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PERSON_PROFILE

As the first snowflake settled, it whispered secrets of a winter tale waiting to unfold. A tale of pain, love and heartbreak.

I push the brush across the wooden floor, even though there is nothing that needs cleaning. Alpha Draven expects perfection, which requires me to clean multiple times a day.

God forbid a spec of dust falls. It might be missed if I only sweep once or twice a day.

"Mutt!" I froze upon hearing his voice. "Mutt!" Sighing, I place the brush down and rush into the other room. He turns in his chair and smiles at me.

"Yes, Master." I move and get down on my knees, my head lowering as I await his instructions.

"We have company tonight. Ensure the tables are set. There will be several guests."

"Yes, Master, I will get it done. Is there anything else?"

"These guests are important, and I trust that you will behave appropriately and follow instructions tonight."

I don’t have a choice. Alpha Draven forgets that it’s his choice, not mine. "I will, Master." I hear him rise and keep my head lowered. Unable to move.

"Raise your head." I lift my head and see him standing before me. "What is your role tonight?"

I consider my words. "To please you, Master and your guests."

"One guest in particular, Mutt, Alpha Ethan, I need to ensure that he agrees to this transaction, so pay more attention to him than my other guests. Do you understand?" His words are growled towards the end.

"Yes, Master."

"Good. Please go get the room ready. Your outfit is in your cell. I expect you to be wearing it before the guests arrive. You may leave now."

"Thank you, Master." Standing, I turn and leave. Walking through the house, I go to the room he uses to entertain guests. I begin to set up the tables. I clean them and ensure that everything is ready for the cooks and servants to put food on.

Walking back through the house, I go to my cell. I look down at the clothing lying on my mat. They give me the perfect indication of what I am expected to do tonight. The dress is short, so Alpha Ethan no doubt expects more than conversation.

"Mutt." I turn and get down on my knees.

"Yes, Sir." I watch as Beta Luca steps into my cell. He stops just before me and I stay looking down at his shoes.

"I expect your company tonight. Do not be late."

"Sir, Alpha Draven has already requested that I attend his event and focus primarily on Alpha Ethan."

I hear his slight chuckle and feel his hand fist into my hair, pulling my head back so that I face him.

"Then you will be sure to have a long night. My room once Alpha Ethan is finished with your body."

"Yes, Sir." A whimper escapes as his hand tightens on my hair, my scalp burning.

"Actually, I have the perfect idea. I'm sure Alpha Ethan will agree with my plan. You keep him company as Alpha Draven has requested. I'm sure I will see you at the event." He pushes my head forward, and I stay on my knees, listening to his retreating footsteps becoming quieter and quieter until they disappear.

Picking up the dress, I put it on. Pulling my hair up, I tie it high so it's out of the way. Walking down to the room, the guests are standing and talking. I step into the room, taking notice of the guests, and then I stop Alpha Ethan.

Walking to him, I stand with my head lowered, waiting for his attention and acceptance.

"Ah, Elara, you're my company tonight?"

"Yes, Sir." To be fair, Alpha Ethan isn't as bad as Alpha Draven or the Beta's here. He treats me like a person, but something tells me that will change tonight. Something tells me his relaxed approach will become tense and very strict later. I will do as he asks, though.

The last time I fought them, I almost lost my life.

Years Earlier…

I had to fight. Having him reaching me made me sick. So I fought, and he still took what he wanted, however. He took it relentlessly and with even more force.

When I was sold to Alpha Draven, I was young. As I got older, I was told it was a good thing. He's a strong Alpha with a good clan. I was told my life was set, but it was all lies.

I cuddle myself to fight the cold that burns through my body. It says something when you're so cold you feel like your body is burning. The snow is piling higher and higher around me, and I don't think I will survive this punishment.

All this because I didn't want him to reach me. I wanted to save that part of myself for my mate, but I'm his. I'm theirs. I was so sure things would be fine when I woke. I may have fought him off, but he succeeded in his mission. The marks across my body screamed that he succeeded. So when the door swung open, and Beta Luca dragged me out and threw me down in the snow unclothed, I knew I was being punished.

I'm not sure how long this punishment has lasted for. It seems like hours, but maybe that is just because of how cold I am.

"Look at the Mutt." I keep my head lowered at their mocking.

"Throw this at it." Beta Paul laughs, and I feel the snow hitting my head. The force pushes my body back, and I almost fall over.

"Don't worry, Mutt. We will warm you up after." I scream as he grips my hair and pulls my head up. The tears fall down my face, but they do not get far before they harden into ice.

Beta Jones leans into my face. "This will teach you never to refuse again, won't it, Mutt?" I don't reply, I can't. My body is too numb. The snow is stuck to me.

"That's enough, bring her in." Alpha Draven is standing by the door as they pull me inside. "Will you refuse or fight again?" I try to talk but can't. I'm shaking too much. "Answer Mutt."

"N-n-n-no Master."

His smile widens.

"Good, go get in my bed." I nod and walk away. Getting into his room, I climb into the bed. Right now, I'm happy to obey. My cell is frozen, and the thin sheet does little to keep me warm. At least in here, there is plush bedding that will warm me.

Chapter 2
I stay with Alpha Ethan but can feel Alpha Draven’s eyes on me the entire time. I also notice Beta Luca watching me closely. They are expecting me to refuse, to fight. I can’t; it’s not like I have a wolf or power to escape them. It’s also not like I have a wolf to protect me and help me battle the weather if I am forced to prostrate outside unclothed again.

“For you.” I watch Alpha Ethan hold out a glass.

“Thank you, Sir. However, I am not allowed to drink without Alpha Draven’s approval first.”

He smiles, seemingly pleased by my words. I watch as he looks at Alpha Draven, raising the glass and pointing towards me. Alpha Draven gives an approving nod.

“Now you can.” He holds out the glass, waiting for me to take it. I never drink. I would rather not drink. Refusing it, however, is defying the command that Alpha Draven gave me. So my hand wraps around the glass, lifting it. I take a sip. Coughing as it burns my pharynx.

His smile widens. “I’m on the edge with this transaction. I want to agree but also disagree. What do you think is the best choice?” He looks at me, waiting.

“I cannot say, Sir, it isn’t my place. However, Alpha Draven is an honest and trustworthy Alpha.” He is not, but I know that is what Alpha Draven would like me to say.

“Hmmm.” He turns and continues to walk, and I follow; He leaves the room and sits in a quieter one. I stay a short distance away from him and prostrate. It’s the standard protocol that Alpha Draven expects when any Alpha, Beta or similar is in the room until I am told to do otherwise.

