Ch. 106..110: Alpha King’s Lost Luna Chapter 106-110

Chapter 106 Anything for you Cas sandra seemed lost in her thoughts for a moment. As I waited for her to answer my question, I tried to read her expression. I hadn’t meant to sound so harsh, but I knew there was something she wasn’t telling me, and it was killing me not to know. “There’s nothing you can do about this,” she said finally. “I could do anything for you, Cas sandra,” I insisted, and I stared deeply into her eyes. “I can deal with Margaret. I assure you, it won’t be like last time. She isn’t going to get away with this, not if I have anything to do with it. You can trust me.” “How?” she asked. Tears started to form in her eyes, but she quickly blinked them away. “How will you deal with it, Asher? You said you would look into this, but there’s nothing to look at. Margaret and Adalyn want to punish Erika because she’s associated with me. What could you do to them? They’re your wife and your stepmother. Besides… as much as I hate to say this, they have very good, plausible reasons to do all of this. Prince Marco and Lady Adalyn’s lives have been in danger several times over, and it seems reasonable for them to question a ‘suspicious’ maid. If you punish them severely, how will the councilors and the other Pack members handle it? What will they say? That your judgment is blinded by some vicious healer who tried to seduce you?” I stood there stunned as her words crashed over me. It took all of my power and restraint to keep my jaw from dropping. Still, my lips parted in surprise as I blinked at her. “You see, Asher, it’s never a matter of trust,” she said, and her voice became yer as her eyes fell to the floor. “I’ve always trusted you. That’s why five years. go…” When her voice trailed off, I reached out, grabbed her hand, and gently pulled her into my arms. This time, she didn’t fight against my touch, and she leaned up 1/4

against me. “I’m sorry, Cas sandra,” I whispered. “I’m so sorry,” I wanted to explain what had happened five years ago, but no matter what I said, it would sound like an excuse. I hadn’t managed to save her.

It was all my fault. I’d spent every day for the past five years regretting my actions and yearning. for a way to go back in time and do everything in my power to prevent the inferno. I’d had countless nightmares, and even more countless daydreams about what Coral had gone through, all because I hadn’t been able to save her. I knew my words would never be enough, but I couldn’t stop uttering them. anyway. As I continued to whisper my apologies, Cas sandra remained silent. We stood. there for a while, until finally, she lifted her head and raised her chin until our eyes met. “I want to move out of the palace,” she said softly. My eyes widened and my eyebrows creased together in surprise. Was sne going to run away from me again, just as she’d tried back in Wild Crawler? Just as I was about to deny her request, she began to speak again. “I wouldn’t go far,” she explained. “I was just thinking I could set up a small clinic near the palace, just like I had back in Wild Crawler. I could see patients there, and Keep conducting my research… things wouldn’t have to change much. I would just be a small distance away from Merliscire.” I stared at her and tried to understand. I pulled away slightly and began to pace O 2/4 slowly.

“I don’t know about this, Cas sandra,” I said as I stared out the window. “I.. | would be worried about your safety.” “Do you think it’s safe for me to stay in the palace?” she countered. She had a point. Everything that had happened so far was proof of that. She was in danger, and so were the people around her. There was no use denying it any longer. Cas sandra took a step toward me. “You asked me what I wanted,” she said. “This is it, Asher. I think this is a plan that could serve everyone well. Finnick, Erika, and I would be far safer, since no one would be able to do anything to us in public. They would only be able to access the clinic with permission. Margaret, Adalyn… I wouldn’t have to worry about surprise attacks or unannounced visits. I would be able to keep a more watchful eye on Finnick and it would also allow me to focus more on my research.” She took another step. “I would still be willing to come to the palace to do our health checks,” she assured me. “I still intend on fulfilling my duties.” “Or I could come visit you,” I suggest. “We could conduct the health checks there.” Her expression brightened. “Really?” I chuckled. This was the first time I’d seen such a relaxed and hopeful pression on her face since she’d arrived at the palace. “Listen, I’m not saying yes straight away,” I said. “But will think on it. I think this s an idea worth considering, but there are a lot of things plan out. We would need to find a nice location that is distant enough to give you privacy, yet isn’t too far away should we need you in the palace for any reason.” 3/4 “Thank you, Asher,” Cas sandra replied, and she offered me a brilliant smile. “Thank you. I really appreciate you taking this into consideration.”

