...Amara Follen...

"Well, well, well, look what's in our way, none other than the girl without a wolf. Alpha Lina exclaimed."

"You know, Lina, I don't understand how they still allow a wolfless to live in this castle. Inquired Vick, the Alpha daughter from the neighboring pack."

"Regrettably, I 'still' don't get to choose who lives in this castle, and as her father is my father's Gamma, I'm forced to put up with this vermin."

"Can't wait for you to become the Alpha of this pack and boot all the dead weight out of the gates."

"I'm eager for that day too."

And you, Amara, don't cross my path again, your presence is repulsive.

Take this as an order from your Alpha.

"Yes, Alpha Lina, I will do so. I was just here to see if you needed anything?"

"What I want, is for you to disappear from my sight."

"By your leave!"

I replied politely, as I had become accustomed to being belittled by Alpha Lina, who always made it clear what my place was, never missing a chance to humiliate me, not even the Royal Alpha dared to contradict his daughter, fearing that going against Lina was akin to displeasing the Moon Goddess.

This was all due to the prophecy he had received 21 years ago, which revealed that his firstborn would be the most powerful supernatural being to walk the earth, and when Lina was born three years later, he was convinced that she would lead the werewolves to a new supreme hierarchy.

She was of pure blood, both her father and mother were Alphas, which was rare these days, just like the mate bond. The last known bond was that of Alpha James and Luna Sther, Lina's parents.

And me? Well, I was at the bottom of the pack, a wolfless who never managed to transform. Fortunately, I still had my father Lian, the current Gamma of our Alpha James – my father is the being I admire the most, always showing strength, even after my mother died in battle. Despite the grief in his eyes, he never faltered.

"May I ask what my beautiful little wolf is contemplating?"

"Daddy... I ran into his arms and snuggled in as he stroked my long black hair." How was the meeting with the Alpha?

"Daughter..."

"Yes? It seems the meeting is a matter of delicate concern; you're furrowing your brow..."

"Amara, child, from today on everyone is forbidden to wander alone at night, especially in the woods."

"And why is that, daddy?"

"Vampires have been spotted near our border, and throughout the forest."

I don't want you to risk your life. Do you understand?

"Yes, I understand."

"Good. I need to return to my duties, I'll see you at dinner."

"Okay, daddy, see you later!"

Amara, Amara – an anxious voice called me at the end of the kitchen; it was Mia, my only friend, an Omega with a big heart, always bouncing around with her long, unruly red hair, emerald eyes, freckles on her nose, and curvy body, making her quite charming.

"Mia, what's happened that you're so excited? Did you finally find your mate?"

A wide smile crossed my lips as Mia grimaced at the mention of her mate.

"Ugh, Amara, you know the mate bond isn't a thing anymore…"

I came here to spill some gossip.

"Gossip?"

"Guess what the walls told me?"

"Spill it, Mia, you know you can't be seen in the castle. If Alpha Lina sees you here, it's likely both our heads will be on a stake by tomorrow."

"May the Goddess protect me..."

Amara, I heard that the entire family of the Northern Alpha, the second most powerful pack, will be attending Miss Lina's birthday.

"The whole family? That's odd, it's always just been the Alpha and the Luna. Why would the whole family come?"

"Well, that part I've yet to uncover."

I'd better return before someone sees me.

"Okay, see you!"

"..."

Lina Hanks

"Lina, is it true that the entire family of the Northern Alpha will be attending your eighteenth birthday?"

"Vick, you're quite the inquisitor, you know? But answering your question, yes."

"But why is the whole family coming?"

"You'll know soon enough."

"Ugh, you're always so mysterious..."

I heard that Brendon Scott, the son of the Northern Alpha, is very good-looking and quite intimidating.

"He's an Alpha, it would be strange if he weren't intimidating. My father must have his own reasons for inviting the entire family to my birthday; he's probably seeking some sort of alliance."

"..."

Alpha James Hanks

I'm always extremely nervous when Alpha summons me, with sweaty palms and labored breath. Trying to calm down, I knock on the door and an authoritative voice bids me enter.