“You don’t need to do that, Elara.” I raise my head at his words. “Please, come sit and get comfy.” He pats the sofa next to him.

“I apologize, Alpha Ethan; I am forbidden from sitting on that sofa. It isn’t for me.” Most of the furniture isn’t for me. Even if he insists I sit on it, I can’t. Alpha Draven would punish me for not getting his permission first.

“Where can you sit?” I point at the wooden chair. “That won’t do. At all.” I watch him stand. “Stay there.” I nod and don’t move as I hear him leaving. After about five minutes, I begin to wonder if he is even returning. I can’t just go and find him. Sure, Alpha Draven insisted I spend all my time with him. Still, if I moved, I would defy Alpha Ethan’s instruction, and well, I’m sure Alpha Draven would have a reaction to finding out that I did that.

“Come.” I stand hearing his instruction. Turning, I see Beta Luca standing beside him. I step towards them and watch as they turn and walk out. I fall into step behind them, keeping my head down as I follow them through the house. We stop at a guest room, and Alpha Ethan opens the door. He holds it for me and gestures that I walk in. Stepping forward, I go through the door. “Remove your clothes.” I watch as he stands before me and loosens his tie before removing it entirely.

Taking a deep breath, I lift the dress and place it on the side. Alpha Ethan stands with his eyes on me. I watch as he slowly walks around me, circling me until I feel like prey under his movements. He pauses behind me, and my body shakes. I hate not being able to see what they are doing and thinking.

“I have some instructions that I am hoping you will follow without hesitation.”

“Of course, Sir.” I feel sick. I hear him moving and watch as he walks past me to a suitcase. He flips it open, and I panic when I hear metal. I watch him take out the long chain with cuffs attached.

“You see, even if you planned to refuse, you won’t get a chance to.” I watch as he hooks the chain into the ceiling, my body getting pushed to him. I stumble, and his hand reaches out. Grabbing my wrist, the cuff locks around them. I scream as the spikes dig into my skin. He ignores my reaction, grabbing my other wrist and snapping the restraint around it. I held myself to stop the scream that builds.

“Now you have no choice but to follow instructions. You refuse...” I scream as he pulls the chain, and the spikes dig deeper into my wrists. “I ensure you listen.”

