LOGINEveryone knew that Aria Jackson had loved Larry Spencer for years. The usually obedient Aria got tattoos for him, broke rules for him, and even moved to a foreign city for him. But when she fell into the lake and he rescued her rival instead, leaving her soaking and miserable, her heart finally shattered completely. The man who came after Larry held her protectively in his arms and suggested with a gentle laugh, "Miss Jackson, have you considered teaching your ex-husband a lesson?" She promptly filed for divorce and married Archer Duncan, the heir to the Duncan empire and the powerful CEO of Duncan Industries. That evening, their marriage certificate was posted on social media. The typically aloof Larry finally showed his desperation, begging her not to marry Archer and then turning to threaten him, "You think she loves you? She's just using the Duncan family's wealth and connections!" Archer simply tightened his arm around her waist and replied calmly, "So what? Fortunately, I have both in abundance." What no one knew was that Aria had been Archer's carefully laid plan all along. He had deeply loved this rose from the beginning—he admired her ambition and was eager to support her boldness and independence.
View MoreAlder's POV
My name is Alder Volcik, and I am the Lycan King. I am 187 years old and have held the title of king for over 150 years. Lycans are widely recognized as the most powerful species. We aim to safeguard the werewolves and uphold equilibrium among all supernatural species. We remain immortal unless our heads are severed, and our hearts are simultaneously removed. We have the ability to heal faster than werewolves, both in terms of physical wounds and speed. Additionally, a regular lycan is capable of defeating an alpha.
Indeed, we possess great power. We strive to be responsible individuals who are mindful of our actions, ensuring that we do not abuse our power to bully individuals of any species. The person who committed the act would go through a trial and, if found guilty by the council, would suffer severe penalties.
As a royal, I possess unique abilities that set me apart from other lycans. However, I prefer to keep these abilities hidden unless it becomes absolutely necessary to reveal them. However, I admit that I have utilized my abilities multiple times in my effort to find my life mate.
I had been running the kingdom on my own, eagerly awaiting the arrival of my mate. However, we Lycans faced significant challenges in locating our destined mates. Most of the Lycans I knew didn't find their soulmates until they were over 300 years old, well past the age of 18. That is why many of us choose to have a chosen mate.
However, I have no intention of doing so. I am willing to wait patiently for what is mine, even if it takes a thousand years. I am not an angel; therefore, I have indeed been in the company of female lycans. I was not seeking a relationship but instead just looking for a way to find release, and they were aware of that. I have always been sure that I would wait for my destined partner, so everything we did together was pure and intimate. As a Lycan, I experience a heightened intensity of intimacy compared to werewolves. I made a conscious effort to minimize that need as much as possible, and I took precautions to ensure that none of them became pregnant. I plan to have children only with my partner and no one else.
"Alder," Lance, my beta, called out to me. I allow my best friend, Charles, to call me by my name with my third in command. We were in my office, and he mentioned that he had plans to attend a Luna ceremony at Raven Claw Pack in Canada. I wanted to avoid participating in an event like that because I was sure that everyone would start inviting me once people found out I made time for the Raven Claw.
"What?" I asked lazily.
"You must attend this event because Luna earned her title by challenging the Alpha's fated mate." I glanced in his direction. It is hard to believe they were still engaged in such activities. I think such practice was abolished many years ago. It is possible for individuals to be paired with weak mates, which makes them vulnerable to being challenged by stronger werewolves or lycans. Interestingly, my father, who is also the former Lycan King, issued a royal decree regarding this matter. Challenges can only be initiated when the person being challenged is deemed unworthy.
"Why did that event occur?" I asked, and now he has captured my attention and piqued my curiosity.
He answered, "The fated mate was known for her promiscuity, and the challenger believed she did not deserve to become Luna."
"So, is the challenger a virgin?" I asked lazily. He glanced at me and chuckled, joining in with Charles. "If she is, then she has the right to challenge her. However, if she is not, then she is also not suitable to be Luna. The only difference between them was the number of wolves they had.
"We are aware of that, but I believe the Alpha himself also did not have affection for his destined mate. That is likely why he allowed the challenge to take place," Charles explained.
