| Scrape | 25 |
|---|---|
| Id | 890 |
| Active | 1 |
| Created Epoch | 1,717,446,236 |
| Modified Epoch | 1,735,168,014 |
| Scrape Epoch | 1,717,446,242 |
| Created | 6/3/24, 3:23 PM |
| Modified | 12/25/24, 5:06 PM |
| Status | completed |
| Notes | |
| Dataset External No | 890 |
| Filename |
| Id | Active | Status | Created | Modified | Created Epoch | Modified Epoch | Notes | Scrape Result Id | Original Ad Id | Adarchiveid | Collationcount | Collationid | Currency | Enddate | Entitytype | Fevinfo | Gatedtype | Hasuserreported | Hiddensafetydata | Hidedatastatus | Impressionstext | Impressionsindex | Isaaaeligible | Isactive | Isprofilepage | Pageid | Pageinfo | Pageisdeleted | Pagename | Reachestimate | Reportcount | Ad Creative Id | Byline | Caption | Cta Text | Dynamic Versions | Effective Authorization Category | Display Format | Title | Link Description | Link Url | Page Welcome Message | Creation Time | Page Id | Page Name | Page Profile Picture Url | Page Entity Type | Page Is Profile Page | Instagram Actor Name | Instagram Profile Pic Url | Instagram Url | Instagram Handle | Is Reshared | Version | Body | Branded Content | Current Page Name | Disclaimer Label | Page Like Count | Page Profile Uri | Page Is Deleted | Root Reshared Post | Cta Type | Additional Info | Ec Certificates | Country Iso Code | Instagram Branded Content | Spend | Startdate | Statemediarunlabel | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1846583 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:06 PM | 1717446604 | 1735168016 | 890 | 7573107572737428 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212351801400779 | crossbowleather.com | Shop Now | 3033 | NONE | dpa | DOG LEASH | https://www.crossbowleather.com/ | 1715981115 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441502892_748950130652610_5291600431370711030_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Et7NaHuXCHkQ7kNvgEcmwv2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDbG-lKsNKhNayplL7--uYDLBUokhyWLyiAVVx1EgCl1w&oe=666409A6 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441539629_990266819143998_1058009510856463769_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DtcvPjAb_sIQ7kNvgFO663m&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYChBw1CrPYwp6u6_Ir0zHLy7AHDdv9s44RLfwZViW3ebw&oe=666403A9 | 0 | 3 | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846703 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:06 PM | 1717446607 | 1735168020 | 890 | 1083400909390950 | 1 | 8.6977076492254E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100365976129594 | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | 120208658093470421 | play.google.com | Play game | NONE | video | The winter is coming | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.global.pnck | 1713774797 | 1.0036597612959E+14 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437535318_469514472170408_4590730795672562247_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=eKQmBFDgYmoQ7kNvgExUzsH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCYo1OhjNj2JuNP0alW0Ic3NrVKTm7kemwA-PekBelUtw&oe=66641384 | person_profile | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435716585_309818681982679_6116293612149961392_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=g_0sIVtYLY0Q7kNvgEC46gc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBeL1B8FJd_NCAK1VF4GxzH3HyVR2ztxDOpn8SngGXbnA&oe=66640A5B | 0 | 3 | Save your home through match-3 combat.⚠ | Puzzles & Chaos | 13312 | https://facebook.com/PuzzlesAndChaos | 0 | PLAY_GAME | 1713769200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846678 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446606 | 1735168022 | 890 | 1628870761260603 | 2 | 4.0207532931764E+14 | 1716966000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1705569912922526 | 0 | Archero | 120208389196620591 | play.google.com | Install Now | NONE | dco | One Man One War | {{product.description}} | https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.habby.archero | 1714461027 | 1.7055699129225E+15 | Archero | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439921914_1154802665548466_744206028294062338_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hNkKtFCM4u0Q7kNvgGp7FPa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJlAwwwLjep93LvFgffs44ozzOoUQkk__JDGoxMxmtdw&oe=66640236 | person_profile | 0 | Archero | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440350904_1613449449478031_2549544880645491586_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tZf0kar6jk0Q7kNvgHujgv0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBGHlIItC9hAg_WDlBRxY4DpNnX3e5ai_83ki2xVhNS6Q&oe=6663FF57 | 0 | 3 | Finally on level 9. I'm hooked... | Archero | 693456 | https://facebook.com/archerogame | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1714460400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846679 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446606 | 1735168023 | 890 | 1628870761260603 | 2 | 4.0207532931764E+14 | 1716966000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1705569912922526 | 0 | Archero | 120208389196620591 | play.google.com | Install Now | NONE | dco | One Man One War | {{product.description}} | https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.habby.archero | 1714461027 | 1.7055699129225E+15 | Archero | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439921914_1154802665548466_744206028294062338_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hNkKtFCM4u0Q7kNvgGp7FPa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDJlAwwwLjep93LvFgffs44ozzOoUQkk__JDGoxMxmtdw&oe=66640236 | person_profile | 0 | Archero | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440350904_1613449449478031_2549544880645491586_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tZf0kar6jk0Q7kNvgHujgv0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBGHlIItC9hAg_WDlBRxY4DpNnX3e5ai_83ki2xVhNS6Q&oe=6663FF57 | 0 | 3 | Finally on level 9. I'm hooked... | Archero | 693456 | https://facebook.com/archerogame | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1714460400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846681 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446606 | 1735168024 | 890 | 1142010500375792 | 1 | 7.67427602037E+14 | 1716188400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 128938680307262 | 0 | Local News op13 | 120207724151560619 | play.google.com | Install now | NONE | image | Local News: Breaking & Latest | Stay Informed with Personalized Daily, Local & Breaking News from Local News | https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.novanews.localnews.en | 1714424012 | 1.2893868030726E+14 | Local News op13 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | ALTOONA, Pa. (WTAJ) -- Bare fists and a toy crossbow were used by an Altoona man to beat a person who was in his house, police said. | Local News op13 | 0 | https://facebook.com/61551925476335 | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1714806000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846827 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446612 | 1735168025 | 890 | 770385115045236 | 1 | 1.1149525795503E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100365976129594 | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | 120207063840450257 | play.google.com | Play game | NONE | video | Become a wizard! | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.global.pnck | 1712056470 | 1.0036597612959E+14 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434320537_2078710005841304_3785793431189553652_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KMKMLpZbMTgQ7kNvgHe6Bu9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCh8yGks_Xk_JoBMumlIEbQ-tnciq9wYLKNBqMCtLBNKQ&oe=6663EA26 | person_profile | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435469674_790020682581921_7782306949325498669_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=OR6YYgEkMtgQ7kNvgE-1rbm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBnfglrqvh2LvbmVBWaZwQZKXqQhJy1XSvqo2HbWFVOtw&oe=6663F67F | 0 | 3 | 👻I bet you've never seen a game like this before! | Puzzles & Chaos | 13312 | https://facebook.com/PuzzlesAndChaos | 0 | PLAY_GAME | 1712041200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846630 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/23/25, 5:11 AM | 1717446605 | 1742724687 | 890 | 1388159118567725 | 2 | 1.2190089594755E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 300512699811774 | 0 | Jacob Le Vine | 120209298096870701 | NONE | video | 1716288753 | 3.0051269981177E+14 | Jacob Le Vine | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441952044_951373316686703_8989512360538552140_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=e4sqy59fDJsQ7kNvgGFZoP0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDrqe0Z_4AHZBLkQ--MWxYqbsO8I4Rlnae80wDFOXJ1LQ&oe=6663DD81 | person_profile | 0 | Jacob Le Vine | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441954738_420204757442662_3013086712613402006_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xC4LYn0CjfcQ7kNvgFjcd0a&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBzsnql8JYmK19uOBl_PcFQJCYS7jPQvZQk2sTqmLftcQ&oe=6663EA45 | 0 | 3 | Jacob Le Vine | 47 | https://facebook.com/61559045041201 | 0 | 1716361200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846629 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 5/3/25, 3:48 PM | 1717446605 | 1746305320 | 890 | 456143423627005 | 2 | 9.7967595647642E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 300512699811774 | 0 | Jacob Le Vine | 120209311842300701 | NONE | video | 1716336739 | 3.0051269981177E+14 | Jacob Le Vine | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441966319_7431954060186419_7019436939018665581_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Euv2sFWs65AQ7kNvgGuzBRP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDfLvTZhExdAoFBWNbqcvdOPRzTlOJMkOAfpvXKNLf6Lw&oe=6664118F | person_profile | 0 | Jacob Le Vine | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441955179_2182834468715830_3538574585864220607_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EHi8gNquIT4Q7kNvgHm7MSm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBKEmPf62qyIYHCTDV_FmkKMapOqO-90vHZiJIB1T8-Sw&oe=6663E59A | 0 | 3 | The NEW Strategy To Scale Facebook Ads in 2024 | Jacob Le Vine | 47 | https://facebook.com/61559045041201 | 0 | 1716361200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846612 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/23/25, 5:26 AM | 1717446604 | 1742725619 | 890 | 1465309150792037 | 1 | 8.2313511587971E+14 | 1717138800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100365976129594 | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | 120209490095970601 | itunes.apple.com | Play game | NONE | video | Myriad Fantasy Heroes | http://itunes.apple.com/app/id6446389130 | 1716796337 | 1.0036597612959E+14 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445066814_1155557845755033_1766527486575042676_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YF6UQcHyrpoQ7kNvgGU_W0z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAb4rrN3OESALrApSU3_yFSNmNyZ8dDBf_0vYTk8Djycw&oe=66640441 | person_profile | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445751511_3715376512123805_1459293540042751244_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=f1qMyci7RBcQ7kNvgHOcLrQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCrRwuNvpbZ8tC9FYg--_mfFhATwFaWn2qz-iajAO1Hew&oe=66640F8C | 0 | 3 | Fun and easy-to-master match-3 strategy gameplay. | Puzzles & Chaos | 13312 | https://facebook.com/PuzzlesAndChaos | 0 | PLAY_GAME | 1716793200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846570 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/23/25, 6:03 AM | 1717446603 | 1742727795 | 890 | 1517758279094768 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212380660540779 | shopcrossbow.com | Shop Now | 3033 | NONE | dpa | DOG LEASH | Discover unique handcrafted leather goods, custom hats, western wear, jewelry, and accessories for men and women. Visit us in Telluride, CO, or shop online for artesianal creations from our talented team of craftswomen. | https://www.crossbowleather.com/ | 1716054133 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/443862248_992595925794096_5511976783121626754_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kXZMBVKwPIMQ7kNvgG8uGfP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBPDO_LNNnTMQP6hTd-sShQmA__7AdOQ513bHTlHC7oug&oe=6663E8EB | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/443699096_308295012320090_7490075808420689746_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B29IjXeUpBUQ7kNvgGJFzy6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC0oPPUrorwZbewgBB6IzNcaQNhdRnmpvo4U4b5zieF9g&oe=6663E303 | 0 | 3 | Free Shipping on Orders $200+ | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846588 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 5/15/25, 8:37 AM | 1717446604 | 1747316273 | 890 | 1181505536597058 | 1 | 2.8315755636637E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212230904540779 | shopcrossbow.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | {{product.name}} | {{product.description}} | https://shopcrossbow.com/collections/bags-purses?utm_campaign={{campaign.name}} | 1715800611 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442483197_1544194039459569_4867311836262129271_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YWfL16eF5LsQ7kNvgHMMm2D&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAXH98xPFwQgbTays3YLueFbZkYga6cNexakkcc4iD5rg&oe=6663EC12 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441254678_1234837381014211_3825641477500826785_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5IxS1Dh1KDIQ7kNvgGpiDEa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDXmK4qBE6EP38HTbeUi0yQW07ypGdltsk46KKwYFPopA&oe=6663EC79 | 0 | 3 | Handmade in Telluride, Colorado | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715756400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846624 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/23/25, 7:26 AM | 1717446605 | 1742732808 | 890 | 982889593445761 | 2 | 3.9830884600136E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100365976129594 | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | 120210794096370763 | play.google.com | Play game | NONE | video | Make matches to unlock more! | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.global.pnck | 1716436795 | 1.0036597612959E+14 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442441605_2066932333708313_4871662113446920051_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uyrLemdWk6cQ7kNvgGEM5Vm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD1f7thxmqcTG3eEfama87ejKa2qBtLEI-QfCbJwTO3bA&oe=66640789 | person_profile | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444485442_863885789113748_1096578920222866597_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MHbUvWdrFHoQ7kNvgEXoahF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBrCzlf_o6dy07SLzMMx4oICWBtq3_InjtiGgJeQOPEZA&oe=666406AA | 0 | 3 | 🤔How high of an IQ do you need to beat the final level? | Puzzles & Chaos | 13312 | https://facebook.com/PuzzlesAndChaos | 0 | PLAY_GAME | 1716361200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846580 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/23/25, 11:30 AM | 1717446604 | 1742747459 | 890 | 2590033707845406 | 1 | 7.5338344500257E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212354190640779 | shopcrossbow.com | Get Offer | NONE | carousel | Handmade in Telluride, Colorado. | https://shopcrossbow.com/products/the-kingston-mini?utm_campaign={{campaign.name}} | 1715988063 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441575682_1358931868130954_7482231144824207652_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sMUYq1QNBZEQ7kNvgF8SKUu&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCB3KICoCChRjO_mETlGUDLML4Z9twKRCkTjvxGo2kCYg&oe=66640C38 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441501545_1148992602915693_3941691714738839560_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bbtd8DZBIlMQ7kNvgGuQvbC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD5zervN6TwBVXN-A_DhMGVj-I6nGJVjbiI8GPL1rSdcw&oe=666402ED | 0 | 3 | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | GET_OFFER | 1716015600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846594 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 4/14/25, 9:22 PM | 1717446604 | 1744683739 | 890 | 1164051484729599 | 2 | 1.1104521701857E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100365976129594 | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | 120209190609410257 | play.google.com | Play game | NONE | video | Match-3 SLG👉 | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.global.pnck | 1717150954 | 1.0036597612959E+14 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444458288_435591972591671_3756159558152481543_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9EP8UOWblgAQ7kNvgGRCt3y&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDtAzPYLbOIOpeiG4a5OlLomI4P6wPK7zmlNXRxW1ukRQ&oe=6663E334 | person_profile | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447193583_434422702855578_8366463585054449687_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gmv7T_qqM_kQ7kNvgH_qogm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB_OZMaSq-p6UXwbq5GBSEGdVxvxMlrLdY9Zcdj6bOHsQ&oe=6663EE83 | 0 | 3 | Solve puzzles, defeat monsters, and defend your territory. | Puzzles & Chaos | 13312 | https://facebook.com/PuzzlesAndChaos | 0 | PLAY_GAME | 1717138800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846662 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446606 | 1735168035 | 890 | 2350394028487311 | 1 | 4.1687643113596E+14 | 1715929200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1572180309763789 | 0 | DayDream | 120209832210870106 | instagram.com | Visit Instagram Profile | NONE | carousel | http://instagram.com/daydream_rollplay | 1715502943 | 1.5721803097638E+15 | DayDream | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441488596_356044523692123_2876433146947104897_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Ov4HCoo0xKkQ7kNvgHnV-3D&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDGWfDj0IhiCdsVW-a5lo8j-K7exPg-IXuQzeVbH2o4Aw&oe=666401A3 | person_profile | 0 | Rollplay | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441245146_1114862669820279_8401302131520551018_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ISAEgECw-rIQ7kNvgHOo0fW&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCZwNgLfHYCIqIhQjRSXdepxAqq-xeMFbe2afpsI-v9MQ&oe=6663E666 | 0 | 3 | DayDream | 265 | https://facebook.com/daydreamsoftware | 0 | VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE | 1715497200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846671 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446606 | 1735168038 | 890 | 3799049043665022 | 2 | 7.565239129612E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 2350897211813851 | 0 | Dice Heads | 6535749353563 | dice-heads.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Dynamic Game Play | https://dice-heads.com/monthly-bundle/ | 1715100148 | 2.3508972118139E+15 | Dice Heads | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441025634_427601459972226_2244058738067871556_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UNl9YyHNUBcQ7kNvgFQ9oOy&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDw9FvpS95OqkyY_ScoF-dlfUhCQR01_6GvjhRuT7X1iQ&oe=6663EE09 | person_profile | 0 | Dice Heads | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441521820_4536018356624095_9014324297885969323_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CNIXBVfAeeQQ7kNvgH6uouB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCVaNKOlTYm9uY5S4VTQSFRATxJaPp9-RQU9aCFFP_11A&oe=666411DE | 0 | 3 | Dice Heads | 2083 | https://facebook.com/diceheads | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846751 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446609 | 1735168040 | 890 | 762799398924244 | 1 | 3.2845536023858E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 892588401116730 | 0 | Practice Anywhere | 120207328534580376 | accubow.com | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | Scope-to-Phone Crosshair Sight | https://accubow.com/ | 1710617225 | 8.9258840111673E+14 | Practice Anywhere | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431950026_712364067761625_8500033827148086301_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BJFXgpkf6i4Q7kNvgFz7qJY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD0_gXHYxc5kIzXZrmb6tcBeFrQKS4GXsx7Jt7xzNHNXg&oe=66640FFC | person_profile | 0 | Official AccuBow® | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431972926_397577752988272_9068572841206466590_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RBTTKfJrSrcQ7kNvgGaR5W5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAZqgLYv2glSCsebzwrLWaG7wpKhu4HcSoSbELFJe-AAg&oe=6663DEF1 | 0 | 3 | Practice Anywhere | 9813 | https://facebook.com/practiceanywherenow | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1712905200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846608 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446604 | 1735168041 | 890 | 477007361339437 | 3 | 1.2129818834E+15 | 1717138800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 269620322892403 | 0 | The Spellbound Archive | 6570737626402 | instagram.com | Visit Instagram Profile | NONE | carousel | http://instagram.com/spellbound_archive | 1716895813 | 2.696203228924E+14 | The Spellbound Archive | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445408230_464328772937282_6576593722077286296_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xunsEcGlVxQQ7kNvgEQXRo9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC4ZDO8Xi1CiPXBJqpuRNero0GbrNNaSsZi8nTrh7GE5g&oe=6663EBFF | person_profile | 0 | The Spellbound Archive D&D 5e Content | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445700834_830615025647196_3841035041168247921_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mXHPioFXMN4Q7kNvgFAP-DL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCM51l-Jt0Zb8qDJkPnqQE0Kjig1ik91rJEp4Yp45oFxg&oe=6663DD81 | 0 | 3 | The Spellbound Archive | 2 | https://facebook.com/61557003984252 | 0 | VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE | 1716879600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846659 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/23/25, 6:48 AM | 1717446606 | 1742730512 | 890 | 2350394028487311 | 1 | 4.1687643113596E+14 | 1715929200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1572180309763789 | 0 | DayDream | 120209832210870106 | instagram.com | Visit Instagram Profile | NONE | carousel | http://instagram.com/daydream_rollplay | 1715502943 | 1.5721803097638E+15 | DayDream | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441488596_356044523692123_2876433146947104897_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Ov4HCoo0xKkQ7kNvgHnV-3D&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDGWfDj0IhiCdsVW-a5lo8j-K7exPg-IXuQzeVbH2o4Aw&oe=666401A3 | person_profile | 0 | Rollplay | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441245146_1114862669820279_8401302131520551018_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ISAEgECw-rIQ7kNvgHOo0fW&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCZwNgLfHYCIqIhQjRSXdepxAqq-xeMFbe2afpsI-v9MQ&oe=6663E666 | 0 | 3 | DayDream | 265 | https://facebook.com/daydreamsoftware | 0 | VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE | 1715497200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846619 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/23/25, 2:20 PM | 1717446604 | 1742757640 | 890 | 1816587168835877 | 2 | 1.1551186455047E+15 | 1716706800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 217316998627741 | 0 | Frost & Flame：King of Avalon | 120209480462610783 | play.google.com | Play game | NONE | video | Play for FREE! | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.funplus.kingofavalon | 1716260859 | 2.1731699862774E+14 | Frost & Flame：King of Avalon | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444957724_440073978721681_961887473215878163_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=S5Kv-hD6RqcQ7kNvgEEdIQb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDTegx_wG1oi-lBjSkhMNqdGINUc1bcdDmfgSf0gC9p-Q&oe=6663FB54 | person_profile | 0 | King of Avalon | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436348099_667801038836725_2729654405236386591_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QgNUuaSs0E4Q7kNvgFvVr6v&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAWm4-0ALETNc1R196xHPJu7xgj1A6UN2UzqvUUT1MvOw&oe=66640A28 | 0 | 3 | That Game Everyone's Playing! Join Now! | Frost & Flame：King of Avalon | 1213145 | https://facebook.com/koadw | 0 | PLAY_GAME | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846656 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/23/25, 3:17 PM | 1717446606 | 1742761079 | 890 | 1119408862628581 | 1 | 9.6926558442793E+14 | 1715842800 | ig_ads_identity | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 1 | 103727482787704 | 0 | gamingmosaic | 120209473013470183 | instagram.com | Visit Instagram profile | NONE | video | http://instagram.com/gamingmosaic | 1715727339 | 1.037274827877E+14 | gamingmosaic | https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.2885-19/441563613_976937650723697_4412158396931175376_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s200x200&_nc_cat=1&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=3fd06f&_nc_ohc=IhWB3e3axWgQ7kNvgFAVz2e&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=00_AYCwGBOQ-oL1RMZo0KJRGTWD5ecfiPebsNefhuNMIPVjwA&oe=6663F008 | ig_ads_identity | 1 | Gaming Mosaic | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438305443_1698880227185031_1475344905244406228_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=u1uelrpGDFEQ7kNvgEn31OY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA--q-0dQl4YtkoxqUKAkQT6q8Rn5Md5mHME4w8zFRN1g&oe=6664034E | 0 | 3 | Part 4 | rpg minecraft pt 4 #minecraft #100days <br /> cr: @treyovard | gamingmosaic | 0 | https://www.instagram.com/_u/gamingmosaic | 0 | VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE | 1715670000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846584 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446604 | 1735168050 | 890 | 7573107572737428 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212351801400779 | crossbowleather.com | Shop Now | 3033 | NONE | dpa | DOG LEASH | https://www.crossbowleather.com/ | 1715981115 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441502892_748950130652610_5291600431370711030_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Et7NaHuXCHkQ7kNvgEcmwv2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDbG-lKsNKhNayplL7--uYDLBUokhyWLyiAVVx1EgCl1w&oe=666409A6 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441539629_990266819143998_1058009510856463769_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DtcvPjAb_sIQ7kNvgFO663m&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYChBw1CrPYwp6u6_Ir0zHLy7AHDdv9s44RLfwZViW3ebw&oe=666403A9 | 0 | 3 | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846589 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446604 | 1735168051 | 890 | 1181505536597058 | 1 | 2.8315755636637E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212230904540779 | shopcrossbow.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | {{product.name}} | {{product.description}} | https://shopcrossbow.com/collections/bags-purses?utm_campaign={{campaign.name}} | 1715800611 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442483197_1544194039459569_4867311836262129271_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YWfL16eF5LsQ7kNvgHMMm2D&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAXH98xPFwQgbTays3YLueFbZkYga6cNexakkcc4iD5rg&oe=6663EC12 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441254678_1234837381014211_3825641477500826785_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5IxS1Dh1KDIQ7kNvgGpiDEa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDXmK4qBE6EP38HTbeUi0yQW07ypGdltsk46KKwYFPopA&oe=6663EC79 | 0 | 3 | Handmade in Telluride, Colorado | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715756400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846590 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446604 | 1735168051 | 890 | 1181505536597058 | 1 | 2.8315755636637E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212230904540779 | shopcrossbow.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | {{product.name}} | {{product.description}} | https://shopcrossbow.com/collections/bags-purses?utm_campaign={{campaign.name}} | 1715800611 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442483197_1544194039459569_4867311836262129271_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YWfL16eF5LsQ7kNvgHMMm2D&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAXH98xPFwQgbTays3YLueFbZkYga6cNexakkcc4iD5rg&oe=6663EC12 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441254678_1234837381014211_3825641477500826785_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5IxS1Dh1KDIQ7kNvgGpiDEa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDXmK4qBE6EP38HTbeUi0yQW07ypGdltsk46KKwYFPopA&oe=6663EC79 | 0 | 3 | Handmade in Telluride, Colorado | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715756400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846643 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446605 | 1735168053 | 890 | 292184883967378 | 4 | 3.1484091499465E+14 | 1716015600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 313000321890712 | 0 | Gaqqueb | 120210952886300454 | xorcyp.com | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐤𝐫𝐮𝐩𝐭𝐜𝐲 𝐒𝐚𝐥𝐞👉👉 Buy More Save More!!! | https://www.vyjnggf.com/products?handler=outdoor-gear&token=8H9tgskk | 1715768971 | 3.1300032189071E+14 | Gaqqueb | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436481696_443500681960150_285019546833616229_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bJmVExMpC9oQ7kNvgHLSj6K&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAACkzp9dtGyQV5G_OSqw1MkwjCIfK49OpQfV7HN_cLig&oe=6663EC84 | person_profile | 0 | Gaqqueb | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441540521_7429368013847753_7046223710132103922_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nj5gWF4badQQ7kNvgHHp7bA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC532Nr560MymZejsH2KswY2CsPLM4HnWYAO1GyLhIA0g&oe=6663E429 | 0 | 3 | Gaqqueb | 1 | https://facebook.com/61558872900229 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715842800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1846566 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446603 | 1735168054 | 890 | 807811607962880 | 1 | 7.0315357185007E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212380730920779 | www.shopcrossbow.com | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | https://shopcrossbow.com/collections/bags-purses/products/fringe-hip-pouch?utm_source={{campaign.name}}&utm_medium=Stories+and+Reels | 1716054304 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441694862_957970249357800_3698845736050406880_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=T5o7qxRApXEQ7kNvgF464uC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDc4XSJzdiA3SYpm1dVY-p7F9HyPeqpF9ndU31TQCxwYw&oe=6663F270 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444150535_353670874397898_9199287002329383091_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rpvL82QbAlEQ7kNvgFTnW2J&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAaJHo77iDvIxMXzItiyU2PVUZUoHnZCJQtGxPmDixq5g&oe=6663FE4B | 0 | 3 | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716015600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846529 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446602 | 1735168054 | 890 | 3319771278326695 | 1 | 4.7015607222557E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 432976013574610 | 0 | RW Safaris International | 6592954565332 | Send Message | NONE | carousel | RW Safaris International | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":null,"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you."}},"user_edit":true,"autofill_message_edited":false,"ice_breakers_edited":false,"welcome_message_edited":true,"surface":"boosted_post"} | 1717328340 | 4.3297601357461E+14 | RW Safaris International | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445027056_764491192521646_3807607392191323228_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qO7WAcvnJDIQ7kNvgFVRdvE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCWO2GO_jDzVT3T0_xP_P6F9pdYI_uvQduFvvdapqZdbw&oe=6663EB48 | person_profile | 0 | Rick Wolvaardt | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447052545_1099112034480948_3993123503900440941_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4X0MTDR0_mIQ7kNvgEAb8Fo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBzkpdATb0Py5TDsSK2IUudoh3z1D3GVhiVwCGXEGzQcw&oe=6663E573 | 0 | 3 | RW Safaris International | 8117 | https://facebook.com/RWSafarisinternational | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1717311600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1846549 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446603 | 1735168056 | 890 | 475300191825655 | 1 | 4.1294703157236E+14 | 1717052400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212380470800779 | shopcrossbow.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | {{product.name}} | {{product.description}} | https://shopcrossbow.com/products/heather-benjamin-claw-arrowhead-bolo?utm_campaign={{campaign.name}} | 1716053667 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442419409_1000954258286631_4377411983348532002_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nCcAOOLBv7EQ7kNvgHubHSB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBYyy97imU1tf2L4oFvUUQkNTtpxmATv24iTpdVmcq9LQ&oe=6663FD33 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444763530_1185121005708842_837956208575167369_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k6j6dxO7pzIQ7kNvgEMQk3L&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBgGRJroocaZ_jI0MtQTpMeD9pBLS5ze7nhhbmxanOhFQ&oe=66640DE3 | 0 | 3 | Free Shipping on All Bolo Tie Orders! | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1846714 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446607 | 1735168082 | 890 | 1569167473625855 | 1 | 7.8162569706704E+14 | 1717311600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100365976129594 | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | 120208137222680601 | itunes.apple.com | Play game | NONE | video | HEAD-ON CONFRONTATION | http://itunes.apple.com/app/id6446389130 | 1713346040 | 1.0036597612959E+14 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436317445_7717865694900632_4216141852749743204_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TGLvjq8AYoUQ7kNvgFcFtDw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCvJNsQgGrY6x6saKV6TsuzfpDEam8YJ1y23HiF3hhHJQ&oe=6663EA15 | person_profile | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436430366_825104596102844_9026268228192707121_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pBPfVT4x-_kQ7kNvgEyT4wL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBwDOT9-gK_hwiRlvoEl-mD1uNT3Md-1hs7wtaTSOHt3A&oe=6663FE7E | 0 | 3 | ⚠Your allies have called you out! Match pieces to awaken heroes. | Puzzles & Chaos | 13312 | https://facebook.com/PuzzlesAndChaos | 0 | PLAY_GAME | 1713337200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1846728 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446608 | 1735168083 | 890 | 1431880157695787 | 1 | 9.4428651081436E+14 | 1713337200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 235254296344339 | 0 | Adoread Romance story | 120207848353420113 | play.google.com | Install now | NONE | video | HOT BOOK✨Tap the button to read more👉 | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.adoread.book | 1713261150 | 2.3525429634434E+14 | Adoread Romance story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435690751_769403208658924_4024169789007209001_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HdPEmSx6TCwQ7kNvgFKWfxf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDV1em8WGFB6zxHnJ-7FivreSGXjf40EZaD_THdHOrHSQ&oe=6664093A | person_profile | 0 | Adoread Romance story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436261159_805721544940507_3867196156681009468_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CRxE1iBt2B4Q7kNvgHrtPmM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDED_y7XJpz1xS1lwOvoLGIWocPXQtoSkWIgWqian_Cfg&oe=6663F79F | 0 | 3 | Chapter 1 <br /> "Wesley, are you trying to harm me? You useless piece of trash, can't even make a decent cup of coffee, can you?"<br /> Madison Blair lifted her coffee cup and splashed it directly onto Wesley Harrington's face.<br /> "What are you looking at, you spineless waste? Your name sounds so lofty? I might as well call you a waste."<br /> Glancing at the grotesque expression of his wife's mother, Wesley pulled out his phone to check the time.<br /> Exactly twelve o'clock. It had been five full years since he married Taylor Reed.<br /> The appointed time had come.<br /> He had fulfilled his promise, safeguarding the Reed family for five years, transforming them from a family living off fishing to one perceived as affluent by the common folk.<br /> Wiping the coffee off his face, he turned and walked away.<br /> "Where do you think you're going? Go fetch some more coffee," Madison shouted.<br /> "Madison, didn't you say this waste is obedient at home, doing whatever he's told? I don't think he's taking it lying down."<br /> Madison grew angrier. "Wesley, you stop right there. My family has fed and housed you. If you dare disobey, I'll have you thrown out!"<br /> Ignoring her, Wesley continued downstairs.<br /> "When Taylor comes back, I'll immediately have you two divorced. Do you hear me? Stay right there," Madison threatened, "I'll let you know your place today."<br /> Grabbing a golf club, Madison swiftly charged towards Wesley.<br /> Seeing Wesley heading downstairs, she swung the club viciously at his back.<br /> Without turning back, Wesley gently sidestepped.<br /> Losing her balance, Madison tumbled forward, rolling down the stairs with a series of thumps.<br /> "Ouch... it hurts, it hurts so much!"<br /> As Madison reached the ground floor, she wailed in pain and her sister immediately rushed to her.<br /> "Wesley, what have you done? How dare you hit my sister!" Madison's sister hurried down, checking on Madison's condition.<br /> Wesley remained silent, observing the scene.<br /> "Quick, call Taylor. Tell her to come back. Today, she must divorce this waste." Madison glared at Wesley. "How dare you hit me? Not only will I let Taylor divorce you, but I'll make sure you leave in disgrace."<br /> "Mum, what's wrong?" At that moment, a gent and a lady walked in.<br /> The lady was Taylor, Madison's daughter.<br /> She ran towards Madison.<br /> As Madison pointed at Wesley, tears streamed down her face. "Taylor, he hit me, he hit me! When you're not home, he changes his attitude, scolding and hitting me in the slightest displeasure. He even pushed me down the stairs just now. Alexis can testify."<br /> Madison's sister, Alexis Blair, chimed in. "Yes, Wesley, this trash not only hit your mother but also threatened to hit me too. We cannot tolerate such trash."<br /> "Taylor, I have been telling you to divorce him for years. You've been supporting him, treating him like a Lord at home, but he's an ungrateful wolf in sheep's clothing."<br /> Helping Madison up, Taylor noticed the scrapes on Madison's arms and legs, her expression turning cold.<br /> "Wesley, why did you hit my mother? You better give me an explanation."<br /> Wesley looked at Taylor, his wife.<br /> Five years had passed, and she had never shown him kindness.<br /> Taylor dressed impeccably, a paragon of a successful lady, with a face that could be deemed angelic, yet whether her heart was as angelic remained a mystery.<br /> Her figure, too, left countless men yearning.<br /> For five years, Wesley had thought he might develop feelings for this lady, but in reality, it never happened.<br /> "There are surveillance cameras in the house," Wesley stated calmly before descending the stairs into the hallway.<br /> Despite residing in a three-story villa, Wesley's living quarters were confined to the stairwell.<br /> He harbored no resentment towards this arrangement. It was merely a promise. It was just that Taylor failed to appreciate him.<br /> This home held little value that he wished to cling onto.<br /> Retrieving a wooden box from beneath his pillow, Wesley extracted two documents. Casting a fleeting glance at the modest abode he had called home for five years, Wesley smiled faintly.<br /> He thought, "Finally... I'm free."<br /> Pushing the door ajar, Wesley was met by Taylor's piercing gaze. "I've reviewed the surveillance footage. Yes, my mother intended to strike you, but even if she did, what difference would it make?"<br /> "She's a lady. How much could her blows hurt you? Why did you dodge?"<br /> "If you hadn't dodged, my mother wouldn't have tumbled down." Wesley stared at Taylor, unable to comprehend her thought process.<br /> He had no interest in engaging in these arguments. Handing over the two documents to Taylor, he remarked, "The divorce agreement. I've already signed it. Take a look. I'm leaving with nothing."<br /> "With your current influence, there's no need for you to visit the city hall. Someone will handle it for you, right?"<br /> Madison was taken aback. She swiftly snatched the divorce agreement, flipping through it hastily.<br /> The contents were indeed straightforward. Both parties willingly divorced, with Wesley relinquishing all claims and having already signed.<br /> In an instant, Madison's pain seemed to dissipate. "Taylor, sign it quickly. Sign it."<br /> Taylor was still in a daze.<br /> She pondered.<br /> "A divorce agreement? Wesley has already prepared a divorce agreement. On what grounds?"<br /> "What gives him the right to initiate a divorce? All these years, he's done nothing at home, lacking any ambition. Always practicing martial arts, what right does he have to seek a divorce?"<br /> "If anyone should initiate it, it should be me. Moreover, now that I'm back to discussing this matter with him. Could it be that word got out, and Wesley, for the sake of his pride, rushed to prepare a divorce agreement first?"<br /> "It must be so, but... No!"<br /> "Wanting to leave with nothing, is he retreating to advance? As the chairman of the Reed Group, how could I be served with a divorce?"<br /> "Hey Wesley, I never expected this from you. Have I not treated you well enough? You seek a divorce, attempting to turn your retreat into advance, aiming to embarrass me?"<br /> Taylor glared at Wesley. "I'm telling you, it's impossible."<br /> Snatching the divorce agreement, she tore it to shreds.<br /> "Taylor, what are you doing? Such a great opportunity. Why not just sign it and let him leave?" Madison grew anxious.<br /> "Mom, I do intend to divorce this trash, but the decision must come from me. I returned specifically to address this matter."<br /> With that, Taylor produced two documents. "Wesley, remember that it's me who's divorcing you. It's me who no longer wants you. Initially, out of marital obligation, I had considered offering you some compensation. Now, you don't even need to think about it. Sign the divorce agreement and leave my home."<br /> Wesley offered a faint smile as he accepted the divorce agreement.<br /> "What are you laughing at?" Taylor demanded angrily.<br /> Wesley's smile seemed to mock her, fueling her rage.<br /> Ignoring her entirely, Wesley signed the document and handed it over.<br /> "What are you laughing at? Answer me! Who do you think you are?" Taylor roared once more.<br /> Wesley glanced at her before striding towards the exit.<br /> "Stop!" The gent who had accompanied Taylor stepped forward, blocking Wesley's path. "Taylor asked you a question, and... Your previous attitude displeased me. Apologize to Taylor, or I'll have you leave in disgrace!"<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 <br /> "Yes, let him leave in disgrace. He thought he could just hit me and walk away so easily," Madison joined in the commotion, also noticing the gent blocking Wesley's path.<br /> Madison had a keen interest in luxury goods, having frequented various high-end establishments over the years as the Reed family's living conditions improved. The gent was wearing an expensive watch and dressed head to toe in high-end luxury brands.<br /> Seeing Madison's gaze, the gent spoke. "Rest assured, today Wesley must pay the price."<br /> The gent introduced himself, looking at Wesley, "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Henry Clark, the eldest son of the Clark family and the general manager of the Clark Group in the North District."<br /> "From now on, I will accompany Taylor on her journey of life, and I will not allow anyone to bully her."<br /> "My identity carries weight. You should understand that. Now, apologize to Taylor. Apologize! Did you hear me? Apologize!"<br /> Madison's eyes lit up. She hadn't expected the gent before her to hold such a high status. She continued to shout, "Did you hear that? Taylor will be with Mr. Clark from now on. Apologize now."<br /> Wesley glanced at Henry, then at Taylor. He thought, "Have they been together all along?" Wesley had wanted to ask but decided against it because there was no need. He simply gave them a glance and continued walking towards the exit.<br /> "Are you ignoring me?" Henry's face turned cold as he reached out to grab Wesley. Henry's hand froze mid-air as he received a solid hit.<br /> "Until I sign the divorce papers, Taylor and I are still wife and husband. I don't care to investigate whether you two had any intimate relationship during that time, but don't provoke me, or I won't hesitate to make you regret it." Wesley's gaze was icy, and as Henry met his eyes, he felt a twinge of fear and swallowed his words.<br /> Taylor was also stunned. She knew exactly what Wesley had been like over the past five years. There were many surveillance cameras in the house, and she would often check them.<br /> Even when Taylor wasn't home, despite how her family treated Wesley, he always obeyed without complaint, especially towards her. He had never raised his voice, no matter how they treated him.<br /> Today, not only did Wesley dodge when her mother struck, but he also initiated the divorce and now even struck Henry. <br /> Taylor was at a loss for words, thinking, "How could this cowardly gent dare? On what grounds does he dare?"<br /> This change was difficult for Taylor to accept as if she didn't truly understand this guy. The gent who used to be obedient to her, completely submissive, now revealed this side of himself. She watched Wesley walk away in a daze, feeling a strange discomfort in her heart.<br /> "Isn't he leaving with nothing?" Alexis pointed at the wooden box Wesley was holding. "What is he taking with him?"<br /> Madison also realized. Over the past five years, Wesley had always treasured this wooden box, carrying it with him wherever he went. She thought there must be something valuable inside.<br /> Realizing this, Madison hurriedly followed. "Wesley, stop right there, leave the wooden box."<br /> Wesley paused, glanced at Madison, and said, "This is my personal belonging."<br /> "Nonsense, what personal belonging could you possibly have after marrying into the Reed family? Everything you've eaten, worn, and lived in over the years has been provided by the Reed family. Put it down."<br /> As she spoke, Madison reached out to grab the wooden box.<br /> "Ah..." A scream rang out as Madison quickly retracted her hand, a gash appearing on her palm, a crimson liquid dripping.<br /> The wooden box was now stained with the same crimson liquid, trembling lightly in Wesley's hand.<br /> "It's not the right time yet, the day you thirst for this crimson liquid will come," Wesley murmured softly, patting the box before turning to continue his stride towards the exit.<br /> "Monster! A monster!" Madison screamed, causing Taylor and the others to rush out. Seeing the wound in Madison's hand, Taylor was filled with rage.<br /> "Wesley, aren't you going to say something?" Wesley halted once more, contemplating before meeting Taylor's gaze.<br /> "Just stay out of my way from now on. Consider this a warning to you."<br /> "Taylor, that wooden box of his has a mechanism. It must hold something valuable! We can't let him take it with him," Madison, enduring the pain, reminded them.<br /> "Mom, your injury is important. We'll deal with him later. Let me take you to the hospital first." Taylor comforted Madison before calling out to the retreating Wesley.<br /> "Our marriage is over! Yet, you dared to hurt my mother! This won't be the end of it! I will make you regret it!" Ignoring her, Wesley continued walking out.<br /> "Rest assured, I promise he won't see the light of day tomorrow." Henry stepped forward to console. "Let's focus on getting your wound treated first."<br /> "I want him to regret ever existing in this world, to apologize to me in repentance," Madison roared.<br /> "Mom, trust me, I will make him do just that." Taylor looked at Madison with a mix of pity and determination. "Let's go to the hospital first."<br /> In the villa area, Wesley halted, his voice cold. "Get out."<br /> An elderly gent leaped down from a tree, appearing to be in his seventies, yet landing silently from a height of around ten feet.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, your father wants you to come home and take charge."<br /> "He stopped being my father five years ago. He's my enemy."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you misunderstood your father. He had his reasons back then. I swear in my life, once you know the truth, you will forgive him."<br /> "Huh!" Wesley smirked coldly, saying, "I nearly passed away back then. Is that also a misunderstanding?"<br /> The old gent pleaded, "Mr. Harrington, this situation is truly not as you perceive it."<br /> Wesley didn't engage further with the old guy. The events of that year were etched in his memory forever. He was the one who had been abandoned. If not for that incident, why would he have stayed with the Reed family for five years?<br /> Watching Wesley walk away, the old gent had tears silently streaming down his face. "Mr. Harrington, I truly... I truly can't bring myself to speak the truth, but you have misunderstood your father. He also bears burdens and endures pains beyond what an ordinary person can handle."<br /> As Wesley's figure disappeared, the old gent stood up, hesitated for a moment, then dialed a number on his phone.<br /> "Mr. Harrington is now divorced. I've given you the news firsthand. If your daughter is truly together with Mr. Harrington, you must fulfill the promise and let her persuade Mr. Harrington to come home."<br /> After hanging up, a middle-aged gent in a luxurious estate jumped up excitedly. Calming himself, he immediately made another call. "My dear, you're at Yeadeo, right?<br /> "Go find Wesley now. Don't mention the engagement for now. Use every means to get close to him, make him fall in love with you."<br /> "Dad, I don't have time."<br /> "No matter what you are busy with, you must go find Wesley now. No matter what reason you approach him, you must leave a good impression the first time."<br /> "Dad, I'm in trouble right now. If I don't handle it well, I might be good as gone. I have to deal with it immediately. I'm hanging up."<br /> Chapter 3 <br /> The middle-aged gent's voice lowered significantly. "Is there a big incident happening? You didn't tell me? What happened?"<br /> "Quinn Kingsley from Yeadeo, Mr. Kingsley, used our product and now has one foot on the grave. If something really happens to him..."<br /> "You mean Quinn, the uncontested leader of Yeadeo?"<br /> "Yes."<br /> "In that case, you should go find Wesley. Trust me, in this world, there is no problem that Wesley can't solve. As long as he's willing to help, you'll be fine. Listen to me, go find Wesley immediately."<br /> The lady fell silent for a moment before saying, "Okay."<br /> At Yeadeo Harbor, a gent with a large flaxen chain and a watch, sporting a crew cut, hurriedly disembarked, accompanied by a dozen gentlemen.<br /> "Mr. Reed, wherever that trash is, we will find him and tear him apart."<br /> "Yes, that guy dared to harm your mother. We'll make sure he pays for it."<br /> Frank Reed's face turned cold. "Wesley, you coward, thinking you can overturn the world? How dare you touch my mom? Just wait until I find you, you're finished."<br /> "We've found him. Wesley got into a taxi, and our boys followed him."<br /> "Let's go!" Frank waved his hand, leading dozens of men who boarded the car with harpoons, steel pipes, and other weapons.<br /> Inside the taxi, Wesley gazed at the scenery outside, feeling a strange sense of tranquility.<br /> He thought to himself, "I never imagined that while I was secretly paving the way for the Reed family, Taylor, after progressing so rapidly, would start looking down on me more and more."<br /> "Those ladies who know my true identity, which one of them isn't trying to throw themselves at me? Ladies like that don't interest me."<br /> "Being an ordinary gent is truly difficult," Wesley murmured, smiling faintly and deciding not to dwell on these matters anymore. He had important things to attend to and no time to waste on personal affairs.<br /> "Young lad, are you going to Feidgeuo Manor for a job interview?" The driver, curious about Wesley's destination, inquired.<br /> Feidgeuo Manor was Yeadeo's most mysterious private area. Originally a villa area, it was bought at a huge cost five years ago and completely renovated. It was said to have cost a trillion dollars. The former villa area was now Feidgeuo Manor.<br /> "That's my home," Wesley replied nonchalantly.<br /> The driver was taken aback by this revelation, silently cursing Wesley for bragging. After a couple of minutes, the driver regained his composure. "It seems like you and I both prefer to keep a low profile. My car usually gathers dust at home, so I occasionally drive a taxi to experience life."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "My car has been driven by my assistant for the past few years, so it's not gathering dust."<br /> "Haha..." The driver laughed. "We should get together sometime and see whose car is more impressive."<br /> "Sure, whenever we have the time."<br /> As they chatted, the vehicle soon arrived near Feidgeuo Manor, where the massive head of the Feidgeuo Peak protruded, creating a unique landscape in Yeadeo.<br /> The driver asked with a smile, "Since you're the owner here, it's fine if I drive in, right?"<br /> "Of course," Wesley replied.<br /> As soon as Wesley spoke, several cars caught up from behind.<br /> The cars surrounded the one Wesley was in, with the front vehicles braking to force the car to a stop.<br /> When numerous people descended from cars wielding harpoons and steel pipes, the driver's face paled.<br /> Frank and his group got out of the cars, instantly closing in, and without hesitation, started attacking, the steel pipes and harpoons thudding against the car.<br /> Frank's henchman yanked open the door of Wesley's car, poised to stab Wesley with a harpoon, but Wesley swiftly exited the vehicle.<br /> With a firm step on the ground, he launched a swift hit.<br /> A muffled sound echoed as the henchman was hit away.<br /> "What are you looking at?" Frank noticed his henchmen were all staring at him. "All of you, attack together and take him down!"<br /> As he commanded, the henchmen Frank brought with him surged forward.<br /> The taxi driver, trembling, took out his phone to call the police, but Frank glared at him. "I am Frank Reed from Yeadeo Harbor. If you dare, go ahead and make that call."<br /> Frank, leveraging his sister Taylor's status, had been causing trouble in Yeadeo Harbor, and no one dared to provoke him.<br /> Upon hearing Frank's name, the driver hastily put away his phone. "Mr. Reed, I'll just check the time, you guys continue."<br /> "Huh!" Frank snorted coldly, casting his gaze towards the surrounded Wesley.<br /> The sounds of thuds continued to ring out incessantly. Because Wesley was completely surrounded, Frank was unable to see the situation inside clearly, but he could imagine it. After all, in Frank's mind, the henchmen under his command were not to be trifled with.<br /> "Hit him hard for me!"<br /> Another muffled sound and a figure flew out. At that moment, Frank finally saw the situation clearly, and his face turned pale.<br /> Frank knew that Wesley liked to practice martial arts, but he had never expected Wesley to be this skilled. It wasn't Wesley who had been beaten, but his own men by Wesley alone.<br /> Frantically, Frank turned and ran to retrieve a crossbow from the car.<br /> "Clear the way." Frank bellowed, aiming the crossbow at Wesley.<br /> "You scumbag, you think you can fight? Move one more time, and I'll end your life! Surrender!"<br /> Wesley, holding a wooden box, stared at Frank. Ignoring the crossbow in his hand, Wesley said, "Tell your henchmen to back off, or you'll all see the light from above!"<br /> "You're really good at pretending to be tough." Frank took two steps forward. "See the light? Move a muscle and see if I can end your life or not! If you don't have the guts, apologize now!"<br /> Wesley turned his head and looked at the approaching cars, with two expensive ones in the lead, two more in the rear, and another one in the middle.<br /> "Keep acting tough, and I'll put a hole in your head." Frank spoke while glancing at the five cars. "What, looking for help?"<br /> "Let me tell you, those who ride in these cars are not the kind of weaklings like you who rely on connections. With me here, in Yeadeo's social hierarchy, even those who ride in such cars wouldn't dare meddle in this matter. And let me make it clear, without my sister, you're nothing."<br /> <br /> Chapter 4<br /> As Frank's words faded, the five cars came to a halt.<br /> A bodyguard opened the door of the one in the middle, revealing a dazzling pair of shining shoes catching everyone's eye.<br /> The shining shoe encased a beautiful foot. Above, the skirt's hem was adorned with lace.<br /> Then, like a fairy stepping out of a painting, she appeared before everyone's eyes.<br /> The lady was beautiful!<br /> Frank was mesmerized. Ever since the Reed family rose to prominence, he had been surrounded by ladies, but compared to the elegant lady before him, they were worlds apart.<br /> It wasn't just a difference in appearance but an incomparable gap in demeanor.<br /> The lady descending from the Maybach seemed like a celestial being untouched by mortal affairs.<br /> The embodiment of a fairy in the mundane world.<br /> She simply stood there after getting out of the car, perfectly embodying what it meant to be graceful and elegant.<br /> The lady glanced at Wesley, then at Frank.<br /> Frank grinned, saying, "May I have the honor of knowing the name of this esteemed lady? I am Frank..."<br /> The lady spoke calmly. "Disrespect Mr. Harrington, and you're done for."<br /> Her bodyguards, unfazed by Frank's crossbow, swiftly overwhelmed him, sending him crashing to the ground.<br /> The henchmen who had come with Frank, previously defeated by Wesley, now scrambled to their feet and fled in all directions.<br /> Who would dare provoke someone who could afford such a car?<br /> "My sister is Taylor Reed, the chairperson of Reed Group," Frank shouted, clutching his head.<br /> Ignoring him, one of the bodyguards dragged him to the roadside grass while another used a belt to tighten around Frank's neck, exerting pressure.<br /> "Enough, a lesson is all that's needed." Wesley spoke calmly, and only when the lady gestured did the bodyguards release Frank.<br /> Frank lay there, already unconscious.<br /> Wesley turned to the lady. "Who are you?"<br /> "I am Mia Roberts, the general manager of Vinver Business Alliance's Yeadeo branch." She looked at Wesley and continued, "Mr. Harrington, my father mentioned that you have miraculous healing skills and earnestly requested your assistance. A generous reward awaits."<br /> Wesley furrowed his brow slightly, thinking, "There are indeed people who recognize my abilities and status, yet I've rarely intervened in the past five years. Today, shortly after I divorced Taylor, she is here. Whose arrangement is this?"<br /> "Mr. Harrington, my father also mentioned that you are benevolent and has raised the banner of compassion among healers, serving as a role model and benchmark for all in the medical field."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "You have a way with words. Tell me the specifics."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, please get in the car first. I will explain in detail on the way."<br /> The phrase "compassionate healer" held significant weight for Wesley, who had saved countless lives from the brink of death.<br /> Without further ado, he got into the car.<br /> Inside, after Mia brewed coffee for Wesley, she began. "Vinver Business Alliance has a wide range of business operations, and I mainly oversee the health supplement sector, which has seen some success in recent years.<br /> "Recently, Quinn Kingsley started using our medicines, and now there's an accident."<br /> As she spoke, Mia kept her gaze fixed on Wesley.<br /> Quinn, the undisputed leader of Yeadeo, was a figure of immense influence.<br /> Upon hearing this name, Wesley showed no particular reaction. "If the city's leader faces issues with your products, it is indeed a concern. Let's go and see."<br /> With just a sentence, Wesley leaned back in his seat, closing his eyes to rest.<br /> Mia was secretly alarmed, thinking, "He knows who Quinn is, yet he seems indifferent. Who is this Wesley, really? No wonder Dad has instructed me to find a way to win his favor." Mia's inner resistance toward Wesley quietly shifted.<br /> Wesley had piqued her curiosity.<br /> As the vehicle was moving, Wesley's phone rang.<br /> Wesley opened his eyes and took out his phone to see Taylor calling.<br /> Pressing the answer button, he asked, "What's the matter?"<br /> On the other end of the line, Taylor, driving towards Feidgeuo Manor, had a grim expression.<br /> She thought, "Has Wesley ever spoken to me in such a cold tone before? Is he really this heartless right after our divorce?"<br /> Already furious, she snapped. "Wesley, do you even consider yourself a human being?<br /> "Today, not only did you lay hands on my mother, but you also had someone attack my brother. Do you not remember our past at all?"<br /> Wesley calmly replied, "Do we have a past to remember?"<br /> "You truly are a heartless scumbag, just as my mother said. You are an ungrateful and vicious person I raised for five years. Even a pet would wag its tail at me!"<br /> Taylor wanted to continue her tirade, but the phone line had already turned busy.<br /> This only fueled her anger further.<br /> Just now, she had received a call from Frank's underlings, informing her that Wesley had sent people to attack Frank and even intended to end him.<br /> Taylor wanted to demand answers, but...<br /> As Taylor was clutching her fists, her gaze turned icy.<br /> After a moment, she picked up her phone again. "Wesley, you are so narrow-minded. You have no ambition. Any lady would steer clear of you."<br /> "Just because I dumped you, you are doing this on purpose to make me feel sick. Pretending to be aloof and seeking revenge? Do you even deserve it?"<br /> "In Yeadeo, squashing you would be as easy as squashing an ant. You're asking for it! If anything happens to my brother, I will make you wish you were ending!"<br /> Her furious voice message echoed in the car.<br /> Wesley chuckled and put away his phone.<br /> Beside him, Mia seemed contemplative. Before coming, she had already ordered a swift investigation into Wesley.<br /> She was curious, thinking, "How could someone valued by my father could be the one 'marrying into' the Reed family."<br /> Being tactful, Mia chose not to ask and pretended not to have heard.<br /> After about forty minutes, they arrived at the Kingsley Manor.<br /> The Kingsley family members, upon seeing Mia alight from the car, all wore grim expressions.<br /> Mia greeted them with a smile, "Everyone, this is Wesley Harrington, Mr. Harrington, the miraculous healer I specially invited to treat Mr. Kingsley."<br /> "Him? The gent who married into the Reed family?"<br /> "A miraculous healer? Is he even worthy? Are healers so worthless now?"<br /> "A useless gent who mooches off of the Reed family? How dare he call himself a miraculous healer? Truly a joke among all jokes."<br /> Chapter 5<br /> <br /> Amanda Kingsley, Quinn's granddaughter, stared coldly at Wesley and Mia.<br /> This lady, dressed in a smart suit, also held significant fame in Yeadeo, overseeing the region's business activities, including investment attraction and various local business negotiations.<br /> Amanda had a favorable view of Taylor, who had risen swiftly in recent times, and they had interacted frequently.<br /> She was aware of Wesley's existence and had advised Taylor to part ways with him early on.<br /> But Amanda never imagined that Mia would bring someone like Wesley, a complete waste, and claim he was a miraculous healer.<br /> Glaring at Mia, she said, "Mia, once my grandfather is well, it's best for your Roberts family to leave Yeadeo."<br /> "As for you..." She glanced at Wesley. "I will advise Taylor to divorce you. You have deceived Taylor's feelings and now shamelessly made your way into my family. You are a despicable creature."<br /> After reprimanding Mia and Wesley, she turned to an elderly gent beside her, and her tone and attitude completely changed. "Mr. Phillips, sorry to trouble you. My grandfather is inside, please."<br /> Mia looked at the elderly gent, who was already in his twilight years, feeling deeply shocked.<br /> Scott Phillips, the 38th generation heir of the Healing Clinic, was now ninety-two years old.<br /> Renowned as a miraculous healer, he was a respected figure in the medical community of Yeadeo and even nationally.<br /> He no longer conducted consultations personally due to his old age. Mia had visited him specifically to pay her respects once she had arrived in Yeadeo but had not met Scott.<br /> She never expected Scott to appear in person. It was understandable, as Quinn held a prominent position in the city. Despite the profound influence of the Phillips family, they still had to show respect to Quinn.<br /> Mia looked at Wesley, feeling conflicted and thinking, "Dad has confidently claimed that Wesley has extraordinary abilities, but does he really?"<br /> She harbored doubts, but out of propriety, Mia spoke. "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the trouble."<br /> Wesley smiled, "It's fine. As long as the person can be healed."<br /> His open-mindedness impressed Mia.<br /> After about half an hour, Amanda emerged from the room. All eyes instantly turned towards her.<br /> It was evident that Amanda had wailed out, with traces of tears still visible.<br /> "Amanda, how is it?" A middle-aged gent anxiously asked her.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family who had rushed back also focused their attention on her.<br /> "Mr. Phillips said that there's little hope of recovery. He could only use acupuncture to wake grandfather for half an hour. When grandfather wakes up, let's all go in and see if he has any final instructions."<br /> Everyone was shocked.<br /> "How could this be?"<br /> "Is Mr. Phillips also helpless?"<br /> The members of the Kingsley family found it hard to accept this reality, especially since Quinn had always treated his juniors well.<br /> The thought of Quinn departing saddened some, and tears silently fell.<br /> Publicly, Quinn's status was the foundation of the Kingsley family's prominence in Yeadeo.<br /> If Quinn were to pass away, the Kingsley family would undoubtedly decline.<br /> The atmosphere within the Kingsley family was somber.<br /> Amanda looked at her family members, opened her mouth, but said nothing, silently turning back into the room.<br /> "Stop crying," A middle-aged gent said sternly, "Dad wouldn't want to see you all in tears. If he's really leaving, we mustn't let him worry about us. Pull yourselves together."<br /> After these words, the middle-aged gent also entered the room.<br /> The younger members of the Kingsley family wiped their tears vigorously, trying to force smiles, but in truth, they looked better at crying than pretending to be happy.<br /> Mia's spirit plummeted as she realized the gravity of the situation. Even if an ordinary person passed away from consuming health supplements, it spelled big trouble for those who sold them. And when the deceased happened to be Quinn, the stakes were even higher.<br /> She understood that it would be difficult for this branch to stay in Yeadeo, and even the headquarters might face repercussions.<br /> "Let's go in and have a look." Wesley glanced at Mia. "There might still be a chance."<br /> "Ah..." Mia stared at Wesley in surprise. Seeing him already heading towards the room, she quickly followed suit.<br /> Inside the room, the members of the Kingsley family stood around the mattress, maintaining a certain distance.<br /> Scott lit the alcohol lamp and took out the needles, his expression solemn.<br /> He looked at the members of the Kingsley family. "Think about what you want to say to Mr. Kingsley later. Once you're ready, let me know, and then I'll proceed with the acupuncture."<br /> As he said this, tears welled up in many eyes.<br /> "If you don't mind, let me take a look. I have a way." Wesley spoke up, drawing everyone's attention.<br /> Amanda's face darkened. "Who let you in? Get out!"<br /> "Mia, have you lost your mind? Tricked by this trash and actually brought him here as a miracle healer. Get out with him! I'll settle the score with you in a couple of days."<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, at a loss for words.<br /> "Even Mr. Phillips is unable to reverse the situation. What use are you? Get out." Another younger member of the Kingsley family angrily rebuked.<br /> The middle-aged gent added, "We're in no mood right now. You better leave immediately."<br /> "I understand your narrow-mindedness," Wesley continued, "But as a healer, once I see a patient, I cannot stand by and watch him draw his last breath."<br /> "Wesley, you're quite the charlatan. Do you really want to be gone right now?" Amanda's voice was filled with anger.<br /> "Amanda, let me say a few words," Scott interjected, and Amanda fell silent.<br /> Looking at Wesley, Scott began. "Young lad, at my age, I've seen a lot and have a broad perspective. Today, however, I find it hard to remain indifferent. I practiced medicine from the age of sixteen until I stopped seeing patients for a total of seventy years."<br /> "I've saved countless patients from various illnesses. I never easily declare a patient's fate, nor do I believe I have the right to do so."<br /> "But from your recent remarks, it seems like you're accusing me of such actions. Young people wanting to make a name for themselves by stepping on the shoulders of their predecessors, I can understand."<br /> "But this kind of behavior displeases me."<br /> "My displeasure, what does it mean to you? Do you understand?"<br /> "Even if you are a healer, your career will be ruined because of this."<br /> Chapter 6 <br /> In the face of Scott's veiled threats, Wesley simply smiled and brushed them off.<br /> Looking at Scott, he asked, "I've always focused on the issue at hand rather than attacking individuals. I have a few questions for you. If you can't administer the needles, how long do you think Quinn can hold on?"<br /> "Seven days, but he will remain unconscious," Scott replied bluntly.<br /> "Then let me ask you this, is there anyone in the world with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "Outrageous," Amanda coldly interjected, "Mr. Phillips is unparalleled in his medical expertise."<br /> Scott glanced at Amanda. "Amanda, let me handle this question."<br /> Continuing to address Wesley, he said, "I don't underestimate myself, nor do I overestimate. There are countless talented individuals in the world, like stars in the sky. I may not dare claim to be the best in medical skills, but those who surpass me are few."<br /> "That means there are some," Wesley calmly remarked, causing Scott's expression to shift slightly, "Indeed, there are."<br /> "Then let me ask you this. Do you think within seven days, the Kingsley family won't find someone with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "If they do find someone, do you believe there is an illness that you cannot cure, but this person can?"<br /> Wesley's questions were sharp and resounding.<br /> Scott's face changed once more as he was rendered speechless.<br /> "Even if there is, that person will never be you." Amanda's face turned icy. "Now get out. Don't spout your eloquence here. Your deceitful behavior is repulsive."<br /> "Your understanding of me is merely hearsay, isn't it?" Wesley retorted, his gaze mocking Amanda, "Has your background and education taught you such arrogance and prejudice?"<br /> "Arrogance?" Amanda's face grew colder as she disdainfully looked at Wesley. "Prejudice?<br /> "Did I say something wrong just now? You are nothing but stagnant waste, a parasite living off others. If it weren't for Taylor, you would have starved on the streets long ago."<br /> "Relying on sweet words, deceiving Taylor. She, with her kind heart, can't bear to divorce you, but don't push your luck. If it weren't for Taylor's sake, you would have been sent out long ago."<br /> Scott interrupted Amanda, "Amanda, although I find this lad a bit annoying, what he said does hold some truth. There are indeed individuals with better medical skills than me. Your grandfather can hold on for seven days. Try reaching out to see if someone can come over. I'll help you make connections."<br /> "If it really doesn't work out after seven days, I'll administer the needles to your grandfather. However, at that point, I can only buy you three minutes."<br /> As soon as Scott spoke, the faces of the Kingsley family members grew even more solemn. True healers were rare and not easily summoned.<br /> While the Kingsley family had connections in Yeadeo, their influence waned outside of it.<br /> "Mr. Phillips, please administer the needles. Life has its ups and downs, and we understand that. Just buy my father a bit more time." The middle-aged gent spoke up.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family nodded in agreement.<br /> Amanda looked at Scott. "Mr. Phillips, please."<br /> "In that case, please have everyone unrelated leave. I need silence," Scott calmly stated.<br /> Amanda glared at Wesley, her eyes speaking volumes without a word.<br /> The unrelated individuals were, naturally, Wesley and Mia.<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, intending to leave, but she suddenly hesitated.<br /> Instead of leaving, Wesley moved forward.<br /> "What are you doing?" A young member of the Kingsley family stepped forward with a stern expression, pushing Wesley.<br /> In one swift motion, Wesley executed a clean shoulder throw, toppling the young gent to the ground, his own expression turning cold.<br /> "A bunch of fools! If it weren't for my teacher's teachings about not turning a blind eye to those in need, I wouldn't bother with you ignorant lot," Wesley remarked with disdain.<br /> As Wesley effortlessly took down one individual from the Kingsley family, the others seemed slow to react.<br /> By the time they realized what was happening, Wesley had already picked up the needle next to Scott and casually flicked his wrist.<br /> The needle flew out of his hand, piercing Quinn's temple, followed by a second needle, a third needle, and so on.<br /> "What are you doing? Stop!" Amanda's voice rose in urgency, echoed by the rest of the Kingsley family members who rushed forward to restrain Wesley.<br /> "Stay back, everyone. Wait." Scott suddenly stood up, blocking the others. "Let him try."<br /> Amanda and the others were left dumbfounded, thinking, "What does this mean?"<br /> Despite their confusion, they heeded Scott's words.<br /> After Scott stopped the members of the Kingsley family, he fixed his gaze on Wesley.<br /> Wesley proceeded to use eighteen needles in succession, symbolizing the levels of pain.<br /> Even if someone had descended into the depths of hell, they must be brought back.<br /> The final needle, also piercing a vital point, caused Quinn's body to tremble suddenly, resonating with the previous eighteen needles.<br /> Scott's eyes widened, his body trembling slightly. His reaction left Amanda and the others even more puzzled, but none dared to interrupt.<br /> Moments later, Wesley placed a palm on Quinn's chest, causing all eighteen needles to be shaken off. When all the needles landed on the ground, the part of the skin where the needles had pierced turned dark.<br /> Wesley then dragged Quinn to the edge of the mattress, flipped him over with his head facing downwards, and gave him a firm pat on the back.<br /> Quinn spat out a mouthful of black liquid. When Wesley flipped him back to lie flat, his complexion had regained some color.<br /> "The Hand of Darkness... It's the Hand of Darkness!" Scott exclaimed with excitement, his body quivering, "It's the Hand that descends into the dark world, snatching people from the hands of the Evil!"<br /> "You do have some knowledge, recognizing the Hand of Darkness." Wesley glanced at Scott.<br /> Scott's gaze towards Wesley had undergone a drastic change. He respectfully clasped his hands together.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thirty years ago, I had the honor of attending a teaching conference held by Mr. Vanderbilt. I saw the Hand of Darkness, but my limited aptitude only allowed me to grasp the basics."<br /> "I have been blind and ignorant. I apologize for my earlier offenses. Please forgive me, Mr. Harrington."<br /> The Mr. Vanderbilt Scott referred to was Wesley's teacher, Ulysses Vanderbilt. He generously imparted his skills to others, but the ability to learn depended on one's innate talent.<br /> In this world, few could learn Ulysses' skills.<br /> Scott had been fortunate to receive guidance from Ulysses, which had elevated his medical skills. However, the Hand of Darkness, a miraculous ability, was beyond his comprehension.<br /> Wesley smiled faintly, "Your actions earlier are understandable. I appreciate your words."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you must be an exceptional disciple of Mr. Vanderbilt, possessing unparalleled magnanimity. Impressive," Scott continued.<br /> "Enough with the flattery at your age."<br /> "You are mistaken, Mr. Harrington. Every word I speak is sincere."<br /> Mia, Amanda, and the others stood bewildered by the unfolding situation.<br /> "Mr. Phillips... he... he..." Amanda's words faltered.<br /> Scott turned to the members of the Kingsley family. "Meeting Mr. Harrington was Quinn's luck. His symptoms have been cured by Mr. Harrington. With a few days of rest, he will be fine."<br /> The waste Taylor had previously said was called Mr. Harrington by Scott!<br /> Recalling their previous attitudes, Amanda hurriedly apologized, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> The members of the Kingsley family all apologized in unison, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> Chapter 7 <br /> With a faint smile, Wesley remarked, "As family members of a patient, your actions earlier are understandable. There's no need for such formality."<br /> Amanda's perplexity deepened as she thought, "Where is the cowardly waste that Taylor described? This display of magnanimity and breadth is far from it."<br /> Mia, too, felt a shiver of realization, thinking, "No wonder Dad has insisted on my proximity to Wesley.<br /> This guy..."<br /> She gazed at Wesley, her curiosity piqued, a sense of exploration stirring within her.<br /> "Mia has brought you here, Mr. Harrington, to cure my grandfather. The Kingsley family will never forget this act. However, considering that my grandfather's ailment stemmed from the health supplements produced by the Vinver Business Alliance, we will be conducting an investigation into it."<br /> Amanda continued, looking at Wesley, "What do you think... of this approach?"<br /> It was Mia who had invited Wesley, so Amanda had grown wiser, refraining from asking for a direct punishment of the Vinver Business Alliance.<br /> As Mia heard Amanda's words, her heart skipped a beat, realizing trouble was brewing.<br /> "On the way here, Ms. Roberts briefed me on the situation. You conducted experiments on mice, correct?"<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes, the health supplements we received were exclusively provided by the Roberts family. There were no similar cases on the market, so we used mice for testing.<br /> "All the mice that ingested this supplement were gone."<br /> She looked at Mia and added, her voice turning colder, "Before the experiment, I specifically contacted Mia to inquire about the testing methods during the development phase, which involved mice.<br /> "There have been individuals eyeing my grandfather's position, some even wishing for his demise. I never imagined that the Vinver Business Alliance, which I attracted for investment, would become a weapon in someone else's hands."<br /> "Do you have any of the remaining medicine?" Wesley inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes."<br /> "Bring some over."<br /> Immediately, someone fetched the medicine. After it was brought to him, Wesley took out a supplement and swallowed it directly.<br /> This scene left Amanda and the others dumbfounded.<br /> Scott, too, was bewildered. "Mr. Harrington, what are you doing?"<br /> Wesley smiled, "Just proving that this medicine is not toxic."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thank you," Mia thanked sincerely, feeling like crying at that moment.<br /> Amanda, with a puzzled expression, looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, are you suggesting that my grandfather's condition wasn't caused by the Vinver Business Alliance's medicine? What about the mice?"<br /> The rest were equally puzzled.<br /> "Yes, but not entirely," Wesley said, leaving everyone even more bewildered.<br /> Mia's emotions were like a rollercoaster ride, from relief to immediate tension.<br /> "This medicine itself is not toxic, but when taken with another substance made from a certain plant, it results in Quinn's condition. The mice would die immediately, while humans could endure a few more days."<br /> Wesley continued to explain, "The plant used in this concoction is originally meant for crafting slow-acting toxins, not for human consumption."<br /> Looking at Amanda, Wesley said, "During this period, whoever had access to your grandfather and the mice will better understand why these events occurred."<br /> The gaze of members of the Kingsley family immediately focused on a lady.<br /> Amanda, somewhat incredulous, looked at her. "Can you offer an explanation?"<br /> The lady was the wife of Amanda's deceased brother. She found it hard to accept, as did the rest of the Kingsley family.<br /> This lady had been named the exemplary lady who served her family well this year, not due to her connection with the Kingsley family but because she genuinely deserved it.<br /> "What do you mean? Amanda, what explanation do you want from me?"<br /> The lady stared at Amanda. "Am I the only one who had access to Grandfather and the mice? You, and you... and you, who didn't have access?"<br /> "You all claim to treat me as family. Since I married into the Kingsley family, I have worked diligently, contributing my share even if not acknowledged."<br /> "Amanda, it has been over a year since your brother passed, and I never once considered remarrying. Now, just because of his words, you demand an explanation from me?"<br /> Pointing at Wesley, the lady questioned, "Just because he accuses me of poisoning, you suspect me? Tell me, did I poison him?" The lady glared at Wesley.<br /> "I am merely analyzing the facts. As for concluding this case, it's not within my purview," Wesley addressed the members of the Kingsley family, saying, "You should conduct a thorough investigation into this matter.<br /> "I will write a prescription. Have Quinn take it on time, and he will recover in seven days."<br /> Amanda hurried to fetch paper and pen while Wesley prepared the prescription. Once done, he was ready to leave.<br /> Amanda said hurriedly, "Mr. Harrington, I've already made arrangements for lunch."<br /> "No need," Wesley smiled.<br /> The Kingsley family sought to build closer ties with Wesley, given his extraordinary medical skills. Wesley was well aware of this.<br /> Looking at Amanda and the others, Wesley remarked, "In the future, if you encounter any difficult medical cases that others cannot solve, seek me out. Remember, cases others cannot solve."<br /> The gaze of the Kingsley family members toward Wesley changed once again. Many renowned healers had eccentric personalities and were difficult to engage.<br /> They hadn't expected Wesley to possess such remarkable medical skills without any airs.<br /> As Wesley prepared to depart, the members of the Kingsley family did not dare to insist on his stay, so they accompanied him outside.<br /> "Oh, how could we forget such an important matter? Amanda, what about the consultation fee?" The middle-aged gent inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the oversight. Please wait a moment." Amanda hurried back inside and soon returned with a bank card in hand.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, there's one million dollars in here."<br /> Without hesitation, Wesley accepted the bank card and boarded Mia's car.<br /> During the journey, Mia boldly looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, you've helped me immensely. Can I treat you to a meal? Don't decline in a hurry. It's not a fancy restaurant, but it will leave you wanting more. It's a small place on the street, with only eight plates of noodles served each day, each plate containing different ingredients.<br /> "I managed to secure a reservation. Are you interested?"<br /> Wesley thought, "Eight Plates of Noodles? Ah, Aaron's restaurant. It has been a while since I visited those old friends."<br /> Wesley nodded. "Let's go then."<br /> The restaurant, Eight Plates of Noodles, was located on Chanxold Street near the Yeadeo First Central Hospital.<br /> The establishment was small, serving only eight plates of noodles each day at a price of 10 thousand dollars each. Vernoic's television culinary program had specifically covered this incident.<br /> Reservations were a must to secure a plate.<br /> The restaurant's owner had a mysterious background. While the specifics were unknown, a high-ranking noble from the capital of Vernoic, Kingsland, had caused a scene there once.<br /> He had attempted to force his way in without a reservation. Although this incident hadn't been reported, rumors suggested that a garbage truck had to be called to dispose of the intruder's remains, as he was too shattered to be removed by conventional means.<br /> Since then, no one dared to cause trouble.<br /> On their way, Mia introduced Wesley to the background story.<br /> "Mr. Turner, two plates of noodles." Mia called out once they arrived.<br /> Aaron Turner didn't respond but visibly paused upon seeing Wesley beside Mia.<br /> A faint smile appeared on his usually stoic face. Though the flesh on the face seemed stiff, it was indeed a smile. "Coming right up."<br /> Mia glanced at Aaron with a hint of surprise, thinking, "When did he become so warm and enthusiastic? His tone seemed a bit agitated earlier, didn't it?"<br /> Soon enough, Aaron brought two plates of noodles to the table. One steaming hot and the other devoid of any warmth.<br /> As Mia observed Aaron placing the plate without steam in front of Wesley, her expression changed slightly.<br /> It was a plate of instant noodles having soaked in cold water, with the seasoning barely dissolved.