Ch. 111..115: Alpha King’s Lost Luna Chapter 111-115

Chapter 111 Don’t put her in danger again ASHER What the f uck did he just say? I sat there in disbelief, but surprise soon gave way to anger. Meanwhile, the king of Yurene seemed surprised. “I didn’t realize she hadn’t mentioned it to you yet,” he mused, and then he sat back in his seat casually. “I suppose you may wish to discuss it with her next time you see her. Perhaps speaking with her directly would be best-” “There’s no need,” I said shortly as my hands curled into fists at my sides. “Healer Cas sandra will not be going to the North with you.” I expected Kaleb to have a different reaction. He remained quite calm and gave me an interesting expression. “I had heard that the current Alpha King of Wegalla was less arbitrary than the former ones, but it seems like that isn’t true,” he stated, and then he smirked. “You can’t decide this for Cas sandra. She told me she would think about my offer instead of denying it at once, so clearly it’s something she’s taking under serious consideration.” “I don’t see why she would leave Wegalla,” I countered as I fought to stay collected. “Cas sandra has work to do here, and besides, her son is here. Why would she uproot her life to go to a more barbaric country?” Kaleb opened his mouth to speak, but I knew that if he said anything further, I Cild only lash out further. So instead, I rose to my feet and gestured toward the dcr. “If you’ll excuse me, Alpha Kaleb, I have some urgent matters to discuss with my councilors,” I announced. “I’m afraid I have to ask you to leave at once.” 1/4.

My volume was loud enough to trigger the guards, who immediately entered the room without permission. Normally, I didn’t allow that kind of behavior, but their stry was welcome. I needed the king of Yurene to go before I lost all control and gave into my more primal nature. Kaleb didn’t put up a fight, and instead, rose to his feet. He bowed, and just as he was leaving the room, he turned around and smiled once more. “If you’re so confident, Alpha ASher, why don’t you ask her for yourself?” I didn’t reply and simply allowed him to leave. The king of Yurene was only trying to bait me further, but I wouldn’t fall for it. I knew there was a reasonable explanation for all of this. Kaleb was conniving, but I trusted Cas sandra. There was a truth that I wasn’t seeing right away, and I knew if I spoke with her, I’d get the answers I needed. I would bring it up when I had the right chance after I dealt with some of the more pestering issues around us. I would be direct with Cas sandra, but I wouldn’t push her too far. She’d just started to be more frank with me, and I didn’t want to force her. I turned to one of my guards. “Please send Councilor Jacoby in,” I announced formally, and the guard nodded and left the room. Not too long after, the guard returned with not only Jacoby, but Kane as well. I was surprised to see my brother. His visits were far more frequent lately than they’d ever been before. For probably the first time in his life, Kane’s attitude wasn’t cavalier. His hands W balled into fists at his side, and his mouth was set in a harsh, straight line. I Ein’t seen him this worked up before, so I knew I was in for a mess of trouble. “Mother is confined,” he stated the moment he walked in. I raised an eyebrow and then glanced at Jacoby. The councilor nodded and then retreated, giving my brother and me a little privacy. 2/4 I “Yes, she is,” I confirmed, and I crossed my arms against my chest. “Because she did something

