“Say you're mine, Raven,” Declan pushed his tongue against my earlobe. I struggled to stiffle the moan fighting it's way to my lips. It was bad enough I was a squirming mess, I couldn't let him win. “And if I don't?” I struggled to keep my voice steady. “Then I will bend you over and each time you moan, I will inscribe a letter of my name on your neck, where everyone can see it, wherever you run to, my lovely Raven,” the husky whisper sent shivers down my spine. I didn't put it past the psychopath to do exactly as he said. ******* Raven was a trained assassin and pride of the BloodFrang Tribe, until she was tasked with bringing the head of Alpha Declan of the IronClaw Pack. Right when she's about to drive a knife through his heart, she discovers he is her mate and her mission instantly fails. To makes things worse, Declan captures her and her fiance goes ahead to marry someone else. It doesn't take long for her to realise she had been a pawn in their games and now, she just wants to see them burn.
View More/-RAVEN-/
“Mate!”
The words escaped my mouth before I realized what I'd said. My wolf growled within me, excited, as the minty scent intoxicated me.
No! No! No!
This can't be real. There had to be a mix-up. The moon goddess couldn't possibly do this to me. It has to be a trick!
Here I was, on top of my father's rival, hands clutched around a silver blade, raised in the air to gut him in the glory of our pack, the Bloodfang Tribe…
But somehow he was my mate?
My hands trembled as those silver eyes fluttered open.
I had barely recovered from the shock when he flipped me over, trapping me underneath him. A dark smirk played on his lips, “Hello, little mate.”
My body tensed at the electrifying contact. I could easily have performed a thousand counter moves to get back on top but my brain and my body betrayed me.
He knocked the knife off my hands, pinning my hands above my head.
“Lady Ariella of HallowClave or perhaps you prefer Raven Ampleton, Alpha princess of the Bloodfang Tribe,” the silky tone drawled tauntingly. “It's an honour to have you attend my small birthday celebration.”
On hearing my name roll off his lips, my struggles stiffened as my lashes fluttered open and close in shock. My mouth went slightly agape and I became all too aware of the erratic beating of my heart.
I gulped hard, struggling to reconcile the searing sensation of his body against mine with the harsh reality that I was utterly screwed.
This was certainly not how I envisioned this moment. He was supposed to be begging for his life as I slowly slipped my blade into the space between his shoulder blades.
When my father entrusted me with this mission, it took me two weeks to come up with a suitable strategic plan to take off his head without attracting the attention of his pack members.
The Ironclaw clan and the Bloodfang Tribe had been enemies for as long as I could remember. They would go to any length to destroy each other and seize control.
This was not my first mission. I was known far and wide for bringing Alphas to their knees. I was my father's war machine. So when he entrusted this task to me, which had been physically impossible to accomplish by his finest warriors, I took it with honour and confidence because I was sure it would be a certain victory.
“Where the strength of mighty men fail, that is where yours begins, my beautiful Raven,” my father often said.
Now, all the troubles I went through to get this plan to work was going to be in vain. Earlier today, after arriving at the IronClaw pack, I stood aside, carefully scrutinizing the guests to pick my prey. That was when I saw her. Dashing, beautiful and fragile. She only had one guard with her which made my work very easy.
Her invitation was right there in her hands and the fake one I designed in mine. I bided my time, waiting for her to reach the spot where I needed her before running out of the shadows and bumping into her.
“I'm so sorry,” I apologized as our things hit the ground. Her guard stepped in to pick it up, shooting me a glare and I seized the opportunity to take her invitation.
As I approached the guards, I watched them search the guests thoroughly, but my blade was carefully hidden by the leather straps underneath my dress, the drugs in my bra and the extras in my boot, so there was no way I was going to get caught unless I stripped.
On getting in, my eyes scanned the room for my target. As much of a distraction as it was, my eyes took in the exquisite banquet. Although it was a private celebration, it was simply magnificent. The beast sure had taste.
From the decorations to the food to the very people present. They were powerful names in the wolf world, people who were rarely seen in public and yet, the man had them up and running for a mere birthday.
Since this was going to be his last birthday, he might as well enjoy himself. It's a privilege to remain young forever.
I spotted him talking to some Alphas.
I picked one of the champagne glasses passing around and skillfully took out the wrap hidden in my bra. I took a sip of the drink and emptied the wrap in.
I picked up another glass and took long sexy strides to him.
“Alpha Declan?” I stopped in front of him with a smile. Those silver eyes squinted at me. Dammit, the bastard was even more beautiful up close. I couldn't say it was surprising, even if he had me stunned for some seconds. The devil's spawns were always the prettiest.