<br /> She felt a sense of panic. Mia had wanted to leave a good impression on Wesley, which was why she had chosen this place.<br /> However, Aaron had served such a plate of noodles.<br /> She dared not question Aaron. The type of noodles served here was not determined by the guests but by Aaron's mood.<br /> "This girl named Mia is quite something, living up to her name, and quite kind-hearted," Aaron remarked, looking at Wesley.<br /> "Get lost," Wesley retorted, using his fork to pick up the noodles and devouring them.<br /> Mia's face turned pale instantly. Disrespecting Aaron was akin to risking Wesley's life.<br /> To her astonishment, Aaron chuckled, tears welling up in his eyes.<br /> He wiped them away. "Alright, I'll leave you to your meal."<br /> Before departing, he gave Mia a thumbs-up. "Seize the opportunity."<br /> The eight plates of noodles symbolized the eight comrades who had faced life and life-threatening situations together.<br /> Wesley ate voraciously. Initially, they had only one pack of instant noodles to share among the eight of them, forcing them to divide it.<br /> Despite the circumstances, they devoured the noodles joyfully.<br /> Aaron had promised that once they survived, each one would have the most delicious plate of noodles.<br /> However, five of the eight had perished.<br /> Wesley had come dangerously close to life-threatening situations, but managed to cling to life.<br /> For him, the plate of noodles was not food but the bond of friendship that had shielded him from harm.<br /> "Do you... know each other?" Mia couldn't help but ask, her voice low and curious.<br /> "Some things are better left unknown," Wesley replied.<br /> Mia nodded in understanding, falling silent as they continued eating noodles. She couldn't help stealing glances at Wesley throughout the meal.<br /> This gent had piqued her curiosity even more.<br /> "Wesley, I see. No wonder you agreed to the divorce so readily. You've already found someone else outside."<br /> A sharp voice interrupted their meal.<br /> Taylor approached with a cold expression, accompanied by Henry. | Adoread Romance story | 106 | https://facebook.com/61557113391558 | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1713250800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846729 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446608 | 1735168083 | 890 | 669264031952154 | 1 | 1.1260744351087E+15 | 1713942000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 235254296344339 | 0 | Adoread Romance story | 120207848351950113 | play.google.com | Install now | NONE | video | HOT BOOK✨Tap the button to read more👉 | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.adoread.book | 1713261152 | 2.3525429634434E+14 | Adoread Romance story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438691738_450415110690553_5210565945093228563_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=L6nDBvnsvOwQ7kNvgGe2l2x&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBjMC1D-FvvmGrOZmeUzl5CwLI3yq4SbHwsZpHlRPVbeg&oe=6663F20B | person_profile | 0 | Adoread Romance story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437075603_2113273012374428_5465097867245892083_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SQzlDL2nqC4Q7kNvgGQqTxT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYArSTw5Gdi1A4DgKudejAcsbU8iNC7GTUkzqk9ARBGuXQ&oe=66640FAC | 0 | 3 | Chapter 1 <br /> "Wesley, are you trying to harm me? You useless piece of trash, can't even make a decent cup of coffee, can you?"<br /> Madison Blair lifted her coffee cup and splashed it directly onto Wesley Harrington's face.<br /> "What are you looking at, you spineless waste? Your name sounds so lofty? I might as well call you a waste."<br /> Glancing at the grotesque expression of his wife's mother, Wesley pulled out his phone to check the time.<br /> Exactly twelve o'clock. It had been five full years since he married Taylor Reed.<br /> The appointed time had come.<br /> He had fulfilled his promise, safeguarding the Reed family for five years, transforming them from a family living off fishing to one perceived as affluent by the common folk.<br /> Wiping the coffee off his face, he turned and walked away.<br /> "Where do you think you're going? Go fetch some more coffee," Madison shouted.<br /> "Madison, didn't you say this waste is obedient at home, doing whatever he's told? I don't think he's taking it lying down."<br /> Madison grew angrier. "Wesley, you stop right there. My family has fed and housed you. If you dare disobey, I'll have you thrown out!"<br /> Ignoring her, Wesley continued downstairs.<br /> "When Taylor comes back, I'll immediately have you two divorced. Do you hear me? Stay right there," Madison threatened, "I'll let you know your place today."<br /> Grabbing a golf club, Madison swiftly charged towards Wesley.<br /> Seeing Wesley heading downstairs, she swung the club viciously at his back.<br /> Without turning back, Wesley gently sidestepped.<br /> Losing her balance, Madison tumbled forward, rolling down the stairs with a series of thumps.<br /> "Ouch... it hurts, it hurts so much!"<br /> As Madison reached the ground floor, she wailed in pain and her sister immediately rushed to her.<br /> "Wesley, what have you done? How dare you hit my sister!" Madison's sister hurried down, checking on Madison's condition.<br /> Wesley remained silent, observing the scene.<br /> "Quick, call Taylor. Tell her to come back. Today, she must divorce this waste." Madison glared at Wesley. "How dare you hit me? Not only will I let Taylor divorce you, but I'll make sure you leave in disgrace."<br /> "Mum, what's wrong?" At that moment, a gent and a lady walked in.<br /> The lady was Taylor, Madison's daughter.<br /> She ran towards Madison.<br /> As Madison pointed at Wesley, tears streamed down her face. "Taylor, he hit me, he hit me! When you're not home, he changes his attitude, scolding and hitting me in the slightest displeasure. He even pushed me down the stairs just now. Alexis can testify."<br /> Madison's sister, Alexis Blair, chimed in. "Yes, Wesley, this trash not only hit your mother but also threatened to hit me too. We cannot tolerate such trash."<br /> "Taylor, I have been telling you to divorce him for years. You've been supporting him, treating him like a Lord at home, but he's an ungrateful wolf in sheep's clothing."<br /> Helping Madison up, Taylor noticed the scrapes on Madison's arms and legs, her expression turning cold.<br /> "Wesley, why did you hit my mother? You better give me an explanation."<br /> Wesley looked at Taylor, his wife.<br /> Five years had passed, and she had never shown him kindness.<br /> Taylor dressed impeccably, a paragon of a successful lady, with a face that could be deemed angelic, yet whether her heart was as angelic remained a mystery.<br /> Her figure, too, left countless men yearning.<br /> For five years, Wesley had thought he might develop feelings for this lady, but in reality, it never happened.<br /> "There are surveillance cameras in the house," Wesley stated calmly before descending the stairs into the hallway.<br /> Despite residing in a three-story villa, Wesley's living quarters were confined to the stairwell.<br /> He harbored no resentment towards this arrangement. It was merely a promise. It was just that Taylor failed to appreciate him.<br /> This home held little value that he wished to cling onto.<br /> Retrieving a wooden box from beneath his pillow, Wesley extracted two documents. Casting a fleeting glance at the modest abode he had called home for five years, Wesley smiled faintly.<br /> He thought, "Finally... I'm free."<br /> Pushing the door ajar, Wesley was met by Taylor's piercing gaze. "I've reviewed the surveillance footage. Yes, my mother intended to strike you, but even if she did, what difference would it make?"<br /> "She's a lady. How much could her blows hurt you? Why did you dodge?"<br /> "If you hadn't dodged, my mother wouldn't have tumbled down." Wesley stared at Taylor, unable to comprehend her thought process.<br /> He had no interest in engaging in these arguments. Handing over the two documents to Taylor, he remarked, "The divorce agreement. I've already signed it. Take a look. I'm leaving with nothing."<br /> "With your current influence, there's no need for you to visit the city hall. Someone will handle it for you, right?"<br /> Madison was taken aback. She swiftly snatched the divorce agreement, flipping through it hastily.<br /> The contents were indeed straightforward. Both parties willingly divorced, with Wesley relinquishing all claims and having already signed.<br /> In an instant, Madison's pain seemed to dissipate. "Taylor, sign it quickly. Sign it."<br /> Taylor was still in a daze.<br /> She pondered.<br /> "A divorce agreement? Wesley has already prepared a divorce agreement. On what grounds?"<br /> "What gives him the right to initiate a divorce? All these years, he's done nothing at home, lacking any ambition. Always practicing martial arts, what right does he have to seek a divorce?"<br /> "If anyone should initiate it, it should be me. Moreover, now that I'm back to discussing this matter with him. Could it be that word got out, and Wesley, for the sake of his pride, rushed to prepare a divorce agreement first?"<br /> "It must be so, but... No!"<br /> "Wanting to leave with nothing, is he retreating to advance? As the chairman of the Reed Group, how could I be served with a divorce?"<br /> "Hey Wesley, I never expected this from you. Have I not treated you well enough? You seek a divorce, attempting to turn your retreat into advance, aiming to embarrass me?"<br /> Taylor glared at Wesley. "I'm telling you, it's impossible."<br /> Snatching the divorce agreement, she tore it to shreds.<br /> "Taylor, what are you doing? Such a great opportunity. Why not just sign it and let him leave?" Madison grew anxious.<br /> "Mom, I do intend to divorce this trash, but the decision must come from me. I returned specifically to address this matter."<br /> With that, Taylor produced two documents. "Wesley, remember that it's me who's divorcing you. It's me who no longer wants you. Initially, out of marital obligation, I had considered offering you some compensation. Now, you don't even need to think about it. Sign the divorce agreement and leave my home."<br /> Wesley offered a faint smile as he accepted the divorce agreement.<br /> "What are you laughing at?" Taylor demanded angrily.<br /> Wesley's smile seemed to mock her, fueling her rage.<br /> Ignoring her entirely, Wesley signed the document and handed it over.<br /> "What are you laughing at? Answer me! Who do you think you are?" Taylor roared once more.<br /> Wesley glanced at her before striding towards the exit.<br /> "Stop!" The gent who had accompanied Taylor stepped forward, blocking Wesley's path. "Taylor asked you a question, and... Your previous attitude displeased me. Apologize to Taylor, or I'll have you leave in disgrace!"<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 <br /> "Yes, let him leave in disgrace. He thought he could just hit me and walk away so easily," Madison joined in the commotion, also noticing the gent blocking Wesley's path.<br /> Madison had a keen interest in luxury goods, having frequented various high-end establishments over the years as the Reed family's living conditions improved. The gent was wearing an expensive watch and dressed head to toe in high-end luxury brands.<br /> Seeing Madison's gaze, the gent spoke. "Rest assured, today Wesley must pay the price."<br /> The gent introduced himself, looking at Wesley, "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Henry Clark, the eldest son of the Clark family and the general manager of the Clark Group in the North District."<br /> "From now on, I will accompany Taylor on her journey of life, and I will not allow anyone to bully her."<br /> "My identity carries weight. You should understand that. Now, apologize to Taylor. Apologize! Did you hear me? Apologize!"<br /> Madison's eyes lit up. She hadn't expected the gent before her to hold such a high status. She continued to shout, "Did you hear that? Taylor will be with Mr. Clark from now on. Apologize now."<br /> Wesley glanced at Henry, then at Taylor. He thought, "Have they been together all along?" Wesley had wanted to ask but decided against it because there was no need. He simply gave them a glance and continued walking towards the exit.<br /> "Are you ignoring me?" Henry's face turned cold as he reached out to grab Wesley. Henry's hand froze mid-air as he received a solid hit.<br /> "Until I sign the divorce papers, Taylor and I are still wife and husband. I don't care to investigate whether you two had any intimate relationship during that time, but don't provoke me, or I won't hesitate to make you regret it." Wesley's gaze was icy, and as Henry met his eyes, he felt a twinge of fear and swallowed his words.<br /> Taylor was also stunned. She knew exactly what Wesley had been like over the past five years. There were many surveillance cameras in the house, and she would often check them.<br /> Even when Taylor wasn't home, despite how her family treated Wesley, he always obeyed without complaint, especially towards her. He had never raised his voice, no matter how they treated him.<br /> Today, not only did Wesley dodge when her mother struck, but he also initiated the divorce and now even struck Henry. <br /> Taylor was at a loss for words, thinking, "How could this cowardly gent dare? On what grounds does he dare?"<br /> This change was difficult for Taylor to accept as if she didn't truly understand this guy. The gent who used to be obedient to her, completely submissive, now revealed this side of himself. She watched Wesley walk away in a daze, feeling a strange discomfort in her heart.<br /> "Isn't he leaving with nothing?" Alexis pointed at the wooden box Wesley was holding. "What is he taking with him?"<br /> Madison also realized. Over the past five years, Wesley had always treasured this wooden box, carrying it with him wherever he went. She thought there must be something valuable inside.<br /> Realizing this, Madison hurriedly followed. "Wesley, stop right there, leave the wooden box."<br /> Wesley paused, glanced at Madison, and said, "This is my personal belonging."<br /> "Nonsense, what personal belonging could you possibly have after marrying into the Reed family? Everything you've eaten, worn, and lived in over the years has been provided by the Reed family. Put it down."<br /> As she spoke, Madison reached out to grab the wooden box.<br /> "Ah..." A scream rang out as Madison quickly retracted her hand, a gash appearing on her palm, a crimson liquid dripping.<br /> The wooden box was now stained with the same crimson liquid, trembling lightly in Wesley's hand.<br /> "It's not the right time yet, the day you thirst for this crimson liquid will come," Wesley murmured softly, patting the box before turning to continue his stride towards the exit.<br /> "Monster! A monster!" Madison screamed, causing Taylor and the others to rush out. Seeing the wound in Madison's hand, Taylor was filled with rage.<br /> "Wesley, aren't you going to say something?" Wesley halted once more, contemplating before meeting Taylor's gaze.<br /> "Just stay out of my way from now on. Consider this a warning to you."<br /> "Taylor, that wooden box of his has a mechanism. It must hold something valuable! We can't let him take it with him," Madison, enduring the pain, reminded them.<br /> "Mom, your injury is important. We'll deal with him later. Let me take you to the hospital first." Taylor comforted Madison before calling out to the retreating Wesley.<br /> "Our marriage is over! Yet, you dared to hurt my mother! This won't be the end of it! I will make you regret it!" Ignoring her, Wesley continued walking out.<br /> "Rest assured, I promise he won't see the light of day tomorrow." Henry stepped forward to console. "Let's focus on getting your wound treated first."<br /> "I want him to regret ever existing in this world, to apologize to me in repentance," Madison roared.<br /> "Mom, trust me, I will make him do just that." Taylor looked at Madison with a mix of pity and determination. "Let's go to the hospital first."<br /> In the villa area, Wesley halted, his voice cold. "Get out."<br /> An elderly gent leaped down from a tree, appearing to be in his seventies, yet landing silently from a height of around ten feet.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, your father wants you to come home and take charge."<br /> "He stopped being my father five years ago. He's my enemy."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you misunderstood your father. He had his reasons back then. I swear in my life, once you know the truth, you will forgive him."<br /> "Huh!" Wesley smirked coldly, saying, "I nearly passed away back then. Is that also a misunderstanding?"<br /> The old gent pleaded, "Mr. Harrington, this situation is truly not as you perceive it."<br /> Wesley didn't engage further with the old guy. The events of that year were etched in his memory forever. He was the one who had been abandoned. If not for that incident, why would he have stayed with the Reed family for five years?<br /> Watching Wesley walk away, the old gent had tears silently streaming down his face. "Mr. Harrington, I truly... I truly can't bring myself to speak the truth, but you have misunderstood your father. He also bears burdens and endures pains beyond what an ordinary person can handle."<br /> As Wesley's figure disappeared, the old gent stood up, hesitated for a moment, then dialed a number on his phone.<br /> "Mr. Harrington is now divorced. I've given you the news firsthand. If your daughter is truly together with Mr. Harrington, you must fulfill the promise and let her persuade Mr. Harrington to come home."<br /> After hanging up, a middle-aged gent in a luxurious estate jumped up excitedly. Calming himself, he immediately made another call. "My dear, you're at Yeadeo, right?<br /> "Go find Wesley now. Don't mention the engagement for now. Use every means to get close to him, make him fall in love with you."<br /> "Dad, I don't have time."<br /> "No matter what you are busy with, you must go find Wesley now. No matter what reason you approach him, you must leave a good impression the first time."<br /> "Dad, I'm in trouble right now. If I don't handle it well, I might be good as gone. I have to deal with it immediately. I'm hanging up."<br /> Chapter 3 <br /> The middle-aged gent's voice lowered significantly. "Is there a big incident happening? You didn't tell me? What happened?"<br /> "Quinn Kingsley from Yeadeo, Mr. Kingsley, used our product and now has one foot on the grave. If something really happens to him..."<br /> "You mean Quinn, the uncontested leader of Yeadeo?"<br /> "Yes."<br /> "In that case, you should go find Wesley. Trust me, in this world, there is no problem that Wesley can't solve. As long as he's willing to help, you'll be fine. Listen to me, go find Wesley immediately."<br /> The lady fell silent for a moment before saying, "Okay."<br /> At Yeadeo Harbor, a gent with a large flaxen chain and a watch, sporting a crew cut, hurriedly disembarked, accompanied by a dozen gentlemen.<br /> "Mr. Reed, wherever that trash is, we will find him and tear him apart."<br /> "Yes, that guy dared to harm your mother. We'll make sure he pays for it."<br /> Frank Reed's face turned cold. "Wesley, you coward, thinking you can overturn the world? How dare you touch my mom? Just wait until I find you, you're finished."<br /> "We've found him. Wesley got into a taxi, and our boys followed him."<br /> "Let's go!" Frank waved his hand, leading dozens of men who boarded the car with harpoons, steel pipes, and other weapons.<br /> Inside the taxi, Wesley gazed at the scenery outside, feeling a strange sense of tranquility.<br /> He thought to himself, "I never imagined that while I was secretly paving the way for the Reed family, Taylor, after progressing so rapidly, would start looking down on me more and more."<br /> "Those ladies who know my true identity, which one of them isn't trying to throw themselves at me? Ladies like that don't interest me."<br /> "Being an ordinary gent is truly difficult," Wesley murmured, smiling faintly and deciding not to dwell on these matters anymore. He had important things to attend to and no time to waste on personal affairs.<br /> "Young lad, are you going to Feidgeuo Manor for a job interview?" The driver, curious about Wesley's destination, inquired.<br /> Feidgeuo Manor was Yeadeo's most mysterious private area. Originally a villa area, it was bought at a huge cost five years ago and completely renovated. It was said to have cost a trillion dollars. The former villa area was now Feidgeuo Manor.<br /> "That's my home," Wesley replied nonchalantly.<br /> The driver was taken aback by this revelation, silently cursing Wesley for bragging. After a couple of minutes, the driver regained his composure. "It seems like you and I both prefer to keep a low profile. My car usually gathers dust at home, so I occasionally drive a taxi to experience life."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "My car has been driven by my assistant for the past few years, so it's not gathering dust."<br /> "Haha..." The driver laughed. "We should get together sometime and see whose car is more impressive."<br /> "Sure, whenever we have the time."<br /> As they chatted, the vehicle soon arrived near Feidgeuo Manor, where the massive head of the Feidgeuo Peak protruded, creating a unique landscape in Yeadeo.<br /> The driver asked with a smile, "Since you're the owner here, it's fine if I drive in, right?"<br /> "Of course," Wesley replied.<br /> As soon as Wesley spoke, several cars caught up from behind.<br /> The cars surrounded the one Wesley was in, with the front vehicles braking to force the car to a stop.<br /> When numerous people descended from cars wielding harpoons and steel pipes, the driver's face paled.<br /> Frank and his group got out of the cars, instantly closing in, and without hesitation, started attacking, the steel pipes and harpoons thudding against the car.<br /> Frank's henchman yanked open the door of Wesley's car, poised to stab Wesley with a harpoon, but Wesley swiftly exited the vehicle.<br /> With a firm step on the ground, he launched a swift hit.<br /> A muffled sound echoed as the henchman was hit away.<br /> "What are you looking at?" Frank noticed his henchmen were all staring at him. "All of you, attack together and take him down!"<br /> As he commanded, the henchmen Frank brought with him surged forward.<br /> The taxi driver, trembling, took out his phone to call the police, but Frank glared at him. "I am Frank Reed from Yeadeo Harbor. If you dare, go ahead and make that call."<br /> Frank, leveraging his sister Taylor's status, had been causing trouble in Yeadeo Harbor, and no one dared to provoke him.<br /> Upon hearing Frank's name, the driver hastily put away his phone. "Mr. Reed, I'll just check the time, you guys continue."<br /> "Huh!" Frank snorted coldly, casting his gaze towards the surrounded Wesley.<br /> The sounds of thuds continued to ring out incessantly. Because Wesley was completely surrounded, Frank was unable to see the situation inside clearly, but he could imagine it. After all, in Frank's mind, the henchmen under his command were not to be trifled with.<br /> "Hit him hard for me!"<br /> Another muffled sound and a figure flew out. At that moment, Frank finally saw the situation clearly, and his face turned pale.<br /> Frank knew that Wesley liked to practice martial arts, but he had never expected Wesley to be this skilled. It wasn't Wesley who had been beaten, but his own men by Wesley alone.<br /> Frantically, Frank turned and ran to retrieve a crossbow from the car.<br /> "Clear the way." Frank bellowed, aiming the crossbow at Wesley.<br /> "You scumbag, you think you can fight? Move one more time, and I'll end your life! Surrender!"<br /> Wesley, holding a wooden box, stared at Frank. Ignoring the crossbow in his hand, Wesley said, "Tell your henchmen to back off, or you'll all see the light from above!"<br /> "You're really good at pretending to be tough." Frank took two steps forward. "See the light? Move a muscle and see if I can end your life or not! If you don't have the guts, apologize now!"<br /> Wesley turned his head and looked at the approaching cars, with two expensive ones in the lead, two more in the rear, and another one in the middle.<br /> "Keep acting tough, and I'll put a hole in your head." Frank spoke while glancing at the five cars. "What, looking for help?"<br /> "Let me tell you, those who ride in these cars are not the kind of weaklings like you who rely on connections. With me here, in Yeadeo's social hierarchy, even those who ride in such cars wouldn't dare meddle in this matter. And let me make it clear, without my sister, you're nothing."<br /> <br /> Chapter 4<br /> As Frank's words faded, the five cars came to a halt.<br /> A bodyguard opened the door of the one in the middle, revealing a dazzling pair of shining shoes catching everyone's eye.<br /> The shining shoe encased a beautiful foot. Above, the skirt's hem was adorned with lace.<br /> Then, like a fairy stepping out of a painting, she appeared before everyone's eyes.<br /> The lady was beautiful!<br /> Frank was mesmerized. Ever since the Reed family rose to prominence, he had been surrounded by ladies, but compared to the elegant lady before him, they were worlds apart.<br /> It wasn't just a difference in appearance but an incomparable gap in demeanor.<br /> The lady descending from the Maybach seemed like a celestial being untouched by mortal affairs.<br /> The embodiment of a fairy in the mundane world.<br /> She simply stood there after getting out of the car, perfectly embodying what it meant to be graceful and elegant.<br /> The lady glanced at Wesley, then at Frank.<br /> Frank grinned, saying, "May I have the honor of knowing the name of this esteemed lady? I am Frank..."<br /> The lady spoke calmly. "Disrespect Mr. Harrington, and you're done for."<br /> Her bodyguards, unfazed by Frank's crossbow, swiftly overwhelmed him, sending him crashing to the ground.<br /> The henchmen who had come with Frank, previously defeated by Wesley, now scrambled to their feet and fled in all directions.<br /> Who would dare provoke someone who could afford such a car?<br /> "My sister is Taylor Reed, the chairperson of Reed Group," Frank shouted, clutching his head.<br /> Ignoring him, one of the bodyguards dragged him to the roadside grass while another used a belt to tighten around Frank's neck, exerting pressure.<br /> "Enough, a lesson is all that's needed." Wesley spoke calmly, and only when the lady gestured did the bodyguards release Frank.<br /> Frank lay there, already unconscious.<br /> Wesley turned to the lady. "Who are you?"<br /> "I am Mia Roberts, the general manager of Vinver Business Alliance's Yeadeo branch." She looked at Wesley and continued, "Mr. Harrington, my father mentioned that you have miraculous healing skills and earnestly requested your assistance. A generous reward awaits."<br /> Wesley furrowed his brow slightly, thinking, "There are indeed people who recognize my abilities and status, yet I've rarely intervened in the past five years. Today, shortly after I divorced Taylor, she is here. Whose arrangement is this?"<br /> "Mr. Harrington, my father also mentioned that you are benevolent and has raised the banner of compassion among healers, serving as a role model and benchmark for all in the medical field."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "You have a way with words. Tell me the specifics."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, please get in the car first. I will explain in detail on the way."<br /> The phrase "compassionate healer" held significant weight for Wesley, who had saved countless lives from the brink of death.<br /> Without further ado, he got into the car.<br /> Inside, after Mia brewed coffee for Wesley, she began. "Vinver Business Alliance has a wide range of business operations, and I mainly oversee the health supplement sector, which has seen some success in recent years.<br /> "Recently, Quinn Kingsley started using our medicines, and now there's an accident."<br /> As she spoke, Mia kept her gaze fixed on Wesley.<br /> Quinn, the undisputed leader of Yeadeo, was a figure of immense influence.<br /> Upon hearing this name, Wesley showed no particular reaction. "If the city's leader faces issues with your products, it is indeed a concern. Let's go and see."<br /> With just a sentence, Wesley leaned back in his seat, closing his eyes to rest.<br /> Mia was secretly alarmed, thinking, "He knows who Quinn is, yet he seems indifferent. Who is this Wesley, really? No wonder Dad has instructed me to find a way to win his favor." Mia's inner resistance toward Wesley quietly shifted.<br /> Wesley had piqued her curiosity.<br /> As the vehicle was moving, Wesley's phone rang.<br /> Wesley opened his eyes and took out his phone to see Taylor calling.<br /> Pressing the answer button, he asked, "What's the matter?"<br /> On the other end of the line, Taylor, driving towards Feidgeuo Manor, had a grim expression.<br /> She thought, "Has Wesley ever spoken to me in such a cold tone before? Is he really this heartless right after our divorce?"<br /> Already furious, she snapped. "Wesley, do you even consider yourself a human being?<br /> "Today, not only did you lay hands on my mother, but you also had someone attack my brother. Do you not remember our past at all?"<br /> Wesley calmly replied, "Do we have a past to remember?"<br /> "You truly are a heartless scumbag, just as my mother said. You are an ungrateful and vicious person I raised for five years. Even a pet would wag its tail at me!"<br /> Taylor wanted to continue her tirade, but the phone line had already turned busy.<br /> This only fueled her anger further.<br /> Just now, she had received a call from Frank's underlings, informing her that Wesley had sent people to attack Frank and even intended to end him.<br /> Taylor wanted to demand answers, but...<br /> As Taylor was clutching her fists, her gaze turned icy.<br /> After a moment, she picked up her phone again. "Wesley, you are so narrow-minded. You have no ambition. Any lady would steer clear of you."<br /> "Just because I dumped you, you are doing this on purpose to make me feel sick. Pretending to be aloof and seeking revenge? Do you even deserve it?"<br /> "In Yeadeo, squashing you would be as easy as squashing an ant. You're asking for it! If anything happens to my brother, I will make you wish you were ending!"<br /> Her furious voice message echoed in the car.<br /> Wesley chuckled and put away his phone.<br /> Beside him, Mia seemed contemplative. Before coming, she had already ordered a swift investigation into Wesley.<br /> She was curious, thinking, "How could someone valued by my father could be the one 'marrying into' the Reed family."<br /> Being tactful, Mia chose not to ask and pretended not to have heard.<br /> After about forty minutes, they arrived at the Kingsley Manor.<br /> The Kingsley family members, upon seeing Mia alight from the car, all wore grim expressions.<br /> Mia greeted them with a smile, "Everyone, this is Wesley Harrington, Mr. Harrington, the miraculous healer I specially invited to treat Mr. Kingsley."<br /> "Him? The gent who married into the Reed family?"<br /> "A miraculous healer? Is he even worthy? Are healers so worthless now?"<br /> "A useless gent who mooches off of the Reed family? How dare he call himself a miraculous healer? Truly a joke among all jokes."<br /> Chapter 5<br /> <br /> Amanda Kingsley, Quinn's granddaughter, stared coldly at Wesley and Mia.<br /> This lady, dressed in a smart suit, also held significant fame in Yeadeo, overseeing the region's business activities, including investment attraction and various local business negotiations.<br /> Amanda had a favorable view of Taylor, who had risen swiftly in recent times, and they had interacted frequently.<br /> She was aware of Wesley's existence and had advised Taylor to part ways with him early on.<br /> But Amanda never imagined that Mia would bring someone like Wesley, a complete waste, and claim he was a miraculous healer.<br /> Glaring at Mia, she said, "Mia, once my grandfather is well, it's best for your Roberts family to leave Yeadeo."<br /> "As for you..." She glanced at Wesley. "I will advise Taylor to divorce you. You have deceived Taylor's feelings and now shamelessly made your way into my family. You are a despicable creature."<br /> After reprimanding Mia and Wesley, she turned to an elderly gent beside her, and her tone and attitude completely changed. "Mr. Phillips, sorry to trouble you. My grandfather is inside, please."<br /> Mia looked at the elderly gent, who was already in his twilight years, feeling deeply shocked.<br /> Scott Phillips, the 38th generation heir of the Healing Clinic, was now ninety-two years old.<br /> Renowned as a miraculous healer, he was a respected figure in the medical community of Yeadeo and even nationally.<br /> He no longer conducted consultations personally due to his old age. Mia had visited him specifically to pay her respects once she had arrived in Yeadeo but had not met Scott.<br /> She never expected Scott to appear in person. It was understandable, as Quinn held a prominent position in the city. Despite the profound influence of the Phillips family, they still had to show respect to Quinn.<br /> Mia looked at Wesley, feeling conflicted and thinking, "Dad has confidently claimed that Wesley has extraordinary abilities, but does he really?"<br /> She harbored doubts, but out of propriety, Mia spoke. "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the trouble."<br /> Wesley smiled, "It's fine. As long as the person can be healed."<br /> His open-mindedness impressed Mia.<br /> After about half an hour, Amanda emerged from the room. All eyes instantly turned towards her.<br /> It was evident that Amanda had wailed out, with traces of tears still visible.<br /> "Amanda, how is it?" A middle-aged gent anxiously asked her.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family who had rushed back also focused their attention on her.<br /> "Mr. Phillips said that there's little hope of recovery. He could only use acupuncture to wake grandfather for half an hour. When grandfather wakes up, let's all go in and see if he has any final instructions."<br /> Everyone was shocked.<br /> "How could this be?"<br /> "Is Mr. Phillips also helpless?"<br /> The members of the Kingsley family found it hard to accept this reality, especially since Quinn had always treated his juniors well.<br /> The thought of Quinn departing saddened some, and tears silently fell.<br /> Publicly, Quinn's status was the foundation of the Kingsley family's prominence in Yeadeo.<br /> If Quinn were to pass away, the Kingsley family would undoubtedly decline.<br /> The atmosphere within the Kingsley family was somber.<br /> Amanda looked at her family members, opened her mouth, but said nothing, silently turning back into the room.<br /> "Stop crying," A middle-aged gent said sternly, "Dad wouldn't want to see you all in tears. If he's really leaving, we mustn't let him worry about us. Pull yourselves together."<br /> After these words, the middle-aged gent also entered the room.<br /> The younger members of the Kingsley family wiped their tears vigorously, trying to force smiles, but in truth, they looked better at crying than pretending to be happy.<br /> Mia's spirit plummeted as she realized the gravity of the situation. Even if an ordinary person passed away from consuming health supplements, it spelled big trouble for those who sold them. And when the deceased happened to be Quinn, the stakes were even higher.<br /> She understood that it would be difficult for this branch to stay in Yeadeo, and even the headquarters might face repercussions.<br /> "Let's go in and have a look." Wesley glanced at Mia. "There might still be a chance."<br /> "Ah..." Mia stared at Wesley in surprise. Seeing him already heading towards the room, she quickly followed suit.<br /> Inside the room, the members of the Kingsley family stood around the mattress, maintaining a certain distance.<br /> Scott lit the alcohol lamp and took out the needles, his expression solemn.<br /> He looked at the members of the Kingsley family. "Think about what you want to say to Mr. Kingsley later. Once you're ready, let me know, and then I'll proceed with the acupuncture."<br /> As he said this, tears welled up in many eyes.<br /> "If you don't mind, let me take a look. I have a way." Wesley spoke up, drawing everyone's attention.<br /> Amanda's face darkened. "Who let you in? Get out!"<br /> "Mia, have you lost your mind? Tricked by this trash and actually brought him here as a miracle healer. Get out with him! I'll settle the score with you in a couple of days."<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, at a loss for words.<br /> "Even Mr. Phillips is unable to reverse the situation. What use are you? Get out." Another younger member of the Kingsley family angrily rebuked.<br /> The middle-aged gent added, "We're in no mood right now. You better leave immediately."<br /> "I understand your narrow-mindedness," Wesley continued, "But as a healer, once I see a patient, I cannot stand by and watch him draw his last breath."<br /> "Wesley, you're quite the charlatan. Do you really want to be gone right now?" Amanda's voice was filled with anger.<br /> "Amanda, let me say a few words," Scott interjected, and Amanda fell silent.<br /> Looking at Wesley, Scott began. "Young lad, at my age, I've seen a lot and have a broad perspective. Today, however, I find it hard to remain indifferent. I practiced medicine from the age of sixteen until I stopped seeing patients for a total of seventy years."<br /> "I've saved countless patients from various illnesses. I never easily declare a patient's fate, nor do I believe I have the right to do so."<br /> "But from your recent remarks, it seems like you're accusing me of such actions. Young people wanting to make a name for themselves by stepping on the shoulders of their predecessors, I can understand."<br /> "But this kind of behavior displeases me."<br /> "My displeasure, what does it mean to you? Do you understand?"<br /> "Even if you are a healer, your career will be ruined because of this."<br /> Chapter 6 <br /> In the face of Scott's veiled threats, Wesley simply smiled and brushed them off.<br /> Looking at Scott, he asked, "I've always focused on the issue at hand rather than attacking individuals. I have a few questions for you. If you can't administer the needles, how long do you think Quinn can hold on?"<br /> "Seven days, but he will remain unconscious," Scott replied bluntly.<br /> "Then let me ask you this, is there anyone in the world with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "Outrageous," Amanda coldly interjected, "Mr. Phillips is unparalleled in his medical expertise."<br /> Scott glanced at Amanda. "Amanda, let me handle this question."<br /> Continuing to address Wesley, he said, "I don't underestimate myself, nor do I overestimate. There are countless talented individuals in the world, like stars in the sky. I may not dare claim to be the best in medical skills, but those who surpass me are few."<br /> "That means there are some," Wesley calmly remarked, causing Scott's expression to shift slightly, "Indeed, there are."<br /> "Then let me ask you this. Do you think within seven days, the Kingsley family won't find someone with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "If they do find someone, do you believe there is an illness that you cannot cure, but this person can?"<br /> Wesley's questions were sharp and resounding.<br /> Scott's face changed once more as he was rendered speechless.<br /> "Even if there is, that person will never be you." Amanda's face turned icy. "Now get out. Don't spout your eloquence here. Your deceitful behavior is repulsive."<br /> "Your understanding of me is merely hearsay, isn't it?" Wesley retorted, his gaze mocking Amanda, "Has your background and education taught you such arrogance and prejudice?"<br /> "Arrogance?" Amanda's face grew colder as she disdainfully looked at Wesley. "Prejudice?<br /> "Did I say something wrong just now? You are nothing but stagnant waste, a parasite living off others. If it weren't for Taylor, you would have starved on the streets long ago."<br /> "Relying on sweet words, deceiving Taylor. She, with her kind heart, can't bear to divorce you, but don't push your luck. If it weren't for Taylor's sake, you would have been sent out long ago."<br /> Scott interrupted Amanda, "Amanda, although I find this lad a bit annoying, what he said does hold some truth. There are indeed individuals with better medical skills than me. Your grandfather can hold on for seven days. Try reaching out to see if someone can come over. I'll help you make connections."<br /> "If it really doesn't work out after seven days, I'll administer the needles to your grandfather. However, at that point, I can only buy you three minutes."<br /> As soon as Scott spoke, the faces of the Kingsley family members grew even more solemn. True healers were rare and not easily summoned.<br /> While the Kingsley family had connections in Yeadeo, their influence waned outside of it.<br /> "Mr. Phillips, please administer the needles. Life has its ups and downs, and we understand that. Just buy my father a bit more time." The middle-aged gent spoke up.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family nodded in agreement.<br /> Amanda looked at Scott. "Mr. Phillips, please."<br /> "In that case, please have everyone unrelated leave. I need silence," Scott calmly stated.<br /> Amanda glared at Wesley, her eyes speaking volumes without a word.<br /> The unrelated individuals were, naturally, Wesley and Mia.<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, intending to leave, but she suddenly hesitated.<br /> Instead of leaving, Wesley moved forward.<br /> "What are you doing?" A young member of the Kingsley family stepped forward with a stern expression, pushing Wesley.<br /> In one swift motion, Wesley executed a clean shoulder throw, toppling the young gent to the ground, his own expression turning cold.<br /> "A bunch of fools! If it weren't for my teacher's teachings about not turning a blind eye to those in need, I wouldn't bother with you ignorant lot," Wesley remarked with disdain.<br /> As Wesley effortlessly took down one individual from the Kingsley family, the others seemed slow to react.<br /> By the time they realized what was happening, Wesley had already picked up the needle next to Scott and casually flicked his wrist.<br /> The needle flew out of his hand, piercing Quinn's temple, followed by a second needle, a third needle, and so on.<br /> "What are you doing? Stop!" Amanda's voice rose in urgency, echoed by the rest of the Kingsley family members who rushed forward to restrain Wesley.<br /> "Stay back, everyone. Wait." Scott suddenly stood up, blocking the others. "Let him try."<br /> Amanda and the others were left dumbfounded, thinking, "What does this mean?"<br /> Despite their confusion, they heeded Scott's words.<br /> After Scott stopped the members of the Kingsley family, he fixed his gaze on Wesley.<br /> Wesley proceeded to use eighteen needles in succession, symbolizing the levels of pain.<br /> Even if someone had descended into the depths of hell, they must be brought back.<br /> The final needle, also piercing a vital point, caused Quinn's body to tremble suddenly, resonating with the previous eighteen needles.<br /> Scott's eyes widened, his body trembling slightly. His reaction left Amanda and the others even more puzzled, but none dared to interrupt.<br /> Moments later, Wesley placed a palm on Quinn's chest, causing all eighteen needles to be shaken off. When all the needles landed on the ground, the part of the skin where the needles had pierced turned dark.<br /> Wesley then dragged Quinn to the edge of the mattress, flipped him over with his head facing downwards, and gave him a firm pat on the back.<br /> Quinn spat out a mouthful of black liquid. When Wesley flipped him back to lie flat, his complexion had regained some color.<br /> "The Hand of Darkness... It's the Hand of Darkness!" Scott exclaimed with excitement, his body quivering, "It's the Hand that descends into the dark world, snatching people from the hands of the Evil!"<br /> "You do have some knowledge, recognizing the Hand of Darkness." Wesley glanced at Scott.<br /> Scott's gaze towards Wesley had undergone a drastic change. He respectfully clasped his hands together.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thirty years ago, I had the honor of attending a teaching conference held by Mr. Vanderbilt. I saw the Hand of Darkness, but my limited aptitude only allowed me to grasp the basics."<br /> "I have been blind and ignorant. I apologize for my earlier offenses. Please forgive me, Mr. Harrington."<br /> The Mr. Vanderbilt Scott referred to was Wesley's teacher, Ulysses Vanderbilt. He generously imparted his skills to others, but the ability to learn depended on one's innate talent.<br /> In this world, few could learn Ulysses' skills.<br /> Scott had been fortunate to receive guidance from Ulysses, which had elevated his medical skills. However, the Hand of Darkness, a miraculous ability, was beyond his comprehension.<br /> Wesley smiled faintly, "Your actions earlier are understandable. I appreciate your words."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you must be an exceptional disciple of Mr. Vanderbilt, possessing unparalleled magnanimity. Impressive," Scott continued.<br /> "Enough with the flattery at your age."<br /> "You are mistaken, Mr. Harrington. Every word I speak is sincere."<br /> Mia, Amanda, and the others stood bewildered by the unfolding situation.<br /> "Mr. Phillips... he... he..." Amanda's words faltered.<br /> Scott turned to the members of the Kingsley family. "Meeting Mr. Harrington was Quinn's luck. His symptoms have been cured by Mr. Harrington. With a few days of rest, he will be fine."<br /> The waste Taylor had previously said was called Mr. Harrington by Scott!<br /> Recalling their previous attitudes, Amanda hurriedly apologized, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> The members of the Kingsley family all apologized in unison, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> Chapter 7 <br /> With a faint smile, Wesley remarked, "As family members of a patient, your actions earlier are understandable. There's no need for such formality."<br /> Amanda's perplexity deepened as she thought, "Where is the cowardly waste that Taylor described? This display of magnanimity and breadth is far from it."<br /> Mia, too, felt a shiver of realization, thinking, "No wonder Dad has insisted on my proximity to Wesley.<br /> This guy..."<br /> She gazed at Wesley, her curiosity piqued, a sense of exploration stirring within her.<br /> "Mia has brought you here, Mr. Harrington, to cure my grandfather. The Kingsley family will never forget this act. However, considering that my grandfather's ailment stemmed from the health supplements produced by the Vinver Business Alliance, we will be conducting an investigation into it."<br /> Amanda continued, looking at Wesley, "What do you think... of this approach?"<br /> It was Mia who had invited Wesley, so Amanda had grown wiser, refraining from asking for a direct punishment of the Vinver Business Alliance.<br /> As Mia heard Amanda's words, her heart skipped a beat, realizing trouble was brewing.<br /> "On the way here, Ms. Roberts briefed me on the situation. You conducted experiments on mice, correct?"<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes, the health supplements we received were exclusively provided by the Roberts family. There were no similar cases on the market, so we used mice for testing.<br /> "All the mice that ingested this supplement were gone."<br /> She looked at Mia and added, her voice turning colder, "Before the experiment, I specifically contacted Mia to inquire about the testing methods during the development phase, which involved mice.<br /> "There have been individuals eyeing my grandfather's position, some even wishing for his demise. I never imagined that the Vinver Business Alliance, which I attracted for investment, would become a weapon in someone else's hands."<br /> "Do you have any of the remaining medicine?" Wesley inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes."<br /> "Bring some over."<br /> Immediately, someone fetched the medicine. After it was brought to him, Wesley took out a supplement and swallowed it directly.<br /> This scene left Amanda and the others dumbfounded.<br /> Scott, too, was bewildered. "Mr. Harrington, what are you doing?"<br /> Wesley smiled, "Just proving that this medicine is not toxic."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thank you," Mia thanked sincerely, feeling like crying at that moment.<br /> Amanda, with a puzzled expression, looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, are you suggesting that my grandfather's condition wasn't caused by the Vinver Business Alliance's medicine? What about the mice?"<br /> The rest were equally puzzled.<br /> "Yes, but not entirely," Wesley said, leaving everyone even more bewildered.<br /> Mia's emotions were like a rollercoaster ride, from relief to immediate tension.<br /> "This medicine itself is not toxic, but when taken with another substance made from a certain plant, it results in Quinn's condition. The mice would die immediately, while humans could endure a few more days."<br /> Wesley continued to explain, "The plant used in this concoction is originally meant for crafting slow-acting toxins, not for human consumption."<br /> Looking at Amanda, Wesley said, "During this period, whoever had access to your grandfather and the mice will better understand why these events occurred."<br /> The gaze of members of the Kingsley family immediately focused on a lady.<br /> Amanda, somewhat incredulous, looked at her. "Can you offer an explanation?"<br /> The lady was the wife of Amanda's deceased brother. She found it hard to accept, as did the rest of the Kingsley family.<br /> This lady had been named the exemplary lady who served her family well this year, not due to her connection with the Kingsley family but because she genuinely deserved it.<br /> "What do you mean? Amanda, what explanation do you want from me?"<br /> The lady stared at Amanda. "Am I the only one who had access to Grandfather and the mice? You, and you... and you, who didn't have access?"<br /> "You all claim to treat me as family. Since I married into the Kingsley family, I have worked diligently, contributing my share even if not acknowledged."<br /> "Amanda, it has been over a year since your brother passed, and I never once considered remarrying. Now, just because of his words, you demand an explanation from me?"<br /> Pointing at Wesley, the lady questioned, "Just because he accuses me of poisoning, you suspect me? Tell me, did I poison him?" The lady glared at Wesley.<br /> "I am merely analyzing the facts. As for concluding this case, it's not within my purview," Wesley addressed the members of the Kingsley family, saying, "You should conduct a thorough investigation into this matter.<br /> "I will write a prescription. Have Quinn take it on time, and he will recover in seven days."<br /> Amanda hurried to fetch paper and pen while Wesley prepared the prescription. Once done, he was ready to leave.<br /> Amanda said hurriedly, "Mr. Harrington, I've already made arrangements for lunch."<br /> "No need," Wesley smiled.<br /> The Kingsley family sought to build closer ties with Wesley, given his extraordinary medical skills. Wesley was well aware of this.<br /> Looking at Amanda and the others, Wesley remarked, "In the future, if you encounter any difficult medical cases that others cannot solve, seek me out. Remember, cases others cannot solve."<br /> The gaze of the Kingsley family members toward Wesley changed once again. Many renowned healers had eccentric personalities and were difficult to engage.<br /> They hadn't expected Wesley to possess such remarkable medical skills without any airs.<br /> As Wesley prepared to depart, the members of the Kingsley family did not dare to insist on his stay, so they accompanied him outside.<br /> "Oh, how could we forget such an important matter? Amanda, what about the consultation fee?" The middle-aged gent inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the oversight. Please wait a moment." Amanda hurried back inside and soon returned with a bank card in hand.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, there's one million dollars in here."<br /> Without hesitation, Wesley accepted the bank card and boarded Mia's car.<br /> During the journey, Mia boldly looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, you've helped me immensely. Can I treat you to a meal? Don't decline in a hurry. It's not a fancy restaurant, but it will leave you wanting more. It's a small place on the street, with only eight plates of noodles served each day, each plate containing different ingredients.<br /> "I managed to secure a reservation. Are you interested?"<br /> Wesley thought, "Eight Plates of Noodles? Ah, Aaron's restaurant. It has been a while since I visited those old friends."<br /> Wesley nodded. "Let's go then."<br /> The restaurant, Eight Plates of Noodles, was located on Chanxold Street near the Yeadeo First Central Hospital.<br /> The establishment was small, serving only eight plates of noodles each day at a price of 10 thousand dollars each. Vernoic's television culinary program had specifically covered this incident.<br /> Reservations were a must to secure a plate.<br /> The restaurant's owner had a mysterious background. While the specifics were unknown, a high-ranking noble from the capital of Vernoic, Kingsland, had caused a scene there once.<br /> He had attempted to force his way in without a reservation. Although this incident hadn't been reported, rumors suggested that a garbage truck had to be called to dispose of the intruder's remains, as he was too shattered to be removed by conventional means.<br /> Since then, no one dared to cause trouble.<br /> On their way, Mia introduced Wesley to the background story.<br /> "Mr. Turner, two plates of noodles." Mia called out once they arrived.<br /> Aaron Turner didn't respond but visibly paused upon seeing Wesley beside Mia.<br /> A faint smile appeared on his usually stoic face. Though the flesh on the face seemed stiff, it was indeed a smile. "Coming right up."<br /> Mia glanced at Aaron with a hint of surprise, thinking, "When did he become so warm and enthusiastic? His tone seemed a bit agitated earlier, didn't it?"<br /> Soon enough, Aaron brought two plates of noodles to the table. One steaming hot and the other devoid of any warmth.<br /> As Mia observed Aaron placing the plate without steam in front of Wesley, her expression changed slightly.<br /> It was a plate of instant noodles having soaked in cold water, with the seasoning barely dissolved.<br /> She felt a sense of panic. Mia had wanted to leave a good impression on Wesley, which was why she had chosen this place.<br /> However, Aaron had served such a plate of noodles.<br /> She dared not question Aaron. The type of noodles served here was not determined by the guests but by Aaron's mood.<br /> "This girl named Mia is quite something, living up to her name, and quite kind-hearted," Aaron remarked, looking at Wesley.<br /> "Get lost," Wesley retorted, using his fork to pick up the noodles and devouring them.<br /> Mia's face turned pale instantly. Disrespecting Aaron was akin to risking Wesley's life.<br /> To her astonishment, Aaron chuckled, tears welling up in his eyes.<br /> He wiped them away. "Alright, I'll leave you to your meal."<br /> Before departing, he gave Mia a thumbs-up. "Seize the opportunity."<br /> The eight plates of noodles symbolized the eight comrades who had faced life and life-threatening situations together.<br /> Wesley ate voraciously. Initially, they had only one pack of instant noodles to share among the eight of them, forcing them to divide it.<br /> Despite the circumstances, they devoured the noodles joyfully.<br /> Aaron had promised that once they survived, each one would have the most delicious plate of noodles.<br /> However, five of the eight had perished.<br /> Wesley had come dangerously close to life-threatening situations, but managed to cling to life.<br /> For him, the plate of noodles was not food but the bond of friendship that had shielded him from harm.<br /> "Do you... know each other?" Mia couldn't help but ask, her voice low and curious.<br /> "Some things are better left unknown," Wesley replied.<br /> Mia nodded in understanding, falling silent as they continued eating noodles. She couldn't help stealing glances at Wesley throughout the meal.<br /> This gent had piqued her curiosity even more.<br /> "Wesley, I see. No wonder you agreed to the divorce so readily. You've already found someone else outside."<br /> A sharp voice interrupted their meal.<br /> Taylor approached with a cold expression, accompanied by Henry. | Adoread Romance story | 106 | https://facebook.com/61557113391558 | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1713250800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846733 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446608 | 1735168083 | 890 | 1165774234454158 | 1 | 8.0956832104661E+14 | 1713337200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 235254296344339 | 0 | Adoread Romance story | 120207848351190113 | play.google.com | Install now | NONE | video | HOT BOOK✨Tap the button to read more👉 | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.adoread.book | 1713261148 | 2.3525429634434E+14 | Adoread Romance story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435696930_2201225726883649_3933890725883325637_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VLWz6lqWVzUQ7kNvgEROVTb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCGSdgl2Z1cqh79UjTHr4cwqxOw8r-tyL5tlJd06ArYxQ&oe=6663F71F | person_profile | 0 | Adoread Romance story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435656917_801657301378069_260347530484228326_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Fr46AvA_AxYQ7kNvgHRjTRC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCHO5GkKHfc-3DgfIoL3rIZG5gmr9N9i-EcLuK8DarvGw&oe=6663DE32 | 0 | 3 | Chapter 1 <br /> "Wesley, are you trying to harm me? You useless piece of trash, can't even make a decent cup of coffee, can you?"<br /> Madison Blair lifted her coffee cup and splashed it directly onto Wesley Harrington's face.<br /> "What are you looking at, you spineless waste? Your name sounds so lofty? I might as well call you a waste."<br /> Glancing at the grotesque expression of his wife's mother, Wesley pulled out his phone to check the time.<br /> Exactly twelve o'clock. It had been five full years since he married Taylor Reed.<br /> The appointed time had come.<br /> He had fulfilled his promise, safeguarding the Reed family for five years, transforming them from a family living off fishing to one perceived as affluent by the common folk.<br /> Wiping the coffee off his face, he turned and walked away.<br /> "Where do you think you're going? Go fetch some more coffee," Madison shouted.<br /> "Madison, didn't you say this waste is obedient at home, doing whatever he's told? I don't think he's taking it lying down."<br /> Madison grew angrier. "Wesley, you stop right there. My family has fed and housed you. If you dare disobey, I'll have you thrown out!"<br /> Ignoring her, Wesley continued downstairs.<br /> "When Taylor comes back, I'll immediately have you two divorced. Do you hear me? Stay right there," Madison threatened, "I'll let you know your place today."<br /> Grabbing a golf club, Madison swiftly charged towards Wesley.<br /> Seeing Wesley heading downstairs, she swung the club viciously at his back.<br /> Without turning back, Wesley gently sidestepped.<br /> Losing her balance, Madison tumbled forward, rolling down the stairs with a series of thumps.<br /> "Ouch... it hurts, it hurts so much!"<br /> As Madison reached the ground floor, she wailed in pain and her sister immediately rushed to her.<br /> "Wesley, what have you done? How dare you hit my sister!" Madison's sister hurried down, checking on Madison's condition.<br /> Wesley remained silent, observing the scene.<br /> "Quick, call Taylor. Tell her to come back. Today, she must divorce this waste." Madison glared at Wesley. "How dare you hit me? Not only will I let Taylor divorce you, but I'll make sure you leave in disgrace."<br /> "Mum, what's wrong?" At that moment, a gent and a lady walked in.<br /> The lady was Taylor, Madison's daughter.<br /> She ran towards Madison.<br /> As Madison pointed at Wesley, tears streamed down her face. "Taylor, he hit me, he hit me! When you're not home, he changes his attitude, scolding and hitting me in the slightest displeasure. He even pushed me down the stairs just now. Alexis can testify."<br /> Madison's sister, Alexis Blair, chimed in. "Yes, Wesley, this trash not only hit your mother but also threatened to hit me too. We cannot tolerate such trash."<br /> "Taylor, I have been telling you to divorce him for years. You've been supporting him, treating him like a Lord at home, but he's an ungrateful wolf in sheep's clothing."<br /> Helping Madison up, Taylor noticed the scrapes on Madison's arms and legs, her expression turning cold.<br /> "Wesley, why did you hit my mother? You better give me an explanation."<br /> Wesley looked at Taylor, his wife.<br /> Five years had passed, and she had never shown him kindness.<br /> Taylor dressed impeccably, a paragon of a successful lady, with a face that could be deemed angelic, yet whether her heart was as angelic remained a mystery.<br /> Her figure, too, left countless men yearning.<br /> For five years, Wesley had thought he might develop feelings for this lady, but in reality, it never happened.<br /> "There are surveillance cameras in the house," Wesley stated calmly before descending the stairs into the hallway.<br /> Despite residing in a three-story villa, Wesley's living quarters were confined to the stairwell.<br /> He harbored no resentment towards this arrangement. It was merely a promise. It was just that Taylor failed to appreciate him.<br /> This home held little value that he wished to cling onto.<br /> Retrieving a wooden box from beneath his pillow, Wesley extracted two documents. Casting a fleeting glance at the modest abode he had called home for five years, Wesley smiled faintly.<br /> He thought, "Finally... I'm free."<br /> Pushing the door ajar, Wesley was met by Taylor's piercing gaze. "I've reviewed the surveillance footage. Yes, my mother intended to strike you, but even if she did, what difference would it make?"<br /> "She's a lady. How much could her blows hurt you? Why did you dodge?"<br /> "If you hadn't dodged, my mother wouldn't have tumbled down." Wesley stared at Taylor, unable to comprehend her thought process.<br /> He had no interest in engaging in these arguments. Handing over the two documents to Taylor, he remarked, "The divorce agreement. I've already signed it. Take a look. I'm leaving with nothing."<br /> "With your current influence, there's no need for you to visit the city hall. Someone will handle it for you, right?"<br /> Madison was taken aback. She swiftly snatched the divorce agreement, flipping through it hastily.<br /> The contents were indeed straightforward. Both parties willingly divorced, with Wesley relinquishing all claims and having already signed.<br /> In an instant, Madison's pain seemed to dissipate. "Taylor, sign it quickly. Sign it."<br /> Taylor was still in a daze.<br /> She pondered.<br /> "A divorce agreement? Wesley has already prepared a divorce agreement. On what grounds?"<br /> "What gives him the right to initiate a divorce? All these years, he's done nothing at home, lacking any ambition. Always practicing martial arts, what right does he have to seek a divorce?"<br /> "If anyone should initiate it, it should be me. Moreover, now that I'm back to discussing this matter with him. Could it be that word got out, and Wesley, for the sake of his pride, rushed to prepare a divorce agreement first?"<br /> "It must be so, but... No!"<br /> "Wanting to leave with nothing, is he retreating to advance? As the chairman of the Reed Group, how could I be served with a divorce?"<br /> "Hey Wesley, I never expected this from you. Have I not treated you well enough? You seek a divorce, attempting to turn your retreat into advance, aiming to embarrass me?"<br /> Taylor glared at Wesley. "I'm telling you, it's impossible."<br /> Snatching the divorce agreement, she tore it to shreds.<br /> "Taylor, what are you doing? Such a great opportunity. Why not just sign it and let him leave?" Madison grew anxious.<br /> "Mom, I do intend to divorce this trash, but the decision must come from me. I returned specifically to address this matter."<br /> With that, Taylor produced two documents. "Wesley, remember that it's me who's divorcing you. It's me who no longer wants you. Initially, out of marital obligation, I had considered offering you some compensation. Now, you don't even need to think about it. Sign the divorce agreement and leave my home."<br /> Wesley offered a faint smile as he accepted the divorce agreement.<br /> "What are you laughing at?" Taylor demanded angrily.<br /> Wesley's smile seemed to mock her, fueling her rage.<br /> Ignoring her entirely, Wesley signed the document and handed it over.<br /> "What are you laughing at? Answer me! Who do you think you are?" Taylor roared once more.<br /> Wesley glanced at her before striding towards the exit.<br /> "Stop!" The gent who had accompanied Taylor stepped forward, blocking Wesley's path. "Taylor asked you a question, and... Your previous attitude displeased me. Apologize to Taylor, or I'll have you leave in disgrace!"<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 <br /> "Yes, let him leave in disgrace. He thought he could just hit me and walk away so easily," Madison joined in the commotion, also noticing the gent blocking Wesley's path.<br /> Madison had a keen interest in luxury goods, having frequented various high-end establishments over the years as the Reed family's living conditions improved. The gent was wearing an expensive watch and dressed head to toe in high-end luxury brands.<br /> Seeing Madison's gaze, the gent spoke. "Rest assured, today Wesley must pay the price."<br /> The gent introduced himself, looking at Wesley, "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Henry Clark, the eldest son of the Clark family and the general manager of the Clark Group in the North District."<br /> "From now on, I will accompany Taylor on her journey of life, and I will not allow anyone to bully her."<br /> "My identity carries weight. You should understand that. Now, apologize to Taylor. Apologize! Did you hear me? Apologize!"<br /> Madison's eyes lit up. She hadn't expected the gent before her to hold such a high status. She continued to shout, "Did you hear that? Taylor will be with Mr. Clark from now on. Apologize now."<br /> Wesley glanced at Henry, then at Taylor. He thought, "Have they been together all along?" Wesley had wanted to ask but decided against it because there was no need. He simply gave them a glance and continued walking towards the exit.<br /> "Are you ignoring me?" Henry's face turned cold as he reached out to grab Wesley. Henry's hand froze mid-air as he received a solid hit.<br /> "Until I sign the divorce papers, Taylor and I are still wife and husband. I don't care to investigate whether you two had any intimate relationship during that time, but don't provoke me, or I won't hesitate to make you regret it." Wesley's gaze was icy, and as Henry met his eyes, he felt a twinge of fear and swallowed his words.<br /> Taylor was also stunned. She knew exactly what Wesley had been like over the past five years. There were many surveillance cameras in the house, and she would often check them.<br /> Even when Taylor wasn't home, despite how her family treated Wesley, he always obeyed without complaint, especially towards her. He had never raised his voice, no matter how they treated him.<br /> Today, not only did Wesley dodge when her mother struck, but he also initiated the divorce and now even struck Henry. <br /> Taylor was at a loss for words, thinking, "How could this cowardly gent dare? On what grounds does he dare?"<br /> This change was difficult for Taylor to accept as if she didn't truly understand this guy. The gent who used to be obedient to her, completely submissive, now revealed this side of himself. She watched Wesley walk away in a daze, feeling a strange discomfort in her heart.<br /> "Isn't he leaving with nothing?" Alexis pointed at the wooden box Wesley was holding. "What is he taking with him?"<br /> Madison also realized. Over the past five years, Wesley had always treasured this wooden box, carrying it with him wherever he went. She thought there must be something valuable inside.<br /> Realizing this, Madison hurriedly followed. "Wesley, stop right there, leave the wooden box."<br /> Wesley paused, glanced at Madison, and said, "This is my personal belonging."<br /> "Nonsense, what personal belonging could you possibly have after marrying into the Reed family? Everything you've eaten, worn, and lived in over the years has been provided by the Reed family. Put it down."<br /> As she spoke, Madison reached out to grab the wooden box.<br /> "Ah..." A scream rang out as Madison quickly retracted her hand, a gash appearing on her palm, a crimson liquid dripping.<br /> The wooden box was now stained with the same crimson liquid, trembling lightly in Wesley's hand.<br /> "It's not the right time yet, the day you thirst for this crimson liquid will come," Wesley murmured softly, patting the box before turning to continue his stride towards the exit.<br /> "Monster! A monster!" Madison screamed, causing Taylor and the others to rush out. Seeing the wound in Madison's hand, Taylor was filled with rage.<br /> "Wesley, aren't you going to say something?" Wesley halted once more, contemplating before meeting Taylor's gaze.<br /> "Just stay out of my way from now on. Consider this a warning to you."<br /> "Taylor, that wooden box of his has a mechanism. It must hold something valuable! We can't let him take it with him," Madison, enduring the pain, reminded them.<br /> "Mom, your injury is important. We'll deal with him later. Let me take you to the hospital first." Taylor comforted Madison before calling out to the retreating Wesley.<br /> "Our marriage is over! Yet, you dared to hurt my mother! This won't be the end of it! I will make you regret it!" Ignoring her, Wesley continued walking out.<br /> "Rest assured, I promise he won't see the light of day tomorrow." Henry stepped forward to console. "Let's focus on getting your wound treated first."<br /> "I want him to regret ever existing in this world, to apologize to me in repentance," Madison roared.<br /> "Mom, trust me, I will make him do just that." Taylor looked at Madison with a mix of pity and determination. "Let's go to the hospital first."<br /> In the villa area, Wesley halted, his voice cold. "Get out."<br /> An elderly gent leaped down from a tree, appearing to be in his seventies, yet landing silently from a height of around ten feet.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, your father wants you to come home and take charge."<br /> "He stopped being my father five years ago. He's my enemy."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you misunderstood your father. He had his reasons back then. I swear in my life, once you know the truth, you will forgive him."<br /> "Huh!" Wesley smirked coldly, saying, "I nearly passed away back then. Is that also a misunderstanding?"<br /> The old gent pleaded, "Mr. Harrington, this situation is truly not as you perceive it."<br /> Wesley didn't engage further with the old guy. The events of that year were etched in his memory forever. He was the one who had been abandoned. If not for that incident, why would he have stayed with the Reed family for five years?<br /> Watching Wesley walk away, the old gent had tears silently streaming down his face. "Mr. Harrington, I truly... I truly can't bring myself to speak the truth, but you have misunderstood your father. He also bears burdens and endures pains beyond what an ordinary person can handle."<br /> As Wesley's figure disappeared, the old gent stood up, hesitated for a moment, then dialed a number on his phone.<br /> "Mr. Harrington is now divorced. I've given you the news firsthand. If your daughter is truly together with Mr. Harrington, you must fulfill the promise and let her persuade Mr. Harrington to come home."<br /> After hanging up, a middle-aged gent in a luxurious estate jumped up excitedly. Calming himself, he immediately made another call. "My dear, you're at Yeadeo, right?<br /> "Go find Wesley now. Don't mention the engagement for now. Use every means to get close to him, make him fall in love with you."<br /> "Dad, I don't have time."<br /> "No matter what you are busy with, you must go find Wesley now. No matter what reason you approach him, you must leave a good impression the first time."<br /> "Dad, I'm in trouble right now. If I don't handle it well, I might be good as gone. I have to deal with it immediately. I'm hanging up."<br /> Chapter 3 <br /> The middle-aged gent's voice lowered significantly. "Is there a big incident happening? You didn't tell me? What happened?"<br /> "Quinn Kingsley from Yeadeo, Mr. Kingsley, used our product and now has one foot on the grave. If something really happens to him..."<br /> "You mean Quinn, the uncontested leader of Yeadeo?"<br /> "Yes."<br /> "In that case, you should go find Wesley. Trust me, in this world, there is no problem that Wesley can't solve. As long as he's willing to help, you'll be fine. Listen to me, go find Wesley immediately."<br /> The lady fell silent for a moment before saying, "Okay."<br /> At Yeadeo Harbor, a gent with a large flaxen chain and a watch, sporting a crew cut, hurriedly disembarked, accompanied by a dozen gentlemen.<br /> "Mr. Reed, wherever that trash is, we will find him and tear him apart."<br /> "Yes, that guy dared to harm your mother. We'll make sure he pays for it."<br /> Frank Reed's face turned cold. "Wesley, you coward, thinking you can overturn the world? How dare you touch my mom? Just wait until I find you, you're finished."<br /> "We've found him. Wesley got into a taxi, and our boys followed him."<br /> "Let's go!" Frank waved his hand, leading dozens of men who boarded the car with harpoons, steel pipes, and other weapons.<br /> Inside the taxi, Wesley gazed at the scenery outside, feeling a strange sense of tranquility.<br /> He thought to himself, "I never imagined that while I was secretly paving the way for the Reed family, Taylor, after progressing so rapidly, would start looking down on me more and more."<br /> "Those ladies who know my true identity, which one of them isn't trying to throw themselves at me? Ladies like that don't interest me."<br /> "Being an ordinary gent is truly difficult," Wesley murmured, smiling faintly and deciding not to dwell on these matters anymore. He had important things to attend to and no time to waste on personal affairs.<br /> "Young lad, are you going to Feidgeuo Manor for a job interview?" The driver, curious about Wesley's destination, inquired.<br /> Feidgeuo Manor was Yeadeo's most mysterious private area. Originally a villa area, it was bought at a huge cost five years ago and completely renovated. It was said to have cost a trillion dollars. The former villa area was now Feidgeuo Manor.<br /> "That's my home," Wesley replied nonchalantly.<br /> The driver was taken aback by this revelation, silently cursing Wesley for bragging. After a couple of minutes, the driver regained his composure. "It seems like you and I both prefer to keep a low profile. My car usually gathers dust at home, so I occasionally drive a taxi to experience life."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "My car has been driven by my assistant for the past few years, so it's not gathering dust."<br /> "Haha..." The driver laughed. "We should get together sometime and see whose car is more impressive."<br /> "Sure, whenever we have the time."<br /> As they chatted, the vehicle soon arrived near Feidgeuo Manor, where the massive head of the Feidgeuo Peak protruded, creating a unique landscape in Yeadeo.<br /> The driver asked with a smile, "Since you're the owner here, it's fine if I drive in, right?"<br /> "Of course," Wesley replied.<br /> As soon as Wesley spoke, several cars caught up from behind.<br /> The cars surrounded the one Wesley was in, with the front vehicles braking to force the car to a stop.<br /> When numerous people descended from cars wielding harpoons and steel pipes, the driver's face paled.<br /> Frank and his group got out of the cars, instantly closing in, and without hesitation, started attacking, the steel pipes and harpoons thudding against the car.<br /> Frank's henchman yanked open the door of Wesley's car, poised to stab Wesley with a harpoon, but Wesley swiftly exited the vehicle.<br /> With a firm step on the ground, he launched a swift hit.<br /> A muffled sound echoed as the henchman was hit away.<br /> "What are you looking at?" Frank noticed his henchmen were all staring at him. "All of you, attack together and take him down!"<br /> As he commanded, the henchmen Frank brought with him surged forward.<br /> The taxi driver, trembling, took out his phone to call the police, but Frank glared at him. "I am Frank Reed from Yeadeo Harbor. If you dare, go ahead and make that call."<br /> Frank, leveraging his sister Taylor's status, had been causing trouble in Yeadeo Harbor, and no one dared to provoke him.<br /> Upon hearing Frank's name, the driver hastily put away his phone. "Mr. Reed, I'll just check the time, you guys continue."<br /> "Huh!" Frank snorted coldly, casting his gaze towards the surrounded Wesley.<br /> The sounds of thuds continued to ring out incessantly. Because Wesley was completely surrounded, Frank was unable to see the situation inside clearly, but he could imagine it. After all, in Frank's mind, the henchmen under his command were not to be trifled with.<br /> "Hit him hard for me!"<br /> Another muffled sound and a figure flew out. At that moment, Frank finally saw the situation clearly, and his face turned pale.<br /> Frank knew that Wesley liked to practice martial arts, but he had never expected Wesley to be this skilled. It wasn't Wesley who had been beaten, but his own men by Wesley alone.<br /> Frantically, Frank turned and ran to retrieve a crossbow from the car.<br /> "Clear the way." Frank bellowed, aiming the crossbow at Wesley.<br /> "You scumbag, you think you can fight? Move one more time, and I'll end your life! Surrender!"<br /> Wesley, holding a wooden box, stared at Frank. Ignoring the crossbow in his hand, Wesley said, "Tell your henchmen to back off, or you'll all see the light from above!"<br /> "You're really good at pretending to be tough." Frank took two steps forward. "See the light? Move a muscle and see if I can end your life or not! If you don't have the guts, apologize now!"<br /> Wesley turned his head and looked at the approaching cars, with two expensive ones in the lead, two more in the rear, and another one in the middle.<br /> "Keep acting tough, and I'll put a hole in your head." Frank spoke while glancing at the five cars. "What, looking for help?"<br /> "Let me tell you, those who ride in these cars are not the kind of weaklings like you who rely on connections. With me here, in Yeadeo's social hierarchy, even those who ride in such cars wouldn't dare meddle in this matter. And let me make it clear, without my sister, you're nothing."<br /> <br /> Chapter 4<br /> As Frank's words faded, the five cars came to a halt.<br /> A bodyguard opened the door of the one in the middle, revealing a dazzling pair of shining shoes catching everyone's eye.<br /> The shining shoe encased a beautiful foot. Above, the skirt's hem was adorned with lace.<br /> Then, like a fairy stepping out of a painting, she appeared before everyone's eyes.<br /> The lady was beautiful!<br /> Frank was mesmerized. Ever since the Reed family rose to prominence, he had been surrounded by ladies, but compared to the elegant lady before him, they were worlds apart.<br /> It wasn't just a difference in appearance but an incomparable gap in demeanor.<br /> The lady descending from the Maybach seemed like a celestial being untouched by mortal affairs.<br /> The embodiment of a fairy in the mundane world.<br /> She simply stood there after getting out of the car, perfectly embodying what it meant to be graceful and elegant.<br /> The lady glanced at Wesley, then at Frank.<br /> Frank grinned, saying, "May I have the honor of knowing the name of this esteemed lady? I am Frank..."<br /> The lady spoke calmly. "Disrespect Mr. Harrington, and you're done for."<br /> Her bodyguards, unfazed by Frank's crossbow, swiftly overwhelmed him, sending him crashing to the ground.<br /> The henchmen who had come with Frank, previously defeated by Wesley, now scrambled to their feet and fled in all directions.<br /> Who would dare provoke someone who could afford such a car?<br /> "My sister is Taylor Reed, the chairperson of Reed Group," Frank shouted, clutching his head.<br /> Ignoring him, one of the bodyguards dragged him to the roadside grass while another used a belt to tighten around Frank's neck, exerting pressure.<br /> "Enough, a lesson is all that's needed." Wesley spoke calmly, and only when the lady gestured did the bodyguards release Frank.<br /> Frank lay there, already unconscious.<br /> Wesley turned to the lady. "Who are you?"<br /> "I am Mia Roberts, the general manager of Vinver Business Alliance's Yeadeo branch." She looked at Wesley and continued, "Mr. Harrington, my father mentioned that you have miraculous healing skills and earnestly requested your assistance. A generous reward awaits."<br /> Wesley furrowed his brow slightly, thinking, "There are indeed people who recognize my abilities and status, yet I've rarely intervened in the past five years. Today, shortly after I divorced Taylor, she is here. Whose arrangement is this?"<br /> "Mr. Harrington, my father also mentioned that you are benevolent and has raised the banner of compassion among healers, serving as a role model and benchmark for all in the medical field."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "You have a way with words. Tell me the specifics."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, please get in the car first. I will explain in detail on the way."<br /> The phrase "compassionate healer" held significant weight for Wesley, who had saved countless lives from the brink of death.<br /> Without further ado, he got into the car.<br /> Inside, after Mia brewed coffee for Wesley, she began. "Vinver Business Alliance has a wide range of business operations, and I mainly oversee the health supplement sector, which has seen some success in recent years.<br /> "Recently, Quinn Kingsley started using our medicines, and now there's an accident."<br /> As she spoke, Mia kept her gaze fixed on Wesley.<br /> Quinn, the undisputed leader of Yeadeo, was a figure of immense influence.<br /> Upon hearing this name, Wesley showed no particular reaction. "If the city's leader faces issues with your products, it is indeed a concern. Let's go and see."<br /> With just a sentence, Wesley leaned back in his seat, closing his eyes to rest.<br /> Mia was secretly alarmed, thinking, "He knows who Quinn is, yet he seems indifferent. Who is this Wesley, really? No wonder Dad has instructed me to find a way to win his favor." Mia's inner resistance toward Wesley quietly shifted.<br /> Wesley had piqued her curiosity.<br /> As the vehicle was moving, Wesley's phone rang.<br /> Wesley opened his eyes and took out his phone to see Taylor calling.<br /> Pressing the answer button, he asked, "What's the matter?"<br /> On the other end of the line, Taylor, driving towards Feidgeuo Manor, had a grim expression.<br /> She thought, "Has Wesley ever spoken to me in such a cold tone before? Is he really this heartless right after our divorce?"<br /> Already furious, she snapped. "Wesley, do you even consider yourself a human being?<br /> "Today, not only did you lay hands on my mother, but you also had someone attack my brother. Do you not remember our past at all?"<br /> Wesley calmly replied, "Do we have a past to remember?"<br /> "You truly are a heartless scumbag, just as my mother said. You are an ungrateful and vicious person I raised for five years. Even a pet would wag its tail at me!"<br /> Taylor wanted to continue her tirade, but the phone line had already turned busy.<br /> This only fueled her anger further.<br /> Just now, she had received a call from Frank's underlings, informing her that Wesley had sent people to attack Frank and even intended to end him.<br /> Taylor wanted to demand answers, but...<br /> As Taylor was clutching her fists, her gaze turned icy.<br /> After a moment, she picked up her phone again. "Wesley, you are so narrow-minded. You have no ambition. Any lady would steer clear of you."<br /> "Just because I dumped you, you are doing this on purpose to make me feel sick. Pretending to be aloof and seeking revenge? Do you even deserve it?"<br /> "In Yeadeo, squashing you would be as easy as squashing an ant. You're asking for it! If anything happens to my brother, I will make you wish you were ending!"<br /> Her furious voice message echoed in the car.<br /> Wesley chuckled and put away his phone.<br /> Beside him, Mia seemed contemplative. Before coming, she had already ordered a swift investigation into Wesley.<br /> She was curious, thinking, "How could someone valued by my father could be the one 'marrying into' the Reed family."<br /> Being tactful, Mia chose not to ask and pretended not to have heard.<br /> After about forty minutes, they arrived at the Kingsley Manor.<br /> The Kingsley family members, upon seeing Mia alight from the car, all wore grim expressions.<br /> Mia greeted them with a smile, "Everyone, this is Wesley Harrington, Mr. Harrington, the miraculous healer I specially invited to treat Mr. Kingsley."<br /> "Him? The gent who married into the Reed family?"<br /> "A miraculous healer? Is he even worthy? Are healers so worthless now?"<br /> "A useless gent who mooches off of the Reed family? How dare he call himself a miraculous healer? Truly a joke among all jokes."<br /> Chapter 5<br /> <br /> Amanda Kingsley, Quinn's granddaughter, stared coldly at Wesley and Mia.<br /> This lady, dressed in a smart suit, also held significant fame in Yeadeo, overseeing the region's business activities, including investment attraction and various local business negotiations.<br /> Amanda had a favorable view of Taylor, who had risen swiftly in recent times, and they had interacted frequently.<br /> She was aware of Wesley's existence and had advised Taylor to part ways with him early on.<br /> But Amanda never imagined that Mia would bring someone like Wesley, a complete waste, and claim he was a miraculous healer.<br /> Glaring at Mia, she said, "Mia, once my grandfather is well, it's best for your Roberts family to leave Yeadeo."<br /> "As for you..." She glanced at Wesley. "I will advise Taylor to divorce you. You have deceived Taylor's feelings and now shamelessly made your way into my family. You are a despicable creature."<br /> After reprimanding Mia and Wesley, she turned to an elderly gent beside her, and her tone and attitude completely changed. "Mr. Phillips, sorry to trouble you. My grandfather is inside, please."<br /> Mia looked at the elderly gent, who was already in his twilight years, feeling deeply shocked.<br /> Scott Phillips, the 38th generation heir of the Healing Clinic, was now ninety-two years old.<br /> Renowned as a miraculous healer, he was a respected figure in the medical community of Yeadeo and even nationally.