"Amara, how are you?"

"I'm well, Alpha James!"

"I hope no one has been troubling you."

"You needn't worry, no one bothers me... I lie as I watch my Alpha pull out a large gift box with a beautiful red bow on top."

"I bought this present for you, I hope you like it!"

Don't feel embarrassed, come on, take it.

"But, I shouldn't accept, what will the others think?"

"They will say that the Alpha has gifted the beloved daughter of his best friend, whom I hold in high regard."

Now open your gift.

"Okay."

My eyes nearly popped out when I saw a gorgeous strapless red dress with a side slit and a subtle back neckline. — Thank you, Alpha, it's beautiful!

"I thought you might not have anything to wear to Lina's birthday; I hope you enjoy it."

Perhaps it will help break the mate bond drought and you'll find yours?

"The dress is indeed beautiful, and I like it a lot, thank you, but I believe that a dress won't be enough for me to find my mate, I'm not even a wolf... I reply in almost a whisper."

"Don't worry, Amara, I am certain the Moon Goddess has something reserved for you."

"I hope so. I had better withdraw."

Have a great night, Alpha.

Amaris Follen

A brooding atmosphere lingered over the woods shrouded in thick fog, the crack of a breaking twig amongst the trees followed by a deafening roar sent a murder of crows fleeing from their nests, a chill ran down my spine, a great white wolf emerged from the withered trees, its fearsome canines bared, its large turquoise eyes mesmerizing. As the great wolf advanced toward me, a creature of the night with large fangs and blood-red eyes pounced, sinking its teeth into the wolf's neck, a pained howl escaped the great wolf as it collapsed, writhing in pain. Beads of sweat formed on my forehead, and an overwhelming terror seized my being. I tried to force my feet to run, but they felt rooted to the ground. The great white wolf stood again, and with a single motion, lunged toward me, pinning my frail body beneath it. I closed my eyes in panic, feeling the wolf sniffing me, a fierce desire to watch it consumed me. Upon opening my eyes, terror struck me; the wolf's eyes had turned blood-red. It had grown in size, its claws and fangs even larger than before, a hissing sound emanated from its chest, it opened its massive jaw aiming for my neck, and...

"Amaris? My dear, wake up…"

"Daddy?"

Realizing I was safe in my room, I embraced my father with all my might, allowing tears to stream down my face. I had never felt such fear in my life...

"Shh, darling, I am here. You're safe. Now, tell me what frightened you so much."

"Daddy, I... I can't remember, but please, can I just stay in your arms?"

"Of course, my little she-wolf, what kind of father would I be if I didn't?"

"Daddy, I miss mom..."

"I do too, my love, every single day."

"Daddy? Do you think I'll ever have my wolf?"

"Amaris, I'm positive she's within you, just waiting for the right moment to emerge."

I kissed her forehead, stroked her long hair, and wiped her tears with my thumb.

"Now, compose yourself and get ready for the academy."

"Mmm-hmm, thank you, daddy. I love you."

"I love you too!"

...Royal Academy...

"Hey! Amaris."

You look awful, what happened?

"Hey! Mia. I didn't sleep well, I feel exhausted and weary. It seems with each passing day I grow closer to becoming human."

"Oh, friend, don't say that."

"Amaris? I thought I told you never to cross my path."

"Alpha Lina, good morning!"

Sorry, we were just leaving.

"Is this how the future leader of the Royal pack treats her people?"

"Who the heck do you think you are to talk to me that way? Do you know who you're dealing with?"

"Oh, my apologies Alpha, I haven't introduced myself, I am Kyra, descendant of the ancient witch. She retorted with a mocking tone."

"You're lucky my father allows everyone to study at this academy, otherwise I would do everything in my power to prevent creatures like you from ever daring to attend such a place."

"Oh, don't be so arrogant, young alpha, we witches are as powerful as the alphas."

"Let's go, Vick, let's leave. It seems we've stumbled upon a gathering of the rabble."