wrong. Her violence was completely unnecessary and out of bounds. So what are you doing here, Kane? Are you here to interrogate me, brother? Make a case for her release?” “She told me her confinement was indefinite,” Kane replied, his violet eyes deadly serious as they stared into mine. “And that if she wants freedom, she has to apologize about what happened with the maid. Mother won’t do that. She wants to see you.” “I don’t have time for that,” I said shortly as my head pounded. Besides, you and I both know what she did was wrong. If she didn’t want to face punishment, she shouldn’t have done anything to Erika in the first place.” Kane shook his head slowly. “All of this for a maid who is suspicious of poisoning your wife and son?” he asked as his nostriis flared. “I don’t understand, Asher.” “No, not just the maid,” I sighed. “This is complex-” “Well, of course, but don’t you see the problem here, brother?” he pressed. “What problem are you referring to exactly?” I replied as my head pounded. I wanted nothing more than to sit down, but I knew this was about to get heated. Kane exhaled heavily and shook his head. “Cas sandra Keller.” The room fell silent for a moment. “Don’t you see why Mother and Adalyn did that?” Kane spoke again after a ment. “Can’t you understand?” I shook my head. “I don’t think Cas sandra is a problem-” Kane cut me off immediately. “No, brother, I don’t mean she is the problem. The problem is how much you care about her” 3/4 I frowned and forced myself to remain calm. “The more you care about her, the more Adalyn and Mother will go up against her,” Kane said softly. “Tell me this. If Erika wasn’t Cas sandra’s maid, would you have done the same? Would Mother be

confined and awaiting further punishment if the maid worked for someone else?” I remained silent and looked at my brother. As much as I tried, I was unable to read the complexity behind his eyes. “Can you be sure that they won’t turn even further on Cas sandra after this?” he continued. “They will blame all of this on her, not you. It’s always like this, Asher.” “What do you mean by ‘always like this”?” I asked, and my frown deepened as I stared at Kane. “Speak plainly, Kane.” “I mean Cora,” my brother blurted, and my face suddenly grew hot. My eyes narrowed at him as I tried to understand what he was trying to say. “This has nothing to do with Cora,” I said. “The situation is completely different than it was five years ago-” “What’s the difference, brother?” Kane retorted, and he shook his head. “The fact that you’re king now? You always overestimate yourself.” Anger swelled up within me and I gritted my teeth. Why was my brother speaking to me like this? Everything he said was so ambiguous and strange as if he was speaking in riddles. “What are you trying to say, Kane?” I sighed as I pinched the bridge of my nose between ry fingers. “Speak it straight.” Kane shook his head. “I have nothing to say, Asher,” he said, and his eyes narrowed. “It’s just a reminder. You could put her in danger again,” 4/4

Chapter 112 He didn’t love anyone The nights in Anemond were always bustling. Much to my surprise and confusion, plenty of shops remained open late well into the evening hours. Citizens moved about the streets happily and mingled with one another in an almost picturesque sort of manner. Their laughter, music, and conversation melded together to create a disjointed yet delightful chorus. As I roamed the streets with my guards, I took care to smile at anyone who made eye contact with me. My gestures were always met with a friendly expression. To the citizens who lived here, I was just another friendly foreigner. It was a relief to go about my stroll calmly. I’d taken extensive measures to appear to be just another kind face. I continued to stroll through the town until I entered a sea of greenery at the very edge of it. Lush plants and trees with long branches that loomed over the path like a curtain were plentiful, and I took a long, deep breath. The plant life filled the air with a sweet floral perfume that brought a smile to my face before I could stop it. I couldn’t help but admire the beauty of this place. I took a long deep breath as I stepped onto a small wooden bridge. Just beneath me was a man-made lake called Selene’s Tear. Its waters glittered and gleamed under the light of the glowing moon, and as I walked along the bridge, stared out in awe. It was quite expansive and rather impressive to look at. I had been told the lake had been constructed by the former Alpha for his first me, Asher’s mother, Selene Collins. It was a touching physical display of love but sl htly tainted by the fact that the former king had wedded another woman quickly after Selene had died. I smirked. It was unsurprising, really. Despite their outward appearance and feigned kindness, Anemond was a cruel, bitter land that lacked courtesy and 1/5 commitment. At the very least, I had to admit that it was indeed a beautiful park, extravagant, even, considering how

much Asher’s father likely spent to build it. As I studied the view, my guards remained posted at the entry of the bridge. Their gazes were steady, and their eyes were sharp as they peered around. They had been given strict orders to surveil the area in case any unexpected visitors arrived. Just as I considered the possibility of someone showing up, a black shadow appeared right before my eyes.