"Do you know what made me curious?" Lance inquired, his expression serious. He then added that the destined mate is the daughter of a gamma, but surprisingly, she lost to an ordinary she-wolf.
"I find that much more intriguing," I remarked, and both of them nodded in agreement. In preparation for Luna's ceremony in two weeks, I made sure to complete all my pending tasks to avoid a backlog of work upon my return. We will depart in one week. I had intended to stay there for approximately one week.
I have decided to bring a few warriors along with my beta, Lance. Because Charles didn't enjoy attending such events, I entrusted him with the responsibility while we were absent. "I will return as soon as possible, so please ensure that everything is in order by then," I told my gamma.
I have confidence in his ability to do his job. However, what concerns me is my understanding of his character. Compared to Lance, Charles is a Lycan who desires to meet his mate but also has a strong inclination for physical intimacy. I am uncertain about his reaction when his partner arrives while he is in the company of another female Lycan.
Is everyone prepared? I asked Lance for his input.
"Yes, Your Highness," he replied, causing me to roll my eyes. They both chuckled before we departed from my office. After leaving the palace, we will proceed to the hangar where the private plane of the palace is located. Afterward, we will move to Canada, with an estimated flight duration of approximately 4 hours. The Hill Crest Pack has a private hangar in the region, which is collectively owned by all the packs. The palace provides financial assistance for its maintenance and operations. We decided to go to Raven Claw Pack from Hill Crest for the convenience of all pack members, especially the Alpha.
As our convoy ventured into the pack's territory, I couldn't help but be captivated by the sheer beauty of their surroundings. From the moment we crossed their border, it was evident that the place had been well-maintained. The patrol guards on duty stopped us, but they granted us permission to enter once they discovered our identities. I don't have any objections to being thwarted at every border because I fully respect the security procedures in place and harbor no ill feelings toward them. I would feel less anxious if I could ensure each package was secure and in good condition.
We traveled along the concrete road, which had hedges on either side and a central divider separating the two lanes of traffic. The Raven Claw Pack stands out as one of the most affluent packs in the region, primarily due to the influence of its former Alpha, John. I had the pleasure of meeting him and found him incredibly kind, just like his Luna. I had high expectations for their son to become an outstanding new Alpha, but now I am disappointed with the current Alpha.
However, due to the incident with the challenge, I wonder if I will be able to develop a liking for the new one. Both Charles and Lance expressed their dislike for him to me. A true mate would never allow their friends to be challenged so quickly, especially if they hold a leadership position like an alpha. It confirmed Charles' belief that the new alpha strongly disliked his mate.
Our SUV came to a halt in front of a massive warehouse, which, in my estimation, appeared to be a five-story structure. Standing on the landing porch were the former alpha and Luna, along with the others. I think the two individuals between them were the new ones. I observed the new Luna closely and noticed that she blushed. Did she assume that I was interested in her simply because I glanced in her direction?
They were aware of my identity, and I made a deliberate effort to inform them. I emit a significant amount of aura, causing others to show deference towards me, particularly those two individuals who are especially inclined to do so. I allowed Lance to greet them, as I preferred not to involve myself with the two new leaders. I noticed that the new Luna gave me intimate looks, making me uncomfortable.
"Your Highness," the former Alpha John greeted me kindly. I nodded at him while maintaining a serious expression. I want to inform him that I was not pleased with what occurred regarding the pack. Annie, his Luna, stood beside him and greeted me with a respectful smile before taking John's hand. I smiled back at her because she always remained sweet to her partner. I greatly admire women who possess the qualities of loyalty and the ability to support and respect their partners.
"John, where will we settle during our stay?" I was supposed to ask the new alpha, but as I mentioned earlier, I didn't like him at all. John and Annie exchanged glances, then responded to me after considering their son.
"The villa is prepared and awaiting your arrival with your convoy. We want to invite you to join us for a meal before we escort you to the villa for some rest. If it is acceptable to you, Your Highness,"
"I would love to have a meal with you and Luna Annie. You reminded me of my parents, who were destined soulmates and remained together until their final moments."
"It is a pleasure, Your Highness. If that's the case, please follow us to the dining hall," he replied. I glanced at Lance, who in turn signaled our warriors to follow. Both new leaders were rendered speechless, as they did not attempt to engage in conversation with me. What type of leaders are they?