Shame those gorgeous eyes won't be open for long, but just maybe, I could spare that beautiful face and slit his throat instead.
“Lady Ariella of HallowClave representing Princess Thalia,” I introduced.
His eyes lit in recognition on hearing Princess Thalia.
“Happy birthday,” I offered him the drugged glass. “I'm sorry the princess couldn't make it. Urgent business matters.”
“I see.”
“Cheers to long life and prosperity,” I raised my glass and he clanged his against mine. I watched him drink as I did mine.
Everything was going so well and we chatted away. It was punctuated by countless women stealing his attention, shamelessly throwing themselves at him. I rolled my eyes mentally. The rude jerk didn't even bother to tell them off, instead, he ignored me and went along with their flirting. That was a common thing with gorgeous men, they could never keep their sights on one woman. Stupid womanizers!
I had to do something before one of them took him away so I openly flirted with him as the drugs took control and managed to monopolize his attention. The other women shot glares at me and stormed off. I eventually lured him away from the crowd, with the help of the aphrodisiacs, of course.
He took me to his room and hit the bed like a drunk. I got on him, as his eyes slowly closed. The aphrodisiacs were taking full effect, and I slowly took out my blade while dry-humping him to keep him distracted. I had him where I wanted and all I had to do was slit his throat.
And I almost did, had the moon goddess not played such an expensive prank.
My heart pounded heavily against my chest as his eyes scrutinized me carefully.
“This is the part where I get my birthday gift, isn't it, feisty?” He slurred, his jet-black curly hair falling over his face.
I had never gotten a proper look at him before. It has always been from a distance. Now, I knew that distance was safe.
Here, underneath him, was dangerous. It was evoking feelings I never thought I would experience. The intense heat building up within me was almost diabolical. I could barely take two breaths without feeling the intense flame build in within my body.
“W-What g-gift?” I stuttered, expelling an alarming amount of breath.
Another sign that I was seriously fucked. Raven Ampleton never stuttered. My words were just as strong as my presence. But now here I was, uncertain, and caught underneath a man. A quick blade would be mercy.
“You, sweetheart, what do you think?” He drawled, inching closer to my face.
He was still drugged, coupled with the mate bond, I was screwed. I tried to break free but he pinned me down. His fingers cursed my skin as he ran his hands along my side searching for a hidden weapon.
I groaned softly as he moved lower. My cheeks flushed as I realized it sounded more like a moan. He smirked at me, “Someone is getting too excited."
There was a knife hidden behind my left boot. I needed a distraction to stop him from discovering it so I slapped him. “I don't like being touched like that."
He smirked. “I'd argue you like it, Princess. Your mouth says one thing and your body says another.
“Get off me." I sneered angrily as I struggled to shake him off. I reached for my boot but there was nothing.
His lips curled into a small smile, “Tell me, little princess, are you looking for this knife?”
My eyes widened in disbelief. How did he get that?
He held me down and pressed the knife against my neck. His eyes struggled to focus on mine as he tried to shake off the effect of the drugs. “You're one of the most dangerous women alive. I'm sure if I let you know, you won't hesitate to take my head off my neck, and frankly, I like my head where it is."
The spot where he rested the knife began to burn as if his body heat had seeped through the hilt to my neck. I needed him off me and fast before I lost whatever was left of my sanity.
“Awwwn… Don't tell me you're scared of a little girl." I said, trying to play on his pride. Men usually make mistakes when their pride is on the line.
He eyed me, the intensity of his gaze making my stomach twist into a tight knot. I didn't like how I was feeling and the worst part was I couldn't shut it off. It was messing up everything for me.
Declan's eyes sparkled with amusement as he gazed at me. "You're quite the firecracker, aren't you?" He teased, his voice low and husky. His voice made me feel intense heat.
My face burned with anger. "Get off me, you arrogant pig."
Declan chuckled, his breath whispering against my ear. "Not yet, sweetheart. Guards!"
The door burst open, and two burly men dragged me away and dumped me in a damp, dark cell. The door clanged shut as they left. I couldn't believe what was happening. One minute, I was close to killing my target, securing my cred as an elite assassin, and the next, I was locked up like a common criminal. What have you done, Raven?!
My eyes adjusted to the darkness, and I smiled grimly. It was going to take more than that to get Raven Ampleton. Time to get to work.
I retrieved the brooch hidden in my boot and began to work on the cell door's lock. The mechanism clicked open, and I slipped out into the empty corridor.
As I turned a corner, my body stiffened as I saw Declan leaning against the wall, arms crossed, waiting.
"Escape artist, huh?" He said, his eyes glinting with amusement. "I expected as much. You really are a feisty one."
Without thinking, I snarled and charged at him. Declan laughed, but his movements were slow, still affected by the drug.