<br /> He no longer conducted consultations personally due to his old age. Mia had visited him specifically to pay her respects once she had arrived in Yeadeo but had not met Scott.<br /> She never expected Scott to appear in person. It was understandable, as Quinn held a prominent position in the city. Despite the profound influence of the Phillips family, they still had to show respect to Quinn.<br /> Mia looked at Wesley, feeling conflicted and thinking, "Dad has confidently claimed that Wesley has extraordinary abilities, but does he really?"<br /> She harbored doubts, but out of propriety, Mia spoke. "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the trouble."<br /> Wesley smiled, "It's fine. As long as the person can be healed."<br /> His open-mindedness impressed Mia.<br /> After about half an hour, Amanda emerged from the room. All eyes instantly turned towards her.<br /> It was evident that Amanda had wailed out, with traces of tears still visible.<br /> "Amanda, how is it?" A middle-aged gent anxiously asked her.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family who had rushed back also focused their attention on her.<br /> "Mr. Phillips said that there's little hope of recovery. He could only use acupuncture to wake grandfather for half an hour. When grandfather wakes up, let's all go in and see if he has any final instructions."<br /> Everyone was shocked.<br /> "How could this be?"<br /> "Is Mr. Phillips also helpless?"<br /> The members of the Kingsley family found it hard to accept this reality, especially since Quinn had always treated his juniors well.<br /> The thought of Quinn departing saddened some, and tears silently fell.<br /> Publicly, Quinn's status was the foundation of the Kingsley family's prominence in Yeadeo.<br /> If Quinn were to pass away, the Kingsley family would undoubtedly decline.<br /> The atmosphere within the Kingsley family was somber.<br /> Amanda looked at her family members, opened her mouth, but said nothing, silently turning back into the room.<br /> "Stop crying," A middle-aged gent said sternly, "Dad wouldn't want to see you all in tears. If he's really leaving, we mustn't let him worry about us. Pull yourselves together."<br /> After these words, the middle-aged gent also entered the room.<br /> The younger members of the Kingsley family wiped their tears vigorously, trying to force smiles, but in truth, they looked better at crying than pretending to be happy.<br /> Mia's spirit plummeted as she realized the gravity of the situation. Even if an ordinary person passed away from consuming health supplements, it spelled big trouble for those who sold them. And when the deceased happened to be Quinn, the stakes were even higher.<br /> She understood that it would be difficult for this branch to stay in Yeadeo, and even the headquarters might face repercussions.<br /> "Let's go in and have a look." Wesley glanced at Mia. "There might still be a chance."<br /> "Ah..." Mia stared at Wesley in surprise. Seeing him already heading towards the room, she quickly followed suit.<br /> Inside the room, the members of the Kingsley family stood around the mattress, maintaining a certain distance.<br /> Scott lit the alcohol lamp and took out the needles, his expression solemn.<br /> He looked at the members of the Kingsley family. "Think about what you want to say to Mr. Kingsley later. Once you're ready, let me know, and then I'll proceed with the acupuncture."<br /> As he said this, tears welled up in many eyes.<br /> "If you don't mind, let me take a look. I have a way." Wesley spoke up, drawing everyone's attention.<br /> Amanda's face darkened. "Who let you in? Get out!"<br /> "Mia, have you lost your mind? Tricked by this trash and actually brought him here as a miracle healer. Get out with him! I'll settle the score with you in a couple of days."<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, at a loss for words.<br /> "Even Mr. Phillips is unable to reverse the situation. What use are you? Get out." Another younger member of the Kingsley family angrily rebuked.<br /> The middle-aged gent added, "We're in no mood right now. You better leave immediately."<br /> "I understand your narrow-mindedness," Wesley continued, "But as a healer, once I see a patient, I cannot stand by and watch him draw his last breath."<br /> "Wesley, you're quite the charlatan. Do you really want to be gone right now?" Amanda's voice was filled with anger.<br /> "Amanda, let me say a few words," Scott interjected, and Amanda fell silent.<br /> Looking at Wesley, Scott began. "Young lad, at my age, I've seen a lot and have a broad perspective. Today, however, I find it hard to remain indifferent. I practiced medicine from the age of sixteen until I stopped seeing patients for a total of seventy years."<br /> "I've saved countless patients from various illnesses. I never easily declare a patient's fate, nor do I believe I have the right to do so."<br /> "But from your recent remarks, it seems like you're accusing me of such actions. Young people wanting to make a name for themselves by stepping on the shoulders of their predecessors, I can understand."<br /> "But this kind of behavior displeases me."<br /> "My displeasure, what does it mean to you? Do you understand?"<br /> "Even if you are a healer, your career will be ruined because of this."<br /> Chapter 6 <br /> In the face of Scott's veiled threats, Wesley simply smiled and brushed them off.<br /> Looking at Scott, he asked, "I've always focused on the issue at hand rather than attacking individuals. I have a few questions for you. If you can't administer the needles, how long do you think Quinn can hold on?"<br /> "Seven days, but he will remain unconscious," Scott replied bluntly.<br /> "Then let me ask you this, is there anyone in the world with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "Outrageous," Amanda coldly interjected, "Mr. Phillips is unparalleled in his medical expertise."<br /> Scott glanced at Amanda. "Amanda, let me handle this question."<br /> Continuing to address Wesley, he said, "I don't underestimate myself, nor do I overestimate. There are countless talented individuals in the world, like stars in the sky. I may not dare claim to be the best in medical skills, but those who surpass me are few."<br /> "That means there are some," Wesley calmly remarked, causing Scott's expression to shift slightly, "Indeed, there are."<br /> "Then let me ask you this. Do you think within seven days, the Kingsley family won't find someone with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "If they do find someone, do you believe there is an illness that you cannot cure, but this person can?"<br /> Wesley's questions were sharp and resounding.<br /> Scott's face changed once more as he was rendered speechless.<br /> "Even if there is, that person will never be you." Amanda's face turned icy. "Now get out. Don't spout your eloquence here. Your deceitful behavior is repulsive."<br /> "Your understanding of me is merely hearsay, isn't it?" Wesley retorted, his gaze mocking Amanda, "Has your background and education taught you such arrogance and prejudice?"<br /> "Arrogance?" Amanda's face grew colder as she disdainfully looked at Wesley. "Prejudice?<br /> "Did I say something wrong just now? You are nothing but stagnant waste, a parasite living off others. If it weren't for Taylor, you would have starved on the streets long ago."<br /> "Relying on sweet words, deceiving Taylor. She, with her kind heart, can't bear to divorce you, but don't push your luck. If it weren't for Taylor's sake, you would have been sent out long ago."<br /> Scott interrupted Amanda, "Amanda, although I find this lad a bit annoying, what he said does hold some truth. There are indeed individuals with better medical skills than me. Your grandfather can hold on for seven days. Try reaching out to see if someone can come over. I'll help you make connections."<br /> "If it really doesn't work out after seven days, I'll administer the needles to your grandfather. However, at that point, I can only buy you three minutes."<br /> As soon as Scott spoke, the faces of the Kingsley family members grew even more solemn. True healers were rare and not easily summoned.<br /> While the Kingsley family had connections in Yeadeo, their influence waned outside of it.<br /> "Mr. Phillips, please administer the needles. Life has its ups and downs, and we understand that. Just buy my father a bit more time." The middle-aged gent spoke up.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family nodded in agreement.<br /> Amanda looked at Scott. "Mr. Phillips, please."<br /> "In that case, please have everyone unrelated leave. I need silence," Scott calmly stated.<br /> Amanda glared at Wesley, her eyes speaking volumes without a word.<br /> The unrelated individuals were, naturally, Wesley and Mia.<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, intending to leave, but she suddenly hesitated.<br /> Instead of leaving, Wesley moved forward.<br /> "What are you doing?" A young member of the Kingsley family stepped forward with a stern expression, pushing Wesley.<br /> In one swift motion, Wesley executed a clean shoulder throw, toppling the young gent to the ground, his own expression turning cold.<br /> "A bunch of fools! If it weren't for my teacher's teachings about not turning a blind eye to those in need, I wouldn't bother with you ignorant lot," Wesley remarked with disdain.<br /> As Wesley effortlessly took down one individual from the Kingsley family, the others seemed slow to react.<br /> By the time they realized what was happening, Wesley had already picked up the needle next to Scott and casually flicked his wrist.<br /> The needle flew out of his hand, piercing Quinn's temple, followed by a second needle, a third needle, and so on.<br /> "What are you doing? Stop!" Amanda's voice rose in urgency, echoed by the rest of the Kingsley family members who rushed forward to restrain Wesley.<br /> "Stay back, everyone. Wait." Scott suddenly stood up, blocking the others. "Let him try."<br /> Amanda and the others were left dumbfounded, thinking, "What does this mean?"<br /> Despite their confusion, they heeded Scott's words.<br /> After Scott stopped the members of the Kingsley family, he fixed his gaze on Wesley.<br /> Wesley proceeded to use eighteen needles in succession, symbolizing the levels of pain.<br /> Even if someone had descended into the depths of hell, they must be brought back.<br /> The final needle, also piercing a vital point, caused Quinn's body to tremble suddenly, resonating with the previous eighteen needles.<br /> Scott's eyes widened, his body trembling slightly. His reaction left Amanda and the others even more puzzled, but none dared to interrupt.<br /> Moments later, Wesley placed a palm on Quinn's chest, causing all eighteen needles to be shaken off. When all the needles landed on the ground, the part of the skin where the needles had pierced turned dark.<br /> Wesley then dragged Quinn to the edge of the mattress, flipped him over with his head facing downwards, and gave him a firm pat on the back.<br /> Quinn spat out a mouthful of black liquid. When Wesley flipped him back to lie flat, his complexion had regained some color.<br /> "The Hand of Darkness... It's the Hand of Darkness!" Scott exclaimed with excitement, his body quivering, "It's the Hand that descends into the dark world, snatching people from the hands of the Evil!"<br /> "You do have some knowledge, recognizing the Hand of Darkness." Wesley glanced at Scott.<br /> Scott's gaze towards Wesley had undergone a drastic change. He respectfully clasped his hands together.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thirty years ago, I had the honor of attending a teaching conference held by Mr. Vanderbilt. I saw the Hand of Darkness, but my limited aptitude only allowed me to grasp the basics."<br /> "I have been blind and ignorant. I apologize for my earlier offenses. Please forgive me, Mr. Harrington."<br /> The Mr. Vanderbilt Scott referred to was Wesley's teacher, Ulysses Vanderbilt. He generously imparted his skills to others, but the ability to learn depended on one's innate talent.<br /> In this world, few could learn Ulysses' skills.<br /> Scott had been fortunate to receive guidance from Ulysses, which had elevated his medical skills. However, the Hand of Darkness, a miraculous ability, was beyond his comprehension.<br /> Wesley smiled faintly, "Your actions earlier are understandable. I appreciate your words."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you must be an exceptional disciple of Mr. Vanderbilt, possessing unparalleled magnanimity. Impressive," Scott continued.<br /> "Enough with the flattery at your age."<br /> "You are mistaken, Mr. Harrington. Every word I speak is sincere."<br /> Mia, Amanda, and the others stood bewildered by the unfolding situation.<br /> "Mr. Phillips... he... he..." Amanda's words faltered.<br /> Scott turned to the members of the Kingsley family. "Meeting Mr. Harrington was Quinn's luck. His symptoms have been cured by Mr. Harrington. With a few days of rest, he will be fine."<br /> The waste Taylor had previously said was called Mr. Harrington by Scott!<br /> Recalling their previous attitudes, Amanda hurriedly apologized, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> The members of the Kingsley family all apologized in unison, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> Chapter 7 <br /> With a faint smile, Wesley remarked, "As family members of a patient, your actions earlier are understandable. There's no need for such formality."<br /> Amanda's perplexity deepened as she thought, "Where is the cowardly waste that Taylor described? This display of magnanimity and breadth is far from it."<br /> Mia, too, felt a shiver of realization, thinking, "No wonder Dad has insisted on my proximity to Wesley.<br /> This guy..."<br /> She gazed at Wesley, her curiosity piqued, a sense of exploration stirring within her.<br /> "Mia has brought you here, Mr. Harrington, to cure my grandfather. The Kingsley family will never forget this act. However, considering that my grandfather's ailment stemmed from the health supplements produced by the Vinver Business Alliance, we will be conducting an investigation into it."<br /> Amanda continued, looking at Wesley, "What do you think... of this approach?"<br /> It was Mia who had invited Wesley, so Amanda had grown wiser, refraining from asking for a direct punishment of the Vinver Business Alliance.<br /> As Mia heard Amanda's words, her heart skipped a beat, realizing trouble was brewing.<br /> "On the way here, Ms. Roberts briefed me on the situation. You conducted experiments on mice, correct?"<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes, the health supplements we received were exclusively provided by the Roberts family. There were no similar cases on the market, so we used mice for testing.<br /> "All the mice that ingested this supplement were gone."<br /> She looked at Mia and added, her voice turning colder, "Before the experiment, I specifically contacted Mia to inquire about the testing methods during the development phase, which involved mice.<br /> "There have been individuals eyeing my grandfather's position, some even wishing for his demise. I never imagined that the Vinver Business Alliance, which I attracted for investment, would become a weapon in someone else's hands."<br /> "Do you have any of the remaining medicine?" Wesley inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes."<br /> "Bring some over."<br /> Immediately, someone fetched the medicine. After it was brought to him, Wesley took out a supplement and swallowed it directly.<br /> This scene left Amanda and the others dumbfounded.<br /> Scott, too, was bewildered. "Mr. Harrington, what are you doing?"<br /> Wesley smiled, "Just proving that this medicine is not toxic."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thank you," Mia thanked sincerely, feeling like crying at that moment.<br /> Amanda, with a puzzled expression, looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, are you suggesting that my grandfather's condition wasn't caused by the Vinver Business Alliance's medicine? What about the mice?"<br /> The rest were equally puzzled.<br /> "Yes, but not entirely," Wesley said, leaving everyone even more bewildered.<br /> Mia's emotions were like a rollercoaster ride, from relief to immediate tension.<br /> "This medicine itself is not toxic, but when taken with another substance made from a certain plant, it results in Quinn's condition. The mice would die immediately, while humans could endure a few more days."<br /> Wesley continued to explain, "The plant used in this concoction is originally meant for crafting slow-acting toxins, not for human consumption."<br /> Looking at Amanda, Wesley said, "During this period, whoever had access to your grandfather and the mice will better understand why these events occurred."<br /> The gaze of members of the Kingsley family immediately focused on a lady.<br /> Amanda, somewhat incredulous, looked at her. "Can you offer an explanation?"<br /> The lady was the wife of Amanda's deceased brother. She found it hard to accept, as did the rest of the Kingsley family.<br /> This lady had been named the exemplary lady who served her family well this year, not due to her connection with the Kingsley family but because she genuinely deserved it.<br /> "What do you mean? Amanda, what explanation do you want from me?"<br /> The lady stared at Amanda. "Am I the only one who had access to Grandfather and the mice? You, and you... and you, who didn't have access?"<br /> "You all claim to treat me as family. Since I married into the Kingsley family, I have worked diligently, contributing my share even if not acknowledged."<br /> "Amanda, it has been over a year since your brother passed, and I never once considered remarrying. Now, just because of his words, you demand an explanation from me?"<br /> Pointing at Wesley, the lady questioned, "Just because he accuses me of poisoning, you suspect me? Tell me, did I poison him?" The lady glared at Wesley.<br /> "I am merely analyzing the facts. As for concluding this case, it's not within my purview," Wesley addressed the members of the Kingsley family, saying, "You should conduct a thorough investigation into this matter.<br /> "I will write a prescription. Have Quinn take it on time, and he will recover in seven days."<br /> Amanda hurried to fetch paper and pen while Wesley prepared the prescription. Once done, he was ready to leave.<br /> Amanda said hurriedly, "Mr. Harrington, I've already made arrangements for lunch."<br /> "No need," Wesley smiled.<br /> The Kingsley family sought to build closer ties with Wesley, given his extraordinary medical skills. Wesley was well aware of this.<br /> Looking at Amanda and the others, Wesley remarked, "In the future, if you encounter any difficult medical cases that others cannot solve, seek me out. Remember, cases others cannot solve."<br /> The gaze of the Kingsley family members toward Wesley changed once again. Many renowned healers had eccentric personalities and were difficult to engage.<br /> They hadn't expected Wesley to possess such remarkable medical skills without any airs.<br /> As Wesley prepared to depart, the members of the Kingsley family did not dare to insist on his stay, so they accompanied him outside.<br /> "Oh, how could we forget such an important matter? Amanda, what about the consultation fee?" The middle-aged gent inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the oversight. Please wait a moment." Amanda hurried back inside and soon returned with a bank card in hand.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, there's one million dollars in here."<br /> Without hesitation, Wesley accepted the bank card and boarded Mia's car.<br /> During the journey, Mia boldly looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, you've helped me immensely. Can I treat you to a meal? Don't decline in a hurry. It's not a fancy restaurant, but it will leave you wanting more. It's a small place on the street, with only eight plates of noodles served each day, each plate containing different ingredients.<br /> "I managed to secure a reservation. Are you interested?"<br /> Wesley thought, "Eight Plates of Noodles? Ah, Aaron's restaurant. It has been a while since I visited those old friends."<br /> Wesley nodded. "Let's go then."<br /> The restaurant, Eight Plates of Noodles, was located on Chanxold Street near the Yeadeo First Central Hospital.<br /> The establishment was small, serving only eight plates of noodles each day at a price of 10 thousand dollars each. Vernoic's television culinary program had specifically covered this incident.<br /> Reservations were a must to secure a plate.<br /> The restaurant's owner had a mysterious background. While the specifics were unknown, a high-ranking noble from the capital of Vernoic, Kingsland, had caused a scene there once.<br /> He had attempted to force his way in without a reservation. Although this incident hadn't been reported, rumors suggested that a garbage truck had to be called to dispose of the intruder's remains, as he was too shattered to be removed by conventional means.<br /> Since then, no one dared to cause trouble.<br /> On their way, Mia introduced Wesley to the background story.<br /> "Mr. Turner, two plates of noodles." Mia called out once they arrived.<br /> Aaron Turner didn't respond but visibly paused upon seeing Wesley beside Mia.<br /> A faint smile appeared on his usually stoic face. Though the flesh on the face seemed stiff, it was indeed a smile. "Coming right up."<br /> Mia glanced at Aaron with a hint of surprise, thinking, "When did he become so warm and enthusiastic? His tone seemed a bit agitated earlier, didn't it?"<br /> Soon enough, Aaron brought two plates of noodles to the table. One steaming hot and the other devoid of any warmth.<br /> As Mia observed Aaron placing the plate without steam in front of Wesley, her expression changed slightly.<br /> It was a plate of instant noodles having soaked in cold water, with the seasoning barely dissolved.<br /> She felt a sense of panic. Mia had wanted to leave a good impression on Wesley, which was why she had chosen this place.<br /> However, Aaron had served such a plate of noodles.<br /> She dared not question Aaron. The type of noodles served here was not determined by the guests but by Aaron's mood.<br /> "This girl named Mia is quite something, living up to her name, and quite kind-hearted," Aaron remarked, looking at Wesley.<br /> "Get lost," Wesley retorted, using his fork to pick up the noodles and devouring them.<br /> Mia's face turned pale instantly. Disrespecting Aaron was akin to risking Wesley's life.<br /> To her astonishment, Aaron chuckled, tears welling up in his eyes.<br /> He wiped them away. "Alright, I'll leave you to your meal."<br /> Before departing, he gave Mia a thumbs-up. "Seize the opportunity."<br /> The eight plates of noodles symbolized the eight comrades who had faced life and life-threatening situations together.<br /> Wesley ate voraciously. Initially, they had only one pack of instant noodles to share among the eight of them, forcing them to divide it.<br /> Despite the circumstances, they devoured the noodles joyfully.<br /> Aaron had promised that once they survived, each one would have the most delicious plate of noodles.<br /> However, five of the eight had perished.<br /> Wesley had come dangerously close to life-threatening situations, but managed to cling to life.<br /> For him, the plate of noodles was not food but the bond of friendship that had shielded him from harm.<br /> "Do you... know each other?" Mia couldn't help but ask, her voice low and curious.<br /> "Some things are better left unknown," Wesley replied.<br /> Mia nodded in understanding, falling silent as they continued eating noodles. She couldn't help stealing glances at Wesley throughout the meal.<br /> This gent had piqued her curiosity even more.<br /> "Wesley, I see. No wonder you agreed to the divorce so readily. You've already found someone else outside."<br /> A sharp voice interrupted their meal.<br /> Taylor approached with a cold expression, accompanied by Henry. | Adoread Romance story | 106 | https://facebook.com/61557113391558 | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1713250800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1846758 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446609 | 1735168089 | 890 | 352207010583266 | 1 | 1.2728151603028E+15 | 1712818800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 118879321169142 | 0 | Popular Novels | 120209495233050155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | video | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712488795 | 1.1887932116914E+14 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436358471_806009891384209_2684266132372405924_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HE9Av0D95vwQ7kNvgEmS0lV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCDViF8XZqvU_yMvt9h1oyJh7xTkqXW9MGUDbKWHrqxXA&oe=666408BB | person_profile | 0 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436105833_1140365634066366_3952715177158861981_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uJqcaroeHmwQ7kNvgHhJHEG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBkETfl3VpEtHTcOuy2El3ClfhLzQck3IhVW-LDhzBI5A&oe=6663DD8A | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.” | Popular Novels | 15 | https://facebook.com/100091852266052 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712473200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846772 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446609 | 1735168092 | 890 | 1069140850840054 | 1 | 1.6241020616592E+15 | 1712473200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 118879321169142 | 0 | Popular Novels | 120209419168010155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | video | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712326282 | 1.1887932116914E+14 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435502558_946389883560239_8063324588779684334_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3lSVDj32REEQ7kNvgGc-WSP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCuou7CW_LdDPfAPN9HkPj1JWF8XUy0ld56qheDpEncQg&oe=6663FF88 | person_profile | 0 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435397278_1606457716805584_6972571707161182820_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QdKAZHmMGhAQ7kNvgGQopeM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCvzkWhvwjjNovBD4SvtO8rO8FqLzX7eiO1bKAoq6wjfg&oe=6663F40E | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.” | Popular Novels | 15 | https://facebook.com/100091852266052 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846796 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446611 | 1735168093 | 890 | 729862859303671 | 1 | 9.4336873082946E+14 | 1712300400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 118879321169142 | 0 | Popular Novels | 120209381868700155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | video | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712247651 | 1.1887932116914E+14 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435871294_268780336201714_7090718203150770316_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ohkKPyR-p2sQ7kNvgGGwG56&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCfeUyohhcaCBDQwgVNKRVx_arz8YQ8BgSMdHi1oRB2Bg&oe=66640B26 | person_profile | 0 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435725707_3482169868595778_6641576492577955232_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zjMeZJLX1MsQ7kNvgEUw0oM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBJk9cc7b5TFU83BLknxEAtJECf86l1Es4bSCLexmhYIg&oe=6663F95D | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 6<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> I wake up with a gasp, sitting up abruptly like a marionette whose strings got yanked. My head starts to spin, but it’s not because there was no gentle introduction to the waking world.<br /> It’s because of the dream.<br /> Because of Claudia.<br /> I clutch my chest and feel that my heart is going haywire. My back is slick with sweat and I can almost feel it soaking my sheets. I close my eyes for a moment, gathering my thoughts, but the first thing I see in the darkness is Claudia’s face. Her voice is ringing in my ears, the first voice I have heard in so many years.<br /> She’s the Siren, the Moon Goddess said. The Alpha’s Voice.<br /> What does that mean? What does it have to do with me? What does that make her? I have more questions than answers and the frustration building up inside me is turning into anger. I don’t want that. I have to focus.<br /> Because if there is one thing I know, it’s that I fucked up by demanding her to leave.<br /> And I need to get her back.<br /> Fueled by the sudden fiery desire to chase after her and hold her down in the castle if I need to, I jump out of bed. I push open the door and startle the guards. I can see them mouthing, “What is the trouble, Alpha?”<br /> I ignore all of them. I just run along the hallway until I find Kiernan’s room. The guards step aside when they see me, so I push open the door, stumbling inside like a sweaty, clumsy ogre.<br /> Meanwhile, Kiernan is still awake, staring through the window. My heart sinks when I see that it’s already daylight outside, but I still have to try. I need to.<br /> Kiernan turns around, frowns at me, and asks, “Your Majesty. What brings you here?”<br /> He knows that it irks me when he calls me that, but I ignore it anyway. 'I need to find the maid, Claudia.'<br /> I thought he would ask why, but he just narrows his eyes. “The maid you kicked out last night? I found her in the freezing cold, just staring into the distance like she couldn’t believe what happened. I actually told her I would talk to you about it, but when I got to your room, you were already asleep.”<br /> His words hit me like arrows to the heart. I can almost picture Claudia standing where I left her, crying and wondering what she did wrong, all the while I was sleeping soundly with no care in the world….<br /> No. I can’t think about that. It hurts too much.<br /> I step back, the tightness in my chest so extreme that I have to inhale and exhale slowly. Every time I blink I see her distraught face and hear her broken voice, appealing her case and showing me that she deserved to stay.<br /> And what did I do? I kicked her right out like she meant nothing.<br /> Like we never had anything together.<br /> I swallow hard. ‘I need her back here. I made a mistake.’<br /> “Then let’s go to the maids’ quarters,” Kiernan offers. “Maybe she’s still there.”<br /> I nod, and together, we barge into the lower floor where the maids stay. The rooms are already empty as they start their day at dawn. Every empty room we pass makes me want to punch something in regret, but I can still catch the sweet scent of Claudia in the air, lingering like a whisper. Finally, we arrive at her room, where her scent is strongest. The door is still closed.<br /> Kiernan lifts his hand to knock, but I’m desperate. I open the door.<br /> And there is one person inside the room. But it’s not Claudia.<br /> It’s a maid I remember as Maia, her best friend here. She whips around as soon as we get in, and I immediately see her swollen eyes and red face.<br /> “Alpha,” she mutters, sinking into a bow. “Gamma. I will go to work as soon as possible.”<br /> “No, take the time you need,” Kiernan says. “You are obviously in distress. What happened?”<br /> My breath gets stuck in my throat. I already know what she’s going to say, but I find myself searching the room in hopes of finding any proof that Claudia actually chose to stay.<br /> However, the room is blissfully empty. Vacated for the next maid.<br /> “Claudia left, Gamma,” she answers. “She said she needed to go back to her family. It was just so unexpected. I asked her if it had something to do with the meeting, and she said no. She said she’s tired of working. I don’t believe that. She always loved working here….”<br /> I freeze in shock. Kiernan glances at me pointedly before turning back to Maia. “I completely understand. Please, take the day off and rest. The Alpha and I will get going now.”<br /> He grabs me by the arm and pulls me out of the room, closing the door behind us. I can’t even walk properly. I can’t believe what I just heard.<br /> After all the bad things I said to her, she still chose to cover for me.<br /> I stop moving as soon as we reach the foyer. I hold onto the stair banister for support, my throat closed up.<br /> Kiernan stands next to me. “What happened, Your Majesty?”<br /> ‘Don’t call me that,’ I sign to him. ‘Go prepare a carriage—no. A horse. Ready a horse for me. I will be setting out soon—’<br /> “No, you’re not,” he interjects, his eyebrows scrunched up. “You are the Alpha King. Do you know what it would mean to the Rogues if they took down the head of the whole land? The revolution would be over!”<br /> ‘Fine, I will do it myself.’ I try to push past him but he blocks me. ‘Move out of my way. I need Claudia back here right now.’<br /> He shakes his head, putting a firm hand on my chest. “You’d have to kill me if you want to leave alone.”<br /> Kiernan is one of my oldest friends and most loyal men. We’ve butted heads many times before, but not like this. I can see his quiet anger, and I know from the look in his eyes that he can feel mine. Still, he stands his ground, staring at me like he’s daring me to attack him right now.<br /> And I almost want to. The thought of Claudia getting farther and farther away is tearing my soul apart.<br /> But I take a deep breath to steady myself. ‘You don’t understand.’<br /> “Then make me understand.”<br /> ‘Claudia is important to me,’ I tell him after a pause. ‘The Moon Goddess told me so. She is the Siren and the Alpha’s Voice. I have to get her back or else—’<br /> “Alpha Achilles.”<br /> He signals me to turn around. I see Carlos standing by the end of the stairs, his torso still wrapped in bandages.<br /> However, he’s not alone. Standing next to him are the Housekeeper and the Chief Butler. Both of them are carrying files, laid out as though they’re asking for advice.<br /> ‘What is this?’ I signal to Carlos. ‘I don’t need any interruptions right now. I have somewhere else to go.’<br /> Carlos shakes his head to stop me. “Alpha… today is the Winter Solstice festival. Our pack is hosting. You cannot go anywhere.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 7<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> The journey from Sangria Amori to my hometown feels long and short at the same time. As I sit there in the carriage watching the palace disappear behind a mountain in the distance and begin to see the tall magnolia trees surrounding the famous springs of my home, I can’t help but feel a mixture of longing and relief.<br /> Longing because it’s been my home for years and years. I have made good memories and bonded with amazing people. I overcame a lot of bad things. I met the one I thought I would know forever.<br /> But the relief comes from the loss of all of that. From the knowledge that from now on, I would be free from that palace and everyone in it.<br /> Especially Achilles.<br /> My heart still makes a little flip at the simple thought of his name. I still have to clench my hands and pierce my own palms with my nails to remind myself that I shouldn’t be thinking about him. But thankfully, I don’t have to acknowledge it because the carriage finally stops. The coachman Peter calls out from the front, smacking the carriage door with his cane. “You’re here now, girl. It’s time to move out.”<br /> I gather all my bags and sling them all on my shoulders, slightly struggling with the weight as I climb down the rickety old carriage. “Thank you so much, Peter.”<br /> I give him a happy salute, about to head to the arch that reads Nightshade Springs. But then, I hear him calling out, “Are you sure you’re going to be safe from here on?”<br /> That makes me pause. So far, throughout the whole journey, I haven’t sensed any Rogues at all. But Peter has a point. The infestation of Rogues is very much real and rampant, and I haven’t been to my hometown in five years. I honestly don’t know what’s waiting in store for me here.<br /> But still, I don’t want to bother him. If there is any danger out here, I would rather face it; I know that he has a family.<br /> So I just smile at him. “I got it, Peter. Thank you again and be careful on your way back!”<br /> He looks uncertain, but he leaves anyway, whipping the horses until they gallop faster. Soon enough, he’s gone.<br /> And I’m alone in the middle of the woods, surrounded by the familiar fresh scent of springs and pine.<br /> The scent of home.<br /> A soft smile appears on my face as I start to walk, following the stone path that leads to the edge of the village where the cemetery is.<br /> I suppose it’s a grim thing to start with, but I’ve been meaning to visit my parents’ graves for the past years. Grief and the start of the revolution put a halt to all of that, so now I feel quite happy that I get to see them, even if it’s just this way.<br /> My mom was a maid like I am. Or was. Either way, she served the palace too, specifically as a handmaiden to the former Queen. My dad was a gardener. She died from deadly flu five years ago, and he followed right after.<br /> Back then, I thought this was unfair. How could they leave me in this world alone? I was resentful. But eventually, I realized that it may have been out of love. He was never able to be apart from her for any period of time, and not even death could stop him from chasing after her.<br /> They told me that they met each other at a gathering for servants, and my father fell in love with my mother when he first heard her sing. I honestly can’t blame him. She had the most wonderful voice, and he always said that I had that beautiful voice too. I never really knew if he was just making that up, but the ones who heard me sing also told me that I do have a pretty voice.<br /> The memory brings a smile to my face, and as I approach their graves, I find myself humming along to the tune of my mother’s lullaby.<br /> Their graves are now covered in ivy. I sweep some of the leaves away and light a candle for them.<br /> I sit there for a while, watching the light flicker on their gravestones. I reach out and feel the warmth, opening my mouth to talk to them like I always did, but that’s when something strikes me.<br /> The sour, rotten smell.<br /> My entire body freezes. I shoot to my feet, clutching my bags closer to me as I look around. My heart is beating in my ears and I almost want to whimper, but it only gets worse when I finally see a single Rogue.<br /> It’s hiding behind gravestones in the distance, its eyes gleaming with hunger and malice as they focus on me. Its low growls make the ground hum. There’s tension in the air, thick and suffocating, telling me it’s been stalking me like prey for a while now. It’s still far but ready to spring. Ready to chase and feed.<br /> And I know that if I take one step back, it will come out and kill me.<br /> I slowly exhale, stepping back and feeling it move with me, keeping the distance between us the same.<br /> Bit by bit, I ease my bags off my shoulders and set them down. The eyes of the Rogue follow my movement like two laser pointers. I slip my hand in my pocket, looking for the silver knife that Maia gave me as a parting gift, ready to it down.<br /> As though on cue, the Rogue leaps into the air as soon as I raise the knife.<br /> But I’m ready this time. I don’t come to meet it. Instead, I stand my ground, waiting for the perfect moment. As soon as it flies midair to pounce on me, I duck right under it and run the knife along its throat.<br /> The Rogue falls to the ground with a whimper. It scrambles to get upright again, but before it can do so, I stomp its fragile head flat with my boot, its blood spattering everywhere.<br /> “Thank the gods,” I mutter, but that’s when I realize that I spoke too soon.<br /> As soon as the Rogue stops moving, the forest seems to come alive right before me. More Rogues emerge from the trees, sniffing and snarling, their eyes alight with joy when they see a perfectly good meal severely outnumbered.<br /> All at once, they jump toward me.<br /> A scream breaks out of my lips. I raise my bags to shield myself, but at this point, it’s only a matter of time before they take me down and feast on me. I’m only waiting for the pain now….<br /> But before it can come, I hear loud bangs in the distance. Gunshots. Followed by the loud thuds of the Rogues hitting the ground, dropping like dead flies.<br /> I lower my bags in horror. All the Rogues are dead, their heads bleeding from a single smoking puncture wound between their eyes. I’m about to turn around to see my savior, but then I feel the still-hot muzzle of the gun against my back.<br /> “Drop your knife if you want to live. Who are you and what do you need?”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 8<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The first thing that rises out of me is not frustration from being told what to do, but embarrassment from forgetting about the big event. I know that Carlos just had a bad injury that he’s still most likely dealing with, but I have a situation on my hands that I just can’t shake off, but I can't help but avert my gaze in shame.<br /> Carlos, Kiernan, and the two head staff are staring at me expectantly, and I just want to sink into the ground and never reappear.<br /> I look over at Kiernan, who gives me a small shrug like he’s telling me that it’s all up to me.<br /> The obvious thing to do is to just delay the festival and focus on the very important task of finding Claudia. But I know that my people are counting on this one single happy day among all the bad ones. They need this. And as much as I need Claudia here with me, they come first.<br /> I take a deep, steadying breath. ‘I apologize. It must have slipped my mind. Prepare the decorations and we shall have a lunch banquet in the throne room.’<br /> Carlos nods and repeats my words to the head staff. Then, he turns back to me and asks, “How about the evening celebrations?”<br /> ‘We’ll see,’ I sign to him.<br /> With that, the head staff both bow and leave. Now it’s only the three of us, and they look pained.<br /> “So what’s been happening?” Carlos splutters at last. “Where are you going?”<br /> Kiernan is the one who answers for him. “He kicked out the maid, Claudia, and now he has to bring her back because the Moon Goddess told him so in a dream. He wants to go out there himself.”<br /> ‘I have to,’ I tell them both. 'I still do, but with the festival..."<br /> And of course, they just look at me like they feel sorry for me. I’m about to tell them both to supervise so I can go, but then Kiernan sighs and says, “I’ll get some of our warriors, and we will go and find her.”<br /> Without giving me a chance to say anything about this, Kiernan leaves. Carlos then looks at me and beckons me to go up the stairs.<br /> “After you, Alpha. Let’s give the people a good celebration.”<br /> * * *<br /> When I arrive at the throne room after changing into my formal suit, it is already decked with blue and silver decorations fit for the winter solstice theme. Food is flowing in, music is playing, and it seems that all the citizens are gathering.<br /> When Carlos and I enter, it takes me a whole while to notice that the throne room isn’t even halfway filled. As I sit on my throne, I see that my people are not eating, drinking, or having fun at all. They are just gathered at the little tables, engaged in serious conversation.<br /> More people are coming in, greeted by the butlers by the door. I keep thinking that this new batch will come and let loose, but they just gather like the rest of the guests.<br /> It’s starting to make me nervous. I agreed to this party thinking it would be best for their morale, but it seems that they’re just as uninterested in the occasion as I was.<br /> ‘This is not going well,’ I tell Carlos, who’s standing on my right side. He’s not fully recovered yet, but he insisted on coming here. ‘It would be best to cut this short.’<br /> As soon as I say those words, guilt starts to drum in my chest. I know that I should try to make things more festive instead of thinking about Claudia, but not knowing how things are on that front is almost as bad as being here and seeing my people feeling blue.<br /> “I think it would be best if you go down and communicate with them personally,” Carlos says, and I can’t believe I never thought of that before.<br /> I get up from my throne with the full intent of going around, but then I see a familiar face by the door. Someone I really don’t want to see.<br /> Alpha Tristan.<br /> He’s still wearing a coat, speckled with snow. The butler tries to take it from him but he pushes him away, which makes me tense up, immediately ready for a fight. However, he’s not alone. Walking behind him like lapdogs are the Alphas of his neighboring packs: Giorgio, Anthony, and Larkin.<br /> Their auras are so domineering and so distracting that the people in the throne room stop what they’re doing and just watch them approach me. But instead of meeting them halfway, I remain standing in front of the throne with the steps of the dais separating us.<br /> None of them bows down to me.<br /> “What are you doing here?” Carlos asks, and it perfectly reflects what’s in my mind, just more polite.<br /> Tristan flashes me a smirk. “We’re here because we’re tired of the preposterous games that Sangria Amori is playing. We need change!”<br /> Even though I can’t hear him, I can feel the vibrations of his scream on the walls and the floor. He’s livid, and because of this, the people in the room are tuning in.<br /> I don’t like the admiring and interested looks on their faces. I look at Carlos. ‘We shouldn’t have this talk here.’<br /> “Alpha Tristan.” Carlos gives him a strained smile, motioning him to come along. “We shall move this conversation to a more private location and perhaps—”<br /> “Get your hands off me.” Tristan pushes past him and squares up to me. “What you’re doing to these people is sickening. Making them show up here, forced to have fun, when they are suffering from problems you would never know about from your high throne. You’re making a mockery of their situation, flaunting your privilege in their faces.”<br /> I want to push him down the steps and pound his face into a pulp, but I restrain myself. Instead, I just sign something that Carlos translates with perfect contempt.<br /> “Get out, right now.”<br /> Tristan only scoffs, facing the people. “Last night, instead of meeting with the rest of the Alphas and coming up with a way to erase the Rogues, Alpha King Achilles was late. He left us on our own when we had a Rogue attack. It’s painfully obvious that his disabilities have made him selfish, and unfit to rule our land.”<br /> This time, my temper gets the best of me. I grab him by the arm with the full intent of punching him in the face as soon as he turns, but I stop when the people gasp.<br /> They’re now looking at me in horror.<br /> I slowly let him go. He starts to walk away, step by step, not taking his eyes off me. There’s a certain gleam in his eyes that I can’t identify, but the hairs on the back of my neck are standing on end.<br /> Only when he’s standing by the door do I know why.<br /> “We will no longer take orders from the Alpha King,” Tristan declares, his gaze still on me. “We will handle the Rogues our way, the right way. And those who want to join us would be offered full protection.”<br /> With that, he leaves.<br /> And I watch in horror as some of my citizens begin to get up from their seats, following him out.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 9<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> “Don’t shoot me,” I mutter, and I cringe when I hear the fear in my voice. I hate that I faced that single Rogue like a boss only to fold like this. “I’m not a danger to anyone. I’m a local here. I just moved for work at the palace…”<br /> I stop when I realize I’m about to ramble. I just drop the knife. As soon as it clatters on the floor, I feel the muzzle of the gun easing off my back. I take this as a cue to turn around, and I come face to face with a young man about my age, with straw-colored hair and brown eyes. He’s carrying a massive silver shotgun with rounds of big silver bullets around his body.<br /> He’s studying me closely, fixing his flannel shirt. “Who are you?”<br /> “Claudia Hale,” I say shakily. I even bow, which is dumb, but I guess it’s not so stupid if it stops him from shooting me. “I just came here to visit my parents.”<br /> At first, he doesn’t say anything. My nerves are starting to act up and I find myself basically skipping in my spot. But finally, he asks, “Hale, huh? Do you happen to be related to Ruth?”<br /> My eyes go wide. “Yes! Ruth is my cousin.”<br /> The man’s shoulders relax. He cracks a smile, and suddenly he doesn’t seem so scary anymore. “You must be the cousin she talks about a lot. The singer. I’m Max, by the way. Follow me.”<br /> We shake hands, and I can’t help but feel giddy.<br /> My cousin Ruth is here. I can’t believe it. We were very close as kids, even though we only saw each other over the summers. She left Nightshade Springs when we were both eighteen, and the last thing I heard about her was that she got married to a mason from the nearby village. We saw each other at my dad’s funeral, but we didn’t get to talk much because of my own grief.<br /> But now, I’m going to see her. I wonder if she has kids now.<br /> The thought of little babies running around makes me so excited, so much so that I almost forget to follow Max as he leads me out of the cemetery through an unfamiliar path. I quickly pick up the knife and run after him.<br /> I frown as I pull level with Max. "Why are we using this path?"<br /> The moment the question leaves my lips, the answer comes to me when we turn a corner.<br /> For the first time, I come face to face with the aftermath of the Rogue infestation.<br /> The village is now completely deserted. The houses are dilapidated, empty and broken. The smell of Rogues is present, but distant, which tells me that the place is visited frequently but they're not actually here. Dried blood is scattered all over the ground like paint.<br /> "That's animal blood," Max explains, following the direction of my gaze. "We vacated this place a long time ago. We still live in this area, but we decided to stick close together to protect ourselves from the Rogues. We figured that it would be best if we show them a strong front. The Kingdom doesn't really do much for us, so we have to take matters into our own hands."<br /> I swallow hard, averting my gaze as we turn another corner, a hidden path behind a small hill.<br /> "Does the Kingdom not visit the villages at all?" I ask.<br /> Max shakes his head. "Nope. Not at all. They send guards from time to time, but you see how many Rogues there are. You know how violent they can be. We needed weapons to protect ourselves, but they just won't provide that. I think they keep it to themselves, leave everyone else defenseless."<br /> I keep quiet. I don't know what to say. Part of me wants to defend the palace. I mean, I know they have it hard, and Achilles is doing his best. But then again, who am I to dismiss their suffering?<br /> I open my mouth to ask where they got their weapons, but then we arrive at a fenced part of the village. Barbed wires are set on tall metal walls, behind which small compact buildings stand proud.<br /> He opens the gate carefully, and we both enter. There are a couple of villages standing watch, carrying guns similar to his. They stare at me, and I have to lower my head to avoid the intensity of their looks.<br /> I want to tell Max that I just want to see Ruth, but before I can get the question out, I see two people running towards me.<br /> I look up and my heart nearly gives out when I see that it's Ruth, together with a tall bearded man who must be her husband.<br /> "Claudia!" she squeals, and before I can even drop my bags, she scoops me up into a big hug. "You're home! It's been so long!"<br /> I blink the tears away when she lets me go. "I figured it was time to retire and just stay here."<br /> I feel guilty. I lied to Maia and now I'm lying to Ruth.<br /> “You loved that job, but I do understand,” she says, and I can’t help but be thankful that she didn’t press me for more details. “This is my husband, Henry. We live in one of the apartments. You can stay with us if you like, but I think it would be best if you get your own room.”<br /> “It’s nice to meet you,” Henry says, taking my bags from me. “I will take these up to your room.”<br /> I smile. “Thank you so much.”<br /> He and Max leave, and Ruth takes my arm, steering me into a small structure at the foot of one of the buildings. I can hear cheers and smell food from outside, and I find myself relaxing when I see that it’s a pub. Men and women alike are laughing and talking, downing jugs of beer and eating fried food. It’s quite fascinating to see so much life and joy in a single space in this lost land, but I can’t help but feel grateful.<br /> Ruth and I sit on the counter. The bartender slides two jugs of beer and a platter of steaming chips. I grab the chips even though they’re hot, stuffing them all in my mouth and drinking the beer. Everything is strangely fresh, and I can’t help but gobble it all up. Ruth watches me with amusement as she sips her drink.<br /> “Do they not feed you up there?” she jokes, shaking her head. “Honestly, I don’t blame you for going home. It must have been hell there.”<br /> My appetite suddenly vanishes. “Well, it’s not so bad. But nothing like home, yes.” I clear my throat, desperate for a change of topic. “So, Max found me in the cemetery. He’s… an interesting character.”<br /> “I know, he mind-linked it to me.” She shrugs. “Max is kind of an asshole, but I get why. He had to step up as our leader when the palace guards left us. He looted all those guns that we use now, so the only thing we have to forge are bullets. Screw the Kingdom and that deaf-mute idiot who rules it.”<br /> My face goes hot. I want to defend Achilles. I want to tell Ruth not to call him that, but then again, he kicked me out for defending him.<br /> “Is everyone doing the same?” I start to ask, but then a small commotion breaks out in the corner of the pub where the entrance is.<br /> “Hey, keep that bastard out!” I hear some of the men yelling.<br /> “He barged right in and demanded entry!”<br /> “It’s one of those palace fuckers!”<br /> I freeze. Ruth and I both slide out of our stools, looking over at the chaos.<br /> My heart jumps right into my throat when I see Gamma Kiernan trying to force his way inside the pub.<br /> “Bring me Claudia Hale, and we will not have any problems.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 10<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Panic takes a hold of me. Suddenly, I feel my entire body going numb. I can feel Ruth beside me and I can hear her saying something, but it’s like my mind is tuning out. All I can hear are muffled voices. All I can feel is my heart hammering inside my ribs like it wants to get out.<br /> I blink a couple of times as we get pushed back by the ongoing commotion. For a moment I’m certain that I’m not seeing things correctly, but I’m wrong.<br /> Gamma Kiernan is really here, and he’s looking for me.<br /> “No way you’re getting in,” the men at the entrance keep telling him. “Pack it up and leave!”<br /> “I will not leave until you bring Claudia Hale here,” he insists. “I can smell her scent in the air. I know you’re hiding her. Back off, and no one gets hurt.”<br /> “How dare you threaten us?”<br /> With that, the chaos ensues. Now there are so many men blocking his way, and soon enough, women are clamoring to shoo him out of the pub too. I can see his expression. I know that he can take these men down if he wants to, but he’s restraining himself.<br /> The urge to step up and show myself before things get ugly overcomes me, but then Ruth wheels around and dunks my head down, preventing me from getting seen.<br /> “Why the hell are they looking for you?” Ruth demands. “Did you do something?”<br /> “No,” I begin to say, but that’s when I feel a strong hand dragging me back.<br /> “Ow!” I complain under my breath, feeling myself getting yanked back into the corner by this strong person. I turn around and see Max. He’s squeezing my arm so hard that I can almost feel the bruises appearing. “Let me go!”<br /> He just glares at me. “You are not going to show yourself to that upstart. You’re going to stay here behind the bar. Understand?”<br /> “No!” I snatch my arm back from him. “Do you want your people to get hurt?”<br /> His eyes flash with anger. “You’re really assuming we’re the ones who’d get hurt? You put too much faith in those men who don’t do anything but sit on their asses and command the lower people to fight for them.”<br /> I realize that he’s referring to the palace royals, including Achilles. His claims are so false that I square up to him, shoving him back. “You have no idea what you’re talking about! Those men risk their lives for us!”<br /> “Maybe for you,” Max growls dryly, “but never for me.”<br /> The next events happen so fast. So much so that I don’t even get the time to react. Max just grabs me by the shoulders, pushes me right into the broom closet, and props a chair against the doorknob to basically lock it from outside. I fall on the floor, flat on my behind, but then I spring up to my feet to try to ram it down.<br /> “Let me out!” I scream, but I doubt anyone would hear me from the absolute meltdown happening outside.<br /> I could shift into my wolf and break the door, but I think I would end up demolishing half the pub in the process. So even though I want to end this, I just stay by the door, pressing my ear against it and listening as best as I can.<br /> That’s when I hear Max announcing, “Silence, everyone. Let the man speak.”<br /> The people immediately shut up, which surprises me. It seems that everyone really recognizes him as their leader. I can almost picture him stepping up to Gamma Kiernan.<br /> “Thank you,” Gamma Kiernan says. “As I was trying to say before I got swarmed, I need Claudia Hale.”<br /> “Why?” Max asks in a calm, almost lazy tone.<br /> “Because the Alpha King says so,” Gamma Kiernan replies in a similar voice. “We don’t want any trouble with the King, do we?”<br /> “Oh, no, we don’t,” Max answers, but this time, he sounds perfectly sarcastic. I can hear the others around him letting out a laugh. “We really don’t. But you see, Claudia isn’t here.”<br /> Silence fills the air. I want to scream at the top of my lungs to alert everyone of my presence, but I’m stunned. Petrified, really. Did the Gamma really say that it’s Alpha Achilles who’s asking for me?<br /> But why? Why would he look for me? It hasn’t even been a day since I left. Does he regret all the things he did, all the things he said to me? Did he realize that I didn’t actually do anything wrong, and he punished me out of pure pride and possibly stupidity?<br /> Now that’s something I want to hear. I want him to say sorry.<br /> I’m about to scream when suddenly, I hear Gamma Kiernan saying, “I can smell her. Do not fucking lie to me.”<br /> Somehow, I’m able to sense something about to go wrong before it even transpires. I make a move to ram the door down before things can break out, but it’s too late.<br /> Before I can even do anything, I hear Max saying in a low voice, “Deal with this bastard.”<br /> And then, hell breaks loose.<br /> It’s so loud I can almost see it. The men in the pub all yell for battle and the sounds that follow root me to my spot. More screams. Thuds from bodies hitting the floor and the walls. Broken glass. Snapping wood. Arrows whizzing. Wolves howling. Gunshots. So many gunshots….<br /> Soon enough, the smell of blood fills the air, and my heart nearly stops.<br /> It seems to go on forever, the sound and the smell and the carnage. I can make out specific voices like Gamma Kiernan’s, telling his men to stand down and leave. I can hear Max telling his people to pursue them, to drive them back and make sure they learn their lesson. On and on and on it goes.<br /> But just when I think that it’s never going to end, silence follows.<br /> It’s almost eerie. One can hear a pin drop. Who got shot? Did anyone die?<br /> The thought of death because of me is what finally breaks me. I ram down the door without shifting into my wolf form, but when I arrive at the bar, it’s too late. I can hear the sound of horses whinnying outside, their hooves hitting the ground in loud thuds as they run fast. I see the flash of the red carriage through the broken windows.<br /> I look all over the floor to see if anyone has fallen, but aside from the smears of blood, it seems that everyone made it out alive.<br /> At least, from this party.<br /> I don’t know if I can say the same about the people from the palace.<br /> Suddenly, Max enters the pub, sporting a broken nose. He tears off a piece of his shirt and uses it to dab on the blood, but I march toward him and snatch it right out of his hand. “What did you do?”<br /> “Showed them that they have no business here,” he says simply, taking the strip of fabric back from me. “The only thing I should be hearing from you is thank you, unless…”<br /> Everyone in the pub looks at me.<br /> Ruth is the one who gets up and turns to me. “What did you do, Claudia? Why are they looking for you?”<br /> Max crosses his arms. "Give us a good reason why we shouldn't kick you out of here. Now." | Popular Novels | 15 | https://facebook.com/100091852266052 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846811 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446611 | 1735168094 | 890 | 1426859107917810 | 4 | 1.0750287970217E+15 | 1715065200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120206467056180695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1712240564 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434887251_3273516259616813_4965928032027185860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ITie4m6mDmcQ7kNvgF39Sy7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAcTA20T57nzysouEuK_o7pZp3Y0XqyL2fgucP3yDHGEg&oe=6663EDC2 | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434948003_814909497119687_9211098532922127326_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x7WiDOdWsTYQ7kNvgESVFnJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBulFosd9SXN4G0tMRKNSznqK_fnZdYowVwZ6iongagTg&oe=66640C13 | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846813 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446611 | 1735168094 | 890 | 1426859107917810 | 4 | 1.0750287970217E+15 | 1715065200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120206467056180695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1712240564 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434887251_3273516259616813_4965928032027185860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ITie4m6mDmcQ7kNvgF39Sy7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAcTA20T57nzysouEuK_o7pZp3Y0XqyL2fgucP3yDHGEg&oe=6663EDC2 | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434948003_814909497119687_9211098532922127326_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x7WiDOdWsTYQ7kNvgESVFnJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBulFosd9SXN4G0tMRKNSznqK_fnZdYowVwZ6iongagTg&oe=66640C13 | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846837 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446612 | 1735168099 | 890 | 762839158896609 | 4 | 1.1317853814759E+15 | 1711695600 | regular_page | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 1 | 102319128528352 | 1 | 522 Records | 6610660599670 | www.whoshwqw.shop | Learn more | NONE | video | https://www.whoshwqw.shop/products/manba?campaign_id=%7B%7Bcampaign.id%7D%7D&adset_id=%7B%7Badset.id%7D%7D&ad_id=%7B%7Bad.id%7D%7D | 1711634664 | 1.0231912852835E+14 | 522 Records | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434385781_754750006429048_9077005728782961464_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Be6kErmGbFAQ7kNvgGMCF5H&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA5YVIbkj55rFZp0rGCaLRFljsIxGNWEEghQK6YPnvdSg&oe=6663F9F5 | regular_page | 0 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711609200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846860 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446613 | 1735168103 | 890 | 1348360672492527 | 2 | 6.2641737964214E+14 | 1711177200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120205964712910695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1711125624 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433684869_457092449981648_3407831440630043047_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vdgH8MET4DoQ7kNvgEkqJ58&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA8OIpSfPQ80zQkaZRIX3q5iD6UByTodITwGJcdx6zWnA&oe=6663EE1C | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433545868_283000594837085_6561487442196160306_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yvXE2Vk-7WcQ7kNvgEXCk-b&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBdQRjOslElJgzuB1KVaGLdv3mRYZu_snD_7exSRYrbCQ&oe=666409AA | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711090800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846657 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/23/25, 11:28 AM | 1717446606 | 1742747335 | 890 | 1486534535612222 | 1 | 4.5517598037622E+14 | 1715670000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 107516154957955 | 0 | Novedades y Mochilas Guille | 120209340695600471 | icefacibuy.top | Learn more | NONE | video | https://icefacibuy.top/products/bluevibe?campaign_id={{campaign.id}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}} | 1715581793 | 1.0751615495796E+14 | Novedades y Mochilas Guille | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438242115_2232976187038226_5363926898240377529_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qXw3RQDM5T8Q7kNvgHEXjd2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCKOYBc_cYavv-NhPbNa7ludDcZ_VhFnVTNnSNCvV5zVQ&oe=666413BF | person_profile | 0 | Novedades y Mochilas Guille | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438216068_1084427325970745_4517676506367035297_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TTfUdZ1gi4QQ7kNvgGo5wY3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBlRHJmzNoJ75IjDc2iwly4FgsUQjaCj4mXxgsfjjewIw&oe=6663F597 | 0 | 3 | Novedades y Mochilas Guille | 89 | https://facebook.com/100024874876967 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715583600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846618 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/23/25, 7:14 PM | 1717446604 | 1742775255 | 890 | 1185279842914405 | 1 | 4.2307199063536E+14 | 1716793200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 217316998627741 | 0 | Frost & Flame：King of Avalon | 120209481064410783 | play.google.com | Play game | NONE | video | Play for FREE! | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.funplus.kingofavalon | 1716262128 | 2.1731699862774E+14 | Frost & Flame：King of Avalon | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442417081_1172596744046814_3852445922968623114_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nELj-C6o3xUQ7kNvgHEcbRw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAYWps3VmvUd8Mlvf8A4tniVf6jf0LEdaPT8VO9YIguEQ&oe=66640F8B | person_profile | 0 | King of Avalon | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441463961_298327200004158_6354767276563347860_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XP0ME3oUlDYQ7kNvgE8AsV-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDm8VRZhtvSnYUsFR_QuyJxTw5SZvsqZb5W2XbUo_zdwA&oe=6663DF07 | 0 | 3 | That Game Everyone's Playing! Join Now! | Frost & Flame：King of Avalon | 1213145 | https://facebook.com/koadw | 0 | PLAY_GAME | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846658 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/23/25, 8:19 PM | 1717446606 | 1742779165 | 890 | 465081499229105 | 3 | 7.6363614576005E+14 | 1715670000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 107516154957955 | 0 | Novedades y Mochilas Guille | 120209255171870708 | icefacibuy.top | Learn more | NONE | video | https://icefacibuy.top/products/bluevibe?campaign_id={{campaign.id}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}} | 1715539077 | 1.0751615495796E+14 | Novedades y Mochilas Guille | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441063045_1164500861387944_1580494511453171511_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pP2svytoMFkQ7kNvgGH-_S2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYABLaC2H0jwoXdnLCz6-MtNPy7eKQLfCkuSW7YuZcxWWQ&oe=6663DF61 | person_profile | 0 | Novedades y Mochilas Guille | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441156867_1119427715937176_2543192192106101880_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NnOAYPU9fKEQ7kNvgFxB5pF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAzmh8gzd_zjceXs0D2it7XlcPcRxq3yjM-wa_cOihWlA&oe=6663EA8E | 0 | 3 | Novedades y Mochilas Guille | 89 | https://facebook.com/100024874876967 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715583600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846614 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 4/24/25, 3:56 AM | 1717446604 | 1745485007 | 890 | 241037599094213 | 2 | 9.3356670827432E+14 | 1716793200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 217316998627741 | 0 | Frost & Flame：King of Avalon | 120209480460090783 | play.google.com | Play game | NONE | video | Play for FREE! | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.funplus.kingofavalon | 1716260850 | 2.1731699862774E+14 | Frost & Flame：King of Avalon | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445095996_8163703280331245_3206354831623512797_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=iCrOBtjwuhgQ7kNvgFLLN5h&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCvHaUIRfSR3xH9QTQnXVg7fdc5w7C010GnTG3UbzvzXw&oe=6663FF55 | person_profile | 0 | King of Avalon | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/443820265_691143876423843_457777522234435208_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZiOsfO5NBOUQ7kNvgHXN4aP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAQ5ZeHjUx12SGXRoJBJNZl5tApxSe2VRXUtE_muTG4zg&oe=6663DD56 | 0 | 3 | That Game Everyone's Playing! Join Now! | Frost & Flame：King of Avalon | 1213145 | https://facebook.com/koadw | 0 | PLAY_GAME | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846598 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 5/3/25, 7:45 PM | 1717446604 | 1746319550 | 890 | 981868836432078 | 1 | 1.4343547106195E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 141294799366600 | 0 | UMP ''La Esperanza'' | 120211497349160231 | kitigan.com | Get offer | NONE | video | https://kitigan.com/ | 1717139798 | 1.412947993666E+14 | UMP ''La Esperanza'' | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445522976_1526891841504147_3787985081334639719_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MsGorSq7BqoQ7kNvgGb84M6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDKNILl2meaHXz9XTJgRlPr0M9WxCKezuMpfZDSzZ_osA&oe=6663F6C0 | person_profile | 0 | UMP ''La Esperanza'' | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447203381_476783558342526_1708637998349818325_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7VJl_MQCEucQ7kNvgFZSEyT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB4xPKI38CG6y3m-PFnMZTw5zXfDBxGAoM7MyFBvtruPw&oe=6663E644 | 0 | 3 | If you're reading this, 😱<br /> Celebrate your success! You're among the fortunate 2,973 individuals who have secured a TenPoint Nitro 505 for just $9.95 in our giveaway, 🥳 | UMP ''La Esperanza'' | 437 | https://facebook.com/UMPesperanza | 0 | GET_OFFER | 1717138800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846665 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 2:45 AM | 1717446606 | 1742802339 | 890 | 816075273269946 | 1 | 1.2077429106369E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 528686483906620 | 0 | The Book Folks | 6581304895381 | amazon.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Three bestselling mysteries 99¢ on Kindle now! | A super-value box set of the first three detectives Sunita Roy and Gavin Roscoe murder mysteries set in the Midlands, written by Tony Bassett. Just 99¢ now. FREE with Kindle Unlimited. | https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D3JW4NX1 | 1715252305 | 5.2868648390662E+14 | The Book Folks | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440968051_460028913222873_3111979919942169086_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Medrr6h5FvgQ7kNvgG_zbBA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDmPGa3nLbquaN_TrA_B03f9CiRFYqj3YfOjcaYDdDK2A&oe=666403D6 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Meet detective Sunita Roy as she tackles urban crime and a white man's world. Just 99¢ on Kindle... Start binge-reading now!⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | The Book Folks | 9334 | https://facebook.com/thebookfolks | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846663 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 4:53 AM | 1717446606 | 1742810004 | 890 | 443096128437412 | 1 | 9.7460767766272E+14 | 1715670000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 100593092579744 | 0 | Mallorca Helicopters | 120209280158440417 | instagram.com | Visit Instagram profile | NONE | video | http://instagram.com/mallorcahelicopters | 1715380054 | 1.0059309257974E+14 | Mallorca Helicopters | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441352257_436668662293465_8549097780051348671_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=eNxcmShbj5sQ7kNvgEuU_AM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD4Wprq0Tv0PaBglMoR3A7EeYoD9mEQql80RgMCNv0PDA&oe=6663E2F6 | person_profile | 0 | Mallorca Helicopters | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442492596_1473100876939848_425348754512981877_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gBR7b4b4K1kQ7kNvgFL2xTK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCzr_qTsh_4pToJ8aQxz33LBbl4BJ_3DSjcNPMlcdc_dQ&oe=6663E398 | 0 | 3 | WAIT FOR IT…… Like a scene straight out of GTA ✈️ Palma Internacional Airport | Mallorca | Mallorca Helicopters | 4382 | https://facebook.com/Mallorcahelicopters | 0 | VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE | 1715324400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846651 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 5:42 AM | 1717446605 | 1742812959 | 890 | 474330448585943 | 1 | 2.3646796288537E+14 | 1717311600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 141294799366600 | 0 | UMP ''La Esperanza'' | 6613296972841 | sekeljic.com | Get offer | NONE | video | https://sekeljic.com/ | 1715776232 | 1.412947993666E+14 | UMP ''La Esperanza'' | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441363437_482042347591464_8519962257111872976_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lcYXii4yZS4Q7kNvgEaKjNw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA1L113wMD99R-mRGq8nBt9bloB1yDzBgleky708lgc1w&oe=6663FB6B | person_profile | 0 | UMP ''La Esperanza'' | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441393653_334343382746020_3098062609463743580_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DEbOdjcLJlEQ7kNvgEF6lhd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYByYqhMQx6n-Bfey1gtkFDkn-B2f8CwxoVnF-86U0jI0w&oe=6664082E | 0 | 3 | If you're reading this, 😱<br /> Celebrate your success! You're among the fortunate 3,000 individuals who have secured a TenPoint Nitro 505 for just $10 in our giveaway, 🥳 | UMP ''La Esperanza'' | 437 | https://facebook.com/UMPesperanza | 0 | GET_OFFER_VIEW | 1715756400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846534 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 5:44 AM | 1717446603 | 1742813059 | 890 | 1493803491343971 | 1 | 7.986120851398E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1646594815650857 | 0 | SWAT Broadheads | 120209243069170302 | swatbroadheads.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | https://swatbroadheads.com/ | 1717240388 | 1.6465948156509E+15 | SWAT Broadheads | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442493152_864498768838843_2460759072331702302_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NbktKXzHOB0Q7kNvgHWluBJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA9Lr-mHbwxHf4oCNdjpEUr30oE9BEEUBjYnBCKDdbzJw&oe=66640437 | person_profile | 0 | SWAT Broadheads | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444151684_1648151202604899_5011539390087472934_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CcXXm3fkIDsQ7kNvgFh6P30&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAonGL84DHXy180CLQLsXyR7OvUYtrq8n9bquYEQTMAng&oe=6663DE15 | 0 | 3 | SWAT Broadheads | 9826 | https://facebook.com/swatbroadheads | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846637 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 6:47 AM | 1717446605 | 1742816879 | 890 | 292184883967378 | 4 | 3.1484091499465E+14 | 1716015600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 313000321890712 | 0 | Gaqqueb | 120210952886300454 | xorcyp.com | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐤𝐫𝐮𝐩𝐭𝐜𝐲 𝐒𝐚𝐥𝐞👉👉 Buy More Save More!!! | https://www.vyjnggf.com/products?handler=outdoor-gear&token=8H9tgskk | 1715768971 | 3.1300032189071E+14 | Gaqqueb | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436481696_443500681960150_285019546833616229_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bJmVExMpC9oQ7kNvgHLSj6K&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAACkzp9dtGyQV5G_OSqw1MkwjCIfK49OpQfV7HN_cLig&oe=6663EC84 | person_profile | 0 | Gaqqueb | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441540521_7429368013847753_7046223710132103922_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nj5gWF4badQQ7kNvgHHp7bA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC532Nr560MymZejsH2KswY2CsPLM4HnWYAO1GyLhIA0g&oe=6663E429 | 0 | 3 | Gaqqueb | 1 | https://facebook.com/61558872900229 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715842800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846579 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:06 PM | 1717446604 | 1735168015 | 890 | 1773390899734967 | 1 | 9.5367610295634E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212380543420779 | shopcrossbow.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | {{product.name}} | {{product.description}} | https://shopcrossbow.com/products/tobacco-ryan?utm_campaign={{campaign.name}} | 1716053826 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441204429_441312582197817_4027039784229538894_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kLWk3Y944g4Q7kNvgFGJF0a&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB0_9V0VcS3GqMfXvvLUcCZoq5YQDqAzCuyrQtC3odvNg&oe=6663F9D5 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440951712_974439190568834_6987641884478283496_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YSCIfFp7kxcQ7kNvgGYdKv8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC5q92Cz9f-E2O5XyQvVzGEDLfETOlf8ypaqkME8jGf3Q&oe=6663F06B | 0 | 3 | Handmade in Telluride, Colorado | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846567 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 6/2/25, 2:25 AM | 1717446603 | 1748849154 | 890 | 2110899749287440 | 1 | 3.7026070466783E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212383726810779 | shoptelluride.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | {{product.name}} | {{product.description}} | https://shopcrossbow.com/products/chocolate-hip-pouch?utm_campaign={{campaign.name}} | 1716060636 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442493750_1831389450663269_94108996854114840_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=b7eG7xgr4NIQ7kNvgHxlfC3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCOvaILvvXCb64PUbLI4iorm672yXCzIcwSm3vRdmQRmg&oe=6663E554 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/443697088_1522717131928303_4215630315689573314_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_tkVoKJrSMsQ7kNvgE3zc9C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBgn9jI-39-v-hRUk6JdlpDMQpJ1ePeMqsDWdm1TeTxJg&oe=6663F581 | 0 | 3 | Handmade in Telluride, Colorado | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716015600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846568 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:06 PM | 1717446603 | 1735168016 | 890 | 2110899749287440 | 1 | 3.7026070466783E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212383726810779 | shoptelluride.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | {{product.name}} | {{product.description}} | https://shopcrossbow.com/products/chocolate-hip-pouch?utm_campaign={{campaign.name}} | 1716060636 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442493750_1831389450663269_94108996854114840_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=b7eG7xgr4NIQ7kNvgHxlfC3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCOvaILvvXCb64PUbLI4iorm672yXCzIcwSm3vRdmQRmg&oe=6663E554 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/443697088_1522717131928303_4215630315689573314_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_tkVoKJrSMsQ7kNvgE3zc9C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBgn9jI-39-v-hRUk6JdlpDMQpJ1ePeMqsDWdm1TeTxJg&oe=6663F581 | 0 | 3 | Handmade in Telluride, Colorado | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716015600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846585 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:06 PM | 1717446604 | 1735168017 | 890 | 7573107572737428 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212351801400779 | crossbowleather.com | Shop Now | 3033 | NONE | dpa | DOG LEASH | https://www.crossbowleather.com/ | 1715981115 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441502892_748950130652610_5291600431370711030_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Et7NaHuXCHkQ7kNvgEcmwv2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDbG-lKsNKhNayplL7--uYDLBUokhyWLyiAVVx1EgCl1w&oe=666409A6 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441539629_990266819143998_1058009510856463769_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DtcvPjAb_sIQ7kNvgFO663m&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYChBw1CrPYwp6u6_Ir0zHLy7AHDdv9s44RLfwZViW3ebw&oe=666403A9 | 0 | 3 | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846569 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:06 PM | 1717446603 | 1735168017 | 890 | 2110899749287440 | 1 | 3.7026070466783E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212383726810779 | shoptelluride.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | {{product.name}} | {{product.description}} | https://shopcrossbow.com/products/chocolate-hip-pouch?utm_campaign={{campaign.name}} | 1716060636 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442493750_1831389450663269_94108996854114840_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=b7eG7xgr4NIQ7kNvgHxlfC3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCOvaILvvXCb64PUbLI4iorm672yXCzIcwSm3vRdmQRmg&oe=6663E554 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/443697088_1522717131928303_4215630315689573314_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_tkVoKJrSMsQ7kNvgE3zc9C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBgn9jI-39-v-hRUk6JdlpDMQpJ1ePeMqsDWdm1TeTxJg&oe=6663F581 | 0 | 3 | Handmade in Telluride, Colorado | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716015600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846577 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:06 PM | 1717446604 | 1735168017 | 890 | 1773390899734967 | 1 | 9.5367610295634E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212380543420779 | shopcrossbow.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | {{product.name}} | {{product.description}} | https://shopcrossbow.com/products/tobacco-ryan?utm_campaign={{campaign.name}} | 1716053826 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441204429_441312582197817_4027039784229538894_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kLWk3Y944g4Q7kNvgFGJF0a&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB0_9V0VcS3GqMfXvvLUcCZoq5YQDqAzCuyrQtC3odvNg&oe=6663F9D5 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440951712_974439190568834_6987641884478283496_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YSCIfFp7kxcQ7kNvgGYdKv8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC5q92Cz9f-E2O5XyQvVzGEDLfETOlf8ypaqkME8jGf3Q&oe=6663F06B | 0 | 3 | Handmade in Telluride, Colorado | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846578 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:06 PM | 1717446604 | 1735168017 | 890 | 1773390899734967 | 1 | 9.5367610295634E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212380543420779 | shopcrossbow.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | {{product.name}} | {{product.description}} | https://shopcrossbow.com/products/tobacco-ryan?utm_campaign={{campaign.name}} | 1716053826 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441204429_441312582197817_4027039784229538894_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kLWk3Y944g4Q7kNvgFGJF0a&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB0_9V0VcS3GqMfXvvLUcCZoq5YQDqAzCuyrQtC3odvNg&oe=6663F9D5 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440951712_974439190568834_6987641884478283496_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YSCIfFp7kxcQ7kNvgGYdKv8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC5q92Cz9f-E2O5XyQvVzGEDLfETOlf8ypaqkME8jGf3Q&oe=6663F06B | 0 | 3 | Handmade in Telluride, Colorado | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846702 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:06 PM | 1717446607 | 1735168019 | 890 | 458001693282139 | 1 | 1.0463250964471E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100365976129594 | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | 120208658093510421 | play.google.com | Play game | NONE | video | The winter is coming | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.global.pnck | 1713774975 | 1.0036597612959E+14 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438680898_310002382116796_5288645328511622865_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qjDsMgmph98Q7kNvgH6HO34&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCFLjd2ovU6SOB9JyGmZ3nyaPqriApAwWB0Ga5cJSnB-A&oe=6663F20E | person_profile | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438705562_985740306306734_9003390110607044337_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=it9yujpgkx4Q7kNvgFXbews&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBtc3rWdlozGhf0NSRoZHHSeDKGv-sCEaQMwG4SYlNWpw&oe=6663F5BD | 0 | 3 | Save your home through match-3 combat.⚠ | Puzzles & Chaos | 13312 | https://facebook.com/PuzzlesAndChaos | 0 | PLAY_GAME | 1713769200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846675 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446606 | 1735168021 | 890 | 480450117842115 | 1 | 4.0923008870005E+14 | 1715410800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 31587797502 | 0 | Parichay | 23858763519940432 | hypeddit.com | Listen now | NONE | video | https://hypeddit.com/moodz2 | 1694871467 | 31587797502 | Parichay | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/378163596_690284026490463_8295707586478416217_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kY5-_zCvIxwQ7kNvgFjvhID&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDqxlIqsaxHBjQw7uvhVH8qKSYGDT34Tg5FeMpKI18WgQ&oe=6663EBAC | person_profile | 0 | PARICHAY aka PartyChayn Beats | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/378012511_331510562627399_8994494977878858795_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=THQDA431JPIQ7kNvgGJny90&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAPXyQpmjnnv_hi9n9SRV2k2dTL8UZqjsBAM1pN7xpM_Q&oe=6663E0CD | 0 | 3 | I’m SPEECHLESS!! Over 5 Million Views/ Streams on #Moodz2 already! THANK YOU FAM 💛 | Parichay | 117708 | https://facebook.com/ParichayOnline | 0 | LISTEN_NOW | 1714978800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846828 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446612 | 1735168026 | 890 | 1945445259209297 | 1 | 3.4027818570462E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100309942247444 | 0 | Jim Burnworth Safaris | 120207185991680746 | jimburnworthsafaris.