IronwolfI was utterly exhausted. The past month had been relentless, journeying across the continent, and addressing the myriad concerns and troubles plaguing my empire.“Endless conflicts and issues… I’m starting to grow weary of it all,” I muttered to myself, sinking into my seat as we made camp for the night. The day's travel had been long, and darkness encroached upon us.As I sat, thoughts turned to the recent proposition of alliance from a new pack, seeking to join forces with the Ironflame. Yet, complications abounded. Rebellions and strife continued to grip our vassal packs, much of it stemming from the aftermath of Alpha Eirik's demise.“Oh, my old friend Eirik… What curse you left upon me since the day you departed…”I deeply sighed, closing my eyes briefly. Despite the satisfaction of witnessing the growth of my empire, a profound sense of weariness and solitude weighed heavily upon me. With each expansion, the burden of leadership grew, straining my spirit. My duties cons
AriAs I watched everyone bustling about, it was clear that anticipation filled the air. Ulric’s family had received an invitation to the capital, marking the imminent return of the Ironwolf after a prolonged absence traveling across the continent. In just three days, the much-awaited event would unfold, stirring excitement throughout Skagi. I, too, eagerly awaited the chance to return to the capital, for it had been far too long since I last saw my pack, and I was certain they were as eager to see me as I was to see them."Ari, make sure to double-check your things before leaving. We’ll be at the capital for a while," Lady Aleria reminded me, her voice tinged with a sense of urgency.I nodded in acknowledgment. As part of the Alpha family, there were numerous responsibilities to tend to, especially in preparation for the Ironwolf's return. And as Lady in Waiting, accompanying Lady Aleria was a given. Moreover, after saving Anika and earning favor from the Ironwolf himself, I had gain
Ari “Oh look who’s here. The slave of the year.”Jackie hid me on her back, trying to shield me from any confrontation because I wasn't feeling good. We ignored the insult and hurried to the other side of the hallway, but Seraphina wouldn't let us escape. He grabbed my weakened arms, and Jackie, getting furious, pulled me away. Still, Seraphina persisted, refusing to let go. I couldn't bear it anymore and pushed him away, finally losing control and fighting back.“What the hell is your problem, Seraphina?! Why do you always seek violence and mockery? Aren’t you tired of living this way?!” I snapped at her.Seraphina scoffed and stepped closer, his face contorted with arrogance. “Violence? I just wanted to say hi, but you chose to be rude and ignored me. Respect is given to those who are worthy of it. The whole Ironflame knew who I was, and they always offered respect and humility in my presence. So who do you think you are to treat me like nothing, you half-rank!”I glared at Seraphi
AriThe day everyone was waiting for finally arrived. After the successful campaign of the Ironwolf, it's time for him to go home."It is time," Ulric announced, leading the way up to the stage. Lady Aleria walked behind him, and I followed close behind. The whole Ironflame was in festivity and celebration. Everyone lined up outside, eagerly awaiting the Ironwolf's entourage. The streets and every corner of the Ironflame were filled with joy. It had been months since they last saw the Ironwolf and his presence was dearly appreciated and loved by the Ironflame pack. It was an honor to be in his presence, and the entire place was in a great mood, celebrating his arrival.I observed the wolves scattered across the street, lining up for the Ironwolf's arrival. And somehow, a thought came into my mind. "Perhaps you aren't a bad leader."Ulric heard me say something. "Did you say anything, Ari?" he asked.I shook my head, turning my attention back to the wolves of Ironflame. They all loved
AriAt that moment, everyone’s eyes turned to me, piercing into my soul. I felt very uncomfortable, not knowing how to react or where to look. The crowd’s eyes were locked on me, and there was nowhere to run. I never expected to end up in this mess. They waited for me to say anything, but I couldn’t. Even the Ironwolf was waiting for my defense. This time, Ulric bravely stepped forward, not hesitating to protect me.“Enough with this nonsense! No one should accuse someone without proper evidence. This could go more properly and legally,” he declared.Lady Aleria supported her son in defending me. “You ruined this celebration with your delusions. I cannot take this anymore.”I was thankful there were wolves willing to protect me. My fear lessened. Meanwhile, I saw how shocked Kristoff was. He surely didn’t expect to find out the truth in this way. I hoped he knew about this in a more peaceful manner.“You have no respect towards any superiors in front of you. And you dragged everyone i
KristoffAs the commotion settled, I rushed to the Alpha Mansion, my heart pounding with worry for my mother. Bursting into her room, I found her in tears, hastily packing her bags. Anika, her eyes filled with concern, turned to me as I clenched my fists, anger bubbling up at the sight of her distress.My nostrils flared with frustration, directed both at Seraphina and my father for once betraying my mother. Disappointment welled within me as I watched him approach her, his voice tinged with false concern."Where are you going, Joanna?" His words dripped with insincerity, and my mother shot him a withering glare."Does it matter to you? I think not." Her voice was sharp, filled with the pain of betrayal. Anika hurried to assist her as she continued packing, and I fought back the urge to confront my father.But he persisted, reaching out to touch her, only to be met with her fierce rejection. "Do not touch me, you fool!" Her voice echoed with defiance, and I could feel the tension crac
AriAs we journeyed back to Skagi, the weight of the recent events pressed down on us like a suffocating fog. Ulric remained stoic, his gaze fixed on the passing scenery, while Lady Aleria's concern was palpable in the tense silence. I, on the other hand, couldn't quell the restless turmoil within me. My mind raced, haunted by the fear of almost losing my baby, a terror that gripped me tightly.Upon our return to Skagi, the floodgates of my emotions burst open, and I collapsed under the weight of it all. Tears streamed down my face as I choked on sobs, feeling the overwhelming burden of guilt crushing me."Oh, please forgive me for the chaos I have caused you," I managed to utter between sobs, my voice trembling with emotion.Lady Aleria's expression softened as she rushed to comfort me, her arms enveloping me in a warm embrace. She dismissed my self-blame with gentle reassurance, placing the fault squarely on Seraphina's shoulders."None of it is your fault, Ari. Everything happened
KristoffOpening my eyes that morning felt like lifting a heavy burden, each movement carrying the weight of the painful events that had unfolded. I rose from my bed with a sense of resignation, drained of energy and enthusiasm. Every breath I took seemed to sap what little life remained within me, leaving behind only emptiness and pain.A deep breath drew the attention of my spirit wolf, Ivar, who reached out to me with concern. "Are you alright, my friend?"But I couldn't find the words to respond. I was tired, tired of existing in a world filled with nothing but agony and unfulfilled desires. I slipped into a depressive state, the weight of my emotions crushing me under their relentless weight."Perhaps make yourself busy… or learn to have a proper talk with anyone you trust about this… I could be the one you need. You can suppress this emotion while working, Kristoff. It will affect your name," Ivar offered, his words tinged with wisdom and concern."Do I look like I care anymore?