I smiled back at her. “Of course. In the meantime, is there anything else I can do for you?” She thought about it for a moment. “There is something else,” she admitted. “I was wondering if it would be possible for me to get in touch with Wild Crawler. I know it might seem silly to admit, but I miss my old assistant, Marley, and Finnick misses his friend Dominic. With everything going on, I think Finnick could use a phone call with his friend.” At the mention of Finnick, I felt a knot form in my stomach. Awkwardness filled the air, and I fought for the right words to say. “I think we might be able to arrange that,” I said cautiously, and then after a deep breath, I ran my hands through my hair. “Cas sandra… when, or should I say if, you move out of the palace, would it be possible for me to visit more often? I’d like to get to know Finnick more.” The healer’s eyes widened at the idea, and as she considered my question, my heart raced a little. Though we hadn’t breached the subject directly, Finnick was my son. I barely knew the boy, and I wanted to change that. I’d missed out on so many years of getting to know him. I wanted to rectify the situation as soon as possible. “I think that would be just fine,” she decided.. “As long as you disguise yourself or something. I think too many frequent trips could become a little suspect.” “A disguise,” I chuckled. “Yes, I think that can be arranged.” I stepped over and took her hands in mine. “A clinic outside of the palace, a phone call with Wild Crawler, is there anything Is you desire?” I asked. “Name it Cas sandra, and it’s you s” 414

 

Chapter 107 Call Marley CAS SANDRA “Name it, Cas sandra, and it’s yours.” My new name from his lips sounded just as sweet as ever, and a chill ran through me. No matter how many days went by, I remained so enamored with Asher Collins. For a moment, I was surprised by his generosity, but then I realized I was just getting a glimpse at the old Asher. He’d always been so dedicated and caring. There was no reason for me to be shocked that he still was. As his gorgeous gray eyes stared into mine intensely, I thought of what Erika had said. I wanted to ask him about Adalyn and the circumstances that led to their marriage. I wanted to know if she’d trapped him or if there was some unknown reasoning that I wasn’t aware of. If I could get answers, maybe I could settle the storm of my thoughts and figure out how we could move forward. Everything was such an intricate puzzle and all I wanted were answers. Before I could gather the courage, Asher spoke again. “Think about it,” he advised. “In the meantime, I wanted to tell you that I spoke with the imposter. He told me that he wasn’t the masked man in the basement, but he believes that man is the one who’s the mastermind behind all of this.”” As he explained what the imposter had told him, my stomach twisted into knots and a chill ran through me. “The masked man was also the one behind the inferno,” he revealed quietly. Another shiver travelled down my spine and for a moment, I swore I was about lose my balance and sink to my knees. I knew it. I knew they were all involved in that awful fire. Images of the flames danced in my mind, along with the voices that mocked and sneered at me as the poison was shoved down my throat. My hand rose up to my neck instinctually. III 0 1/6

“I can stop if this is too hard to hear,” Asher whispered. His words brought me back to reality, and I managed to shove down the terrible thoughts. “It’s okay,” I insisted after I gathered myself. “Please, keep going. What else did you find out?” “The imposter didn’t know the identity of the masked man,” Asher said, and he let out a sigh. “But from the sounds of it, he’s a powerful man in Anemond.” So, it likely wasn’t Oliver Moses after all. The imposter would have known it was him by the sound of his voice that day in the corridor. Still, I wasn’t going to relax. The Beta couldn’t be trusted and I couldn’t cast aside my doubts about him, no matter what was presented.

“Do you remember anything about the masked man from your encounter in the basement?” Asher asked. I shook my head. “Not really. He attacked me from behind and placed a cloth over my nose. The chemicals on the rag paralyzed me and made me too dizzy to keep anything straight. I was too weak to recall any specific details. Asher nodded. “I figured as much. That’s alright. Well, if anything comes to mind, please let me know. On another note, I think the imposter might at least be able to help us figure out the poisons in the venoms.” My eyebrows shot up. “Becky and I have also made progress on that front. I think we’re getting closer to an answer.” “Good,” Asher remarked, and then his expression grew even more serious. “I h o re we can find the truth behind everything soon.” “Me too,” I agreed. “Me too.” *** The next day, Asher made good on his word, and Finnick and I were escorted from our room by a pair of ser vants. They led us down the bustling hallway until wa 2/6