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Jim Burnworth Safaris | https://www.jimburnworthsafaris.com/welcometoanadventureofalifetime | 1712053552 | 1.0030994224744E+14 | Jim Burnworth Safaris | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434341842_779938144061077_9131193161469005253_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xYZoruHn-w0Q7kNvgGS3_Jk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYATidtfizJiLZJBg8eynyUS4IpNLat-4UK-btnU6gc5fw&oe=66640354 | person_profile | 0 | Jim Burnworth Safaris | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433142319_1454677728817430_7827029975555448987_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=OScB2JR7OocQ7kNvgFzHciP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAPX6lh7hEfNzzX73EQ8bgG0LYUQhKPIYi1bGpwDEvwBA&oe=6663F999 | 0 | 3 | LOOKING 4 BOWHUNTERS.<br /> <br /> 👉 Ready to embark on an unforgettable bowhunting adventure in Africa with the legendary Jim Burnworth? We're looking for 4 passionate bowhunters to join us this summer, starting June 4th and running through September 6th.<br /> <br /> 🎙️ But here's the kicker: no matter where you are in your archery journey, Jim will be there to help you grow. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, his expert guidance and coaching will ensure you make the most of this incredible experience. Plus, Jim will be hosting exclusive podcast sessions during your stay, sharing his expertise and stories from the field, adding an extra layer of excitement to your adventure.<br /> <br /> 💥 And here's some exciting news: Jim has seven camps! So if you have that friend who isn't a bowhunter, we can put a crossbow in his hand or he can bring his rifle along. Everyone is welcome to join the adventure!<br /> <br /> 💰 Packages start at just $5500 for a full 7 days of hunting, including accommodation, meals, personalized instruction from Jim Burnworth himself, access to his podcast sessions, and the option for crossbow or rifle hunting.<br /> Interested? Feel free to PM me or visit our website to leave your contact info. Let's make memories and share the campfire stories together! <br /> 🏕️ #JimBurnworthSafaris #BowhuntingAdventure #AfricaHunting #LegendaryExperience | Jim Burnworth Safaris | 1653 | https://facebook.com/jimburnworthsafaris | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712041200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1846674 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446606 | 1735168038 | 890 | 3799049043665022 | 2 | 7.565239129612E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 2350897211813851 | 0 | Dice Heads | 6535749353563 | dice-heads.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Dynamic Game Play | https://dice-heads.com/monthly-bundle/ | 1715100148 | 2.3508972118139E+15 | Dice Heads | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441025634_427601459972226_2244058738067871556_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UNl9YyHNUBcQ7kNvgFQ9oOy&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDw9FvpS95OqkyY_ScoF-dlfUhCQR01_6GvjhRuT7X1iQ&oe=6663EE09 | person_profile | 0 | Dice Heads | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441521820_4536018356624095_9014324297885969323_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CNIXBVfAeeQQ7kNvgH6uouB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCVaNKOlTYm9uY5S4VTQSFRATxJaPp9-RQU9aCFFP_11A&oe=666411DE | 0 | 3 | Dice Heads | 2083 | https://facebook.com/diceheads | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846744 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446608 | 1735168039 | 890 | 1143833703459581 | 1 | 9.6716752541011E+14 | 1713250800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 423699414390350 | 0 | Hiya toys | 120207249585580645 | instagram.com | Visit Instagram Profile | NONE | carousel | https://www.instagram.com/_u/hiya_toys | 1712918182 | 4.2369941439035E+14 | Hiya toys | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435890169_455637816898997_1400948676440987007_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Fu3FeGom4jgQ7kNvgG0SxFs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAOYCIJuEX0393stk-NcYHNJJGKD6W3MKgLbdy6XogbMQ&oe=6663F787 | person_profile | 0 | Hiyatoys | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435899196_1161301881532746_9040978709044126875_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Q4qGuYJQFN4Q7kNvgFs_oC4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAr7Hoz-_fTjcWP5WDN6ZHvZbaOKapQXgJ50uYpQJMLJQ&oe=66640AB0 | 0 | 3 | Hiya toys | 20083 | https://facebook.com/Hiyatoys | 0 | VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE | 1712905200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846747 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446609 | 1735168039 | 890 | 762799398924244 | 1 | 3.2845536023858E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 892588401116730 | 0 | Practice Anywhere | 120207328534580376 | accubow.com | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | Scope-to-Phone Crosshair Sight | https://accubow.com/ | 1710617225 | 8.9258840111673E+14 | Practice Anywhere | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431950026_712364067761625_8500033827148086301_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BJFXgpkf6i4Q7kNvgFz7qJY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD0_gXHYxc5kIzXZrmb6tcBeFrQKS4GXsx7Jt7xzNHNXg&oe=66640FFC | person_profile | 0 | Official AccuBow® | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431972926_397577752988272_9068572841206466590_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RBTTKfJrSrcQ7kNvgGaR5W5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAZqgLYv2glSCsebzwrLWaG7wpKhu4HcSoSbELFJe-AAg&oe=6663DEF1 | 0 | 3 | Practice Anywhere | 9813 | https://facebook.com/practiceanywherenow | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1712905200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1846840 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446612 | 1735168042 | 890 | 909720550933161 | 3 | 1.3680873738995E+15 | 1711522800 | person_profile | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 528423657263233 | 0 | Serious Bookings | 6544304682244 | zklshopec1.top | Learn more | NONE | video | https://zklshopec1.top/products/q?campaign_id={{campaign.id}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}} | 1711529551 | 5.2842365726323E+14 | Serious Bookings | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434269680_450752013973618_4264633037474322466_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_a1VKP5HXH4Q7kNvgEZjHY_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCBSWhfBS-si9g1ZUl3zWKUPsxxheNihiYawDllF0cNsA&oe=66640979 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Serious Bookings | 81 | https://facebook.com/seriousbookings | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711522800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846617 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 5/2/25, 3:39 PM | 1717446604 | 1746218375 | 890 | 1152578912537246 | 1 | 1.1204637625828E+15 | 1716793200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 217316998627741 | 0 | Frost & Flame：King of Avalon | 120209480463940783 | play.google.com | Play game | NONE | video | Play for FREE! | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.funplus.kingofavalon | 1716260867 | 2.1731699862774E+14 | Frost & Flame：King of Avalon | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444485780_317982888011691_8792308689148427600_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KoIfplHaWC0Q7kNvgFXBFku&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDDCYXOIeF127YeFsEHuujgwEfSo6ybXvCIhJxl1Mcd-Q&oe=6664045E | person_profile | 0 | King of Avalon | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428027766_708339727980562_7599167926279213851_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ILw1NpT_Rb8Q7kNvgHTNhvl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBZ_2jzNBoeR9ElvjUHjod55xMYoV9VyLzG40mMTh6s5w&oe=6663E84B | 0 | 3 | That Game Everyone's Playing! Join Now! | Frost & Flame：King of Avalon | 1213145 | https://facebook.com/koadw | 0 | PLAY_GAME | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846625 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 12:37 AM | 1717446605 | 1742794663 | 890 | 959161975875354 | 1 | 4.2626009684549E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100365976129594 | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | 120209760071010421 | play.google.com | Play game | NONE | video | Become a wizard! | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.global.pnck | 1716436498 | 1.0036597612959E+14 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442438271_1654680561735149_1861483122228847124_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=07g2dpYVL_kQ7kNvgGsVWBW&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBO8WjYle1HOcnshDA89ru0GDMakCxo-64K26NjaE4mhQ&oe=66640432 | person_profile | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442408098_433489102730706_710411182125941107_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5oDtr93ETb0Q7kNvgHWPKC4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAJsaOZLRT4qJlNWmIn-vsdm6b6I5J-61YQ50gVd91gNg&oe=66640D11 | 0 | 3 | 👻I bet you've never seen a game like this before! | Puzzles & Chaos | 13312 | https://facebook.com/PuzzlesAndChaos | 0 | PLAY_GAME | 1716361200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846610 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 3:34 PM | 1717446604 | 1742848483 | 890 | 1841364509681824 | 1 | 3.8034460632254E+15 | 1716966000 | person_profile | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 116862348017407 | 0 | میرا دین اہلبیت | 120210749339240684 | asmartly.top | Learn more | NONE | video | https://asmartly.top/products/g?campaign_id={{campaign.id}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}} | 1716878156 | 1.1686234801741E+14 | میرا دین اہلبیت | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445185909_1472083653513368_1349466784396189991_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ElofZI0ru2wQ7kNvgG5Rw19&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAThE0ZjO9pXEifwtjGPyvFJmOfWDJTBpRvWX7Q6lbVwg&oe=666400C7 | person_profile | 0 | میرا دین اہلبیت | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445166250_1439793210009555_328109986786566791_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4EBiRUuk75QQ7kNvgFTIABy&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAp-J1H_A1Z1r5RBfakUqw0rLMklAuEMRMSQ6z_mVURBw&oe=66640E03 | 0 | 3 | میرا دین اہلبیت | 7 | https://facebook.com/100090948525258 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716879600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846562 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 5:00 AM | 1717446603 | 1742810411 | 890 | 807811607962880 | 1 | 7.0315357185007E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212380730920779 | www.shopcrossbow.com | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | https://shopcrossbow.com/collections/bags-purses/products/fringe-hip-pouch?utm_source={{campaign.name}}&utm_medium=Stories+and+Reels | 1716054304 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441694862_957970249357800_3698845736050406880_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=T5o7qxRApXEQ7kNvgF464uC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDc4XSJzdiA3SYpm1dVY-p7F9HyPeqpF9ndU31TQCxwYw&oe=6663F270 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444150535_353670874397898_9199287002329383091_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rpvL82QbAlEQ7kNvgFTnW2J&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAaJHo77iDvIxMXzItiyU2PVUZUoHnZCJQtGxPmDixq5g&oe=6663FE4B | 0 | 3 | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716015600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846664 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 3:57 PM | 1717446606 | 1742849861 | 890 | 1637178000364680 | 1 | 1.4606499645879E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 228845534391387 | 0 | 7 Sided Die | 120209671867620045 | www.youtube.com | Sign up | NONE | video | D&D Stream - 7SD Carpathian Adventure Episode 118: Gazi! | https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeT_cRiddQgjRL7PWSHqx2g?sub_confirmation=1 | 1715315677 | 2.2884553439139E+14 | 7 Sided Die | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438171115_949287890163656_2814139808725408671_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HuXC5sATksQQ7kNvgHUD-JU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDJGOhB7rhFOKu_dI9SCXA8bWKtv9JXvnVwz6cQI7fR4A&oe=66640831 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | D&D Stream - 7SD Carpathian Adventure Episode 118: Gazi!<br /> <br /> D&D Live Stream<br /> <br /> Thank you for checking out 7 Sided Die (7SD)!<br /> <br /> This is one of our live streamed games!<br /> <br /> We're a group of gamers. Some of us are military, some are in construction, IT, others retail managers, a few are parents, and still others are students, etc. So, we're just everyday people who stream live strictly for fun! We hope you enjoy our stream nonetheless!<br /> <br /> We stream our some of games on YouTube at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fc%2F7SidedDie&h=AT3ff4BTBMt5Zjgt0l_0am9iebLvsZvhlByGq12ZCuOe_WJArRxFhwtcSnD9BsoCxHBefkGUF56xCmlhC_z5Hfi_s6OMBL9qbkDCDRnkUX2a43cbJh63JFbR7XPX4qn1wCYerkN7yuvLP9JY7YvuEFffcF3hsQ" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.youtube.com/c/7SidedDie</a>, on our Twitch channel at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.twitch.tv%2F7SidedDie&h=AT2qjr1pwy9Trd6kh-29VR1MnmByPwCHiCuLlny03nwCUZk9ylAv5Mib1myhR3d_zyxgR-UefFiVr-rnRyuWyIKmdhY36i4WJZbnTY_bkPnNCIeQvqkpLysVbBQyy7boH3svsumio0TFag-7vmDpoOcAJ3nnxA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.twitch.tv/7SidedDie</a>, on our Facebook page at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/7-Sided-Die-228845534391387/" rel="nofollow">https://www.facebook.com/7-Sided-Die-228845534391387/</a> on Twitter at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2F7_sided_Die&h=AT0bOt9T4xqPtqnLKxyeyk7xkwFrPRhEKc_2J4xsVtttCnlE_K0R3-w9Zk9IUBc5QmCV2OiyYQ-JrTOOyi1dY2fy4x2RWXBYNZ9is4hBPb1eP3c_x-Uw1-13nAki0nB4GT9aibKuILTO2005Sy_fpBmMM8bdug" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://twitter.com/7_sided_Die</a>, on our KICK page at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fkick.com%2F7-sided-die&h=AT1-bTCxRLNK0OfagF5BuvFZw3sdq2i3O21OQEQSXz_Xu14c6LgcWFHeIlpSlLRyFU7ySBoWbjXCkfQV26SjC0vKieOxX1lbRwEfi-UDPlpy9r9s6AUxOcDAzEAnS81oielNhs_pWQttKwEmiQBTs_zfp3UTqg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://kick.com/7-sided-die</a> and occasionally on our Trovo page at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Ftrovo.live%2Fs%2F7SidedDie%2F224125104&h=AT2dPGXyqjHQEIIbyuvhvmRjdFTNzTm24N75jWv0xQgG5kZO-E3qWSLzn9BenyvI8kFCXkEUaA0TYdcrJ-Kw2kGtwaG1GSLMZcV8tNxqoxPfm-i8jrBgst_temYbQ0L3FWOdYzZ_Huf1cPFEnU5jKz-9krcHPg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://trovo.live/s/7SidedDie/224125104</a>. Our streams are archived indefinitely on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, and as permitted by the level (Streamer, Affiliate, Partner, etc.) on Twitch, Kick and Trovo.<br /> <br /> Again, thank you for checking us out, and "Roll a 7 sided die!"<br /> <br /> '7 Sided Die is unofficial Fan Content permitted under the Fan Content Policy. Wizards of the Coast's Fan Content Policy is located here: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fcompany.wizards.com%2Fen%2Flegal%2Ffancontentpolicy&h=AT1V1GhaWJ_6dK79MqTM3cvnOBBmvIDTyFdzynbLVmt1nIaQJRZg1mAEonUPwLgtCjElKW9TVmigSqKVlR6g9ripa0rndvzrnVkY_6nhc62dBcLJWOz_ZSAXvLlyvKKysycG0jGix5V4Nr5JFDt2P95seUjx3A" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://company.wizards.com/en/legal/fancontentpolicy</a>. Neither 7 Sided Die, the Carpathian Adventure nor any of 7 Sided Die's streams and videos are approved or endorsed by Wizards or Wizards of the Coast. Not approved/endorsed by Wizards. Portions of the materials used are property of Wizards of the Coast. ©Wizards of the Coast LLC.<br /> <br /> Some background music courtesy Syrinscape. ©Syrinscape. (Some) "Music and Sound by Syrinscape. "Syrinscape under the Creative Commons Attribution License 4.0. More info here: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fcreativecommons.org%2Flicenses%2F&h=AT3_-M8bIyCttYk3c73kX5l47Ms25_LXIw3rmtV1OzOn437YmS2JaRBSEq6fea2VNNuv4kXe9bA7rt-FifhoFtfEecpa0ZDdFWkQeoTTn77BFp22P7TvPUWcUGhh0XzsZtNWNRugs55wJGOQw8efy58T0Gm9vQ" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">creativecommons.org/licenses/</a>" <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fsyrinscape.com%2Ffaq%2F&h=AT3uhap9kQC7nqLpqE4jCHAg_TBFS11nINTXQgkwMkTx8FJZBHJYOiMKRx0yiHlFj5-9P-0EPPfUGV9K3i43BHUm6Cw-43HWWvlCLCzlBms9mC9Kh4SgqrIUSxlX8VUzUVOo3JDZnaBnCm084A45rnckE4gjwA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://syrinscape.com/faq/</a> "Because Epic Games Need Epic Sound." Complete list of credits here: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fsyrinscape.com%2Fattributions%2F&h=AT0x-l4FOXMhlApwQxCujDjWIjgiCn2ZozYL6buP6GDUBnnxw2mViE1sSYFFSOJmVgJHlTQHpN09YIsDGpY6xYWFZOOo6GuPTiVxrvF6ARF4nhTeZ1tDjZxgu4WaXtAmQRMRgbXgogchUimhsQ1yzNXF_v-YQg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://syrinscape.com/attributions/</a> <br /> <br /> 7SD<br /> 7SidedDie<br /> "7 Sided Die"<br /> 7_Sided_Die<br /> "Seven Sided Die"<br /> Seven_Sided_Die<br /> DnD<br /> D&D<br /> "dnd stories"<br /> "d&d stories"<br /> "dnd gameplay"<br /> "d&d gameplay"<br /> "dnd campaign"<br /> "d&d campaign"<br /> "dnd podcast"<br /> "d&d podcast"<br /> "Dungeons & Dragons"<br /> "Dungeons and Dragons"<br /> "DnD stream"<br /> "D&D stream"<br /> "DnD live stream"<br /> "D&D live stream"<br /> "Dungeons & Dragons stream"<br /> "Dungeons and Dragons stream"<br /> "D&D tips"<br /> "DnD tips"<br /> 5e<br /> "5th edition"<br /> Carpathia<br /> Carpathian<br /> "Carpathian Adventure"<br /> "Grumblings of a Gaming Grognard"<br /> GoaGG<br /> "Ximen Vall"<br /> "Ximén Vall"<br /> "Naldo Renzi"<br /> Ximén<br /> Balder<br /> "Alderic Westerbach"<br /> "Pandor Spocks"<br /> "Micolash Dolion"<br /> "Gelila Bemnet"<br /> "Borinth Ursus Spalaeus"<br /> "The Baron"<br /> "Mátyás Báthory"<br /> "Matyas Bathory"<br /> RPG<br /> "Role Playing Game"<br /> Tabletop<br /> "Table top"<br /> "Tabletop RPG"<br /> "How to play D&D"<br /> "Tom Jr"<br /> "Tom Frickanisce Jr"<br /> "Rainer Frickanisce"<br /> <br /> 7SD,<br /> 7SidedDie,<br /> 7 Sided Die,<br /> 7_Sided_Die,<br /> Seven Sided Die",<br /> Seven_Sided_Die,<br /> DnD,<br /> D&D,<br /> dnd stories,<br /> d&d stories.<br /> dnd gameplay,<br /> d&d gameplay,<br /> dnd campaign,<br /> d&d campaign,<br /> dnd podcast,<br /> d&d podcast,<br /> Dungeons & Dragons,<br /> Dungeons and Dragons,<br /> DnD stream,<br /> D&D stream,<br /> DnD live stream,<br /> D&D live stream,<br /> Dungeons & Dragons stream,<br /> Dungeons and Dragons stream,<br /> D&D tips,<br /> DnD tips,<br /> 5e,<br /> 5th edition,<br /> Carpathia,<br /> Carpathian,<br /> Carpathian Adventure,<br /> Grumblings of a Gaming Grognard,<br /> GoaGG,<br /> Ximen Vall,<br /> Ximén Vall,<br /> Ximén,<br /> Naldo Renzi<br /> Balder,<br /> Pandora Spocks,<br /> Alderic Westerbach,<br /> Micolash Dolion,<br /> Gelila Bemnet,<br /> Borinth Ursus Spalaeus,<br /> The Baron,<br /> Mátyás Báthory,<br /> Matyas Bathory,<br /> RPG,<br /> Role Playing Game,<br /> Tabletop,<br /> Table top,<br /> Tabletop RPG,<br /> How to play D&D,<br /> Tom Jr,<br /> Tom Frickanisce Jr,<br /> Rainer Frickanisce, | 7 Sided Die | 475 | https://facebook.com/100067198293097 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846613 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 5:28 PM | 1717446604 | 1742855307 | 890 | 420312137514360 | 1 | 1.0974202782224E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100365976129594 | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | 120209116197080257 | play.google.com | Play game | NONE | video | Become a wizard! | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.global.pnck | 1716795070 | 1.0036597612959E+14 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441489913_244681905396342_1909589150072268037_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xFg8Xphh2IYQ7kNvgG-GT21&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCV0mn3MDFQZrqsA_vm45s6RNW6-c_Fycmt5krd8yQ-oA&oe=6663E2F9 | person_profile | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444973048_452554967422647_4694484911693416451_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=r7-nwFmmM6AQ7kNvgEXmIpY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAKIW1R7TEdsdr9hq5P1ksphuiHf2SgJUgx5gNbG8URdQ&oe=6664045B | 0 | 3 | Raise a dragon and match to defeat the invader！ | Puzzles & Chaos | 13312 | https://facebook.com/PuzzlesAndChaos | 0 | PLAY_GAME | 1716793200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846599 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 3:45 PM | 1717446604 | 1742849124 | 890 | 1003178158042769 | 1 | 4.6851593586289E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 553745621473896 | 0 | Deerman's 3D Archery Promotions | 6599300730130 | Call now | NONE | image | Deerman's 3D Archery Promotions | For a complete set of rules come see us at the3d.org. We are designed 100% to improve you as a more | 1717111535 | 5.537456214739E+14 | Deerman's 3D Archery Promotions | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441880600_302711196234909_7417865878691605284_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nHNpwPYXsIMQ7kNvgFSULrG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDQavmFFGTZGd-YsuaANfMLQjfuxFHeO08XaXKchqeSlg&oe=6663EEAC | person_profile | 0 | Deerman's 3D Archery Promotion | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444501361_840913248062184_6681596068831975435_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GhPlwp95yjYQ7kNvgEkfAUe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYARrT0ESSKCJRBn3BwWlOYiEF7_wEkO9jJV4-q22jsY5Q&oe=6663EB4A | 0 | 3 | 14 classes 3 buckles per class. No need to qualify prices are for members non members add $10. All can compete all can win.<br /> Broadhead Barn Archery Pro Shop <br /> Red Arrow Scents <br /> Clearshot Outdoors LLc <br /> Unorthodox Hunter <br /> MAD GOAT Custom Bowstrings <br /> SHOT the 3D Experience <br /> ParaTexas Slings N Things <br /> Triggered Archery LLC <br /> Nimrod Archery <br /> @Buckbuddyoutdoors<br /> Game Changer Camouflage | Deerman's 3D Archery Promotions | 2757 | https://facebook.com/THEDeerman | 0 | CALL_NOW | 1717052400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846581 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446604 | 1735168050 | 890 | 2590033707845406 | 1 | 7.5338344500257E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212354190640779 | shopcrossbow.com | Get Offer | NONE | carousel | Handmade in Telluride, Colorado. | https://shopcrossbow.com/products/the-kingston-mini?utm_campaign={{campaign.name}} | 1715988063 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441575682_1358931868130954_7482231144824207652_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sMUYq1QNBZEQ7kNvgF8SKUu&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCB3KICoCChRjO_mETlGUDLML4Z9twKRCkTjvxGo2kCYg&oe=66640C38 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441501545_1148992602915693_3941691714738839560_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bbtd8DZBIlMQ7kNvgGuQvbC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD5zervN6TwBVXN-A_DhMGVj-I6nGJVjbiI8GPL1rSdcw&oe=666402ED | 0 | 3 | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | GET_OFFER | 1716015600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846586 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446604 | 1735168050 | 890 | 7573107572737428 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212351801400779 | crossbowleather.com | Shop Now | 3033 | NONE | dpa | DOG LEASH | https://www.crossbowleather.com/ | 1715981115 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441502892_748950130652610_5291600431370711030_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Et7NaHuXCHkQ7kNvgEcmwv2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDbG-lKsNKhNayplL7--uYDLBUokhyWLyiAVVx1EgCl1w&oe=666409A6 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441539629_990266819143998_1058009510856463769_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DtcvPjAb_sIQ7kNvgFO663m&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYChBw1CrPYwp6u6_Ir0zHLy7AHDdv9s44RLfwZViW3ebw&oe=666403A9 | 0 | 3 | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846587 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446604 | 1735168051 | 890 | 7573107572737428 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212351801400779 | crossbowleather.com | Shop Now | 3033 | NONE | dpa | DOG LEASH | https://www.crossbowleather.com/ | 1715981115 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441502892_748950130652610_5291600431370711030_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Et7NaHuXCHkQ7kNvgEcmwv2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDbG-lKsNKhNayplL7--uYDLBUokhyWLyiAVVx1EgCl1w&oe=666409A6 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441539629_990266819143998_1058009510856463769_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DtcvPjAb_sIQ7kNvgFO663m&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYChBw1CrPYwp6u6_Ir0zHLy7AHDdv9s44RLfwZViW3ebw&oe=666403A9 | 0 | 3 | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846704 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446607 | 1735168051 | 890 | 3595506284096217 | 1 | 1.106328603937E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100365976129594 | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | 120208658088630421 | play.google.com | Play game | NONE | video | How good is your math? | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.global.pnck | 1713774775 | 1.0036597612959E+14 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437528783_1589113705182723_6172436514727377435_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=C7MYfqsvSDcQ7kNvgGGSfV_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA_f8lsk60mcEhhgIFEfCPXGdjSUsgMztAUmW1Ew6wZ4A&oe=6663F148 | person_profile | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438100811_1117550826168951_6619881078826338504_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jXX51sunCT4Q7kNvgFvWk_N&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCsu64KY3729a9gStXPRIZQbQjTgv_We0g8VL1aB8icbw&oe=66640E82 | 0 | 3 | Every decision matters. 🧮<br /> Try it yourself! | Puzzles & Chaos | 13312 | https://facebook.com/PuzzlesAndChaos | 0 | PLAY_GAME | 1713769200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846676 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446606 | 1735168051 | 890 | 1169576710890412 | 1 | 1.1211904458556E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100365976129594 | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | 120208706477110601 | itunes.apple.com | Play game | NONE | video | Play Puzzles & Chaos now! | http://itunes.apple.com/app/id6446389130 | 1714978711 | 1.0036597612959E+14 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438145421_1129023298306673_7259414855411783435_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vuvKltixplcQ7kNvgEwmsWv&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB4AAoV5hZ3gCizhPNHCzs27zYsRj6jyKmJsZoe0VhIWw&oe=6663EF7B | person_profile | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438173807_454605633920981_4683678241252224028_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kru8vRcedi0Q7kNvgFn4Lyo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCetZQ00Yoycbx48hIVEPkjmdPz4JlLpALihmfthYHNdg&oe=6663F3CF | 0 | 3 | ☠️Human, Orc, Elf, Undead... 🧠Which will you recruit? | Puzzles & Chaos | 13312 | https://facebook.com/PuzzlesAndChaos | 0 | PLAY_GAME | 1714978800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846677 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446606 | 1735168051 | 890 | 781829687288779 | 1 | 2.5456336768472E+14 | 1714892400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 217316998627741 | 0 | Frost & Flame：King of Avalon | 120208769621100751 | itunes.apple.com | Play game | NONE | video | Play for FREE! | http://itunes.apple.com/app/id1084930849 | 1714474163 | 2.1731699862774E+14 | Frost & Flame：King of Avalon | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439849226_1405141326803970_6688408966755911714_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lXtCMUgn8MsQ7kNvgFzGbe4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD9a5HclV0eaBy2-zzW6dZTnWvdKmdEyiJZib8bBn5qyQ&oe=666411E5 | person_profile | 0 | King of Avalon | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440754633_381676874861723_4075483775250167073_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=15tlXYmve_8Q7kNvgFiHafI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDoSCdSsAmEHPOUsrOjxXvHhRIDiiGLRPpTWYYZoamGvA&oe=6663F386 | 0 | 3 | Why is this game so fun?! Play Now! | Frost & Flame：King of Avalon | 1213145 | https://facebook.com/koadw | 0 | PLAY_GAME | 1714719600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846680 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446606 | 1735168051 | 890 | 337148285685241 | 2 | 9.5570610268791E+14 | 1716966000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1705569912922526 | 0 | Archero | 120208389189400591 | play.google.com | Install now | NONE | video | One Man One War | https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.habby.archero | 1714460942 | 1.7055699129225E+15 | Archero | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438164168_957466929311064_4328551410735498022_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PcgaIaoGUBsQ7kNvgGIx4rh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDO9kVLCQHH0GA9IHFunCPjQ2on4SFD2c1sLAPaD72W3A&oe=66641392 | person_profile | 0 | Archero | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438925452_742211121415249_8220584931254654942_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=74HkuVa2nhUQ7kNvgH-X11d&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBU-Fv3Pdl_RHG_uGVgz8I7ueBTAgSBfSrDW0MyJsfJ0Q&oe=6663F4DF | 0 | 3 | Finally on level 9. I'm hooked... | Archero | 693456 | https://facebook.com/archerogame | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1714460400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846611 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 2:31 AM | 1717446604 | 1742801491 | 890 | 345687471877623 | 1 | 9.7193796465597E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 103157048992914 | 0 | Cogan Lollins | 6605929545617 | Like Page | NONE | video | 1716877283 | 1.0315704899291E+14 | Cogan Lollins | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444500768_1160616268303621_4061437085044747478_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=R64RzetRv4EQ7kNvgFy3IVP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA41jtqaCtu1tVOH5VLcNQ7q8ZPNl6Rxn2B4QMvSgzS2A&oe=66640C13 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Van Helsing Full Timeline Explained!<br /> <br /> This video took a long time to make so I hope you enjoy. This has always been a favorite of mine so I really wanted to dive into all the mysteries in this movie.<br /> Check out my page for more videos about vampires, werewolves, and other supernatural creatures! | Cogan Lollins | 1759 | https://facebook.com/CoganLollins | 0 | LIKE_PAGE | 1716879600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846628 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 5:51 PM | 1717446605 | 1742856679 | 890 | 979170540379466 | 5 | 4.1078960505769E+14 | 1716534000 | person_profile | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 182091501664849 | 0 | A BioForcelab | 120210308725000546 | asmartly.top | Learn more | NONE | video | https://asmartly.top/products/b?campaign_id={{campaign.id}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}} | 1716277408 | 1.8209150166485E+14 | A BioForcelab | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/443714959_978359633742208_5202842801681487721_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=eghdcrALJ3QQ7kNvgHU-Jay&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCEVrAAjkt6QjSDBofW7uK5V8ypVDSVN4p-4_yIyxMoEQ&oe=66640181 | person_profile | 0 | A BioForcelab | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441192091_6943080972458723_161502519424685423_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uaB9bORvPKsQ7kNvgHLJOrg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD6DqHppXEUCzrh2mmHxtSdry8XVrfZh7-UKNRxSGjt5A&oe=6663E1A8 | 0 | 3 | A BioForcelab | 1 | https://facebook.com/61556196639935 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1846752 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446609 | 1735168053 | 890 | 762799398924244 | 1 | 3.2845536023858E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 892588401116730 | 0 | Practice Anywhere | 120207328534580376 | accubow.com | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | Scope-to-Phone Crosshair Sight | https://accubow.com/ | 1710617225 | 8.9258840111673E+14 | Practice Anywhere | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431950026_712364067761625_8500033827148086301_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BJFXgpkf6i4Q7kNvgFz7qJY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD0_gXHYxc5kIzXZrmb6tcBeFrQKS4GXsx7Jt7xzNHNXg&oe=66640FFC | person_profile | 0 | Official AccuBow® | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431972926_397577752988272_9068572841206466590_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RBTTKfJrSrcQ7kNvgGaR5W5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAZqgLYv2glSCsebzwrLWaG7wpKhu4HcSoSbELFJe-AAg&oe=6663DEF1 | 0 | 3 | Practice Anywhere | 9813 | https://facebook.com/practiceanywherenow | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1712905200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846609 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446604 | 1735168053 | 890 | 477007361339437 | 3 | 1.2129818834E+15 | 1717138800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 269620322892403 | 0 | The Spellbound Archive | 6570737626402 | instagram.com | Visit Instagram Profile | NONE | carousel | http://instagram.com/spellbound_archive | 1716895813 | 2.696203228924E+14 | The Spellbound Archive | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445408230_464328772937282_6576593722077286296_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xunsEcGlVxQQ7kNvgEQXRo9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC4ZDO8Xi1CiPXBJqpuRNero0GbrNNaSsZi8nTrh7GE5g&oe=6663EBFF | person_profile | 0 | The Spellbound Archive D&D 5e Content | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445700834_830615025647196_3841035041168247921_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mXHPioFXMN4Q7kNvgFAP-DL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCM51l-Jt0Zb8qDJkPnqQE0Kjig1ik91rJEp4Yp45oFxg&oe=6663DD81 | 0 | 3 | The Spellbound Archive | 2 | https://facebook.com/61557003984252 | 0 | VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE | 1716879600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1846644 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446605 | 1735168053 | 890 | 292184883967378 | 4 | 3.1484091499465E+14 | 1716015600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 313000321890712 | 0 | Gaqqueb | 120210952886300454 | xorcyp.com | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐤𝐫𝐮𝐩𝐭𝐜𝐲 𝐒𝐚𝐥𝐞👉👉 Buy More Save More!!! | https://www.vyjnggf.com/products?handler=outdoor-gear&token=8H9tgskk | 1715768971 | 3.1300032189071E+14 | Gaqqueb | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436481696_443500681960150_285019546833616229_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bJmVExMpC9oQ7kNvgHLSj6K&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAACkzp9dtGyQV5G_OSqw1MkwjCIfK49OpQfV7HN_cLig&oe=6663EC84 | person_profile | 0 | Gaqqueb | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441540521_7429368013847753_7046223710132103922_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nj5gWF4badQQ7kNvgHHp7bA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC532Nr560MymZejsH2KswY2CsPLM4HnWYAO1GyLhIA0g&oe=6663E429 | 0 | 3 | Gaqqueb | 1 | https://facebook.com/61558872900229 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715842800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1846536 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446603 | 1735168054 | 890 | 1493803491343971 | 1 | 7.986120851398E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1646594815650857 | 0 | SWAT Broadheads | 120209243069170302 | swatbroadheads.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | https://swatbroadheads.com/ | 1717240388 | 1.6465948156509E+15 | SWAT Broadheads | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442493152_864498768838843_2460759072331702302_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NbktKXzHOB0Q7kNvgHWluBJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA9Lr-mHbwxHf4oCNdjpEUr30oE9BEEUBjYnBCKDdbzJw&oe=66640437 | person_profile | 0 | SWAT Broadheads | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444151684_1648151202604899_5011539390087472934_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CcXXm3fkIDsQ7kNvgFh6P30&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAonGL84DHXy180CLQLsXyR7OvUYtrq8n9bquYEQTMAng&oe=6663DE15 | 0 | 3 | SWAT Broadheads | 9826 | https://facebook.com/swatbroadheads | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846538 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446603 | 1735168054 | 890 | 475300191825655 | 1 | 4.1294703157236E+14 | 1717052400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212380470800779 | shopcrossbow.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | {{product.name}} | {{product.description}} | https://shopcrossbow.com/products/heather-benjamin-claw-arrowhead-bolo?utm_campaign={{campaign.name}} | 1716053667 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442419409_1000954258286631_4377411983348532002_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nCcAOOLBv7EQ7kNvgHubHSB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBYyy97imU1tf2L4oFvUUQkNTtpxmATv24iTpdVmcq9LQ&oe=6663FD33 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444763530_1185121005708842_837956208575167369_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k6j6dxO7pzIQ7kNvgEMQk3L&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBgGRJroocaZ_jI0MtQTpMeD9pBLS5ze7nhhbmxanOhFQ&oe=66640DE3 | 0 | 3 | Free Shipping on All Bolo Tie Orders! | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846539 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446603 | 1735168055 | 890 | 475300191825655 | 1 | 4.1294703157236E+14 | 1717052400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212380470800779 | shopcrossbow.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | {{product.name}} | {{product.description}} | https://shopcrossbow.com/products/heather-benjamin-claw-arrowhead-bolo?utm_campaign={{campaign.name}} | 1716053667 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442419409_1000954258286631_4377411983348532002_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nCcAOOLBv7EQ7kNvgHubHSB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBYyy97imU1tf2L4oFvUUQkNTtpxmATv24iTpdVmcq9LQ&oe=6663FD33 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444763530_1185121005708842_837956208575167369_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k6j6dxO7pzIQ7kNvgEMQk3L&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBgGRJroocaZ_jI0MtQTpMeD9pBLS5ze7nhhbmxanOhFQ&oe=66640DE3 | 0 | 3 | Free Shipping on All Bolo Tie Orders! | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846541 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446603 | 1735168055 | 890 | 475300191825655 | 1 | 4.1294703157236E+14 | 1717052400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212380470800779 | shopcrossbow.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | {{product.name}} | {{product.description}} | https://shopcrossbow.com/products/heather-benjamin-claw-arrowhead-bolo?utm_campaign={{campaign.name}} | 1716053667 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442419409_1000954258286631_4377411983348532002_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nCcAOOLBv7EQ7kNvgHubHSB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBYyy97imU1tf2L4oFvUUQkNTtpxmATv24iTpdVmcq9LQ&oe=6663FD33 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444763530_1185121005708842_837956208575167369_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k6j6dxO7pzIQ7kNvgEMQk3L&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBgGRJroocaZ_jI0MtQTpMeD9pBLS5ze7nhhbmxanOhFQ&oe=66640DE3 | 0 | 3 | Free Shipping on All Bolo Tie Orders! | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846543 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446603 | 1735168055 | 890 | 475300191825655 | 1 | 4.1294703157236E+14 | 1717052400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212380470800779 | shopcrossbow.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | {{product.name}} | {{product.description}} | https://shopcrossbow.com/products/heather-benjamin-claw-arrowhead-bolo?utm_campaign={{campaign.name}} | 1716053667 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442419409_1000954258286631_4377411983348532002_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nCcAOOLBv7EQ7kNvgHubHSB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBYyy97imU1tf2L4oFvUUQkNTtpxmATv24iTpdVmcq9LQ&oe=6663FD33 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444763530_1185121005708842_837956208575167369_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k6j6dxO7pzIQ7kNvgEMQk3L&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBgGRJroocaZ_jI0MtQTpMeD9pBLS5ze7nhhbmxanOhFQ&oe=66640DE3 | 0 | 3 | Free Shipping on All Bolo Tie Orders! | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846544 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446603 | 1735168055 | 890 | 475300191825655 | 1 | 4.1294703157236E+14 | 1717052400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212380470800779 | shopcrossbow.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | {{product.name}} | {{product.description}} | https://shopcrossbow.com/products/heather-benjamin-claw-arrowhead-bolo?utm_campaign={{campaign.name}} | 1716053667 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442419409_1000954258286631_4377411983348532002_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nCcAOOLBv7EQ7kNvgHubHSB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBYyy97imU1tf2L4oFvUUQkNTtpxmATv24iTpdVmcq9LQ&oe=6663FD33 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444763530_1185121005708842_837956208575167369_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k6j6dxO7pzIQ7kNvgEMQk3L&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBgGRJroocaZ_jI0MtQTpMeD9pBLS5ze7nhhbmxanOhFQ&oe=66640DE3 | 0 | 3 | Free Shipping on All Bolo Tie Orders! | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846545 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446603 | 1735168055 | 890 | 475300191825655 | 1 | 4.1294703157236E+14 | 1717052400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212380470800779 | shopcrossbow.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | {{product.name}} | {{product.description}} | https://shopcrossbow.com/products/heather-benjamin-claw-arrowhead-bolo?utm_campaign={{campaign.name}} | 1716053667 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442419409_1000954258286631_4377411983348532002_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nCcAOOLBv7EQ7kNvgHubHSB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBYyy97imU1tf2L4oFvUUQkNTtpxmATv24iTpdVmcq9LQ&oe=6663FD33 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444763530_1185121005708842_837956208575167369_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k6j6dxO7pzIQ7kNvgEMQk3L&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBgGRJroocaZ_jI0MtQTpMeD9pBLS5ze7nhhbmxanOhFQ&oe=66640DE3 | 0 | 3 | Free Shipping on All Bolo Tie Orders! | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846546 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446603 | 1735168055 | 890 | 475300191825655 | 1 | 4.1294703157236E+14 | 1717052400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212380470800779 | shopcrossbow.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | {{product.name}} | {{product.description}} | https://shopcrossbow.com/products/heather-benjamin-claw-arrowhead-bolo?utm_campaign={{campaign.name}} | 1716053667 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442419409_1000954258286631_4377411983348532002_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nCcAOOLBv7EQ7kNvgHubHSB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBYyy97imU1tf2L4oFvUUQkNTtpxmATv24iTpdVmcq9LQ&oe=6663FD33 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444763530_1185121005708842_837956208575167369_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k6j6dxO7pzIQ7kNvgEMQk3L&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBgGRJroocaZ_jI0MtQTpMeD9pBLS5ze7nhhbmxanOhFQ&oe=66640DE3 | 0 | 3 | Free Shipping on All Bolo Tie Orders! | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846547 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446603 | 1735168056 | 890 | 475300191825655 | 1 | 4.1294703157236E+14 | 1717052400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212380470800779 | shopcrossbow.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | {{product.name}} | {{product.description}} | https://shopcrossbow.com/products/heather-benjamin-claw-arrowhead-bolo?utm_campaign={{campaign.name}} | 1716053667 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442419409_1000954258286631_4377411983348532002_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nCcAOOLBv7EQ7kNvgHubHSB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBYyy97imU1tf2L4oFvUUQkNTtpxmATv24iTpdVmcq9LQ&oe=6663FD33 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444763530_1185121005708842_837956208575167369_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k6j6dxO7pzIQ7kNvgEMQk3L&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBgGRJroocaZ_jI0MtQTpMeD9pBLS5ze7nhhbmxanOhFQ&oe=66640DE3 | 0 | 3 | Free Shipping on All Bolo Tie Orders! | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846548 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446603 | 1735168056 | 890 | 475300191825655 | 1 | 4.1294703157236E+14 | 1717052400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212380470800779 | shopcrossbow.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | {{product.name}} | {{product.description}} | https://shopcrossbow.com/products/heather-benjamin-claw-arrowhead-bolo?utm_campaign={{campaign.name}} | 1716053667 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442419409_1000954258286631_4377411983348532002_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nCcAOOLBv7EQ7kNvgHubHSB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBYyy97imU1tf2L4oFvUUQkNTtpxmATv24iTpdVmcq9LQ&oe=6663FD33 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444763530_1185121005708842_837956208575167369_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k6j6dxO7pzIQ7kNvgEMQk3L&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBgGRJroocaZ_jI0MtQTpMeD9pBLS5ze7nhhbmxanOhFQ&oe=66640DE3 | 0 | 3 | Free Shipping on All Bolo Tie Orders! | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846551 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446603 | 1735168057 | 890 | 475300191825655 | 1 | 4.1294703157236E+14 | 1717052400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212380470800779 | shopcrossbow.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | {{product.name}} | {{product.description}} | https://shopcrossbow.com/products/heather-benjamin-claw-arrowhead-bolo?utm_campaign={{campaign.name}} | 1716053667 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442419409_1000954258286631_4377411983348532002_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nCcAOOLBv7EQ7kNvgHubHSB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBYyy97imU1tf2L4oFvUUQkNTtpxmATv24iTpdVmcq9LQ&oe=6663FD33 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444763530_1185121005708842_837956208575167369_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k6j6dxO7pzIQ7kNvgEMQk3L&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBgGRJroocaZ_jI0MtQTpMeD9pBLS5ze7nhhbmxanOhFQ&oe=66640DE3 | 0 | 3 | Free Shipping on All Bolo Tie Orders! | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846552 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446603 | 1735168057 | 890 | 475300191825655 | 1 | 4.1294703157236E+14 | 1717052400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212380470800779 | shopcrossbow.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | {{product.name}} | {{product.description}} | https://shopcrossbow.com/products/heather-benjamin-claw-arrowhead-bolo?utm_campaign={{campaign.name}} | 1716053667 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442419409_1000954258286631_4377411983348532002_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nCcAOOLBv7EQ7kNvgHubHSB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBYyy97imU1tf2L4oFvUUQkNTtpxmATv24iTpdVmcq9LQ&oe=6663FD33 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444763530_1185121005708842_837956208575167369_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k6j6dxO7pzIQ7kNvgEMQk3L&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBgGRJroocaZ_jI0MtQTpMeD9pBLS5ze7nhhbmxanOhFQ&oe=66640DE3 | 0 | 3 | Free Shipping on All Bolo Tie Orders! | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846553 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446603 | 1735168057 | 890 | 475300191825655 | 1 | 4.1294703157236E+14 | 1717052400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212380470800779 | shopcrossbow.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | {{product.name}} | {{product.description}} | https://shopcrossbow.com/products/heather-benjamin-claw-arrowhead-bolo?utm_campaign={{campaign.name}} | 1716053667 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442419409_1000954258286631_4377411983348532002_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nCcAOOLBv7EQ7kNvgHubHSB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBYyy97imU1tf2L4oFvUUQkNTtpxmATv24iTpdVmcq9LQ&oe=6663FD33 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444763530_1185121005708842_837956208575167369_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k6j6dxO7pzIQ7kNvgEMQk3L&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBgGRJroocaZ_jI0MtQTpMeD9pBLS5ze7nhhbmxanOhFQ&oe=66640DE3 | 0 | 3 | Free Shipping on All Bolo Tie Orders! | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846554 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446603 | 1735168058 | 890 | 475300191825655 | 1 | 4.1294703157236E+14 | 1717052400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212380470800779 | shopcrossbow.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | {{product.name}} | {{product.description}} | https://shopcrossbow.com/products/heather-benjamin-claw-arrowhead-bolo?utm_campaign={{campaign.name}} | 1716053667 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442419409_1000954258286631_4377411983348532002_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nCcAOOLBv7EQ7kNvgHubHSB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBYyy97imU1tf2L4oFvUUQkNTtpxmATv24iTpdVmcq9LQ&oe=6663FD33 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444763530_1185121005708842_837956208575167369_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k6j6dxO7pzIQ7kNvgEMQk3L&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBgGRJroocaZ_jI0MtQTpMeD9pBLS5ze7nhhbmxanOhFQ&oe=66640DE3 | 0 | 3 | Free Shipping on All Bolo Tie Orders! | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846555 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446603 | 1735168058 | 890 | 475300191825655 | 1 | 4.1294703157236E+14 | 1717052400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212380470800779 | shopcrossbow.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | {{product.name}} | {{product.description}} | https://shopcrossbow.com/products/heather-benjamin-claw-arrowhead-bolo?utm_campaign={{campaign.name}} | 1716053667 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442419409_1000954258286631_4377411983348532002_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nCcAOOLBv7EQ7kNvgHubHSB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBYyy97imU1tf2L4oFvUUQkNTtpxmATv24iTpdVmcq9LQ&oe=6663FD33 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444763530_1185121005708842_837956208575167369_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k6j6dxO7pzIQ7kNvgEMQk3L&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBgGRJroocaZ_jI0MtQTpMeD9pBLS5ze7nhhbmxanOhFQ&oe=66640DE3 | 0 | 3 | Free Shipping on All Bolo Tie Orders! | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846556 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446603 | 1735168058 | 890 | 475300191825655 | 1 | 4.1294703157236E+14 | 1717052400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212380470800779 | shopcrossbow.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | {{product.name}} | {{product.description}} | https://shopcrossbow.com/products/heather-benjamin-claw-arrowhead-bolo?utm_campaign={{campaign.name}} | 1716053667 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442419409_1000954258286631_4377411983348532002_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nCcAOOLBv7EQ7kNvgHubHSB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBYyy97imU1tf2L4oFvUUQkNTtpxmATv24iTpdVmcq9LQ&oe=6663FD33 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444763530_1185121005708842_837956208575167369_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k6j6dxO7pzIQ7kNvgEMQk3L&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBgGRJroocaZ_jI0MtQTpMeD9pBLS5ze7nhhbmxanOhFQ&oe=66640DE3 | 0 | 3 | Free Shipping on All Bolo Tie Orders! | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846557 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446603 | 1735168058 | 890 | 475300191825655 | 1 | 4.1294703157236E+14 | 1717052400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212380470800779 | shopcrossbow.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | {{product.name}} | {{product.description}} | https://shopcrossbow.com/products/heather-benjamin-claw-arrowhead-bolo?utm_campaign={{campaign.name}} | 1716053667 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442419409_1000954258286631_4377411983348532002_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nCcAOOLBv7EQ7kNvgHubHSB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBYyy97imU1tf2L4oFvUUQkNTtpxmATv24iTpdVmcq9LQ&oe=6663FD33 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444763530_1185121005708842_837956208575167369_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k6j6dxO7pzIQ7kNvgEMQk3L&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBgGRJroocaZ_jI0MtQTpMeD9pBLS5ze7nhhbmxanOhFQ&oe=66640DE3 | 0 | 3 | Free Shipping on All Bolo Tie Orders! | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846558 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446603 | 1735168058 | 890 | 475300191825655 | 1 | 4.1294703157236E+14 | 1717052400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212380470800779 | shopcrossbow.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | {{product.name}} | {{product.description}} | https://shopcrossbow.com/products/heather-benjamin-claw-arrowhead-bolo?utm_campaign={{campaign.name}} | 1716053667 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442419409_1000954258286631_4377411983348532002_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nCcAOOLBv7EQ7kNvgHubHSB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBYyy97imU1tf2L4oFvUUQkNTtpxmATv24iTpdVmcq9LQ&oe=6663FD33 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444763530_1185121005708842_837956208575167369_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k6j6dxO7pzIQ7kNvgEMQk3L&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBgGRJroocaZ_jI0MtQTpMeD9pBLS5ze7nhhbmxanOhFQ&oe=66640DE3 | 0 | 3 | Free Shipping on All Bolo Tie Orders! | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846559 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446603 | 1735168059 | 890 | 475300191825655 | 1 | 4.1294703157236E+14 | 1717052400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212380470800779 | shopcrossbow.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | {{product.name}} | {{product.description}} | https://shopcrossbow.com/products/heather-benjamin-claw-arrowhead-bolo?utm_campaign={{campaign.name}} | 1716053667 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442419409_1000954258286631_4377411983348532002_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nCcAOOLBv7EQ7kNvgHubHSB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBYyy97imU1tf2L4oFvUUQkNTtpxmATv24iTpdVmcq9LQ&oe=6663FD33 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444763530_1185121005708842_837956208575167369_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k6j6dxO7pzIQ7kNvgEMQk3L&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBgGRJroocaZ_jI0MtQTpMeD9pBLS5ze7nhhbmxanOhFQ&oe=66640DE3 | 0 | 3 | Free Shipping on All Bolo Tie Orders! | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846560 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446603 | 1735168059 | 890 | 475300191825655 | 1 | 4.1294703157236E+14 | 1717052400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212380470800779 | shopcrossbow.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | {{product.name}} | {{product.description}} | https://shopcrossbow.com/products/heather-benjamin-claw-arrowhead-bolo?utm_campaign={{campaign.name}} | 1716053667 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442419409_1000954258286631_4377411983348532002_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nCcAOOLBv7EQ7kNvgHubHSB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBYyy97imU1tf2L4oFvUUQkNTtpxmATv24iTpdVmcq9LQ&oe=6663FD33 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444763530_1185121005708842_837956208575167369_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k6j6dxO7pzIQ7kNvgEMQk3L&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBgGRJroocaZ_jI0MtQTpMeD9pBLS5ze7nhhbmxanOhFQ&oe=66640DE3 | 0 | 3 | Free Shipping on All Bolo Tie Orders! | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846561 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446603 | 1735168059 | 890 | 475300191825655 | 1 | 4.1294703157236E+14 | 1717052400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212380470800779 | shopcrossbow.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | {{product.name}} | {{product.description}} | https://shopcrossbow.com/products/heather-benjamin-claw-arrowhead-bolo?utm_campaign={{campaign.name}} | 1716053667 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442419409_1000954258286631_4377411983348532002_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nCcAOOLBv7EQ7kNvgHubHSB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBYyy97imU1tf2L4oFvUUQkNTtpxmATv24iTpdVmcq9LQ&oe=6663FD33 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444763530_1185121005708842_837956208575167369_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k6j6dxO7pzIQ7kNvgEMQk3L&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBgGRJroocaZ_jI0MtQTpMeD9pBLS5ze7nhhbmxanOhFQ&oe=66640DE3 | 0 | 3 | Free Shipping on All Bolo Tie Orders! | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846571 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446603 | 1735168060 | 890 | 1517758279094768 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212380660540779 | shopcrossbow.com | Shop Now | 3033 | NONE | dpa | DOG LEASH | Discover unique handcrafted leather goods, custom hats, western wear, jewelry, and accessories for men and women. Visit us in Telluride, CO, or shop online for artesianal creations from our talented team of craftswomen. | https://www.crossbowleather.com/ | 1716054133 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/443862248_992595925794096_5511976783121626754_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kXZMBVKwPIMQ7kNvgG8uGfP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBPDO_LNNnTMQP6hTd-sShQmA__7AdOQ513bHTlHC7oug&oe=6663E8EB | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/443699096_308295012320090_7490075808420689746_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B29IjXeUpBUQ7kNvgGJFzy6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC0oPPUrorwZbewgBB6IzNcaQNhdRnmpvo4U4b5zieF9g&oe=6663E303 | 0 | 3 | Free Shipping on Orders $200+ | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846572 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446603 | 1735168060 | 890 | 1517758279094768 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212380660540779 | shopcrossbow.com | Shop Now | 3033 | NONE | dpa | DOG LEASH | Discover unique handcrafted leather goods, custom hats, western wear, jewelry, and accessories for men and women. Visit us in Telluride, CO, or shop online for artesianal creations from our talented team of craftswomen. | https://www.crossbowleather.com/ | 1716054133 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/443862248_992595925794096_5511976783121626754_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kXZMBVKwPIMQ7kNvgG8uGfP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBPDO_LNNnTMQP6hTd-sShQmA__7AdOQ513bHTlHC7oug&oe=6663E8EB | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/443699096_308295012320090_7490075808420689746_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B29IjXeUpBUQ7kNvgGJFzy6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC0oPPUrorwZbewgBB6IzNcaQNhdRnmpvo4U4b5zieF9g&oe=6663E303 | 0 | 3 | Free Shipping on Orders $200+ | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846573 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446603 | 1735168060 | 890 | 1517758279094768 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212380660540779 | shopcrossbow.com | Shop Now | 3033 | NONE | dpa | DOG LEASH | Discover unique handcrafted leather goods, custom hats, western wear, jewelry, and accessories for men and women. Visit us in Telluride, CO, or shop online for artesianal creations from our talented team of craftswomen. | https://www.crossbowleather.com/ | 1716054133 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/443862248_992595925794096_5511976783121626754_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kXZMBVKwPIMQ7kNvgG8uGfP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBPDO_LNNnTMQP6hTd-sShQmA__7AdOQ513bHTlHC7oug&oe=6663E8EB | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/443699096_308295012320090_7490075808420689746_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B29IjXeUpBUQ7kNvgGJFzy6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC0oPPUrorwZbewgBB6IzNcaQNhdRnmpvo4U4b5zieF9g&oe=6663E303 | 0 | 3 | Free Shipping on Orders $200+ | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846574 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446603 | 1735168060 | 890 | 1517758279094768 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212380660540779 | shopcrossbow.com | Shop Now | 3033 | NONE | dpa | DOG LEASH | Discover unique handcrafted leather goods, custom hats, western wear, jewelry, and accessories for men and women. Visit us in Telluride, CO, or shop online for artesianal creations from our talented team of craftswomen. | https://www.crossbowleather.com/ | 1716054133 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/443862248_992595925794096_5511976783121626754_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kXZMBVKwPIMQ7kNvgG8uGfP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBPDO_LNNnTMQP6hTd-sShQmA__7AdOQ513bHTlHC7oug&oe=6663E8EB | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/443699096_308295012320090_7490075808420689746_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B29IjXeUpBUQ7kNvgGJFzy6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC0oPPUrorwZbewgBB6IzNcaQNhdRnmpvo4U4b5zieF9g&oe=6663E303 | 0 | 3 | Free Shipping on Orders $200+ | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846595 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 4:01 AM | 1717446604 | 1742806899 | 890 | 457641223304502 | 2 | 1.6190167922125E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100365976129594 | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | 120209190607930257 | play.google.com | Play game | NONE | video | Match-3 SLG👉 | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.global.pnck | 1717150951 | 1.0036597612959E+14 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447179514_842469867695562_5193710144527177762_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=457L3dkQ-KAQ7kNvgE-bZGk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBaZneH_yIsEQPz6-U1aFjSHb3tW8MuXbS-7ivmmwr0mw&oe=666406F2 | person_profile | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447067780_810584684037165_2951008301767230265_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SVXsoZPv_LkQ7kNvgE3ZuhV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCR4IS9PZ60V88vQLA1JU_ko5G6CmBRZs7wriVWhUmLow&oe=6663F653 | 0 | 3 | Recuit legendry heroes!🧙♂️ | Puzzles & Chaos | 13312 | https://facebook.com/PuzzlesAndChaos | 0 | PLAY_GAME | 1717138800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846600 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 8:14 AM | 1717446604 | 1742822063 | 890 | 678861607716094 | 1 | 4.696395854701E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100417419180980 | 0 | National Archery & Outdoors | 120208886791320160 | Call now | NONE | image | String & Cable SALE! | 1717095444 | 1.0041741918098E+14 | National Archery & Outdoors | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445777430_3739391829660199_459202745241564765_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aBTrzXsZU58Q7kNvgHwQpHF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCSW7RawBA9SP-dpV5-NPkV1y55ygZMuP6gTIdBXuDAKg&oe=66640841 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Get ahead of the game this year and SAVE BIG! From now until 8-1-2024 you SAVE $30 on your string and cable replacement for your compound or crossbow! | National Archery & Outdoors | 1508 | https://facebook.com/nationalarcheryandoutdoors | 0 | CALL_NOW | 1717052400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846660 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446606 | 1735168067 | 890 | 2350394028487311 | 1 | 4.1687643113596E+14 | 1715929200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1572180309763789 | 0 | DayDream | 120209832210870106 | instagram.com | Visit Instagram Profile | NONE | carousel | http://instagram.com/daydream_rollplay | 1715502943 | 1.5721803097638E+15 | DayDream | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441488596_356044523692123_2876433146947104897_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Ov4HCoo0xKkQ7kNvgHnV-3D&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDGWfDj0IhiCdsVW-a5lo8j-K7exPg-IXuQzeVbH2o4Aw&oe=666401A3 | person_profile | 0 | Rollplay | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441245146_1114862669820279_8401302131520551018_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ISAEgECw-rIQ7kNvgHOo0fW&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCZwNgLfHYCIqIhQjRSXdepxAqq-xeMFbe2afpsI-v9MQ&oe=6663E666 | 0 | 3 | DayDream | 265 | https://facebook.com/daydreamsoftware | 0 | VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE | 1715497200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846623 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 9:11 AM | 1717446605 | 1742825515 | 890 | 435150069465621 | 2 | 1.1043361906663E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100365976129594 | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | 120210794097270763 | play.google.com | Play game | NONE | video | The winter is coming! | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.global.pnck | 1716436801 | 1.0036597612959E+14 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442481548_1156605738990513_5347826215674255323_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HxIqwkV56AkQ7kNvgFVHpm1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDETS0_0Zo29_yUGVktW3ic7KfK3lyl1WE1Pm_FpDorkQ&oe=6663DD9D | person_profile | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445170037_308031429016623_9007463790171927218_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9n4nKn1XsA0Q7kNvgHxDr7i&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAelDpJqxDacbaf_o4VDMXdYBJESTh5sadSn_E5lp3mzA&oe=6664055A | 0 | 3 | 💪Can you defend the white walkers? | Puzzles & Chaos | 13312 | https://facebook.com/PuzzlesAndChaos | 0 | PLAY_GAME | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846626 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 10:28 AM | 1717446605 | 1742830135 | 890 | 1109054013533938 | 1 | 1.0064321741726E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100365976129594 | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | 120210793573340763 | play.google.com | Play game | NONE | video | Match-3 SLG👉 | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.global.pnck | 1716434885 | 1.0036597612959E+14 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444484962_962138258730948_520530746888538352_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gc4kUCAWANgQ7kNvgHWVVXk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCxzRZGlfChppw48rQH777tetuWgk8xXMSxvt54qMKKlg&oe=6663EE64 | person_profile | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444135624_472242818652846_6590043252240872313_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aiSM9gt-Q0QQ7kNvgGEw6TB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBqSgXC4_b4FznFFlwFUwqjioiue23uBhNICQulpWlVAw&oe=6663FA6F | 0 | 3 | Only 1% of all players have beaten this level. <br /> Will you give it a try?👍 | Puzzles & Chaos | 13312 | https://facebook.com/PuzzlesAndChaos | 0 | PLAY_GAME | 1716361200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846638 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446605 | 1735168071 | 890 | 292184883967378 | 4 | 3.1484091499465E+14 | 1716015600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 313000321890712 | 0 | Gaqqueb | 120210952886300454 | xorcyp.com | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐤𝐫𝐮𝐩𝐭𝐜𝐲 𝐒𝐚𝐥𝐞👉👉 Buy More Save More!!! | https://www.vyjnggf.com/products?handler=outdoor-gear&token=8H9tgskk | 1715768971 | 3.1300032189071E+14 | Gaqqueb | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436481696_443500681960150_285019546833616229_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bJmVExMpC9oQ7kNvgHLSj6K&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAACkzp9dtGyQV5G_OSqw1MkwjCIfK49OpQfV7HN_cLig&oe=6663EC84 | person_profile | 0 | Gaqqueb | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441540521_7429368013847753_7046223710132103922_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nj5gWF4badQQ7kNvgHHp7bA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC532Nr560MymZejsH2KswY2CsPLM4HnWYAO1GyLhIA0g&oe=6663E429 | 0 | 3 | Gaqqueb | 1 | https://facebook.com/61558872900229 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715842800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846661 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446606 | 1735168071 | 890 | 2350394028487311 | 1 | 4.1687643113596E+14 | 1715929200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1572180309763789 | 0 | DayDream | 120209832210870106 | instagram.com | Visit Instagram Profile | NONE | carousel | http://instagram.com/daydream_rollplay | 1715502943 | 1.5721803097638E+15 | DayDream | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441488596_356044523692123_2876433146947104897_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Ov4HCoo0xKkQ7kNvgHnV-3D&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDGWfDj0IhiCdsVW-a5lo8j-K7exPg-IXuQzeVbH2o4Aw&oe=666401A3 | person_profile | 0 | Rollplay | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441245146_1114862669820279_8401302131520551018_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ISAEgECw-rIQ7kNvgHOo0fW&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCZwNgLfHYCIqIhQjRSXdepxAqq-xeMFbe2afpsI-v9MQ&oe=6663E666 | 0 | 3 | DayDream | 265 | https://facebook.com/daydreamsoftware | 0 | VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE | 1715497200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846649 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446605 | 1735168072 | 890 | 960638535552038 | 1 | 4.1838879428119E+14 | 1717398000 | ig_ads_identity | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 108320958822588 | 0 | bost_art | 120210116426110207 | etsy.com | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | https://www.etsy.com/listing/1695269141/customizable-character-miniature-for-dd | 1715797740 | 1.0832095882259E+14 | bost_art | https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.2885-19/383210212_618396597129635_7761266387695384455_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s200x200&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=3fd06f&_nc_ohc=hnOt93df8BoQ7kNvgHFSn5R&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=00_AYB7ExUGAPVf45CV8Z8pEeeptXzyxCjK5Bl-EezhLmQeTg&oe=6663FCB3 | ig_ads_identity | 1 | Ryan Bost | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441531447_309277348885643_5964822950963480774_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HjelvBWoJGkQ7kNvgH7R9E8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAqMQJd7Dm7fWytfRjvTy4o9X6oUH9-MpD7XBXH3GxdGw&oe=66640F1C | 0 | 3 | bost_art | 0 | https://www.instagram.com/_u/bost_art | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715756400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846650 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446605 | 1735168072 | 890 | 960638535552038 | 1 | 4.1838879428119E+14 | 1717398000 | ig_ads_identity | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 108320958822588 | 0 | bost_art | 120210116426110207 | etsy.com | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | https://www.etsy.com/listing/1695269141/customizable-character-miniature-for-dd | 1715797740 | 1.0832095882259E+14 | bost_art | https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.2885-19/383210212_618396597129635_7761266387695384455_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s200x200&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=3fd06f&_nc_ohc=hnOt93df8BoQ7kNvgHFSn5R&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=00_AYB7ExUGAPVf45CV8Z8pEeeptXzyxCjK5Bl-EezhLmQeTg&oe=6663FCB3 | ig_ads_identity | 1 | Ryan Bost | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441531447_309277348885643_5964822950963480774_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HjelvBWoJGkQ7kNvgH7R9E8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAqMQJd7Dm7fWytfRjvTy4o9X6oUH9-MpD7XBXH3GxdGw&oe=66640F1C | 0 | 3 | bost_art | 0 | https://www.instagram.com/_u/bost_art | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715756400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846666 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446606 | 1735168072 | 890 | 816075273269946 | 1 | 1.2077429106369E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 528686483906620 | 0 | The Book Folks | 6581304895381 | amazon.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Three bestselling mysteries 99¢ on Kindle now! | A super-value box set of the first three detectives Sunita Roy and Gavin Roscoe murder mysteries set in the Midlands, written by Tony Bassett. Just 99¢ now. FREE with Kindle Unlimited. | https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D3JW4NX1 | 1715252305 | 5.2868648390662E+14 | The Book Folks | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440968051_460028913222873_3111979919942169086_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Medrr6h5FvgQ7kNvgG_zbBA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDmPGa3nLbquaN_TrA_B03f9CiRFYqj3YfOjcaYDdDK2A&oe=666403D6 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Meet detective Sunita Roy as she tackles urban crime and a white man's world. Just 99¢ on Kindle... Start binge-reading now!⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | The Book Folks | 9334 | https://facebook.com/thebookfolks | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846667 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446606 | 1735168072 | 890 | 816075273269946 | 1 | 1.2077429106369E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 528686483906620 | 0 | The Book Folks | 6581304895381 | amazon.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Three bestselling mysteries 99¢ on Kindle now! | A super-value box set of the first three detectives Sunita Roy and Gavin Roscoe murder mysteries set in the Midlands, written by Tony Bassett. Just 99¢ now. FREE with Kindle Unlimited. | https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D3JW4NX1 | 1715252305 | 5.2868648390662E+14 | The Book Folks | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440968051_460028913222873_3111979919942169086_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Medrr6h5FvgQ7kNvgG_zbBA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDmPGa3nLbquaN_TrA_B03f9CiRFYqj3YfOjcaYDdDK2A&oe=666403D6 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Meet detective Sunita Roy as she tackles urban crime and a white man's world. Just 99¢ on Kindle... Start binge-reading now!⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | The Book Folks | 9334 | https://facebook.com/thebookfolks | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715238000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846668 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446606 | 1735168072 | 890 | 1379686109396471 | 2 | 2.7716184146071E+14 | 1715324400 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 1 | 101410031779066 | 0 | Igoldencnc | 120211004971080022 | fb.me | Get quote | NONE | video | http://fb.me/ | 1715146667 | 1.0141003177907E+14 | Igoldencnc | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440383891_787423983320202_6230827374274117953_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ERtrpwCz7vcQ7kNvgFOAv8i&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC5I5tRvZmbXTwv7EX-hlz9_MWsFYqKtS6ORlo5NMtxcg&oe=6663F83E | person_profile | 0 | iGOLDENCNC | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440351911_1179579563454995_8042680497027956136_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dJbCcpO8ZaAQ7kNvgHZ-FEe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA9DgX3m5J1RfBKFLmy7c3Z5N2VwcKLItPcPwEXI5Uajw&oe=6663F333 | 0 | 3 | 🛒Crossbow portable cnc plasma cutting machine<br /> <br /> 🟢Stable structure and long life<br /> 🟢Easy to move<br /> 🟢Economical and practical<br /> 🟩The portable CNC cutting machine is an ideal upgrade <br /> <br /> product to replace handheld flame-cutting equipment, handheld plasma cutting devices, profiling cutting machines and semi-automatic cutting carts. The use is as flexible and convenient as the cutting trolley, and it can be moved at will without occupying a fixed site. It is a CNC equipment specially used for sheet metal blanking.<br /> ⏳If you are interested, fill out the form for more information. | Igoldencnc | 3410 | https://facebook.com/igoldencnc | 0 | GET_QUOTE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846682 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446606 | 1735168073 | 890 | 410256971860466 | 1 | 1.2477275099464E+15 | 1714460400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 136491149555680 | 0 | FlameWitch | 6598181197353 | joyread.com | Learn more | NONE | image | The Alpha King And His Cursed Half-breed | "You are mine, little wolf. Deny our bond, and you defy the laws that govern us all," Azrael's words dripped with quiet menace. In a world where werewolves live amongst humans, Raven Wildheart has always been the outcast. Born a half-breed unable to fully shift, she faced ridicule and rejection from... | https://www.joyread.com/h5/7175/1?id=7175&lang=en&package_type=2001&uid=5299126 | 1714374836 | 1.3649114955568E+14 | FlameWitch | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439237084_426481886682491_7163669719455130228_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-i4v6kZlJi0Q7kNvgEYNBi1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAEeN9EPqCnBo29KreQcG8nCoS_U6SYK3jxBoOVx7RpRQ&oe=66640045 | person_profile | 0 | FlameWitch | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438119256_978082180509685_2224106422312830785_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=C60qewaBSZ8Q7kNvgF1Ff_A&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAzDrb-YyIezt9j4Ir9XzUk2GvQlpJumo0W2v9AWuhSNg&oe=6663E0E7 | 0 | 3 | "You are mine, little wolf. Deny our bond, and you defy the laws that govern us all," Azrael's words dripped with quiet menace.<br /> <br /> In a world where werewolves live amongst humans, Raven Wildheart has always been the outcast. Born a half-breed unable to fully shift, she faced ridicule and rejection from her pack, including three failed mate bonds. Scarred by her tragic past, Raven fled, embracing her human side—until fate intervened.<br /> <br /> *******************<br /> <br /> Raven's POV:<br /> <br /> "You honestly think, I, Kalen Blackmane, would take you as my mate? Is the Moon Goddess playing a sick joke on me?" he growled, his eyes shifting as I could tell he was battling his inner wolf. <br /> "I...I am sorry, I didn't—" I stammered, cowering under his intense gaze.<br /> <br /> "Oh, shut up, omega. How can I, the future Alpha of this pack, be mated to an omega like you? Worse, a half-breed who can't even shift?" His words cut deep as I sat in the corner, shoulders shaking, trying to hold back the tears threatening to spill.<br /> <br /> "Stand up," he commanded, his alpha tone compelling me to obey, even unwillingly. As an omega, those of alpha blood made us cower and submit. I quickly stood up, keeping a respectful distance. <br /> Kalen took a step back, his nose wrinkling in disgust. "You stink. When was the last time you even showered?" He spat the words like venom. How could I not reek when I woke at 4 am every day, worked like a slave in this pack house, and went to bed at 11 pm? It was summertime, for the Moon Goddess's sake—of course, I would sweat from such relentless labor under the unforgiving heat. But I knew better than to rebut this future alpha and held my tongue.<br /> <br /> "I, Kalen Blackmane, future alpha of the Novilian Pack, reject you, Raven Wildheart, as my mate and future luna." There, he said the words I knew were coming, the same words I had heard twice before. Oh yes, the Moon Goddess had been playing a sick joke on me ever since I turned 18, giving me mate after mate, only for Kalen to be the third rejection. They all rejected me because I was a weak half-breed who couldn't shift.<br /> <br /> "Say it," he growled, jolting me back from my thoughts. <br /> "I, Raven Wildheart, accept your rejection," I whispered, the pain searing through my heart like a hot blade. I had heard stories of how excruciating the pain was when rejected by one with alpha blood, but now I knew they were telling the truth. A searing agony ripped through my chest, as if someone had plunged a white-hot dagger into my heart and twisted it viciously. Every nerve ending felt like it was being set ablaze, the fiery torment spreading through my veins. I gasped for air, clutching my chest as waves of anguish crashed over me, threatening to drown me in a sea of torment.<br /> <br /> I could tell he was also in pain from breaking our mate bond, though not as severely as me. Breaking a mate bond was no easy feat, but these men had been doing it to me so easily. But hey, I didn't blame them—who would want me?<br /> <br /> Kalen stormed out of the storeroom, and as soon as he left, I fell to my knees, clutching my chest in agony, the searing pain refusing to subside. Tears streamed down my face as I curled into a ball on the cold, hard floor, my body wracked with sobs. How much more rejection could I endure before I shattered completely?<br /> <br /> I don't know how long I laid there, curled up on that cold, hard floor, body wracked with sobs. It could've been minutes or hours—the agony was so all-consuming that time ceased to have any meaning. This brutal rejection was just the latest in a long line of suffering I'd endured in my cursed life.<br /> <br /> My mother, Zahara Wildheart, was an omega who had dared to love a human man—my father, Ezra Ash, a skilled hunter. Their unconventional union had caused quite the scandal in our pack, the Novilian wolves, but my parents didn't care. They had me, and we were a happy little family, my father's human nature balancing out my mother's calmer omega wolf.<br /> <br /> But on my 18th birthday, the pivotal day I was supposed to undergo my first shift into a wolf...nothing happened. We stayed up all night, my parents trying in vain to coax out my wolf, to trigger that elusive first transformation. But no matter what we tried, I remained stubbornly human, a cruel reality that dawned on us with the rising sun.<br /> <br /> My mother held me as I sobbed, promising it didn't matter, that I was her precious daughter no matter what. My father stroked my hair, his warm, earthy scent enveloping me as he said we'd figure this out together. United, they vowed to stand by me, to protect me from those who would surely judge me as less for being the half-breed who couldn't shift.<br /> <br /> If only we'd known then just how fleeting that promise would be.<br /> That very night, rogue wolves—savage, feral ones with no pack—attacked our home. My father fought valiantly with his crossbow and blades, but how could a mere human hope to fend off monsters? I still have nightmares about the snarls, the snapping jaws, his anguished cries as they tore him apart before my eyes.<br /> My mother shifted with a terrifying roar, her deep auburn fur glistening in the moonlight as she threw herself at the rogues. I watched in horror as her blood spilled, staining her beautiful coat, but she kept fighting to allow me to escape. With her dying breaths, she screamed for me to run, to save myself.<br /> <br /> So I ran. I ran until my legs gave out, collapsing in the forest just as the sun began to peek over the horizon. When I awoke, I was surrounded by Novilian pack guards who had tracked the rogue scent. They brought me, broken and sobbing, back to the pack lands where Alpha Carter Blackmane took me in, his gruff words saying it was the honorable thing to do.<br /> <br /> But the "mercy" of giving me a home again in the pack was a cruel lie. Once there, I was treated as an outcast, a pitiful half-breed who had been too weak to manifest her wolf, too pathetic to save my own parents. The whispers, the mocking looks, the shoves when no one was watching—it never ended.<br /> <br /> For two years, I endured it all. The backbreaking labor them deemed fit for someone as low as me—cooking, cleaning, tending to their needs from sunrise to sunset. The unrelenting misery of being an omega with no wolf, a non-entity unworthy of being treated as anything more than vermin underfoot.<br /> <br /> Enough. I had endured enough suffering in my two decades of life. Scrambling to my feet, I didn't even try holding back the tears as I fled the storeroom, fled the mocking jeers and glares of the other wolves. Let them laugh—this would be the last time they ever saw me. <br /> <br /> I burst into the small room I'd been allocated and grabbed the tattered rucksack, flinging in the few meager possessions I owned—some clothes, a couple of precious mementos from my parents, and most importantly, the documents proving my human identity, my birth certificate and social security information.<br /> <br /> My hands shook as I quickly scribbled a note to Alpha Blackmane:<br /> "I quit. I'm leaving the pack. Don't try to find me—from this day on, I'll live among the humans as one of them. I am officially a rogue wolf, free from your judgment and cruelty."