We fought intensely but I had the upper hand. I successfully landed several blows, sending Declan stumbling back. I wanted to make him pay for humiliating me and breaking his nose felt like the way to go about it.
Just as I thought I had the advantage, Declan's lips crashed into mine. The sudden kiss stunned me like a taser to my tits, and Declan seized the opportunity to disarm me. I should have known he would fight dirty, but how could I have guessed he was crazy enough to kiss me without warning?
He pinned me against the wall, his body pressing mine. I could feel the pressure in his pants and I cursed because I liked it. "You're quite the opponent, Raven," he whispered, his breath hot against my ear.
I tried to knee him, but he was prepared. I pulled out my second hidden blade with lightning speed but he was prepared. He disarmed me, his fingers wrapping around my wrist like a vice.
I struggled, but Declan's grip was unyielding. He dragged me back to the cell, tossing me inside. I'd never felt so humiliated in my life. I remembered everything my adopted father, Timultin Ampleton, taught me, but my body refused to be useful.
As the door slammed shut, I screamed, "Let me out, you brute! You can't keep me here!"
Declan's voice echoed from outside, "Oh, but I can, sweetheart. And I will." There was a brief pause. “Make sure you get yourself some beauty sleep. We don't want you having wrinkles now, do we?"
The sound of his laughter faded, leaving me seething with rage and frustration.
I seethed as Declan's guards dragged me away, throwing me into a damp, dark cell. The door clanged shut behind me, and I heard the satisfying click of the lock.
This wasn't over.
/-Raven-/We lay upside down facing each other with the sheets sprawled over our bodies. Our bodies were covered in sweat and we were panting heavily.“No one said our wedding night was going to be so long,” I muttered. I could barely feel my legs but my core was burning from six rounds of lovemaking. Declan smirked at me, “Our honeymoon would be even longer.” “Where are we going?” I asked him. “Anywhere of your choice,” he said and I shrugged. “I don't know, we could tour. Or just stay here…”“Don't even suggest that,” he cut me short. “Those elders always have one problem or the other when they set eyes on me. Unless you want your husband to be working during his honeymoon, I suggest you cancel all plans of staying here.” I chuckled. “You are so serious about avoiding work.” “Because I want to spend time with my wife. That is perfectly logical. Anyone can understand that,” he said and I laughed. “Of course. Like I don't have duties as Luna.” He frowned, “Cha we put this whol
/-Francesca-/I admit it. It was pointless. Fighting for someone who didn't clearly want me. But the truth was that it didn't really matter what Declan wanted; I was giving up for Raven's sake. Right from the moment she called me sister on the roof, I couldn't bring myself to hurt her in any way. That was why I was humbly accepting defeat. It was her big day and whether I liked it or not, I was going to be happy for her.The IronClaw Courtyard had never looked more radiant.White blossoms bloomed from enchanted vines that shone under the moonlight. A carpet of silver petals led the way down the aisle, which glowed faintly as if the moon itself had kissed every inch. The air was thick with magic, anticipation, and, despite myself, love.I stood just beyond the arched entryway, my hands clasped in front of me, fingers trembling only slightly.The pack had gathered in full. Alphas from allied clans, betas in full ceremonial garb, omegas glowing with awe. Everyone had come to witness
/-Raven-/“You smell nice…” Declan muttered, hugging me from behind out of nowhere. I was in the dressing room at the . designer's shop, trying out my wedding dress. “You're not supposed to be here,” I whispered. “Who let you in?” He chucked mischievously. “I don't need permission to see my woman whenever I feel like.” “Don't tell me you came here, all the way from the palace…”“Because I missed you? Fuck yes,” he interrupted. I couldn't believe my ears, yet as much as I wanted to scold him, I found myself smiling like a fool.“You're an Alpha, don't you have duties to perform?” I asked him. He took a step closer and I backed away. Another step and moved back. His lips curled into a mischievous smile. “You know if you keep moving back, you're going to trap yourself between me and the wall.” That brief second when I glanced to see if I was that close to the wall, he pin me to the wall and caged me in a chokehold.“Oops,” he smirked. “I got you.” I didn't even know how to react a
Two Weeks Later/-Francesca-/They were so happy. Raven and Declan. After everything they've been through, it was only right for them to celebrate, right? Have some rest and finally live the good life they deserved. IronClaw deserved a break. That was the thought of many wolves, not mine. I assumed you against someone as powerful as Amelia would have been enough to severe whatever ties Raven had with Declan. I hid for so long. Playing the coward. Allowing everyone to have their shots and when the chances were high, I walked in their skin, hoping to complete the mission and finally get the man I deserve. Yet every single time. Every. Single. Time. That little redhead found a way to beat me at my own game. I struck a deal with Azaiah to get her out, it failed, I set her up, it failed, I walked in her skin but it took only minutes for him to recognize me. All the while I played sweet little Francesca, pretending my elf blood was useless and magic almost non-existent, hoping I cou
