In the midst of thunder, the city quaked as people hurriedly retired to their abodes. However, on this desolate street, a perilous scheme was about to unfold.
"Task completed?" A frigid voice echoed through the air as the young man entered the hall. He shivered instinctively upon hearing that voice, which struck fear even amidst the roaring thunder.
"Yes, madam, said the figure before him. It was no ordinary woman, but rather Katrina, the Luna of the Mariana pack.
"Good, show me," the cold voice said once more. A silver-haired gentleman unveiled a mysterious bag and extracted a series of photographs. Katrina held the envelope delicately in her slender fingers and began to examine the images.
"My, I must commend your craftsmanship. No one would suspect that these pictures are fabricated. It brings me pleasure to see that our pack harbors such an intelligent young man," Katrina praised. The young man, upon hearing these words, felt a surge of happiness and proceeded to express his gratitude.
"Now, go and do not set foot in this pack again." Katrina's guardian presented the envelope to the young man, who thanked her and departed. Katrina continued to scrutinize the pictures, her lips curling into a wicked smile.
"Finally, the moment I have been longingly awaiting has arrived. This omega has been nothing but an annoyance, stealing the rights of my daughters. Thomas Jefferson takes great pride in his niece, Veronica. Today, I will crush all his pride. The era of Veronica Jeon's destruction commences now."
Katrina's smile widened. "This falsehood will utterly ruin your existence, Veronica Jeon. You aspire to be a leader. Let us see how you shall rise to lead this pack." With that, she turned and began her walk towards the awaiting car. Her guardian shielded her from the rain using an umbrella. She settled herself within the vehicle and commanded the driver to take her to the palace.
**
"Veronica," Alpha Thomas called out her name. As she stepped into her uncle's office, Aunty Katrina and her guardians stood before her. Upon observing their presence, she positioned herself in front of her uncle. His eyes betrayed no affection for her on this particular day. "You summoned me, Uncle?" she inquired anxiously.
He peered at her and tossed a handful of papers in front of her. As her gaze fell upon them, her eyes widened with shock. The photographs displayed her in bed with a man. In one particular image, they shared a kiss. Tears cascaded down her cheeks. "These are not me, Uncle," she stammered. However, both Katrina and her guardians accused her. She was utterly perplexed and unable to comprehend the situation.
"I apologize, my alpha, but I exerted great effort in attempting to prevent Veronica from traversing that path. She dried her tears. I apologize for my failure." Katrina began weeping; her insincere tears started to affect everyone, yet Veronica recognized her deceit.
"Uncle, I am unaware of this. Uncle, it is all falsehood." And then, for the first time, she comprehended that she was an orphan. The slap across her face tore into her very soul.
"Veronica, you shattered my trust. You are no longer permitted to utter a word. I committed a grave error by placing my trust in you." Her hand rested upon my cheek, while her eyes gazed upon the floor.
Alpha commanded, "She is not my niece; she is not the future leader of our pack; she is now our slave. Katrina, remove her from my sight; do what you must with her; she is dead to me." Then Alpha Thomas Jefferson departed.
And thus began the most arduous period of her life, when exams lay in wait for her incessantly. Tears cascaded from her eyes.
**
In the dead of the night, she stood by the doorway, her belongings scattered on the ground. Fear consumed her. She glanced about; perhaps a human being was present, but there was no one in sight.
"From this day forward, she observed Katrina standing before her, wearing a smile, this is your dwelling, and I am your mistress." Her smile was akin to poison to her.
"Why, aunty, did you falsely accuse me?" Tears of anguish streamed down her cheeks while her heart throbbed. She yearned for an explanation. The rain soaked her, yet she did not budge from her spot. Her body quivered from the cold, but she desired an answer regarding what had transpired within her pack.
Katrina drew near, swaying her curly hair; red was her signature hue. With her lithe figure, towering stature, and that gleaming crown upon her head, which once belonged to Veronica's mother, this woman was undeserving of such an accolade.
"I did not desire this, Veronica, but you left me with no choice. How could I bear witness to your ascending as the leader of this pack? I implored you to leave your aspirations unfulfilled, yet you paid me no heed. She circled her. - I warned you countless times that if anyone were to lead this pack, it would be my daughter, Lara, but you failed to comprehend. Now, do not shed tears before me."