My guards tensed up immediately and their hands fell to the weapons at their sides. But before they could strike, I raised my hand in the air. “Relax,” I called out to them in a tone somewhere between stern and calm. “He’s a friend. We have something to discuss. Allow him to remain.” The guards beat their right fists against their chests in unison, a symbol of obedience in my country, and then retreated a few steps back. Once I was certain our conversation could continue on in privacy, I turned to the shadowy figure. “It’s been a month, Anubis,” I said in a low voice. “What happened? I began to think you’d forgotten about me.” The figure stepped out of the darkness and removed the black hood of his cloak, revealing a handsome but rugged face. “My apologies, Your Majesty,” Anubis replied with a small bow, and his dark eyes dart d around. “After I burnt down the house, I was nearly caught by a guard e Alpha King of Wegalla-” “And yet you’re here,” I pointed out, and then my lips curled into a smile. “So, you weren’t caught after all.” “Such is true, I suppose,” he remarked. When his full, lower trembled, my eyebrows knitted together. 215 “Why do you appear worried?” I asked him outright. “It is just the two of us alone. What do you have to

fear?” Anubis glanced around again and then leaned in closer. “Though I wasn’t caught, the guard saw me use the power,” he revealed. My eyebrow shot up immediately. “That’s bad news,” I remarked simply, and I fought the urge to lose my composure. “Well, at the very least, did you find the thing?” Anubis shook his head and his black, curly hair waved out around him. “No, Your Majesty,” he admitted. “But I managed to find something in the house. It was hidden deep within a drawer. I believe it’s something important.” Before I could request to see it, Anubis reached into the pocket of his ebony velvet cloak and retrieved something. I held out my hand and he carefully placed the item on my palm. It was a small moonstone pendant circled with tiny brilliantly cut diamonds that glittered even in the low light of the evening. I held the white-gold chain aloft and admired the bit of jewelry. It was simple yet beautiful. “Do you think this is related to the talisman?” I wondered as I stared at the pendant. “I don’t know,” Anubis admitted. “It’s hard to say.” I gathered the necklace back into my hand and wrapped my fingers around it tightly. ‘Interesting,” I remarked, and then I tilted my head to the side. “Very neresting.” “How have things progressed on your side, Your Majesty?” Anubis wondered. “Not well,” I admitted. “Wegalla caught a member of Dark Ab ss just a few days ago and they’re currently holding him in the dungeon of their palace.” 3.5 Anubis’ dark eyes narrowed and his expression grew deadly serious. “Do I need to deal with him, Your Majesty?” he asked quietly. I considered his offer for a mere second and then shook my head. “No,” I decided. “I don’t think the man is anyone of great importance. I’ll look into it myself. For now, I think it would be best for you to keep a low profile. We don’t need to raise any suspicions right now. We’re getting too close to let it all fall apart.”

Anubis nodded thoughtfully and his features softened ever so slightly as he crossed his arms against his chest. “What about Emmett’s wife?” “She seems to know next to nothing about what her late husband had been involved in,” I remarked. “But the talisman must be with her,” Anubis insisted. I remained silent, but I knew he was likely correct, which was exactly why Cas sandra needed to come with me. “What are we waiting for?” Anubis spoke up again, and when he took a step closer, his eyes darted around again. “I’m not waiting,” I countered. “I’m simply biding my time. The king of Wegalla seems to care very much about her. I need to find out why.” “You could always interrogate her when she goes to Yurene,” he suggested. I shook my head again. “No. It wouldn’t work.” I Though Cas sandra appeared fragile and timid, I knew she was secretly very Cgh and strong-willed, Interrogation would not work in my favor. “Don’t tell me you’ve fallen in love with her,” Anubis practically scoffed as he stared at me in disbelief. “That’s not the Kaleb I know. Since when have you been soft? You don’t even care about the well-being of your own fathe..” 4/5 Through words anfuriated me, i simply didnt answer Past I dat love anyone, did