I couldn't help but be astounded by the interior's opulence as we entered the pack house. I briefly believed that I had entered the opulent mansion of a prosperous entrepreneur. I refrained from showering them with compliments about their wealth, as I didn't want to offend John. I am aware of the immense effort he puts into networking and engaging with individuals, particularly humans, in order to establish business connections with them.
'Your Highness, please take a look at the new alpha. He seems upset because you have been neglecting him and his Luna.' Lance said through our link.
'I don't care,' I replied. I heard him chuckle, but I chose to ignore it. We were all seated, waiting for the omegas to finish filling the table with food.
"Your Highness," John said, catching my attention. "This is my son, Vlad, the new Alpha of the Raven Claw Pack, and his Luna, Monique," he proudly introduced. I glanced at him and then shifted my gaze toward the two individuals he referred to.
"John, I have agreed to be present here because I have discovered that she is not the true Luna. I would like to thoroughly examine the fairness of the challenge in order to determine its validity." I told him. The young alpha and his Luna both had their heads down. I noticed a look of concern on John and Annie's faces, which confirmed my suspicion that something was happening.
"I didn't want to spoil the feast you prepared for us. I highly appreciate the dedication and effort of those who work in the kitchen of the pack house. It is important to me that everyone can fulfill their responsibilities without any concerns." I suggested, pausing momentarily, "Would it be possible for us to have a meal first and then discuss my visit tomorrow morning?"
"Of course, Your Highness." Both John and Annie responded, and we proceeded with our meal. I observed Vlad and Monique exchanging glances, and a smirk crossed my face as I realized that something had gone awry.
The meal was delicious, and we left the dining hall feeling satisfied. Lance would be content staying in the pack house by himself, surrounded by food. Since it would only take 10 minutes to drive from the pack house to the villa, I decided to walk there instead. In addition, it served as a form of exercise for me, allowing me to observe my surroundings simultaneously. We were accompanied by three warriors, as I chose to avoid having the new alpha join us. Additionally, I didn't want to inconvenience John and Annie, as I had a suspicion that they were the ones who had made themselves occupied during our visit.
"The villa is right over there, Your Highness," one of the warriors informed me, to which I nodded in acknowledgment. As the wind blew, a delightful aroma wafted through the air, captivating my senses like never before. I enjoy the flavors of honey and vanilla. The experience was incredibly intoxicating, and my Lycan was filled with excitement, causing it to howl in my mind. I glanced around, attempting to locate the source of the scent.
"Your Highness, is there a problem?" Lance asked. He might have observed my unease.
"Did you catch a whiff of that scent? I posed a question, and all eyes turned towards me, including those of the Raven Claw warriors.
"What is that scent? I don't smell anything unusual," Lance replied as my eyes scanned the surroundings.
"Your Highness," the warrior who informed us about the villa being close said, "There was no unusual scent other than Clover." I stared at him intently.
"The leaves?" I asked.
"No, Clover, our supposed to be Luna," he answered, his head lowered.
"Do you mean Luna, who was defeated?" I asked to confirm and ensure accuracy.
"Yes, Your Highness," he replied, and I nodded in understanding.
"Let's go," I said, and we walked. I was surprised to find her here. Why did you choose to come here out of all the possible places?
