"Run!"
"Run!"
The anguished cries of the villagers echoed through the air, piercing my ears.
Confusion swirled within me as I tried to comprehend the chaos unfolding before my eyes. What was happening? I wondered, my mind struggling to make sense of the situation.
Driven by a mix of fear and curiosity, I ventured outside our humble home, only to be greeted by a deafening gunshot that reverberated through the air. Instinctively, I turned my gaze toward the source of the sound.
The sight that met my eyes was overwhelming. Pools of crimson blood stained the ground, transforming the once peaceful surroundings into a horrifying scene of violence. Panic consumed the villagers as they frantically fled, their desperate cries permeating the air. Adults clasped their children tightly, tears already streaming down their faces. The world seemed to unravel before me.
Amidst the mayhem, my father rushed towards me, scooping me up into his arms, while my mother clutched my elder brother close. The fear in his voice was palpable as he shouted, "We need to run!" But my innocent five-year-old mind couldn't comprehend why we had to flee. I voiced my confusion, but no answer reached my ears amid the chaos.
As we joined the panicked villagers in their desperate flight, the deafening crack of gunshots shattered the air once more. Two lives abruptly extinguished, their bodies crumpling to the ground, disrupting the balance of our fragile existence.
Blood seeped from their lifeless forms, and my mind struggled to process the enormity of the horror before me. My brother and I locked eyes, both of us overcome with sorrow. Tears streamed down my face, blurring my vision as I grappled with the reality of the loss that unfolded before me.
"No, no, no, this can't be happening!" I cried out, my voice barely audible above the tumultuous surroundings.
In a daze, I caught sight of a figure amidst the chaos and desperation. Something within me propelled me towards him. Though his features remained indiscernible, I could sense his towering presence. With trembling hands, I reached out and grasped his palm, pleading for salvation.
"Please, help me save them," I sobbed, clutching his hand with all the desperation a young child could muster.
A faint smirk played upon his lips as he softly uttered, "They are already gone."
The weight of his words crushed me, a heavy realization settling upon my young shoulders. But before I could fully process this devastating truth, another gunshot pierced the air. Panic surged within me, for I believed it was my turn to meet the same fate. If I was to die, I wished for a moment to say my final prayers, to seek justice for my parents' murderers. Why now? Why in this cruel twist of fate? At least in death, I might be reunited with my parents, but what about my brother? What would become of him?
Tears streamed down my face, mingling with the anguish that consumed me. The sound of the bullet tearing through flesh reached my ears, but it wasn't my body that it found. Miraculously, I remained alive. Blinking through tear-stained eyes, I strained to see who had shielded me from the brink of death.
There, lying on the ground, was the figure I had reached out to, the one who had stood between me and the bullet. I wiped away my tears, hoping to gain a clearer view of this savior.
"Brother?" I murmured, my voice filled with a mix of disbelief and hope.
"Help him please"I cried.
"If I do will you do anything ?"
"Anything just save my brother "I pleaded
A smile appeared on the stranger face before he spoke"Sleep" and I succumbed to the darkness that enveloped me, pulling me into an abyss of uncertainty.
As my consciousness wavered between the realms of light and darkness, fleeting fragments of memory danced before my mind's eye. The tragic events that had unfolded moments ago replayed in my thoughts, bringing forth a surge of grief and confusion. The figure who had sacrificed himself to protect me, could he truly be my brother?
Slowly, like a fragile bud emerging from the depths of despair, awareness returned to me. My eyelids fluttered open, revealing a world that felt both familiar and foreign. Blinking away the remnants of unconsciousness, I found myself lying in a small, dimly lit room.
The air was heavy with a mixture of mustiness and lingering fear. Wooden planks creaked beneath my weight as I rose unsteadily to my feet. My surroundings revealed a dilapidated shelter, its walls adorned with patches of peeling paint and memories of a forgotten time. A ray of sunlight pierced through a crack in the worn curtains, casting a faint glow upon the scene.
As I took hesitant steps forward, memories flooded back with increasing clarity. My family, the village, the harrowing tragedy that had ripped apart our lives... The pain of loss mingled with the fervent hope that my brother was still alive. It fueled my determination to uncover the truth, to understand what had happened and why.