<br /> <br /> Slinging the rucksack over my shoulder, I cast one last glance around the cramped, dingy space that had been my whole world for far too long. Then, without a shred of regret, I turned and strode out, head held high.<br /> <br /> I marched through the Novilian pack village, drawing confused looks but no confrontation—even the cockiest of wolves wouldn't dare challenge a rogue, no matter how nonthreatening they might think me. My heart hammered in my chest, but I kept going, not allowing myself to pause or look back.<br /> <br /> Finally, I reached the tree line cloaking the eastern border of the territory. The boundary where Blackmane laws no longer applied. Drawing a deep, resolute breath, I stepped across that invisible line, leaving the world of my birth behind.<br /> I didn't stop walking until I'd made it halfway through the forest separating the pack lands from the nearest human town. Only then did I pause, sinking down to sit on a fallen log as the weight of what I'd done finally hit me.<br /> <br /> I was alone now. Utterly alone in the world, with no alpha's protection, no family, no home. Just me, a half-human girl with frail human limitations in a supernatural world of powerful wolves.<br /> But I was also free—free from the persecution, the daily torment of being seen as a defective mistake. Pulling my knees to my chest, I let the tears flow again, this time not from anguish but from the uplifting realization that I would choose my own path now.<br /> Resting my forehead on my knees, I whispered fiercely, "I have had enough, Goddess. I won't be coming back, not ever. I'll find my own way, with or without the wolf inside me."<br /> <br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fpage.joyreadings.com%2Fh5-book-share.html%3Fid%3D7175%26lang%3Den%26is_from_myscroll%3D1%26is_composition_contest%3D0&h=AT0PIE57nT1ohBjA4i_4QWuDVTKzVPna49YQ5wBuHFDUdD9eiqUT5F2wTprjRfNCiHj8IM4OgBIGoXlUv1im-pqa3uSCXfNj6PU-LxpNjLeNwJ3ZEp2bPaVvvswZ-nf-xGfvOTSqJdNor-7qtsNfnY8e-i-Mhw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://page.joyreadings.com/h5-book-share.html?id=7175&lang=en&is_from_myscroll=1&is_composition_contest=0</a> | FlameWitch | 11 | https://facebook.com/flamewitch | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714374000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846683 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446606 | 1735168073 | 890 | 922398232905030 | 1 | 1.5997476707837E+15 | 1714978800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 102045096204299 | 0 | A knight of the seven kingdoms : the hedge knight | 120208711919360253 | instagram.com | Visit Instagram profile | NONE | video | http://instagram.com/westeroscontent_tunisia | 1714358691 | 1.020450962043E+14 | A knight of the seven kingdoms : the hedge knight | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440371921_1133158534497408_9176131048586790803_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YLXNRV1aVX8Q7kNvgGrlb6C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCqsY00vB2z-KP9aOgAFOjFpR4PcZiHB37xpmXzs7NnEQ&oe=66640C22 | person_profile | 0 | Haithem kefi : A song of ice and fire content | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440332084_747078404273620_2966547962644369017_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HAvqMrB0e20Q7kNvgGFgZJq&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBSqN-YKGv98sXO6wvItH76asa_Leyt4Cq8tpNzjtUPyA&oe=6663E3CC | 0 | 3 | "In game of thrones Season 4 finale, and in 'A Storm of Swords' Chapter 77, Tyrion kills his father Tywin Lannister. While the fate of Tywin remains consistent in both the books and the show, the circumstances leading to his death differ. <br /> In the show, the argument revolves around Shae, and Tywin's derogatory remark about her prompts Tyrion to take action. However, in the books, Tyrion's motive is rooted in the quest to find his wife Tysha. <br /> When questioning Tywin about her whereabouts, Tywin callously responds with 'wherever whores go.' <br /> This haunting phrase not only triggers Tyrion to kill his father but also becomes a recurring inquiry in his subsequent encounters, as he grapples with the haunting question, 'where do whores go?'"<br /> #got#asoiaf#asos#tywin#tyrion#lannister | A knight of the seven kingdoms : the hedge knight | 6 | https://facebook.com/100091856498706 | 0 | VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE | 1714287600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846684 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446606 | 1735168073 | 890 | 1863346554105790 | 2 | 8.0606067471342E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100365976129594 | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | 120209871483330763 | play.google.com | Play game | NONE | video | Become a wizard! | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.global.pnck | 1714271555 | 1.0036597612959E+14 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440741673_455354516933930_7335940074909228648_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fnsThFhMHYYQ7kNvgFvUBK3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDz-3PdocFbazK6Oe9I9CX7IyCKRXBsZnXD8_DdpSO-0w&oe=6663FCC2 | person_profile | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440772341_1796052694208989_1306402526640894314_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cdezyGvuxiYQ7kNvgGZ5qru&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCcQ7mR4aRC9oDatE_GLO4CuY6yJmMhtVFCn1v5wfTjsQ&oe=6663F538 | 0 | 3 | 👻I bet you've never seen a game like this before! | Puzzles & Chaos | 13312 | https://facebook.com/PuzzlesAndChaos | 0 | PLAY_GAME | 1714201200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846686 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446606 | 1735168073 | 890 | 1035370847951354 | 1 | 1.3884904818536E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100365976129594 | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | 120209871451720763 | play.google.com | Play game | NONE | video | The winter is coming | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.global.pnck | 1714271400 | 1.0036597612959E+14 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440249246_958835455771303_497700349176370997_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yVAFJwGbYbsQ7kNvgE8TLth&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDdZ4fj5lxJmYBU9r3rU8ZurY4vz4os57xwsILzOkac9w&oe=6663F3D7 | person_profile | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440234326_1619085028888163_8309286381098687106_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8wDU-TLkomkQ7kNvgGABqZs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCvYY7HEQe5Bbb3wLAH8QUBIdW-LUTLS-q8TiQFIuVrpA&oe=6664015B | 0 | 3 | Save your home through match-3 combat.⚠ | Puzzles & Chaos | 13312 | https://facebook.com/PuzzlesAndChaos | 0 | PLAY_GAME | 1714201200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846687 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446607 | 1735168073 | 890 | 3727590340817748 | 1 | 9.6638668831912E+14 | 1714806000 | ig_ads_identity | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 1 | 106587555400137 | 0 | tathletes_peformance | 120212748946080370 | instagram.com | Visit Instagram profile | NONE | video | http://instagram.com/tathletes_peformance | 1714175306 | 1.0658755540014E+14 | tathletes_peformance | https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.2885-19/440214031_3542045169439726_6195483002944464235_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s200x200&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=3fd06f&_nc_ohc=ldEbvUyHtKEQ7kNvgE9PauH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=00_AYAnoSZyoKFewl1sknfMDz4c-HnJzGzXEUiksGljmJLFOA&oe=6663EAC2 | ig_ads_identity | 1 | Tarek Joe Johnson | TAP T-Athletes Performance | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440180659_975968406894013_3806282182845335302_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yswyJkqgEiYQ7kNvgHhiSiW&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBgLXYjgQU551gpXaIQ3gsBw5JkYIR50_6BGfR16j3flw&oe=6663DE79 | 0 | 3 | Training<br /> <br /> #speed #speedtraining #agilitytraining #athlete #athletetraining #injureprevention #boxjump #injuryrecovery #preseason #preseasontraining #football #Footballdrill #slowfeetdonteat #soccertraining #soccer #explosivetraining #functionaltraining #basketball #baseball #rugby #hipflexors #personaltrainer #sportsperformance #strengthtraining #plyometrictraining #fastfootwork #sportsperformancecoach #coaching #speedandagilitytraining #trackandfield | tathletes_peformance | 0 | https://www.instagram.com/_u/tathletes_peformance | 0 | VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846688 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446607 | 1735168073 | 890 | 470906708696205 | 1 | 4.0000388962409E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108215068960584 | 0 | Sword Chronicles: Awaken | 120209016472580057 | play.google.com | Install now | NONE | image | ⚠ WARNING-ADDICTIVE ⚠ | 100 pulls and 3 SSR heroes: Zhang Liao, LingQi and Zhuge Liang for beginners. | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.qoolandgames.swordchronicles.gp.us | 1714121162 | 1.0821506896058E+14 | Sword Chronicles: Awaken | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438059704_1811318919294498_8814611532009892225_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Y-YHxar1pRQQ7kNvgGDRkTX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBpEIUFB1KzSZ6_wHk4Hs1CiicnOKk9JYPtbUaskcZ6kg&oe=66640CA1 | person_profile | 0 | Sword Chronicles: Awaken | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438059266_7387814914666422_1413135914725240296_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WeDx6kujS-oQ7kNvgGpBU2h&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAK4jes4IXrpsgFJz7asXxFJIEEmhsP5UrwJ6uO1tEJOA&oe=666404E1 | 0 | 3 | 🔥Join the battle for supremacy! <br /> 🌟Over 100 epic heroes, thousands of lineups!<br /> 🎁Beginners can get up to 100 pulls for FREE! | Sword Chronicles: Awaken | 15477 | https://facebook.com/SCAwaken | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846690 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446607 | 1735168074 | 890 | 449814504236278 | 1 | 1.2163052793348E+15 | 1714287600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 177317582125576 | 0 | Mobile Game Mania | 120208602856580783 | play.google.com | Install now | NONE | video | Play for FREE! | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.funplus.kingofavalon | 1714043490 | 1.7731758212558E+14 | Mobile Game Mania | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438773706_1140179577008459_4614785664353617785_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JJWpOb8PdycQ7kNvgGcKENX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAo5T8xgxI7bBebgOLgTfYsefnE01DvLbat6xLsZZMZRg&oe=6663FD52 | person_profile | 0 | Mobile Game Mania | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438805976_1429012881061467_5826666071058620856_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ntEzZX0dLSYQ7kNvgG_2HVM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBxDD4LJXZCd6pHDgCaw8-r8Ky0jjpem3KQA8TbuSVL7Q&oe=6663F61F | 0 | 3 | Why is this game so fun?! Play Now! | Mobile Game Mania | 125 | https://facebook.com/61553758222172 | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1714028400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846691 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446607 | 1735168074 | 890 | 1129303424945328 | 1 | 8.16731590481E+14 | 1714287600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 177317582125576 | 0 | Mobile Game Mania | 120208602846130783 | play.google.com | Install now | NONE | video | Play for FREE! | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.funplus.kingofavalon | 1714043531 | 1.7731758212558E+14 | Mobile Game Mania | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438729943_1783217275532006_7386429878176938314_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VhTrfFc1YK4Q7kNvgHftpr1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAKjbAXeEFj3EB5iXwjAxwxnK84qVizbrnX9pBEQoZ73Q&oe=66640776 | person_profile | 0 | Mobile Game Mania | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440108718_967347194470142_7664956135657334519_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DMLftGWQITgQ7kNvgGbCjbS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDVwKfkZIlwurbY-_SHqAsUxzVhZWCqTsfwsXjG0b0rhA&oe=6664153D | 0 | 3 | Why is this game so fun?! Play Now! | Mobile Game Mania | 125 | https://facebook.com/61553758222172 | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1714028400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846692 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446607 | 1735168074 | 890 | 988219549602205 | 1 | 3.3628846242712E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 151755314678403 | 0 | BUDK Gifts | 120207372054750408 | budk.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Experience a new level of fun with the toothpick launcher crossbow! 🏹 | Discover a new way to have fun with the toothpick launcher crossbow! With pinpoint accuracy, this unique gadget turns ordinary toothpicks into exciting projectiles. Perfect for target practice or just to impress your friends, it's a playful addition to your gadget collection. Ready, aim, and launch into fun! Get yours today! | https://www.budk.com/Budk-Gifts?sourcecode=BKGFCA24 | 1713981265 | 1.517553146784E+14 | BUDK Gifts | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439797040_984410896380288_2616479791961781776_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2cHYzZv4XYUQ7kNvgFHE9Ls&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBdeHYuzv3qD3Sj0JPP7cEmWOqFyUsslwUe18RnIGHGpg&oe=6663E104 | person_profile | 0 | BUDK Gifts | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439893962_1490001235252673_5176909179735014305_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aiikVo7u1msQ7kNvgEQ9DIY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCneBmlM65-aSbwmBE-0oWNdgMu_MJJWUv0xC0DqPQ8qA&oe=6663F7C9 | 0 | 3 | Aim with precision! The toothpick launcher crossbow delivers pinpoint accuracy. Get yours today! | BUDK Gifts | 1319 | https://facebook.com/61551819670022 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1713942000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846693 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446607 | 1735168075 | 890 | 988219549602205 | 1 | 3.3628846242712E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 151755314678403 | 0 | BUDK Gifts | 120207372054750408 | budk.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Experience a new level of fun with the toothpick launcher crossbow! 🏹 | Discover a new way to have fun with the toothpick launcher crossbow! With pinpoint accuracy, this unique gadget turns ordinary toothpicks into exciting projectiles. Perfect for target practice or just to impress your friends, it's a playful addition to your gadget collection. Ready, aim, and launch into fun! Get yours today! | https://www.budk.com/Budk-Gifts?sourcecode=BKGFCA24 | 1713981265 | 1.517553146784E+14 | BUDK Gifts | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439797040_984410896380288_2616479791961781776_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2cHYzZv4XYUQ7kNvgFHE9Ls&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBdeHYuzv3qD3Sj0JPP7cEmWOqFyUsslwUe18RnIGHGpg&oe=6663E104 | person_profile | 0 | BUDK Gifts | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439893962_1490001235252673_5176909179735014305_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aiikVo7u1msQ7kNvgEQ9DIY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCneBmlM65-aSbwmBE-0oWNdgMu_MJJWUv0xC0DqPQ8qA&oe=6663F7C9 | 0 | 3 | Aim with precision! The toothpick launcher crossbow delivers pinpoint accuracy. Get yours today! | BUDK Gifts | 1319 | https://facebook.com/61551819670022 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1713942000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846694 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446607 | 1735168075 | 890 | 988219549602205 | 1 | 3.3628846242712E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 151755314678403 | 0 | BUDK Gifts | 120207372054750408 | budk.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Experience a new level of fun with the toothpick launcher crossbow! 🏹 | Discover a new way to have fun with the toothpick launcher crossbow! With pinpoint accuracy, this unique gadget turns ordinary toothpicks into exciting projectiles. Perfect for target practice or just to impress your friends, it's a playful addition to your gadget collection. Ready, aim, and launch into fun! Get yours today! | https://www.budk.com/Budk-Gifts?sourcecode=BKGFCA24 | 1713981265 | 1.517553146784E+14 | BUDK Gifts | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439797040_984410896380288_2616479791961781776_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2cHYzZv4XYUQ7kNvgFHE9Ls&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBdeHYuzv3qD3Sj0JPP7cEmWOqFyUsslwUe18RnIGHGpg&oe=6663E104 | person_profile | 0 | BUDK Gifts | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439893962_1490001235252673_5176909179735014305_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aiikVo7u1msQ7kNvgEQ9DIY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCneBmlM65-aSbwmBE-0oWNdgMu_MJJWUv0xC0DqPQ8qA&oe=6663F7C9 | 0 | 3 | Aim with precision! The toothpick launcher crossbow delivers pinpoint accuracy. Get yours today! | BUDK Gifts | 1319 | https://facebook.com/61551819670022 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1713942000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846695 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446607 | 1735168075 | 890 | 988219549602205 | 1 | 3.3628846242712E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 151755314678403 | 0 | BUDK Gifts | 120207372054750408 | budk.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Experience a new level of fun with the toothpick launcher crossbow! 🏹 | Discover a new way to have fun with the toothpick launcher crossbow! With pinpoint accuracy, this unique gadget turns ordinary toothpicks into exciting projectiles. Perfect for target practice or just to impress your friends, it's a playful addition to your gadget collection. Ready, aim, and launch into fun! Get yours today! | https://www.budk.com/Budk-Gifts?sourcecode=BKGFCA24 | 1713981265 | 1.517553146784E+14 | BUDK Gifts | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439797040_984410896380288_2616479791961781776_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2cHYzZv4XYUQ7kNvgFHE9Ls&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBdeHYuzv3qD3Sj0JPP7cEmWOqFyUsslwUe18RnIGHGpg&oe=6663E104 | person_profile | 0 | BUDK Gifts | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439893962_1490001235252673_5176909179735014305_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aiikVo7u1msQ7kNvgEQ9DIY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCneBmlM65-aSbwmBE-0oWNdgMu_MJJWUv0xC0DqPQ8qA&oe=6663F7C9 | 0 | 3 | Aim with precision! The toothpick launcher crossbow delivers pinpoint accuracy. Get yours today! | BUDK Gifts | 1319 | https://facebook.com/61551819670022 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1713942000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846696 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446607 | 1735168076 | 890 | 988219549602205 | 1 | 3.3628846242712E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 151755314678403 | 0 | BUDK Gifts | 120207372054750408 | budk.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Experience a new level of fun with the toothpick launcher crossbow! 🏹 | Discover a new way to have fun with the toothpick launcher crossbow! With pinpoint accuracy, this unique gadget turns ordinary toothpicks into exciting projectiles. Perfect for target practice or just to impress your friends, it's a playful addition to your gadget collection. Ready, aim, and launch into fun! Get yours today! | https://www.budk.com/Budk-Gifts?sourcecode=BKGFCA24 | 1713981265 | 1.517553146784E+14 | BUDK Gifts | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439797040_984410896380288_2616479791961781776_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2cHYzZv4XYUQ7kNvgFHE9Ls&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBdeHYuzv3qD3Sj0JPP7cEmWOqFyUsslwUe18RnIGHGpg&oe=6663E104 | person_profile | 0 | BUDK Gifts | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439893962_1490001235252673_5176909179735014305_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aiikVo7u1msQ7kNvgEQ9DIY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCneBmlM65-aSbwmBE-0oWNdgMu_MJJWUv0xC0DqPQ8qA&oe=6663F7C9 | 0 | 3 | Aim with precision! The toothpick launcher crossbow delivers pinpoint accuracy. Get yours today! | BUDK Gifts | 1319 | https://facebook.com/61551819670022 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1713942000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846697 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446607 | 1735168076 | 890 | 988219549602205 | 1 | 3.3628846242712E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 151755314678403 | 0 | BUDK Gifts | 120207372054750408 | budk.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Experience a new level of fun with the toothpick launcher crossbow! 🏹 | Discover a new way to have fun with the toothpick launcher crossbow! With pinpoint accuracy, this unique gadget turns ordinary toothpicks into exciting projectiles. Perfect for target practice or just to impress your friends, it's a playful addition to your gadget collection. Ready, aim, and launch into fun! Get yours today! | https://www.budk.com/Budk-Gifts?sourcecode=BKGFCA24 | 1713981265 | 1.517553146784E+14 | BUDK Gifts | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439797040_984410896380288_2616479791961781776_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2cHYzZv4XYUQ7kNvgFHE9Ls&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBdeHYuzv3qD3Sj0JPP7cEmWOqFyUsslwUe18RnIGHGpg&oe=6663E104 | person_profile | 0 | BUDK Gifts | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439893962_1490001235252673_5176909179735014305_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aiikVo7u1msQ7kNvgEQ9DIY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCneBmlM65-aSbwmBE-0oWNdgMu_MJJWUv0xC0DqPQ8qA&oe=6663F7C9 | 0 | 3 | Aim with precision! The toothpick launcher crossbow delivers pinpoint accuracy. Get yours today! | BUDK Gifts | 1319 | https://facebook.com/61551819670022 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1713942000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846698 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446607 | 1735168078 | 890 | 988219549602205 | 1 | 3.3628846242712E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 151755314678403 | 0 | BUDK Gifts | 120207372054750408 | budk.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Experience a new level of fun with the toothpick launcher crossbow! 🏹 | Discover a new way to have fun with the toothpick launcher crossbow! With pinpoint accuracy, this unique gadget turns ordinary toothpicks into exciting projectiles. Perfect for target practice or just to impress your friends, it's a playful addition to your gadget collection. Ready, aim, and launch into fun! Get yours today! | https://www.budk.com/Budk-Gifts?sourcecode=BKGFCA24 | 1713981265 | 1.517553146784E+14 | BUDK Gifts | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439797040_984410896380288_2616479791961781776_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2cHYzZv4XYUQ7kNvgFHE9Ls&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBdeHYuzv3qD3Sj0JPP7cEmWOqFyUsslwUe18RnIGHGpg&oe=6663E104 | person_profile | 0 | BUDK Gifts | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439893962_1490001235252673_5176909179735014305_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aiikVo7u1msQ7kNvgEQ9DIY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCneBmlM65-aSbwmBE-0oWNdgMu_MJJWUv0xC0DqPQ8qA&oe=6663F7C9 | 0 | 3 | Aim with precision! The toothpick launcher crossbow delivers pinpoint accuracy. Get yours today! | BUDK Gifts | 1319 | https://facebook.com/61551819670022 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1713942000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846699 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446607 | 1735168078 | 890 | 988219549602205 | 1 | 3.3628846242712E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 151755314678403 | 0 | BUDK Gifts | 120207372054750408 | budk.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Experience a new level of fun with the toothpick launcher crossbow! 🏹 | Discover a new way to have fun with the toothpick launcher crossbow! With pinpoint accuracy, this unique gadget turns ordinary toothpicks into exciting projectiles. Perfect for target practice or just to impress your friends, it's a playful addition to your gadget collection. Ready, aim, and launch into fun! Get yours today! | https://www.budk.com/Budk-Gifts?sourcecode=BKGFCA24 | 1713981265 | 1.517553146784E+14 | BUDK Gifts | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439797040_984410896380288_2616479791961781776_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2cHYzZv4XYUQ7kNvgFHE9Ls&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBdeHYuzv3qD3Sj0JPP7cEmWOqFyUsslwUe18RnIGHGpg&oe=6663E104 | person_profile | 0 | BUDK Gifts | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439893962_1490001235252673_5176909179735014305_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aiikVo7u1msQ7kNvgEQ9DIY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCneBmlM65-aSbwmBE-0oWNdgMu_MJJWUv0xC0DqPQ8qA&oe=6663F7C9 | 0 | 3 | Aim with precision! The toothpick launcher crossbow delivers pinpoint accuracy. Get yours today! | BUDK Gifts | 1319 | https://facebook.com/61551819670022 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1713942000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846700 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446607 | 1735168078 | 890 | 988219549602205 | 1 | 3.3628846242712E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 151755314678403 | 0 | BUDK Gifts | 120207372054750408 | budk.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Experience a new level of fun with the toothpick launcher crossbow! 🏹 | Discover a new way to have fun with the toothpick launcher crossbow! With pinpoint accuracy, this unique gadget turns ordinary toothpicks into exciting projectiles. Perfect for target practice or just to impress your friends, it's a playful addition to your gadget collection. Ready, aim, and launch into fun! Get yours today! | https://www.budk.com/Budk-Gifts?sourcecode=BKGFCA24 | 1713981265 | 1.517553146784E+14 | BUDK Gifts | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439797040_984410896380288_2616479791961781776_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2cHYzZv4XYUQ7kNvgFHE9Ls&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBdeHYuzv3qD3Sj0JPP7cEmWOqFyUsslwUe18RnIGHGpg&oe=6663E104 | person_profile | 0 | BUDK Gifts | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439893962_1490001235252673_5176909179735014305_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aiikVo7u1msQ7kNvgEQ9DIY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCneBmlM65-aSbwmBE-0oWNdgMu_MJJWUv0xC0DqPQ8qA&oe=6663F7C9 | 0 | 3 | Aim with precision! The toothpick launcher crossbow delivers pinpoint accuracy. Get yours today! | BUDK Gifts | 1319 | https://facebook.com/61551819670022 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1713942000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846701 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446607 | 1735168079 | 890 | 1082508946194366 | 1 | 4.1910292107656E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100365976129594 | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | 120209651167570763 | play.google.com | Play game | NONE | video | A viral mini-game! | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.global.pnck | 1713841481 | 1.0036597612959E+14 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438087504_2565467886956725_1622516903822409913_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fcu0JOLnY9gQ7kNvgEaHPPa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAefQ8LEWHvtQS7MPq-V_lPu0itr3XMgjkeTO82qq8W6g&oe=6663EB57 | person_profile | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437590069_991516082501403_3961662915910002331_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wjAupIJN3ncQ7kNvgGX6mvj&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAzB3NoxnE2l13p9xaszOb1nIj1EKHidBCT1UzWH4UvgA&oe=6663E9A7 | 0 | 3 | Can you maximize your strengths?💪 | Puzzles & Chaos | 13312 | https://facebook.com/PuzzlesAndChaos | 0 | PLAY_GAME | 1713769200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846705 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446607 | 1735168079 | 890 | 448176224365612 | 1 | 1.3898008217129E+15 | 1713855600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 106753190881844 | 0 | Bargain Blitz Today | 120209280325700032 | v1.fastitemnew.space | Get offer | NONE | video | Claim Yours Now! | https://v1.fastitemnew.space/campaign/a8052f5f-841f-4fda-bc68-7df81e8d263f?ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&campaign_id={{campaign.id}}&campaign_name={{campaign.name}}&placement={{placement}}&site_source_name={{site_source_name}}&gender={gender}& | 1713712117 | 1.0675319088184E+14 | Bargain Blitz Today | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438840524_313196235202966_5958455823627591191_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=21hEm1JIhAYQ7kNvgEGJo9P&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDR9wbvD45LK2p3zbeLCscQx1q7_kkvSBnrHQOTBBRPoA&oe=6663F3EB | person_profile | 0 | Bargain Blitz Today | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437947195_3727147247531966_7673563431199616150_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wOS2_p22hD0Q7kNvgGQMY76&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCmisgz3P03HSarQstLs4t3K22piUS7BLFlo2tB5LtvXg&oe=6663E74A | 0 | 3 | Due to a lawsuit we are enforced to give away 5000 units to our loyal funs, you only need to pay for the shipping. Get yours today before they ran out. | Bargain Blitz Today | 1704 | https://facebook.com/100064112258637 | 0 | GET_OFFER_VIEW | 1713682800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846706 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446607 | 1735168079 | 890 | 394261433480953 | 1 | 1.184830962688E+15 | 1713769200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 226177680578601 | 0 | Adoread | 120207811548740265 | client.adoread.com | Learn more | NONE | image | 🔥🔥🔥 Read More👉 | Hottest novel👉👉👉 | https://client.adoread.com/book/loading/page/adoread/19161308412?utm_campaign={{campaign.id}}&utm_content={{campaign.name}} | 1713710193 | 2.261776805786E+14 | Adoread | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438651864_7530847457032564_6605369090009264704_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MLKDpGkHP7YQ7kNvgGVQ2H1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCS5u_YpV4jhrBrasRzMnqyUbC5velXEXMtB_jRLelDgA&oe=66640EF0 | person_profile | 0 | Adoread | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438700786_815628357283055_6083367991029488978_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HzWHFOXmh7UQ7kNvgEsUl6K&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCIdAWIWeADmywo6v9prn9qtupt6F2UtH2WuvSEkcapXQ&oe=6663DF00 | 0 | 3 | "Wesley, are you trying to harm me? You useless piece of trash, can't even make a decent cup of coffee, can you?"<br /> Madison Blair lifted her coffee cup and splashed it directly onto Wesley Harrington's face.<br /> "What are you looking at, you spineless waste? Your name sounds so lofty? I might as well call you a waste."<br /> Glancing at the grotesque expression of his wife's mother, Wesley pulled out his phone to check the time.<br /> Exactly twelve o'clock. It had been five full years since he married Taylor Reed.<br /> The appointed time had come.<br /> He had fulfilled his promise, safeguarding the Reed family for five years, transforming them from a family living off fishing to one perceived as affluent by the common folk.<br /> Wiping the coffee off his face, he turned and walked away.<br /> "Where do you think you're going? Go fetch some more coffee," Madison shouted.<br /> "Madison, didn't you say this waste is obedient at home, doing whatever he's told? I don't think he's taking it lying down."<br /> Madison grew angrier. "Wesley, you stop right there. My family has fed and housed you. If you dare disobey, I'll have you thrown out!"<br /> Ignoring her, Wesley continued downstairs.<br /> "When Taylor comes back, I'll immediately have you two divorced. Do you hear me? Stay right there," Madison threatened, "I'll let you know your place today."<br /> Grabbing a golf club, Madison swiftly charged towards Wesley.<br /> Seeing Wesley heading downstairs, she swung the club viciously at his back.<br /> Without turning back, Wesley gently sidestepped.<br /> Losing her balance, Madison tumbled forward, rolling down the stairs with a series of thumps.<br /> "Ouch... it hurts, it hurts so much!"<br /> As Madison reached the ground floor, she wailed in pain and her sister immediately rushed to her.<br /> "Wesley, what have you done? How dare you hit my sister!" Madison's sister hurried down, checking on Madison's condition.<br /> Wesley remained silent, observing the scene.<br /> "Quick, call Taylor. Tell her to come back. Today, she must divorce this waste." Madison glared at Wesley. "How dare you hit me? Not only will I let Taylor divorce you, but I'll make sure you leave in disgrace."<br /> "Mum, what's wrong?" At that moment, a gent and a lady walked in.<br /> The lady was Taylor, Madison's daughter.<br /> She ran towards Madison.<br /> As Madison pointed at Wesley, tears streamed down her face. "Taylor, he hit me, he hit me! When you're not home, he changes his attitude, scolding and hitting me in the slightest displeasure. He even pushed me down the stairs just now. Alexis can testify."<br /> Madison's sister, Alexis Blair, chimed in. "Yes, Wesley, this trash not only hit your mother but also threatened to hit me too. We cannot tolerate such trash."<br /> "Taylor, I have been telling you to divorce him for years. You've been supporting him, treating him like a Lord at home, but he's an ungrateful wolf in sheep's clothing."<br /> Helping Madison up, Taylor noticed the scrapes on Madison's arms and legs, her expression turning cold.<br /> "Wesley, why did you hit my mother? You better give me an explanation."<br /> Wesley looked at Taylor, his wife.<br /> Five years had passed, and she had never shown him kindness.<br /> Taylor dressed impeccably, a paragon of a successful lady, with a face that could be deemed angelic, yet whether her heart was as angelic remained a mystery.<br /> Her figure, too, left countless men yearning.<br /> For five years, Wesley had thought he might develop feelings for this lady, but in reality, it never happened.<br /> "There are surveillance cameras in the house," Wesley stated calmly before descending the stairs into the hallway.<br /> Despite residing in a three-story villa, Wesley's living quarters were confined to the stairwell.<br /> He harbored no resentment towards this arrangement. It was merely a promise. It was just that Taylor failed to appreciate him.<br /> This home held little value that he wished to cling onto.<br /> Retrieving a wooden box from beneath his pillow, Wesley extracted two documents. Casting a fleeting glance at the modest abode he had called home for five years, Wesley smiled faintly.<br /> He thought, "Finally... I'm free."<br /> Pushing the door ajar, Wesley was met by Taylor's piercing gaze. "I've reviewed the surveillance footage. Yes, my mother intended to strike you, but even if she did, what difference would it make?"<br /> "She's a lady. How much could her blows hurt you? Why did you dodge?"<br /> "If you hadn't dodged, my mother wouldn't have tumbled down." Wesley stared at Taylor, unable to comprehend her thought process.<br /> He had no interest in engaging in these arguments. Handing over the two documents to Taylor, he remarked, "The divorce agreement. I've already signed it. Take a look. I'm leaving with nothing."<br /> "With your current influence, there's no need for you to visit the city hall. Someone will handle it for you, right?"<br /> Madison was taken aback. She swiftly snatched the divorce agreement, flipping through it hastily.<br /> The contents were indeed straightforward. Both parties willingly divorced, with Wesley relinquishing all claims and having already signed.<br /> In an instant, Madison's pain seemed to dissipate. "Taylor, sign it quickly. Sign it."<br /> Taylor was still in a daze.<br /> She pondered.<br /> "A divorce agreement? Wesley has already prepared a divorce agreement. On what grounds?"<br /> "What gives him the right to initiate a divorce? All these years, he's done nothing at home, lacking any ambition. Always practicing martial arts, what right does he have to seek a divorce?"<br /> "If anyone should initiate it, it should be me. Moreover, now that I'm back to discussing this matter with him. Could it be that word got out, and Wesley, for the sake of his pride, rushed to prepare a divorce agreement first?"<br /> "It must be so, but... No!"<br /> "Wanting to leave with nothing, is he retreating to advance? As the chairman of the Reed Group, how could I be served with a divorce?"<br /> "Hey Wesley, I never expected this from you. Have I not treated you well enough? You seek a divorce, attempting to turn your retreat into advance, aiming to embarrass me?"<br /> Taylor glared at Wesley. "I'm telling you, it's impossible."<br /> Snatching the divorce agreement, she tore it to shreds.<br /> "Taylor, what are you doing? Such a great opportunity. Why not just sign it and let him leave?" Madison grew anxious.<br /> "Mom, I do intend to divorce this trash, but the decision must come from me. I returned specifically to address this matter."<br /> With that, Taylor produced two documents. "Wesley, remember that it's me who's divorcing you. It's me who no longer wants you. Initially, out of marital obligation, I had considered offering you some compensation. Now, you don't even need to think about it. Sign the divorce agreement and leave my home."<br /> Wesley offered a faint smile as he accepted the divorce agreement.<br /> "What are you laughing at?" Taylor demanded angrily.<br /> Wesley's smile seemed to mock her, fueling her rage.<br /> Ignoring her entirely, Wesley signed the document and handed it over.<br /> "What are you laughing at? Answer me! Who do you think you are?" Taylor roared once more.<br /> Wesley glanced at her before striding towards the exit.<br /> "Stop!" The gent who had accompanied Taylor stepped forward, blocking Wesley's path. "Taylor asked you a question, and... Your previous attitude displeased me. Apologize to Taylor, or I'll have you leave in disgrace!"<br /> Chapter 2 The Unspoken Truth<br /> <br /> "Yes, let him leave in disgrace. He thought he could just hit me and walk away so easily," Madison joined in the commotion, also noticing the gent blocking Wesley's path.<br /> Madison had a keen interest in luxury goods, having frequented various high-end establishments over the years as the Reed family's living conditions improved. The gent was wearing an expensive watch and dressed head to toe in high-end luxury brands.<br /> Seeing Madison's gaze, the gent spoke. "Rest assured, today Wesley must pay the price."<br /> The gent introduced himself, looking at Wesley, "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Henry Clark, the eldest son of the Clark family and the general manager of the Clark Group in the North District."<br /> "From now on, I will accompany Taylor on her journey of life, and I will not allow anyone to bully her."<br /> "My identity carries weight. You should understand that. Now, apologize to Taylor. Apologize! Did you hear me? Apologize!"<br /> Madison's eyes lit up. She hadn't expected the gent before her to hold such a high status. She continued to shout, "Did you hear that? Taylor will be with Mr. Clark from now on. Apologize now."<br /> Wesley glanced at Henry, then at Taylor. He thought, "Have they been together all along?" Wesley had wanted to ask but decided against it because there was no need. He simply gave them a glance and continued walking towards the exit.<br /> "Are you ignoring me?" Henry's face turned cold as he reached out to grab Wesley. Henry's hand froze mid-air as he received a solid hit.<br /> "Until I sign the divorce papers, Taylor and I are still wife and husband. I don't care to investigate whether you two had any intimate relationship during that time, but don't provoke me, or I won't hesitate to make you regret it." Wesley's gaze was icy, and as Henry met his eyes, he felt a twinge of fear and swallowed his words.<br /> Taylor was also stunned. She knew exactly what Wesley had been like over the past five years. There were many surveillance cameras in the house, and she would often check them.<br /> Even when Taylor wasn't home, despite how her family treated Wesley, he always obeyed without complaint, especially towards her. He had never raised his voice, no matter how they treated him.<br /> Today, not only did Wesley dodge when her mother struck, but he also initiated the divorce and now even struck Henry. <br /> Taylor was at a loss for words, thinking, "How could this cowardly gent dare? On what grounds does he dare?"<br /> This change was difficult for Taylor to accept as if she didn't truly understand this guy. The gent who used to be obedient to her, completely submissive, now revealed this side of himself. She watched Wesley walk away in a daze, feeling a strange discomfort in her heart.<br /> "Isn't he leaving with nothing?" Alexis pointed at the wooden box Wesley was holding. "What is he taking with him?"<br /> Madison also realized. Over the past five years, Wesley had always treasured this wooden box, carrying it with him wherever he went. She thought there must be something valuable inside.<br /> Realizing this, Madison hurriedly followed. "Wesley, stop right there, leave the wooden box."<br /> Wesley paused, glanced at Madison, and said, "This is my personal belonging."<br /> "Nonsense, what personal belonging could you possibly have after marrying into the Reed family? Everything you've eaten, worn, and lived in over the years has been provided by the Reed family. Put it down."<br /> As she spoke, Madison reached out to grab the wooden box.<br /> "Ah..." A scream rang out as Madison quickly retracted her hand, a gash appearing on her palm, a crimson liquid dripping.<br /> The wooden box was now stained with the same crimson liquid, trembling lightly in Wesley's hand.<br /> "It's not the right time yet, the day you thirst for this crimson liquid will come," Wesley murmured softly, patting the box before turning to continue his stride towards the exit.<br /> "Monster! A monster!" Madison screamed, causing Taylor and the others to rush out. Seeing the wound in Madison's hand, Taylor was filled with rage.<br /> "Wesley, aren't you going to say something?" Wesley halted once more, contemplating before meeting Taylor's gaze.<br /> "Just stay out of my way from now on. Consider this a warning to you."<br /> "Taylor, that wooden box of his has a mechanism. It must hold something valuable! We can't let him take it with him," Madison, enduring the pain, reminded them.<br /> "Mom, your injury is important. We'll deal with him later. Let me take you to the hospital first." Taylor comforted Madison before calling out to the retreating Wesley.<br /> "Our marriage is over! Yet, you dared to hurt my mother! This won't be the end of it! I will make you regret it!" Ignoring her, Wesley continued walking out.<br /> "Rest assured, I promise he won't see the light of day tomorrow." Henry stepped forward to console. "Let's focus on getting your wound treated first."<br /> "I want him to regret ever existing in this world, to apologize to me in repentance," Madison roared.<br /> "Mom, trust me, I will make him do just that." Taylor looked at Madison with a mix of pity and determination. "Let's go to the hospital first."<br /> In the villa area, Wesley halted, his voice cold. "Get out."<br /> An elderly gent leaped down from a tree, appearing to be in his seventies, yet landing silently from a height of around ten feet.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, your father wants you to come home and take charge."<br /> "He stopped being my father five years ago. He's my enemy."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you misunderstood your father. He had his reasons back then. I swear in my life, once you know the truth, you will forgive him."<br /> "Huh!" Wesley smirked coldly, saying, "I nearly passed away back then. Is that also a misunderstanding?"<br /> The old gent pleaded, "Mr. Harrington, this situation is truly not as you perceive it."<br /> Wesley didn't engage further with the old guy. The events of that year were etched in his memory forever. He was the one who had been abandoned. If not for that incident, why would he have stayed with the Reed family for five years?<br /> Watching Wesley walk away, the old gent had tears silently streaming down his face. "Mr. Harrington, I truly... I truly can't bring myself to speak the truth, but you have misunderstood your father. He also bears burdens and endures pains beyond what an ordinary person can handle."<br /> As Wesley's figure disappeared, the old gent stood up, hesitated for a moment, then dialed a number on his phone.<br /> "Mr. Harrington is now divorced. I've given you the news firsthand. If your daughter is truly together with Mr. Harrington, you must fulfill the promise and let her persuade Mr. Harrington to come home."<br /> After hanging up, a middle-aged gent in a luxurious estate jumped up excitedly. Calming himself, he immediately made another call. "My dear, you're at Yeadeo, right?<br /> "Go find Wesley now. Don't mention the engagement for now. Use every means to get close to him, make him fall in love with you."<br /> "Dad, I don't have time."<br /> "No matter what you are busy with, you must go find Wesley now. No matter what reason you approach him, you must leave a good impression the first time."<br /> "Dad, I'm in trouble right now. If I don't handle it well, I might be good as gone. I have to deal with it immediately. I'm hanging up."<br /> Chapter 3 You're Nothing<br /> The middle-aged gent's voice lowered significantly. "Is there a big incident happening? You didn't tell me? What happened?"<br /> "Quinn Kingsley from Yeadeo, Mr. Kingsley, used our product and now has one foot on the grave. If something really happens to him..."<br /> "You mean Quinn, the uncontested leader of Yeadeo?"<br /> "Yes."<br /> "In that case, you should go find Wesley. Trust me, in this world, there is no problem that Wesley can't solve. As long as he's willing to help, you'll be fine. Listen to me, go find Wesley immediately."<br /> The lady fell silent for a moment before saying, "Okay."<br /> At Yeadeo Harbor, a gent with a large flaxen chain and a watch, sporting a crew cut, hurriedly disembarked, accompanied by a dozen gentlemen.<br /> "Mr. Reed, wherever that trash is, we will find him and tear him apart."<br /> "Yes, that guy dared to harm your mother. We'll make sure he pays for it."<br /> Frank Reed's face turned cold. "Wesley, you coward, thinking you can overturn the world? How dare you touch my mom? Just wait until I find you, you're finished."<br /> "We've found him. Wesley got into a taxi, and our boys followed him."<br /> "Let's go!" Frank waved his hand, leading dozens of men who boarded the car with harpoons, steel pipes, and other weapons.<br /> Inside the taxi, Wesley gazed at the scenery outside, feeling a strange sense of tranquility.<br /> He thought to himself, "I never imagined that while I was secretly paving the way for the Reed family, Taylor, after progressing so rapidly, would start looking down on me more and more."<br /> "Those ladies who know my true identity, which one of them isn't trying to throw themselves at me? Ladies like that don't interest me."<br /> "Being an ordinary gent is truly difficult," Wesley murmured, smiling faintly and deciding not to dwell on these matters anymore. He had important things to attend to and no time to waste on personal affairs.<br /> "Young lad, are you going to Feidgeuo Manor for a job interview?" The driver, curious about Wesley's destination, inquired.<br /> Feidgeuo Manor was Yeadeo's most mysterious private area. Originally a villa area, it was bought at a huge cost five years ago and completely renovated. It was said to have cost a trillion dollars. The former villa area was now Feidgeuo Manor.<br /> "That's my home," Wesley replied nonchalantly.<br /> The driver was taken aback by this revelation, silently cursing Wesley for bragging. After a couple of minutes, the driver regained his composure. "It seems like you and I both prefer to keep a low profile. My car usually gathers dust at home, so I occasionally drive a taxi to experience life."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "My car has been driven by my assistant for the past few years, so it's not gathering dust."<br /> "Haha..." The driver laughed. "We should get together sometime and see whose car is more impressive."<br /> "Sure, whenever we have the time."<br /> As they chatted, the vehicle soon arrived near Feidgeuo Manor, where the massive head of the Feidgeuo Peak protruded, creating a unique landscape in Yeadeo.<br /> The driver asked with a smile, "Since you're the owner here, it's fine if I drive in, right?"<br /> "Of course," Wesley replied.<br /> As soon as Wesley spoke, several cars caught up from behind.<br /> The cars surrounded the one Wesley was in, with the front vehicles braking to force the car to a stop.<br /> When numerous people descended from cars wielding harpoons and steel pipes, the driver's face paled.<br /> Frank and his group got out of the cars, instantly closing in, and without hesitation, started attacking, the steel pipes and harpoons thudding against the car.<br /> Frank's henchman yanked open the door of Wesley's car, poised to stab Wesley with a harpoon, but Wesley swiftly exited the vehicle.<br /> With a firm step on the ground, he launched a swift hit.<br /> A muffled sound echoed as the henchman was hit away.<br /> "What are you looking at?" Frank noticed his henchmen were all staring at him. "All of you, attack together and take him down!"<br /> As he commanded, the henchmen Frank brought with him surged forward.<br /> The taxi driver, trembling, took out his phone to call the police, but Frank glared at him. "I am Frank Reed from Yeadeo Harbor. If you dare, go ahead and make that call."<br /> Frank, leveraging his sister Taylor's status, had been causing trouble in Yeadeo Harbor, and no one dared to provoke him.<br /> Upon hearing Frank's name, the driver hastily put away his phone. "Mr. Reed, I'll just check the time, you guys continue."<br /> "Huh!" Frank snorted coldly, casting his gaze towards the surrounded Wesley.<br /> The sounds of thuds continued to ring out incessantly. Because Wesley was completely surrounded, Frank was unable to see the situation inside clearly, but he could imagine it. After all, in Frank's mind, the henchmen under his command were not to be trifled with.<br /> "Hit him hard for me!"<br /> Another muffled sound and a figure flew out. At that moment, Frank finally saw the situation clearly, and his face turned pale.<br /> Frank knew that Wesley liked to practice martial arts, but he had never expected Wesley to be this skilled. It wasn't Wesley who had been beaten, but his own men by Wesley alone.<br /> Frantically, Frank turned and ran to retrieve a crossbow from the car.<br /> "Clear the way." Frank bellowed, aiming the crossbow at Wesley.<br /> "You scumbag, you think you can fight? Move one more time, and I'll end your life! Surrender!"<br /> Wesley, holding a wooden box, stared at Frank. Ignoring the crossbow in his hand, Wesley said, "Tell your henchmen to back off, or you'll all see the light from above!"<br /> "You're really good at pretending to be tough." Frank took two steps forward. "See the light? Move a muscle and see if I can end your life or not! If you don't have the guts, apologize now!"<br /> Wesley turned his head and looked at the approaching cars, with two expensive ones in the lead, two more in the rear, and another one in the middle.<br /> "Keep acting tough, and I'll put a hole in your head." Frank spoke while glancing at the five cars. "What, looking for help?"<br /> "Let me tell you, those who ride in these cars are not the kind of weaklings like you who rely on connections. With me here, in Yeadeo's social hierarchy, even those who ride in such cars wouldn't dare meddle in this matter. And let me make it clear, without my sister, you're nothing."<br /> Chapter 4 Is He Worthy?<br /> As Frank's words faded, the five cars came to a halt.<br /> A bodyguard opened the door of the one in the middle, revealing a dazzling pair of shining shoes catching everyone's eye.<br /> The shining shoe encased a beautiful foot. Above, the skirt's hem was adorned with lace.<br /> Then, like a fairy stepping out of a painting, she appeared before everyone's eyes.<br /> The lady was beautiful!<br /> Frank was mesmerized. Ever since the Reed family rose to prominence, he had been surrounded by ladies, but compared to the elegant lady before him, they were worlds apart.<br /> It wasn't just a difference in appearance but an incomparable gap in demeanor.<br /> The lady descending from the Maybach seemed like a celestial being untouched by mortal affairs.<br /> The embodiment of a fairy in the mundane world.<br /> She simply stood there after getting out of the car, perfectly embodying what it meant to be graceful and elegant.<br /> The lady glanced at Wesley, then at Frank.<br /> Frank grinned, saying, "May I have the honor of knowing the name of this esteemed lady? I am Frank..."<br /> The lady spoke calmly. "Disrespect Mr. Harrington, and you're done for."<br /> Her bodyguards, unfazed by Frank's crossbow, swiftly overwhelmed him, sending him crashing to the ground.<br /> The henchmen who had come with Frank, previously defeated by Wesley, now scrambled to their feet and fled in all directions.<br /> Who would dare provoke someone who could afford such a car?<br /> "My sister is Taylor Reed, the chairperson of Reed Group," Frank shouted, clutching his head.<br /> Ignoring him, one of the bodyguards dragged him to the roadside grass while another used a belt to tighten around Frank's neck, exerting pressure.<br /> "Enough, a lesson is all that's needed." Wesley spoke calmly, and only when the lady gestured did the bodyguards release Frank.<br /> Frank lay there, already unconscious.<br /> Wesley turned to the lady. "Who are you?"<br /> "I am Mia Roberts, the general manager of Vinver Business Alliance's Yeadeo branch." She looked at Wesley and continued, "Mr. Harrington, my father mentioned that you have miraculous healing skills and earnestly requested your assistance. A generous reward awaits."<br /> Wesley furrowed his brow slightly, thinking, "There are indeed people who recognize my abilities and status, yet I've rarely intervened in the past five years. Today, shortly after I divorced Taylor, she is here. Whose arrangement is this?"<br /> "Mr. Harrington, my father also mentioned that you are benevolent and has raised the banner of compassion among healers, serving as a role model and benchmark for all in the medical field."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "You have a way with words. Tell me the specifics."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, please get in the car first. I will explain in detail on the way."<br /> The phrase "compassionate healer" held significant weight for Wesley, who had saved countless lives from the brink of death.<br /> Without further ado, he got into the car.<br /> Inside, after Mia brewed coffee for Wesley, she began. "Vinver Business Alliance has a wide range of business operations, and I mainly oversee the health supplement sector, which has seen some success in recent years.<br /> "Recently, Quinn Kingsley started using our medicines, and now there's an accident."<br /> As she spoke, Mia kept her gaze fixed on Wesley.<br /> Quinn, the undisputed leader of Yeadeo, was a figure of immense influence.<br /> Upon hearing this name, Wesley showed no particular reaction. "If the city's leader faces issues with your products, it is indeed a concern. Let's go and see."<br /> With just a sentence, Wesley leaned back in his seat, closing his eyes to rest.<br /> Mia was secretly alarmed, thinking, "He knows who Quinn is, yet he seems indifferent. Who is this Wesley, really? No wonder Dad has instructed me to find a way to win his favor." Mia's inner resistance toward Wesley quietly shifted.<br /> Wesley had piqued her curiosity.<br /> As the vehicle was moving, Wesley's phone rang.<br /> Wesley opened his eyes and took out his phone to see Taylor calling.<br /> Pressing the answer button, he asked, "What's the matter?"<br /> On the other end of the line, Taylor, driving towards Feidgeuo Manor, had a grim expression.<br /> She thought, "Has Wesley ever spoken to me in such a cold tone before? Is he really this heartless right after our divorce?"<br /> Already furious, she snapped. "Wesley, do you even consider yourself a human being?<br /> "Today, not only did you lay hands on my mother, but you also had someone attack my brother. Do you not remember our past at all?"<br /> Wesley calmly replied, "Do we have a past to remember?"<br /> "You truly are a heartless scumbag, just as my mother said. You are an ungrateful and vicious person I raised for five years. Even a pet would wag its tail at me!"<br /> Taylor wanted to continue her tirade, but the phone line had already turned busy.<br /> This only fueled her anger further.<br /> Just now, she had received a call from Frank's underlings, informing her that Wesley had sent people to attack Frank and even intended to end him.<br /> Taylor wanted to demand answers, but...<br /> As Taylor was clutching her fists, her gaze turned icy.<br /> After a moment, she picked up her phone again. "Wesley, you are so narrow-minded. You have no ambition. Any lady would steer clear of you."<br /> "Just because I dumped you, you are doing this on purpose to make me feel sick. Pretending to be aloof and seeking revenge? Do you even deserve it?"<br /> "In Yeadeo, squashing you would be as easy as squashing an ant. You're asking for it! If anything happens to my brother, I will make you wish you were ending!"<br /> Her furious voice message echoed in the car.<br /> Wesley chuckled and put away his phone.<br /> Beside him, Mia seemed contemplative. Before coming, she had already ordered a swift investigation into Wesley.<br /> She was curious, thinking, "How could someone valued by my father could be the one 'marrying into' the Reed family."<br /> Being tactful, Mia chose not to ask and pretended not to have heard.<br /> After about forty minutes, they arrived at the Kingsley Manor.<br /> The Kingsley family members, upon seeing Mia alight from the car, all wore grim expressions.<br /> Mia greeted them with a smile, "Everyone, this is Wesley Harrington, Mr. Harrington, the miraculous healer I specially invited to treat Mr. Kingsley."<br /> "Him? The gent who married into the Reed family?"<br /> "A miraculous healer? Is he even worthy? Are healers so worthless now?"<br /> "A useless gent who mooches off of the Reed family? How dare he call himself a miraculous healer? Truly a joke among all jokes."<br /> Chapter 5 Compassionate Healer<br /> Amanda Kingsley, Quinn's granddaughter, stared coldly at Wesley and Mia.<br /> This lady, dressed in a smart suit, also held significant fame in Yeadeo, overseeing the region's business activities, including investment attraction and various local business negotiations.<br /> Amanda had a favorable view of Taylor, who had risen swiftly in recent times, and they had interacted frequently.<br /> She was aware of Wesley's existence and had advised Taylor to part ways with him early on.<br /> But Amanda never imagined that Mia would bring someone like Wesley, a complete waste, and claim he was a miraculous healer.<br /> Glaring at Mia, she said, "Mia, once my grandfather is well, it's best for your Roberts family to leave Yeadeo."<br /> "As for you..." She glanced at Wesley. "I will advise Taylor to divorce you. You have deceived Taylor's feelings and now shamelessly made your way into my family. You are a despicable creature."<br /> After reprimanding Mia and Wesley, she turned to an elderly gent beside her, and her tone and attitude completely changed. "Mr. Phillips, sorry to trouble you. My grandfather is inside, please."<br /> Mia looked at the elderly gent, who was already in his twilight years, feeling deeply shocked.<br /> Scott Phillips, the 38th generation heir of the Healing Clinic, was now ninety-two years old.<br /> Renowned as a miraculous healer, he was a respected figure in the medical community of Yeadeo and even nationally.<br /> He no longer conducted consultations personally due to his old age. Mia had visited him specifically to pay her respects once she had arrived in Yeadeo but had not met Scott.<br /> She never expected Scott to appear in person. It was understandable, as Quinn held a prominent position in the city. Despite the profound influence of the Phillips family, they still had to show respect to Quinn.<br /> Mia looked at Wesley, feeling conflicted and thinking, "Dad has confidently claimed that Wesley has extraordinary abilities, but does he really?"<br /> She harbored doubts, but out of propriety, Mia spoke. "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the trouble."<br /> Wesley smiled, "It's fine. As long as the person can be healed."<br /> His open-mindedness impressed Mia.<br /> After about half an hour, Amanda emerged from the room. All eyes instantly turned towards her.<br /> It was evident that Amanda had wailed out, with traces of tears still visible.<br /> "Amanda, how is it?" A middle-aged gent anxiously asked her.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family who had rushed back also focused their attention on her.<br /> "Mr. Phillips said that there's little hope of recovery. He could only use acupuncture to wake grandfather for half an hour. When grandfather wakes up, let's all go in and see if he has any final instructions."<br /> Everyone was shocked.<br /> "How could this be?"<br /> "Is Mr. Phillips also helpless?"<br /> The members of the Kingsley family found it hard to accept this reality, especially since Quinn had always treated his juniors well.<br /> The thought of Quinn departing saddened some, and tears silently fell.<br /> Publicly, Quinn's status was the foundation of the Kingsley family's prominence in Yeadeo.<br /> If Quinn were to pass away, the Kingsley family would undoubtedly decline.<br /> The atmosphere within the Kingsley family was somber.<br /> Amanda looked at her family members, opened her mouth, but said nothing, silently turning back into the room.<br /> "Stop crying," A middle-aged gent said sternly, "Dad wouldn't want to see you all in tears. If he's really leaving, we mustn't let him worry about us. Pull yourselves together."<br /> After these words, the middle-aged gent also entered the room.<br /> The younger members of the Kingsley family wiped their tears vigorously, trying to force smiles, but in truth, they looked better at crying than pretending to be happy.<br /> Mia's spirit plummeted as she realized the gravity of the situation. Even if an ordinary person passed away from consuming health supplements, it spelled big trouble for those who sold them. And when the deceased happened to be Quinn, the stakes were even higher.<br /> She understood that it would be difficult for this branch to stay in Yeadeo, and even the headquarters might face repercussions.<br /> "Let's go in and have a look." Wesley glanced at Mia. "There might still be a chance."<br /> "Ah..." Mia stared at Wesley in surprise. Seeing him already heading towards the room, she quickly followed suit.<br /> Inside the room, the members of the Kingsley family stood around the mattress, maintaining a certain distance.<br /> Scott lit the alcohol lamp and took out the needles, his expression solemn.<br /> He looked at the members of the Kingsley family. "Think about what you want to say to Mr. Kingsley later. Once you're ready, let me know, and then I'll proceed with the acupuncture."<br /> As he said this, tears welled up in many eyes.<br /> "If you don't mind, let me take a look. I have a way." Wesley spoke up, drawing everyone's attention.<br /> Amanda's face darkened. "Who let you in? Get out!"<br /> "Mia, have you lost your mind? Tricked by this trash and actually brought him here as a miracle healer. Get out with him! I'll settle the score with you in a couple of days."<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, at a loss for words.<br /> "Even Mr. Phillips is unable to reverse the situation. What use are you? Get out." Another younger member of the Kingsley family angrily rebuked.<br /> The middle-aged gent added, "We're in no mood right now. You better leave immediately."<br /> "I understand your narrow-mindedness," Wesley continued, "But as a healer, once I see a patient, I cannot stand by and watch him draw his last breath."<br /> "Wesley, you're quite the charlatan. Do you really want to be gone right now?" Amanda's voice was filled with anger.<br /> "Amanda, let me say a few words," Scott interjected, and Amanda fell silent.<br /> Looking at Wesley, Scott began. "Young lad, at my age, I've seen a lot and have a broad perspective. Today, however, I find it hard to remain indifferent. I practiced medicine from the age of sixteen until I stopped seeing patients for a total of seventy years."<br /> "I've saved countless patients from various illnesses. I never easily declare a patient's fate, nor do I believe I have the right to do so."<br /> "But from your recent remarks, it seems like you're accusing me of such actions. Young people wanting to make a name for themselves by stepping on the shoulders of their predecessors, I can understand."<br /> "But this kind of behavior displeases me."<br /> "My displeasure, what does it mean to you? Do you understand?"<br /> "Even if you are a healer, your career will be ruined because of this."<br /> Chapter 6 Hand of Hell<br /> In the face of Scott's veiled threats, Wesley simply smiled and brushed them off.<br /> Looking at Scott, he asked, "I've always focused on the issue at hand rather than attacking individuals. I have a few questions for you. If you can't administer the needles, how long do you think Quinn can hold on?"<br /> "Seven days, but he will remain unconscious," Scott replied bluntly.<br /> "Then let me ask you this, is there anyone in the world with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "Outrageous," Amanda coldly interjected, "Mr. Phillips is unparalleled in his medical expertise."<br /> Scott glanced at Amanda. "Amanda, let me handle this question."<br /> Continuing to address Wesley, he said, "I don't underestimate myself, nor do I overestimate. There are countless talented individuals in the world, like stars in the sky. I may not dare claim to be the best in medical skills, but those who surpass me are few."<br /> "That means there are some," Wesley calmly remarked, causing Scott's expression to shift slightly, "Indeed, there are."<br /> "Then let me ask you this. Do you think within seven days, the Kingsley family won't find someone with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "If they do find someone, do you believe there is an illness that you cannot cure, but this person can?"<br /> Wesley's questions were sharp and resounding.<br /> Scott's face changed once more as he was rendered speechless.<br /> "Even if there is, that person will never be you." Amanda's face turned icy. "Now get out. Don't spout your eloquence here. Your deceitful behavior is repulsive."<br /> "Your understanding of me is merely hearsay, isn't it?" Wesley retorted, his gaze mocking Amanda, "Has your background and education taught you such arrogance and prejudice?"<br /> "Arrogance?" Amanda's face grew colder as she disdainfully looked at Wesley. "Prejudice?<br /> "Did I say something wrong just now? You are nothing but stagnant waste, a parasite living off others. If it weren't for Taylor, you would have starved on the streets long ago."<br /> "Relying on sweet words, deceiving Taylor. She, with her kind heart, can't bear to divorce you, but don't push your luck. If it weren't for Taylor's sake, you would have been sent out long ago."<br /> Scott interrupted Amanda, "Amanda, although I find this lad a bit annoying, what he said does hold some truth. There are indeed individuals with better medical skills than me. Your grandfather can hold on for seven days. Try reaching out to see if someone can come over. I'll help you make connections."<br /> "If it really doesn't work out after seven days, I'll administer the needles to your grandfather. However, at that point, I can only buy you three minutes."<br /> As soon as Scott spoke, the faces of the Kingsley family members grew even more solemn. True healers were rare and not easily summoned.<br /> While the Kingsley family had connections in Yeadeo, their influence waned outside of it.<br /> "Mr. Phillips, please administer the needles. Life has its ups and downs, and we understand that. Just buy my father a bit more time." The middle-aged gent spoke up.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family nodded in agreement.<br /> Amanda looked at Scott. "Mr. Phillips, please."<br /> "In that case, please have everyone unrelated leave. I need silence," Scott calmly stated.<br /> Amanda glared at Wesley, her eyes speaking volumes without a word.<br /> The unrelated individuals were, naturally, Wesley and Mia.<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, intending to leave, but she suddenly hesitated.<br /> Instead of leaving, Wesley moved forward.<br /> "What are you doing?" A young member of the Kingsley family stepped forward with a stern expression, pushing Wesley.<br /> In one swift motion, Wesley executed a clean shoulder throw, toppling the young gent to the ground, his own expression turning cold.<br /> "A bunch of fools! If it weren't for my teacher's teachings about not turning a blind eye to those in need, I wouldn't bother with you ignorant lot," Wesley remarked with disdain.<br /> As Wesley effortlessly took down one individual from the Kingsley family, the others seemed slow to react.<br /> By the time they realized what was happening, Wesley had already picked up the needle next to Scott and casually flicked his wrist.<br /> The needle flew out of his hand, piercing Quinn's temple, followed by a second needle, a third needle, and so on.<br /> "What are you doing? Stop!" Amanda's voice rose in urgency, echoed by the rest of the Kingsley family members who rushed forward to restrain Wesley.<br /> "Stay back, everyone. Wait." Scott suddenly stood up, blocking the others. "Let him try."<br /> Amanda and the others were left dumbfounded, thinking, "What does this mean?"<br /> Despite their confusion, they heeded Scott's words.<br /> After Scott stopped the members of the Kingsley family, he fixed his gaze on Wesley.<br /> Wesley proceeded to use eighteen needles in succession, symbolizing the levels of pain.<br /> Even if someone had descended into the depths of hell, they must be brought back.<br /> The final needle, also piercing a vital point, caused Quinn's body to tremble suddenly, resonating with the previous eighteen needles.<br /> Scott's eyes widened, his body trembling slightly. His reaction left Amanda and the others even more puzzled, but none dared to interrupt.<br /> Moments later, Wesley placed a palm on Quinn's chest, causing all eighteen needles to be shaken off. When all the needles landed on the ground, the part of the skin where the needles had pierced turned dark.<br /> Wesley then dragged Quinn to the edge of the mattress, flipped him over with his head facing downwards, and gave him a firm pat on the back.<br /> Quinn spat out a mouthful of black liquid. When Wesley flipped him back to lie flat, his complexion had regained some color.<br /> "The Hand of Darkness... It's the Hand of Darkness!" Scott exclaimed with excitement, his body quivering, "It's the Hand that descends into the dark world, snatching people from the hands of the Evil!"<br /> "You do have some knowledge, recognizing the Hand of Darkness." Wesley glanced at Scott.<br /> Scott's gaze towards Wesley had undergone a drastic change. He respectfully clasped his hands together.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thirty years ago, I had the honor of attending a teaching conference held by Mr. Vanderbilt. I saw the Hand of Darkness, but my limited aptitude only allowed me to grasp the basics."<br /> "I have been blind and ignorant. I apologize for my earlier offenses. Please forgive me, Mr. Harrington."<br /> The Mr. Vanderbilt Scott referred to was Wesley's teacher, Ulysses Vanderbilt. He generously imparted his skills to others, but the ability to learn depended on one's innate talent.<br /> In this world, few could learn Ulysses' skills.<br /> Scott had been fortunate to receive guidance from Ulysses, which had elevated his medical skills. However, the Hand of Darkness, a miraculous ability, was beyond his comprehension.<br /> Wesley smiled faintly, "Your actions earlier are understandable. I appreciate your words."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you must be an exceptional disciple of Mr. Vanderbilt, possessing unparalleled magnanimity. Impressive," Scott continued.<br /> "Enough with the flattery at your age."<br /> "You are mistaken, Mr. Harrington. Every word I speak is sincere."<br /> Mia, Amanda, and the others stood bewildered by the unfolding situation.<br /> "Mr. Phillips... he... he..." Amanda's words faltered.<br /> Scott turned to the members of the Kingsley family. "Meeting Mr. Harrington was Quinn's luck. His symptoms have been cured by Mr. Harrington. With a few days of rest, he will be fine."<br /> The waste Taylor had previously said was called Mr. Harrington by Scott!<br /> Recalling their previous attitudes, Amanda hurriedly apologized, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> The members of the Kingsley family all apologized in unison, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> Chapter 7 Eight Plates of Noodles<br /> With a faint smile, Wesley remarked, "As family members of a patient, your actions earlier are understandable. There's no need for such formality."<br /> Amanda's perplexity deepened as she thought, "Where is the cowardly waste that Taylor described? This display of magnanimity and breadth is far from it."<br /> Mia, too, felt a shiver of realization, thinking, "No wonder Dad has insisted on my proximity to Wesley.<br /> This guy..."<br /> She gazed at Wesley, her curiosity piqued, a sense of exploration stirring within her.<br /> "Mia has brought you here, Mr. Harrington, to cure my grandfather. The Kingsley family will never forget this act. However, considering that my grandfather's ailment stemmed from the health supplements produced by the Vinver Business Alliance, we will be conducting an investigation into it."<br /> Amanda continued, looking at Wesley, "What do you think... of this approach?"<br /> It was Mia who had invited Wesley, so Amanda had grown wiser, refraining from asking for a direct punishment of the Vinver Business Alliance.<br /> As Mia heard Amanda's words, her heart skipped a beat, realizing trouble was brewing.<br /> "On the way here, Ms. Roberts briefed me on the situation. You conducted experiments on mice, correct?"<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes, the health supplements we received were exclusively provided by the Roberts family. There were no similar cases on the market, so we used mice for testing.<br /> "All the mice that ingested this supplement were gone."<br /> She looked at Mia and added, her voice turned colder. "Before the experiment, I specifically contacted Mia to inquire about the testing methods during the development phase, which involved mice."<br /> "There have been individuals eyeing my grandfather's position, some even wishing for his demise. I never imagined that the Vinver Business Alliance, which I attracted for investment, would become a weapon in someone else's hands."<br /> "Do you have any of the remaining medicine?" Wesley inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes."<br /> "Bring some over."<br /> Immediately, someone fetched the medicine. After it was brought to him, Wesley took out a supplement and swallowed it directly.<br /> This scene left Amanda and the others dumbfounded.<br /> Scott, too, was bewildered. "Mr. Harrington, what are you doing?"<br /> Wesley smiled, "Just proving that this medicine is not toxic."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thank you," Mia thanked sincerely, feeling like sobbing at that moment.<br /> Amanda, with a puzzled expression, looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, are you suggesting that my grandfather's condition wasn't caused by the Vinver Business Alliance's medicine? What about the mice?"<br /> The rest were equally puzzled.<br /> "Yes, but not entirely," Wesley said, leaving everyone even more bewildered.<br /> Mia's emotions were like a rollercoaster ride, from relief to immediate tension.<br /> "This medicine itself is not toxic, but when taken with another substance made from a certain plant, it results in Quinn's condition. The mice would die immediately, while humans could endure a few more days."<br /> Wesley continued to explain, "The plant used in this concoction is originally meant for crafting slow-acting toxins, not for human consumption."<br /> Looking at Amanda, Wesley said, "During this period, whoever had access to your grandfather and the mice will better understand why these events occurred."<br /> The gaze of members of the Kingsley family immediately focused on a lady.<br /> Amanda, somewhat incredulous, looked at her. "Can you offer an explanation?"<br /> The lady was the wife of Amanda's deceased brother. She found it hard to accept, as did the rest of the Kingsley family.<br /> This lady had been named the exemplary lady who served her family well this year, not due to her connection with the Kingsley family but because she genuinely deserved it.<br /> "What do you mean? Amanda, what explanation do you want from me?"<br /> The lady stared at Amanda. "Am I the only one who had access to Grandfather and the mice? You, and you... and you, who didn't have access?"<br /> "You all claim to treat me as family. Since I married into the Kingsley family, I have worked diligently, contributing my share even if not acknowledged."<br /> "Amanda, it has been over a year since your brother passed, and I never once considered remarrying. Now, just because of his words, you demand an explanation from me?"<br /> Pointing at Wesley, the lady questioned, "Just because he accuses me of poisoning, you suspect me? Tell me, did I poison him?" The lady glared at Wesley.<br /> "I am merely analyzing the facts. As for concluding this case, it's not within my purview," Wesley addressed the members of the Kingsley family, saying, "You should conduct a thorough investigation into this matter.<br /> "I will write a prescription. Have Quinn take it on time, and he will recover in seven days."<br /> Amanda hurried to fetch paper and pen while Wesley prepared the prescription. Once done, he was ready to leave.<br /> Amanda said hurriedly, "Mr. Harrington, I've already made arrangements for lunch."<br /> "No need," Wesley smiled.<br /> The Kingsley family sought to build closer ties with Wesley, given his extraordinary medical skills. Wesley was well aware of this.<br /> Looking at Amanda and the others, Wesley remarked, "In the future, if you encounter any difficult medical cases that others cannot solve, seek me out. Remember, cases others cannot solve."<br /> The gaze of the Kingsley family members toward Wesley changed once again. Many renowned healers had eccentric personalities and were difficult to engage.<br /> They hadn't expected Wesley to possess such remarkable medical skills without any airs.<br /> As Wesley prepared to depart, the members of the Kingsley family did not dare to insist on his stay, so they accompanied him outside.<br /> "Oh, how could we forget such an important matter? Amanda, what about the consultation fee?" The middle-aged gent inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the oversight. Please wait a moment." Amanda hurried back inside and soon returned with a bank card in hand.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, there's one million dollars in here."<br /> Without hesitation, Wesley accepted the bank card and boarded Mia's car.<br /> During the journey, Mia boldly looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, you've helped me immensely. Can I treat you to a meal? Don't decline in a hurry. It's not a fancy restaurant, but it will leave you wanting more. It's a small place on the street, with only eight plates of noodles served each day, each plate containing different ingredients."<br /> "I managed to secure a reservation. Are you interested?"<br /> Wesley thought, "Eight Plates of Noodles?<br /> "Ah, Aaron's restaurant. It has been a while since I visited those old friends."<br /> Wesley nodded. "Let's go then."<br /> The restaurant, Eight Plates of Noodles, was located on Chanxold Street near the Yeadeo First Central Hospital.<br /> The establishment was small, serving only eight plates of noodles each day at a price of 10 thousand dollars each. Vernoic's television culinary program had specifically covered this incident.<br /> Reservations were a must to secure a plate.<br /> The restaurant's owner had a mysterious background. While the specifics were unknown, a high-ranking noble from the capital of Vernoic, Kingsland, had caused a scene there once.<br /> He had attempted to force his way in without a reservation. Although this incident hadn't been reported, rumors suggested that a garbage truck had to be called to dispose of the intruder's remains, as he was too shattered to be removed by conventional means.<br /> Since then, no one dared to cause trouble.<br /> On their way, Mia introduced Wesley to the background story.<br /> "Mr. Turner, two plates of noodles." Mia called out once they arrived.<br /> Aaron Turner didn't respond but visibly paused upon seeing Wesley beside Mia.<br /> A faint smile appeared on his usually stoic face. Though the flesh on the face seemed stiff, it was indeed a smile. "Coming right up."<br /> Chapter 8 You Are Blushing<br /> Mia glanced at Aaron with a hint of surprise, thinking, "When does he become so warm and enthusiastic?<br /> His tone seemed a bit agitated earlier, didn't it?"<br /> Soon enough, Aaron brought two plates of noodles to the table. One steaming hot and the other devoid of any warmth.<br /> As Mia observed Aaron placing the plate without steam in front of Wesley, her expression changed slightly.<br /> It was a plate of instant noodles having soaked in cold water, with the seasoning barely dissolved.<br /> She felt a sense of panic. Mia had wanted to leave a good impression on Wesley, which was why she had chosen this place.<br /> However, Aaron had served such a plate of noodles.<br /> She dared not question Aaron. The type of noodles served here was not determined by the guests but by Aaron's mood.<br /> "This lass named Mia is quite something, living up to her name, and quite kind-hearted," Aaron remarked, looking at Wesley.<br /> "Get lost," Wesley retorted, using his fork to pick up the noodles and devouring them.<br /> Mia's face turned pale instantly. Disrespecting Aaron was akin to risking Wesley's life.<br /> To her astonishment, Aaron chuckled, tears welling up in his eyes.<br /> He wiped them away. "Alright, I'll leave you to your meal."<br /> Before departing, he gave Mia a thumbs-up. "Seize the opportunity."<br /> The eight plates of noodles symbolized the eight comrades who had faced life and hardships together.<br /> Wesley ate voraciously. Initially, they had only one pack of instant noodles to share among the eight of them, forcing them to divide it.<br /> Despite the circumstances, they devoured the noodles joyfully.<br /> Aaron had promised that once they survived, each one would have the most delicious plate of noodles.<br /> However, five of the eight had perished.<br /> Wesley had come dangerously close to life-threatening situations, but managed to cling to life.<br /> For him, the plate of noodles was not food but the bond of friendship that had shielded him from harm.<br /> "Do you... know each other?" Mia couldn't help but ask, her voice low and curious.<br /> "Some things are better left unknown," Wesley replied.<br /> Mia nodded in understanding, falling silent as they continued eating noodles. She couldn't help stealing glances at Wesley throughout the meal.<br /> This gent had piqued her curiosity even more.<br /> "Wesley, I see. No wonder you agreed to the divorce so readily. You've already found someone else outside."<br /> A sharp voice interrupted their meal.<br /> Taylor approached with a cold expression, accompanied by Henry.<br /> Taylor's mother was in the nearby hospital, and she had just picked up Frank, planning to buy some food when she unexpectedly saw Wesley.<br /> Of course, she saw Mia, too.<br /> Seeing Wesley dining with a lady more attractive than herself, so soon after the divorce felt like a dagger twisting in Taylor's heart.<br /> Her anger was uncontrollable.<br /> Wesley merely glanced at Taylor, disinterested in engaging with her.<br /> Taylor was stung by his indifferent gaze. She stepped forward, glaring at Wesley. "Are you not going to explain to me?"<br /> Mia looked at Taylor, silently cursing her as a foolish lady.<br /> Wesley continued eating his noodles, lowering his head. "Get lost. Don't disturb me, or I won't hesitate to hit you."<br /> "What did you say?" Henry stepped forward, enraged. "Wesley, try laying a hand on her! Is that all you're capable of? Laying hands on ladies?"<br /> "No wonder Taylor looks down on you. You're truly disgusting trash. Apologize to Taylor now, or else you'll regret coming into this world."<br /> "And how will he regret it? Tell me." Aaron emerged, carrying a cleaver, smiling as he faced Henry and Taylor.<br /> "Mr. Turner, we dare not cause trouble in your place, but this guy is just..."<br /> Henry attempted to speak but was cut off as Aaron's cleaver struck his face, sending him sprawling to the ground.<br /> "Mr. Turner, sorry, we'll leave now." Taylor hastily helped Henry up and hurriedly left.<br /> These two individuals were fortunate to know the legendary story behind Eight Plates of Noodles and had successfully made reservations to dine here multiple times.<br /> Having distanced themselves a bit, Henry covered his face and pointed at Wesley. "Wesley, we have some unfinished business. If you're smart, come over here now and apologize."<br /> "Wesley, I've seen through you as well. I never expected that for the past five years, you've been using my money to keep a lady on the side. We'll settle the score slowly."<br /> As the two noticed Aaron glancing their way, they quickly shut their mouths and hurriedly left.<br /> Once they were out of eyeshots, Aaron fixed his gaze on Wesley. "Your dad doesn't know about your divorce yet, does he?"<br /> "What difference would it make if he did?" Wesley stretched lazily. "I've fulfilled my promise. I've given enough."<br /> Aaron nodded in acknowledgment without saying anything further.<br /> This piqued Mia's curiosity even more. "Is it like what the novels depict? Did you marry Taylor due to some special event?"<br /> Seeing Wesley's glare, Mia lowered her head to focus on her noodles. "I won't ask anymore."<br /> "For the past five years, you've been staying in the stairwell. It has been hard for you, but at least you're still untouched," Aaron remarked before swiftly departing.<br /> Mia stared at Wesley in disbelief, realizing that Aaron's words were meant for her ears.<br /> "What are you staring at? Eat your noodles," Wesley said. Mia chuckled.