Veronica glared at her in anger. "This pack belongs to my father, and I am its leader." Her face turned away, and Katrina struck me. She continued to observe the raindrops falling onto the ground. Katrina gripped her chin in her hands; her nails dug into Veronica's cheeks.
"Remember this: starting today, your position will be that of our servant. It is imperative that you refrain from questioning my authority or raising your voice in my presence, and above all, you must comply with my every command. Bear in mind that any form of defiance will lead to dire consequences."
It was evident from the tone of her voice that she was issuing a threat. Consequently, she found herself rendered speechless.
Katrina continued to fix her gaze upon Veronica, then, shaking her head, she departed, leaving her stranded in this wretched place. The guard in Katrina's employ handed her the key to the house before making his own exit.
With trembling hands, she grasped the key and proceeded to gather her damp belongings. Fearful of the impending thunder, she hastened to unlock the door and promptly shut it behind her upon entry. As she surveyed the room, she discovered that seated on the floor, tears were flowing freely. This undeserved treatment is overwhelming.
It is often said that patience yields sweet rewards; however, in her case, the fruits of perseverance have been exceedingly bitter. Throughout her childhood, youth, and now into her twenty-ninth year of existence, she has known nothing but a constant state of suffering. The desire to escape consumes her. Her name is Veronica Jeon, and this is her agonizing tale.
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Veronica's POV...
On the night of my birth, a full moon illuminated the sky. Jia Beta, my mother, and Alpha Jeon, my father, held the esteemed positions of alpha Luna within our Mariana pack. After two years of marriage, my parents welcomed their long-awaited child, an occasion that was cause for celebration among our pack.
Alpha Jeon often recounted the grand three-day festivity held in honor of my birth, while my mother would fondly reminisce about how joyous my uncle, Alpha Thomas, was following my arrival. It took my father three years to find his mate, my mother. Many believed the moon's blessings had not graced him, and he was plagued with sadness and loneliness due to the unkind words of others.
Despite his tireless search, my father continually came up empty-handed. Moved by my father's sorrow, my grandfather decided to intervene.
At the age of 19, my father's engagement was arranged with Beta Katrina from the lavender pack. However, fate had other plans. Upon entering the University of Pack, my father finally crossed paths with Jia, his true mate, and their hearts were entwined. He courageously called off the engagement with Beta Katrina, and my parents were married. Beta Jia proved herself an exceptional Luna, taking excellent care of the Mariana pack. My father and grandfather held great admiration for her skills. Tragedy struck when I was just three years old.
My grandfather passed away, leaving my father and Uncle Thomas, who was then 18 years old and still in high school, under his care. Taking on the role of a father, my own father raised Uncle Thomas as his own. Eventually, Uncle Thomas expressed his desire to wed Katrina, who happened to be both my father's ex-fiancée and the daughter of the lavender pack's leader.
Understandably, my parents agreed, and Uncle Thomas and Katrina were married. At that time, I was a mere four years old. Uncle Thomas and Aunt Katrina went on to have twins, Sara and Lara, who were five years younger than me and possessed remarkable beauty.
When I was seven years old, tragedy struck once more as my parents met their untimely demise. The loss was immeasurably painful, and I felt an indescribable void without my father's guiding presence and my mother's unconditional love. Yet Uncle Thomas stepped in, assuming the role of provider and protector for me and our pack. Sara, Lara, and I became siblings, growing up alongside one another.
Despite my efforts to befriend them, circumstances always seemed to drive a wedge between us. Although I was an omega, my father had always envisioned me as the future leader of the Mariana pack.
Through their support and encouragement, my parents instilled in me the resilience needed to face any challenge. Though I was lonely following their passing, Uncle Thomas ensured that their absence was not keenly felt; he loved me as if I were his own child, surpassing even his love for Sara and Lara.
My higher education was supported by my uncle, and time passed by. I successfully passed all my exams, and, alongside my studies, I also commenced leadership training. Under my uncle's direct supervision, I underwent rigorous training. At the age of 13, my uncle began to include me in business meetings, where he would enlighten me about politics and teach me history.