reached a door I’d never noticed before. One of the ser vants held it open for us, and once we stepped inside, I was surprised to see we had been brought to what looked like a personal office. Much like Asher’s study, the room had tall windows, bookcases, and a large, dark wood desk in the center of the room. A pair of leather chairs flanked the desk on either side, and in the center of the table, was a telephone. Finnick’s gray eyes widened and he perked up immediately. His grip on my hand tightened and he bounced in place. He knew exactly why we were here. “Mommy, can I talk to Dominic first?” he requested politely once the se rvants. left the room. I smiled and nodded. “Yes, baby.” We pulled one of the chairs to the other side of the desk so we could sit beside one another. Once we were situated, I dialed the number of the Pack House of Wild Crawler. I waited patiently, and once someone picked up, I requested to speak to Luna Sofia. The line went quiet for a moment, and then Sofia’s voice came through. “Cas sy?” she asked in surprise. “Cas sy, is that really you?” “Hi, Sofia,” I greeted her warmly. “Yes, it’s me. How are you?” “I’m… I’m good,” she remarked. “I’m surprised to hear from you. It’s been a month since you left us, but it feels like so much longer. We miss you very much.” “Trust me, the feeling is mutual,” I assured her. “We miss you too. It’s definitely en… eventful around here. I feel like we’ve been here in Anemond for so long.” As we chatted, Finnick began to bounce in his chair. He stared at the phone with longing, and I knew it was time to hand it over to him. “Sofia, I have Finnick beside me,” I explained to her. “He was wondering if he could speak with Dominic.” 0 3/6 “Of course he can,” Sofia replied warmly. “Just give me one minute while I go and grab him.” “Sounds good,” I said. As I waited for her to return, I explained the situation to Finnick and passed him

the phone. He accepted it carefully, and once another voice came through the line, his expression lit up. As he spoke with his friend, he looked happier than he’d been since we’d arrived in Anemond. My heart swelled with joy at the sight of it. He’d been through so much recently, he deserved some happiness. He told Dominic all about what he’d seen in the capital, the bustling market, and the “adventure” he’d experienced. He spoke of a pair of “villains” who I knew at once were Adalyn and Margaret. All of it was a little amusing to hear in his childish voice, but his next declaration. tugged at my heartstrings. “I don’t like Anemond, Dominic,” he said quietly. “I think Wild Crawler is much better. And besides, you aren’t here.” I felt terrible for Finnick. This move had been so hard on him. I completely understood where he was coming from. Luckily, it seemed like Dominic had something kind and uplifting to say, as Finnick’s smile returned moments later. “You’re right,” Finnick agreed. “Besides, there’s nothing to worry about. I’m al man now and I’m prepared for challenges like the ones we read about in our favorite books.” I couldn’t help but smile. When Finnick said goodbye and handed the phone back to me, I heard Sofia’s voice again. We made a little more small talk, and then I shifted the subject. “How is Marley?” I asked. “And the clinic?” ||| 4/6 “Marley is somewhere around here,” Sofia replied. “Why don’t you ask her for yourself?” “That would be wonderful,” I said. “Thank you! “It’s no trouble at all, Cas sy.” Moments later, Sofia called Marley’s name, and I heard my assistant ask who it was. Sofia said “You

can come see for yourself!”, and seconds later, Marley’s voice came through. “Hello?” “Hi, Marley,” I said softly. Marley gasped and then let out a squeal. “Oh, Cas sy! It’s you! I thought your forgot about me already!” “I could never forget you,” I assured her. She then “It’s been a month, but it feels like an eternity,” my friend sighed. began to ramble as she always did. It was so nice to hear her voice again. “How have you been, Cas s?” she asked me. “I’m okay,” I said simply. I didn’t want to complain about my experience in Anemond. The last thing I needed was to worry Marley. But my friend seemed to pick up on my distress anyway. “I know Anemond isn’t the best place to be,” she said gently. “Especially with at ba stard of an Alpha King around. I’m sure he isn’t making things easily. He was so awful when he was here in Wild Crawler. I can only imagine how much more arogant he is in his own domain.” Heat spread to my cheeks and I quickly changed the subject. “It’s okay,” I said. “Don’t worry about me. How are you doing?” 5/6