/-Raven-/The air smelled fresher than it had ever been. Being back to IronClaw felt like a dream. With Diane and Amelia gone, things were beginning to fall into place. The Elders regained themselves and the darkness looming over the pack was finally gone. Azaiah couldn't come back with us. He insisted on taking back the bodies of the men he lost in battle back to the mountains. I offered to help but he declined. He insisted I take Declan home and here we were. Francesca and Othelia were waiting eagerly for us and beside them was my very old friend. “Greetings, Alpha!” They all bowed and Declan merely nodded. I don't know the level of damage Diane did to him but I hoped with her death, the curse she put on him would also disappear. The way his body felt cold against mine was making me skeptical. The guards immediately rushed to help him off me. “Tim!” I exclaimed, hugging him before I even realized it. Francesca frowned beside me and I understood her jealousy. She expected I wou
/-Raven-/I didn’t breathe.Couldn’t.Declan’s body jerked unnaturally, his head tilting like a marionette on frayed strings. His mouth opened, but the sound that spilled out wasn’t his voice.It was mine.“I should’ve killed her when I had the chance.”My own words. A whisper I’d spat to myself as I held Ava's corpse in my arms. How the hell did she…?“No…” I stepped back, heart thudding so loud it felt like it echoed in the cavern.Azaiah's joints twisted, bones popping, contorting in ways no living body should. His eyes were a soulless abyss. Whatever spark once made him Azaiah had been stripped clean, replaced with something cold. Controlled.“Do you like it?” Diane cooed, her voice sweet and venom-laced. “It’s not possession. That’s so... temporary. I rethreaded them. Blood, bone, and memory.”She cocked her head, watching me with childish delight.“You’re lying,” I snapped, more to myself than to her. “Declan’s still in there. Azaiah too. I’ll get them back.”“You think love can
/-Raven-/My heart stopped. I stared down at Diane, no, whatever the hell she’d become, as she walked calmly through the burning remnants of the forest, her voice echoing in my head like a curse.She wasn’t just mimicking Azaiah.She was him now.“We need help in here, Raven…”The exact same voice. Same words. Same rhythm. Except this time, her lips curled into a grin as she said it aloud, like she knew I was listening.As expected of a witch…But this was something darker than anything I’d ever felt. Something deadly. I wasn't even sure this was just Diane anymore. I hovered higher into the clouds, hiding behind a veil of smoke and fog, praying she couldn’t sense me. My heart hammered in my chest.I’d seen death. I'd caused death. But this… this was beyond it. She had devoured them. The silence from the mind-link wasn’t a glitch or mental interference.It was because everyone was dead.And now she wore their voices like masks.“Come on, Raven,” she called out, twirling once slowly
/-Raven-/I shifted into dragon form and flew as far away as I could. As much as I wanted revenge, I couldn't jeopardize the living for the dead. If my presence was going to secure their victory then I would take pride in that and let go of my anger.For Declan. I don't know how long or how far I flew but i was at a distance I couldn't intervene quickly even if I wanted to. “Azaiah, what's your status?” I asked through the mind link. “She's down. So is half of our men. I hate to admit it but Declan is helping a lot. Are you coming in?” He asked.“Unfortunately, I can't. I need to take care of Amelia's soldiers but until then I can't come in,” I said. “But make sure she is dead. Take off her head, that is the best way to kill a witch and set her ablaze. We can't risk her suddenly resurrecting.” “That was the same thing Amelia said. Don't worry, Raven, do what you have to do, we have it all under control,” he assured me. Relief washed through me. This was definitely a good thing.
/-Raven-/On getting outside, I met Amelia. Unlike before, she had gotten here earlier than I expected.“Let's get this over with. I have more important things to deal with,” she said. “If the more important thing you're talking about is Diane, then I think we should take her down first instead of wasting our energy on each other,” I told her. “Why should I…” she cast me a condescending look. “...collaborate with you to do anything?” “Because you can't take her for me on your own,” I said plainly. “If we work together, we might actually have a chance to defeat her then we can face each other.” “Really? You must be bold to think that I would actually need help from you!” She huffed and I rolled my eyes. “I don't have time for your boost your little ego. When I'm done taking Diane, you can come fight me,” I said, shifting into dragon form. “Like I would wait for you to do that!” She muttered and leapt into the air, too. A smirk played on my lips. One down, one more person to go.
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