Chapter 113 New clinic CAS SANDRA As I looked around at the two-story building that would soon be my new clinic, it took all of my effort to keep from dropping my jaw. I’d been escorted to the building by one of Asher’s councilors, and I was completely taken aback by the size of it. It was far more sp acious than the clinic back in Wild Crawler, and even more impressive. The place had tall ceilings, crea my ivory walls, and the most gorgeous white wood floors I’d ever seen. The floor plan was perfectly suited for a clinic, and it was a gorgeous building, but I was a little intimidated. “What do you think of it, Healer Cas sandra?” the councilor prompted me. “It’s very nice, councilor,” I replied politely. “Though, I wonder if it’s a little too large for a clinic.” “You can call me, Jacoby,” he said with a smile, and then he turned back to the building. “This location was hand-chosen by the Alpha King himself. The king thought it would be the best choice considering its location and condition. I could escort you to a few other places if you wanted to take a look, but I promise you, this is the best pick.” Just as I opened my mouth to speak, Finnick came barreling down the stairs. The moment we’d arrived, my son had rushed to the second floor excitedly and proclaimed he was going to check the place out. Mommy, this is so cool!” he announced as he reached my side. “I like it here!! ld see the carousel in the market’s square from the window! I was so pretty. I want to live here.” I smiled at Finnick and ran my hand through his dark hair. “I think that answers that,” I laughed, and then I turned to Jacoby. “We’ll take 1/4 this place then. Thank you for going to all of this trouble.” The councilor gave me a kind smile. “The pleasure is all mine, Healer Cas sandra.”

After we gave the building one more inspection, Jacoby departed back to Merliscire and I was preparing to follow suit when Finnick tugged on the sleeve of my white sweater.

“Mommy, could we ride the carousel?” he asked quietly, his gray eyes wide with innocence as they peered up at me. “Please? We didn’t get to last time.” As much as I didn’t want to go to the market, Finnick was right. We had planned on riding the carousel the last time we were in Anemond’s busy market, but the kidnappers in the pet store had derailed us and ruined Finnick’s first outing. I pushed my sleeve up, glanced down at my gold watch, and checked the time. I still had a good deal of time before I needed to return to the lab. Becky was going to be leaving for her short holiday this afternoon. With the help of the imposter from Dark Abyss that Asher had apprehended, we had created the cure for all of the venoms. It’d been a painstaking process that cost me more. than a few sleepless nights and countless hours in the lab, but we’d conducted enough analysis and research to make the medicines possible. The man hadn’t necessarily wanted to cooperate, but Asher had intervened enough behind the scenes to get him to comply. I wasn’t sure what methods or tactics the Alpha King had used to make it happen, but I didn’t really want to know. All that mattered was that we were prepared for any and all viper attacks that could happen in the future. Furthermore, I’d spoken with Asher about Marley coming to Anemond, and the king had agreed to let her visit. My friend was set to arrive at the palace next week nd she was bringing the forensic report from the recently deceased man in Wild Crawler with her, along with the rest of the research she’d been conducting on her own. Hopefully, her information could help us find the right path to curing the 2/4- mysterious disease and save countless lives all over Wegalla. I was thrilled by the idea of furthering my research, but I was even more excited about the idea of reuniting with my friend. Our visit wasn’t going to be long, but