"Stay put, you've just been injured. You need to heal properly, or else you won't be of any use to me," a familiar voice echoed through the room.
"Aunt?" I managed to utter, my voice laced with confusion and pain.
"Little Lit, you owe us a lot for saving that slow-witted brother of yours," my aunt sneered, her words dripping with disdain.
Days turned into a relentless routine of isolation and neglect. Confined to a small, dimly lit room, I was forbidden from seeing my brother. My aunt's cruelty knew no bounds. She provided me with meager rations of food, barely enough to sustain my weakened body. But despite the physical deprivation, it was the absence of my brother's presence that weighed heaviest on my heart.
Time passed, and the longing to reunite with my brother grew unbearable. Finally, as my body gradually healed, my brother managed to sneak into the room where I was confined. His face lit up with joy as he rushed to embrace me, unable to contain his emotions.
"I missed you so much. I had to sneak in just to see you," he cried, his tears mingling with mine as we held each other tightly.
However, our reunion was short-lived. My aunt's presence loomed, casting a shadow of cruelty over our moment of solace. She approached us, her voice filled with animosity.
"What are you doing here, Daniel?" she sneered, her eyes narrowing with displeasure.
"I... I am sorry," Daniel stuttered, his voice trembling with fear.
Without warning, my aunt's hand struck my brother's face with a resounding slap. The force of the blow sent him tumbling to the ground, his spirit crushed under the weight of her cruelty.
"You and your foolish brother can stay here together, but you will have to endure starvation," she declared with a smirk, relishing in her power to inflict suffering.
Silence hung heavy in the air as my brother and I exchanged glances, the unspoken understanding passing between us. We were alone, trapped in a web of cruelty and despair. But deep within our hearts, a flicker of defiance burned.
Solvandor's POV
"Solvandor, how long are you going to keep me waiting?" Alpha Xiever spoke impatiently.
"Alpha, what is it that you're waiting for?" I responded, maintaining my composure.
"It has been 20 years, and you still haven't taken your wolf form? What do you think people will say when they find out my son is without a wolf?!" Xiever shouted angrily before continuing his tirade.
"Why do I have such a useless son?"my father spoke with absolute resentment.
"At least you have a handsome and smart son. Shouldn't you be grateful for that?" I replied, trying to reason with him.
"I am soon retiring as Alpha, and an Alpha without a wolf is considered worthless. Can't you understand the gravity of this situation? Without a wolf, you won't ever find a mate, and without a mate, we won't have a Luna. And without a Luna, what kind of Alpha would you be? I have no choice but to pass on the inheritance to your brother," my father declared, his voice filled with disappointment.
"You must be joking, father. Why does it matter if I have no wolf? I could always marry someone else," I retorted, frustration creeping into my voice.
"I do not care. Even without a wolf, you are too proud and self-absorbed. How can you protect our pack without a wolf? Do you not realize the danger we face if other packs were to hear about this?" my father countered, his concern mixed with anger.
"Is it my fault?"
"It is because of me that this pack prospers. I invented technology and machines such as guns, things that humans created. That is what sets our pack apart from the rest," I explained, trying to make him understand.
"Humans have created those too. What if other packs start using those machines once they find out? We would be doomed," my father responded, his tone filled with worry.
"I told you before, father. I once saw my mate thirteen years ago. I believe I have a wolf," I revealed, hoping to change his perspective.
"That's impossible. The moon goddess didn't bless you with a wolf because you are considered useless," he spat, his words laced with disdain.
"I wish your younger brother was the firstborn or even better, that you were never born," he added, his cruel words piercing my heart.
I knew my father despised me because I had no wolf, but he had no right to say such hurtful things. How could a father be so cruel? I never imagined that even after being rejected by the world, my own father would reject me too. At least I still had my mother, right?
****
"Save them, please save them," the young girl held my hand, tears flowing from her eyes like a river.
"Why?" I asked, my curiosity piqued.
"They are my parents, please save them," she pleaded.