His calm and friendly attitude from before has gone, replaced with pure darkness and evil. I should have known all Alpha’s were the same. None I have met yet care, and why would they? I’m nothing.

~~~*~~~*~~~*~~~*~~~

When I am placed back in my cell, I crawl to the small bathroom I have. My body hurts so much it feels like it’s on fire. Nowhere is painless; I ran out of tears hours ago, and guttural cries escape my voice as I struggle to make it into the tiny shower. Hitting the button, I collapse under the spray of the water. My eyes finally look down at my body, the angry brown marks showing; each new bruise I see seems more prominent than the last one. The large bite marks are bleeding so badly that I know for sure they will scar without the use of magic.

I watch the water rush around me, the blood from their marks mixing within it as it runs down the drain. Cries continue to erupt from within me as I struggle to find any position that eases the pain.

“Mutt.” I go to move, hearing him, but my body is too tired and hurt to obey. I simply fall back down again. “I will get someone to fix the worst bites and cuts.” I hear him leave and breathe a sigh of relief; I was sure he would request that I join him in bedroom. I don’t think I could agree or even refuse. My body right now can’t do anything. It’s useless without my wolf to help me heal.

I hear movement and watch Alex walk in. His eyes widen when he sees me; he glances towards the door quickly, then back to me. “Are you okay?” He turns off the water, lifts me from the shower, and carries me through, placing me on the mat; he wraps my sheet around me. I watch him crouch down before me, unscrewing the lid. His hand run through the ointment, and he rubs it across the bites and cuts. It helps. The burning sensation stops.

“I’m sorry I cannot do more, Elara; I’m very sorry.” He looks at me as he continues to cover the bites.

“It’s fine, thank you, Alex.” He nods and smiles, and I watch it begin to work. The bite marks slowly start to close up and heal.

“Alpha Draven must have realized your wounds were serious to request we use magic to heal them. Good night, Elara.” He stands and leaves. Lying down, I realize this has to be the worst beginning of my birthday ever. My eyes flutter close, and I fall asleep, unable to stay awake any longer.

Chapter 3
I've cleaned multiple times again today. Alpha Draven has been watching me unusually closely, and I feel like something is coming. I don't know what, but something.

He never usually pays this much attention to me outside of the bedroom. So why now?

I followed their commands last night despite the immense pain I was in. I didn't refuse or say no. So I know I have not done something wrong with them, or at least I hope not.

"Mutt." I move and prostrate at his feet. "I am busy; ensure the guest room is cleaned and ready for guests who may be staying tonight."

"Yes, Master." He stands and walks out. I walk through to the bedroom and fight back the vomit. The memories of last night are more potent in this room.

The blood is still on the floor and the sheets. Along with actual vomit because Alpha Ethan seems to have a fetish for gagging women to the point they are physically sick.

I began to clean the room, removing every trace of evidence of what had happened to me in this room last night. It takes far longer than it should due to my hurting. The bruises are far more prominent today.

They cover every inch of my body, and my face isn't excluded; it didn't escape the torture of mistreatment. Carrying the sheets through the house to the laundry room, the maid looks at me and takes them. I stop when I see the Television on. I rarely get to see it or watch it.

It's the king, Alpha Prime Darius.

"Anyone is welcome, yes." He stands tall, his hair dark, and his eyes bright emerald.

"Does that include those of poorer backgrounds, without strong packs, or without a pack at all?" The reporter questions him, and the camera zooms in.

"Yes. There is no restriction on it, except the contestants cannot be bitten and claimed." What is going on? I look towards the maid.

"You didn't know? After the king had passed away, Alpha Prime Darius took over. He's holding a sort of game, a trial for females between the ages of eighteen and thirty-five. He's looking for his Luna."

I didn't know.

"No, I shall not be personally selecting. How would that be fair?" He chuckles and leans forward, looking directly at the camera, almost like he is looking through the lens directly at me. "Magic will be used. Fifteen women, one Luna. However, there is a chance a lady may be lucky and picked up by Alpha Kellan."

I hear claps and gasps. Alpha Kellan is his younger brother, the prince. So, while one will become his Luna and the queen, one will possibly be chosen by Kellan to be his Luna.

"It's easy. Those wanting to take part, go online, answer a few quick questions and await to be whisked away to the castle." His smile widens. I record the website link.

I can find time, I'm sure of it. Turning, I leave the laundry room. I have twenty-four hours or less. The rules are simple: the entry form will be locked in twenty-four hours or when ten thousand women apply. Whichever comes first?

More than likely, the ten thousand women applying will be what closes it, not the time limit. I walk through and pretend to be cleaning; I briefly check the Beta's rooms, finding them empty.

Rushing, I sit at the computer and type in the address.

The form begins easily. Name. Age. Date of birth. Pack name if applicable. Questions regarding my appearance. Questions regarding my occupation or standing within my pack. Then it gets interesting. It asks about intimate partners.

That question, I lied on. I couldn't possibly answer the truth anyway; I don't know how many times I have been intimate.

Then it is the question about being bitten and claimed, I again lie. I will keep my mark hidden. Ten minutes later, I finished and submitted it.

Quickly deleting the history, I walk out and try to make it look like I am doing the regular jobs I am meant to. I doubt anything will come from this. He said everyone can apply, but even I know that those women will all have wolves and a pack and be high up in their pack. The daughter of another Alpha.

Me? I'm sold. I don't know who my parents are. I don't know if I came from a strong pack. I know nothing.

So of course I won't be chosen. If it was truly picked using magic, why require answers to so many questions? It feels more like it is so they can ensure the woman selected will be as good as Luna.

"Mutt." I walk through and get down on my knees, lowering my head. I wait. "You have a gift." I don't raise my head, even though I want to. I have never been given a gift before, and I'm unsure what to say or do.

"You may raise your head." I lift it and look at Alpha Draven. "Apparently, you made a good impression on Alpha Ethan. He requested that he be allowed to give you a gift, and I agreed."

"Thank you, Master."

"We spoke, and he suggested you may find a blanket more beneficial than a gift such as a bracelet." He holds out the giant blanket, and I have to be honest, I would rather have the blanket than a bracelet or anything else.

My cell is cold.

"You may take it." I reach out, taking it from his arms. "You understand, I only agreed because he has decided to go ahead with our transaction and felt you should be treated for your part." The words are almost growled.

He didn't want to agree. I can tell by his tone he wanted to refuse but couldn't. Instead, he agreed to get the agreement signed.

"Thank you, Master. I understand."

"Good, you may leave." Standing, I walk out; it's late now. Returning to my cell, I unfold the blanket and wrap it around my body. It feels amazing.

Sleep takes me instantly; the warmth and comfort of the blanket are the perfect gift; I rarely fall asleep quickly; I need to either be in tremendous pain or be extremely tired as the coldness of my cell prevents me from sleeping.

Chapter 4
It's been three days since I completed that application. My mind considers it as I wipe the table, ensuring everything is clean. Alpha Draven has been visiting Alpha Ethan and his pack.

Apparently, the agreement they are making is going well. Well enough for Alpha Draven to leave his own pack and travel

It's good, though; it means I haven't been punished for three days. I have barely had to prostrate as Beta Luca and the others are busy doing Alpha Draven's work.

I have even managed to get out of the constant cleaning and finally had time to consider the implications of that application. I'm sure Alpha Prime Darius will punish me for lying about it. I could be executed; I lied to the king essentially.

It was an instruction to answer honestly, and I didn't. So will Alpha Draven have fun telling them I lied if he ever finds out the truth? Finishing cleaning, I sit on my mat, my eyes close, and I try to relax; I was told he is returning today. So I've made sure I cleaned at the hours I was required to.

Standing, I walk through to the laundry room. The maid smiles at me, and I begin to get the correct items for Alpha Draven's bedroom. I still have plenty of time to get it done before he can complain.

"They are getting the women." I turn to the maid, confused. "The guards of Alpha Prime Darius began to collect the selected ladies today."

"Lucky them." I smile, and she reaches out.

"It could be lucky you." I look at her with a confused expression, and she smiles. "I saw, don't worry, no one else did."

I stand and panic. "If..."

Her hand goes up. "I won't be telling Alpha Draven, Elara, so you don't need to worry; I have everything crossed for you." She says that, yet she hasn't considered the consequences, just as I didn't.

I'm claimed; the mark is impossible to hide if he were to ask us to strip and confirm we're not claimed. I never considered the consequences of my actions, and right now, it’s too late.

All I can do is hope I wasn't selected, and why would I be? Wolf-less, pack-less, orphan, with no last name. I'm at the end of that list.

After replacing the sheets and bedding, I take the dirty ones to the maid, although they aren't dirty. They were put on two days ago. No one has even slept in it. As I leave, I hear the door. I quickly walk to my cell to avoid them. If I'm not there, I am hoping that I'm out of their minds.

"Mutt." Or not. Standing, I walk through and get down on my knees. "What is this?" I look up.

"A cloth Master." Why is he asking me that?

"And who uses it?"

"Myself, Master, they are the ones given to me to use." No one else uses them. He has a weird habit, like everyone has their own cloths. Why? So he can see whose cloths are used the most?

"Then why was it next to the computer?"

Oh no. My mind races back. I was cleaning that day and took the sheets to the maid. When I went to the computer, I had a cloth in my hand.

