The Princess and Her Werebear

As the caravan that holds Eliana and her handmaid pulls away from the castle that she has known her entire life, she finally allows the tears to fall. As she is securely hidden within the wooden transportation, she gives herself the freedom to release her anguish and fear. Her tears are warm against her skin and she welcomes them willingly. Her father is the only family Eliana has left. She barely remembers her mother. There are only a few memories still clear in her mind."What would she say, if she were alive and heard about this arranged marriage?" Eliana wonders to herself, biting the bottom of her lip to hide any whimpers that try to slip through. "I am supposed to have a say in my future husband, but my father has gone behind my back. I wonder if she would be furious. Not that it would change my circumstances.""My Lady," Selma begins, quietly at first. "It would not be sensible to dwell on what has happened in the past, or what you are leaving behind. You would be wise to look

The forest is more active today. Jasper looks up through the holes in the treetops and he sees the birds flying high, moving North."It is odd that they are all leaving their nests this early in the day. I have never seen so many at one time," he thinks to himself."Son," Conrad Darcy begins.Jasper fights the urge to roll his eyes. He clenches his teeth and prepares for what his father will say. "I know your mother spoke to you already. There is no debate on the matter. You will go to Viptan and you will find your mate there. You must partner with another Xefol. There is no other way."Jasper glances over at his burly father who shoulders a large deer carcass that they have just taken down. It will be added into their stew simmering at the cottage."Papa, is it so important that I find a mate right now, and that they are from our clan?""Yes. There is too many mixed breeding. You need to keep our bloodline pure.""I was under the impression that your mate is already predete

Forcing her vision to clear, Eliana looks back up at Beatrice, her eyes wide.The Xefol has her head turned slightly down, watching the Princess. "Are you alright?""Uh," Eliana clears her throat, trying to halt the sweat beading at her temple. "Is it alright if I stay just for the night? I will leave at daybreak."Beatrice presses her lips together, but Eliana easily sees the smile forming. "Yes, of course, honey."Eliana allows her shoulders to relax, the weight she is carrying disappearing. Her mind clears, and she refuses to look back outside."Jasper, heat up some water for her." Beatrice orders cocking her brow at who Eliana assumes is their son.His jaw flexes and he watches Eliana closely. His dense gaze scourers her entire face."What is he looking at," she wonders. Heat begins to build in her neck and ears, easing the pain slightly from her injuries."Why is she allowed to stay? She broke into our house and took my bed," Jasper argues roughly. His hair places a shadow

"Olisnia, please, I beg of you, do not go."She stares up into the pale, icy blue gaze of the man. "Jacniel, I must go. This is what I am meant to do. I have the same dream every night. It is my destiny to find the descendant of the Kexon. Whoever this individual is, they must be made aware of their heritage and to accept the power they hold. The ability to shift may have been forgotten to them, but they have the ability to reunite this world once more.""But the power of the werecat has been lost for a generation. This journey is too dangerous, please do not risk yourself for the humans." His long, platinum hair sways in the Ocean breeze. He grasps Olisnia's arm gently.Her heart races and she tries to hide the blush building in her cheeks. "I am sorry, but I will not forgive myself if I do not try to make this trek. It truly may end horribly, but this is the path I must follow.""Please, bring your concerns up to the Council first. Hear what they have to say. Let them advise you.

It has been a week since the group has left the small cottage and Eliana's ankle is only getting worse. She can barely walk on it now."Are you okay," Jasper questions softly as they pack up their camp.Eliana tries to ignore the heat emanating from his body. She swallows and glances up at him. "Yes, I am fine."His brow twitches with confusion, but he leans back. "Allow me to carry your bag. Your ankle cannot hold much longer."Pride fills her chest. "I am able to handle it. Your shoulder must be in pain as well.""It is healing up now," he sighs before pivoting away."Uh, ma'am," Eliana moves toward Beatrice, holding at bay her pain."Oh dear, I told you to call me mama. I am so used to Jasper calling me that," Beatrice chuckles as she picks up her own bag."Oh, yes, I am sorry. When do you suppose we will arrive at Viptan?""Oh honey, very soon. Not even another day's journey.""Alright—""What is that," Jasper crouches as a rumble echoes against the trees.Conrad steps