Oh, so she was the daughter of the parents I had just killed? Well, in a way, I did them a favor by freeing them from this cruel world.
"They are gone," I replied, my face remaining indifferent. I had witnessed many deaths, so this was nothing new to me. I often wondered why humans felt sadness when losing their loved ones. After all, it's not like I would care if my father were dead.
Suddenly, a bullet came rushing like a thunderbolt, aiming for the girl.
"MATE," I heard a voice within me speak, and before I could react, someone else was lying on the ground.
I was sure I had heard the word "mate," or maybe I was mistaken? But at the age of seven, no werewolf would have received their wolf yet. So, what was happening?
"Save him, please," the girl cried out once again.
What was her obsession with saving people? Was she some kind of heroine? I was starting to get irritated with the way she was tugging at my newly bought shirt.
I turned to face her and was taken aback. What was this unearthly beauty? Her teary blue eyes looked like rare gems. She was incredibly beautiful, and I couldn't tear my gaze away from her. Her silver hair resembled that of the moon goddess herself.
Had I ever seen anyone this beautiful before?
Lost in my admiration of her, she asked again, "Save him, please."
"What will you do if I do save him?" I inquired.
As a future alpha, it was not my style to do something without gaining anything in return. Everything I did had to be productive, following the rules of becoming an alpha.
"Anything, I would do anything," her voice echoed in my ears.
Hmmm, anything? I could sense her desperation, and how could I resist a damsel in distress?
"You owe me. I will come back for it in the future. Now, sleep, little one," I said to her, although I found it ironic calling her a child when I was just one myself.
I had many talents, and even without a wolf, I was amazing in many aspects. Many might question how an alpha without a wolf could be this proud, but according to rule 9 of becoming an alpha, one must never show their true feelings openly.
At the age of 18, my business flourished, and I became a young CEO in the human world. I became the best doctor one could ever know. With my looks to die for, who in their right senses wouldn't fantasize about me?
Even if it was for fame or because I would become the next alpha, ladies wanted me. But I didn't want any of them. Why would anyone like a wolfless alpha if not for ulterior motives?
The girl I saw thirteen years ago, I could never forget how she looked. Years may have passed, but my memories of her never faded. I wondered how she would look now. I was certain she would be a dazzling beauty.
"Oh, Moon goddess, if we are truly meant to be, let us meet again. At least you did not bless me with a wolf, so bless me with a woman," I silently pleaded to the moon goddess.
"Solvandor," my father's harsh voice interrupted my thoughts, bringing me back to the harsh reality of life.
"I will disown you if you do not have a wolf in the next two years," my father threatened.
"Oh, sweet Alpha, I disowned you as my father a long time ago. You never considered me your child, never regarded me as your son. So, do you think disowning me would make a difference?" Solvandor spoke defiantly.
"Solvandor!!!!!!!!!!!!" his father shouted, his anger resonating through a loud slap on my face. But I remained indifferent, unaffected by his actions.
Lit's P.O.V
Years had passed, and despite the changes in my life, my resentment remained unwavering. I gazed at my reflection in the mirror, the silver strands of my hair gleaming brightly, while my once vibrant blue eyes seemed devoid of their usual spark.
Another dreaded day awaited me at school, despite my feeble attempt to fit in by dyeing my hair black. The relentless bullying persisted, impervious to my efforts.
To repay my aunt and uncle for their role in saving my brother thirteen years ago, I worked three jobs. I never ceased my attempts to show gratitude for the life my brother had granted me. If it weren't for the murderers who had cruelly taken my parents away, I wouldn't be burdened with this existence.
"Let's go," my uncle's booming voice echoed from downstairs. I hastily pulled my hair into a bun and applied my daily makeup, not forgetting to darken my hair. Feelings of inadequacy engulfed me, as I faced the world, exposed and plagued by my insecurities.
Grabbing my school bag, I rushed downstairs. My brother greeted me with a warm smile, and I reciprocated, although my two bratty cousins hissed at me in disdain.
"Why did you take forever to get ready? You won't receive any lunch money today, Lit," my uncle sneered, his words cutting deep, as they always did.