"I don't know, Master."

"That is a blatant lie." I hear him move. "Get it ready. Ensure the entire pack will be watching."

Wait, I stare at him.

"You went into a room that is forbidden. You used items you are not allowed to. Did you think this would go unpunished?"

I thought he wouldn't know. He wouldn't have if I didn't leave the cloth.

"Master, it was not me who put the cloth there." Maybe he won't punish me if I lie and make out that it was someone else.

"Lying is only increasing your punishment." He turns to Alpha Luca. "Drag her out." I feel my body get pulled up and pushed out. He rarely punishes me in front of the entire pack.

My body is thrown to the ground. On my knees, I keep my head lowered. I know that I caused this. Now, I consider his plan, maybe to keep me prostrating here and battle the weather with them watching.

"If I give instructions, I expect them to be followed even when I am not in sight."

I feel the cuffs wrap around my wrists. So, I’m not going to be punished by having to face the elements?

"So this is a reminder that I won't allow it to happen," I scream as my body is pulled up by the cuffs around my wrists. My toes barely reach the floor.

"Now," I scream, feeling the whip hit against my back. My head raises, and I look at Alpha Draven. He had sworn never to do this to me.

"Again." I brace myself, but it does little to help. Screaming; tears flow from my eyes.

"Again." The pain from the whip has me slump forward, the scream getting tangled in my voice with the sob.

"Again." I stare at Alpha Draven. Screaming, I dangle from the chains, my eyes seeing Alex in the crowd. My head drops, I never expected him to give me this punishment.

The pain is worse than the other night. I can feel the blood running down my back from the lacerations. I hear cars and raise my head. I watch as the crowd disappears.

"Take it inside." Alpha Draven points to me, and I feel the cuffs being removed, and I fall down. A hand grabs me and drags me through. As we get inside the door, I'm dragged forward.

"Stop! “Alpha Draven shouts. My body is dropped, and I prostrate, ready for Alpha Draven to begin yelling at me. "Apparently, Alpha Prime Darius has sent guards for you, Mutt!"

Oh no. I raise my head slowly to see him glaring and growling at me. Is this because they know I lied? I have a feeling tonight's punishment is only the start of it.

Chapter 5
"Why me?" I look at the guards as Beta Luca pulls me to my feet.

"You're to join the other candidates at the Luna Battle. Alpha Prime Darius has requested that you attend after your submission made the finals."

My body stills as I’m shocked by their words. I never expected to be chosen. I feel Alpha Draven's eyes on me, and I know his anger is rising because of this. He can't refuse, he can't go against Alpha Prime Darius's commands, but he has the power to announce that I am already bitten and claimed by him.

Standing, I wait for his words, and I wait for his refusal or acceptance. Surely he will speak soon?

"Mutt, I suggest you pack your bag." I move quickly through the house and to my cell, packing the few items I have. Pulling off the top I am wearing, I winch and hold in the screams.

Someone steps into my cell as I begin to pull on my top.

"He sent me to cover your lacerations." Alex smiles, and I turn. "At least you are released." His words are whispered as I hold myself to stop the screams as he rubs the ointment across my back.

"For a short time." I won't be forever.

"All done, good luck." He walks out. Pulling my top down, I grab my things and walk out.

As I make my way through the house, I bump into Beta Luca.

"You won't be gone long, Mutt. Enjoy the freedom; Alpha Prime Darius will quickly throw you to the curb when he realizes you're a wolfless, packless harlot."

His words are correct, and there's nothing I can do to change it. Maybe, though, once I am removed from this competition, I can make it to the Nightfall Citadel, the only place for rejected, wolfless people. Alpha Draven will never come there to collect me.

I stop at the door, the guards looking at me.

"See you soon, you can guarantee it." Alpha Draven watches as I walk out. I follow the guards and see the packs outside, watching as I step into the car. I'm lost on what I am meant to do. I don't know anything about this.

I know nothing about the world, either. We stop at the palace, and I step out of the car.

"The maid will guide you inside." The guard points to the door.

"Thank you." I give him a small smile, and he nods. Walking to the door, the maid looks at me.

"Follow me, please. You are the last to arrive." I walk through with her. She guides me through the palace, and I glance around, amazed. I thought Alpha Draven's home was lavish. This is on a whole new level.

"Through here." She opens the door, and I step inside. I see the other women they are standing close to each other. Already, groups are forming. I can clearly see the ones who are high up in their packs. The ones trained to be here are standing together.

Their voices quiet as they speak. Expressionless faces, as if this isn't a big event.

I stand close to the women but try not to draw attention to myself. Everyone is dressed beautifully, and I am in jeans and an old, worn T-shirt. Their dresses are something that you would expect the king’s Luna to wear.

My eyes leave them, and that's when I notice the cameras. I'm not ready for this. Panic builds in me.

"Excuse me." I glance up, looking at the man, confused. "You're too close. Please move back."

"Sorry?" I look at the news producer.

"You heard me. You're too close to the candidates. Move!"

"I-I'm a candidate."

I hear laughter. My body is pushed back, and I stumble before regaining my footing.

"Please don't disrespect the king; he won't be pleased when he arrives to see trash stood with his possible Luna!" The man pushes me back further.

"I am not lying. I was chosen to be here. Ask the maid. She brought me in." I point to her, and he laughs.

"Look, you're making us look bad. Move away, you stink." One of the women looks at me with a disgusted expression. "Surely you should be like in the cellar cleaning the floor?"

I hear some of the women laugh. The producer laughs as well.

"People like you don't belong here! You're not part of this; you would never be, and the king wouldn't allow it!" He pushes me hard, and this time, I fall and am ready for the pain when I hit the floor.

Instead, I feel a hand catch me before I can hit it.

"What is going on here?" I look up to see Alpha Kellan holding me. He has the same emerald eyes as Darius.

"She wouldn't get out of the shot; we were trying to get footage for your highness." The producer looks at him.

"And why was she required to be moved out of the shot?" He steps in front of me.

"She doesn't belong here. I am sure when Alpha Prime Darius arrives, he won't be happy with delays caused by the help."

"Well, you made the delay. Didn't you?" He steps forward. "As you're also 'the help,' you personally caused this delay."

"I didn't mean to do that, Sir; I needed to get a clear and clean shot of only the candidates."

"Which she is." The producer stills upon hearing his words.

"I-I..." He stops.

"Assumed. Didn't the broadcast say everyone was welcome to apply and that everyone had an equal chance?"

"W-we just assumed that was for the cameras, Sir."

"Well, it wasn't. Now, apologize; I will be letting the king know about this, considering she is possibly his future Luna and your queen." His face pales at Alpha Kellan's words.

"I'm sorry, miss." He bows his head.

"Ella." Alpha Kellan waves a maid over. "Please see that Elara is dressed appropriately. Then she fits in." He turns and walks away, Ella rushes and pulls me out. Taking me into a room, she quickly helps me strip and pull on a dress.

I still look awful, but far better than I had before. I can't complain. Putting on the shoes, I stand, and Ella guides me out. I stand with the women again.

"God, they really are letting the Mutt stay." One of them glares at me.

"Well, they need to make it look real. The Mutt will be gone at the first round." One of the women laughs.

"Ladies!" Someone calls our attention to him. I look forward and see the man standing on a stage. "I'm Beta William. The personal representative for the king. He will be joining us soon, at which point I will announce the first task for you ladies. Please do not approach the king. He will not be doing personal meetings today."

The girls all nod, and some are clearly excited. I look through them, trying to find where I would fit in. Right now, I don't feel like that is anywhere.

Chapter 6
We stand quietly and wait. The camera pans across the women as we stand waiting for the king. I notice the camera lingers on the other contestants for a longer time than they do me.

The producer smirks at me; I don't need time on screen; it isn't down to the public who is Luna. So, he purposely cutting my time down is fine with me.

I watch the door open, and the king walks in with Alpha Kellan. His eyes scan the contestants as he makes his way to the stage. He barely settles on any of them for longer than a few seconds. Then he reaches me and stares; I shift uncomfortably; no doubt this is him noticing I have no wolf.

He steps onto the stage and keeps his eyes on me the entire time. I try to be confident and look back. Yet, it cracks, and I fail. My eyes drop quickly. I'm so used to having to prostrate to Alphas and Betas. I don't even feel like I should look at him without permission.

"Ladies," William calls our attention back to him. "After the rules are explained, you will face your first task. Each candidate will be sitting with the news crew. You will be asked questions, and the scores will be based on who grabs the audience's attention; the better you do, the longer you will get."

Well, I've failed. The producer already hates me. No matter what my answers will be, he will cut it quickly.

"You will all be staying in one hall; each of you will have your own room, along with a maid and guard. You may be the future Luna and queen, so you need to get ready for that reality." William stands and discusses the rules.

Every single one of us listens. We listen to the areas of the palace that are off-bounds if less the King, Prince Kellan or their personal guards request us to go there.

We are expected to behave in a manner that the Luna would, both inside our rooms and outside. Regardless of if we're alone or not. No contact with the outside world. We're not allowed to listen or watch the TV.

The rules seem to go on forever before William steps back. Alpha Prime Darius, the King, steps forward.

"All candidates are required to attend each meal on time. From time to time, Prince Kellan and I will also attend." He steps forward slightly. "Each candidate that is here has an equal chance to prevail. It is solely on your efforts and abilities throughout the competition. If you fail, you only have yourself to blame."