When I reached the age of 16, I vividly remember my first encounter with my wolf companion, Tira, on a moonlit night. The pain that accompanied the transformation into a wolf is nothing short of overwhelming. Waves of excruciating agony surged through my entire body as my bones elongated and reshaped. My muscles contracted and expanded, tearing and regenerating, sending sharp jolts of pain coursing through my limbs. The transformation itself was a violent process, as my human skin gave way to a thick, coarse fur sprouting from every pore. The experience of my internal organs reorganizing themselves was nauseating, and the pressure in my head was unbearable. Nevertheless, amidst the torment, there was a peculiar exhilaration that accompanied the embrace of my primal nature. The pain served as a necessary sacrifice for the liberation and authority that being a wolf bestowed upon me.
Once I met Tira, my wolf companion, I found solace in conversing with her as if I had found a true friend. I no longer felt alone. Every day before sunrise, we would run together in the mountains, relishing the feeling of freedom. During our runs, we would sit by the lake, patiently awaiting the arrival of the sun. In the depths of my mind, I would engage in conversations with my parents.
I proudly identified as the brave omega, although Aunty Katrina would often undermine my position, making me feel weak. Sara held the rank of beta while Lara was the alpha, but these labels held little significance to me as omegas enjoyed a special place within our pack and were highly respected.
The credit for this goes to my mother, the esteemed Luna, who established the rules that every member of the Mariana pack was obliged to follow. As omegas, we took pride in our pack. However, I remained oblivious to the impending changes that would soon disrupt my life, causing restlessness. Little did I know that those who once loved me would soon bring ruin upon me. I was unaware that I would soon face accusations so damning that I wouldn't be able to meet my own gaze.
*
I awakened before sunrise, noting that I still had ample time before I needed to head to the palace. Hence, I reclined and gazed at the ceiling above me. Yesterday marked my 29th birthday, yet, as per usual, I refrained from celebrating. Each day, for me, was a monotonous blend of sorrow and weariness. In my room, I rose from my bed and opened the window. It is beneficial for your health to breathe in the fresh morning air.
This place where I reside is inhabited solely by wild animals, devoid of any human presence. I shut the window and proceeded to relocate the mattress, which lay on the floor, placing it in the corner. My next destination was the bathroom, where I found myself standing before the mirror.
I embarked on an introspective examination of my own reflection, noting the gradual disappearance of the wound near my lips. Time had a way of healing the numerous scars on my body, only for new ones to arise after a few days. It so happens that my cousin Lara has a unique fondness for me, making me the unfortunate recipient of her venting of anger. I do not claim to be exceptionally attractive or repulsive, but the presence of this scar renders me unsightly.
I once made a plea to Lara, allowing her to strike any part of my body except my face. Alas, she interpreted my request as an invitation to target my face specifically. After washing my face, I made my way towards the kitchen. I placed the kettle on the stove and then redirected my steps towards the living room. I proceeded to change my attire after removing the clothes I had been wearing.
Thereafter, I returned to the kitchen, indulging in a cup of tea before washing it and making my way back to the room. It was there, in front of the mirror, that I cast my final gaze upon my own countenance. With a comb in hand, I meticulously arranged my black, curly locks.
My deep blue eyes stared back at me, bearing a striking resemblance to my father's, just as my hair mirrored that of my mother's. Although my eyes used to exude brightness, sadness has now claimed them entirely. "Come on, Veronica, a fresh day brings new hope. Remember, you are the most cherished and endearing child of Jeon and Jia. Better days will surely come," I said with a grin, embellishing the words in writing and affixing them to the mirror. Though challenging to embody, I made it a point to recite them daily.
When I stepped outside, I recognized that the days of happiness had waned, leaving behind a trail of misery. Brushing away my tears, I departed with a melancholic expression etched upon my face.
*
Mariana's collective was once my own. Within this palace, I once dwelled as a princess. However, with the passing of my parents, my claim to this empire diminished. In the presence of my parents, they all revered me, yet since their demise, I am met with disdain in the eyes of those around me. And all of this has transpired due to a sin I never committed.