<br /> "Why are you laughing?"<br /> "You're blushing."<br /> "Nonsense," Wesley retorted.<br /> Unable to contain herself, Mia burst into laughter. She had tried to hold it in, but seeing Wesley's flushed face made it impossible.<br /> Ten minutes later, Mia left on her own accord, sensing that Wesley had something to discuss with Aaron.<br /> Inside Aaron's small shop, Wesley opened a bottle of wine. "Still single?"<br /> "I look too old, no one's interested," Aaron replied, opening a bottle of liquor as well.<br /> "Then why are you meddling in my love lives?"<br /> "Leave a child behind, even if you pass away, someone will remember you." Aaron took a sip. "I've actually investigated this Mia."<br /> "You investigated her?"<br /> "I knew you'd get a divorce. I've been keeping an eye on the pretty ones. This girl had done a lot of good deeds before coming to Yeadeo. Once, she saved three people in a flood and nearly lost her life. Opportunities are rare. You have to seize them."<br /> "When you've figured things out and are ready to marry, then we can discuss our affairs. That's the condition." Wesley downed the entire bottle of liquor.<br /> "Otherwise, don't bother meddling. We're on a one-way path and can't drag others along."<br /> "You..." Aaron sighed as he watched Wesley's retreating figure.<br /> On the road leading to the Feidgeuo Manor, Taylor stood gazing blankly at the entrance not far away.<br /> Twice in one day, she had come here.<br /> The first time was to pick up Frank, and this time was because Frank had lost his expensive watch. She and Henry hadn't even had a meal, rushing over to find it.<br /> The first time, she had come in a hurry when Frank was injured and left quickly as well.<br /> But this time, as Taylor looked at the entrance ahead, an infinite longing sprouted within her.<br /> "If only... I could live here, how wonderful that would be."<br /> Henry looked at her. "One day, I'll definitely build an estate more magnificent than this, and you'll be the lady of the house."<br /> As they conversed, a taxi drove by, stopping at the entrance. The person who got out of the taxi left Taylor stunned.<br /> She rubbed her eyes. | Adoread | 478 | https://facebook.com/61556400142540 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713682800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846707 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:07 PM | 1717446607 | 1735168080 | 890 | 413765634941992 | 1 | 1.7026320702705E+15 | 1713769200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 226177680578601 | 0 | Adoread | 120207811552110265 | client.adoread.com | Learn more | NONE | image | 🔥🔥🔥 Read More👉 | Hottest novel👉👉👉 | https://client.adoread.com/book/loading/page/adoread/19161308412?utm_campaign={{campaign.id}}&utm_content={{campaign.name}} | 1713710196 | 2.261776805786E+14 | Adoread | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438676505_459563796647243_7838648700587245501_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=L9IxxhvV29EQ7kNvgFJ9mjk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCzrJ30rDyW36-K8v2dtNiyb8iM_dyrXHxu1GoN-MyruQ&oe=6663EDC9 | person_profile | 0 | Adoread | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437953319_348354498226227_4112059402185505203_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GhiLezIF7SgQ7kNvgEbqKDe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDu5KF4UwLbNcKBf_ocXD0M_LOiWQ4HQVcQ6L0Lj0Y_EA&oe=6663EFA6 | 0 | 3 | "Wesley, are you trying to harm me? You useless piece of trash, can't even make a decent cup of coffee, can you?"<br /> Madison Blair lifted her coffee cup and splashed it directly onto Wesley Harrington's face.<br /> "What are you looking at, you spineless waste? Your name sounds so lofty? I might as well call you a waste."<br /> Glancing at the grotesque expression of his wife's mother, Wesley pulled out his phone to check the time.<br /> Exactly twelve o'clock. It had been five full years since he married Taylor Reed.<br /> The appointed time had come.<br /> He had fulfilled his promise, safeguarding the Reed family for five years, transforming them from a family living off fishing to one perceived as affluent by the common folk.<br /> Wiping the coffee off his face, he turned and walked away.<br /> "Where do you think you're going? Go fetch some more coffee," Madison shouted.<br /> "Madison, didn't you say this waste is obedient at home, doing whatever he's told? I don't think he's taking it lying down."<br /> Madison grew angrier. "Wesley, you stop right there. My family has fed and housed you. If you dare disobey, I'll have you thrown out!"<br /> Ignoring her, Wesley continued downstairs.<br /> "When Taylor comes back, I'll immediately have you two divorced. Do you hear me? Stay right there," Madison threatened, "I'll let you know your place today."<br /> Grabbing a golf club, Madison swiftly charged towards Wesley.<br /> Seeing Wesley heading downstairs, she swung the club viciously at his back.<br /> Without turning back, Wesley gently sidestepped.<br /> Losing her balance, Madison tumbled forward, rolling down the stairs with a series of thumps.<br /> "Ouch... it hurts, it hurts so much!"<br /> As Madison reached the ground floor, she wailed in pain and her sister immediately rushed to her.<br /> "Wesley, what have you done? How dare you hit my sister!" Madison's sister hurried down, checking on Madison's condition.<br /> Wesley remained silent, observing the scene.<br /> "Quick, call Taylor. Tell her to come back. Today, she must divorce this waste." Madison glared at Wesley. "How dare you hit me? Not only will I let Taylor divorce you, but I'll make sure you leave in disgrace."<br /> "Mum, what's wrong?" At that moment, a gent and a lady walked in.<br /> The lady was Taylor, Madison's daughter.<br /> She ran towards Madison.<br /> As Madison pointed at Wesley, tears streamed down her face. "Taylor, he hit me, he hit me! When you're not home, he changes his attitude, scolding and hitting me in the slightest displeasure. He even pushed me down the stairs just now. Alexis can testify."<br /> Madison's sister, Alexis Blair, chimed in. "Yes, Wesley, this trash not only hit your mother but also threatened to hit me too. We cannot tolerate such trash."<br /> "Taylor, I have been telling you to divorce him for years. You've been supporting him, treating him like a Lord at home, but he's an ungrateful wolf in sheep's clothing."<br /> Helping Madison up, Taylor noticed the scrapes on Madison's arms and legs, her expression turning cold.<br /> "Wesley, why did you hit my mother? You better give me an explanation."<br /> Wesley looked at Taylor, his wife.<br /> Five years had passed, and she had never shown him kindness.<br /> Taylor dressed impeccably, a paragon of a successful lady, with a face that could be deemed angelic, yet whether her heart was as angelic remained a mystery.<br /> Her figure, too, left countless men yearning.<br /> For five years, Wesley had thought he might develop feelings for this lady, but in reality, it never happened.<br /> "There are surveillance cameras in the house," Wesley stated calmly before descending the stairs into the hallway.<br /> Despite residing in a three-story villa, Wesley's living quarters were confined to the stairwell.<br /> He harbored no resentment towards this arrangement. It was merely a promise. It was just that Taylor failed to appreciate him.<br /> This home held little value that he wished to cling onto.<br /> Retrieving a wooden box from beneath his pillow, Wesley extracted two documents. Casting a fleeting glance at the modest abode he had called home for five years, Wesley smiled faintly.<br /> He thought, "Finally... I'm free."<br /> Pushing the door ajar, Wesley was met by Taylor's piercing gaze. "I've reviewed the surveillance footage. Yes, my mother intended to strike you, but even if she did, what difference would it make?"<br /> "She's a lady. How much could her blows hurt you? Why did you dodge?"<br /> "If you hadn't dodged, my mother wouldn't have tumbled down." Wesley stared at Taylor, unable to comprehend her thought process.<br /> He had no interest in engaging in these arguments. Handing over the two documents to Taylor, he remarked, "The divorce agreement. I've already signed it. Take a look. I'm leaving with nothing."<br /> "With your current influence, there's no need for you to visit the city hall. Someone will handle it for you, right?"<br /> Madison was taken aback. She swiftly snatched the divorce agreement, flipping through it hastily.<br /> The contents were indeed straightforward. Both parties willingly divorced, with Wesley relinquishing all claims and having already signed.<br /> In an instant, Madison's pain seemed to dissipate. "Taylor, sign it quickly. Sign it."<br /> Taylor was still in a daze.<br /> She pondered.<br /> "A divorce agreement? Wesley has already prepared a divorce agreement. On what grounds?"<br /> "What gives him the right to initiate a divorce? All these years, he's done nothing at home, lacking any ambition. Always practicing martial arts, what right does he have to seek a divorce?"<br /> "If anyone should initiate it, it should be me. Moreover, now that I'm back to discussing this matter with him. Could it be that word got out, and Wesley, for the sake of his pride, rushed to prepare a divorce agreement first?"<br /> "It must be so, but... No!"<br /> "Wanting to leave with nothing, is he retreating to advance? As the chairman of the Reed Group, how could I be served with a divorce?"<br /> "Hey Wesley, I never expected this from you. Have I not treated you well enough? You seek a divorce, attempting to turn your retreat into advance, aiming to embarrass me?"<br /> Taylor glared at Wesley. "I'm telling you, it's impossible."<br /> Snatching the divorce agreement, she tore it to shreds.<br /> "Taylor, what are you doing? Such a great opportunity. Why not just sign it and let him leave?" Madison grew anxious.<br /> "Mom, I do intend to divorce this trash, but the decision must come from me. I returned specifically to address this matter."<br /> With that, Taylor produced two documents. "Wesley, remember that it's me who's divorcing you. It's me who no longer wants you. Initially, out of marital obligation, I had considered offering you some compensation. Now, you don't even need to think about it. Sign the divorce agreement and leave my home."<br /> Wesley offered a faint smile as he accepted the divorce agreement.<br /> "What are you laughing at?" Taylor demanded angrily.<br /> Wesley's smile seemed to mock her, fueling her rage.<br /> Ignoring her entirely, Wesley signed the document and handed it over.<br /> "What are you laughing at? Answer me! Who do you think you are?" Taylor roared once more.<br /> Wesley glanced at her before striding towards the exit.<br /> "Stop!" The gent who had accompanied Taylor stepped forward, blocking Wesley's path. "Taylor asked you a question, and... Your previous attitude displeased me. Apologize to Taylor, or I'll have you leave in disgrace!"<br /> Chapter 2 The Unspoken Truth<br /> <br /> "Yes, let him leave in disgrace. He thought he could just hit me and walk away so easily," Madison joined in the commotion, also noticing the gent blocking Wesley's path.<br /> Madison had a keen interest in luxury goods, having frequented various high-end establishments over the years as the Reed family's living conditions improved. The gent was wearing an expensive watch and dressed head to toe in high-end luxury brands.<br /> Seeing Madison's gaze, the gent spoke. "Rest assured, today Wesley must pay the price."<br /> The gent introduced himself, looking at Wesley, "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Henry Clark, the eldest son of the Clark family and the general manager of the Clark Group in the North District."<br /> "From now on, I will accompany Taylor on her journey of life, and I will not allow anyone to bully her."<br /> "My identity carries weight. You should understand that. Now, apologize to Taylor. Apologize! Did you hear me? Apologize!"<br /> Madison's eyes lit up. She hadn't expected the gent before her to hold such a high status. She continued to shout, "Did you hear that? Taylor will be with Mr. Clark from now on. Apologize now."<br /> Wesley glanced at Henry, then at Taylor. He thought, "Have they been together all along?" Wesley had wanted to ask but decided against it because there was no need. He simply gave them a glance and continued walking towards the exit.<br /> "Are you ignoring me?" Henry's face turned cold as he reached out to grab Wesley. Henry's hand froze mid-air as he received a solid hit.<br /> "Until I sign the divorce papers, Taylor and I are still wife and husband. I don't care to investigate whether you two had any intimate relationship during that time, but don't provoke me, or I won't hesitate to make you regret it." Wesley's gaze was icy, and as Henry met his eyes, he felt a twinge of fear and swallowed his words.<br /> Taylor was also stunned. She knew exactly what Wesley had been like over the past five years. There were many surveillance cameras in the house, and she would often check them.<br /> Even when Taylor wasn't home, despite how her family treated Wesley, he always obeyed without complaint, especially towards her. He had never raised his voice, no matter how they treated him.<br /> Today, not only did Wesley dodge when her mother struck, but he also initiated the divorce and now even struck Henry. <br /> Taylor was at a loss for words, thinking, "How could this cowardly gent dare? On what grounds does he dare?"<br /> This change was difficult for Taylor to accept as if she didn't truly understand this guy. The gent who used to be obedient to her, completely submissive, now revealed this side of himself. She watched Wesley walk away in a daze, feeling a strange discomfort in her heart.<br /> "Isn't he leaving with nothing?" Alexis pointed at the wooden box Wesley was holding. "What is he taking with him?"<br /> Madison also realized. Over the past five years, Wesley had always treasured this wooden box, carrying it with him wherever he went. She thought there must be something valuable inside.<br /> Realizing this, Madison hurriedly followed. "Wesley, stop right there, leave the wooden box."<br /> Wesley paused, glanced at Madison, and said, "This is my personal belonging."<br /> "Nonsense, what personal belonging could you possibly have after marrying into the Reed family? Everything you've eaten, worn, and lived in over the years has been provided by the Reed family. Put it down."<br /> As she spoke, Madison reached out to grab the wooden box.<br /> "Ah..." A scream rang out as Madison quickly retracted her hand, a gash appearing on her palm, a crimson liquid dripping.<br /> The wooden box was now stained with the same crimson liquid, trembling lightly in Wesley's hand.<br /> "It's not the right time yet, the day you thirst for this crimson liquid will come," Wesley murmured softly, patting the box before turning to continue his stride towards the exit.<br /> "Monster! A monster!" Madison screamed, causing Taylor and the others to rush out. Seeing the wound in Madison's hand, Taylor was filled with rage.<br /> "Wesley, aren't you going to say something?" Wesley halted once more, contemplating before meeting Taylor's gaze.<br /> "Just stay out of my way from now on. Consider this a warning to you."<br /> "Taylor, that wooden box of his has a mechanism. It must hold something valuable! We can't let him take it with him," Madison, enduring the pain, reminded them.<br /> "Mom, your injury is important. We'll deal with him later. Let me take you to the hospital first." Taylor comforted Madison before calling out to the retreating Wesley.<br /> "Our marriage is over! Yet, you dared to hurt my mother! This won't be the end of it! I will make you regret it!" Ignoring her, Wesley continued walking out.<br /> "Rest assured, I promise he won't see the light of day tomorrow." Henry stepped forward to console. "Let's focus on getting your wound treated first."<br /> "I want him to regret ever existing in this world, to apologize to me in repentance," Madison roared.<br /> "Mom, trust me, I will make him do just that." Taylor looked at Madison with a mix of pity and determination. "Let's go to the hospital first."<br /> In the villa area, Wesley halted, his voice cold. "Get out."<br /> An elderly gent leaped down from a tree, appearing to be in his seventies, yet landing silently from a height of around ten feet.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, your father wants you to come home and take charge."<br /> "He stopped being my father five years ago. He's my enemy."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you misunderstood your father. He had his reasons back then. I swear in my life, once you know the truth, you will forgive him."<br /> "Huh!" Wesley smirked coldly, saying, "I nearly passed away back then. Is that also a misunderstanding?"<br /> The old gent pleaded, "Mr. Harrington, this situation is truly not as you perceive it."<br /> Wesley didn't engage further with the old guy. The events of that year were etched in his memory forever. He was the one who had been abandoned. If not for that incident, why would he have stayed with the Reed family for five years?<br /> Watching Wesley walk away, the old gent had tears silently streaming down his face. "Mr. Harrington, I truly... I truly can't bring myself to speak the truth, but you have misunderstood your father. He also bears burdens and endures pains beyond what an ordinary person can handle."<br /> As Wesley's figure disappeared, the old gent stood up, hesitated for a moment, then dialed a number on his phone.<br /> "Mr. Harrington is now divorced. I've given you the news firsthand. If your daughter is truly together with Mr. Harrington, you must fulfill the promise and let her persuade Mr. Harrington to come home."<br /> After hanging up, a middle-aged gent in a luxurious estate jumped up excitedly. Calming himself, he immediately made another call. "My dear, you're at Yeadeo, right?<br /> "Go find Wesley now. Don't mention the engagement for now. Use every means to get close to him, make him fall in love with you."<br /> "Dad, I don't have time."<br /> "No matter what you are busy with, you must go find Wesley now. No matter what reason you approach him, you must leave a good impression the first time."<br /> "Dad, I'm in trouble right now. If I don't handle it well, I might be good as gone. I have to deal with it immediately. I'm hanging up."<br /> Chapter 3 You're Nothing<br /> The middle-aged gent's voice lowered significantly. "Is there a big incident happening? You didn't tell me? What happened?"<br /> "Quinn Kingsley from Yeadeo, Mr. Kingsley, used our product and now has one foot on the grave. If something really happens to him..."<br /> "You mean Quinn, the uncontested leader of Yeadeo?"<br /> "Yes."<br /> "In that case, you should go find Wesley. Trust me, in this world, there is no problem that Wesley can't solve. As long as he's willing to help, you'll be fine. Listen to me, go find Wesley immediately."<br /> The lady fell silent for a moment before saying, "Okay."<br /> At Yeadeo Harbor, a gent with a large flaxen chain and a watch, sporting a crew cut, hurriedly disembarked, accompanied by a dozen gentlemen.<br /> "Mr. Reed, wherever that trash is, we will find him and tear him apart."<br /> "Yes, that guy dared to harm your mother. We'll make sure he pays for it."<br /> Frank Reed's face turned cold. "Wesley, you coward, thinking you can overturn the world? How dare you touch my mom? Just wait until I find you, you're finished."<br /> "We've found him. Wesley got into a taxi, and our boys followed him."<br /> "Let's go!" Frank waved his hand, leading dozens of men who boarded the car with harpoons, steel pipes, and other weapons.<br /> Inside the taxi, Wesley gazed at the scenery outside, feeling a strange sense of tranquility.<br /> He thought to himself, "I never imagined that while I was secretly paving the way for the Reed family, Taylor, after progressing so rapidly, would start looking down on me more and more."<br /> "Those ladies who know my true identity, which one of them isn't trying to throw themselves at me? Ladies like that don't interest me."<br /> "Being an ordinary gent is truly difficult," Wesley murmured, smiling faintly and deciding not to dwell on these matters anymore. He had important things to attend to and no time to waste on personal affairs.<br /> "Young lad, are you going to Feidgeuo Manor for a job interview?" The driver, curious about Wesley's destination, inquired.<br /> Feidgeuo Manor was Yeadeo's most mysterious private area. Originally a villa area, it was bought at a huge cost five years ago and completely renovated. It was said to have cost a trillion dollars. The former villa area was now Feidgeuo Manor.<br /> "That's my home," Wesley replied nonchalantly.<br /> The driver was taken aback by this revelation, silently cursing Wesley for bragging. After a couple of minutes, the driver regained his composure. "It seems like you and I both prefer to keep a low profile. My car usually gathers dust at home, so I occasionally drive a taxi to experience life."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "My car has been driven by my assistant for the past few years, so it's not gathering dust."<br /> "Haha..." The driver laughed. "We should get together sometime and see whose car is more impressive."<br /> "Sure, whenever we have the time."<br /> As they chatted, the vehicle soon arrived near Feidgeuo Manor, where the massive head of the Feidgeuo Peak protruded, creating a unique landscape in Yeadeo.<br /> The driver asked with a smile, "Since you're the owner here, it's fine if I drive in, right?"<br /> "Of course," Wesley replied.<br /> As soon as Wesley spoke, several cars caught up from behind.<br /> The cars surrounded the one Wesley was in, with the front vehicles braking to force the car to a stop.<br /> When numerous people descended from cars wielding harpoons and steel pipes, the driver's face paled.<br /> Frank and his group got out of the cars, instantly closing in, and without hesitation, started attacking, the steel pipes and harpoons thudding against the car.<br /> Frank's henchman yanked open the door of Wesley's car, poised to stab Wesley with a harpoon, but Wesley swiftly exited the vehicle.<br /> With a firm step on the ground, he launched a swift hit.<br /> A muffled sound echoed as the henchman was hit away.<br /> "What are you looking at?" Frank noticed his henchmen were all staring at him. "All of you, attack together and take him down!"<br /> As he commanded, the henchmen Frank brought with him surged forward.<br /> The taxi driver, trembling, took out his phone to call the police, but Frank glared at him. "I am Frank Reed from Yeadeo Harbor. If you dare, go ahead and make that call."<br /> Frank, leveraging his sister Taylor's status, had been causing trouble in Yeadeo Harbor, and no one dared to provoke him.<br /> Upon hearing Frank's name, the driver hastily put away his phone. "Mr. Reed, I'll just check the time, you guys continue."<br /> "Huh!" Frank snorted coldly, casting his gaze towards the surrounded Wesley.<br /> The sounds of thuds continued to ring out incessantly. Because Wesley was completely surrounded, Frank was unable to see the situation inside clearly, but he could imagine it. After all, in Frank's mind, the henchmen under his command were not to be trifled with.<br /> "Hit him hard for me!"<br /> Another muffled sound and a figure flew out. At that moment, Frank finally saw the situation clearly, and his face turned pale.<br /> Frank knew that Wesley liked to practice martial arts, but he had never expected Wesley to be this skilled. It wasn't Wesley who had been beaten, but his own men by Wesley alone.<br /> Frantically, Frank turned and ran to retrieve a crossbow from the car.<br /> "Clear the way." Frank bellowed, aiming the crossbow at Wesley.<br /> "You scumbag, you think you can fight? Move one more time, and I'll end your life! Surrender!"<br /> Wesley, holding a wooden box, stared at Frank. Ignoring the crossbow in his hand, Wesley said, "Tell your henchmen to back off, or you'll all see the light from above!"<br /> "You're really good at pretending to be tough." Frank took two steps forward. "See the light? Move a muscle and see if I can end your life or not! If you don't have the guts, apologize now!"<br /> Wesley turned his head and looked at the approaching cars, with two expensive ones in the lead, two more in the rear, and another one in the middle.<br /> "Keep acting tough, and I'll put a hole in your head." Frank spoke while glancing at the five cars. "What, looking for help?"<br /> "Let me tell you, those who ride in these cars are not the kind of weaklings like you who rely on connections. With me here, in Yeadeo's social hierarchy, even those who ride in such cars wouldn't dare meddle in this matter. And let me make it clear, without my sister, you're nothing."<br /> Chapter 4 Is He Worthy?<br /> As Frank's words faded, the five cars came to a halt.<br /> A bodyguard opened the door of the one in the middle, revealing a dazzling pair of shining shoes catching everyone's eye.<br /> The shining shoe encased a beautiful foot. Above, the skirt's hem was adorned with lace.<br /> Then, like a fairy stepping out of a painting, she appeared before everyone's eyes.<br /> The lady was beautiful!<br /> Frank was mesmerized. Ever since the Reed family rose to prominence, he had been surrounded by ladies, but compared to the elegant lady before him, they were worlds apart.<br /> It wasn't just a difference in appearance but an incomparable gap in demeanor.<br /> The lady descending from the Maybach seemed like a celestial being untouched by mortal affairs.<br /> The embodiment of a fairy in the mundane world.<br /> She simply stood there after getting out of the car, perfectly embodying what it meant to be graceful and elegant.<br /> The lady glanced at Wesley, then at Frank.<br /> Frank grinned, saying, "May I have the honor of knowing the name of this esteemed lady? I am Frank..."<br /> The lady spoke calmly. "Disrespect Mr. Harrington, and you're done for."<br /> Her bodyguards, unfazed by Frank's crossbow, swiftly overwhelmed him, sending him crashing to the ground.<br /> The henchmen who had come with Frank, previously defeated by Wesley, now scrambled to their feet and fled in all directions.<br /> Who would dare provoke someone who could afford such a car?<br /> "My sister is Taylor Reed, the chairperson of Reed Group," Frank shouted, clutching his head.<br /> Ignoring him, one of the bodyguards dragged him to the roadside grass while another used a belt to tighten around Frank's neck, exerting pressure.<br /> "Enough, a lesson is all that's needed." Wesley spoke calmly, and only when the lady gestured did the bodyguards release Frank.<br /> Frank lay there, already unconscious.<br /> Wesley turned to the lady. "Who are you?"<br /> "I am Mia Roberts, the general manager of Vinver Business Alliance's Yeadeo branch." She looked at Wesley and continued, "Mr. Harrington, my father mentioned that you have miraculous healing skills and earnestly requested your assistance. A generous reward awaits."<br /> Wesley furrowed his brow slightly, thinking, "There are indeed people who recognize my abilities and status, yet I've rarely intervened in the past five years. Today, shortly after I divorced Taylor, she is here. Whose arrangement is this?"<br /> "Mr. Harrington, my father also mentioned that you are benevolent and has raised the banner of compassion among healers, serving as a role model and benchmark for all in the medical field."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "You have a way with words. Tell me the specifics."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, please get in the car first. I will explain in detail on the way."<br /> The phrase "compassionate healer" held significant weight for Wesley, who had saved countless lives from the brink of death.<br /> Without further ado, he got into the car.<br /> Inside, after Mia brewed coffee for Wesley, she began. "Vinver Business Alliance has a wide range of business operations, and I mainly oversee the health supplement sector, which has seen some success in recent years.<br /> "Recently, Quinn Kingsley started using our medicines, and now there's an accident."<br /> As she spoke, Mia kept her gaze fixed on Wesley.<br /> Quinn, the undisputed leader of Yeadeo, was a figure of immense influence.<br /> Upon hearing this name, Wesley showed no particular reaction. "If the city's leader faces issues with your products, it is indeed a concern. Let's go and see."<br /> With just a sentence, Wesley leaned back in his seat, closing his eyes to rest.<br /> Mia was secretly alarmed, thinking, "He knows who Quinn is, yet he seems indifferent. Who is this Wesley, really? No wonder Dad has instructed me to find a way to win his favor." Mia's inner resistance toward Wesley quietly shifted.<br /> Wesley had piqued her curiosity.<br /> As the vehicle was moving, Wesley's phone rang.<br /> Wesley opened his eyes and took out his phone to see Taylor calling.<br /> Pressing the answer button, he asked, "What's the matter?"<br /> On the other end of the line, Taylor, driving towards Feidgeuo Manor, had a grim expression.<br /> She thought, "Has Wesley ever spoken to me in such a cold tone before? Is he really this heartless right after our divorce?"<br /> Already furious, she snapped. "Wesley, do you even consider yourself a human being?<br /> "Today, not only did you lay hands on my mother, but you also had someone attack my brother. Do you not remember our past at all?"<br /> Wesley calmly replied, "Do we have a past to remember?"<br /> "You truly are a heartless scumbag, just as my mother said. You are an ungrateful and vicious person I raised for five years. Even a pet would wag its tail at me!"<br /> Taylor wanted to continue her tirade, but the phone line had already turned busy.<br /> This only fueled her anger further.<br /> Just now, she had received a call from Frank's underlings, informing her that Wesley had sent people to attack Frank and even intended to end him.<br /> Taylor wanted to demand answers, but...<br /> As Taylor was clutching her fists, her gaze turned icy.<br /> After a moment, she picked up her phone again. "Wesley, you are so narrow-minded. You have no ambition. Any lady would steer clear of you."<br /> "Just because I dumped you, you are doing this on purpose to make me feel sick. Pretending to be aloof and seeking revenge? Do you even deserve it?"<br /> "In Yeadeo, squashing you would be as easy as squashing an ant. You're asking for it! If anything happens to my brother, I will make you wish you were ending!"<br /> Her furious voice message echoed in the car.<br /> Wesley chuckled and put away his phone.<br /> Beside him, Mia seemed contemplative. Before coming, she had already ordered a swift investigation into Wesley.<br /> She was curious, thinking, "How could someone valued by my father could be the one 'marrying into' the Reed family."<br /> Being tactful, Mia chose not to ask and pretended not to have heard.<br /> After about forty minutes, they arrived at the Kingsley Manor.<br /> The Kingsley family members, upon seeing Mia alight from the car, all wore grim expressions.<br /> Mia greeted them with a smile, "Everyone, this is Wesley Harrington, Mr. Harrington, the miraculous healer I specially invited to treat Mr. Kingsley."<br /> "Him? The gent who married into the Reed family?"<br /> "A miraculous healer? Is he even worthy? Are healers so worthless now?"<br /> "A useless gent who mooches off of the Reed family? How dare he call himself a miraculous healer? Truly a joke among all jokes."<br /> Chapter 5 Compassionate Healer<br /> Amanda Kingsley, Quinn's granddaughter, stared coldly at Wesley and Mia.<br /> This lady, dressed in a smart suit, also held significant fame in Yeadeo, overseeing the region's business activities, including investment attraction and various local business negotiations.<br /> Amanda had a favorable view of Taylor, who had risen swiftly in recent times, and they had interacted frequently.<br /> She was aware of Wesley's existence and had advised Taylor to part ways with him early on.<br /> But Amanda never imagined that Mia would bring someone like Wesley, a complete waste, and claim he was a miraculous healer.<br /> Glaring at Mia, she said, "Mia, once my grandfather is well, it's best for your Roberts family to leave Yeadeo."<br /> "As for you..." She glanced at Wesley. "I will advise Taylor to divorce you. You have deceived Taylor's feelings and now shamelessly made your way into my family. You are a despicable creature."<br /> After reprimanding Mia and Wesley, she turned to an elderly gent beside her, and her tone and attitude completely changed. "Mr. Phillips, sorry to trouble you. My grandfather is inside, please."<br /> Mia looked at the elderly gent, who was already in his twilight years, feeling deeply shocked.<br /> Scott Phillips, the 38th generation heir of the Healing Clinic, was now ninety-two years old.<br /> Renowned as a miraculous healer, he was a respected figure in the medical community of Yeadeo and even nationally.<br /> He no longer conducted consultations personally due to his old age. Mia had visited him specifically to pay her respects once she had arrived in Yeadeo but had not met Scott.<br /> She never expected Scott to appear in person. It was understandable, as Quinn held a prominent position in the city. Despite the profound influence of the Phillips family, they still had to show respect to Quinn.<br /> Mia looked at Wesley, feeling conflicted and thinking, "Dad has confidently claimed that Wesley has extraordinary abilities, but does he really?"<br /> She harbored doubts, but out of propriety, Mia spoke. "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the trouble."<br /> Wesley smiled, "It's fine. As long as the person can be healed."<br /> His open-mindedness impressed Mia.<br /> After about half an hour, Amanda emerged from the room. All eyes instantly turned towards her.<br /> It was evident that Amanda had wailed out, with traces of tears still visible.<br /> "Amanda, how is it?" A middle-aged gent anxiously asked her.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family who had rushed back also focused their attention on her.<br /> "Mr. Phillips said that there's little hope of recovery. He could only use acupuncture to wake grandfather for half an hour. When grandfather wakes up, let's all go in and see if he has any final instructions."<br /> Everyone was shocked.<br /> "How could this be?"<br /> "Is Mr. Phillips also helpless?"<br /> The members of the Kingsley family found it hard to accept this reality, especially since Quinn had always treated his juniors well.<br /> The thought of Quinn departing saddened some, and tears silently fell.<br /> Publicly, Quinn's status was the foundation of the Kingsley family's prominence in Yeadeo.<br /> If Quinn were to pass away, the Kingsley family would undoubtedly decline.<br /> The atmosphere within the Kingsley family was somber.<br /> Amanda looked at her family members, opened her mouth, but said nothing, silently turning back into the room.<br /> "Stop crying," A middle-aged gent said sternly, "Dad wouldn't want to see you all in tears. If he's really leaving, we mustn't let him worry about us. Pull yourselves together."<br /> After these words, the middle-aged gent also entered the room.<br /> The younger members of the Kingsley family wiped their tears vigorously, trying to force smiles, but in truth, they looked better at crying than pretending to be happy.<br /> Mia's spirit plummeted as she realized the gravity of the situation. Even if an ordinary person passed away from consuming health supplements, it spelled big trouble for those who sold them. And when the deceased happened to be Quinn, the stakes were even higher.<br /> She understood that it would be difficult for this branch to stay in Yeadeo, and even the headquarters might face repercussions.<br /> "Let's go in and have a look." Wesley glanced at Mia. "There might still be a chance."<br /> "Ah..." Mia stared at Wesley in surprise. Seeing him already heading towards the room, she quickly followed suit.<br /> Inside the room, the members of the Kingsley family stood around the mattress, maintaining a certain distance.<br /> Scott lit the alcohol lamp and took out the needles, his expression solemn.<br /> He looked at the members of the Kingsley family. "Think about what you want to say to Mr. Kingsley later. Once you're ready, let me know, and then I'll proceed with the acupuncture."<br /> As he said this, tears welled up in many eyes.<br /> "If you don't mind, let me take a look. I have a way." Wesley spoke up, drawing everyone's attention.<br /> Amanda's face darkened. "Who let you in? Get out!"<br /> "Mia, have you lost your mind? Tricked by this trash and actually brought him here as a miracle healer. Get out with him! I'll settle the score with you in a couple of days."<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, at a loss for words.<br /> "Even Mr. Phillips is unable to reverse the situation. What use are you? Get out." Another younger member of the Kingsley family angrily rebuked.<br /> The middle-aged gent added, "We're in no mood right now. You better leave immediately."<br /> "I understand your narrow-mindedness," Wesley continued, "But as a healer, once I see a patient, I cannot stand by and watch him draw his last breath."<br /> "Wesley, you're quite the charlatan. Do you really want to be gone right now?" Amanda's voice was filled with anger.<br /> "Amanda, let me say a few words," Scott interjected, and Amanda fell silent.<br /> Looking at Wesley, Scott began. "Young lad, at my age, I've seen a lot and have a broad perspective. Today, however, I find it hard to remain indifferent. I practiced medicine from the age of sixteen until I stopped seeing patients for a total of seventy years."<br /> "I've saved countless patients from various illnesses. I never easily declare a patient's fate, nor do I believe I have the right to do so."<br /> "But from your recent remarks, it seems like you're accusing me of such actions. Young people wanting to make a name for themselves by stepping on the shoulders of their predecessors, I can understand."<br /> "But this kind of behavior displeases me."<br /> "My displeasure, what does it mean to you? Do you understand?"<br /> "Even if you are a healer, your career will be ruined because of this."<br /> Chapter 6 Hand of Hell<br /> In the face of Scott's veiled threats, Wesley simply smiled and brushed them off.<br /> Looking at Scott, he asked, "I've always focused on the issue at hand rather than attacking individuals. I have a few questions for you. If you can't administer the needles, how long do you think Quinn can hold on?"<br /> "Seven days, but he will remain unconscious," Scott replied bluntly.<br /> "Then let me ask you this, is there anyone in the world with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "Outrageous," Amanda coldly interjected, "Mr. Phillips is unparalleled in his medical expertise."<br /> Scott glanced at Amanda. "Amanda, let me handle this question."<br /> Continuing to address Wesley, he said, "I don't underestimate myself, nor do I overestimate. There are countless talented individuals in the world, like stars in the sky. I may not dare claim to be the best in medical skills, but those who surpass me are few."<br /> "That means there are some," Wesley calmly remarked, causing Scott's expression to shift slightly, "Indeed, there are."<br /> "Then let me ask you this. Do you think within seven days, the Kingsley family won't find someone with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "If they do find someone, do you believe there is an illness that you cannot cure, but this person can?"<br /> Wesley's questions were sharp and resounding.<br /> Scott's face changed once more as he was rendered speechless.<br /> "Even if there is, that person will never be you." Amanda's face turned icy. "Now get out. Don't spout your eloquence here. Your deceitful behavior is repulsive."<br /> "Your understanding of me is merely hearsay, isn't it?" Wesley retorted, his gaze mocking Amanda, "Has your background and education taught you such arrogance and prejudice?"<br /> "Arrogance?" Amanda's face grew colder as she disdainfully looked at Wesley. "Prejudice?<br /> "Did I say something wrong just now? You are nothing but stagnant waste, a parasite living off others. If it weren't for Taylor, you would have starved on the streets long ago."<br /> "Relying on sweet words, deceiving Taylor. She, with her kind heart, can't bear to divorce you, but don't push your luck. If it weren't for Taylor's sake, you would have been sent out long ago."<br /> Scott interrupted Amanda, "Amanda, although I find this lad a bit annoying, what he said does hold some truth. There are indeed individuals with better medical skills than me. Your grandfather can hold on for seven days. Try reaching out to see if someone can come over. I'll help you make connections."<br /> "If it really doesn't work out after seven days, I'll administer the needles to your grandfather. However, at that point, I can only buy you three minutes."<br /> As soon as Scott spoke, the faces of the Kingsley family members grew even more solemn. True healers were rare and not easily summoned.<br /> While the Kingsley family had connections in Yeadeo, their influence waned outside of it.<br /> "Mr. Phillips, please administer the needles. Life has its ups and downs, and we understand that. Just buy my father a bit more time." The middle-aged gent spoke up.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family nodded in agreement.<br /> Amanda looked at Scott. "Mr. Phillips, please."<br /> "In that case, please have everyone unrelated leave. I need silence," Scott calmly stated.<br /> Amanda glared at Wesley, her eyes speaking volumes without a word.<br /> The unrelated individuals were, naturally, Wesley and Mia.<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, intending to leave, but she suddenly hesitated.<br /> Instead of leaving, Wesley moved forward.<br /> "What are you doing?" A young member of the Kingsley family stepped forward with a stern expression, pushing Wesley.<br /> In one swift motion, Wesley executed a clean shoulder throw, toppling the young gent to the ground, his own expression turning cold.<br /> "A bunch of fools! If it weren't for my teacher's teachings about not turning a blind eye to those in need, I wouldn't bother with you ignorant lot," Wesley remarked with disdain.<br /> As Wesley effortlessly took down one individual from the Kingsley family, the others seemed slow to react.<br /> By the time they realized what was happening, Wesley had already picked up the needle next to Scott and casually flicked his wrist.<br /> The needle flew out of his hand, piercing Quinn's temple, followed by a second needle, a third needle, and so on.<br /> "What are you doing? Stop!" Amanda's voice rose in urgency, echoed by the rest of the Kingsley family members who rushed forward to restrain Wesley.<br /> "Stay back, everyone. Wait." Scott suddenly stood up, blocking the others. "Let him try."<br /> Amanda and the others were left dumbfounded, thinking, "What does this mean?"<br /> Despite their confusion, they heeded Scott's words.<br /> After Scott stopped the members of the Kingsley family, he fixed his gaze on Wesley.<br /> Wesley proceeded to use eighteen needles in succession, symbolizing the levels of pain.<br /> Even if someone had descended into the depths of hell, they must be brought back.<br /> The final needle, also piercing a vital point, caused Quinn's body to tremble suddenly, resonating with the previous eighteen needles.<br /> Scott's eyes widened, his body trembling slightly. His reaction left Amanda and the others even more puzzled, but none dared to interrupt.<br /> Moments later, Wesley placed a palm on Quinn's chest, causing all eighteen needles to be shaken off. When all the needles landed on the ground, the part of the skin where the needles had pierced turned dark.<br /> Wesley then dragged Quinn to the edge of the mattress, flipped him over with his head facing downwards, and gave him a firm pat on the back.<br /> Quinn spat out a mouthful of black liquid. When Wesley flipped him back to lie flat, his complexion had regained some color.<br /> "The Hand of Darkness... It's the Hand of Darkness!" Scott exclaimed with excitement, his body quivering, "It's the Hand that descends into the dark world, snatching people from the hands of the Evil!"<br /> "You do have some knowledge, recognizing the Hand of Darkness." Wesley glanced at Scott.<br /> Scott's gaze towards Wesley had undergone a drastic change. He respectfully clasped his hands together.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thirty years ago, I had the honor of attending a teaching conference held by Mr. Vanderbilt. I saw the Hand of Darkness, but my limited aptitude only allowed me to grasp the basics."<br /> "I have been blind and ignorant. I apologize for my earlier offenses. Please forgive me, Mr. Harrington."<br /> The Mr. Vanderbilt Scott referred to was Wesley's teacher, Ulysses Vanderbilt. He generously imparted his skills to others, but the ability to learn depended on one's innate talent.<br /> In this world, few could learn Ulysses' skills.<br /> Scott had been fortunate to receive guidance from Ulysses, which had elevated his medical skills. However, the Hand of Darkness, a miraculous ability, was beyond his comprehension.<br /> Wesley smiled faintly, "Your actions earlier are understandable. I appreciate your words."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you must be an exceptional disciple of Mr. Vanderbilt, possessing unparalleled magnanimity. Impressive," Scott continued.<br /> "Enough with the flattery at your age."<br /> "You are mistaken, Mr. Harrington. Every word I speak is sincere."<br /> Mia, Amanda, and the others stood bewildered by the unfolding situation.<br /> "Mr. Phillips... he... he..." Amanda's words faltered.<br /> Scott turned to the members of the Kingsley family. "Meeting Mr. Harrington was Quinn's luck. His symptoms have been cured by Mr. Harrington. With a few days of rest, he will be fine."<br /> The waste Taylor had previously said was called Mr. Harrington by Scott!<br /> Recalling their previous attitudes, Amanda hurriedly apologized, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> The members of the Kingsley family all apologized in unison, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> Chapter 7 Eight Plates of Noodles<br /> With a faint smile, Wesley remarked, "As family members of a patient, your actions earlier are understandable. There's no need for such formality."<br /> Amanda's perplexity deepened as she thought, "Where is the cowardly waste that Taylor described? This display of magnanimity and breadth is far from it."<br /> Mia, too, felt a shiver of realization, thinking, "No wonder Dad has insisted on my proximity to Wesley.<br /> This guy..."<br /> She gazed at Wesley, her curiosity piqued, a sense of exploration stirring within her.<br /> "Mia has brought you here, Mr. Harrington, to cure my grandfather. The Kingsley family will never forget this act. However, considering that my grandfather's ailment stemmed from the health supplements produced by the Vinver Business Alliance, we will be conducting an investigation into it."<br /> Amanda continued, looking at Wesley, "What do you think... of this approach?"<br /> It was Mia who had invited Wesley, so Amanda had grown wiser, refraining from asking for a direct punishment of the Vinver Business Alliance.<br /> As Mia heard Amanda's words, her heart skipped a beat, realizing trouble was brewing.<br /> "On the way here, Ms. Roberts briefed me on the situation. You conducted experiments on mice, correct?"<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes, the health supplements we received were exclusively provided by the Roberts family. There were no similar cases on the market, so we used mice for testing.<br /> "All the mice that ingested this supplement were gone."<br /> She looked at Mia and added, her voice turned colder. "Before the experiment, I specifically contacted Mia to inquire about the testing methods during the development phase, which involved mice."<br /> "There have been individuals eyeing my grandfather's position, some even wishing for his demise. I never imagined that the Vinver Business Alliance, which I attracted for investment, would become a weapon in someone else's hands."<br /> "Do you have any of the remaining medicine?" Wesley inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes."<br /> "Bring some over."<br /> Immediately, someone fetched the medicine. After it was brought to him, Wesley took out a supplement and swallowed it directly.<br /> This scene left Amanda and the others dumbfounded.<br /> Scott, too, was bewildered. "Mr. Harrington, what are you doing?"<br /> Wesley smiled, "Just proving that this medicine is not toxic."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thank you," Mia thanked sincerely, feeling like sobbing at that moment.<br /> Amanda, with a puzzled expression, looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, are you suggesting that my grandfather's condition wasn't caused by the Vinver Business Alliance's medicine? What about the mice?"<br /> The rest were equally puzzled.<br /> "Yes, but not entirely," Wesley said, leaving everyone even more bewildered.<br /> Mia's emotions were like a rollercoaster ride, from relief to immediate tension.<br /> "This medicine itself is not toxic, but when taken with another substance made from a certain plant, it results in Quinn's condition. The mice would die immediately, while humans could endure a few more days."<br /> Wesley continued to explain, "The plant used in this concoction is originally meant for crafting slow-acting toxins, not for human consumption."<br /> Looking at Amanda, Wesley said, "During this period, whoever had access to your grandfather and the mice will better understand why these events occurred."<br /> The gaze of members of the Kingsley family immediately focused on a lady.<br /> Amanda, somewhat incredulous, looked at her. "Can you offer an explanation?"<br /> The lady was the wife of Amanda's deceased brother. She found it hard to accept, as did the rest of the Kingsley family.<br /> This lady had been named the exemplary lady who served her family well this year, not due to her connection with the Kingsley family but because she genuinely deserved it.<br /> "What do you mean? Amanda, what explanation do you want from me?"<br /> The lady stared at Amanda. "Am I the only one who had access to Grandfather and the mice? You, and you... and you, who didn't have access?"<br /> "You all claim to treat me as family. Since I married into the Kingsley family, I have worked diligently, contributing my share even if not acknowledged."<br /> "Amanda, it has been over a year since your brother passed, and I never once considered remarrying. Now, just because of his words, you demand an explanation from me?"<br /> Pointing at Wesley, the lady questioned, "Just because he accuses me of poisoning, you suspect me? Tell me, did I poison him?" The lady glared at Wesley.<br /> "I am merely analyzing the facts. As for concluding this case, it's not within my purview," Wesley addressed the members of the Kingsley family, saying, "You should conduct a thorough investigation into this matter.<br /> "I will write a prescription. Have Quinn take it on time, and he will recover in seven days."<br /> Amanda hurried to fetch paper and pen while Wesley prepared the prescription. Once done, he was ready to leave.<br /> Amanda said hurriedly, "Mr. Harrington, I've already made arrangements for lunch."<br /> "No need," Wesley smiled.<br /> The Kingsley family sought to build closer ties with Wesley, given his extraordinary medical skills. Wesley was well aware of this.<br /> Looking at Amanda and the others, Wesley remarked, "In the future, if you encounter any difficult medical cases that others cannot solve, seek me out. Remember, cases others cannot solve."<br /> The gaze of the Kingsley family members toward Wesley changed once again. Many renowned healers had eccentric personalities and were difficult to engage.<br /> They hadn't expected Wesley to possess such remarkable medical skills without any airs.<br /> As Wesley prepared to depart, the members of the Kingsley family did not dare to insist on his stay, so they accompanied him outside.<br /> "Oh, how could we forget such an important matter? Amanda, what about the consultation fee?" The middle-aged gent inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the oversight. Please wait a moment." Amanda hurried back inside and soon returned with a bank card in hand.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, there's one million dollars in here."<br /> Without hesitation, Wesley accepted the bank card and boarded Mia's car.<br /> During the journey, Mia boldly looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, you've helped me immensely. Can I treat you to a meal? Don't decline in a hurry. It's not a fancy restaurant, but it will leave you wanting more. It's a small place on the street, with only eight plates of noodles served each day, each plate containing different ingredients."<br /> "I managed to secure a reservation. Are you interested?"<br /> Wesley thought, "Eight Plates of Noodles?<br /> "Ah, Aaron's restaurant. It has been a while since I visited those old friends."<br /> Wesley nodded. "Let's go then."<br /> The restaurant, Eight Plates of Noodles, was located on Chanxold Street near the Yeadeo First Central Hospital.<br /> The establishment was small, serving only eight plates of noodles each day at a price of 10 thousand dollars each. Vernoic's television culinary program had specifically covered this incident.<br /> Reservations were a must to secure a plate.<br /> The restaurant's owner had a mysterious background. While the specifics were unknown, a high-ranking noble from the capital of Vernoic, Kingsland, had caused a scene there once.<br /> He had attempted to force his way in without a reservation. Although this incident hadn't been reported, rumors suggested that a garbage truck had to be called to dispose of the intruder's remains, as he was too shattered to be removed by conventional means.<br /> Since then, no one dared to cause trouble.<br /> On their way, Mia introduced Wesley to the background story.<br /> "Mr. Turner, two plates of noodles." Mia called out once they arrived.<br /> Aaron Turner didn't respond but visibly paused upon seeing Wesley beside Mia.<br /> A faint smile appeared on his usually stoic face. Though the flesh on the face seemed stiff, it was indeed a smile. "Coming right up."<br /> Chapter 8 You Are Blushing<br /> Mia glanced at Aaron with a hint of surprise, thinking, "When does he become so warm and enthusiastic?<br /> His tone seemed a bit agitated earlier, didn't it?"<br /> Soon enough, Aaron brought two plates of noodles to the table. One steaming hot and the other devoid of any warmth.<br /> As Mia observed Aaron placing the plate without steam in front of Wesley, her expression changed slightly.<br /> It was a plate of instant noodles having soaked in cold water, with the seasoning barely dissolved.<br /> She felt a sense of panic. Mia had wanted to leave a good impression on Wesley, which was why she had chosen this place.<br /> However, Aaron had served such a plate of noodles.<br /> She dared not question Aaron. The type of noodles served here was not determined by the guests but by Aaron's mood.<br /> "This lass named Mia is quite something, living up to her name, and quite kind-hearted," Aaron remarked, looking at Wesley.<br /> "Get lost," Wesley retorted, using his fork to pick up the noodles and devouring them.<br /> Mia's face turned pale instantly. Disrespecting Aaron was akin to risking Wesley's life.<br /> To her astonishment, Aaron chuckled, tears welling up in his eyes.<br /> He wiped them away. "Alright, I'll leave you to your meal."<br /> Before departing, he gave Mia a thumbs-up. "Seize the opportunity."<br /> The eight plates of noodles symbolized the eight comrades who had faced life and hardships together.<br /> Wesley ate voraciously. Initially, they had only one pack of instant noodles to share among the eight of them, forcing them to divide it.<br /> Despite the circumstances, they devoured the noodles joyfully.<br /> Aaron had promised that once they survived, each one would have the most delicious plate of noodles.<br /> However, five of the eight had perished.<br /> Wesley had come dangerously close to life-threatening situations, but managed to cling to life.<br /> For him, the plate of noodles was not food but the bond of friendship that had shielded him from harm.<br /> "Do you... know each other?" Mia couldn't help but ask, her voice low and curious.<br /> "Some things are better left unknown," Wesley replied.<br /> Mia nodded in understanding, falling silent as they continued eating noodles. She couldn't help stealing glances at Wesley throughout the meal.<br /> This gent had piqued her curiosity even more.<br /> "Wesley, I see. No wonder you agreed to the divorce so readily. You've already found someone else outside."<br /> A sharp voice interrupted their meal.<br /> Taylor approached with a cold expression, accompanied by Henry.<br /> Taylor's mother was in the nearby hospital, and she had just picked up Frank, planning to buy some food when she unexpectedly saw Wesley.<br /> Of course, she saw Mia, too.<br /> Seeing Wesley dining with a lady more attractive than herself, so soon after the divorce felt like a dagger twisting in Taylor's heart.<br /> Her anger was uncontrollable.<br /> Wesley merely glanced at Taylor, disinterested in engaging with her.<br /> Taylor was stung by his indifferent gaze. She stepped forward, glaring at Wesley. "Are you not going to explain to me?"<br /> Mia looked at Taylor, silently cursing her as a foolish lady.<br /> Wesley continued eating his noodles, lowering his head. "Get lost. Don't disturb me, or I won't hesitate to hit you."<br /> "What did you say?" Henry stepped forward, enraged. "Wesley, try laying a hand on her! Is that all you're capable of? Laying hands on ladies?"<br /> "No wonder Taylor looks down on you. You're truly disgusting trash. Apologize to Taylor now, or else you'll regret coming into this world."<br /> "And how will he regret it? Tell me." Aaron emerged, carrying a cleaver, smiling as he faced Henry and Taylor.<br /> "Mr. Turner, we dare not cause trouble in your place, but this guy is just..."<br /> Henry attempted to speak but was cut off as Aaron's cleaver struck his face, sending him sprawling to the ground.<br /> "Mr. Turner, sorry, we'll leave now." Taylor hastily helped Henry up and hurriedly left.<br /> These two individuals were fortunate to know the legendary story behind Eight Plates of Noodles and had successfully made reservations to dine here multiple times.<br /> Having distanced themselves a bit, Henry covered his face and pointed at Wesley. "Wesley, we have some unfinished business. If you're smart, come over here now and apologize."<br /> "Wesley, I've seen through you as well. I never expected that for the past five years, you've been using my money to keep a lady on the side. We'll settle the score slowly."<br /> As the two noticed Aaron glancing their way, they quickly shut their mouths and hurriedly left.<br /> Once they were out of eyeshots, Aaron fixed his gaze on Wesley. "Your dad doesn't know about your divorce yet, does he?"<br /> "What difference would it make if he did?" Wesley stretched lazily. "I've fulfilled my promise. I've given enough."<br /> Aaron nodded in acknowledgment without saying anything further.<br /> This piqued Mia's curiosity even more. "Is it like what the novels depict? Did you marry Taylor due to some special event?"<br /> Seeing Wesley's glare, Mia lowered her head to focus on her noodles. "I won't ask anymore."<br /> "For the past five years, you've been staying in the stairwell. It has been hard for you, but at least you're still untouched," Aaron remarked before swiftly departing.<br /> Mia stared at Wesley in disbelief, realizing that Aaron's words were meant for her ears.<br /> "What are you staring at? Eat your noodles," Wesley said. Mia chuckled.<br /> "Why are you laughing?"<br /> "You're blushing."<br /> "Nonsense," Wesley retorted.<br /> Unable to contain herself, Mia burst into laughter. She had tried to hold it in, but seeing Wesley's flushed face made it impossible.<br /> Ten minutes later, Mia left on her own accord, sensing that Wesley had something to discuss with Aaron.<br /> Inside Aaron's small shop, Wesley opened a bottle of wine. "Still single?"<br /> "I look too old, no one's interested," Aaron replied, opening a bottle of liquor as well.<br /> "Then why are you meddling in my love lives?"<br /> "Leave a child behind, even if you pass away, someone will remember you." Aaron took a sip. "I've actually investigated this Mia."<br /> "You investigated her?"<br /> "I knew you'd get a divorce. I've been keeping an eye on the pretty ones. This girl had done a lot of good deeds before coming to Yeadeo. Once, she saved three people in a flood and nearly lost her life. Opportunities are rare. You have to seize them."<br /> "When you've figured things out and are ready to marry, then we can discuss our affairs. That's the condition." Wesley downed the entire bottle of liquor.<br /> "Otherwise, don't bother meddling. We're on a one-way path and can't drag others along."<br /> "You..." Aaron sighed as he watched Wesley's retreating figure.<br /> On the road leading to the Feidgeuo Manor, Taylor stood gazing blankly at the entrance not far away.<br /> Twice in one day, she had come here.<br /> The first time was to pick up Frank, and this time was because Frank had lost his expensive watch. She and Henry hadn't even had a meal, rushing over to find it.<br /> The first time, she had come in a hurry when Frank was injured and left quickly as well.<br /> But this time, as Taylor looked at the entrance ahead, an infinite longing sprouted within her.<br /> "If only... I could live here, how wonderful that would be."<br /> Henry looked at her. "One day, I'll definitely build an estate more magnificent than this, and you'll be the lady of the house."<br /> As they conversed, a taxi drove by, stopping at the entrance. The person who got out of the taxi left Taylor stunned.<br /> She rubbed her eyes. | Adoread | 478 | https://facebook.com/61556400142540 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713682800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846708 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446607 | 1735168080 | 890 | 451779607385831 | 14 | 1.5597180248779E+15 | 1713769200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 226177680578601 | 0 | Adoread | 120207746049430265 | client.adoread.com | Learn more | NONE | image | 🔥🔥🔥 Read More👉 | Hottest novel👉👉👉 | https://client.adoread.com/book/loading/page/adoread/19161308412?utm_campaign={{campaign.id}}&utm_content={{campaign.name}} | 1713519398 | 2.261776805786E+14 | Adoread | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437724011_960421695526729_1516574307485338648_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=l_G8tVeTtEgQ7kNvgFeNOjc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCB5FhnmcYsTDI5mFvM9rbmvHAtn4U9pZesYIo4Y--4GQ&oe=6663DFF9 | person_profile | 0 | Adoread | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437891881_25238797299100336_7255863263127890524_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3iKvzAq3LOMQ7kNvgGVAFDU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD7YHHROSUNotjMOpUlQLuNcLhYuJaKQMOZLIP_OWK1eg&oe=6663E925 | 0 | 3 | "Wesley, are you trying to harm me? You useless piece of trash, can't even make a decent cup of coffee, can you?"<br /> Madison Blair lifted her coffee cup and splashed it directly onto Wesley Harrington's face.<br /> "What are you looking at, you spineless waste? Your name sounds so lofty? I might as well call you a waste."<br /> Glancing at the grotesque expression of his wife's mother, Wesley pulled out his phone to check the time.<br /> Exactly twelve o'clock. It had been five full years since he married Taylor Reed.<br /> The appointed time had come.<br /> He had fulfilled his promise, safeguarding the Reed family for five years, transforming them from a family living off fishing to one perceived as affluent by the common folk.<br /> Wiping the coffee off his face, he turned and walked away.<br /> "Where do you think you're going? Go fetch some more coffee," Madison shouted.<br /> "Madison, didn't you say this waste is obedient at home, doing whatever he's told? I don't think he's taking it lying down."<br /> Madison grew angrier. "Wesley, you stop right there. My family has fed and housed you. If you dare disobey, I'll have you thrown out!"<br /> Ignoring her, Wesley continued downstairs.<br /> "When Taylor comes back, I'll immediately have you two divorced. Do you hear me? Stay right there," Madison threatened, "I'll let you know your place today."<br /> Grabbing a golf club, Madison swiftly charged towards Wesley.<br /> Seeing Wesley heading downstairs, she swung the club viciously at his back.<br /> Without turning back, Wesley gently sidestepped.<br /> Losing her balance, Madison tumbled forward, rolling down the stairs with a series of thumps.<br /> "Ouch... it hurts, it hurts so much!"<br /> As Madison reached the ground floor, she wailed in pain and her sister immediately rushed to her.<br /> "Wesley, what have you done? How dare you hit my sister!" Madison's sister hurried down, checking on Madison's condition.<br /> Wesley remained silent, observing the scene.<br /> "Quick, call Taylor. Tell her to come back. Today, she must divorce this waste." Madison glared at Wesley. "How dare you hit me? Not only will I let Taylor divorce you, but I'll make sure you leave in disgrace."<br /> "Mum, what's wrong?" At that moment, a gent and a lady walked in.<br /> The lady was Taylor, Madison's daughter.<br /> She ran towards Madison.<br /> As Madison pointed at Wesley, tears streamed down her face. "Taylor, he hit me, he hit me! When you're not home, he changes his attitude, scolding and hitting me in the slightest displeasure. He even pushed me down the stairs just now. Alexis can testify."<br /> Madison's sister, Alexis Blair, chimed in. "Yes, Wesley, this trash not only hit your mother but also threatened to hit me too. We cannot tolerate such trash."<br /> "Taylor, I have been telling you to divorce him for years. You've been supporting him, treating him like a Lord at home, but he's an ungrateful wolf in sheep's clothing."<br /> Helping Madison up, Taylor noticed the scrapes on Madison's arms and legs, her expression turning cold.<br /> "Wesley, why did you hit my mother? You better give me an explanation."<br /> Wesley looked at Taylor, his wife.<br /> Five years had passed, and she had never shown him kindness.<br /> Taylor dressed impeccably, a paragon of a successful lady, with a face that could be deemed angelic, yet whether her heart was as angelic remained a mystery.<br /> Her figure, too, left countless men yearning.<br /> For five years, Wesley had thought he might develop feelings for this lady, but in reality, it never happened.<br /> "There are surveillance cameras in the house," Wesley stated calmly before descending the stairs into the hallway.<br /> Despite residing in a three-story villa, Wesley's living quarters were confined to the stairwell.<br /> He harbored no resentment towards this arrangement. It was merely a promise. It was just that Taylor failed to appreciate him.<br /> This home held little value that he wished to cling onto.<br /> Retrieving a wooden box from beneath his pillow, Wesley extracted two documents. Casting a fleeting glance at the modest abode he had called home for five years, Wesley smiled faintly.<br /> He thought, "Finally... I'm free."<br /> Pushing the door ajar, Wesley was met by Taylor's piercing gaze. "I've reviewed the surveillance footage. Yes, my mother intended to strike you, but even if she did, what difference would it make?"<br /> "She's a lady. How much could her blows hurt you? Why did you dodge?"<br /> "If you hadn't dodged, my mother wouldn't have tumbled down." Wesley stared at Taylor, unable to comprehend her thought process.<br /> He had no interest in engaging in these arguments. Handing over the two documents to Taylor, he remarked, "The divorce agreement. I've already signed it. Take a look. I'm leaving with nothing."<br /> "With your current influence, there's no need for you to visit the city hall. Someone will handle it for you, right?"<br /> Madison was taken aback. She swiftly snatched the divorce agreement, flipping through it hastily.<br /> The contents were indeed straightforward. Both parties willingly divorced, with Wesley relinquishing all claims and having already signed.<br /> In an instant, Madison's pain seemed to dissipate. "Taylor, sign it quickly. Sign it."<br /> Taylor was still in a daze.<br /> She pondered.<br /> "A divorce agreement? Wesley has already prepared a divorce agreement. On what grounds?"<br /> "What gives him the right to initiate a divorce? All these years, he's done nothing at home, lacking any ambition. Always practicing martial arts, what right does he have to seek a divorce?"<br /> "If anyone should initiate it, it should be me. Moreover, now that I'm back to discussing this matter with him. Could it be that word got out, and Wesley, for the sake of his pride, rushed to prepare a divorce agreement first?"<br /> "It must be so, but... No!"<br /> "Wanting to leave with nothing, is he retreating to advance? As the chairman of the Reed Group, how could I be served with a divorce?"<br /> "Hey Wesley, I never expected this from you. Have I not treated you well enough? You seek a divorce, attempting to turn your retreat into advance, aiming to embarrass me?"<br /> Taylor glared at Wesley. "I'm telling you, it's impossible."<br /> Snatching the divorce agreement, she tore it to shreds.<br /> "Taylor, what are you doing? Such a great opportunity. Why not just sign it and let him leave?" Madison grew anxious.<br /> "Mom, I do intend to divorce this trash, but the decision must come from me. I returned specifically to address this matter."<br /> With that, Taylor produced two documents. "Wesley, remember that it's me who's divorcing you. It's me who no longer wants you. Initially, out of marital obligation, I had considered offering you some compensation. Now, you don't even need to think about it. Sign the divorce agreement and leave my home."<br /> Wesley offered a faint smile as he accepted the divorce agreement.<br /> "What are you laughing at?" Taylor demanded angrily.<br /> Wesley's smile seemed to mock her, fueling her rage.<br /> Ignoring her entirely, Wesley signed the document and handed it over.<br /> "What are you laughing at? Answer me! Who do you think you are?" Taylor roared once more.<br /> Wesley glanced at her before striding towards the exit.<br /> "Stop!" The gent who had accompanied Taylor stepped forward, blocking Wesley's path. "Taylor asked you a question, and... Your previous attitude displeased me. Apologize to Taylor, or I'll have you leave in disgrace!"<br /> Chapter 2 The Unspoken Truth<br /> <br /> "Yes, let him leave in disgrace. He thought he could just hit me and walk away so easily," Madison joined in the commotion, also noticing the gent blocking Wesley's path.<br /> Madison had a keen interest in luxury goods, having frequented various high-end establishments over the years as the Reed family's living conditions improved. The gent was wearing an expensive watch and dressed head to toe in high-end luxury brands.<br /> Seeing Madison's gaze, the gent spoke. "Rest assured, today Wesley must pay the price."<br /> The gent introduced himself, looking at Wesley, "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Henry Clark, the eldest son of the Clark family and the general manager of the Clark Group in the North District."<br /> "From now on, I will accompany Taylor on her journey of life, and I will not allow anyone to bully her."<br /> "My identity carries weight. You should understand that. Now, apologize to Taylor. Apologize! Did you hear me? Apologize!"<br /> Madison's eyes lit up. She hadn't expected the gent before her to hold such a high status. She continued to shout, "Did you hear that? Taylor will be with Mr. Clark from now on. Apologize now."<br /> Wesley glanced at Henry, then at Taylor. He thought, "Have they been together all along?" Wesley had wanted to ask but decided against it because there was no need. He simply gave them a glance and continued walking towards the exit.<br /> "Are you ignoring me?" Henry's face turned cold as he reached out to grab Wesley. Henry's hand froze mid-air as he received a solid hit.<br /> "Until I sign the divorce papers, Taylor and I are still wife and husband. I don't care to investigate whether you two had any intimate relationship during that time, but don't provoke me, or I won't hesitate to make you regret it." Wesley's gaze was icy, and as Henry met his eyes, he felt a twinge of fear and swallowed his words.<br /> Taylor was also stunned. She knew exactly what Wesley had been like over the past five years. There were many surveillance cameras in the house, and she would often check them.<br /> Even when Taylor wasn't home, despite how her family treated Wesley, he always obeyed without complaint, especially towards her. He had never raised his voice, no matter how they treated him.<br /> Today, not only did Wesley dodge when her mother struck, but he also initiated the divorce and now even struck Henry. <br /> Taylor was at a loss for words, thinking, "How could this cowardly gent dare? On what grounds does he dare?"<br /> This change was difficult for Taylor to accept as if she didn't truly understand this guy. The gent who used to be obedient to her, completely submissive, now revealed this side of himself. She watched Wesley walk away in a daze, feeling a strange discomfort in her heart.<br /> "Isn't he leaving with nothing?" Alexis pointed at the wooden box Wesley was holding. "What is he taking with him?"<br /> Madison also realized. Over the past five years, Wesley had always treasured this wooden box, carrying it with him wherever he went. She thought there must be something valuable inside.<br /> Realizing this, Madison hurriedly followed. "Wesley, stop right there, leave the wooden box."<br /> Wesley paused, glanced at Madison, and said, "This is my personal belonging."<br /> "Nonsense, what personal belonging could you possibly have after marrying into the Reed family? Everything you've eaten, worn, and lived in over the years has been provided by the Reed family. Put it down."<br /> As she spoke, Madison reached out to grab the wooden box.<br /> "Ah..." A scream rang out as Madison quickly retracted her hand, a gash appearing on her palm, a crimson liquid dripping.<br /> The wooden box was now stained with the same crimson liquid, trembling lightly in Wesley's hand.<br /> "It's not the right time yet, the day you thirst for this crimson liquid will come," Wesley murmured softly, patting the box before turning to continue his stride towards the exit.<br /> "Monster! A monster!" Madison screamed, causing Taylor and the others to rush out. Seeing the wound in Madison's hand, Taylor was filled with rage.<br /> "Wesley, aren't you going to say something?" Wesley halted once more, contemplating before meeting Taylor's gaze.<br /> "Just stay out of my way from now on. Consider this a warning to you."<br /> "Taylor, that wooden box of his has a mechanism. It must hold something valuable! We can't let him take it with him," Madison, enduring the pain, reminded them.<br /> "Mom, your injury is important. We'll deal with him later. Let me take you to the hospital first." Taylor comforted Madison before calling out to the retreating Wesley.<br /> "Our marriage is over! Yet, you dared to hurt my mother! This won't be the end of it! I will make you regret it!" Ignoring her, Wesley continued walking out.<br /> "Rest assured, I promise he won't see the light of day tomorrow." Henry stepped forward to console. "Let's focus on getting your wound treated first."<br /> "I want him to regret ever existing in this world, to apologize to me in repentance," Madison roared.<br /> "Mom, trust me, I will make him do just that." Taylor looked at Madison with a mix of pity and determination. "Let's go to the hospital first."<br /> In the villa area, Wesley halted, his voice cold. "Get out."<br /> An elderly gent leaped down from a tree, appearing to be in his seventies, yet landing silently from a height of around ten feet.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, your father wants you to come home and take charge."<br /> "He stopped being my father five years ago. He's my enemy."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you misunderstood your father. He had his reasons back then. I swear in my life, once you know the truth, you will forgive him."<br /> "Huh!" Wesley smirked coldly, saying, "I nearly passed away back then. Is that also a misunderstanding?"<br /> The old gent pleaded, "Mr. Harrington, this situation is truly not as you perceive it."<br /> Wesley didn't engage further with the old guy. The events of that year were etched in his memory forever. He was the one who had been abandoned. If not for that incident, why would he have stayed with the Reed family for five years?<br /> Watching Wesley walk away, the old gent had tears silently streaming down his face. "Mr. Harrington, I truly... I truly can't bring myself to speak the truth, but you have misunderstood your father. He also bears burdens and endures pains beyond what an ordinary person can handle."<br /> As Wesley's figure disappeared, the old gent stood up, hesitated for a moment, then dialed a number on his phone.<br /> "Mr. Harrington is now divorced. I've given you the news firsthand. If your daughter is truly together with Mr. Harrington, you must fulfill the promise and let her persuade Mr. Harrington to come home."<br /> After hanging up, a middle-aged gent in a luxurious estate jumped up excitedly. Calming himself, he immediately made another call. "My dear, you're at Yeadeo, right?<br /> "Go find Wesley now. Don't mention the engagement for now. Use every means to get close to him, make him fall in love with you."<br /> "Dad, I don't have time."<br /> "No matter what you are busy with, you must go find Wesley now. No matter what reason you approach him, you must leave a good impression the first time."<br /> "Dad, I'm in trouble right now. If I don't handle it well, I might be good as gone. I have to deal with it immediately. I'm hanging up."<br /> Chapter 3 You're Nothing<br /> The middle-aged gent's voice lowered significantly. "Is there a big incident happening? You didn't tell me? What happened?"<br /> "Quinn Kingsley from Yeadeo, Mr. Kingsley, used our product and now has one foot on the grave. If something really happens to him..."<br /> "You mean Quinn, the uncontested leader of Yeadeo?"<br /> "Yes."<br /> "In that case, you should go find Wesley. Trust me, in this world, there is no problem that Wesley can't solve. As long as he's willing to help, you'll be fine. Listen to me, go find Wesley immediately."<br /> The lady fell silent for a moment before saying, "Okay."<br /> At Yeadeo Harbor, a gent with a large flaxen chain and a watch, sporting a crew cut, hurriedly disembarked, accompanied by a dozen gentlemen.<br /> "Mr. Reed, wherever that trash is, we will find him and tear him apart."<br /> "Yes, that guy dared to harm your mother. We'll make sure he pays for it."<br /> Frank Reed's face turned cold. "Wesley, you coward, thinking you can overturn the world? How dare you touch my mom? Just wait until I find you, you're finished."<br /> "We've found him. Wesley got into a taxi, and our boys followed him."<br /> "Let's go!" Frank waved his hand, leading dozens of men who boarded the car with harpoons, steel pipes, and other weapons.<br /> Inside the taxi, Wesley gazed at the scenery outside, feeling a strange sense of tranquility.<br /> He thought to himself, "I never imagined that while I was secretly paving the way for the Reed family, Taylor, after progressing so rapidly, would start looking down on me more and more."<br /> "Those ladies who know my true identity, which one of them isn't trying to throw themselves at me? Ladies like that don't interest me."<br /> "Being an ordinary gent is truly difficult," Wesley murmured, smiling faintly and deciding not to dwell on these matters anymore. He had important things to attend to and no time to waste on personal affairs.<br /> "Young lad, are you going to Feidgeuo Manor for a job interview?" The driver, curious about Wesley's destination, inquired.<br /> Feidgeuo Manor was Yeadeo's most mysterious private area. Originally a villa area, it was bought at a huge cost five years ago and completely renovated. It was said to have cost a trillion dollars. The former villa area was now Feidgeuo Manor.<br /> "That's my home," Wesley replied nonchalantly.<br /> The driver was taken aback by this revelation, silently cursing Wesley for bragging. After a couple of minutes, the driver regained his composure. "It seems like you and I both prefer to keep a low profile. My car usually gathers dust at home, so I occasionally drive a taxi to experience life."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "My car has been driven by my assistant for the past few years, so it's not gathering dust."<br /> "Haha..." The driver laughed. "We should get together sometime and see whose car is more impressive."<br /> "Sure, whenever we have the time."<br /> As they chatted, the vehicle soon arrived near Feidgeuo Manor, where the massive head of the Feidgeuo Peak protruded, creating a unique landscape in Yeadeo.<br /> The driver asked with a smile, "Since you're the owner here, it's fine if I drive in, right?"<br /> "Of course," Wesley replied.<br /> As soon as Wesley spoke, several cars caught up from behind.<br /> The cars surrounded the one Wesley was in, with the front vehicles braking to force the car to a stop.<br /> When numerous people descended from cars wielding harpoons and steel pipes, the driver's face paled.<br /> Frank and his group got out of the cars, instantly closing in, and without hesitation, started attacking, the steel pipes and harpoons thudding against the car.<br /> Frank's henchman yanked open the door of Wesley's car, poised to stab Wesley with a harpoon, but Wesley swiftly exited the vehicle.<br /> With a firm step on the ground, he launched a swift hit.<br /> A muffled sound echoed as the henchman was hit away.<br /> "What are you looking at?" Frank noticed his henchmen were all staring at him. "All of you, attack together and take him down!"<br /> As he commanded, the henchmen Frank brought with him surged forward.<br /> The taxi driver, trembling, took out his phone to call the police, but Frank glared at him. "I am Frank Reed from Yeadeo Harbor. If you dare, go ahead and make that call."<br /> Frank, leveraging his sister Taylor's status, had been causing trouble in Yeadeo Harbor, and no one dared to provoke him.<br /> Upon hearing Frank's name, the driver hastily put away his phone. "Mr. Reed, I'll just check the time, you guys continue."<br /> "Huh!" Frank snorted coldly, casting his gaze towards the surrounded Wesley.<br /> The sounds of thuds continued to ring out incessantly. Because Wesley was completely surrounded, Frank was unable to see the situation inside clearly, but he could imagine it. After all, in Frank's mind, the henchmen under his command were not to be trifled with.<br /> "Hit him hard for me!"<br /> Another muffled sound and a figure flew out. At that moment, Frank finally saw the situation clearly, and his face turned pale.<br /> Frank knew that Wesley liked to practice martial arts, but he had never expected Wesley to be this skilled. It wasn't Wesley who had been beaten, but his own men by Wesley alone.<br /> Frantically, Frank turned and ran to retrieve a crossbow from the car.<br /> "Clear the way." Frank bellowed, aiming the crossbow at Wesley.<br /> "You scumbag, you think you can fight? Move one more time, and I'll end your life! Surrender!"<br /> Wesley, holding a wooden box, stared at Frank. Ignoring the crossbow in his hand, Wesley said, "Tell your henchmen to back off, or you'll all see the light from above!"<br /> "You're really good at pretending to be tough." Frank took two steps forward. "See the light? Move a muscle and see if I can end your life or not! If you don't have the guts, apologize now!"<br /> Wesley turned his head and looked at the approaching cars, with two expensive ones in the lead, two more in the rear, and another one in the middle.<br /> "Keep acting tough, and I'll put a hole in your head." Frank spoke while glancing at the five cars. "What, looking for help?"<br /> "Let me tell you, those who ride in these cars are not the kind of weaklings like you who rely on connections. With me here, in Yeadeo's social hierarchy, even those who ride in such cars wouldn't dare meddle in this matter. And let me make it clear, without my sister, you're nothing."<br /> Chapter 4 Is He Worthy?<br /> As Frank's words faded, the five cars came to a halt.<br /> A bodyguard opened the door of the one in the middle, revealing a dazzling pair of shining shoes catching everyone's eye.<br /> The shining shoe encased a beautiful foot. Above, the skirt's hem was adorned with lace.<br /> Then, like a fairy stepping out of a painting, she appeared before everyone's eyes.<br /> The lady was beautiful!<br /> Frank was mesmerized. Ever since the Reed family rose to prominence, he had been surrounded by ladies, but compared to the elegant lady before him, they were worlds apart.<br /> It wasn't just a difference in appearance but an incomparable gap in demeanor.<br /> The lady descending from the Maybach seemed like a celestial being untouched by mortal affairs.<br /> The embodiment of a fairy in the mundane world.<br /> She simply stood there after getting out of the car, perfectly embodying what it meant to be graceful and elegant.<br /> The lady glanced at Wesley, then at Frank.<br /> Frank grinned, saying, "May I have the honor of knowing the name of this esteemed lady? I am Frank..."<br /> The lady spoke calmly. "Disrespect Mr. Harrington, and you're done for."<br /> Her bodyguards, unfazed by Frank's crossbow, swiftly overwhelmed him, sending him crashing to the ground.<br /> The henchmen who had come with Frank, previously defeated by Wesley, now scrambled to their feet and fled in all directions.<br /> Who would dare provoke someone who could afford such a car?<br /> "My sister is Taylor Reed, the chairperson of Reed Group," Frank shouted, clutching his head.<br /> Ignoring him, one of the bodyguards dragged him to the roadside grass while another used a belt to tighten around Frank's neck, exerting pressure.<br /> "Enough, a lesson is all that's needed." Wesley spoke calmly, and only when the lady gestured did the bodyguards release Frank.<br /> Frank lay there, already unconscious.<br /> Wesley turned to the lady. "Who are you?"<br /> "I am Mia Roberts, the general manager of Vinver Business Alliance's Yeadeo branch." She looked at Wesley and continued, "Mr. Harrington, my father mentioned that you have miraculous healing skills and earnestly requested your assistance. A generous reward awaits."<br /> Wesley furrowed his brow slightly, thinking, "There are indeed people who recognize my abilities and status, yet I've rarely intervened in the past five years. Today, shortly after I divorced Taylor, she is here. Whose arrangement is this?"<br /> "Mr. Harrington, my father also mentioned that you are benevolent and has raised the banner of compassion among healers, serving as a role model and benchmark for all in the medical field."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "You have a way with words. Tell me the specifics."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, please get in the car first. I will explain in detail on the way."<br /> The phrase "compassionate healer" held significant weight for Wesley, who had saved countless lives from the brink of death.