 

Chapter 108 Promised visit CAS SANDRA My jaw dropped in surprise and my eyebrows shot up. What? Marley and her mate had always seemed so happy together. Their children were incredibly sweet as well, so I was a little surprised by all of this. “Oh Marley,” I sighed. “I’m so sorry… what happened?” “He cheated,” she revealed, and her tone was somewhere between sad and angry. “I caught them with another woman one day after work. It was a slow day at the clinic, so I left early, and I caught them right in the middle of the… act.” “Oh no,” I breathed. “Oh no.” “Yeah,” she scoffed. “Can you believe it, Cas sy? I was so shocked that I tripped. and fell down on the way out of the room. I almost broke my nose. And then, the shameless ba stard tried to blame the whole affair on me. He said all of this happened because I was too focused on my work and cared too little about him.” “That’s bu ll s hit,” I blurted out, and anger swelled within me. “It’s not your fault in the slightest.” “I know,” she said quietly. “Doesn’t make it hurt any less, though. Oh, well. I guers that’s just how it goes something.” Though her voice was strangely calm, I knew that she was clearly upset. I felt noad and even worse, I didn’t know how to comfort her. “I’m sorry, Marley,” I apologized. “I know you’ve been dealing with so much and me leaving you alone in the clinic probably doesn’t make things any better-” 川 O 1/5

“Don’t apologize, Cas sy,” she cut me off. “Seriously, it’s not your fault, and it’s not the clinic’s fault, either. He’s been cheating on me for a while now. He probably made up all of that stuff to make me feel bad. Trust me, I don’t regret anything. Our patients mean the world to me, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.” Suddenly, it sounded like someone in the distance was calling Marley. “Come help us, Marley!” a voice I didn’t recognize yelled. “Later, I’m busy!” my friend yelled back and I giggled in response. She was ju as tough as ever. That kind of bravery and boldness wouldn’t have been tolerat Merliscire, but in Wild Crawler, Marley was in a much different atmosphere. In being around there, and my heart panged with loneliness. I missed them all so much. “What’s going on at the Pack House?” I wondered as noises appeared in the background. “It sounds really busy there. Is everything alright?” “Oh, Sofia didn’t tell you?” Marley asked in surprise. “Rayden’s going to take the crown next week! We’re decorating and preparing the Pack House for the ceremony!” I gasped. Rayden was finally going to become the Alpha of Wild Crawler? “Oh wow,” I breathed. “That’s so crazy! Marley, can you please tell him I said congratulations?” “I bet Rayden would be happier if you told him yourself,” Marley teased. “Should grab him now?” “Marley!” I gasped again. “Marley, don’t you dare!” My friend dissolved into a fit of laughter. “I’m only joking, Cas sy. I wouldn’t do that. Trust me, I’ll pass along the message myself.” 2/5 “You better,” I warningly joked. We laughed together, and the loneliness within me disappeared. Even though we were separated by thousands of miles, it felt like we were in the same room. again. It was great to share a moment like this with my friend.

Once we settled down, I asked about the clinic. “How are things going there?” I wondered. “You mentioned you were busy.” “I’m not going to lie, Cas sy, things are a mess,” Marley admitted, and then she sighed. “Over the past couple of weeks, there has been an influx of patients with the disease, and many of their conditions are only getting worse. We had an older patient pass away last week.” “They died?” I asked in shock. “From the disease?” “Yes,” Marley lamented. “I’m not sure if it was because the patient was older or if they’d been secretly living with it for longer than we’d known. But either way, it’s scary. I don’t want to admit it, but I’m terrified. Things aren’t looking good.” “I understand,” I said, and I wiped away the sweat that had broken out across my forehead.. “I’m sorry I’m not there to help you. Did the Alpha King send more healers like he promised he would?” “He did,” Marley said, and then she muttered under her breath. “It was the least. the bas tar d could do after taking you away. That being said, the healers he sent are all a bunch of cowards. They have no clue how to deal with the disease and they’re all so afraid of getting infected that they refuse to get close to the patients. A couple of them won’t even deal with infected patients at all.” “That’s awful,” I replied, and I shook my head. “What kind of healer refuses patients in need? That’s just unethical.” “You’re telling me,” Marley agreed. “I wish you were here, Cas sy. You’re ten times the healer that these b astards are.” “I wish I was there too, Marley,” I said. “I’m sorry you’re dealing with this all on 川 O 3/5 your own.” “It’s okay,” she said quietly. We fell silent, and after I took a deep breath, I thought about the older patient that had passed away. “Did Alpha Gareth manage to get a forensic specialist to examine the corpse?” I wondered. “And if so,