Upon entering through the rear entrance, my immediate destination was the kitchen. Speed was of the essence, as I needed to swiftly prepare breakfast for everyone. My first order of business was to whip up breakfast for Alpha and Luna. Alpha always came first.
With the coffee maker brewing in the background, I gathered the necessary ingredients for pancake batter, carefully adding them to the mixer before setting it in motion.
Within our Mariana pack, each member had their own designated living quarters. Betas occupied one block, Alphas another, and so on for the rest of the werewolves. This organization was mirrored in our educational institutions as well. However, in our pack, the omegas held a unique position, a consequence of my mother's influence. Omegas in our pack were not solely tasked with childcare. Many of them held diverse professions, such as teaching in schools, running businesses, or holding esteemed positions. My mother established a code for the Omegas, which was dutifully followed by all. The Omegas held my mother in high regard. Though I reside among my own people, they view me as their servant.
Regardless, I am grateful to have found a kindred spirit among them in Sophia. Sophia, being four years my senior, was Meera's only daughter and an omega. Meera had served in our palace since childhood, starting as my parents' attendant before becoming an omega. She held a special place in my mother's heart, and after my parents' passing, Luna Katrina took Meera under her wing.
After the tragedy that occurred to me, everyone's treatment changed; their gazes were averted. Everyone, except Sophia, stood by my side. The coffee machine's persistent beeping jolted me back to reality. Subsequently, the sound of footsteps descending the stairs and chairs sliding across the floor reached my ears. It became apparent that everyone had gathered at the dining table. With a deep breath, I hastened towards the dining table, assisted by the other servants.
*
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Alexander POV...
At the stroke of midnight, I found myself amidst the vast forest, gazing up at the moon. A chilling breeze sent shivers down my spine. I am Alexander, the esteemed leader of the Haethon kingdom, holding the prestigious position of Alpha.
Ever since my father's untimely demise during my youth, I have lacked the necessary experience to govern a kingdom. Consequently, my cousin's brother, Adam, took on the role of managing my realm. However, I departed for London in pursuit of a superior education and only returned after a span of five years. Of all the birthdays, the eighteenth stands out as the most memorable for a werewolf, as it marks the moment when they encounter their destined mate.
When a werewolf discovers their fatemate, an overpowering bond and connection ensue, surpassing mere physical attraction. This unbreakable bond is believed to be the key to a werewolf's contentment and fulfillment. Seeking one's Alpha Fate mate is an ongoing journey filled with excitement and tribulations, yet the ultimate reward lies in finding the person who complements one's entire being.
However, such fortunes had not befallen me, for I had yet to find my fated mate. In pursuit of her, I tirelessly searched but faced nothing but failure. As time progressed, I ascended to the role of the Haethon Kingdom's leader, while my cousin Adam united with his mate, Seema. Thus, we lived our lives in this manner.
Nevertheless, fate had plotted an alternative course. Tia, my cousin's daughter, entered the picture. With Seema's unfortunate demise upon Tia's birth, we became the guardians of this precious child. Adam, ravaged by the loss of his mate, met his own demise one fateful night, leaving me solely responsible for Tia.
Throughout her upbringing, I ceased searching for a mate, accepting my duty as Tia's caretaker. Rumors circulated that the Moon Goodness held disdain for me, hence my lack of a fated mate. Yet such hearsay held no sway over me, for I remained indifferent to the opinions of others. Within my kingdom, we prospered, surpassing neighboring realms in prominence.
A harmonious existence prevailed, as all individuals enjoyed equal rights. Here, Alpha, Beta, and even Omega stood on the same ground, revered by all. In our domain, the concept of slavery was nonexistent. As I contemplated the moonlight for a fleeting moment, I proceeded towards the palace. Tomorrow beckoned for a crucial meeting with leaders from various packs.
*
Morning..
At the crack of dawn, I stood on my balcony, overlooking the majestic mountains that embraced our kingdom. Nestled within their embrace, my father had painstakingly established the realm, pouring his time and effort into its development. Now, the onus rested solely on my shoulders.
The most notable aspect of our kingdom lies in its emphasis on equality. Here, alpha, beta, and even omega basked in the same respect. A fair society devoid of servitude thrived.