<br /> Without further ado, he got into the car.<br /> Inside, after Mia brewed coffee for Wesley, she began. "Vinver Business Alliance has a wide range of business operations, and I mainly oversee the health supplement sector, which has seen some success in recent years.<br /> "Recently, Quinn Kingsley started using our medicines, and now there's an accident."<br /> As she spoke, Mia kept her gaze fixed on Wesley.<br /> Quinn, the undisputed leader of Yeadeo, was a figure of immense influence.<br /> Upon hearing this name, Wesley showed no particular reaction. "If the city's leader faces issues with your products, it is indeed a concern. Let's go and see."<br /> With just a sentence, Wesley leaned back in his seat, closing his eyes to rest.<br /> Mia was secretly alarmed, thinking, "He knows who Quinn is, yet he seems indifferent. Who is this Wesley, really? No wonder Dad has instructed me to find a way to win his favor." Mia's inner resistance toward Wesley quietly shifted.<br /> Wesley had piqued her curiosity.<br /> As the vehicle was moving, Wesley's phone rang.<br /> Wesley opened his eyes and took out his phone to see Taylor calling.<br /> Pressing the answer button, he asked, "What's the matter?"<br /> On the other end of the line, Taylor, driving towards Feidgeuo Manor, had a grim expression.<br /> She thought, "Has Wesley ever spoken to me in such a cold tone before? Is he really this heartless right after our divorce?"<br /> Already furious, she snapped. "Wesley, do you even consider yourself a human being?<br /> "Today, not only did you lay hands on my mother, but you also had someone attack my brother. Do you not remember our past at all?"<br /> Wesley calmly replied, "Do we have a past to remember?"<br /> "You truly are a heartless scumbag, just as my mother said. You are an ungrateful and vicious person I raised for five years. Even a pet would wag its tail at me!"<br /> Taylor wanted to continue her tirade, but the phone line had already turned busy.<br /> This only fueled her anger further.<br /> Just now, she had received a call from Frank's underlings, informing her that Wesley had sent people to attack Frank and even intended to end him.<br /> Taylor wanted to demand answers, but...<br /> As Taylor was clutching her fists, her gaze turned icy.<br /> After a moment, she picked up her phone again. "Wesley, you are so narrow-minded. You have no ambition. Any lady would steer clear of you."<br /> "Just because I dumped you, you are doing this on purpose to make me feel sick. Pretending to be aloof and seeking revenge? Do you even deserve it?"<br /> "In Yeadeo, squashing you would be as easy as squashing an ant. You're asking for it! If anything happens to my brother, I will make you wish you were ending!"<br /> Her furious voice message echoed in the car.<br /> Wesley chuckled and put away his phone.<br /> Beside him, Mia seemed contemplative. Before coming, she had already ordered a swift investigation into Wesley.<br /> She was curious, thinking, "How could someone valued by my father could be the one 'marrying into' the Reed family."<br /> Being tactful, Mia chose not to ask and pretended not to have heard.<br /> After about forty minutes, they arrived at the Kingsley Manor.<br /> The Kingsley family members, upon seeing Mia alight from the car, all wore grim expressions.<br /> Mia greeted them with a smile, "Everyone, this is Wesley Harrington, Mr. Harrington, the miraculous healer I specially invited to treat Mr. Kingsley."<br /> "Him? The gent who married into the Reed family?"<br /> "A miraculous healer? Is he even worthy? Are healers so worthless now?"<br /> "A useless gent who mooches off of the Reed family? How dare he call himself a miraculous healer? Truly a joke among all jokes."<br /> Chapter 5 Compassionate Healer<br /> Amanda Kingsley, Quinn's granddaughter, stared coldly at Wesley and Mia.<br /> This lady, dressed in a smart suit, also held significant fame in Yeadeo, overseeing the region's business activities, including investment attraction and various local business negotiations.<br /> Amanda had a favorable view of Taylor, who had risen swiftly in recent times, and they had interacted frequently.<br /> She was aware of Wesley's existence and had advised Taylor to part ways with him early on.<br /> But Amanda never imagined that Mia would bring someone like Wesley, a complete waste, and claim he was a miraculous healer.<br /> Glaring at Mia, she said, "Mia, once my grandfather is well, it's best for your Roberts family to leave Yeadeo."<br /> "As for you..." She glanced at Wesley. "I will advise Taylor to divorce you. You have deceived Taylor's feelings and now shamelessly made your way into my family. You are a despicable creature."<br /> After reprimanding Mia and Wesley, she turned to an elderly gent beside her, and her tone and attitude completely changed. "Mr. Phillips, sorry to trouble you. My grandfather is inside, please."<br /> Mia looked at the elderly gent, who was already in his twilight years, feeling deeply shocked.<br /> Scott Phillips, the 38th generation heir of the Healing Clinic, was now ninety-two years old.<br /> Renowned as a miraculous healer, he was a respected figure in the medical community of Yeadeo and even nationally.<br /> He no longer conducted consultations personally due to his old age. Mia had visited him specifically to pay her respects once she had arrived in Yeadeo but had not met Scott.<br /> She never expected Scott to appear in person. It was understandable, as Quinn held a prominent position in the city. Despite the profound influence of the Phillips family, they still had to show respect to Quinn.<br /> Mia looked at Wesley, feeling conflicted and thinking, "Dad has confidently claimed that Wesley has extraordinary abilities, but does he really?"<br /> She harbored doubts, but out of propriety, Mia spoke. "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the trouble."<br /> Wesley smiled, "It's fine. As long as the person can be healed."<br /> His open-mindedness impressed Mia.<br /> After about half an hour, Amanda emerged from the room. All eyes instantly turned towards her.<br /> It was evident that Amanda had wailed out, with traces of tears still visible.<br /> "Amanda, how is it?" A middle-aged gent anxiously asked her.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family who had rushed back also focused their attention on her.<br /> "Mr. Phillips said that there's little hope of recovery. He could only use acupuncture to wake grandfather for half an hour. When grandfather wakes up, let's all go in and see if he has any final instructions."<br /> Everyone was shocked.<br /> "How could this be?"<br /> "Is Mr. Phillips also helpless?"<br /> The members of the Kingsley family found it hard to accept this reality, especially since Quinn had always treated his juniors well.<br /> The thought of Quinn departing saddened some, and tears silently fell.<br /> Publicly, Quinn's status was the foundation of the Kingsley family's prominence in Yeadeo.<br /> If Quinn were to pass away, the Kingsley family would undoubtedly decline.<br /> The atmosphere within the Kingsley family was somber.<br /> Amanda looked at her family members, opened her mouth, but said nothing, silently turning back into the room.<br /> "Stop crying," A middle-aged gent said sternly, "Dad wouldn't want to see you all in tears. If he's really leaving, we mustn't let him worry about us. Pull yourselves together."<br /> After these words, the middle-aged gent also entered the room.<br /> The younger members of the Kingsley family wiped their tears vigorously, trying to force smiles, but in truth, they looked better at crying than pretending to be happy.<br /> Mia's spirit plummeted as she realized the gravity of the situation. Even if an ordinary person passed away from consuming health supplements, it spelled big trouble for those who sold them. And when the deceased happened to be Quinn, the stakes were even higher.<br /> She understood that it would be difficult for this branch to stay in Yeadeo, and even the headquarters might face repercussions.<br /> "Let's go in and have a look." Wesley glanced at Mia. "There might still be a chance."<br /> "Ah..." Mia stared at Wesley in surprise. Seeing him already heading towards the room, she quickly followed suit.<br /> Inside the room, the members of the Kingsley family stood around the mattress, maintaining a certain distance.<br /> Scott lit the alcohol lamp and took out the needles, his expression solemn.<br /> He looked at the members of the Kingsley family. "Think about what you want to say to Mr. Kingsley later. Once you're ready, let me know, and then I'll proceed with the acupuncture."<br /> As he said this, tears welled up in many eyes.<br /> "If you don't mind, let me take a look. I have a way." Wesley spoke up, drawing everyone's attention.<br /> Amanda's face darkened. "Who let you in? Get out!"<br /> "Mia, have you lost your mind? Tricked by this trash and actually brought him here as a miracle healer. Get out with him! I'll settle the score with you in a couple of days."<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, at a loss for words.<br /> "Even Mr. Phillips is unable to reverse the situation. What use are you? Get out." Another younger member of the Kingsley family angrily rebuked.<br /> The middle-aged gent added, "We're in no mood right now. You better leave immediately."<br /> "I understand your narrow-mindedness," Wesley continued, "But as a healer, once I see a patient, I cannot stand by and watch him draw his last breath."<br /> "Wesley, you're quite the charlatan. Do you really want to be gone right now?" Amanda's voice was filled with anger.<br /> "Amanda, let me say a few words," Scott interjected, and Amanda fell silent.<br /> Looking at Wesley, Scott began. "Young lad, at my age, I've seen a lot and have a broad perspective. Today, however, I find it hard to remain indifferent. I practiced medicine from the age of sixteen until I stopped seeing patients for a total of seventy years."<br /> "I've saved countless patients from various illnesses. I never easily declare a patient's fate, nor do I believe I have the right to do so."<br /> "But from your recent remarks, it seems like you're accusing me of such actions. Young people wanting to make a name for themselves by stepping on the shoulders of their predecessors, I can understand."<br /> "But this kind of behavior displeases me."<br /> "My displeasure, what does it mean to you? Do you understand?"<br /> "Even if you are a healer, your career will be ruined because of this."<br /> Chapter 6 Hand of Hell<br /> In the face of Scott's veiled threats, Wesley simply smiled and brushed them off.<br /> Looking at Scott, he asked, "I've always focused on the issue at hand rather than attacking individuals. I have a few questions for you. If you can't administer the needles, how long do you think Quinn can hold on?"<br /> "Seven days, but he will remain unconscious," Scott replied bluntly.<br /> "Then let me ask you this, is there anyone in the world with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "Outrageous," Amanda coldly interjected, "Mr. Phillips is unparalleled in his medical expertise."<br /> Scott glanced at Amanda. "Amanda, let me handle this question."<br /> Continuing to address Wesley, he said, "I don't underestimate myself, nor do I overestimate. There are countless talented individuals in the world, like stars in the sky. I may not dare claim to be the best in medical skills, but those who surpass me are few."<br /> "That means there are some," Wesley calmly remarked, causing Scott's expression to shift slightly, "Indeed, there are."<br /> "Then let me ask you this. Do you think within seven days, the Kingsley family won't find someone with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "If they do find someone, do you believe there is an illness that you cannot cure, but this person can?"<br /> Wesley's questions were sharp and resounding.<br /> Scott's face changed once more as he was rendered speechless.<br /> "Even if there is, that person will never be you." Amanda's face turned icy. "Now get out. Don't spout your eloquence here. Your deceitful behavior is repulsive."<br /> "Your understanding of me is merely hearsay, isn't it?" Wesley retorted, his gaze mocking Amanda, "Has your background and education taught you such arrogance and prejudice?"<br /> "Arrogance?" Amanda's face grew colder as she disdainfully looked at Wesley. "Prejudice?<br /> "Did I say something wrong just now? You are nothing but stagnant waste, a parasite living off others. If it weren't for Taylor, you would have starved on the streets long ago."<br /> "Relying on sweet words, deceiving Taylor. She, with her kind heart, can't bear to divorce you, but don't push your luck. If it weren't for Taylor's sake, you would have been sent out long ago."<br /> Scott interrupted Amanda, "Amanda, although I find this lad a bit annoying, what he said does hold some truth. There are indeed individuals with better medical skills than me. Your grandfather can hold on for seven days. Try reaching out to see if someone can come over. I'll help you make connections."<br /> "If it really doesn't work out after seven days, I'll administer the needles to your grandfather. However, at that point, I can only buy you three minutes."<br /> As soon as Scott spoke, the faces of the Kingsley family members grew even more solemn. True healers were rare and not easily summoned.<br /> While the Kingsley family had connections in Yeadeo, their influence waned outside of it.<br /> "Mr. Phillips, please administer the needles. Life has its ups and downs, and we understand that. Just buy my father a bit more time." The middle-aged gent spoke up.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family nodded in agreement.<br /> Amanda looked at Scott. "Mr. Phillips, please."<br /> "In that case, please have everyone unrelated leave. I need silence," Scott calmly stated.<br /> Amanda glared at Wesley, her eyes speaking volumes without a word.<br /> The unrelated individuals were, naturally, Wesley and Mia.<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, intending to leave, but she suddenly hesitated.<br /> Instead of leaving, Wesley moved forward.<br /> "What are you doing?" A young member of the Kingsley family stepped forward with a stern expression, pushing Wesley.<br /> In one swift motion, Wesley executed a clean shoulder throw, toppling the young gent to the ground, his own expression turning cold.<br /> "A bunch of fools! If it weren't for my teacher's teachings about not turning a blind eye to those in need, I wouldn't bother with you ignorant lot," Wesley remarked with disdain.<br /> As Wesley effortlessly took down one individual from the Kingsley family, the others seemed slow to react.<br /> By the time they realized what was happening, Wesley had already picked up the needle next to Scott and casually flicked his wrist.<br /> The needle flew out of his hand, piercing Quinn's temple, followed by a second needle, a third needle, and so on.<br /> "What are you doing? Stop!" Amanda's voice rose in urgency, echoed by the rest of the Kingsley family members who rushed forward to restrain Wesley.<br /> "Stay back, everyone. Wait." Scott suddenly stood up, blocking the others. "Let him try."<br /> Amanda and the others were left dumbfounded, thinking, "What does this mean?"<br /> Despite their confusion, they heeded Scott's words.<br /> After Scott stopped the members of the Kingsley family, he fixed his gaze on Wesley.<br /> Wesley proceeded to use eighteen needles in succession, symbolizing the levels of pain.<br /> Even if someone had descended into the depths of hell, they must be brought back.<br /> The final needle, also piercing a vital point, caused Quinn's body to tremble suddenly, resonating with the previous eighteen needles.<br /> Scott's eyes widened, his body trembling slightly. His reaction left Amanda and the others even more puzzled, but none dared to interrupt.<br /> Moments later, Wesley placed a palm on Quinn's chest, causing all eighteen needles to be shaken off. When all the needles landed on the ground, the part of the skin where the needles had pierced turned dark.<br /> Wesley then dragged Quinn to the edge of the mattress, flipped him over with his head facing downwards, and gave him a firm pat on the back.<br /> Quinn spat out a mouthful of black liquid. When Wesley flipped him back to lie flat, his complexion had regained some color.<br /> "The Hand of Darkness... It's the Hand of Darkness!" Scott exclaimed with excitement, his body quivering, "It's the Hand that descends into the dark world, snatching people from the hands of the Evil!"<br /> "You do have some knowledge, recognizing the Hand of Darkness." Wesley glanced at Scott.<br /> Scott's gaze towards Wesley had undergone a drastic change. He respectfully clasped his hands together.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thirty years ago, I had the honor of attending a teaching conference held by Mr. Vanderbilt. I saw the Hand of Darkness, but my limited aptitude only allowed me to grasp the basics."<br /> "I have been blind and ignorant. I apologize for my earlier offenses. Please forgive me, Mr. Harrington."<br /> The Mr. Vanderbilt Scott referred to was Wesley's teacher, Ulysses Vanderbilt. He generously imparted his skills to others, but the ability to learn depended on one's innate talent.<br /> In this world, few could learn Ulysses' skills.<br /> Scott had been fortunate to receive guidance from Ulysses, which had elevated his medical skills. However, the Hand of Darkness, a miraculous ability, was beyond his comprehension.<br /> Wesley smiled faintly, "Your actions earlier are understandable. I appreciate your words."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you must be an exceptional disciple of Mr. Vanderbilt, possessing unparalleled magnanimity. Impressive," Scott continued.<br /> "Enough with the flattery at your age."<br /> "You are mistaken, Mr. Harrington. Every word I speak is sincere."<br /> Mia, Amanda, and the others stood bewildered by the unfolding situation.<br /> "Mr. Phillips... he... he..." Amanda's words faltered.<br /> Scott turned to the members of the Kingsley family. "Meeting Mr. Harrington was Quinn's luck. His symptoms have been cured by Mr. Harrington. With a few days of rest, he will be fine."<br /> The waste Taylor had previously said was called Mr. Harrington by Scott!<br /> Recalling their previous attitudes, Amanda hurriedly apologized, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> The members of the Kingsley family all apologized in unison, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> Chapter 7 Eight Plates of Noodles<br /> With a faint smile, Wesley remarked, "As family members of a patient, your actions earlier are understandable. There's no need for such formality."<br /> Amanda's perplexity deepened as she thought, "Where is the cowardly waste that Taylor described? This display of magnanimity and breadth is far from it."<br /> Mia, too, felt a shiver of realization, thinking, "No wonder Dad has insisted on my proximity to Wesley.<br /> This guy..."<br /> She gazed at Wesley, her curiosity piqued, a sense of exploration stirring within her.<br /> "Mia has brought you here, Mr. Harrington, to cure my grandfather. The Kingsley family will never forget this act. However, considering that my grandfather's ailment stemmed from the health supplements produced by the Vinver Business Alliance, we will be conducting an investigation into it."<br /> Amanda continued, looking at Wesley, "What do you think... of this approach?"<br /> It was Mia who had invited Wesley, so Amanda had grown wiser, refraining from asking for a direct punishment of the Vinver Business Alliance.<br /> As Mia heard Amanda's words, her heart skipped a beat, realizing trouble was brewing.<br /> "On the way here, Ms. Roberts briefed me on the situation. You conducted experiments on mice, correct?"<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes, the health supplements we received were exclusively provided by the Roberts family. There were no similar cases on the market, so we used mice for testing.<br /> "All the mice that ingested this supplement were gone."<br /> She looked at Mia and added, her voice turned colder. "Before the experiment, I specifically contacted Mia to inquire about the testing methods during the development phase, which involved mice."<br /> "There have been individuals eyeing my grandfather's position, some even wishing for his demise. I never imagined that the Vinver Business Alliance, which I attracted for investment, would become a weapon in someone else's hands."<br /> "Do you have any of the remaining medicine?" Wesley inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes."<br /> "Bring some over."<br /> Immediately, someone fetched the medicine. After it was brought to him, Wesley took out a supplement and swallowed it directly.<br /> This scene left Amanda and the others dumbfounded.<br /> Scott, too, was bewildered. "Mr. Harrington, what are you doing?"<br /> Wesley smiled, "Just proving that this medicine is not toxic."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thank you," Mia thanked sincerely, feeling like sobbing at that moment.<br /> Amanda, with a puzzled expression, looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, are you suggesting that my grandfather's condition wasn't caused by the Vinver Business Alliance's medicine? What about the mice?"<br /> The rest were equally puzzled.<br /> "Yes, but not entirely," Wesley said, leaving everyone even more bewildered.<br /> Mia's emotions were like a rollercoaster ride, from relief to immediate tension.<br /> "This medicine itself is not toxic, but when taken with another substance made from a certain plant, it results in Quinn's condition. The mice would die immediately, while humans could endure a few more days."<br /> Wesley continued to explain, "The plant used in this concoction is originally meant for crafting slow-acting toxins, not for human consumption."<br /> Looking at Amanda, Wesley said, "During this period, whoever had access to your grandfather and the mice will better understand why these events occurred."<br /> The gaze of members of the Kingsley family immediately focused on a lady.<br /> Amanda, somewhat incredulous, looked at her. "Can you offer an explanation?"<br /> The lady was the wife of Amanda's deceased brother. She found it hard to accept, as did the rest of the Kingsley family.<br /> This lady had been named the exemplary lady who served her family well this year, not due to her connection with the Kingsley family but because she genuinely deserved it.<br /> "What do you mean? Amanda, what explanation do you want from me?"<br /> The lady stared at Amanda. "Am I the only one who had access to Grandfather and the mice? You, and you... and you, who didn't have access?"<br /> "You all claim to treat me as family. Since I married into the Kingsley family, I have worked diligently, contributing my share even if not acknowledged."<br /> "Amanda, it has been over a year since your brother passed, and I never once considered remarrying. Now, just because of his words, you demand an explanation from me?"<br /> Pointing at Wesley, the lady questioned, "Just because he accuses me of poisoning, you suspect me? Tell me, did I poison him?" The lady glared at Wesley.<br /> "I am merely analyzing the facts. As for concluding this case, it's not within my purview," Wesley addressed the members of the Kingsley family, saying, "You should conduct a thorough investigation into this matter.<br /> "I will write a prescription. Have Quinn take it on time, and he will recover in seven days."<br /> Amanda hurried to fetch paper and pen while Wesley prepared the prescription. Once done, he was ready to leave.<br /> Amanda said hurriedly, "Mr. Harrington, I've already made arrangements for lunch."<br /> "No need," Wesley smiled.<br /> The Kingsley family sought to build closer ties with Wesley, given his extraordinary medical skills. Wesley was well aware of this.<br /> Looking at Amanda and the others, Wesley remarked, "In the future, if you encounter any difficult medical cases that others cannot solve, seek me out. Remember, cases others cannot solve."<br /> The gaze of the Kingsley family members toward Wesley changed once again. Many renowned healers had eccentric personalities and were difficult to engage.<br /> They hadn't expected Wesley to possess such remarkable medical skills without any airs.<br /> As Wesley prepared to depart, the members of the Kingsley family did not dare to insist on his stay, so they accompanied him outside.<br /> "Oh, how could we forget such an important matter? Amanda, what about the consultation fee?" The middle-aged gent inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the oversight. Please wait a moment." Amanda hurried back inside and soon returned with a bank card in hand.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, there's one million dollars in here."<br /> Without hesitation, Wesley accepted the bank card and boarded Mia's car.<br /> During the journey, Mia boldly looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, you've helped me immensely. Can I treat you to a meal? Don't decline in a hurry. It's not a fancy restaurant, but it will leave you wanting more. It's a small place on the street, with only eight plates of noodles served each day, each plate containing different ingredients."<br /> "I managed to secure a reservation. Are you interested?"<br /> Wesley thought, "Eight Plates of Noodles?<br /> "Ah, Aaron's restaurant. It has been a while since I visited those old friends."<br /> Wesley nodded. "Let's go then."<br /> The restaurant, Eight Plates of Noodles, was located on Chanxold Street near the Yeadeo First Central Hospital.<br /> The establishment was small, serving only eight plates of noodles each day at a price of 10 thousand dollars each. Vernoic's television culinary program had specifically covered this incident.<br /> Reservations were a must to secure a plate.<br /> The restaurant's owner had a mysterious background. While the specifics were unknown, a high-ranking noble from the capital of Vernoic, Kingsland, had caused a scene there once.<br /> He had attempted to force his way in without a reservation. Although this incident hadn't been reported, rumors suggested that a garbage truck had to be called to dispose of the intruder's remains, as he was too shattered to be removed by conventional means.<br /> Since then, no one dared to cause trouble.<br /> On their way, Mia introduced Wesley to the background story.<br /> "Mr. Turner, two plates of noodles." Mia called out once they arrived.<br /> Aaron Turner didn't respond but visibly paused upon seeing Wesley beside Mia.<br /> A faint smile appeared on his usually stoic face. Though the flesh on the face seemed stiff, it was indeed a smile. "Coming right up."<br /> Chapter 8 You Are Blushing<br /> Mia glanced at Aaron with a hint of surprise, thinking, "When does he become so warm and enthusiastic?<br /> His tone seemed a bit agitated earlier, didn't it?"<br /> Soon enough, Aaron brought two plates of noodles to the table. One steaming hot and the other devoid of any warmth.<br /> As Mia observed Aaron placing the plate without steam in front of Wesley, her expression changed slightly.<br /> It was a plate of instant noodles having soaked in cold water, with the seasoning barely dissolved.<br /> She felt a sense of panic. Mia had wanted to leave a good impression on Wesley, which was why she had chosen this place.<br /> However, Aaron had served such a plate of noodles.<br /> She dared not question Aaron. The type of noodles served here was not determined by the guests but by Aaron's mood.<br /> "This lass named Mia is quite something, living up to her name, and quite kind-hearted," Aaron remarked, looking at Wesley.<br /> "Get lost," Wesley retorted, using his fork to pick up the noodles and devouring them.<br /> Mia's face turned pale instantly. Disrespecting Aaron was akin to risking Wesley's life.<br /> To her astonishment, Aaron chuckled, tears welling up in his eyes.<br /> He wiped them away. "Alright, I'll leave you to your meal."<br /> Before departing, he gave Mia a thumbs-up. "Seize the opportunity."<br /> The eight plates of noodles symbolized the eight comrades who had faced life and hardships together.<br /> Wesley ate voraciously. Initially, they had only one pack of instant noodles to share among the eight of them, forcing them to divide it.<br /> Despite the circumstances, they devoured the noodles joyfully.<br /> Aaron had promised that once they survived, each one would have the most delicious plate of noodles.<br /> However, five of the eight had perished.<br /> Wesley had come dangerously close to life-threatening situations, but managed to cling to life.<br /> For him, the plate of noodles was not food but the bond of friendship that had shielded him from harm.<br /> "Do you... know each other?" Mia couldn't help but ask, her voice low and curious.<br /> "Some things are better left unknown," Wesley replied.<br /> Mia nodded in understanding, falling silent as they continued eating noodles. She couldn't help stealing glances at Wesley throughout the meal.<br /> This gent had piqued her curiosity even more.<br /> "Wesley, I see. No wonder you agreed to the divorce so readily. You've already found someone else outside."<br /> A sharp voice interrupted their meal.<br /> Taylor approached with a cold expression, accompanied by Henry.<br /> Taylor's mother was in the nearby hospital, and she had just picked up Frank, planning to buy some food when she unexpectedly saw Wesley.<br /> Of course, she saw Mia, too.<br /> Seeing Wesley dining with a lady more attractive than herself, so soon after the divorce felt like a dagger twisting in Taylor's heart.<br /> Her anger was uncontrollable.<br /> Wesley merely glanced at Taylor, disinterested in engaging with her.<br /> Taylor was stung by his indifferent gaze. She stepped forward, glaring at Wesley. "Are you not going to explain to me?"<br /> Mia looked at Taylor, silently cursing her as a foolish lady.<br /> Wesley continued eating his noodles, lowering his head. "Get lost. Don't disturb me, or I won't hesitate to hit you."<br /> "What did you say?" Henry stepped forward, enraged. "Wesley, try laying a hand on her! Is that all you're capable of? Laying hands on ladies?"<br /> "No wonder Taylor looks down on you. You're truly disgusting trash. Apologize to Taylor now, or else you'll regret coming into this world."<br /> "And how will he regret it? Tell me." Aaron emerged, carrying a cleaver, smiling as he faced Henry and Taylor.<br /> "Mr. Turner, we dare not cause trouble in your place, but this guy is just..."<br /> Henry attempted to speak but was cut off as Aaron's cleaver struck his face, sending him sprawling to the ground.<br /> "Mr. Turner, sorry, we'll leave now." Taylor hastily helped Henry up and hurriedly left.<br /> These two individuals were fortunate to know the legendary story behind Eight Plates of Noodles and had successfully made reservations to dine here multiple times.<br /> Having distanced themselves a bit, Henry covered his face and pointed at Wesley. "Wesley, we have some unfinished business. If you're smart, come over here now and apologize."<br /> "Wesley, I've seen through you as well. I never expected that for the past five years, you've been using my money to keep a lady on the side. We'll settle the score slowly."<br /> As the two noticed Aaron glancing their way, they quickly shut their mouths and hurriedly left.<br /> Once they were out of eyeshots, Aaron fixed his gaze on Wesley. "Your dad doesn't know about your divorce yet, does he?"<br /> "What difference would it make if he did?" Wesley stretched lazily. "I've fulfilled my promise. I've given enough."<br /> Aaron nodded in acknowledgment without saying anything further.<br /> This piqued Mia's curiosity even more. "Is it like what the novels depict? Did you marry Taylor due to some special event?"<br /> Seeing Wesley's glare, Mia lowered her head to focus on her noodles. "I won't ask anymore."<br /> "For the past five years, you've been staying in the stairwell. It has been hard for you, but at least you're still untouched," Aaron remarked before swiftly departing.<br /> Mia stared at Wesley in disbelief, realizing that Aaron's words were meant for her ears.<br /> "What are you staring at? Eat your noodles," Wesley said. Mia chuckled.<br /> "Why are you laughing?"<br /> "You're blushing."<br /> "Nonsense," Wesley retorted.<br /> Unable to contain herself, Mia burst into laughter. She had tried to hold it in, but seeing Wesley's flushed face made it impossible.<br /> Ten minutes later, Mia left on her own accord, sensing that Wesley had something to discuss with Aaron.<br /> Inside Aaron's small shop, Wesley opened a bottle of wine. "Still single?"<br /> "I look too old, no one's interested," Aaron replied, opening a bottle of liquor as well.<br /> "Then why are you meddling in my love lives?"<br /> "Leave a child behind, even if you pass away, someone will remember you." Aaron took a sip. "I've actually investigated this Mia."<br /> "You investigated her?"<br /> "I knew you'd get a divorce. I've been keeping an eye on the pretty ones. This girl had done a lot of good deeds before coming to Yeadeo. Once, she saved three people in a flood and nearly lost her life. Opportunities are rare. You have to seize them."<br /> "When you've figured things out and are ready to marry, then we can discuss our affairs. That's the condition." Wesley downed the entire bottle of liquor.<br /> "Otherwise, don't bother meddling. We're on a one-way path and can't drag others along."<br /> "You..." Aaron sighed as he watched Wesley's retreating figure.<br /> On the road leading to the Feidgeuo Manor, Taylor stood gazing blankly at the entrance not far away.<br /> Twice in one day, she had come here.<br /> The first time was to pick up Frank, and this time was because Frank had lost his expensive watch. She and Henry hadn't even had a meal, rushing over to find it.<br /> The first time, she had come in a hurry when Frank was injured and left quickly as well.<br /> But this time, as Taylor looked at the entrance ahead, an infinite longing sprouted within her.<br /> "If only... I could live here, how wonderful that would be."<br /> Henry looked at her. "One day, I'll definitely build an estate more magnificent than this, and you'll be the lady of the house."<br /> As they conversed, a taxi drove by, stopping at the entrance. The person who got out of the taxi left Taylor stunned.<br /> She rubbed her eyes. | Adoread | 478 | https://facebook.com/61556400142540 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713682800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846803 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446611 | 1735168080 | 890 | 1426859107917810 | 4 | 1.0750287970217E+15 | 1715065200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120206467056180695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1712240564 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434887251_3273516259616813_4965928032027185860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ITie4m6mDmcQ7kNvgF39Sy7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAcTA20T57nzysouEuK_o7pZp3Y0XqyL2fgucP3yDHGEg&oe=6663EDC2 | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434948003_814909497119687_9211098532922127326_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x7WiDOdWsTYQ7kNvgESVFnJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBulFosd9SXN4G0tMRKNSznqK_fnZdYowVwZ6iongagTg&oe=66640C13 | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846709 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446607 | 1735168081 | 890 | 700752415368625 | 3 | 7.7096681837594E+14 | 1713769200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 226177680578601 | 0 | Adoread | 120207811548930265 | client.adoread.com | Learn more | NONE | image | 🔥🔥🔥 Read More👉 | Hottest novel👉👉👉 | https://client.adoread.com/book/loading/page/adoread/19161308412?utm_campaign={{campaign.id}}&utm_content={{campaign.name}} | 1713710194 | 2.261776805786E+14 | Adoread | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437607258_1159916378688199_4518339552377818328_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1E2W71zInGIQ7kNvgEsc8Oh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCPonf0c8oEtdPcdy2hOY7JkaZOSFhLfH2TA__WlBZChA&oe=6663E160 | person_profile | 0 | Adoread | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437554888_1569151020292567_2410505486774402524_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z61yiijnoqcQ7kNvgG7xyHJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBi6OIdYHYeLdGsuL4FQSZ35nRGc0nOrReV0Y7k4ntifw&oe=666412A5 | 0 | 3 | "Wesley, are you trying to harm me? You useless piece of trash, can't even make a decent cup of coffee, can you?"<br /> Madison Blair lifted her coffee cup and splashed it directly onto Wesley Harrington's face.<br /> "What are you looking at, you spineless waste? Your name sounds so lofty? I might as well call you a waste."<br /> Glancing at the grotesque expression of his wife's mother, Wesley pulled out his phone to check the time.<br /> Exactly twelve o'clock. It had been five full years since he married Taylor Reed.<br /> The appointed time had come.<br /> He had fulfilled his promise, safeguarding the Reed family for five years, transforming them from a family living off fishing to one perceived as affluent by the common folk.<br /> Wiping the coffee off his face, he turned and walked away.<br /> "Where do you think you're going? Go fetch some more coffee," Madison shouted.<br /> "Madison, didn't you say this waste is obedient at home, doing whatever he's told? I don't think he's taking it lying down."<br /> Madison grew angrier. "Wesley, you stop right there. My family has fed and housed you. If you dare disobey, I'll have you thrown out!"<br /> Ignoring her, Wesley continued downstairs.<br /> "When Taylor comes back, I'll immediately have you two divorced. Do you hear me? Stay right there," Madison threatened, "I'll let you know your place today."<br /> Grabbing a golf club, Madison swiftly charged towards Wesley.<br /> Seeing Wesley heading downstairs, she swung the club viciously at his back.<br /> Without turning back, Wesley gently sidestepped.<br /> Losing her balance, Madison tumbled forward, rolling down the stairs with a series of thumps.<br /> "Ouch... it hurts, it hurts so much!"<br /> As Madison reached the ground floor, she wailed in pain and her sister immediately rushed to her.<br /> "Wesley, what have you done? How dare you hit my sister!" Madison's sister hurried down, checking on Madison's condition.<br /> Wesley remained silent, observing the scene.<br /> "Quick, call Taylor. Tell her to come back. Today, she must divorce this waste." Madison glared at Wesley. "How dare you hit me? Not only will I let Taylor divorce you, but I'll make sure you leave in disgrace."<br /> "Mum, what's wrong?" At that moment, a gent and a lady walked in.<br /> The lady was Taylor, Madison's daughter.<br /> She ran towards Madison.<br /> As Madison pointed at Wesley, tears streamed down her face. "Taylor, he hit me, he hit me! When you're not home, he changes his attitude, scolding and hitting me in the slightest displeasure. He even pushed me down the stairs just now. Alexis can testify."<br /> Madison's sister, Alexis Blair, chimed in. "Yes, Wesley, this trash not only hit your mother but also threatened to hit me too. We cannot tolerate such trash."<br /> "Taylor, I have been telling you to divorce him for years. You've been supporting him, treating him like a Lord at home, but he's an ungrateful wolf in sheep's clothing."<br /> Helping Madison up, Taylor noticed the scrapes on Madison's arms and legs, her expression turning cold.<br /> "Wesley, why did you hit my mother? You better give me an explanation."<br /> Wesley looked at Taylor, his wife.<br /> Five years had passed, and she had never shown him kindness.<br /> Taylor dressed impeccably, a paragon of a successful lady, with a face that could be deemed angelic, yet whether her heart was as angelic remained a mystery.<br /> Her figure, too, left countless men yearning.<br /> For five years, Wesley had thought he might develop feelings for this lady, but in reality, it never happened.<br /> "There are surveillance cameras in the house," Wesley stated calmly before descending the stairs into the hallway.<br /> Despite residing in a three-story villa, Wesley's living quarters were confined to the stairwell.<br /> He harbored no resentment towards this arrangement. It was merely a promise. It was just that Taylor failed to appreciate him.<br /> This home held little value that he wished to cling onto.<br /> Retrieving a wooden box from beneath his pillow, Wesley extracted two documents. Casting a fleeting glance at the modest abode he had called home for five years, Wesley smiled faintly.<br /> He thought, "Finally... I'm free."<br /> Pushing the door ajar, Wesley was met by Taylor's piercing gaze. "I've reviewed the surveillance footage. Yes, my mother intended to strike you, but even if she did, what difference would it make?"<br /> "She's a lady. How much could her blows hurt you? Why did you dodge?"<br /> "If you hadn't dodged, my mother wouldn't have tumbled down." Wesley stared at Taylor, unable to comprehend her thought process.<br /> He had no interest in engaging in these arguments. Handing over the two documents to Taylor, he remarked, "The divorce agreement. I've already signed it. Take a look. I'm leaving with nothing."<br /> "With your current influence, there's no need for you to visit the city hall. Someone will handle it for you, right?"<br /> Madison was taken aback. She swiftly snatched the divorce agreement, flipping through it hastily.<br /> The contents were indeed straightforward. Both parties willingly divorced, with Wesley relinquishing all claims and having already signed.<br /> In an instant, Madison's pain seemed to dissipate. "Taylor, sign it quickly. Sign it."<br /> Taylor was still in a daze.<br /> She pondered.<br /> "A divorce agreement? Wesley has already prepared a divorce agreement. On what grounds?"<br /> "What gives him the right to initiate a divorce? All these years, he's done nothing at home, lacking any ambition. Always practicing martial arts, what right does he have to seek a divorce?"<br /> "If anyone should initiate it, it should be me. Moreover, now that I'm back to discussing this matter with him. Could it be that word got out, and Wesley, for the sake of his pride, rushed to prepare a divorce agreement first?"<br /> "It must be so, but... No!"<br /> "Wanting to leave with nothing, is he retreating to advance? As the chairman of the Reed Group, how could I be served with a divorce?"<br /> "Hey Wesley, I never expected this from you. Have I not treated you well enough? You seek a divorce, attempting to turn your retreat into advance, aiming to embarrass me?"<br /> Taylor glared at Wesley. "I'm telling you, it's impossible."<br /> Snatching the divorce agreement, she tore it to shreds.<br /> "Taylor, what are you doing? Such a great opportunity. Why not just sign it and let him leave?" Madison grew anxious.<br /> "Mom, I do intend to divorce this trash, but the decision must come from me. I returned specifically to address this matter."<br /> With that, Taylor produced two documents. "Wesley, remember that it's me who's divorcing you. It's me who no longer wants you. Initially, out of marital obligation, I had considered offering you some compensation. Now, you don't even need to think about it. Sign the divorce agreement and leave my home."<br /> Wesley offered a faint smile as he accepted the divorce agreement.<br /> "What are you laughing at?" Taylor demanded angrily.<br /> Wesley's smile seemed to mock her, fueling her rage.<br /> Ignoring her entirely, Wesley signed the document and handed it over.<br /> "What are you laughing at? Answer me! Who do you think you are?" Taylor roared once more.<br /> Wesley glanced at her before striding towards the exit.<br /> "Stop!" The gent who had accompanied Taylor stepped forward, blocking Wesley's path. "Taylor asked you a question, and... Your previous attitude displeased me. Apologize to Taylor, or I'll have you leave in disgrace!"<br /> Chapter 2 The Unspoken Truth<br /> <br /> "Yes, let him leave in disgrace. He thought he could just hit me and walk away so easily," Madison joined in the commotion, also noticing the gent blocking Wesley's path.<br /> Madison had a keen interest in luxury goods, having frequented various high-end establishments over the years as the Reed family's living conditions improved. The gent was wearing an expensive watch and dressed head to toe in high-end luxury brands.<br /> Seeing Madison's gaze, the gent spoke. "Rest assured, today Wesley must pay the price."<br /> The gent introduced himself, looking at Wesley, "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Henry Clark, the eldest son of the Clark family and the general manager of the Clark Group in the North District."<br /> "From now on, I will accompany Taylor on her journey of life, and I will not allow anyone to bully her."<br /> "My identity carries weight. You should understand that. Now, apologize to Taylor. Apologize! Did you hear me? Apologize!"<br /> Madison's eyes lit up. She hadn't expected the gent before her to hold such a high status. She continued to shout, "Did you hear that? Taylor will be with Mr. Clark from now on. Apologize now."<br /> Wesley glanced at Henry, then at Taylor. He thought, "Have they been together all along?" Wesley had wanted to ask but decided against it because there was no need. He simply gave them a glance and continued walking towards the exit.<br /> "Are you ignoring me?" Henry's face turned cold as he reached out to grab Wesley. Henry's hand froze mid-air as he received a solid hit.<br /> "Until I sign the divorce papers, Taylor and I are still wife and husband. I don't care to investigate whether you two had any intimate relationship during that time, but don't provoke me, or I won't hesitate to make you regret it." Wesley's gaze was icy, and as Henry met his eyes, he felt a twinge of fear and swallowed his words.<br /> Taylor was also stunned. She knew exactly what Wesley had been like over the past five years. There were many surveillance cameras in the house, and she would often check them.<br /> Even when Taylor wasn't home, despite how her family treated Wesley, he always obeyed without complaint, especially towards her. He had never raised his voice, no matter how they treated him.<br /> Today, not only did Wesley dodge when her mother struck, but he also initiated the divorce and now even struck Henry. <br /> Taylor was at a loss for words, thinking, "How could this cowardly gent dare? On what grounds does he dare?"<br /> This change was difficult for Taylor to accept as if she didn't truly understand this guy. The gent who used to be obedient to her, completely submissive, now revealed this side of himself. She watched Wesley walk away in a daze, feeling a strange discomfort in her heart.<br /> "Isn't he leaving with nothing?" Alexis pointed at the wooden box Wesley was holding. "What is he taking with him?"<br /> Madison also realized. Over the past five years, Wesley had always treasured this wooden box, carrying it with him wherever he went. She thought there must be something valuable inside.<br /> Realizing this, Madison hurriedly followed. "Wesley, stop right there, leave the wooden box."<br /> Wesley paused, glanced at Madison, and said, "This is my personal belonging."<br /> "Nonsense, what personal belonging could you possibly have after marrying into the Reed family? Everything you've eaten, worn, and lived in over the years has been provided by the Reed family. Put it down."<br /> As she spoke, Madison reached out to grab the wooden box.<br /> "Ah..." A scream rang out as Madison quickly retracted her hand, a gash appearing on her palm, a crimson liquid dripping.<br /> The wooden box was now stained with the same crimson liquid, trembling lightly in Wesley's hand.<br /> "It's not the right time yet, the day you thirst for this crimson liquid will come," Wesley murmured softly, patting the box before turning to continue his stride towards the exit.<br /> "Monster! A monster!" Madison screamed, causing Taylor and the others to rush out. Seeing the wound in Madison's hand, Taylor was filled with rage.<br /> "Wesley, aren't you going to say something?" Wesley halted once more, contemplating before meeting Taylor's gaze.<br /> "Just stay out of my way from now on. Consider this a warning to you."<br /> "Taylor, that wooden box of his has a mechanism. It must hold something valuable! We can't let him take it with him," Madison, enduring the pain, reminded them.<br /> "Mom, your injury is important. We'll deal with him later. Let me take you to the hospital first." Taylor comforted Madison before calling out to the retreating Wesley.<br /> "Our marriage is over! Yet, you dared to hurt my mother! This won't be the end of it! I will make you regret it!" Ignoring her, Wesley continued walking out.<br /> "Rest assured, I promise he won't see the light of day tomorrow." Henry stepped forward to console. "Let's focus on getting your wound treated first."<br /> "I want him to regret ever existing in this world, to apologize to me in repentance," Madison roared.<br /> "Mom, trust me, I will make him do just that." Taylor looked at Madison with a mix of pity and determination. "Let's go to the hospital first."<br /> In the villa area, Wesley halted, his voice cold. "Get out."<br /> An elderly gent leaped down from a tree, appearing to be in his seventies, yet landing silently from a height of around ten feet.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, your father wants you to come home and take charge."<br /> "He stopped being my father five years ago. He's my enemy."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you misunderstood your father. He had his reasons back then. I swear in my life, once you know the truth, you will forgive him."<br /> "Huh!" Wesley smirked coldly, saying, "I nearly passed away back then. Is that also a misunderstanding?"<br /> The old gent pleaded, "Mr. Harrington, this situation is truly not as you perceive it."<br /> Wesley didn't engage further with the old guy. The events of that year were etched in his memory forever. He was the one who had been abandoned. If not for that incident, why would he have stayed with the Reed family for five years?<br /> Watching Wesley walk away, the old gent had tears silently streaming down his face. "Mr. Harrington, I truly... I truly can't bring myself to speak the truth, but you have misunderstood your father. He also bears burdens and endures pains beyond what an ordinary person can handle."<br /> As Wesley's figure disappeared, the old gent stood up, hesitated for a moment, then dialed a number on his phone.<br /> "Mr. Harrington is now divorced. I've given you the news firsthand. If your daughter is truly together with Mr. Harrington, you must fulfill the promise and let her persuade Mr. Harrington to come home."<br /> After hanging up, a middle-aged gent in a luxurious estate jumped up excitedly. Calming himself, he immediately made another call. "My dear, you're at Yeadeo, right?<br /> "Go find Wesley now. Don't mention the engagement for now. Use every means to get close to him, make him fall in love with you."<br /> "Dad, I don't have time."<br /> "No matter what you are busy with, you must go find Wesley now. No matter what reason you approach him, you must leave a good impression the first time."<br /> "Dad, I'm in trouble right now. If I don't handle it well, I might be good as gone. I have to deal with it immediately. I'm hanging up."<br /> Chapter 3 You're Nothing<br /> The middle-aged gent's voice lowered significantly. "Is there a big incident happening? You didn't tell me? What happened?"<br /> "Quinn Kingsley from Yeadeo, Mr. Kingsley, used our product and now has one foot on the grave. If something really happens to him..."<br /> "You mean Quinn, the uncontested leader of Yeadeo?"<br /> "Yes."<br /> "In that case, you should go find Wesley. Trust me, in this world, there is no problem that Wesley can't solve. As long as he's willing to help, you'll be fine. Listen to me, go find Wesley immediately."<br /> The lady fell silent for a moment before saying, "Okay."<br /> At Yeadeo Harbor, a gent with a large flaxen chain and a watch, sporting a crew cut, hurriedly disembarked, accompanied by a dozen gentlemen.<br /> "Mr. Reed, wherever that trash is, we will find him and tear him apart."<br /> "Yes, that guy dared to harm your mother. We'll make sure he pays for it."<br /> Frank Reed's face turned cold. "Wesley, you coward, thinking you can overturn the world? How dare you touch my mom? Just wait until I find you, you're finished."<br /> "We've found him. Wesley got into a taxi, and our boys followed him."<br /> "Let's go!" Frank waved his hand, leading dozens of men who boarded the car with harpoons, steel pipes, and other weapons.<br /> Inside the taxi, Wesley gazed at the scenery outside, feeling a strange sense of tranquility.<br /> He thought to himself, "I never imagined that while I was secretly paving the way for the Reed family, Taylor, after progressing so rapidly, would start looking down on me more and more."<br /> "Those ladies who know my true identity, which one of them isn't trying to throw themselves at me? Ladies like that don't interest me."<br /> "Being an ordinary gent is truly difficult," Wesley murmured, smiling faintly and deciding not to dwell on these matters anymore. He had important things to attend to and no time to waste on personal affairs.<br /> "Young lad, are you going to Feidgeuo Manor for a job interview?" The driver, curious about Wesley's destination, inquired.<br /> Feidgeuo Manor was Yeadeo's most mysterious private area. Originally a villa area, it was bought at a huge cost five years ago and completely renovated. It was said to have cost a trillion dollars. The former villa area was now Feidgeuo Manor.<br /> "That's my home," Wesley replied nonchalantly.<br /> The driver was taken aback by this revelation, silently cursing Wesley for bragging. After a couple of minutes, the driver regained his composure. "It seems like you and I both prefer to keep a low profile. My car usually gathers dust at home, so I occasionally drive a taxi to experience life."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "My car has been driven by my assistant for the past few years, so it's not gathering dust."<br /> "Haha..." The driver laughed. "We should get together sometime and see whose car is more impressive."<br /> "Sure, whenever we have the time."<br /> As they chatted, the vehicle soon arrived near Feidgeuo Manor, where the massive head of the Feidgeuo Peak protruded, creating a unique landscape in Yeadeo.<br /> The driver asked with a smile, "Since you're the owner here, it's fine if I drive in, right?"<br /> "Of course," Wesley replied.<br /> As soon as Wesley spoke, several cars caught up from behind.<br /> The cars surrounded the one Wesley was in, with the front vehicles braking to force the car to a stop.<br /> When numerous people descended from cars wielding harpoons and steel pipes, the driver's face paled.<br /> Frank and his group got out of the cars, instantly closing in, and without hesitation, started attacking, the steel pipes and harpoons thudding against the car.<br /> Frank's henchman yanked open the door of Wesley's car, poised to stab Wesley with a harpoon, but Wesley swiftly exited the vehicle.<br /> With a firm step on the ground, he launched a swift hit.<br /> A muffled sound echoed as the henchman was hit away.<br /> "What are you looking at?" Frank noticed his henchmen were all staring at him. "All of you, attack together and take him down!"<br /> As he commanded, the henchmen Frank brought with him surged forward.<br /> The taxi driver, trembling, took out his phone to call the police, but Frank glared at him. "I am Frank Reed from Yeadeo Harbor. If you dare, go ahead and make that call."<br /> Frank, leveraging his sister Taylor's status, had been causing trouble in Yeadeo Harbor, and no one dared to provoke him.<br /> Upon hearing Frank's name, the driver hastily put away his phone. "Mr. Reed, I'll just check the time, you guys continue."<br /> "Huh!" Frank snorted coldly, casting his gaze towards the surrounded Wesley.<br /> The sounds of thuds continued to ring out incessantly. Because Wesley was completely surrounded, Frank was unable to see the situation inside clearly, but he could imagine it. After all, in Frank's mind, the henchmen under his command were not to be trifled with.<br /> "Hit him hard for me!"<br /> Another muffled sound and a figure flew out. At that moment, Frank finally saw the situation clearly, and his face turned pale.<br /> Frank knew that Wesley liked to practice martial arts, but he had never expected Wesley to be this skilled. It wasn't Wesley who had been beaten, but his own men by Wesley alone.<br /> Frantically, Frank turned and ran to retrieve a crossbow from the car.<br /> "Clear the way." Frank bellowed, aiming the crossbow at Wesley.<br /> "You scumbag, you think you can fight? Move one more time, and I'll end your life! Surrender!"<br /> Wesley, holding a wooden box, stared at Frank. Ignoring the crossbow in his hand, Wesley said, "Tell your henchmen to back off, or you'll all see the light from above!"<br /> "You're really good at pretending to be tough." Frank took two steps forward. "See the light? Move a muscle and see if I can end your life or not! If you don't have the guts, apologize now!"<br /> Wesley turned his head and looked at the approaching cars, with two expensive ones in the lead, two more in the rear, and another one in the middle.<br /> "Keep acting tough, and I'll put a hole in your head." Frank spoke while glancing at the five cars. "What, looking for help?"<br /> "Let me tell you, those who ride in these cars are not the kind of weaklings like you who rely on connections. With me here, in Yeadeo's social hierarchy, even those who ride in such cars wouldn't dare meddle in this matter. And let me make it clear, without my sister, you're nothing."<br /> Chapter 4 Is He Worthy?<br /> As Frank's words faded, the five cars came to a halt.<br /> A bodyguard opened the door of the one in the middle, revealing a dazzling pair of shining shoes catching everyone's eye.<br /> The shining shoe encased a beautiful foot. Above, the skirt's hem was adorned with lace.<br /> Then, like a fairy stepping out of a painting, she appeared before everyone's eyes.<br /> The lady was beautiful!<br /> Frank was mesmerized. Ever since the Reed family rose to prominence, he had been surrounded by ladies, but compared to the elegant lady before him, they were worlds apart.<br /> It wasn't just a difference in appearance but an incomparable gap in demeanor.<br /> The lady descending from the Maybach seemed like a celestial being untouched by mortal affairs.<br /> The embodiment of a fairy in the mundane world.<br /> She simply stood there after getting out of the car, perfectly embodying what it meant to be graceful and elegant.<br /> The lady glanced at Wesley, then at Frank.<br /> Frank grinned, saying, "May I have the honor of knowing the name of this esteemed lady? I am Frank..."<br /> The lady spoke calmly. "Disrespect Mr. Harrington, and you're done for."<br /> Her bodyguards, unfazed by Frank's crossbow, swiftly overwhelmed him, sending him crashing to the ground.<br /> The henchmen who had come with Frank, previously defeated by Wesley, now scrambled to their feet and fled in all directions.<br /> Who would dare provoke someone who could afford such a car?<br /> "My sister is Taylor Reed, the chairperson of Reed Group," Frank shouted, clutching his head.<br /> Ignoring him, one of the bodyguards dragged him to the roadside grass while another used a belt to tighten around Frank's neck, exerting pressure.<br /> "Enough, a lesson is all that's needed." Wesley spoke calmly, and only when the lady gestured did the bodyguards release Frank.<br /> Frank lay there, already unconscious.<br /> Wesley turned to the lady. "Who are you?"<br /> "I am Mia Roberts, the general manager of Vinver Business Alliance's Yeadeo branch." She looked at Wesley and continued, "Mr. Harrington, my father mentioned that you have miraculous healing skills and earnestly requested your assistance. A generous reward awaits."<br /> Wesley furrowed his brow slightly, thinking, "There are indeed people who recognize my abilities and status, yet I've rarely intervened in the past five years. Today, shortly after I divorced Taylor, she is here. Whose arrangement is this?"<br /> "Mr. Harrington, my father also mentioned that you are benevolent and has raised the banner of compassion among healers, serving as a role model and benchmark for all in the medical field."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "You have a way with words. Tell me the specifics."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, please get in the car first. I will explain in detail on the way."<br /> The phrase "compassionate healer" held significant weight for Wesley, who had saved countless lives from the brink of death.<br /> Without further ado, he got into the car.<br /> Inside, after Mia brewed coffee for Wesley, she began. "Vinver Business Alliance has a wide range of business operations, and I mainly oversee the health supplement sector, which has seen some success in recent years.<br /> "Recently, Quinn Kingsley started using our medicines, and now there's an accident."<br /> As she spoke, Mia kept her gaze fixed on Wesley.<br /> Quinn, the undisputed leader of Yeadeo, was a figure of immense influence.<br /> Upon hearing this name, Wesley showed no particular reaction. "If the city's leader faces issues with your products, it is indeed a concern. Let's go and see."<br /> With just a sentence, Wesley leaned back in his seat, closing his eyes to rest.<br /> Mia was secretly alarmed, thinking, "He knows who Quinn is, yet he seems indifferent. Who is this Wesley, really? No wonder Dad has instructed me to find a way to win his favor." Mia's inner resistance toward Wesley quietly shifted.<br /> Wesley had piqued her curiosity.<br /> As the vehicle was moving, Wesley's phone rang.<br /> Wesley opened his eyes and took out his phone to see Taylor calling.<br /> Pressing the answer button, he asked, "What's the matter?"<br /> On the other end of the line, Taylor, driving towards Feidgeuo Manor, had a grim expression.<br /> She thought, "Has Wesley ever spoken to me in such a cold tone before? Is he really this heartless right after our divorce?"<br /> Already furious, she snapped. "Wesley, do you even consider yourself a human being?<br /> "Today, not only did you lay hands on my mother, but you also had someone attack my brother. Do you not remember our past at all?"<br /> Wesley calmly replied, "Do we have a past to remember?"<br /> "You truly are a heartless scumbag, just as my mother said. You are an ungrateful and vicious person I raised for five years. Even a pet would wag its tail at me!"<br /> Taylor wanted to continue her tirade, but the phone line had already turned busy.<br /> This only fueled her anger further.<br /> Just now, she had received a call from Frank's underlings, informing her that Wesley had sent people to attack Frank and even intended to end him.<br /> Taylor wanted to demand answers, but...<br /> As Taylor was clutching her fists, her gaze turned icy.<br /> After a moment, she picked up her phone again. "Wesley, you are so narrow-minded. You have no ambition. Any lady would steer clear of you."<br /> "Just because I dumped you, you are doing this on purpose to make me feel sick. Pretending to be aloof and seeking revenge? Do you even deserve it?"<br /> "In Yeadeo, squashing you would be as easy as squashing an ant. You're asking for it! If anything happens to my brother, I will make you wish you were ending!"<br /> Her furious voice message echoed in the car.<br /> Wesley chuckled and put away his phone.<br /> Beside him, Mia seemed contemplative. Before coming, she had already ordered a swift investigation into Wesley.<br /> She was curious, thinking, "How could someone valued by my father could be the one 'marrying into' the Reed family."<br /> Being tactful, Mia chose not to ask and pretended not to have heard.<br /> After about forty minutes, they arrived at the Kingsley Manor.<br /> The Kingsley family members, upon seeing Mia alight from the car, all wore grim expressions.<br /> Mia greeted them with a smile, "Everyone, this is Wesley Harrington, Mr. Harrington, the miraculous healer I specially invited to treat Mr. Kingsley."<br /> "Him? The gent who married into the Reed family?"<br /> "A miraculous healer? Is he even worthy? Are healers so worthless now?"<br /> "A useless gent who mooches off of the Reed family? How dare he call himself a miraculous healer? Truly a joke among all jokes."<br /> Chapter 5 Compassionate Healer<br /> Amanda Kingsley, Quinn's granddaughter, stared coldly at Wesley and Mia.<br /> This lady, dressed in a smart suit, also held significant fame in Yeadeo, overseeing the region's business activities, including investment attraction and various local business negotiations.<br /> Amanda had a favorable view of Taylor, who had risen swiftly in recent times, and they had interacted frequently.<br /> She was aware of Wesley's existence and had advised Taylor to part ways with him early on.<br /> But Amanda never imagined that Mia would bring someone like Wesley, a complete waste, and claim he was a miraculous healer.<br /> Glaring at Mia, she said, "Mia, once my grandfather is well, it's best for your Roberts family to leave Yeadeo."<br /> "As for you..." She glanced at Wesley. "I will advise Taylor to divorce you. You have deceived Taylor's feelings and now shamelessly made your way into my family. You are a despicable creature."<br /> After reprimanding Mia and Wesley, she turned to an elderly gent beside her, and her tone and attitude completely changed. "Mr. Phillips, sorry to trouble you. My grandfather is inside, please."<br /> Mia looked at the elderly gent, who was already in his twilight years, feeling deeply shocked.<br /> Scott Phillips, the 38th generation heir of the Healing Clinic, was now ninety-two years old.<br /> Renowned as a miraculous healer, he was a respected figure in the medical community of Yeadeo and even nationally.<br /> He no longer conducted consultations personally due to his old age. Mia had visited him specifically to pay her respects once she had arrived in Yeadeo but had not met Scott.<br /> She never expected Scott to appear in person. It was understandable, as Quinn held a prominent position in the city. Despite the profound influence of the Phillips family, they still had to show respect to Quinn.<br /> Mia looked at Wesley, feeling conflicted and thinking, "Dad has confidently claimed that Wesley has extraordinary abilities, but does he really?"<br /> She harbored doubts, but out of propriety, Mia spoke. "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the trouble."<br /> Wesley smiled, "It's fine. As long as the person can be healed."<br /> His open-mindedness impressed Mia.<br /> After about half an hour, Amanda emerged from the room. All eyes instantly turned towards her.<br /> It was evident that Amanda had wailed out, with traces of tears still visible.<br /> "Amanda, how is it?" A middle-aged gent anxiously asked her.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family who had rushed back also focused their attention on her.<br /> "Mr. Phillips said that there's little hope of recovery. He could only use acupuncture to wake grandfather for half an hour. When grandfather wakes up, let's all go in and see if he has any final instructions."<br /> Everyone was shocked.<br /> "How could this be?"<br /> "Is Mr. Phillips also helpless?"<br /> The members of the Kingsley family found it hard to accept this reality, especially since Quinn had always treated his juniors well.<br /> The thought of Quinn departing saddened some, and tears silently fell.<br /> Publicly, Quinn's status was the foundation of the Kingsley family's prominence in Yeadeo.<br /> If Quinn were to pass away, the Kingsley family would undoubtedly decline.<br /> The atmosphere within the Kingsley family was somber.<br /> Amanda looked at her family members, opened her mouth, but said nothing, silently turning back into the room.<br /> "Stop crying," A middle-aged gent said sternly, "Dad wouldn't want to see you all in tears. If he's really leaving, we mustn't let him worry about us. Pull yourselves together."<br /> After these words, the middle-aged gent also entered the room.<br /> The younger members of the Kingsley family wiped their tears vigorously, trying to force smiles, but in truth, they looked better at crying than pretending to be happy.<br /> Mia's spirit plummeted as she realized the gravity of the situation. Even if an ordinary person passed away from consuming health supplements, it spelled big trouble for those who sold them. And when the deceased happened to be Quinn, the stakes were even higher.<br /> She understood that it would be difficult for this branch to stay in Yeadeo, and even the headquarters might face repercussions.<br /> "Let's go in and have a look." Wesley glanced at Mia. "There might still be a chance."<br /> "Ah..." Mia stared at Wesley in surprise. Seeing him already heading towards the room, she quickly followed suit.<br /> Inside the room, the members of the Kingsley family stood around the mattress, maintaining a certain distance.<br /> Scott lit the alcohol lamp and took out the needles, his expression solemn.<br /> He looked at the members of the Kingsley family. "Think about what you want to say to Mr. Kingsley later. Once you're ready, let me know, and then I'll proceed with the acupuncture."<br /> As he said this, tears welled up in many eyes.<br /> "If you don't mind, let me take a look. I have a way." Wesley spoke up, drawing everyone's attention.<br /> Amanda's face darkened. "Who let you in? Get out!"<br /> "Mia, have you lost your mind? Tricked by this trash and actually brought him here as a miracle healer. Get out with him! I'll settle the score with you in a couple of days."<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, at a loss for words.<br /> "Even Mr. Phillips is unable to reverse the situation. What use are you? Get out." Another younger member of the Kingsley family angrily rebuked.<br /> The middle-aged gent added, "We're in no mood right now. You better leave immediately."<br /> "I understand your narrow-mindedness," Wesley continued, "But as a healer, once I see a patient, I cannot stand by and watch him draw his last breath."<br /> "Wesley, you're quite the charlatan. Do you really want to be gone right now?" Amanda's voice was filled with anger.<br /> "Amanda, let me say a few words," Scott interjected, and Amanda fell silent.<br /> Looking at Wesley, Scott began. "Young lad, at my age, I've seen a lot and have a broad perspective. Today, however, I find it hard to remain indifferent. I practiced medicine from the age of sixteen until I stopped seeing patients for a total of seventy years."<br /> "I've saved countless patients from various illnesses. I never easily declare a patient's fate, nor do I believe I have the right to do so."<br /> "But from your recent remarks, it seems like you're accusing me of such actions. Young people wanting to make a name for themselves by stepping on the shoulders of their predecessors, I can understand."<br /> "But this kind of behavior displeases me."<br /> "My displeasure, what does it mean to you? Do you understand?"<br /> "Even if you are a healer, your career will be ruined because of this."<br /> Chapter 6 Hand of Hell<br /> In the face of Scott's veiled threats, Wesley simply smiled and brushed them off.<br /> Looking at Scott, he asked, "I've always focused on the issue at hand rather than attacking individuals. I have a few questions for you. If you can't administer the needles, how long do you think Quinn can hold on?"<br /> "Seven days, but he will remain unconscious," Scott replied bluntly.<br /> "Then let me ask you this, is there anyone in the world with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "Outrageous," Amanda coldly interjected, "Mr. Phillips is unparalleled in his medical expertise."<br /> Scott glanced at Amanda. "Amanda, let me handle this question."<br /> Continuing to address Wesley, he said, "I don't underestimate myself, nor do I overestimate. There are countless talented individuals in the world, like stars in the sky. I may not dare claim to be the best in medical skills, but those who surpass me are few."<br /> "That means there are some," Wesley calmly remarked, causing Scott's expression to shift slightly, "Indeed, there are."<br /> "Then let me ask you this. Do you think within seven days, the Kingsley family won't find someone with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "If they do find someone, do you believe there is an illness that you cannot cure, but this person can?"<br /> Wesley's questions were sharp and resounding.<br /> Scott's face changed once more as he was rendered speechless.<br /> "Even if there is, that person will never be you." Amanda's face turned icy. "Now get out. Don't spout your eloquence here. Your deceitful behavior is repulsive."<br /> "Your understanding of me is merely hearsay, isn't it?" Wesley retorted, his gaze mocking Amanda, "Has your background and education taught you such arrogance and prejudice?"<br /> "Arrogance?" Amanda's face grew colder as she disdainfully looked at Wesley. "Prejudice?<br /> "Did I say something wrong just now? You are nothing but stagnant waste, a parasite living off others. If it weren't for Taylor, you would have starved on the streets long ago."<br /> "Relying on sweet words, deceiving Taylor. She, with her kind heart, can't bear to divorce you, but don't push your luck. If it weren't for Taylor's sake, you would have been sent out long ago."<br /> Scott interrupted Amanda, "Amanda, although I find this lad a bit annoying, what he said does hold some truth. There are indeed individuals with better medical skills than me. Your grandfather can hold on for seven days. Try reaching out to see if someone can come over. I'll help you make connections."<br /> "If it really doesn't work out after seven days, I'll administer the needles to your grandfather. However, at that point, I can only buy you three minutes."<br /> As soon as Scott spoke, the faces of the Kingsley family members grew even more solemn. True healers were rare and not easily summoned.<br /> While the Kingsley family had connections in Yeadeo, their influence waned outside of it.<br /> "Mr. Phillips, please administer the needles. Life has its ups and downs, and we understand that. Just buy my father a bit more time." The middle-aged gent spoke up.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family nodded in agreement.<br /> Amanda looked at Scott. "Mr. Phillips, please."<br /> "In that case, please have everyone unrelated leave. I need silence," Scott calmly stated.<br /> Amanda glared at Wesley, her eyes speaking volumes without a word.<br /> The unrelated individuals were, naturally, Wesley and Mia.<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, intending to leave, but she suddenly hesitated.<br /> Instead of leaving, Wesley moved forward.<br /> "What are you doing?" A young member of the Kingsley family stepped forward with a stern expression, pushing Wesley.<br /> In one swift motion, Wesley executed a clean shoulder throw, toppling the young gent to the ground, his own expression turning cold.<br /> "A bunch of fools! If it weren't for my teacher's teachings about not turning a blind eye to those in need, I wouldn't bother with you ignorant lot," Wesley remarked with disdain.<br /> As Wesley effortlessly took down one individual from the Kingsley family, the others seemed slow to react.<br /> By the time they realized what was happening, Wesley had already picked up the needle next to Scott and casually flicked his wrist.<br /> The needle flew out of his hand, piercing Quinn's temple, followed by a second needle, a third needle, and so on.<br /> "What are you doing? Stop!" Amanda's voice rose in urgency, echoed by the rest of the Kingsley family members who rushed forward to restrain Wesley.<br /> "Stay back, everyone. Wait." Scott suddenly stood up, blocking the others. "Let him try."<br /> Amanda and the others were left dumbfounded, thinking, "What does this mean?"<br /> Despite their confusion, they heeded Scott's words.<br /> After Scott stopped the members of the Kingsley family, he fixed his gaze on Wesley.<br /> Wesley proceeded to use eighteen needles in succession, symbolizing the levels of pain.<br /> Even if someone had descended into the depths of hell, they must be brought back.<br /> The final needle, also piercing a vital point, caused Quinn's body to tremble suddenly, resonating with the previous eighteen needles.<br /> Scott's eyes widened, his body trembling slightly. His reaction left Amanda and the others even more puzzled, but none dared to interrupt.<br /> Moments later, Wesley placed a palm on Quinn's chest, causing all eighteen needles to be shaken off. When all the needles landed on the ground, the part of the skin where the needles had pierced turned dark.<br /> Wesley then dragged Quinn to the edge of the mattress, flipped him over with his head facing downwards, and gave him a firm pat on the back.<br /> Quinn spat out a mouthful of black liquid. When Wesley flipped him back to lie flat, his complexion had regained some color.<br /> "The Hand of Darkness... It's the Hand of Darkness!" Scott exclaimed with excitement, his body quivering, "It's the Hand that descends into the dark world, snatching people from the hands of the Evil!"<br /> "You do have some knowledge, recognizing the Hand of Darkness." Wesley glanced at Scott.<br /> Scott's gaze towards Wesley had undergone a drastic change. He respectfully clasped his hands together.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thirty years ago, I had the honor of attending a teaching conference held by Mr. Vanderbilt. I saw the Hand of Darkness, but my limited aptitude only allowed me to grasp the basics."<br /> "I have been blind and ignorant. I apologize for my earlier offenses. Please forgive me, Mr. Harrington."<br /> The Mr. Vanderbilt Scott referred to was Wesley's teacher, Ulysses Vanderbilt. He generously imparted his skills to others, but the ability to learn depended on one's innate talent.<br /> In this world, few could learn Ulysses' skills.<br /> Scott had been fortunate to receive guidance from Ulysses, which had elevated his medical skills. However, the Hand of Darkness, a miraculous ability, was beyond his comprehension.<br /> Wesley smiled faintly, "Your actions earlier are understandable. I appreciate your words."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you must be an exceptional disciple of Mr. Vanderbilt, possessing unparalleled magnanimity. Impressive," Scott continued.<br /> "Enough with the flattery at your age."<br /> "You are mistaken, Mr. Harrington. Every word I speak is sincere."<br /> Mia, Amanda, and the others stood bewildered by the unfolding situation.<br /> "Mr. Phillips... he... he..." Amanda's words faltered.<br /> Scott turned to the members of the Kingsley family. "Meeting Mr. Harrington was Quinn's luck. His symptoms have been cured by Mr. Harrington. With a few days of rest, he will be fine."<br /> The waste Taylor had previously said was called Mr. Harrington by Scott!<br /> Recalling their previous attitudes, Amanda hurriedly apologized, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> The members of the Kingsley family all apologized in unison, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> Chapter 7 Eight Plates of Noodles<br /> With a faint smile, Wesley remarked, "As family members of a patient, your actions earlier are understandable. There's no need for such formality."<br /> Amanda's perplexity deepened as she thought, "Where is the cowardly waste that Taylor described? This display of magnanimity and breadth is far from it."<br /> Mia, too, felt a shiver of realization, thinking, "No wonder Dad has insisted on my proximity to Wesley.<br /> This guy..."<br /> She gazed at Wesley, her curiosity piqued, a sense of exploration stirring within her.<br /> "Mia has brought you here, Mr. Harrington, to cure my grandfather. The Kingsley family will never forget this act. However, considering that my grandfather's ailment stemmed from the health supplements produced by the Vinver Business Alliance, we will be conducting an investigation into it."<br /> Amanda continued, looking at Wesley, "What do you think... of this approach?"<br /> It was Mia who had invited Wesley, so Amanda had grown wiser, refraining from asking for a direct punishment of the Vinver Business Alliance.<br /> As Mia heard Amanda's words, her heart skipped a beat, realizing trouble was brewing.<br /> "On the way here, Ms. Roberts briefed me on the situation. You conducted experiments on mice, correct?"<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes, the health supplements we received were exclusively provided by the Roberts family. There were no similar cases on the market, so we used mice for testing.<br /> "All the mice that ingested this supplement were gone."<br /> She looked at Mia and added, her voice turned colder. "Before the experiment, I specifically contacted Mia to inquire about the testing methods during the development phase, which involved mice."<br /> "There have been individuals eyeing my grandfather's position, some even wishing for his demise. I never imagined that the Vinver Business Alliance, which I attracted for investment, would become a weapon in someone else's hands."<br /> "Do you have any of the remaining medicine?" Wesley inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes."<br /> "Bring some over."<br /> Immediately, someone fetched the medicine. After it was brought to him, Wesley took out a supplement and swallowed it directly.<br /> This scene left Amanda and the others dumbfounded.<br /> Scott, too, was bewildered. "Mr. Harrington, what are you doing?"<br /> Wesley smiled, "Just proving that this medicine is not toxic."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thank you," Mia thanked sincerely, feeling like sobbing at that moment.<br /> Amanda, with a puzzled expression, looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, are you suggesting that my grandfather's condition wasn't caused by the Vinver Business Alliance's medicine? What about the mice?"<br /> The rest were equally puzzled.<br /> "Yes, but not entirely," Wesley said, leaving everyone even more bewildered.<br /> Mia's emotions were like a rollercoaster ride, from relief to immediate tension.<br /> "This medicine itself is not toxic, but when taken with another substance made from a certain plant, it results in Quinn's condition. The mice would die immediately, while humans could endure a few more days."<br /> Wesley continued to explain, "The plant used in this concoction is originally meant for crafting slow-acting toxins, not for human consumption."<br /> Looking at Amanda, Wesley said, "During this period, whoever had access to your grandfather and the mice will better understand why these events occurred."<br /> The gaze of members of the Kingsley family immediately focused on a lady.<br /> Amanda, somewhat incredulous, looked at her. "Can you offer an explanation?"<br /> The lady was the wife of Amanda's deceased brother. She found it hard to accept, as did the rest of the Kingsley family.<br /> This lady had been named the exemplary lady who served her family well this year, not due to her connection with the Kingsley family but because she genuinely deserved it.<br /> "What do you mean? Amanda, what explanation do you want from me?"<br /> The lady stared at Amanda. "Am I the only one who had access to Grandfather and the mice? You, and you... and you, who didn't have access?"<br /> "You all claim to treat me as family. Since I married into the Kingsley family, I have worked diligently, contributing my share even if not acknowledged."<br /> "Amanda, it has been over a year since your brother passed, and I never once considered remarrying. Now, just because of his words, you demand an explanation from me?"<br /> Pointing at Wesley, the lady questioned, "Just because he accuses me of poisoning, you suspect me? Tell me, did I poison him?" The lady glared at Wesley.<br /> "I am merely analyzing the facts. As for concluding this case, it's not within my purview," Wesley addressed the members of the Kingsley family, saying, "You should conduct a thorough investigation into this matter.<br /> "I will write a prescription. Have Quinn take it on time, and he will recover in seven days."<br /> Amanda hurried to fetch paper and pen while Wesley prepared the prescription. Once done, he was ready to leave.<br /> Amanda said hurriedly, "Mr. Harrington, I've already made arrangements for lunch."<br /> "No need," Wesley smiled.<br /> The Kingsley family sought to build closer ties with Wesley, given his extraordinary medical skills. Wesley was well aware of this.<br /> Looking at Amanda and the others, Wesley remarked, "In the future, if you encounter any difficult medical cases that others cannot solve, seek me out. Remember, cases others cannot solve."<br /> The gaze of the Kingsley family members toward Wesley changed once again. Many renowned healers had eccentric personalities and were difficult to engage.<br /> They hadn't expected Wesley to possess such remarkable medical skills without any airs.<br /> As Wesley prepared to depart, the members of the Kingsley family did not dare to insist on his stay, so they accompanied him outside.<br /> "Oh, how could we forget such an important matter? Amanda, what about the consultation fee?" The middle-aged gent inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the oversight. Please wait a moment." Amanda hurried back inside and soon returned with a bank card in hand.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, there's one million dollars in here."<br /> Without hesitation, Wesley accepted the bank card and boarded Mia's car.<br /> During the journey, Mia boldly looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, you've helped me immensely. Can I treat you to a meal? Don't decline in a hurry. It's not a fancy restaurant, but it will leave you wanting more. It's a small place on the street, with only eight plates of noodles served each day, each plate containing different ingredients."<br /> "I managed to secure a reservation. Are you interested?"<br /> Wesley thought, "Eight Plates of Noodles?<br /> "Ah, Aaron's restaurant. It has been a while since I visited those old friends."<br /> Wesley nodded. "Let's go then."<br /> The restaurant, Eight Plates of Noodles, was located on Chanxold Street near the Yeadeo First Central Hospital.<br /> The establishment was small, serving only eight plates of noodles each day at a price of 10 thousand dollars each. Vernoic's television culinary program had specifically covered this incident.<br /> Reservations were a must to secure a plate.<br /> The restaurant's owner had a mysterious background. While the specifics were unknown, a high-ranking noble from the capital of Vernoic, Kingsland, had caused a scene there once.<br /> He had attempted to force his way in without a reservation. Although this incident hadn't been reported, rumors suggested that a garbage truck had to be called to dispose of the intruder's remains, as he was too shattered to be removed by conventional means.<br /> Since then, no one dared to cause trouble.<br /> On their way, Mia introduced Wesley to the background story.<br /> "Mr. Turner, two plates of noodles." Mia called out once they arrived.<br /> Aaron Turner didn't respond but visibly paused upon seeing Wesley beside Mia.<br /> A faint smile appeared on his usually stoic face. Though the flesh on the face seemed stiff, it was indeed a smile. "Coming right up."<br /> Chapter 8 You Are Blushing<br /> Mia glanced at Aaron with a hint of surprise, thinking, "When does he become so warm and enthusiastic?<br /> His tone seemed a bit agitated earlier, didn't it?"