Alpha Kellan steps forward. "As you are aware, Alpha Prime Darius, your king, will select one candidate to be his Luna and, ultimately, the queen. However, I may myself pick a candidate to be my Luna."

"How will that work?" I hear one of the women, and he chuckles.

"Do not worry. I will not sweep you away from my brother. I will…like him and get to know you personally. At the end of each round, if I feel someone should stay, who would be suited to me. I may save them from leaving that round, but that does not mean they will be chosen by me in the long run."

So, even if someone loses, they may be saved by Alpha Kellan. I just assumed he would pick the one who came second.

"Okay Ladies. The instruction of your interviews will be selected at random." I watch William pick up a small box from the table. Opening it, he reads.

"Astrid, please come take a seat. Ladies, we request that you stand and wait your turn, but keep the noise down to avoid disrupting the filming." He walks away, and the women begin to sit. Moving, I join them and feel eyes on me.

Alpha Prime Darius is staring at me. I notice Alpha Kellan is whispering in his ear. So he's talking about me, I am guessing? I watch Astrid as she is interviewed. She seems to be doing well. Twenty minutes later, she stands and joins us.

"Next up is." William selects a box. "Aurora." I watch her stand and walk to the cameras.

It feels like hours. The women have been in front of the camera anywhere from five minutes to half an hour each. So far, I'm yet to go. I feel like this is set up so I would be last, and they would have a reason to cut mine short.

Both Darius and Kellan have left.

"Hi." I turn to the woman next to me. I believe her name was Sage?

"Hey." I give her a small smile.

"You should be next, right?" She looks at me, and I nod. I can't not be next. Everyone else has done theirs.

"Good luck; unfortunately, none of the questions for the candidates were the same." I nod at her words.

"What is your name?" She looks at me.

"Elara."

"It's nice to meet you, Elara; I'm sorry about earlier." She nods towards the other women.

"It's fine." It's far better than how I have been treated in the past.

"Considering they are here to become Luna to the king, you would think they would realize their actions were not very Luna-worthy." We both chuckle, as she isn't wrong. The way they acted wasn't how a Luna would.

"I am amazed; some of them have trained for this their entire lives and seem to forget that training. I couldn't imagine the king’s Luna acting like that." It was shameful, in private, yes. In front of a room full of people?

No, that wasn't how a Luna would react. I wonder if they realize that.

"Okay, Ladies, thank you for your participation. You will now be guided by your maid back to your rooms." The producer stands and looks at us.

Where is William?

"Sir, you haven't interviewed everyone." Sage smiles. He glances around and then at me.

"We interviewed who matters." He stands and tells them to pack away.

"No, you have not." I watch William walk over. "I trust that I don't need to remind you that it was the king's instructions that each lady has a chance." He picks up the box and opens it.

The producer nods and sits, his frown quickly aimed at me.

"Elara." William points to the seat, but now I wish I wasn't doing it. Something tells me that the producer is going to ask questions that won't be appropriate and are set to ridicule me.

Chapter 7
I sit with the camera in my face; it's far closer than it had been for any of the other candidates, and I feel like it's a way to try and make me nervous. It's working.

"Elara, we don't have a last name. Why is that?" He smirks at me. I knew it.

"I do not have one. I was an orphan."

He glances at his papers. "An orphan? It says here you were sold?"

How much does he know?

"I was, yes, but I was first an orphan."

"Hmm." He looks at me. "Elara, is it true that you were a servant and harlot for your past Alpha?"

I freeze, and I watch his smile widen.

"End it here." I watch him turn the camera off. "You're done."

"Wait." He can’t cut it off already.

"Sorry, but you couldn't answer a simple question. Not only that, but you sound bored and highly unworthy of watching. You’re finished, I think you surpassed the candidates. One minute, well done." He laughs.

"Ahm." He raises his head, and I watch the roll of his neck as he swallows. "Delete it. All the footage you just took of her, delete it."

"Prince Kellan, I'm sorry, but the king requested we do no retakes or deletes."

"The king wouldn't want that footage used. The last question alone is vile and shows the royal family as sleazy. Now delete it and start again."

I don't turn to look at him. I just stay still. I watch the producer mess about with the camera.

"This will be spoken of to the king; he was already displeased with your behavior before he arrived. I'm sure with this, you won't be filming after this." I hear a chair move and watch as he places it next to me and sits.

"I apologize." The producer's head lowers.

"This competition is meant to be non-biased and available to all. Your actions, however, make it seem like the competition is biased and focused on only a few women. That is disrespecting the king's wishes."

The producer doesn't reply. He sits and sets back up the camera. I watch him finish and sit back.

"You may leave Prince Kellan." He looks at him.

"I should stay, ensure that you're being appropriate."

"I understand, Prince Kellan; however, won't it appear that the mu...Elara is getting special treatment if the kingdom sees you sitting with her and none of the other candidates?"

"Please understand, I am not walking away. Someone must ensure you follow the rules and don't cut this short because of your beliefs."

Prince Kellan stares him down, and I watch him nod. The producer presses the button and looks at his paper; his eyes scan it, and silence engulfs us. I'm guessing his paper only has inappropriate questions.

"Elara, may I know why you decided to participate in this?" Alpha Kellan looks at me.

"Well, Alpha Kellan, you could say it was interesting; I was intrigued to see the outcome of my application. I also did not expect to be chosen."

He nods and smiles, looking at the producer, but he is still searching for a question.

"What would you say are some important traits that a Luna to the king must have, Elara?"

I smile at his question. "That, Alpha Kellan, is an amazing question. I would say understanding is essential. The King’s Luna meets people from all walks of life, so she must be understanding to each of them. She must also be resilient and calm. A Luna shouldn't act on impulse or her emotions."

"Very well answered." He turns and grins. "Do you think you have those traits?"

I chew my cheek slightly. "I would like to think so, but wouldn't we all? The fact is, Alpha Kellan, no one truly knows until they are put into situations where those traits are required." He goes to talk, and the producer cuts him off.

"So you have never had to be understanding or resilient?" He looks at me.

"Resilience is one thing I know for sure I have. Same with understanding."

"How do you know?" He leans closer.

"Well, I wouldn't be sitting here right now if I wasn't resilient. I wouldn't have made it this far in my life. As for understanding? I understand some people's need to see me as merely a mutt, not worthy of being Luna; I understand that everyone has their own opinion and don't judge them for it."

His jaw drops open. Yes, I just called myself a mutt, which we all know he is thinking.

Alpha Kellan laughs. "I have to say, she answered that one perfectly, don't you think?" His grin widens.

"Was it true that you were being punished and whipped when the guards collected you?"

"Cut!" Alpha Kellan stares at him. "That is highly inappropriate!"

"Sorry, Alpha Kellan, I will delete it." His voice wavers, and he moves quickly. "Elara, there are many women here; why do you think you would be a better Luna than some of the more professional ones?"

"I don't think I would be a better Luna. There is no way to know that yet. Many will not be showing their true selves, so to believe you're going to be a better Luna would be a waste of time. I, however, can say that in my life, I have faced things many of the other candidates never have. That alone means I can understand and relate to the majority."

"That's enough." He presses the button.

"Why?" Alpha Kellan looks at him.

"Well, it's been long enough. The conversation isn't going in the right direction."

"The direction to humiliate her? I suggest you forget her past and treat her like you had any of the other ladies."

The producer sighs. Pressing the button, he sits and asks me questions. After nearly half an hour, we finish.

"I shall walk you back to your room, Elara. The other women have gone." Nodding, I stand and follow him out. We walk quietly, and he guides me through the palace.

"I apologize for the way you have been treated."

"You don't need to apologize, Alpha Kellan. It was not you treating me in such a way." He nods and continues to walk.

"Even so, I apologize. This is meant to be a fair competition, and you already seem to have the odds stacked against you to lose, purely based on others' beliefs."

"I expected this. Someone without a wolf, pack, or last name is not seen as worthy to be Luna."

He stops at my words and turns to me. "That I am sure will change when people see your interview. Good night, Elara." He walks off and I step into the room.

"Hi, I'm May!" The maid stands up and smiles.

"Hi, May, I'm Elara."

"Anything you need, let me know. I will also be responsible for making your gowns. Each event will require a specific gown to be made." I nod and step further in. "I shall leave you. I will see you in the morning." She smiles and walks off.

Closing the door, I get changed and instantly pass out on the bed, exhaustion crippling me.

Chapter 8
When I wake, I get myself ready. May had brought me some clothes this morning. All the contestants were given general clothing as they were only allowed to bring one small bag each.

Breakfast was awkward. Some of the women were looking at me like I didn't belong here. I heard the whispers and complaints because Alpha Kellan had sat with me during my interview.

That alone has already started to make the women complain and pinpoint me as a troublemaker. Yet, I've noticed they are more brutal to the other ladies.

It appears they think I'm not a threat. Which is likely correct. They don't think I can possibly get through and become Luna, so while they are all taking bites out of each other and trying to make each other feel like unimportant.

I'm here untouched. Sure, I get called mutt and Tramp, but it is far less than they are throwing at each other.