As always, my brother handed me his lunch money. We arrived at school, and I made my way to the entrance, releasing a heavy sigh. Another dreadful day loomed ahead. I opened the door, and instantly, judgmental eyes locked onto mine.
"Lit, you're late again," scolded my teacher.
"But it's only 7:58 am, and school starts at 8:00 am," I pleaded, hoping to evade any further trouble.
"Stop arguing and go sit in the back of the class," she dismissed me.
Resigned, I took my place and found a clutter of junk on my desk. It was a familiar sight, one that I chose to ignore. "We move," I whispered to myself, a mantra to navigate through the torment.
Just as I was about to clear my desk, my teacher's voice interrupted me once again. "Stand at the back of the class."
Her change of mind came swiftly. I followed her command and stood at the back, feeling a mix of frustration and resignation.
"Sorry for being so late, Mrs. Grace," Edward spoke up.
A cacophony of excited squeals erupted from the girls in the classroom. Edward possessed a certain charm that immediately captured everyone's attention. His golden locks cascaded around his face, framing his mischievous emerald eyes.
"No worries. Where would you like to sit, Edward? The class is already filled up," Mrs. Grace asked, her voice tinged with amusement.
Edward surveyed the room before his gaze landed on me. "I will sit beside her," he declared, pointing directly at me.
"Lit?" Mrs. Grace called, seeking my confirmation.
However, fatigue had long overwhelmed me, and I had drifted off, oblivious to the commotion around me.
A soft smile graced Edward's lips as he observed me. "She's adorable when she's asleep," he thought, captivated by my peaceful slumber.
"LIT!" the teacher's voice boomed, jolting me awake.
"Yes, ma'am?" I responded groggily, attempting to regain my composure.
"Sleeping during punishment?" Mrs. Grace asked, her tone laced with disapproval.
"This nice boy wants to sit beside you. Take him to your seat," the teacher instructed, gesturing towards Edward.
With a bright smile and a wave of my hand, I greeted Edward. My attention then turned to the mess on my seat, and embarrassment flooded my cheeks. As I moved to clean it up, he picked up the junk from my seat and tossed it towards the responsible individuals, making a bold statement without uttering a single word.
I had always harbored a crush on him, but with my poor grades and the cloud of misfortune that surrounded me, how could anyone like me? His brown hair and gentle brown eyes were captivating.
As Edward settled into the seat beside me, a wave of undeniable attraction washed over me. His presence was captivating, drawing the attention of everyone in the classroom. The girls around us failed to conceal their envy and jealousy, their glares filled with resentment directed at us.
Fear gripped me as I anticipated an increase in the number of haters. Soon, girls swarmed around Edward like bees, and a realization struck me.
"I have an interview this morning, and I must not be late," I reminded myself.
"Excuse me, Mrs. Grace. I have been feeling quite unwell. May I seek permission to go home?" I asked, my voice filled with desperation.
"You can go wherever you want. That's none of my business," she hissed at me dismissively.
Swiftly, I dashed out, running faster than a lightning bolt. I needed to arrive early for my job interview. Finally, I reached the building where the interview was scheduled.
The sign read "Hanes Industries - Pharmaceutical Division."
I entered the building, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. Approaching the receptionist, I inquired, "Excuse me, I am here for an interview."
"I'm sorry, but the interview ended at 9 am," she replied with a sympathetic look on her face.
"Oh no! I can't believe it. This company pays three times more than all the jobs I do combined, and I missed this great opportunity. I even skipped school for it," I lamented to myself, tears threatening to fall.
"Will my life ever get any better?" I wondered aloud, the weight of disappointment heavy on my shoulders.
"Excuse me, ma'am. You look down," I heard an elderly man's voice speak.
"Yeah," I replied, though internally, I was screaming, wondering what this man wanted.
"I am a sage, and I have come to tell you, do not be sad for missing the train, so you won't miss the plane," he spoke in cryptic parables, but my exhausted mind couldn't comprehend their meaning.
Ignoring his words, I couldn't hold back any longer. I broke down, not caring where I was. I had heard that crying could be cathartic, so today, I would weep until my voice reached the heavens.
