. "You're gambling with everything. You better pray this works, Kieran. If it doesn't, I will strip you of your title and give it to your brother without a second thought." Kieran's jaw twitched. "Understood." Regulus turned away, storming toward the door. Just before he crossed the threshold, he stopped and threw a final warning over his shoulder. "And next time, tell me before you make a decision this big. You may wear the crown, but you're still my son. Don't forget who made you." "I won't," Kieran said softly, watching his father leave. The door slammed shut, and silence fell over the room again. He walked to a nearby mirror, staring at the blood on his lip. Slowly, he touched the swollen flesh, his reflection smirking bitterly back at him. "You always said I wasn't born to lead," he whispered to the mirror. "But you'll see, Father. I'll make them all believe I belong here." Outside the chamber, thunder rumbled in the distance. And Kieran was ready to rule through all of it. ---- Astra and Indigo moved quietly among the line of maids, each balancing trays of delicate food as they were led down the hallway. The smell of roasted meat and sweet herbs filled the air, but neither girl noticed-both too caught up in the heavy silence of the palace. As they neared a large door, it swung open abruptly. Indigo gasped, stumbling backward, her tray tilting. She nearly fell, but a hand caught the back of her dress, pulling her upright. She looked up, eyes wide. A tall, handsome man stood before her-dark-haired and sharp-featured. He gave Indigo a brief, unreadable glance before his eyes landed on Astra. His stare was cold. Then, without a word, he walked past them. "Bow your head next time," one of the maids whispered. "That's Prince Zane-the Alpha's younger brother." They entered the grand dining hall moments later. Lysander sat at the head of the table, surrounded by ministers and nobles. His attention was focused on the discussion, his expression unreadable. Beside him sat Mistress Gwen, smiling sweetly, her fingers laced with his. She leaned into him, whispering something in his ear. Astra froze as she laid down the tray, her eyes locked on them. Lysander didn't even look at her-not a glance, not a flicker of recognition. He didn't pull away from Gwen. He didn't care. Pain surged in Astra's chest. She turned quickly and left the hall, her steps growing faster until she was running. Outside, she collapsed near the garden wall, breathing heavily. Her vision blurred as tears fell silently. He didn't need her anymore. He had let her go-without a word, without a second thought. She pressed a hand to her chest, her voice a whisper. "I was nothing to him...and it was her fault"