~~~*~~~*~~~*~~~

I'm sitting in the garden with Sage. It's still snowing. Something tells me this isn't going to stop any time soon. Yet the palace gardens look stunning right now.

"They are jealous, you know." Turning, I look at Sage, confused. "This morning, before you joined us for breakfast, they were clearly jealous that Alpha Kellan sat with you for the video. Not because it gave you leverage but because many here want him just as much as the king."

"He was being polite, that is all. He kept saying that the producer made the king and royal family look bad and didn't want it to happen." He wasn't there because he wanted to be with me. More to protect his and the king's reputation.

"We should get in. William will be announcing the next event." I nod at her words and follow her through. I hope the next event doesn't include that producer as the central part. If so, I have a feeling it will be a long, painful day for me.

We join the other women, and the whispers instantly begin.

"Watch when they come in, you will see." I turn, hearing Aurora. Her eyes glare at me. Well, I'm still hated. I laugh it off and wait.

"Ladies, the king himself will be announcing the next event. He will arrive any moment." William steps back, and I watch as Kellan walks in. His eyes glance across the contestants and land on me. He holds my gaze and smiles while winking.

"See." I hear Aurora and look at her, breaking away from the eye contact.

"Alpha Kellan and Alpha Prime Darius spent exactly three seconds looking at each contestant yesterday; apparently, Darius spent ten seconds looking at you, and Kellan apparently kept having his eyes on you," Sage whispers.

"Someone timed their looks?" What?

"The producer, apparently, so everyone knows."

"They were only looking at me for so long, questioning why I got here." Nothing more than that.

"Ladies." We all look towards Kellan. He loses everyone's attention except for mine; however, when the door opens, and the king walks in. Kellan's eyes come to me, and he smiles.

"He actually likes you." Turning, I look at Sage. "Seriously, he hardly ever smiles." She laughs, but I know he doesn't. He's been kind to make sure they keep up appearances.

"Afternoon." I watch Darius stand on the stage. "The next event will be now." Everyone gasps. "It will not happen until we eliminate those who didn't make the last round."