With all of that in mind, the pressures of recent events were lessened quite a bit, so the least I could do was spend a little bit of extra time with my son. He’d been through so much lately that he deserved some fun. “Okay,” I agreed with a smile. “Let’s go to the carousel.” “Yay!” Finnick exclaimed. “Thank you, Mommy!” I took my son’s hand and together, we made our way down to the market. It was just as busy as ever, but I wasn’t nearly as terrified as I’d been last time. Of course, I remained vigilant and kept an eye out for any danger, but the weight had been lifted slightly from my shoulders now that there was a location for a new clinic. Getting away from the palace, even just a short distance, would do great things for us and help life feel at least a little more normal. As we walked down the streets, I considered visiting the pet store to see if the old woman was doing alright. I’d asked Asher about the investigation report that had been made that day and found out that the poor lady wasn’t doing all that well. She’d been so scared from the encounter that she couldn’t recall many details about that day. Not that I could blame her, of course. It had been a traumatizing day, to say the least. The old woman had always been so kind, even when I was a child. It made me sad to know that she wasn’t doing well. We passed by the store on our way to the carousel, and I was surprised to see hat the place was closed. A sign on the front door stated that the place was under construction. As I stared at the building, my heart ached. It was an awful sight to see. I hoped. that the woman could find peace and get her shop back in working order. 34 “Mommy?” Finnick prompted me. “Is that the pet store?” “Yes, baby,” I replied as I stared on. I half-expected Finnick to grow upset at the memory, but instead, his expression was thoughtful. “I hope all of the animals are okay,” he said quietly. “I’m sure they are,” I assured him. “They’re in good hands. It was a scary day, but everyone’s going to

be okay.” Finnick wrapped his arms around me and gave me a big hug. We stood like that for a moment, and the feeling in my -h eased a little. Finnick was such a kind and compassionate soul and I was lucky to have him. Once he pulled away, we started to walk back toward the carousel in silence. “Cas sandra!” A strange, familiar voice called out to me. I lifted my head immediately and turned to see Kaleb. The king of Yurene was flanked by a trio of his tall, muscular guards, and he flashed me a brilliant smile as he approached. The breeze made his golden brown hair sway, and his cheeks were flushed a little from the cold. “What a surprise to see you here,” Kaleb said once he reached my side. “I could say the same thing,” I said with a smile. “I haven’t seen you around the palace much these days,” the king remarked with a slight tilt of his head. “It’s a shame, I’ve missed you.” Hea spread to my cheeks and my eyes dropped to the ground. Before I could er a response, Finnick spoke up. “I know you!” he declared, and he excitedly pointed at Kaleb. “You’re the hero who saved me and my Mommy!” 3/

Chapter 114 Dating? CAS SANDRA As the heat in my cheeks furthered, Kaleb chuckled. “Yes, I suppose I am,” the king of Yurene remarked, and then he crouched down to Finnick’s level. “And you’re Finnick, am I correct?” When Finnick nodded happily, Kaleb’s smile widened. “Well, it’s a pleasure to see you again,” he said. When he rose to his feet, he turned his attention back to me. “Where are you two headed to?” “We’re going to the carousel!” Finnick announced excitedly. “The carousel?” Kaleb repeated back. “I see. That sounds quite fun. May I escort you there?” “It’s okay-” I started to say, but the king raised his hand. “Please, it would be my pleasure,” he assured me. His smile was so kind that I decided to accept his invitation, and after I nodded, the three of us made our way toward the carousel. Once we reached the square, my jaw dropped. The carousel was just as beautiful as I remembered. It was a gorgeous thing, old-fashioned but clearly well-maintenanced. I’d nif-expected to see years of wear and tear on the various painted horses, but their pint was just as bold and lovely as ever. As the jewel-toned colors of the horses danced by us, I felt as if I were a child again, and my lips curled into a delighted smile. 175 Wow, Mormy, ed, I glanced down at him, his eyes were wide and almost doll-like. It touched my heart to see my son so excited and awestruck.