A knock resounded on my room's door, heralding the arrival of my loyal beta, Laim. Bearing a glass of juice, he entered with a smile, though worldweariness lurked in his eyes. "When do you plan on heeding my advice, my friend? A glass of juice does not suffice as breakfast," he inquired, his disappointment evident.
Gazing upon the majestic mountains and inhaling deeply, I directed my gaze towards him and replied, "Laim, my heart does not yearn for breakfast."
Taking a seat beside me, Laim expressed his concerns. "How much longer will you be alone? Will we never resume our search for your destined companion? Alex, you are not only my friend and brother but also the esteemed leader of our pack. Although you may be unaware of it, your people require the presence of Luna in order to properly care for both you and the pack. You are not simply a leader, but an alpha. Your fated mate has the ability to complete you. Consider the wellbeing of your wolf, Alex. Observe how he displays his discontent towards you. He remains dormant and unresponsive, and you no longer engage in your previous activities. How much longer will this endure?"
Remaining silent in contemplation, Laim studied me momentarily before rising to his feet. "I shall retrieve your attire. In the meantime, please finish your juice. We have a meeting ahead. However, I must emphasize, Alex, that I cannot bear witness to your solitude any longer." With that statement, Laim exited the room.
The yearning for a mate consumed me, yet her essence eluded me. I combed through every conceivable location in my search, to no avail. Eventually, I began to suspect that I was the type of alpha who incurs the wrath of the moon goddess. Destined to lead a life devoid of a mate, I embraced this lonely fate.
Adopting Tia provided a glimmer of hope, and now she is my source of happiness. Admittedly, my people anxiously await Luna's arrival. Several individuals have suggested that I sacrifice and claim an omega as my own Luna, but such a course of action is beyond my capacity. My wolf compels me to heed the advice of others as a means of escaping loneliness.
However, I refused to allow anyone other than my fated mate to touch me, which eventually incurred the wrath of my wolf, Tiger. It has been five long years since he last communicated with me. I have lost the ability to shift, reducing me to a mere alpha, an ordinary leader.
*
"The esteemed ruler of Haethon Kingdom, Alexander, has forged a lucrative partnership with the renowned entrepreneur, Mariana Pack. Within the region, Mariana Pack boasts an impressive record of successful ventures. Collaborations with other kingdoms have consistently yielded substantial growth and expansion for all parties involved. The alliance between Haethon Kingdom and Mariana Pack holds great promise, as their combined efforts are poised to attract new investments, foster job opportunities, and ultimately enhance the lives of the kingdom's citizens. While the specific endeavors they shall undertake are yet to be revealed, anticipation runs high for the prosperous future that lies ahead."
Upon hearing this announcement, the business team representing Mariana Pack rose from their seats and made their way to the stage. Laim proceeded to congratulate each member with a firm handshake. Following the signing of the document, Alexander and Thomas exchanged handshakes, posed for photographs, and engaged in conversation.
During their farewell moment, Alexander took the opportunity to address Thomas. "I trust, Mr. Thomas, that you will follow in the footsteps of your esteemed elder brother, Mr. Jeon, who had been an exceptional business partner to my father. The strides you have made in the past few years have brought us great joy as business associates."
Thomas responded reassuringly, "Rest assured, Mr. Alexander, you will find no cause for complaint. As we are now business partners, why not pay a visit to our pack this weekend and spend a few days there? I would be thrilled to show you around our Mariana Pack as well as the location of our newly developed housing project. Having a prominent figure like yourself grace our pack would be an honor."
Thomas looked at me expectantly. Personally, I am not fond of visiting others' packs, but something about his words resonated with me. Ultimately, I found myself agreeing with Thomas' proposition.
"Certainly, Mr. Thomas, I gladly accept your invitation."
Thomas beamed with satisfaction. "Now, if you'll allow me, I shall take my leave."
Thomas offered his hand for a parting handshake, which I accepted while wearing a smile. "Take care of yourself, Mr. Thomas."
Soon after, Mr. Thomas departed in his car, and I remained there for a moment before departing alongside Laim. I couldn't help but anticipate the arrival of the weekend, although the reason for my excitement eluded me.
*
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