were they able to draw any conclusions?” “Yes,” Marley replied. “They drafted an official report of the evidence, but it was pretty inconclusive. I’ve studied the results and so have the specialist, but we can’t make any sense of it all.” I considered her words for a second. A report that not even a forensic specialist could make sense of? Wild Crawler may have been a smaller, mostly forgotten-about Pack on Wegalla’s border, but it wasn’t primitive in the slightest. Our specialists were highly trained and well educated. If they couldn’t make sense of things, the situation wasn’t good. “Are you still there?” Marley asked. “Yes, sorry,” I apologized. “I’m just thinking, that’s all.” As I fell into silence yet again, I thought about the imposter in the dungeon and quickly crafted a crude theory. Just yesterday, Asher had mentioned the Dark Abyss Pack and their war with rene. As I recounted the tale in my mind, I thought of the story Kaleb had told me and wondered if his father, the former king, had gotten infected with the disease. d. ring that same conflict. If he had, all of this might have ties to sorcery. Everything was beginning to weave together like an intricate web, and ! 4/5 couldn’t help but wonder how much was truly connected. I felt as if we were on the verge of some answers. We just needed to keep pushing forward. “I might not be able to understand it either,” I admitted. “But I think I know someone who might be able to help. Marley, do you think you’d have time to come to Anemond to visit? I think I can ask the Alpha King to arrange it all.”

Chapter 109 Yurene’s requests ASHER The meeting with the king of Yurene was arranged in the biggest meeting room in Merliscire. My attendants had been hard at work all morning, seeing to it that all of the place settings were up to par and that every last surface was clean and tidy. Normally, I didn’t care much for things like this or worry about the appearancel of the palace, but in a way, I didn’t mind showing off a bit. Kaleb had seemed wholly unimpressed with Anemond, and Wegalla in general, so I was more than happy to have my serv ants put in a bit more work to show the foreign king that we weren’t uncivilized. Most of the councilors had announced to me that we were going to discuss some key business with the king of Yuene. Admittedly, I was a bit nervous. Grand meetings such as this were not often held. In fact, the last time so many had gathered together here in this hall, my late father had called all of the councilors together to discuss Cora’s father’s intention to kill Oliver Moses. A lump formed in my throat. Luckily, this meeting would not be anything like that. I’d taken care to wear my finest suit. It was a rich, deep black, with the Cresent Pack’s emblem printed in a burgundy thread on the lapel. I half considered my crown but decided it would be overkill. I wanted to present an air of power, but not gaudiness. Kaleu and I arrived at the meeting room at the same time. The foreign king re an expensive suit as well, but it was a deep shade of blue instead of black. He wore a golden pendant with the emblem of Yurene, and his golden brown hair fell in profect waves down his shoulders. He’d clearly taken quire a bit of time to look presentable as well. The king’s dark blue eyes trailed over me and then met mine. 1/5 “Alpha Asher,” he greeted me in his accented voice, and he offered me a smile. “It has been so good to see you. I must say, you were right when you spoke to me of Anemond. It is a beautiful city after all.” The compliment would have seemed out of place if I hadn’t known that the foreign king had been off

visiting the capital with his diplomats. I offered him a polite smile. “Thank you,” I said, and after he offered me a small nod, we walked into the room.

The councilors and diplomats had already arrived and were talking loudly amongst each other. When they saw us enter the room, they fell silent, rose to their feet, and bowed their heads to greet us immediately. “Welcome, Your Majesties,” they all said in unison. I nodded and then gestured back to their chairs. “Please, take a seat.” The councilors did as instructed, and Kaleb and I walked over to the front of the table. We sat opposite one another, and once we were ready, the councilors and diplomats settled down, and the meeting began. I gathered up all of my courage and settled into the demeanor I only wore in settings such as this.. Us*” Today, I wasn’t Asher Collins. I was the Alpha King of a noble and powerful empire. “Alpha Kaleb, the floor is yours,” I said graciously. “What words do you have for “Thank you for the gesture, Alpha Asher,” Kaleb replied politely, and he offered na small smile. “I appreciate this meeting greatly. I wanted us to gather and discuss the business relationship between Yurene and Wegalla. You see, my country is rich in ore and petroleum. Wegalla is an expert in handcrafts and technology. I think an exchange and Importation system between our lands would be mutually beneficial.” III 2/5 In agreement. I chose to wait to comment. “Please, continue.”