I smiled down at him. “Isn’t it pretty?” Finnick nodded. “Can we ride it now?” “We have to get in line,” I said, and I gestured at the small line of people. “Let’s head over there.” “Yay!” Finnick exclaimed, and he took my hand in his and practically dragged me over to the line of people. Kaleb followed suit, and I was a little surprised to see that he looked just as cheerful as Finnick and me. The king of Yurene wasn’t exactly a serious guy but I hadn’t expected a grown man to appreciate something like a carousel. The line didn’t take too long to move, and once we reached the front, a kind older man ushered us over to a trio of painted horses. I carefully helped Finnick onto the smallest one, and once he was seated, I climbed on the one beside him. Kaleb took the horse just behind us, and a laugh rose up at the sight of the tall man on the horse. We rode with Finnick for one round, and then he insisted he wanted to go again on his own. Kaleb and I shared a laugh and agreed to wait by the gate and watch. The king and I leaned against the cold metal gate and watched the carousel go by in silence, until finally, Kaleb spoke up. “How have you been doing recently, Ca sandra?” he asked. “I know there has been quite a deal of drama lately, and you’ve been busy with your research. Are you ng well” “I am,” I said, and I offered him a kind smile. “Thank you for asking.” “Of course,” the foreign king replied, and then his expression grew serious. “I didn’t intend to ask this of you right now, but since I have you here… have you considered my request at all?” 2/5 The truth of the matter was that I had strongly considered Kaleb’s offer to come to the North. Up until a few days ago, I’d thought going to Yurene was the only possible way to find a cure to the disease, but now, with the hope that Marley could be bringing something useful, I didn’t think it was a good idea.

“I appreciate your generosity,” I said politely in the kindest tone I could manage. “But I’m afraid I have to decline. I can’t leave Anemond at the moment… and between us, I think I may have another way to figure out the root cause and cure of the disease that ails your father.” “Oh?” Kaleb asked as his eyebrow shot up. “How?” “I can’t say at the moment,” I replied. “It’s still just a theory at the moment, but if I continue down this path… I may find a way to help everyone affected.” The king remained silent, but for the briefest of moments, his navy eyes darkened and his mouth drew into a thin line. A chill ran through me, but just as quickly as his expression shifted, it returned to its calm and collected state. Had my eyes deceived me? “I understand,” Kaleb remarked thoughtfully, and he leaned further against the gate. “The idea of visiting the North isn’t the most appealing. I know everyone in Wegalla perceives Yurene to be impoverished and barbaric-” “That’s not what I meant,” I assured him. He smiled. “It’s alright, Cas sandra. I’m going to be staying here in Wegalla for another two weeks before I return to Yurene. If you end up changing your mind, you can always come to me and let me know.” “Thank you,” I replied, though I wasn’t so sure my mind would change. My life was so tied up in Anemond, in Asher… there was no way I could leave to go to a reign land, not now anyway. Before the conversation could go any further, Finnick got off of the carousel and headed toward us. As he approached, I checked my watchjain. 3:5 “I’d better start heading back to the palace,” I said, and then I turned back to Kaleb. “I’m about to open a new clinic near the palace in a few days, so if you’d like to come visit, you’re more than welcome there.”

“That sounds great,” the foreign king replied, and then he smiled. “I will see your later then, Cas sandra. Thank you for the wonderful afternoon.” He offered me a small bow and then excused himself. As he walked away, I took Finnick’s hand in mine. “Let’s go, baby,” I said. On our way back to the palace, Finnick hummed happily to himself. “Did you have a good time today?” I asked as I smiled down at him. “Oh yes,” he said, and then he tilted his head slightly. “Mommy, are you dating the hero?” “What?” I blurted out, and my eyes widened. What had given Finnick that idea? Panic shot through me as heat rose to my cheeks. “Where did you learn about dating from?” “My picture books,” he stated simply and he shrugged. “The hero always dates the pretty girl he saves. So, are you dating?” “No,” I assured him. “We’re not dating. He’s my friend, that’s all.” “Oh,” Finnick replied, and then he let out a little exhale. “That’s good. I don’t like the hero, even though he saved us and played with us today.” I froze in place. “Why not?” I wondered as my eyebrows knitted together. Finnick shrugged again. “I don’t know, Mommy, but I feel… scared when I see him. I don’t want you to date him, Mommy.” 4/5 I smirked and ran my hand through his hair. “I wouldn’t do that, baby. As I said, he’s just a friend, that’s all.” We started walking again, and a few minutes later, Finnick spoke up. “What about the Alpha King?” he wondered, and he pouted slightly. “You spend more time with the King than you do with me, Mommy.” His tone was full of jealousy, and it made me sad to hear it.