“I’m too much? Fine. I’ll be too much,” Shawn snapped. “This is MY welcome party. I don’t want to see the Luther family here. Get out. Walk out on your own, or I’ll have security drag you out.”“The Xanders don’t need your so-called partnership anyway!”He didn’t spare them a shred of dignity. Michael sipped his drink slowly on the sidelines, watching with a faintly amused expression as his brother let loose.When it looked like things might really blow up, Michael finally stepped forward. “Shawn, don’t get too worked up.”Shawn’s temper flared hotter. And who could blame him? The Luthers had the audacity to think he was the type who could be matched with Wendy. The sheer insult of it made his blood boil.He sneered at Michael. “Oh, so now you step in to play the good guy? Where were you while I was tearing into them? Didn’t you hear these lunatics trying to dump their radioactive waste on me? You’re calm because they didn’t try to stick Wendy on you!”His voice cut like ice. “Th
“This isn’t good faith,” Michael said coolly, the smile wiped clean from his face. “This is you deliberately trying to dump trouble on our family.” His words dripped with scorn.For a split second, Patrick felt like he was right back in that room being mocked by the entire Duncan family.No, he told himself. He was overthinking it. His daughter was perfect. There was no way the Xanders would reject her.Even if Michael turned up his nose, what about Shawn?“Michael, you don’t need to say such harsh things. I’m not here to arrange a match for you, I’m here for Shawn. If anyone has the right to refuse, it should be him—not you stepping in and making decisions on his behalf.”He straightened, pressing on. “Shawn’s been abroad for years. His personality is open, free-spirited—just like my daughter Wendy. They’re a perfect match. Bring him here. He’ll like her, I’m certain of it.”Patrick’s tone all but implied that Michael wasn’t worthy to speak on his brother’s behalf.Micheal gave
Patrick really went ahead and said it out loud.It wasn’t that the Xanders had been careless. They simply didn’t know the full story. Their ties with the Luthers weren’t nearly as close as the Luthers liked to pretend, and certainly not close enough for Marianne to be calling them with complaints about the Luther family’s antics. If the Xanders had known how many times the Luthers had harassed the Duncans with marriage proposals—showing up at their door, calling nonstop—they wouldn’t have entertained Patrick and Lila for even a moment tonight.The moment the words left Patrick’s mouth, Shawn’s grandfather felt the blood drain from his head. Surely he had misheard. Surely no one could be this shameless, this absurd.“What did you just say?” he asked slowly. “I must not have heard clearly.”It wasn’t a question. It was a warning. Think twice before you repeat yourself.Unfortunately, Patrick didn’t catch the hint. He leaned closer, eager to clarify.“I said your grandson has reache
Shawn’s looks weren’t just handsome—they were striking. Rugged and masculine, yet with a streak of wildness that refused to be tamed. With his close-cropped haircut, that rebellious edge only stood out more.Anyone who saw him would immediately think: full of fire and youth.Patrick and Lila exchanged a quick glance. Both were clearly impressed.While Patrick kept chatting politely with Shawn’s grandfather, Lila tugged Wendy aside and whispered, “That was Shawn just now. What do you think?”“You saw him yourself. He’s incredibly good-looking, tall, long-legged, easygoing. And with the Xander family name behind him, you’d never have to worry about society rules and etiquette. Shawn doesn’t care about that. You’d still get to live freely, without him trying to hold you back.”Wendy was still a little dazed, struggling to catch up with everything.When her parents first introduced her, she had only managed a fleeting glance at Shawn. But even that single look left her heart flutte
A madman… this was a madman!Larry felt like he had just clawed his way out of hell itself. His body was drenched in sweat, his strength completely gone. Yet burned into his eyes was the sight of Shawn, crimson shirt clinging to his frame like the garb of the devil.“Shawn. I’m giving you three se
Larry’s head was spinning.Why had Shawn come back? Why was he still remembering Aria after all these years? Why was he really here, standing in this room, ready to fight for her?“You… why did you come back!” Larry’s voice cracked with panic.He still remembered the Shawn from years ago. Back th
Michael really didn’t have a choice.If Shawn went off the rails and did something reckless, who else was going to clean up after him?Shawn opened his mouth to argue, but Michael cut him off. “Do you think Aria would be impressed with a guy who’s always breaking the law?”Shawn fell silent. “…Fi
“Wendy, you need to behave yourself tonight.” Patrick spoke with deliberate patience. “Do you remember what I told you about Shawn Xander? He’s the younger son of the Xander family. He’s been abroad for years, outgoing by nature, and he’d be a good match for you. Don’t keep saying you don’t like him
Welcome to GoodNovel world of fiction. If you like this novel, or you are an idealist hoping to explore a perfect world, and also want to become an original novel author online to increase income, you can join our family to read or create various types of books, such as romance novel, epic reading, werewolf novel, fantasy novel, history novel and so on. If you are a reader, high quality novels can be selected here. If you are an author, you can obtain more inspiration from others to create more brilliant works, what's more, your works on our platform will catch more attention and win more admiration from readers.
reviewsMore