"Bye, Mutt." Aurora glares at me.

"Now, I believe we said those with the less time on camera would be going home. However, that changed." Yeah, as I thought, because I had more time on the camera, the only way to remove me was to change the rules for succeeding.

"As my brother Darius said, we're changing it. You get points based on how well your broadcast went. How many views it had, comments, and interaction."

I watch as the producer holds out the paper, and Kellan takes it. He glances down and turns his gaze back to him. I watch as he leans into Darius and talks. They both look at the paper, and their eyes go from the producer to me.

Anxiety builds within me.

"Well, I think it's clear who lost." Selene laughs.

"They could be wrong." Sage hugs me.

"I'm sorry, ladies, there will be a delay in reporting the victors and losers. After personal checks this morning, it appears the results we were handed are fake." Everyone gasps, and we watch as the producer is dragged out.

Everyone begins to speculate what was changed and why. They all assume the producer fixed it to put me at the top. Apparently, keeping a wolfless mutt here helps the family's appearance.

I couldn't see the producer making it, so I won. He hated me. A while later, Kellan and Darius walked back in, this time with another sheet of paper.

"Let's begin." Kellan looks at us.

"Elara had the most views, comments, and such." Everyone looks at me.

"The second person is Aurora." I listen to them list the names, and Sage is through.

The lowest two, Nova and Raven, were told they got the lower scores and were to leave. Kellan and Darius keep our attention on them, not giving the women a chance to snap at me. They will.

"The second event. I and Kellan will be staying here, and we will personally introduce ourselves to each lady. We will then choose which lady sits next to us while we eat tonight."

"This means ladies, please continue to socialize. We will come to you. Please do not follow us around, continue with your own conversations, and we will come and join in." Kellan smiles, and they walk off the stage.

"Congrats." I hug Sage. She was low on the list, but at least not at the end.

"I expected it. The bigger the pack, the more interaction they would get." Which is wrong. The only reason I got any views, no doubt, is because I am wolfless, and people wonder how I got here.

"It's wrong. Alpha Kellan sat with her; of course, she got more views with a prince on her side." Lyra glares at me.

"I can assure you that Elara's views weren't for Kellan. The comments alone show people watched for her, not him." King Darius looks at her. "If you believe it was so unfair, we will arrange another one sometime where you all have him sat with you."

Lyra closes her jaw and I have to stop myself from laughing. She got caught out acting in a way that a true Luna and queen wouldn't.

"I apologize, Your Highness; I didn't mean any disrespect, just an observation that I am sure the future Luna of the King would make."

Stepping forward, I look at her. "A Luna would collect all the facts before making assumptions. She also wouldn't speak out against the king and prince, marking their actions unfair."

"She would if she had a brain." Lyra snaps at me.

"Ladies, please." Kellan steps between us and laughs. "Darius, I believe you haven't met Elara." He points to me, steps around us and faces Lyra.

"I had not, no." Darius rolls his eyes. "It's nice to meet you, Elara." He holds out his hand, and I shake it.

"It is nice to meet you, your Highness."

"Please, just call me Darius while we're in such relaxed conditions. I wanted to apologize for your treatment yesterday from the staff, it wasn't very...Welcoming."

"It is fine, honestly. I wasn't hurt or offended." I've given up on getting hurt and offended.

"Even if you weren't, it was wrong." He points to a seat, and I walk over and sit down. He moves to sit next to me. "May I know where your wolf is?"

Ah, of course, he is going to ask that. "I'm not sure. It was taken while I was young. I can't remember." I can. I can remember the pain as it was pulled from me. I can't say it was Alpha Draven, though; there is a chance when I lose this and leave, he will grab me.

The last thing I want is to make him angrier.

"It's a shame, Elara. Something tells me your wolf was far from weak." He tilts his head like he is trying to sense it inside of me.

"I remember it vaguely. It was strong." Just not strong enough to fight off the magic that ripped it from my heart.

"Without a wolf, you may have an issue in the next round, Elara. I suggest you get the help of some of the ladies, one you can trust as it involves wolves. It is essential."

"Thank you, Darius. I will be sure to." I'm sure he shouldn't be giving me hints about the next event.

"I think you have kept her long enough. I would like a moment to introduce myself without formalities." Kellan smiles down at us.

"Very well." I watch Darius walk away, and Kellan take his spot.

Chapter 9
After our casual chats, we all went back to our rooms to get ready for tonight's dinner. I haven't seen the producer since, but the cameras still stayed.

"Your dress for tonight." May holds it up. It's ocean blue with a sweetheart neckline. It's the most beautiful thing I own. It's simple, which is what was required for tonight's meal.

Once I'm ready, I walk out, Sage meets me, and we walk down together. We walk in and see Darius and Kellan at opposite sides of the table.

"Okay, ladies. I will read out the name of those whom Alpha Prime Darius wishes to sit with him." William opens the paper.

"Aurora and Elara. Please take a seat on either side of him." Kellan grins, and it is one that says trouble is about to blow up. Ignoring him, I take my seat.

"The two selected by Prince Kellan are." William unfolds the paper and glances up. "We have an issue." He glances at Darius.

"Of course we do. My brother chose one of these two ladies." Darius laughs slightly.

"We will move you to one side, Sir." A maid quickly begins moving things around. Now, Darius and Kellan are with a space between them.

Aurora takes the seat, and I sit on the opposite side. It's obvious that is who he picked.

"Kellan has picked Sage and Elara." Everyone looks shocked.

"Please swap seats." Kellan smiles at Aurora, and she stands up quickly. We move and swap places. Yet her eyes glare at me as we pass each other. How is this my fault? I fight back the laugh and sit between them.

I wish it was Aurora, this is awkward. The other women pick where to sit, and I sit awkwardly between the king and prince.

The plates are set down, and I notice Darius has something different.

"Do you not like sauce?" I peer at him.

"Allergy."

Ah, well, that makes sense. I nod slightly.

"Not an allergy. He just uses that as an excuse." Kellan laughs.

"I believe the hives I got after consuming it is a confirmation of an allergy." Darius looks at him and then turns to me. "You mentioned you can't remember your wolf being taken. Do you remember who cared for you when it was taken?"

I do, although I'm not sure if I should say. I swallow and glance around.

"You see, my brother is fixated on finding out where the wolves are going. He thinks if you remember, it could be his way to figure it out." Kellan smiles at me.

He can find out easy enough. "I was living with Alpha Draven at the time."