“It’s only for work, sweetie,” I said. “I’m his royal healer-” “But he kissed you, Mommy,” Finnick insisted. “I saw it! Why did he kiss you that night? Dominic said it’s something lovers do, like his mommy and daddy.” My cheeks flushed and I grew flustered. I was a little shocked to hear words. like that from Finnick’s mouth, and even more amazed to know that he was so observant. What could I say? I needed to give him an answer but didn’t want to lie to him. “It’s hard to explain,” I said slowly. “But I’ll tell you all about it someday, okay? Can you trust me?” Finnick didn’t look all that satisfied with my answer but nodded anyway. “I will protect you, Mommy,” Finnick stated bravely. “If the king ever does anything wrong to you, I’ll keep you safe.” “I know, honey,” I said, and this time, I smiled. Finn k was always my little hero. 5/5

Chapter 115 Kane’s visit CAS SANDRA “Oh, Cas sandra, that’s amarter Becky evelammed as the entered the clinic. My assistant strandly large eyes grew even wider as the shut the door and peered around the building She had just returned from her holliday and it was officially our moving day “lent #?” | remarked as I carefully set down a pile of boxes Once they were on the ground, I wipe dust off of my hands and walked over to her T’s great to I see you, Becky How were your days of “They were pressure workin feeling much be 11. Becky said with a small smile ) a small onile.” “) always feel so much the palace, but I was ch up on some rest and m Sure enough the color had returned to her cheeks and her dark eyes were no mce and neat, and longer underscored with days circles er dare red hall noticed she was wearing a light touch of makeup, Becky looked great, and I was glad to see that she was in such good spirits I y Tunderstand completely,” I said and then lowered my voice between you and me. I feel relieved to be away from the palace . Ten quietar here.” “Definitely” Becky agrees Tow will you show me amund?

(g) 2. “Of course Right this w The ally gave my escalatt a altul tour of our new The process of being Wered over wel de gra progress in setting tigrip te wen abertage of cuts – Tabies and they were dee Stand Chapter 115 Kane’s visit CAS SANDRA “Oh, Cas sandra, that’s amazing!” Becky exclaimed as she entered the clinic. My assistant’s already large eyes grew even wider as she shut the door and peered around the building. She had just returned from her holiday and it was officially our moving day. “Isn’t it?” I remarked as I carefully set down a pile of boxes. Once they were on the ground, I wiped the dust off of my hands and walked over to her. “It’s great to see you, Becky. How were your days off?” “They were great,” Becky said with a small smile. “I always feel so much pressure working in the palace, but I was able to catch up on some rest and I’m feeling much better.” Sure enough, the color had returned to her cheeks and her dark eyes were no longer underscored with dark circles. Her dark red hair was nice and neat, and I noticed she was wearing a light touch of makeup. Becky looked great, and I was glad to see that she was in such good spirits. “I understand completely,” I said, and then I lowered my voice slightly. “Between you and me… I feel relieved to be away from the palace. Its much quieter here.” “Definitely,” Becky agreed. “Now, will you show me around?” I grinned. “Of course. Right this way.” I happily gave my assistant a small tour of our new clinic. Ihough our equipment was still in the process of being moved over, we had made great progress in setting things up. There was no shortage of cots and examination tables, and they were all arranged behind thick fabric curtains ti t could be drawn for necessary privacy. Along the warm cream-colored walls were shelves and 1/5