Kaleb took a little longer to propose a system, and once he was finished, he shifted to another subject entirely. “I believe the werewolves in both of our countries deserve the opportunity to interact more often as well,” he declared. “As such, I think Wegalla should do away with their strict checking system at the border-” “This is impossible!” one of the councilors stood up and cut him off. “That idea is far too risky. The checking system’s purpose is to keep Wegalla safe from potential threats. Without it, we’d be far more liable to attack!” I raised my hand toward him. “Please, be seated,” I advised in a tone that was stern, yet gentle. “Allow the king of Yurene to finish his words.” The councilor’s face flushed scarlet, but he nodded and sat down anyway. “My apologies, Your Majesty.” “It is alright,” I said, and then I turned back to Kaleb. “Please, continue.” Kaleb smiled his lopsided smile. “I understand your concerns on the matter. I low this proposal is rather bold, but Yurene has always been open to foreigners, and it hasn’t faced any consequences of that decision. I think Wegalla could do the s me thing without worry.” “Of course Yurene isn’t afraid,” the same councilor spoke up again. “Your country is always looking for a war against other Packs-” O 3/5 remained silent. Opening the border to any and all Yurenian wolves was out of the question, and I had a distinct feeling that Kaleb wasn’t stu pid enough to think I would agree to this. So, why make the offer at all? There was an angle here, something I had yet to figure out. I needed to act in the self-interest of

Wegalla and investigate further, but remained smart. Kaleb was intelligent, but I needed to be far more cu nning if I wanted to play this political game. As the councilor’s discussion became an argument, I whistled and called for a stop. All conversation halted and the entire room stared at me. “We will discuss this matter further at another time,” I decided, and then I turned to Kaleb. “Alpha Kaleb, is that acceptable?” Kaleb nodded. “Of course, Alpha Asher.” “Good,” I said, and then I leaned forward. “Now, is there anything else Yurene. wishes to work with Wegalla on? Anything that would be mutually beneficial for our countries?” The king of Yurene glanced at his diplomats. One of them nodded, and then they began to speak in their heavily accented voices. As their requests filled the room, I settled back in. One thing was absolutely certain. < 4/5 This was going to be a long, boring meeting.

Chapter 110 Talent should be appreciated ASHER After what felt like dam n near an eternity, the meeting reached a conclusion. Despite the long hours of bartering and propositions, nothing had really been decided. The councilors were unwilling to give away any sort of information or allow any type of goods to be taken back to Yurene. They seemed too afraid of the Northern country and unwilling to allow any breach of security. The poor recorder had written pages upon pages of notes. I felt sorry for him, as his job certainly hadn’t been easy. I hadn’t expected so many arguments and disputes, and my head was pounding intensely. I desperately needed some medicine to soothe the aches brought on by my illness. “We will take all of the proposals that were made today into consideration,” I announced to the room. “Once we reach a conclusion, we will gather again and renegotiate. Thank you all for granting us your time and ideas. Councilors, you are. dismissed.” The councilors and diplomats rose to their feet and bowed obediently. As they began to filter out of the room and stood, I decided it would be best to retire to my own chamber. Cas sandra would be by later for my health check, and until then, I needed to lie down and get some rest. All of this discussion had rendered me exhauste I, and I wanted to make sure I was more awake when I got to see her. After all of this mess, I was excited to see the beautiful healer again. Jacey followed me out, and once we were away from the others, he cleared s throat. “Your Majesty, I have selected a few locations for yo to examine,” he announced, and he procured a stack of documents from a file at his side. I accepted the papers and scanned them over. I’d asked the councilor to look into a suitable location for Cas sandra’s clinic she III 1/5 wanted to open in Anemond. Jacoby was knowledgeable when it came to real estate and owned a decent patch of land. He would know the best place for her to be able to stay, somewhere where she

could run the clinic and be safe after hours. “Follow me,” I decided, and I inclined my head toward the stairs. “We can discuss things in my study.”