"Wow, I've never seen anyone stand up to Lina like you did. I'm already a fan."

Nice to meet you, I'm Mia!

"Nice to meet you Mia!"

And you?

"I'm Amaris, thank you for stepping in."

"Don't thank me, I hate to see people getting bullied."

I just arrived; could either of you tell me where class twenty-two is?

"It's our class; you can come with us." Mia replied brightly.

...Northern Pack...

"Alpha Scott? You wanted to see me?"

"Brandon, take a seat. I'll be brief."

"Proceed."

"In two days, our entire family will be present at Alpha Lina's eighteenth birthday. As you know, she is the alpha heir to the throne and..."

"And what has that got to do with me? Brandon interrupted, sounding impatient."

"I'd like you to grow closer to Lina. She's an alpha, just like you, and the marriage between two pureblooded alphas could be pivotal for our pack. Brandon let out a deep growl; Scott knew his son's patience was thinning, but he wouldn't waver on a matter so beneficial."

"Brandon, this discussion is not open for debate. She is the chosen one of the prophecy, and you shall become the one to reign alongside the most powerful supernatural being. It is your destiny."

"And if I find my mate one day?"

"Brandon, mate bonds have been extinct for a long time."

"Just answer my question." Brandon growled.

"If you ever find your mate, you will have to reject her."

"It seems I have no other choice."

"..."

...Lina Hanks...

The day has finally arrived for my eighteenth birthday celebration. I'm certain that from today on, everyone will respect me as their alpha. I also can't wait to meet Brandon Scott; however, what does his visit mean? I have a faint idea.

"You look stunning, my child. Sther praised, marveling at how beautiful Lina had become. She had brown hair, just past her shoulders, smooth, fair skin, and large almond-toned eyes. Her lips were thin and rosy like her mother's, the perfect amalgamation of the alpha and luna's beauty, although her inward qualities did not seem so fair. She wore a beautiful turquoise dress that further highlighted her beauty and curvaceous figure."

"Daughter, let's go, your father is waiting for us in the great hall."

"Okay."

As we reached the grand staircase leading to the great hall, my father was waiting at the bottom. I extended my hand to him, and he planted a kiss filled with warmth and tenderness onto its back as we entered the hall. Our arrival was announced, and everyone rose, bowing their heads in reverence. My eyes scoured the hall for Brandon or any members of his family.

"Father, I don't see Alpha Scott."

"Worry not, my dear; our esteemed guests will soon join us. For now, be polite and greet the leaders of the other packs."

...Amara Follen...

I feel oddly nervous tonight, a strong pressure sits in my chest, but fortunately, Mia is here to assist with my makeup and hair. It's the first time the entire pack's entry to the castle is unrestricted, signaling the Alpha might have a surprise for us tonight.

"Amara, you're done, and you're breathtaking, a true spectacle; you risk stealing all the attention meant for Lina."

"Stop talking nonsense, that would never happen."

"Then you better look in the mirror, my friend."

"Can it be, is that really me?"

I couldn't believe my own reflection; it was as if the mirrored image didn't belong to me. For the first time, I studied my reflection carefully, and for a moment wondered if I resembled my mother at this age. This fleeting thought brought a solitary tear down my cheek.

"Amara, what's wrong? Didn't you like something?"

"It's not that, just missing my mother."

"Friend, I understand you might be feeling blue, but I assure you your mother would want you to be happy. So, just for today, allow yourself that happiness and don't even think about crying, or you'll ruin all the makeup."

"I promise not to spoil the makeup."

As we descended the stairs granting access to the grand hall, and my entrance was announced as the Gamma's daughter, all eyes fell on Mia and me, and within seconds, whispers could be heard across the room. I couldn't catch exactly what was said, for my hearing wasn't sharp, but I had a vague sense of their words.

"Don't worry about what they say; they're just jealous of your beauty," Kyra declared.

"Ah, now I feel like this party is about to get more entertaining!" Mia exclaimed.

"Kyra, it's a pleasure to see you again."