"Did he mention it to you?"

My head shakes. "No." My word sounds cold and he tilts his head.

"It is weird he never asked where your wolf went."

"He rarely spoke to me." That is my excuse. He can clearly tell I am lying. Which is terrible for me, considering he is the king, and I just lied to his face multiple times.

"I think you should maybe talk to Aurora so she doesn't feel left out," Kellan smirks and Darius turns to her. She smiles at him, quickly covering the scrawl she had while staring at me.

"I would like to offer your assistance in the next event, Elara." I look at Kellan, confused.

"I already get seen as having special treatment. We best not confirm it more."

"You don't want my help?" He smirks at me.

"Some women believe I am being given special treatment, which has given me an advantage. I would like for them to realize that isn't real."

"The next event is different, so my helping won't raise questions."

"How so?" I look at him. His eyes glance around the table, and people are listening. Maybe they can hear him?

"I will explain later. Once it is announced." I nod at his words. Darius had said I needed help because I didn't have a wolf, so how would Kellan help me?

A guard steps between me and Darius, whispering something in his ear. As he turns he knocks the glass onto me. I stand up, but it's too late.

"I apologize." He looks at me, but his words say it was on purpose.

"It's fine. I shall go get changed." Standing, I walk out. As I make my way around the halls, I feel a hand grab me. Spinning, I see the producer.

"You think I will let you push me out?"

"I did no such thing." How am I to blame for his actions?

"No one wants you here; when the king realizes how bad you make him look, he will be grateful I tampered with the results to try to have you removed."

I don't reply; I just turn to walk away, but he follows. "Alpha Draven has explained that you follow instructions well." I continue to walk as he follows. Has he really contacted him? "He seems to think that you lied on your application. Is that true?" Turning, I look at him.

"Alpha Draven couldn't possibly know as he didn't even know I went in."

"Even so, how did you put a number for intimate partners when you can't possibly be sure?" I hesitate. "You didn't." His eyes widen.

"Ahm." I look up to see Kellan walking towards us. "Are you okay?" He looks at me, and I nod.

"Fine, I'm getting changed. I go to walk away, and he stops me.

"Why are you in the contestant's hallway?" He looks at the producer now.

"Apologizing as I was told to do so by the king." Apologize? I almost laugh at that.

"Is that so?" Kellan looks at me. I can't say no. Right now, I can't cope with more enemies.

"Yes." I don't want more drama.

"Well, you can leave now. I'm sure you could have apologized somewhere more public rather than following Elara to the bedrooms." Kellan states, and I watch as he walks away.

I turn to go to my room, and Kellan stops me.

"We're not devil's Elara."

"I know." I never said they were. I go to move and he stops me again.

"We know you lied on your application." My body stills. "We also understand that those particular questions were intrusive and would maybe make people feel like they would be excluded for the number. You didn't need to lie."

"I didn't lie." The number I put was random, as I don't know the answer.

"Really?" He looks at me, waiting.

"How can I lie when I myself don't know the number? It only accepted numbers. There was no way to explain. I couldn't possibly know the answer when letters were not accepted."

He peers at me, and the silence grows. I can see he is thinking something or maybe working something out in his head.

"You knew you could be punished and lied anyway?" He steps closer, and I nod. "Why?"

"Punishment from the king wouldn't be any different from the ones I received almost daily. At least this way, there was a chance I wouldn't be found out." He moves closer to me.

"You won't be punished for lying about that number, however..." He steps closer, his body against mine. "We may need to discuss it in more detail to ensure nothing else was a lie." I hold myself at his words, his smile widening.

"That's fine, I'm happy to be honest."

"Bitten and claimed?" His body presses against mine. Oh no, maybe not that honest. His hand strokes down my neck. I'm too busy whimpering slightly to notice his hand pull my dress down from my shoulder.

My hand raises quickly to cover the area.

"Oh, now that...is interesting." His eyes come to mine. "Bitten and claimed. Where is your mate?"

"I don't have a mate." His head tilts.

"You're bitten and claimed."

"Not by choice." I didn't want to be. I didn't choose to be or agree. "Go on, tell him, and have me punished." He will.

"Hmm...I think I will pass; I'm intrigued to see how this will all work out. My brother seems interested in you, and he's never interested in anyone."

"He's intrigued, not interested. Like yourself."

"Oh, no. The king is interested, as am I." His head lowers, and I hold my breath, he almost kissed me.

"Well." I watch Kellan jump back. "Dinner has ended; many will be leaving soon once William announces the next event, and here you are."

I watch Darius walk to us.

"We were talking." Kellan smiles and steps back more.

"Close for someone who was just talking. You do remember you're not allowed to have relations with the women, Kellan, not until you choose."

"You mistake my intentions, brother. I wasn't have relations with her."

"I don't mistake anything. You can't have relations with the contestants. It doesn't exactly set a good example, does it!" I step back slightly, inching closer to my room.

"Ah, no, you don't." He looks at me. "Stay right there. I need to speak to you after." Did he see my shoulder? I watch as he pulls Kellan away and discusses something.

I watch Kellan nodding and waiting as Darius walks over to me. He stops in front of me. His head lowers to my ear.

"Do not indulge my brother Elara. It won't end well for you."

"I wasn't..."

"Oh, you were." He leans closer. "Although I can't blame you, he has a habit of making people follow on his little missions to cause problems."

Well, I won't then. "I will keep space between us."

"Please do. You can't afford to have my brother's bad behavior used against you."

"We both know I won't be making it to the end and becoming Luna." That's impossible.

"You seem so sure? You were top for the first round. You got both mine and Kellan's attention in the last event. That's all it takes." I hear something, and he steps back. Everyone is staring at us.

Kellan is grinning with the other contestants behind him, staring between us. This is making me a bigger target for their hate.

"Please go to your rooms; I am explaining the next event to Elara after she had to leave early." I watch as they follow his instruction and rush to their rooms.

"The next event?" I look at him.

"You will be talking to wolves. How well you connect with them will be the key factor. Your points from that round and the event after will be added together. The one after is a ball. Consider your gown. More details will be told after the next event."

"Thank you." I turn to leave, and he stops me.

"Please remember what I said. Kellan isn't considering the impact of his actions on you. If the cameras had seen how close you two were...Well, it wouldn't be good." He turns and walks away.

Rushing into my room, I close the door. May looks up and smiles at me.

"We need to discuss your next dress, right?" I nod. That event will be essential as I am going to fail at the event tomorrow with the wolves.

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