places for storage, and there were multiple stations that would allow Becky and I to clean up and operate efficiently. It was impressive that this had all come together so quickly, and that we’d managed to get a place set up that was not only professional but comforting. All of the colors here were warm and inviting, whereas in Merliscire, everything was harsh and sterile. I wanted to make sure that my patients would feel at ease here, and I had no doubt in my mind that it was an easily reachable goal. As we walked around, I couldn’t help but feel a wave of relief. Adalyn and Margaret had been rather silent these days and hadn’t attempted anything further. I I that I was finally moving from the palace, I felt like I could breathe without No worry. When Becky and I returned to the reception area, Erika walked through the door, holding a box. “Where should I place this, Cas sandra?” she asked. “That can go to the second floor,” I replied. Erika nodded and then smiled warmly at Becky before heading up the stairs. The maid was followed by a young girl, the new maid Asher had sent named Hannah. The girl was incredibly petite, with pretty dark skin and a mass of gorgeous black curls. Her dark eyes peeked at us shyly, but she managed to give us a small smile as she passed by. She was a quiet girl, but she seemed very kind. I looked forward to getting to know her further. Just as the maids disappeared up the stairs, there was a knock on the door, and then a familiar voice. “I hope I’m not disturbing you.” In walked Kane Collins, who greeted us with a brilliant smile. Asher’s handsome tepbrother was followed by several se rvants holding elaborately wrapped gift oxes. “I’m here on behalf of my very busy brother,” Kane continued. “Who is unfortunately tied up at the moment? I do hope I’m not interruping.” 2/5 “Not at all,” I said warmly. “It’s great to see you. Come with me, we can speak in the meeting room.”

“Wonderful,” he said. I escorted him to the meeting room just down the hall, and invited him to take a seat on one of the plush white couches. As he got comfortable, I prepared some tea for us. Erika and Hannah were far too busy tidying up, so I had no problem with making it myself. Once it was ready, I set a cup down on the coffee table for Kane and then sat down on the chair opposite the couch. “Thank you for this,” Kane remarked after he took a sip of tea. “This is exactly what I needed. It’s chilly out there.” “It sure is,” I agreed. “And it’s no problem at all. Besides, it’s the least I could do after all that you’ve done for us. I haven’t had the chance to thank you for helping Erika and me last week-.” “It’s no trouble at all,” he insisted. “It was the right thing to do. I’m sorry for my mother’s actions. I hope Erika is alright.” “She’s fine,” I replied. “She recovered very quickly and her wounds are all but gone.” “Good,” Kane said, and then he glanced around the room. “Ashe wished to come here in person but he was busy today. He decided to send Marco to the primary school and have him take classes with the other kids. If you would like to do the same for Finnick, I would be glad to help you with the enrollment. The school will accept children who are at least five years old.” At first, I wanted to turn down the idea, but then I remembered Finnick had said e was lonely here in Anemond and wished to make more funds. He would be Lurning six soon, and he had no friends aside from Dominic. Of course, children in Anemond were mostly from upper fan lies. I would be worried that Finnick might feel out of place with them. 3/5 “I’ll think about it,” I said. “Thank you for offering.” Kane nodded. “Of course.” We fell into silence as we sipped at our tea and then Kane cleared his throat.

“Asher is also busy preparing for the upcoming celebration to welcome Silas next week,” he said casually. “You should be receiving an invitation soon, as all members with a title will be invited. As one of the royal healers, that includes you.” It took all of my effort to keep from widening my eyes. Silas Moses… the son of Oliver Moses. “Silas has just finished inspecting all of the warriors stationed out at the borders,” Kane continued before I could say a word. “He’s also quelled several riots. Pack members will be excited to see their hero back in Anemond.” A lump formed in my throat. That respect and duty should have belonged to my brother Ector. Kane stared at me for a moment and as his violet eyes flicked over me, I wondered if my expression was betraying my thoughts. I didn’t want to slip up, but the anger I felt toward the Moses family knew no bounds. I hated them all so much, and knowing that a celebration was being made in Silas’ honor when it should have been for my brother… it only made things worse. Still, I smiled anyway. “That sounds wonderful,” I said simply. “I look forward to seeing such a hero.” It took all of my effort to stay calm, and for a moment, I thought Kane would see ght through it, but he just smiled back. “It will be a great evening,” he remarked, and then he set his teacup down on the table and stood. “Now, I hate to leave so soon, but I have some other business to attend to.” 4/5