Jacoby nodded, and just as we were about to walk in that direction, I heard a voice behind me. “Alpha Asher, can we have a word?” I managed to stifle a groan, and turned around to see Kaleb. I paused in place and the king of Yurene rushed over to me. I frowned. What did Kaleb want? We’d just spent hours in a meeting. What more could he possibly have to say? Of course, I could use this to my advantage. I had questions too, namely about Dark Abyss. Ever since I had learned that the Pack had once been in a war with Yurene, I’d wanted to figure out what had happened. Perhaps this was my opportunity. “Sure,” I said, and then I turned to Jacoby. “We will speak later if that’s alright.” “Of course, Your Majesty,” Jacoby said, and after he bowed, I turned to Kaleb. “Let’s go to my study,” I decided. “We won’t be interrupted there.” “Excellent,” Kaleb replied. “Thank you for granting me an audience.” I led the king of Yurene up to my study, and as we grew closer, I thought of how I could bring up Dark Abyss. I couldn’t ask the foreign Alph outright, or else it yould amas s suspicion. No, I needed to conduct myself carefully so I could get the answers I needed. Kaleb was smart. But I needed to be smarter. 2/5 Once we reached the study, the guards opened the door for us, and a pair of ser vants awaited my orders. Kaleb’s jaw dropped as he studied the room. “I must say, Alpha Asher, this room is quite impressive,” he said as his eyes trailed over my many shelves of books. “This study looks more like a small library than an office.”

“Thank you,” I said, and I smiled at him politely before turning to the serv ants. “Please prepare some tea for us. Chamomile, preferably, unless you prefer something else, Alpha Kaleb.” “Chamomile is fine by me,” Kaleb replied, and then he smiled. “Thank you.” The ser vants nodded and then rushed out of the room. Once the doors were closed, I gestured toward the leather couches on the far side of the room. “Please, take a seat.” Kaleb and I walked over, and once we were seated, I cleared my throat. “What can I help you with?” I asked. The foreign king’s expression grew serious. “I heard that a dangerous man was apprehended the day before yesterday,” he said. “Yes” I confirmed. “You’re correct. But there’s no cause for worry. Everything is under control.” “Grod,” Kaleb said. “I’m glad to hear that. I don’t have all of the details of the er counter, but from what I’ve gathered, it was a scary situation. I’m pleased to know I is alright.” “Of course,” I replied. I tried not to frown. Had Kaleb really come here to discuss the man? Was this discussion going to be easier than I’d expected? I didn’t think Kaleb would offer information about Dark Abyss readily, but this seemed like an opportune 3/5 time to bring it up. “And how is Cas sandra?” Kaleb shifted the subject before I could speak again. “I haven’t seen her in days. How is she doing? Was she caught up in the awful affair?” This time, I frowned. “Healer Cas sandra is quite busy these days,” I said vaguely. “But she is fir Hard at work.” As petty as it sounded, I didn’t like the way the king of Yurene paid too much attention to the healer and didn’t want him anywhere near her.

“I was hoping to see her again,” Kaleb mused. “But it seems that there are always guards surrounding her room or the place where she works.” “Security measures,” I noted through gritted teeth. “Surely, you understand. Besides, she’s my private healer. What business do you have with her?” “Oh, please relax,” Kaleb chuckled, and he raised his hand. “I was simply wondering how my friend was doing and wanted to ask her some questions.” “What kind of questions?” I wondered as my eyebrow shot up. What kind of business did he have with Cas sandra? “I could ask them for you.” Kaleb smirked. “That is very kind of you, Alpha Asher. I would be grateful if you could ask her on my behalf. I was simply wanting to know if she had considered my offer thoroughly.” “Your offer?” I wondered. “What offer?” Kaleb’s smirk shifted into a smile. He looked utterly fox-like, and I felt a mix of nger and intrigue. He was being purposely vague to both me, and as much as I ated to admit it, his efforts were working. He was hiding something, and I needed to know what it was immediately. “I invited Healer Cas sandra to come to the North,” he revealed as he tucked his hair behind his ear casually. “I think talents such as hers would be far more 4/5 appreciated in Turane.”