Amidst my tears, I heard a deep, rich voice that felt strangely familiar. "How much do you want?" it asked.
Was God speaking to me? I needed to respond.
As I raised my head to meet his gaze, I couldn't help but gasp. "Holy cow! He is incredibly handsome, even hot. At first glance, I knew he must be an angel sent to me," I thought, unable to tear my eyes away from his golden hair and beautiful emerald eyes.
As our gazes locked, time seemed to stand still. A rush of warmth spread through my body, contrasting with the chilling emptiness that had consumed me for so long.
His golden locks cascaded around his face like rays of sunlight, their brilliance capturing attention from every corner of the room. Each strand seemed to dance independently, carrying a hint of untamed mischief. The way his hair framed his features enhanced his already striking appearance, giving him an air of ethereal allure.
But it was his eyes that truly mesmerized me. Emerald orbs sparkled with a vibrancy that seemed to reflect an entire spectrum of emotions. They held a depth that hinted at hidden secrets and unspoken stories. As our eyes met, it felt as though time had paused, and the world had faded into the background, leaving only the intensity of our connection.
The combination of his golden hair and emerald eyes created a captivating contrast that was impossible to resist. It was as if he possessed a rare and otherworldly beauty that defied ordinary standards. In his presence, my surroundings seemed to pale in comparison, and all that mattered was the ethereal figure before me.
I found myself irresistibly drawn to him, not just by his physical appearance, but also by the aura of confidence and intrigue that surrounded him. As my heart fluttered in my chest, I couldn't help but feel a surge of hope. Perhaps, in his presence, the shadows that had plagued my existence could be momentarily cast aside. His mere presence offered a glimmer of light amidst the darkness, and I couldn't help but wonder if he held the key to unlocking a new chapter in my life.
But wait, I just met an angel. I needed to show some respect, Lit, and stop overthinking. But his lips...
"Lit!!!" I internally shouted at myself, trying to regain focus. This beauty was too much to handle, and I couldn't help but faint due to the shock of it all.
Angels were truly this beautiful? If only I had known earlier, I would have prayed to marry an angel.
***
Solvandor pov
I laughed sinisterly before speaking, "Alpha, you have done much worse than this. This means nothing."
My father seethed in rage before retorting, "I don't care how you do it, find a girl and claim her as your mate. Convince the people that you have a mate."
"And why should I bend to your every whim?" I replied defiantly.
"I would never let a useless son like you disgrace our name, understand?"
"I am off to work. I will only bring someone I truly love. I won't be like you, never ever," I said, fuming with anger, as he stormed out.
"I swear by the moon goddess, the first girl I see will be the one I choose, even if she's a madwoman. I won't care, because right now, all I want is to irritate my father," I declared determined to make my own choices.
Driving away from the mansion, heading towards my workplace, my eyes caught sight of a girl. She looked utterly hopeless, reminding him of the girl he had encountered thirteen years ago.
"Stop," I told the driver, and the vehicle screeched to a halt.
Stepping out of the car, I approached for a better view, only to find the girl breaking down in tears.
"Why is my life like this? Why am I so destitute?" she wailed.
"Oh, she's in need of money. Poor human," I thought, strangely feeling sadness and a discomfort at the sight of her despair.
"How much do you want?" I asked, and the girl slowly raised her head.
Those eyes, as beautiful as ever, looked so pure. They reminded him of the girl he had encountered years ago, although this girl's face was smeared with poorly applied makeup.
"Why do you want to help me?" she asked, still keeping her head lowered.
"It's nothing. Just answer me," I replied.
"I want money to help me and my brother. I want power. I don't want to be bullied anymore, and if possible, I want revenge on the people from my past," she said.
"I will give you all that if you will be my girlfriend for a while," I said, making my proposition.
She lifted her head to meet his gaze before speaking, "An angel wants to date me? What have I done to deserve this?" she said, her words filled with surprise. Then, the unexpected happened.
She collapsed. Was she dead?
"Was I so handsome that she died?" I had to questioned, bewildered by the turn of events.