Deep down, I wished I could be as receptive to Kyra as Mia was, but I was fearful of befriending a witch, aware of their potential power, especially one descended from the ancient witch.

...Lina Hanks...

I couldn't believe what was happening; that wolf-less girl had just drawn all the attention to herself. I couldn't deny she looked stunning in her crimson dress, feeling my nails dig into the palms of my hands, that girl had a knack for infuriating me.

"I still can't believe the Alpha allowed everyone in tonight," remarked Vick.

"At least it's for a good reason tonight," I replied.

"Alphas Scott, Luna Serena, and Alpha Brandon Scott," a voice announced the arrival of the most anticipated guests.

Everyone rose from their seats to greet the newcomers, the three-member family exuding a strong and intimidating aura. No guest dared hold their gaze too long as they approached the end of the stairway, where Lina eagerly awaited them along with Alpha James and his Luna.

"Alphas Scott, Luna Serena, Alpha Brandon, welcome to the Royal pack," Lina greeted.

"Thank you, Alpha Lina," replied Alpha Scott.

Following the proper greetings, everyone made their way to the grand table, laden with mouth-watering dishes. Lina's excitement upon seeing Brandon was apparent; she had never seen a werewolf as handsome as him. Brandon, with his sun-kissed skin, a finely sculpted and toned body, neatly aligned black hair, a well-trimmed beard, thick eyebrows, a slender, elongated nose, and a pair of deep green eyes. Lina could say she fell for him the moment he descended the stairs.

Brandon, on the other hand, hardly gave Lina a glance, already feeling extremely uncomfortable and repulsed by Lina's fixed gaze.

"Alpha Brandon, do you plan to stay long in our pack?" inquired Lina.

Brandon took a deep breath before answering, clearly remembering his father's words.

"Alpha Lina, I am very interested in getting to know the Royal pack better; I've heard it has the finest lands."

"I'll be sure to show you the entire territory; I guarantee you'll be charmed," Lina responded.

...Amara Follen...

"Dad, why is the Alpha family from the North here?"

"They're likely here to forge an alliance through the marriage of Alpha Brandon to Alpha Liana."

"As ever, the werewolves are power-hungry," blurted out Kyra.

"Oh, my apologies for the blunt comment."

"And clearly, they want to make their alliance wishes evident to all, seeing as they've even allowed a weak omega like me entry," pointed out Mia.

"Girls, we better not discuss matters that don't concern us."

"Amara, are you okay? You're as pale as paper," Kyra asked.

"I don't feel very well, to be honest."

"Daughter, would you like to go up and rest awhile? I can have a maid serve you some tea in your room."

"It's not necessary; I believe some fresh air will make me feel better."

"Do you want company?"

"No need, Mia, enjoy your castle stay; keep Kyra company, my father wouldn't know how to distract her."

...Brandon Scott...

The agitation and restlessness of my wolf inside were driving me insane; I'd never experienced this before. My breathing was getting uneven, my heart thumped in my chest, and the Alpha's daughter was beginning to nauseate me with her forwardness, despite having initially impressed me with her maturity and leadership talent. I needed to get out of there, so I offered them an excuse.

"Excuse me all, I must make an urgent call!"

As I stepped away from the table, a subtle scent of lavender hit my nose and filled my lungs. My chest vibrated the moment that soft fragrance enveloped me, and my wolf became more agitated, a low growl escaping my lips. The more I followed the perfume, the more intense and captivating it became. As I trod the stone path around the castle, the silhouette of a woman stood before a fountain; even from the back, I imagined she possessed stunning beauty. Her crimson red dress was a perfect contrast to her pale skin, and her long, wavy black hair made her even more beautiful. Seeing such an exquisite being, I wondered if the Moon Goddess had her favorites.

Deciding to approach, a jarring voice startled her, sending her running like a defenseless doe fleeing its predator. I could only imagine who this beautiful woman might be, owner of an addictive perfume.

"Alpha Brandon, we are about to serve the cake; we would like you to be present for this moment."