<br /> Soon enough, Aaron brought two plates of noodles to the table. One steaming hot and the other devoid of any warmth.<br /> As Mia observed Aaron placing the plate without steam in front of Wesley, her expression changed slightly.<br /> It was a plate of instant noodles having soaked in cold water, with the seasoning barely dissolved.<br /> She felt a sense of panic. Mia had wanted to leave a good impression on Wesley, which was why she had chosen this place.<br /> However, Aaron had served such a plate of noodles.<br /> She dared not question Aaron. The type of noodles served here was not determined by the guests but by Aaron's mood.<br /> "This lass named Mia is quite something, living up to her name, and quite kind-hearted," Aaron remarked, looking at Wesley.<br /> "Get lost," Wesley retorted, using his fork to pick up the noodles and devouring them.<br /> Mia's face turned pale instantly. Disrespecting Aaron was akin to risking Wesley's life.<br /> To her astonishment, Aaron chuckled, tears welling up in his eyes.<br /> He wiped them away. "Alright, I'll leave you to your meal."<br /> Before departing, he gave Mia a thumbs-up. "Seize the opportunity."<br /> The eight plates of noodles symbolized the eight comrades who had faced life and hardships together.<br /> Wesley ate voraciously. Initially, they had only one pack of instant noodles to share among the eight of them, forcing them to divide it.<br /> Despite the circumstances, they devoured the noodles joyfully.<br /> Aaron had promised that once they survived, each one would have the most delicious plate of noodles.<br /> However, five of the eight had perished.<br /> Wesley had come dangerously close to life-threatening situations, but managed to cling to life.<br /> For him, the plate of noodles was not food but the bond of friendship that had shielded him from harm.<br /> "Do you... know each other?" Mia couldn't help but ask, her voice low and curious.<br /> "Some things are better left unknown," Wesley replied.<br /> Mia nodded in understanding, falling silent as they continued eating noodles. She couldn't help stealing glances at Wesley throughout the meal.<br /> This gent had piqued her curiosity even more.<br /> "Wesley, I see. No wonder you agreed to the divorce so readily. You've already found someone else outside."<br /> A sharp voice interrupted their meal.<br /> Taylor approached with a cold expression, accompanied by Henry.<br /> Taylor's mother was in the nearby hospital, and she had just picked up Frank, planning to buy some food when she unexpectedly saw Wesley.<br /> Of course, she saw Mia, too.<br /> Seeing Wesley dining with a lady more attractive than herself, so soon after the divorce felt like a dagger twisting in Taylor's heart.<br /> Her anger was uncontrollable.<br /> Wesley merely glanced at Taylor, disinterested in engaging with her.<br /> Taylor was stung by his indifferent gaze. She stepped forward, glaring at Wesley. "Are you not going to explain to me?"<br /> Mia looked at Taylor, silently cursing her as a foolish lady.<br /> Wesley continued eating his noodles, lowering his head. "Get lost. Don't disturb me, or I won't hesitate to hit you."<br /> "What did you say?" Henry stepped forward, enraged. "Wesley, try laying a hand on her! Is that all you're capable of? Laying hands on ladies?"<br /> "No wonder Taylor looks down on you. You're truly disgusting trash. Apologize to Taylor now, or else you'll regret coming into this world."<br /> "And how will he regret it? Tell me." Aaron emerged, carrying a cleaver, smiling as he faced Henry and Taylor.<br /> "Mr. Turner, we dare not cause trouble in your place, but this guy is just..."<br /> Henry attempted to speak but was cut off as Aaron's cleaver struck his face, sending him sprawling to the ground.<br /> "Mr. Turner, sorry, we'll leave now." Taylor hastily helped Henry up and hurriedly left.<br /> These two individuals were fortunate to know the legendary story behind Eight Plates of Noodles and had successfully made reservations to dine here multiple times.<br /> Having distanced themselves a bit, Henry covered his face and pointed at Wesley. "Wesley, we have some unfinished business. If you're smart, come over here now and apologize."<br /> "Wesley, I've seen through you as well. I never expected that for the past five years, you've been using my money to keep a lady on the side. We'll settle the score slowly."<br /> As the two noticed Aaron glancing their way, they quickly shut their mouths and hurriedly left.<br /> Once they were out of eyeshots, Aaron fixed his gaze on Wesley. "Your dad doesn't know about your divorce yet, does he?"<br /> "What difference would it make if he did?" Wesley stretched lazily. "I've fulfilled my promise. I've given enough."<br /> Aaron nodded in acknowledgment without saying anything further.<br /> This piqued Mia's curiosity even more. "Is it like what the novels depict? Did you marry Taylor due to some special event?"<br /> Seeing Wesley's glare, Mia lowered her head to focus on her noodles. "I won't ask anymore."<br /> "For the past five years, you've been staying in the stairwell. It has been hard for you, but at least you're still untouched," Aaron remarked before swiftly departing.<br /> Mia stared at Wesley in disbelief, realizing that Aaron's words were meant for her ears.<br /> "What are you staring at? Eat your noodles," Wesley said. Mia chuckled.<br /> "Why are you laughing?"<br /> "You're blushing."<br /> "Nonsense," Wesley retorted.<br /> Unable to contain herself, Mia burst into laughter. She had tried to hold it in, but seeing Wesley's flushed face made it impossible.<br /> Ten minutes later, Mia left on her own accord, sensing that Wesley had something to discuss with Aaron.<br /> Inside Aaron's small shop, Wesley opened a bottle of wine. "Still single?"<br /> "I look too old, no one's interested," Aaron replied, opening a bottle of liquor as well.<br /> "Then why are you meddling in my love lives?"<br /> "Leave a child behind, even if you pass away, someone will remember you." Aaron took a sip. "I've actually investigated this Mia."<br /> "You investigated her?"<br /> "I knew you'd get a divorce. I've been keeping an eye on the pretty ones. This girl had done a lot of good deeds before coming to Yeadeo. Once, she saved three people in a flood and nearly lost her life. Opportunities are rare. You have to seize them."<br /> "When you've figured things out and are ready to marry, then we can discuss our affairs. That's the condition." Wesley downed the entire bottle of liquor.<br /> "Otherwise, don't bother meddling. We're on a one-way path and can't drag others along."<br /> "You..." Aaron sighed as he watched Wesley's retreating figure.<br /> On the road leading to the Feidgeuo Manor, Taylor stood gazing blankly at the entrance not far away.<br /> Twice in one day, she had come here.<br /> The first time was to pick up Frank, and this time was because Frank had lost his expensive watch. She and Henry hadn't even had a meal, rushing over to find it.<br /> The first time, she had come in a hurry when Frank was injured and left quickly as well.<br /> But this time, as Taylor looked at the entrance ahead, an infinite longing sprouted within her.<br /> "If only... I could live here, how wonderful that would be."<br /> Henry looked at her. "One day, I'll definitely build an estate more magnificent than this, and you'll be the lady of the house."<br /> As they conversed, a taxi drove by, stopping at the entrance. The person who got out of the taxi left Taylor stunned.<br /> She rubbed her eyes. | Adoread | 478 | https://facebook.com/61556400142540 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713682800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846710 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446607 | 1735168081 | 890 | 1597233100849625 | 4 | 1.1651477813066E+15 | 1713769200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 226177680578601 | 0 | Adoread | 120207811551870265 | client.adoread.com | Learn more | NONE | image | 🔥🔥🔥 Read More👉 | Hottest novel👉👉👉 | https://client.adoread.com/book/loading/page/adoread/19161308412?utm_campaign={{campaign.id}}&utm_content={{campaign.name}} | 1713710196 | 2.261776805786E+14 | Adoread | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439137083_705875514848972_1521927203609273452_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Tg4RWbC-WU8Q7kNvgGJTDl4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD_YMFyH31GOiguQTO3poHuPrN_IOUjm5DMRdlBrzOStw&oe=6663ECA0 | person_profile | 0 | Adoread | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439090625_357556136755269_6995260149405022411_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EpHyA2fbl7AQ7kNvgGaMa7j&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAItOwW42MYXnAb7N9S7ICv5HyLPTJok5OOuYiUun1avg&oe=6663F7BD | 0 | 3 | "Wesley, are you trying to harm me? You useless piece of trash, can't even make a decent cup of coffee, can you?"<br /> Madison Blair lifted her coffee cup and splashed it directly onto Wesley Harrington's face.<br /> "What are you looking at, you spineless waste? Your name sounds so lofty? I might as well call you a waste."<br /> Glancing at the grotesque expression of his wife's mother, Wesley pulled out his phone to check the time.<br /> Exactly twelve o'clock. It had been five full years since he married Taylor Reed.<br /> The appointed time had come.<br /> He had fulfilled his promise, safeguarding the Reed family for five years, transforming them from a family living off fishing to one perceived as affluent by the common folk.<br /> Wiping the coffee off his face, he turned and walked away.<br /> "Where do you think you're going? Go fetch some more coffee," Madison shouted.<br /> "Madison, didn't you say this waste is obedient at home, doing whatever he's told? I don't think he's taking it lying down."<br /> Madison grew angrier. "Wesley, you stop right there. My family has fed and housed you. If you dare disobey, I'll have you thrown out!"<br /> Ignoring her, Wesley continued downstairs.<br /> "When Taylor comes back, I'll immediately have you two divorced. Do you hear me? Stay right there," Madison threatened, "I'll let you know your place today."<br /> Grabbing a golf club, Madison swiftly charged towards Wesley.<br /> Seeing Wesley heading downstairs, she swung the club viciously at his back.<br /> Without turning back, Wesley gently sidestepped.<br /> Losing her balance, Madison tumbled forward, rolling down the stairs with a series of thumps.<br /> "Ouch... it hurts, it hurts so much!"<br /> As Madison reached the ground floor, she wailed in pain and her sister immediately rushed to her.<br /> "Wesley, what have you done? How dare you hit my sister!" Madison's sister hurried down, checking on Madison's condition.<br /> Wesley remained silent, observing the scene.<br /> "Quick, call Taylor. Tell her to come back. Today, she must divorce this waste." Madison glared at Wesley. "How dare you hit me? Not only will I let Taylor divorce you, but I'll make sure you leave in disgrace."<br /> "Mum, what's wrong?" At that moment, a gent and a lady walked in.<br /> The lady was Taylor, Madison's daughter.<br /> She ran towards Madison.<br /> As Madison pointed at Wesley, tears streamed down her face. "Taylor, he hit me, he hit me! When you're not home, he changes his attitude, scolding and hitting me in the slightest displeasure. He even pushed me down the stairs just now. Alexis can testify."<br /> Madison's sister, Alexis Blair, chimed in. "Yes, Wesley, this trash not only hit your mother but also threatened to hit me too. We cannot tolerate such trash."<br /> "Taylor, I have been telling you to divorce him for years. You've been supporting him, treating him like a Lord at home, but he's an ungrateful wolf in sheep's clothing."<br /> Helping Madison up, Taylor noticed the scrapes on Madison's arms and legs, her expression turning cold.<br /> "Wesley, why did you hit my mother? You better give me an explanation."<br /> Wesley looked at Taylor, his wife.<br /> Five years had passed, and she had never shown him kindness.<br /> Taylor dressed impeccably, a paragon of a successful lady, with a face that could be deemed angelic, yet whether her heart was as angelic remained a mystery.<br /> Her figure, too, left countless men yearning.<br /> For five years, Wesley had thought he might develop feelings for this lady, but in reality, it never happened.<br /> "There are surveillance cameras in the house," Wesley stated calmly before descending the stairs into the hallway.<br /> Despite residing in a three-story villa, Wesley's living quarters were confined to the stairwell.<br /> He harbored no resentment towards this arrangement. It was merely a promise. It was just that Taylor failed to appreciate him.<br /> This home held little value that he wished to cling onto.<br /> Retrieving a wooden box from beneath his pillow, Wesley extracted two documents. Casting a fleeting glance at the modest abode he had called home for five years, Wesley smiled faintly.<br /> He thought, "Finally... I'm free."<br /> Pushing the door ajar, Wesley was met by Taylor's piercing gaze. "I've reviewed the surveillance footage. Yes, my mother intended to strike you, but even if she did, what difference would it make?"<br /> "She's a lady. How much could her blows hurt you? Why did you dodge?"<br /> "If you hadn't dodged, my mother wouldn't have tumbled down." Wesley stared at Taylor, unable to comprehend her thought process.<br /> He had no interest in engaging in these arguments. Handing over the two documents to Taylor, he remarked, "The divorce agreement. I've already signed it. Take a look. I'm leaving with nothing."<br /> "With your current influence, there's no need for you to visit the city hall. Someone will handle it for you, right?"<br /> Madison was taken aback. She swiftly snatched the divorce agreement, flipping through it hastily.<br /> The contents were indeed straightforward. Both parties willingly divorced, with Wesley relinquishing all claims and having already signed.<br /> In an instant, Madison's pain seemed to dissipate. "Taylor, sign it quickly. Sign it."<br /> Taylor was still in a daze.<br /> She pondered.<br /> "A divorce agreement? Wesley has already prepared a divorce agreement. On what grounds?"<br /> "What gives him the right to initiate a divorce? All these years, he's done nothing at home, lacking any ambition. Always practicing martial arts, what right does he have to seek a divorce?"<br /> "If anyone should initiate it, it should be me. Moreover, now that I'm back to discussing this matter with him. Could it be that word got out, and Wesley, for the sake of his pride, rushed to prepare a divorce agreement first?"<br /> "It must be so, but... No!"<br /> "Wanting to leave with nothing, is he retreating to advance? As the chairman of the Reed Group, how could I be served with a divorce?"<br /> "Hey Wesley, I never expected this from you. Have I not treated you well enough? You seek a divorce, attempting to turn your retreat into advance, aiming to embarrass me?"<br /> Taylor glared at Wesley. "I'm telling you, it's impossible."<br /> Snatching the divorce agreement, she tore it to shreds.<br /> "Taylor, what are you doing? Such a great opportunity. Why not just sign it and let him leave?" Madison grew anxious.<br /> "Mom, I do intend to divorce this trash, but the decision must come from me. I returned specifically to address this matter."<br /> With that, Taylor produced two documents. "Wesley, remember that it's me who's divorcing you. It's me who no longer wants you. Initially, out of marital obligation, I had considered offering you some compensation. Now, you don't even need to think about it. Sign the divorce agreement and leave my home."<br /> Wesley offered a faint smile as he accepted the divorce agreement.<br /> "What are you laughing at?" Taylor demanded angrily.<br /> Wesley's smile seemed to mock her, fueling her rage.<br /> Ignoring her entirely, Wesley signed the document and handed it over.<br /> "What are you laughing at? Answer me! Who do you think you are?" Taylor roared once more.<br /> Wesley glanced at her before striding towards the exit.<br /> "Stop!" The gent who had accompanied Taylor stepped forward, blocking Wesley's path. "Taylor asked you a question, and... Your previous attitude displeased me. Apologize to Taylor, or I'll have you leave in disgrace!"<br /> Chapter 2 The Unspoken Truth<br /> <br /> "Yes, let him leave in disgrace. He thought he could just hit me and walk away so easily," Madison joined in the commotion, also noticing the gent blocking Wesley's path.<br /> Madison had a keen interest in luxury goods, having frequented various high-end establishments over the years as the Reed family's living conditions improved. The gent was wearing an expensive watch and dressed head to toe in high-end luxury brands.<br /> Seeing Madison's gaze, the gent spoke. "Rest assured, today Wesley must pay the price."<br /> The gent introduced himself, looking at Wesley, "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Henry Clark, the eldest son of the Clark family and the general manager of the Clark Group in the North District."<br /> "From now on, I will accompany Taylor on her journey of life, and I will not allow anyone to bully her."<br /> "My identity carries weight. You should understand that. Now, apologize to Taylor. Apologize! Did you hear me? Apologize!"<br /> Madison's eyes lit up. She hadn't expected the gent before her to hold such a high status. She continued to shout, "Did you hear that? Taylor will be with Mr. Clark from now on. Apologize now."<br /> Wesley glanced at Henry, then at Taylor. He thought, "Have they been together all along?" Wesley had wanted to ask but decided against it because there was no need. He simply gave them a glance and continued walking towards the exit.<br /> "Are you ignoring me?" Henry's face turned cold as he reached out to grab Wesley. Henry's hand froze mid-air as he received a solid hit.<br /> "Until I sign the divorce papers, Taylor and I are still wife and husband. I don't care to investigate whether you two had any intimate relationship during that time, but don't provoke me, or I won't hesitate to make you regret it." Wesley's gaze was icy, and as Henry met his eyes, he felt a twinge of fear and swallowed his words.<br /> Taylor was also stunned. She knew exactly what Wesley had been like over the past five years. There were many surveillance cameras in the house, and she would often check them.<br /> Even when Taylor wasn't home, despite how her family treated Wesley, he always obeyed without complaint, especially towards her. He had never raised his voice, no matter how they treated him.<br /> Today, not only did Wesley dodge when her mother struck, but he also initiated the divorce and now even struck Henry. <br /> Taylor was at a loss for words, thinking, "How could this cowardly gent dare? On what grounds does he dare?"<br /> This change was difficult for Taylor to accept as if she didn't truly understand this guy. The gent who used to be obedient to her, completely submissive, now revealed this side of himself. She watched Wesley walk away in a daze, feeling a strange discomfort in her heart.<br /> "Isn't he leaving with nothing?" Alexis pointed at the wooden box Wesley was holding. "What is he taking with him?"<br /> Madison also realized. Over the past five years, Wesley had always treasured this wooden box, carrying it with him wherever he went. She thought there must be something valuable inside.<br /> Realizing this, Madison hurriedly followed. "Wesley, stop right there, leave the wooden box."<br /> Wesley paused, glanced at Madison, and said, "This is my personal belonging."<br /> "Nonsense, what personal belonging could you possibly have after marrying into the Reed family? Everything you've eaten, worn, and lived in over the years has been provided by the Reed family. Put it down."<br /> As she spoke, Madison reached out to grab the wooden box.<br /> "Ah..." A scream rang out as Madison quickly retracted her hand, a gash appearing on her palm, a crimson liquid dripping.<br /> The wooden box was now stained with the same crimson liquid, trembling lightly in Wesley's hand.<br /> "It's not the right time yet, the day you thirst for this crimson liquid will come," Wesley murmured softly, patting the box before turning to continue his stride towards the exit.<br /> "Monster! A monster!" Madison screamed, causing Taylor and the others to rush out. Seeing the wound in Madison's hand, Taylor was filled with rage.<br /> "Wesley, aren't you going to say something?" Wesley halted once more, contemplating before meeting Taylor's gaze.<br /> "Just stay out of my way from now on. Consider this a warning to you."<br /> "Taylor, that wooden box of his has a mechanism. It must hold something valuable! We can't let him take it with him," Madison, enduring the pain, reminded them.<br /> "Mom, your injury is important. We'll deal with him later. Let me take you to the hospital first." Taylor comforted Madison before calling out to the retreating Wesley.<br /> "Our marriage is over! Yet, you dared to hurt my mother! This won't be the end of it! I will make you regret it!" Ignoring her, Wesley continued walking out.<br /> "Rest assured, I promise he won't see the light of day tomorrow." Henry stepped forward to console. "Let's focus on getting your wound treated first."<br /> "I want him to regret ever existing in this world, to apologize to me in repentance," Madison roared.<br /> "Mom, trust me, I will make him do just that." Taylor looked at Madison with a mix of pity and determination. "Let's go to the hospital first."<br /> In the villa area, Wesley halted, his voice cold. "Get out."<br /> An elderly gent leaped down from a tree, appearing to be in his seventies, yet landing silently from a height of around ten feet.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, your father wants you to come home and take charge."<br /> "He stopped being my father five years ago. He's my enemy."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you misunderstood your father. He had his reasons back then. I swear in my life, once you know the truth, you will forgive him."<br /> "Huh!" Wesley smirked coldly, saying, "I nearly passed away back then. Is that also a misunderstanding?"<br /> The old gent pleaded, "Mr. Harrington, this situation is truly not as you perceive it."<br /> Wesley didn't engage further with the old guy. The events of that year were etched in his memory forever. He was the one who had been abandoned. If not for that incident, why would he have stayed with the Reed family for five years?<br /> Watching Wesley walk away, the old gent had tears silently streaming down his face. "Mr. Harrington, I truly... I truly can't bring myself to speak the truth, but you have misunderstood your father. He also bears burdens and endures pains beyond what an ordinary person can handle."<br /> As Wesley's figure disappeared, the old gent stood up, hesitated for a moment, then dialed a number on his phone.<br /> "Mr. Harrington is now divorced. I've given you the news firsthand. If your daughter is truly together with Mr. Harrington, you must fulfill the promise and let her persuade Mr. Harrington to come home."<br /> After hanging up, a middle-aged gent in a luxurious estate jumped up excitedly. Calming himself, he immediately made another call. "My dear, you're at Yeadeo, right?<br /> "Go find Wesley now. Don't mention the engagement for now. Use every means to get close to him, make him fall in love with you."<br /> "Dad, I don't have time."<br /> "No matter what you are busy with, you must go find Wesley now. No matter what reason you approach him, you must leave a good impression the first time."<br /> "Dad, I'm in trouble right now. If I don't handle it well, I might be good as gone. I have to deal with it immediately. I'm hanging up."<br /> Chapter 3 You're Nothing<br /> The middle-aged gent's voice lowered significantly. "Is there a big incident happening? You didn't tell me? What happened?"<br /> "Quinn Kingsley from Yeadeo, Mr. Kingsley, used our product and now has one foot on the grave. If something really happens to him..."<br /> "You mean Quinn, the uncontested leader of Yeadeo?"<br /> "Yes."<br /> "In that case, you should go find Wesley. Trust me, in this world, there is no problem that Wesley can't solve. As long as he's willing to help, you'll be fine. Listen to me, go find Wesley immediately."<br /> The lady fell silent for a moment before saying, "Okay."<br /> At Yeadeo Harbor, a gent with a large flaxen chain and a watch, sporting a crew cut, hurriedly disembarked, accompanied by a dozen gentlemen.<br /> "Mr. Reed, wherever that trash is, we will find him and tear him apart."<br /> "Yes, that guy dared to harm your mother. We'll make sure he pays for it."<br /> Frank Reed's face turned cold. "Wesley, you coward, thinking you can overturn the world? How dare you touch my mom? Just wait until I find you, you're finished."<br /> "We've found him. Wesley got into a taxi, and our boys followed him."<br /> "Let's go!" Frank waved his hand, leading dozens of men who boarded the car with harpoons, steel pipes, and other weapons.<br /> Inside the taxi, Wesley gazed at the scenery outside, feeling a strange sense of tranquility.<br /> He thought to himself, "I never imagined that while I was secretly paving the way for the Reed family, Taylor, after progressing so rapidly, would start looking down on me more and more."<br /> "Those ladies who know my true identity, which one of them isn't trying to throw themselves at me? Ladies like that don't interest me."<br /> "Being an ordinary gent is truly difficult," Wesley murmured, smiling faintly and deciding not to dwell on these matters anymore. He had important things to attend to and no time to waste on personal affairs.<br /> "Young lad, are you going to Feidgeuo Manor for a job interview?" The driver, curious about Wesley's destination, inquired.<br /> Feidgeuo Manor was Yeadeo's most mysterious private area. Originally a villa area, it was bought at a huge cost five years ago and completely renovated. It was said to have cost a trillion dollars. The former villa area was now Feidgeuo Manor.<br /> "That's my home," Wesley replied nonchalantly.<br /> The driver was taken aback by this revelation, silently cursing Wesley for bragging. After a couple of minutes, the driver regained his composure. "It seems like you and I both prefer to keep a low profile. My car usually gathers dust at home, so I occasionally drive a taxi to experience life."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "My car has been driven by my assistant for the past few years, so it's not gathering dust."<br /> "Haha..." The driver laughed. "We should get together sometime and see whose car is more impressive."<br /> "Sure, whenever we have the time."<br /> As they chatted, the vehicle soon arrived near Feidgeuo Manor, where the massive head of the Feidgeuo Peak protruded, creating a unique landscape in Yeadeo.<br /> The driver asked with a smile, "Since you're the owner here, it's fine if I drive in, right?"<br /> "Of course," Wesley replied.<br /> As soon as Wesley spoke, several cars caught up from behind.<br /> The cars surrounded the one Wesley was in, with the front vehicles braking to force the car to a stop.<br /> When numerous people descended from cars wielding harpoons and steel pipes, the driver's face paled.<br /> Frank and his group got out of the cars, instantly closing in, and without hesitation, started attacking, the steel pipes and harpoons thudding against the car.<br /> Frank's henchman yanked open the door of Wesley's car, poised to stab Wesley with a harpoon, but Wesley swiftly exited the vehicle.<br /> With a firm step on the ground, he launched a swift hit.<br /> A muffled sound echoed as the henchman was hit away.<br /> "What are you looking at?" Frank noticed his henchmen were all staring at him. "All of you, attack together and take him down!"<br /> As he commanded, the henchmen Frank brought with him surged forward.<br /> The taxi driver, trembling, took out his phone to call the police, but Frank glared at him. "I am Frank Reed from Yeadeo Harbor. If you dare, go ahead and make that call."<br /> Frank, leveraging his sister Taylor's status, had been causing trouble in Yeadeo Harbor, and no one dared to provoke him.<br /> Upon hearing Frank's name, the driver hastily put away his phone. "Mr. Reed, I'll just check the time, you guys continue."<br /> "Huh!" Frank snorted coldly, casting his gaze towards the surrounded Wesley.<br /> The sounds of thuds continued to ring out incessantly. Because Wesley was completely surrounded, Frank was unable to see the situation inside clearly, but he could imagine it. After all, in Frank's mind, the henchmen under his command were not to be trifled with.<br /> "Hit him hard for me!"<br /> Another muffled sound and a figure flew out. At that moment, Frank finally saw the situation clearly, and his face turned pale.<br /> Frank knew that Wesley liked to practice martial arts, but he had never expected Wesley to be this skilled. It wasn't Wesley who had been beaten, but his own men by Wesley alone.<br /> Frantically, Frank turned and ran to retrieve a crossbow from the car.<br /> "Clear the way." Frank bellowed, aiming the crossbow at Wesley.<br /> "You scumbag, you think you can fight? Move one more time, and I'll end your life! Surrender!"<br /> Wesley, holding a wooden box, stared at Frank. Ignoring the crossbow in his hand, Wesley said, "Tell your henchmen to back off, or you'll all see the light from above!"<br /> "You're really good at pretending to be tough." Frank took two steps forward. "See the light? Move a muscle and see if I can end your life or not! If you don't have the guts, apologize now!"<br /> Wesley turned his head and looked at the approaching cars, with two expensive ones in the lead, two more in the rear, and another one in the middle.<br /> "Keep acting tough, and I'll put a hole in your head." Frank spoke while glancing at the five cars. "What, looking for help?"<br /> "Let me tell you, those who ride in these cars are not the kind of weaklings like you who rely on connections. With me here, in Yeadeo's social hierarchy, even those who ride in such cars wouldn't dare meddle in this matter. And let me make it clear, without my sister, you're nothing."<br /> Chapter 4 Is He Worthy?<br /> As Frank's words faded, the five cars came to a halt.<br /> A bodyguard opened the door of the one in the middle, revealing a dazzling pair of shining shoes catching everyone's eye.<br /> The shining shoe encased a beautiful foot. Above, the skirt's hem was adorned with lace.<br /> Then, like a fairy stepping out of a painting, she appeared before everyone's eyes.<br /> The lady was beautiful!<br /> Frank was mesmerized. Ever since the Reed family rose to prominence, he had been surrounded by ladies, but compared to the elegant lady before him, they were worlds apart.<br /> It wasn't just a difference in appearance but an incomparable gap in demeanor.<br /> The lady descending from the Maybach seemed like a celestial being untouched by mortal affairs.<br /> The embodiment of a fairy in the mundane world.<br /> She simply stood there after getting out of the car, perfectly embodying what it meant to be graceful and elegant.<br /> The lady glanced at Wesley, then at Frank.<br /> Frank grinned, saying, "May I have the honor of knowing the name of this esteemed lady? I am Frank..."<br /> The lady spoke calmly. "Disrespect Mr. Harrington, and you're done for."<br /> Her bodyguards, unfazed by Frank's crossbow, swiftly overwhelmed him, sending him crashing to the ground.<br /> The henchmen who had come with Frank, previously defeated by Wesley, now scrambled to their feet and fled in all directions.<br /> Who would dare provoke someone who could afford such a car?<br /> "My sister is Taylor Reed, the chairperson of Reed Group," Frank shouted, clutching his head.<br /> Ignoring him, one of the bodyguards dragged him to the roadside grass while another used a belt to tighten around Frank's neck, exerting pressure.<br /> "Enough, a lesson is all that's needed." Wesley spoke calmly, and only when the lady gestured did the bodyguards release Frank.<br /> Frank lay there, already unconscious.<br /> Wesley turned to the lady. "Who are you?"<br /> "I am Mia Roberts, the general manager of Vinver Business Alliance's Yeadeo branch." She looked at Wesley and continued, "Mr. Harrington, my father mentioned that you have miraculous healing skills and earnestly requested your assistance. A generous reward awaits."<br /> Wesley furrowed his brow slightly, thinking, "There are indeed people who recognize my abilities and status, yet I've rarely intervened in the past five years. Today, shortly after I divorced Taylor, she is here. Whose arrangement is this?"<br /> "Mr. Harrington, my father also mentioned that you are benevolent and has raised the banner of compassion among healers, serving as a role model and benchmark for all in the medical field."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "You have a way with words. Tell me the specifics."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, please get in the car first. I will explain in detail on the way."<br /> The phrase "compassionate healer" held significant weight for Wesley, who had saved countless lives from the brink of death.<br /> Without further ado, he got into the car.<br /> Inside, after Mia brewed coffee for Wesley, she began. "Vinver Business Alliance has a wide range of business operations, and I mainly oversee the health supplement sector, which has seen some success in recent years.<br /> "Recently, Quinn Kingsley started using our medicines, and now there's an accident."<br /> As she spoke, Mia kept her gaze fixed on Wesley.<br /> Quinn, the undisputed leader of Yeadeo, was a figure of immense influence.<br /> Upon hearing this name, Wesley showed no particular reaction. "If the city's leader faces issues with your products, it is indeed a concern. Let's go and see."<br /> With just a sentence, Wesley leaned back in his seat, closing his eyes to rest.<br /> Mia was secretly alarmed, thinking, "He knows who Quinn is, yet he seems indifferent. Who is this Wesley, really? No wonder Dad has instructed me to find a way to win his favor." Mia's inner resistance toward Wesley quietly shifted.<br /> Wesley had piqued her curiosity.<br /> As the vehicle was moving, Wesley's phone rang.<br /> Wesley opened his eyes and took out his phone to see Taylor calling.<br /> Pressing the answer button, he asked, "What's the matter?"<br /> On the other end of the line, Taylor, driving towards Feidgeuo Manor, had a grim expression.<br /> She thought, "Has Wesley ever spoken to me in such a cold tone before? Is he really this heartless right after our divorce?"<br /> Already furious, she snapped. "Wesley, do you even consider yourself a human being?<br /> "Today, not only did you lay hands on my mother, but you also had someone attack my brother. Do you not remember our past at all?"<br /> Wesley calmly replied, "Do we have a past to remember?"<br /> "You truly are a heartless scumbag, just as my mother said. You are an ungrateful and vicious person I raised for five years. Even a pet would wag its tail at me!"<br /> Taylor wanted to continue her tirade, but the phone line had already turned busy.<br /> This only fueled her anger further.<br /> Just now, she had received a call from Frank's underlings, informing her that Wesley had sent people to attack Frank and even intended to end him.<br /> Taylor wanted to demand answers, but...<br /> As Taylor was clutching her fists, her gaze turned icy.<br /> After a moment, she picked up her phone again. "Wesley, you are so narrow-minded. You have no ambition. Any lady would steer clear of you."<br /> "Just because I dumped you, you are doing this on purpose to make me feel sick. Pretending to be aloof and seeking revenge? Do you even deserve it?"<br /> "In Yeadeo, squashing you would be as easy as squashing an ant. You're asking for it! If anything happens to my brother, I will make you wish you were ending!"<br /> Her furious voice message echoed in the car.<br /> Wesley chuckled and put away his phone.<br /> Beside him, Mia seemed contemplative. Before coming, she had already ordered a swift investigation into Wesley.<br /> She was curious, thinking, "How could someone valued by my father could be the one 'marrying into' the Reed family."<br /> Being tactful, Mia chose not to ask and pretended not to have heard.<br /> After about forty minutes, they arrived at the Kingsley Manor.<br /> The Kingsley family members, upon seeing Mia alight from the car, all wore grim expressions.<br /> Mia greeted them with a smile, "Everyone, this is Wesley Harrington, Mr. Harrington, the miraculous healer I specially invited to treat Mr. Kingsley."<br /> "Him? The gent who married into the Reed family?"<br /> "A miraculous healer? Is he even worthy? Are healers so worthless now?"<br /> "A useless gent who mooches off of the Reed family? How dare he call himself a miraculous healer? Truly a joke among all jokes."<br /> Chapter 5 Compassionate Healer<br /> Amanda Kingsley, Quinn's granddaughter, stared coldly at Wesley and Mia.<br /> This lady, dressed in a smart suit, also held significant fame in Yeadeo, overseeing the region's business activities, including investment attraction and various local business negotiations.<br /> Amanda had a favorable view of Taylor, who had risen swiftly in recent times, and they had interacted frequently.<br /> She was aware of Wesley's existence and had advised Taylor to part ways with him early on.<br /> But Amanda never imagined that Mia would bring someone like Wesley, a complete waste, and claim he was a miraculous healer.<br /> Glaring at Mia, she said, "Mia, once my grandfather is well, it's best for your Roberts family to leave Yeadeo."<br /> "As for you..." She glanced at Wesley. "I will advise Taylor to divorce you. You have deceived Taylor's feelings and now shamelessly made your way into my family. You are a despicable creature."<br /> After reprimanding Mia and Wesley, she turned to an elderly gent beside her, and her tone and attitude completely changed. "Mr. Phillips, sorry to trouble you. My grandfather is inside, please."<br /> Mia looked at the elderly gent, who was already in his twilight years, feeling deeply shocked.<br /> Scott Phillips, the 38th generation heir of the Healing Clinic, was now ninety-two years old.<br /> Renowned as a miraculous healer, he was a respected figure in the medical community of Yeadeo and even nationally.<br /> He no longer conducted consultations personally due to his old age. Mia had visited him specifically to pay her respects once she had arrived in Yeadeo but had not met Scott.<br /> She never expected Scott to appear in person. It was understandable, as Quinn held a prominent position in the city. Despite the profound influence of the Phillips family, they still had to show respect to Quinn.<br /> Mia looked at Wesley, feeling conflicted and thinking, "Dad has confidently claimed that Wesley has extraordinary abilities, but does he really?"<br /> She harbored doubts, but out of propriety, Mia spoke. "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the trouble."<br /> Wesley smiled, "It's fine. As long as the person can be healed."<br /> His open-mindedness impressed Mia.<br /> After about half an hour, Amanda emerged from the room. All eyes instantly turned towards her.<br /> It was evident that Amanda had wailed out, with traces of tears still visible.<br /> "Amanda, how is it?" A middle-aged gent anxiously asked her.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family who had rushed back also focused their attention on her.<br /> "Mr. Phillips said that there's little hope of recovery. He could only use acupuncture to wake grandfather for half an hour. When grandfather wakes up, let's all go in and see if he has any final instructions."<br /> Everyone was shocked.<br /> "How could this be?"<br /> "Is Mr. Phillips also helpless?"<br /> The members of the Kingsley family found it hard to accept this reality, especially since Quinn had always treated his juniors well.<br /> The thought of Quinn departing saddened some, and tears silently fell.<br /> Publicly, Quinn's status was the foundation of the Kingsley family's prominence in Yeadeo.<br /> If Quinn were to pass away, the Kingsley family would undoubtedly decline.<br /> The atmosphere within the Kingsley family was somber.<br /> Amanda looked at her family members, opened her mouth, but said nothing, silently turning back into the room.<br /> "Stop crying," A middle-aged gent said sternly, "Dad wouldn't want to see you all in tears. If he's really leaving, we mustn't let him worry about us. Pull yourselves together."<br /> After these words, the middle-aged gent also entered the room.<br /> The younger members of the Kingsley family wiped their tears vigorously, trying to force smiles, but in truth, they looked better at crying than pretending to be happy.<br /> Mia's spirit plummeted as she realized the gravity of the situation. Even if an ordinary person passed away from consuming health supplements, it spelled big trouble for those who sold them. And when the deceased happened to be Quinn, the stakes were even higher.<br /> She understood that it would be difficult for this branch to stay in Yeadeo, and even the headquarters might face repercussions.<br /> "Let's go in and have a look." Wesley glanced at Mia. "There might still be a chance."<br /> "Ah..." Mia stared at Wesley in surprise. Seeing him already heading towards the room, she quickly followed suit.<br /> Inside the room, the members of the Kingsley family stood around the mattress, maintaining a certain distance.<br /> Scott lit the alcohol lamp and took out the needles, his expression solemn.<br /> He looked at the members of the Kingsley family. "Think about what you want to say to Mr. Kingsley later. Once you're ready, let me know, and then I'll proceed with the acupuncture."<br /> As he said this, tears welled up in many eyes.<br /> "If you don't mind, let me take a look. I have a way." Wesley spoke up, drawing everyone's attention.<br /> Amanda's face darkened. "Who let you in? Get out!"<br /> "Mia, have you lost your mind? Tricked by this trash and actually brought him here as a miracle healer. Get out with him! I'll settle the score with you in a couple of days."<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, at a loss for words.<br /> "Even Mr. Phillips is unable to reverse the situation. What use are you? Get out." Another younger member of the Kingsley family angrily rebuked.<br /> The middle-aged gent added, "We're in no mood right now. You better leave immediately."<br /> "I understand your narrow-mindedness," Wesley continued, "But as a healer, once I see a patient, I cannot stand by and watch him draw his last breath."<br /> "Wesley, you're quite the charlatan. Do you really want to be gone right now?" Amanda's voice was filled with anger.<br /> "Amanda, let me say a few words," Scott interjected, and Amanda fell silent.<br /> Looking at Wesley, Scott began. "Young lad, at my age, I've seen a lot and have a broad perspective. Today, however, I find it hard to remain indifferent. I practiced medicine from the age of sixteen until I stopped seeing patients for a total of seventy years."<br /> "I've saved countless patients from various illnesses. I never easily declare a patient's fate, nor do I believe I have the right to do so."<br /> "But from your recent remarks, it seems like you're accusing me of such actions. Young people wanting to make a name for themselves by stepping on the shoulders of their predecessors, I can understand."<br /> "But this kind of behavior displeases me."<br /> "My displeasure, what does it mean to you? Do you understand?"<br /> "Even if you are a healer, your career will be ruined because of this."<br /> Chapter 6 Hand of Hell<br /> In the face of Scott's veiled threats, Wesley simply smiled and brushed them off.<br /> Looking at Scott, he asked, "I've always focused on the issue at hand rather than attacking individuals. I have a few questions for you. If you can't administer the needles, how long do you think Quinn can hold on?"<br /> "Seven days, but he will remain unconscious," Scott replied bluntly.<br /> "Then let me ask you this, is there anyone in the world with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "Outrageous," Amanda coldly interjected, "Mr. Phillips is unparalleled in his medical expertise."<br /> Scott glanced at Amanda. "Amanda, let me handle this question."<br /> Continuing to address Wesley, he said, "I don't underestimate myself, nor do I overestimate. There are countless talented individuals in the world, like stars in the sky. I may not dare claim to be the best in medical skills, but those who surpass me are few."<br /> "That means there are some," Wesley calmly remarked, causing Scott's expression to shift slightly, "Indeed, there are."<br /> "Then let me ask you this. Do you think within seven days, the Kingsley family won't find someone with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "If they do find someone, do you believe there is an illness that you cannot cure, but this person can?"<br /> Wesley's questions were sharp and resounding.<br /> Scott's face changed once more as he was rendered speechless.<br /> "Even if there is, that person will never be you." Amanda's face turned icy. "Now get out. Don't spout your eloquence here. Your deceitful behavior is repulsive."<br /> "Your understanding of me is merely hearsay, isn't it?" Wesley retorted, his gaze mocking Amanda, "Has your background and education taught you such arrogance and prejudice?"<br /> "Arrogance?" Amanda's face grew colder as she disdainfully looked at Wesley. "Prejudice?<br /> "Did I say something wrong just now? You are nothing but stagnant waste, a parasite living off others. If it weren't for Taylor, you would have starved on the streets long ago."<br /> "Relying on sweet words, deceiving Taylor. She, with her kind heart, can't bear to divorce you, but don't push your luck. If it weren't for Taylor's sake, you would have been sent out long ago."<br /> Scott interrupted Amanda, "Amanda, although I find this lad a bit annoying, what he said does hold some truth. There are indeed individuals with better medical skills than me. Your grandfather can hold on for seven days. Try reaching out to see if someone can come over. I'll help you make connections."<br /> "If it really doesn't work out after seven days, I'll administer the needles to your grandfather. However, at that point, I can only buy you three minutes."<br /> As soon as Scott spoke, the faces of the Kingsley family members grew even more solemn. True healers were rare and not easily summoned.<br /> While the Kingsley family had connections in Yeadeo, their influence waned outside of it.<br /> "Mr. Phillips, please administer the needles. Life has its ups and downs, and we understand that. Just buy my father a bit more time." The middle-aged gent spoke up.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family nodded in agreement.<br /> Amanda looked at Scott. "Mr. Phillips, please."<br /> "In that case, please have everyone unrelated leave. I need silence," Scott calmly stated.<br /> Amanda glared at Wesley, her eyes speaking volumes without a word.<br /> The unrelated individuals were, naturally, Wesley and Mia.<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, intending to leave, but she suddenly hesitated.<br /> Instead of leaving, Wesley moved forward.<br /> "What are you doing?" A young member of the Kingsley family stepped forward with a stern expression, pushing Wesley.<br /> In one swift motion, Wesley executed a clean shoulder throw, toppling the young gent to the ground, his own expression turning cold.<br /> "A bunch of fools! If it weren't for my teacher's teachings about not turning a blind eye to those in need, I wouldn't bother with you ignorant lot," Wesley remarked with disdain.<br /> As Wesley effortlessly took down one individual from the Kingsley family, the others seemed slow to react.<br /> By the time they realized what was happening, Wesley had already picked up the needle next to Scott and casually flicked his wrist.<br /> The needle flew out of his hand, piercing Quinn's temple, followed by a second needle, a third needle, and so on.<br /> "What are you doing? Stop!" Amanda's voice rose in urgency, echoed by the rest of the Kingsley family members who rushed forward to restrain Wesley.<br /> "Stay back, everyone. Wait." Scott suddenly stood up, blocking the others. "Let him try."<br /> Amanda and the others were left dumbfounded, thinking, "What does this mean?"<br /> Despite their confusion, they heeded Scott's words.<br /> After Scott stopped the members of the Kingsley family, he fixed his gaze on Wesley.<br /> Wesley proceeded to use eighteen needles in succession, symbolizing the levels of pain.<br /> Even if someone had descended into the depths of hell, they must be brought back.<br /> The final needle, also piercing a vital point, caused Quinn's body to tremble suddenly, resonating with the previous eighteen needles.<br /> Scott's eyes widened, his body trembling slightly. His reaction left Amanda and the others even more puzzled, but none dared to interrupt.<br /> Moments later, Wesley placed a palm on Quinn's chest, causing all eighteen needles to be shaken off. When all the needles landed on the ground, the part of the skin where the needles had pierced turned dark.<br /> Wesley then dragged Quinn to the edge of the mattress, flipped him over with his head facing downwards, and gave him a firm pat on the back.<br /> Quinn spat out a mouthful of black liquid. When Wesley flipped him back to lie flat, his complexion had regained some color.<br /> "The Hand of Darkness... It's the Hand of Darkness!" Scott exclaimed with excitement, his body quivering, "It's the Hand that descends into the dark world, snatching people from the hands of the Evil!"<br /> "You do have some knowledge, recognizing the Hand of Darkness." Wesley glanced at Scott.<br /> Scott's gaze towards Wesley had undergone a drastic change. He respectfully clasped his hands together.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thirty years ago, I had the honor of attending a teaching conference held by Mr. Vanderbilt. I saw the Hand of Darkness, but my limited aptitude only allowed me to grasp the basics."<br /> "I have been blind and ignorant. I apologize for my earlier offenses. Please forgive me, Mr. Harrington."<br /> The Mr. Vanderbilt Scott referred to was Wesley's teacher, Ulysses Vanderbilt. He generously imparted his skills to others, but the ability to learn depended on one's innate talent.<br /> In this world, few could learn Ulysses' skills.<br /> Scott had been fortunate to receive guidance from Ulysses, which had elevated his medical skills. However, the Hand of Darkness, a miraculous ability, was beyond his comprehension.<br /> Wesley smiled faintly, "Your actions earlier are understandable. I appreciate your words."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you must be an exceptional disciple of Mr. Vanderbilt, possessing unparalleled magnanimity. Impressive," Scott continued.<br /> "Enough with the flattery at your age."<br /> "You are mistaken, Mr. Harrington. Every word I speak is sincere."<br /> Mia, Amanda, and the others stood bewildered by the unfolding situation.<br /> "Mr. Phillips... he... he..." Amanda's words faltered.<br /> Scott turned to the members of the Kingsley family. "Meeting Mr. Harrington was Quinn's luck. His symptoms have been cured by Mr. Harrington. With a few days of rest, he will be fine."<br /> The waste Taylor had previously said was called Mr. Harrington by Scott!<br /> Recalling their previous attitudes, Amanda hurriedly apologized, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> The members of the Kingsley family all apologized in unison, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> Chapter 7 Eight Plates of Noodles<br /> With a faint smile, Wesley remarked, "As family members of a patient, your actions earlier are understandable. There's no need for such formality."<br /> Amanda's perplexity deepened as she thought, "Where is the cowardly waste that Taylor described? This display of magnanimity and breadth is far from it."<br /> Mia, too, felt a shiver of realization, thinking, "No wonder Dad has insisted on my proximity to Wesley.<br /> This guy..."<br /> She gazed at Wesley, her curiosity piqued, a sense of exploration stirring within her.<br /> "Mia has brought you here, Mr. Harrington, to cure my grandfather. The Kingsley family will never forget this act. However, considering that my grandfather's ailment stemmed from the health supplements produced by the Vinver Business Alliance, we will be conducting an investigation into it."<br /> Amanda continued, looking at Wesley, "What do you think... of this approach?"<br /> It was Mia who had invited Wesley, so Amanda had grown wiser, refraining from asking for a direct punishment of the Vinver Business Alliance.<br /> As Mia heard Amanda's words, her heart skipped a beat, realizing trouble was brewing.<br /> "On the way here, Ms. Roberts briefed me on the situation. You conducted experiments on mice, correct?"<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes, the health supplements we received were exclusively provided by the Roberts family. There were no similar cases on the market, so we used mice for testing.<br /> "All the mice that ingested this supplement were gone."<br /> She looked at Mia and added, her voice turned colder. "Before the experiment, I specifically contacted Mia to inquire about the testing methods during the development phase, which involved mice."<br /> "There have been individuals eyeing my grandfather's position, some even wishing for his demise. I never imagined that the Vinver Business Alliance, which I attracted for investment, would become a weapon in someone else's hands."<br /> "Do you have any of the remaining medicine?" Wesley inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes."<br /> "Bring some over."<br /> Immediately, someone fetched the medicine. After it was brought to him, Wesley took out a supplement and swallowed it directly.<br /> This scene left Amanda and the others dumbfounded.<br /> Scott, too, was bewildered. "Mr. Harrington, what are you doing?"<br /> Wesley smiled, "Just proving that this medicine is not toxic."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thank you," Mia thanked sincerely, feeling like sobbing at that moment.<br /> Amanda, with a puzzled expression, looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, are you suggesting that my grandfather's condition wasn't caused by the Vinver Business Alliance's medicine? What about the mice?"<br /> The rest were equally puzzled.<br /> "Yes, but not entirely," Wesley said, leaving everyone even more bewildered.<br /> Mia's emotions were like a rollercoaster ride, from relief to immediate tension.<br /> "This medicine itself is not toxic, but when taken with another substance made from a certain plant, it results in Quinn's condition. The mice would die immediately, while humans could endure a few more days."<br /> Wesley continued to explain, "The plant used in this concoction is originally meant for crafting slow-acting toxins, not for human consumption."<br /> Looking at Amanda, Wesley said, "During this period, whoever had access to your grandfather and the mice will better understand why these events occurred."<br /> The gaze of members of the Kingsley family immediately focused on a lady.<br /> Amanda, somewhat incredulous, looked at her. "Can you offer an explanation?"<br /> The lady was the wife of Amanda's deceased brother. She found it hard to accept, as did the rest of the Kingsley family.<br /> This lady had been named the exemplary lady who served her family well this year, not due to her connection with the Kingsley family but because she genuinely deserved it.<br /> "What do you mean? Amanda, what explanation do you want from me?"<br /> The lady stared at Amanda. "Am I the only one who had access to Grandfather and the mice? You, and you... and you, who didn't have access?"<br /> "You all claim to treat me as family. Since I married into the Kingsley family, I have worked diligently, contributing my share even if not acknowledged."<br /> "Amanda, it has been over a year since your brother passed, and I never once considered remarrying. Now, just because of his words, you demand an explanation from me?"<br /> Pointing at Wesley, the lady questioned, "Just because he accuses me of poisoning, you suspect me? Tell me, did I poison him?" The lady glared at Wesley.<br /> "I am merely analyzing the facts. As for concluding this case, it's not within my purview," Wesley addressed the members of the Kingsley family, saying, "You should conduct a thorough investigation into this matter.<br /> "I will write a prescription. Have Quinn take it on time, and he will recover in seven days."<br /> Amanda hurried to fetch paper and pen while Wesley prepared the prescription. Once done, he was ready to leave.<br /> Amanda said hurriedly, "Mr. Harrington, I've already made arrangements for lunch."<br /> "No need," Wesley smiled.<br /> The Kingsley family sought to build closer ties with Wesley, given his extraordinary medical skills. Wesley was well aware of this.<br /> Looking at Amanda and the others, Wesley remarked, "In the future, if you encounter any difficult medical cases that others cannot solve, seek me out. Remember, cases others cannot solve."<br /> The gaze of the Kingsley family members toward Wesley changed once again. Many renowned healers had eccentric personalities and were difficult to engage.<br /> They hadn't expected Wesley to possess such remarkable medical skills without any airs.<br /> As Wesley prepared to depart, the members of the Kingsley family did not dare to insist on his stay, so they accompanied him outside.<br /> "Oh, how could we forget such an important matter? Amanda, what about the consultation fee?" The middle-aged gent inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the oversight. Please wait a moment." Amanda hurried back inside and soon returned with a bank card in hand.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, there's one million dollars in here."<br /> Without hesitation, Wesley accepted the bank card and boarded Mia's car.<br /> During the journey, Mia boldly looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, you've helped me immensely. Can I treat you to a meal? Don't decline in a hurry. It's not a fancy restaurant, but it will leave you wanting more. It's a small place on the street, with only eight plates of noodles served each day, each plate containing different ingredients."<br /> "I managed to secure a reservation. Are you interested?"<br /> Wesley thought, "Eight Plates of Noodles?<br /> "Ah, Aaron's restaurant. It has been a while since I visited those old friends."<br /> Wesley nodded. "Let's go then."<br /> The restaurant, Eight Plates of Noodles, was located on Chanxold Street near the Yeadeo First Central Hospital.<br /> The establishment was small, serving only eight plates of noodles each day at a price of 10 thousand dollars each. Vernoic's television culinary program had specifically covered this incident.<br /> Reservations were a must to secure a plate.<br /> The restaurant's owner had a mysterious background. While the specifics were unknown, a high-ranking noble from the capital of Vernoic, Kingsland, had caused a scene there once.<br /> He had attempted to force his way in without a reservation. Although this incident hadn't been reported, rumors suggested that a garbage truck had to be called to dispose of the intruder's remains, as he was too shattered to be removed by conventional means.<br /> Since then, no one dared to cause trouble.<br /> On their way, Mia introduced Wesley to the background story.<br /> "Mr. Turner, two plates of noodles." Mia called out once they arrived.<br /> Aaron Turner didn't respond but visibly paused upon seeing Wesley beside Mia.<br /> A faint smile appeared on his usually stoic face. Though the flesh on the face seemed stiff, it was indeed a smile. "Coming right up."<br /> Chapter 8 You Are Blushing<br /> Mia glanced at Aaron with a hint of surprise, thinking, "When does he become so warm and enthusiastic?<br /> His tone seemed a bit agitated earlier, didn't it?"<br /> Soon enough, Aaron brought two plates of noodles to the table. One steaming hot and the other devoid of any warmth.<br /> As Mia observed Aaron placing the plate without steam in front of Wesley, her expression changed slightly.<br /> It was a plate of instant noodles having soaked in cold water, with the seasoning barely dissolved.<br /> She felt a sense of panic. Mia had wanted to leave a good impression on Wesley, which was why she had chosen this place.<br /> However, Aaron had served such a plate of noodles.<br /> She dared not question Aaron. The type of noodles served here was not determined by the guests but by Aaron's mood.<br /> "This lass named Mia is quite something, living up to her name, and quite kind-hearted," Aaron remarked, looking at Wesley.<br /> "Get lost," Wesley retorted, using his fork to pick up the noodles and devouring them.<br /> Mia's face turned pale instantly. Disrespecting Aaron was akin to risking Wesley's life.<br /> To her astonishment, Aaron chuckled, tears welling up in his eyes.<br /> He wiped them away. "Alright, I'll leave you to your meal."<br /> Before departing, he gave Mia a thumbs-up. "Seize the opportunity."<br /> The eight plates of noodles symbolized the eight comrades who had faced life and hardships together.<br /> Wesley ate voraciously. Initially, they had only one pack of instant noodles to share among the eight of them, forcing them to divide it.<br /> Despite the circumstances, they devoured the noodles joyfully.<br /> Aaron had promised that once they survived, each one would have the most delicious plate of noodles.<br /> However, five of the eight had perished.<br /> Wesley had come dangerously close to life-threatening situations, but managed to cling to life.<br /> For him, the plate of noodles was not food but the bond of friendship that had shielded him from harm.<br /> "Do you... know each other?" Mia couldn't help but ask, her voice low and curious.<br /> "Some things are better left unknown," Wesley replied.<br /> Mia nodded in understanding, falling silent as they continued eating noodles. She couldn't help stealing glances at Wesley throughout the meal.<br /> This gent had piqued her curiosity even more.<br /> "Wesley, I see. No wonder you agreed to the divorce so readily. You've already found someone else outside."<br /> A sharp voice interrupted their meal.<br /> Taylor approached with a cold expression, accompanied by Henry.<br /> Taylor's mother was in the nearby hospital, and she had just picked up Frank, planning to buy some food when she unexpectedly saw Wesley.<br /> Of course, she saw Mia, too.<br /> Seeing Wesley dining with a lady more attractive than herself, so soon after the divorce felt like a dagger twisting in Taylor's heart.<br /> Her anger was uncontrollable.<br /> Wesley merely glanced at Taylor, disinterested in engaging with her.<br /> Taylor was stung by his indifferent gaze. She stepped forward, glaring at Wesley. "Are you not going to explain to me?"<br /> Mia looked at Taylor, silently cursing her as a foolish lady.<br /> Wesley continued eating his noodles, lowering his head. "Get lost. Don't disturb me, or I won't hesitate to hit you."<br /> "What did you say?" Henry stepped forward, enraged. "Wesley, try laying a hand on her! Is that all you're capable of? Laying hands on ladies?"<br /> "No wonder Taylor looks down on you. You're truly disgusting trash. Apologize to Taylor now, or else you'll regret coming into this world."<br /> "And how will he regret it? Tell me." Aaron emerged, carrying a cleaver, smiling as he faced Henry and Taylor.<br /> "Mr. Turner, we dare not cause trouble in your place, but this guy is just..."<br /> Henry attempted to speak but was cut off as Aaron's cleaver struck his face, sending him sprawling to the ground.<br /> "Mr. Turner, sorry, we'll leave now." Taylor hastily helped Henry up and hurriedly left.<br /> These two individuals were fortunate to know the legendary story behind Eight Plates of Noodles and had successfully made reservations to dine here multiple times.<br /> Having distanced themselves a bit, Henry covered his face and pointed at Wesley. "Wesley, we have some unfinished business. If you're smart, come over here now and apologize."<br /> "Wesley, I've seen through you as well. I never expected that for the past five years, you've been using my money to keep a lady on the side. We'll settle the score slowly."<br /> As the two noticed Aaron glancing their way, they quickly shut their mouths and hurriedly left.<br /> Once they were out of eyeshots, Aaron fixed his gaze on Wesley. "Your dad doesn't know about your divorce yet, does he?"<br /> "What difference would it make if he did?" Wesley stretched lazily. "I've fulfilled my promise. I've given enough."<br /> Aaron nodded in acknowledgment without saying anything further.<br /> This piqued Mia's curiosity even more. "Is it like what the novels depict? Did you marry Taylor due to some special event?"<br /> Seeing Wesley's glare, Mia lowered her head to focus on her noodles. "I won't ask anymore."<br /> "For the past five years, you've been staying in the stairwell. It has been hard for you, but at least you're still untouched," Aaron remarked before swiftly departing.<br /> Mia stared at Wesley in disbelief, realizing that Aaron's words were meant for her ears.<br /> "What are you staring at? Eat your noodles," Wesley said. Mia chuckled.<br /> "Why are you laughing?"<br /> "You're blushing."<br /> "Nonsense," Wesley retorted.<br /> Unable to contain herself, Mia burst into laughter. She had tried to hold it in, but seeing Wesley's flushed face made it impossible.<br /> Ten minutes later, Mia left on her own accord, sensing that Wesley had something to discuss with Aaron.<br /> Inside Aaron's small shop, Wesley opened a bottle of wine. "Still single?"<br /> "I look too old, no one's interested," Aaron replied, opening a bottle of liquor as well.<br /> "Then why are you meddling in my love lives?"<br /> "Leave a child behind, even if you pass away, someone will remember you." Aaron took a sip. "I've actually investigated this Mia."<br /> "You investigated her?"<br /> "I knew you'd get a divorce. I've been keeping an eye on the pretty ones. This girl had done a lot of good deeds before coming to Yeadeo. Once, she saved three people in a flood and nearly lost her life. Opportunities are rare. You have to seize them."<br /> "When you've figured things out and are ready to marry, then we can discuss our affairs. That's the condition." Wesley downed the entire bottle of liquor.<br /> "Otherwise, don't bother meddling. We're on a one-way path and can't drag others along."<br /> "You..." Aaron sighed as he watched Wesley's retreating figure.<br /> On the road leading to the Feidgeuo Manor, Taylor stood gazing blankly at the entrance not far away.<br /> Twice in one day, she had come here.<br /> The first time was to pick up Frank, and this time was because Frank had lost his expensive watch. She and Henry hadn't even had a meal, rushing over to find it.<br /> The first time, she had come in a hurry when Frank was injured and left quickly as well.<br /> But this time, as Taylor looked at the entrance ahead, an infinite longing sprouted within her.<br /> "If only... I could live here, how wonderful that would be."<br /> Henry looked at her. "One day, I'll definitely build an estate more magnificent than this, and you'll be the lady of the house."<br /> As they conversed, a taxi drove by, stopping at the entrance. The person who got out of the taxi left Taylor stunned.<br /> She rubbed her eyes. | Adoread | 478 | https://facebook.com/61556400142540 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713682800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846711 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446607 | 1735168081 | 890 | 1700818443659091 | 1 | 1.1646586514952E+15 | 1713769200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 226177680578601 | 0 | Adoread | 120207811554700265 | client.adoread.com | Learn more | NONE | image | 🔥🔥🔥 Read More👉 | Hottest novel👉👉👉 | https://client.adoread.com/book/loading/page/adoread/19161308412?utm_campaign={{campaign.id}}&utm_content={{campaign.name}} | 1713710197 | 2.261776805786E+14 | Adoread | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439755586_1803011836844474_6137525718417294590_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MPp-EaTJhGMQ7kNvgFDB39G&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAvTya5WNHyGIIWvHK14qCMrieBZ-ftP7DVTd8uzRWDfA&oe=666406B2 | person_profile | 0 | Adoread | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437100160_1504449816807307_8876218648802913966_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6NB75CMmbyoQ7kNvgGF3mBN&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDdjjZZp-K6IirzdJMHmDM9NBBvf8LzwtmRDdYdg_Rdfw&oe=66640F25 | 0 | 3 | "Wesley, are you trying to harm me? You useless piece of trash, can't even make a decent cup of coffee, can you?"<br /> Madison Blair lifted her coffee cup and splashed it directly onto Wesley Harrington's face.<br /> "What are you looking at, you spineless waste? Your name sounds so lofty? I might as well call you a waste."<br /> Glancing at the grotesque expression of his wife's mother, Wesley pulled out his phone to check the time.<br /> Exactly twelve o'clock. It had been five full years since he married Taylor Reed.<br /> The appointed time had come.<br /> He had fulfilled his promise, safeguarding the Reed family for five years, transforming them from a family living off fishing to one perceived as affluent by the common folk.<br /> Wiping the coffee off his face, he turned and walked away.<br /> "Where do you think you're going? Go fetch some more coffee," Madison shouted.<br /> "Madison, didn't you say this waste is obedient at home, doing whatever he's told? I don't think he's taking it lying down."<br /> Madison grew angrier. "Wesley, you stop right there. My family has fed and housed you. If you dare disobey, I'll have you thrown out!"<br /> Ignoring her, Wesley continued downstairs.<br /> "When Taylor comes back, I'll immediately have you two divorced. Do you hear me? Stay right there," Madison threatened, "I'll let you know your place today."<br /> Grabbing a golf club, Madison swiftly charged towards Wesley.<br /> Seeing Wesley heading downstairs, she swung the club viciously at his back.<br /> Without turning back, Wesley gently sidestepped.<br /> Losing her balance, Madison tumbled forward, rolling down the stairs with a series of thumps.<br /> "Ouch... it hurts, it hurts so much!"<br /> As Madison reached the ground floor, she wailed in pain and her sister immediately rushed to her.<br /> "Wesley, what have you done? How dare you hit my sister!" Madison's sister hurried down, checking on Madison's condition.<br /> Wesley remained silent, observing the scene.<br /> "Quick, call Taylor. Tell her to come back. Today, she must divorce this waste." Madison glared at Wesley. "How dare you hit me? Not only will I let Taylor divorce you, but I'll make sure you leave in disgrace."<br /> "Mum, what's wrong?" At that moment, a gent and a lady walked in.<br /> The lady was Taylor, Madison's daughter.<br /> She ran towards Madison.<br /> As Madison pointed at Wesley, tears streamed down her face. "Taylor, he hit me, he hit me! When you're not home, he changes his attitude, scolding and hitting me in the slightest displeasure. He even pushed me down the stairs just now. Alexis can testify."<br /> Madison's sister, Alexis Blair, chimed in. "Yes, Wesley, this trash not only hit your mother but also threatened to hit me too. We cannot tolerate such trash."<br /> "Taylor, I have been telling you to divorce him for years. You've been supporting him, treating him like a Lord at home, but he's an ungrateful wolf in sheep's clothing."<br /> Helping Madison up, Taylor noticed the scrapes on Madison's arms and legs, her expression turning cold.<br /> "Wesley, why did you hit my mother? You better give me an explanation."<br /> Wesley looked at Taylor, his wife.<br /> Five years had passed, and she had never shown him kindness.<br /> Taylor dressed impeccably, a paragon of a successful lady, with a face that could be deemed angelic, yet whether her heart was as angelic remained a mystery.<br /> Her figure, too, left countless men yearning.<br /> For five years, Wesley had thought he might develop feelings for this lady, but in reality, it never happened.<br /> "There are surveillance cameras in the house," Wesley stated calmly before descending the stairs into the hallway.<br /> Despite residing in a three-story villa, Wesley's living quarters were confined to the stairwell.<br /> He harbored no resentment towards this arrangement. It was merely a promise. It was just that Taylor failed to appreciate him.<br /> This home held little value that he wished to cling onto.<br /> Retrieving a wooden box from beneath his pillow, Wesley extracted two documents. Casting a fleeting glance at the modest abode he had called home for five years, Wesley smiled faintly.<br /> He thought, "Finally... I'm free."<br /> Pushing the door ajar, Wesley was met by Taylor's piercing gaze. "I've reviewed the surveillance footage. Yes, my mother intended to strike you, but even if she did, what difference would it make?"<br /> "She's a lady. How much could her blows hurt you? Why did you dodge?"<br /> "If you hadn't dodged, my mother wouldn't have tumbled down." Wesley stared at Taylor, unable to comprehend her thought process.<br /> He had no interest in engaging in these arguments. Handing over the two documents to Taylor, he remarked, "The divorce agreement. I've already signed it. Take a look. I'm leaving with nothing."<br /> "With your current influence, there's no need for you to visit the city hall. Someone will handle it for you, right?"<br /> Madison was taken aback. She swiftly snatched the divorce agreement, flipping through it hastily.<br /> The contents were indeed straightforward. Both parties willingly divorced, with Wesley relinquishing all claims and having already signed.<br /> In an instant, Madison's pain seemed to dissipate. "Taylor, sign it quickly. Sign it."<br /> Taylor was still in a daze.<br /> She pondered.<br /> "A divorce agreement? Wesley has already prepared a divorce agreement. On what grounds?"<br /> "What gives him the right to initiate a divorce? All these years, he's done nothing at home, lacking any ambition. Always practicing martial arts, what right does he have to seek a divorce?"<br /> "If anyone should initiate it, it should be me. Moreover, now that I'm back to discussing this matter with him. Could it be that word got out, and Wesley, for the sake of his pride, rushed to prepare a divorce agreement first?"<br /> "It must be so, but... No!"<br /> "Wanting to leave with nothing, is he retreating to advance? As the chairman of the Reed Group, how could I be served with a divorce?"<br /> "Hey Wesley, I never expected this from you. Have I not treated you well enough? You seek a divorce, attempting to turn your retreat into advance, aiming to embarrass me?"<br /> Taylor glared at Wesley. "I'm telling you, it's impossible."<br /> Snatching the divorce agreement, she tore it to shreds.<br /> "Taylor, what are you doing? Such a great opportunity. Why not just sign it and let him leave?" Madison grew anxious.<br /> "Mom, I do intend to divorce this trash, but the decision must come from me. I returned specifically to address this matter."<br /> With that, Taylor produced two documents. "Wesley, remember that it's me who's divorcing you. It's me who no longer wants you. Initially, out of marital obligation, I had considered offering you some compensation. Now, you don't even need to think about it. Sign the divorce agreement and leave my home."<br /> Wesley offered a faint smile as he accepted the divorce agreement.<br /> "What are you laughing at?" Taylor demanded angrily.<br /> Wesley's smile seemed to mock her, fueling her rage.<br /> Ignoring her entirely, Wesley signed the document and handed it over.<br /> "What are you laughing at? Answer me! Who do you think you are?" Taylor roared once more.<br /> Wesley glanced at her before striding towards the exit.<br /> "Stop!" The gent who had accompanied Taylor stepped forward, blocking Wesley's path. "Taylor asked you a question, and... Your previous attitude displeased me. Apologize to Taylor, or I'll have you leave in disgrace!"<br /> Chapter 2 The Unspoken Truth<br /> <br /> "Yes, let him leave in disgrace. He thought he could just hit me and walk away so easily," Madison joined in the commotion, also noticing the gent blocking Wesley's path.<br /> Madison had a keen interest in luxury goods, having frequented various high-end establishments over the years as the Reed family's living conditions improved. The gent was wearing an expensive watch and dressed head to toe in high-end luxury brands.<br /> Seeing Madison's gaze, the gent spoke. "Rest assured, today Wesley must pay the price."<br /> The gent introduced himself, looking at Wesley, "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Henry Clark, the eldest son of the Clark family and the general manager of the Clark Group in the North District."<br /> "From now on, I will accompany Taylor on her journey of life, and I will not allow anyone to bully her."<br /> "My identity carries weight. You should understand that. Now, apologize to Taylor. Apologize! Did you hear me? Apologize!"<br /> Madison's eyes lit up. She hadn't expected the gent before her to hold such a high status. She continued to shout, "Did you hear that? Taylor will be with Mr. Clark from now on. Apologize now."<br /> Wesley glanced at Henry, then at Taylor. He thought, "Have they been together all along?" Wesley had wanted to ask but decided against it because there was no need. He simply gave them a glance and continued walking towards the exit.<br /> "Are you ignoring me?" Henry's face turned cold as he reached out to grab Wesley. Henry's hand froze mid-air as he received a solid hit.<br /> "Until I sign the divorce papers, Taylor and I are still wife and husband. I don't care to investigate whether you two had any intimate relationship during that time, but don't provoke me, or I won't hesitate to make you regret it." Wesley's gaze was icy, and as Henry met his eyes, he felt a twinge of fear and swallowed his words.<br /> Taylor was also stunned. She knew exactly what Wesley had been like over the past five years. There were many surveillance cameras in the house, and she would often check them.<br /> Even when Taylor wasn't home, despite how her family treated Wesley, he always obeyed without complaint, especially towards her. He had never raised his voice, no matter how they treated him.<br /> Today, not only did Wesley dodge when her mother struck, but he also initiated the divorce and now even struck Henry. <br /> Taylor was at a loss for words, thinking, "How could this cowardly gent dare? On what grounds does he dare?"<br /> This change was difficult for Taylor to accept as if she didn't truly understand this guy. The gent who used to be obedient to her, completely submissive, now revealed this side of himself. She watched Wesley walk away in a daze, feeling a strange discomfort in her heart.<br /> "Isn't he leaving with nothing?" Alexis pointed at the wooden box Wesley was holding. "What is he taking with him?"<br /> Madison also realized. Over the past five years, Wesley had always treasured this wooden box, carrying it with him wherever he went. She thought there must be something valuable inside.<br /> Realizing this, Madison hurriedly followed. "Wesley, stop right there, leave the wooden box."<br /> Wesley paused, glanced at Madison, and said, "This is my personal belonging."<br /> "Nonsense, what personal belonging could you possibly have after marrying into the Reed family? Everything you've eaten, worn, and lived in over the years has been provided by the Reed family. Put it down."<br /> As she spoke, Madison reached out to grab the wooden box.<br /> "Ah..." A scream rang out as Madison quickly retracted her hand, a gash appearing on her palm, a crimson liquid dripping.<br /> The wooden box was now stained with the same crimson liquid, trembling lightly in Wesley's hand.<br /> "It's not the right time yet, the day you thirst for this crimson liquid will come," Wesley murmured softly, patting the box before turning to continue his stride towards the exit.<br /> "Monster! A monster!" Madison screamed, causing Taylor and the others to rush out. Seeing the wound in Madison's hand, Taylor was filled with rage.<br /> "Wesley, aren't you going to say something?" Wesley halted once more, contemplating before meeting Taylor's gaze.<br /> "Just stay out of my way from now on. Consider this a warning to you."<br /> "Taylor, that wooden box of his has a mechanism. It must hold something valuable! We can't let him take it with him," Madison, enduring the pain, reminded them.<br /> "Mom, your injury is important. We'll deal with him later. Let me take you to the hospital first." Taylor comforted Madison before calling out to the retreating Wesley.<br /> "Our marriage is over! Yet, you dared to hurt my mother! This won't be the end of it! I will make you regret it!" Ignoring her, Wesley continued walking out.<br /> "Rest assured, I promise he won't see the light of day tomorrow." Henry stepped forward to console. "Let's focus on getting your wound treated first."<br /> "I want him to regret ever existing in this world, to apologize to me in repentance," Madison roared.<br /> "Mom, trust me, I will make him do just that." Taylor looked at Madison with a mix of pity and determination. "Let's go to the hospital first."<br /> In the villa area, Wesley halted, his voice cold. "Get out."<br /> An elderly gent leaped down from a tree, appearing to be in his seventies, yet landing silently from a height of around ten feet.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, your father wants you to come home and take charge."<br /> "He stopped being my father five years ago. He's my enemy."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you misunderstood your father. He had his reasons back then. I swear in my life, once you know the truth, you will forgive him."<br /> "Huh!" Wesley smirked coldly, saying, "I nearly passed away back then. Is that also a misunderstanding?"<br /> The old gent pleaded, "Mr. Harrington, this situation is truly not as you perceive it."<br /> Wesley didn't engage further with the old guy. The events of that year were etched in his memory forever. He was the one who had been abandoned. If not for that incident, why would he have stayed with the Reed family for five years?<br /> Watching Wesley walk away, the old gent had tears silently streaming down his face. "Mr. Harrington, I truly... I truly can't bring myself to speak the truth, but you have misunderstood your father. He also bears burdens and endures pains beyond what an ordinary person can handle."<br /> As Wesley's figure disappeared, the old gent stood up, hesitated for a moment, then dialed a number on his phone.<br /> "Mr. Harrington is now divorced. I've given you the news firsthand. If your daughter is truly together with Mr. Harrington, you must fulfill the promise and let her persuade Mr. Harrington to come home."<br /> After hanging up, a middle-aged gent in a luxurious estate jumped up excitedly. Calming himself, he immediately made another call. "My dear, you're at Yeadeo, right?<br /> "Go find Wesley now. Don't mention the engagement for now. Use every means to get close to him, make him fall in love with you."<br /> "Dad, I don't have time."<br /> "No matter what you are busy with, you must go find Wesley now. No matter what reason you approach him, you must leave a good impression the first time."<br /> "Dad, I'm in trouble right now. If I don't handle it well, I might be good as gone. I have to deal with it immediately. I'm hanging up."<br /> Chapter 3 You're Nothing<br /> The middle-aged gent's voice lowered significantly. "Is there a big incident happening? You didn't tell me? What happened?"<br /> "Quinn Kingsley from Yeadeo, Mr. Kingsley, used our product and now has one foot on the grave. If something really happens to him..."<br /> "You mean Quinn, the uncontested leader of Yeadeo?"<br /> "Yes."<br /> "In that case, you should go find Wesley. Trust me, in this world, there is no problem that Wesley can't solve. As long as he's willing to help, you'll be fine. Listen to me, go find Wesley immediately."<br /> The lady fell silent for a moment before saying, "Okay."<br /> At Yeadeo Harbor, a gent with a large flaxen chain and a watch, sporting a crew cut, hurriedly disembarked, accompanied by a dozen gentlemen.<br /> "Mr. Reed, wherever that trash is, we will find him and tear him apart."<br /> "Yes, that guy dared to harm your mother. We'll make sure he pays for it."<br /> Frank Reed's face turned cold. "Wesley, you coward, thinking you can overturn the world? How dare you touch my mom? Just wait until I find you, you're finished."<br /> "We've found him. Wesley got into a taxi, and our boys followed him."<br /> "Let's go!" Frank waved his hand, leading dozens of men who boarded the car with harpoons, steel pipes, and other weapons.<br /> Inside the taxi, Wesley gazed at the scenery outside, feeling a strange sense of tranquility.<br /> He thought to himself, "I never imagined that while I was secretly paving the way for the Reed family, Taylor, after progressing so rapidly, would start looking down on me more and more."<br /> "Those ladies who know my true identity, which one of them isn't trying to throw themselves at me? Ladies like that don't interest me."<br /> "Being an ordinary gent is truly difficult," Wesley murmured, smiling faintly and deciding not to dwell on these matters anymore. He had important things to attend to and no time to waste on personal affairs.<br /> "Young lad, are you going to Feidgeuo Manor for a job interview?" The driver, curious about Wesley's destination, inquired.<br /> Feidgeuo Manor was Yeadeo's most mysterious private area. Originally a villa area, it was bought at a huge cost five years ago and completely renovated. It was said to have cost a trillion dollars. The former villa area was now Feidgeuo Manor.<br /> "That's my home," Wesley replied nonchalantly.<br /> The driver was taken aback by this revelation, silently cursing Wesley for bragging. After a couple of minutes, the driver regained his composure. "It seems like you and I both prefer to keep a low profile. My car usually gathers dust at home, so I occasionally drive a taxi to experience life."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "My car has been driven by my assistant for the past few years, so it's not gathering dust."<br /> "Haha..." The driver laughed. "We should get together sometime and see whose car is more impressive."<br /> "Sure, whenever we have the time."<br /> As they chatted, the vehicle soon arrived near Feidgeuo Manor, where the massive head of the Feidgeuo Peak protruded, creating a unique landscape in Yeadeo.<br /> The driver asked with a smile, "Since you're the owner here, it's fine if I drive in, right?"<br /> "Of course," Wesley replied.<br /> As soon as Wesley spoke, several cars caught up from behind.<br /> The cars surrounded the one Wesley was in, with the front vehicles braking to force the car to a stop.<br /> When numerous people descended from cars wielding harpoons and steel pipes, the driver's face paled.<br /> Frank and his group got out of the cars, instantly closing in, and without hesitation, started attacking, the steel pipes and harpoons thudding against the car.<br /> Frank's henchman yanked open the door of Wesley's car, poised to stab Wesley with a harpoon, but Wesley swiftly exited the vehicle.<br /> With a firm step on the ground, he launched a swift hit.<br /> A muffled sound echoed as the henchman was hit away.<br /> "What are you looking at?" Frank noticed his henchmen were all staring at him. "All of you, attack together and take him down!"<br /> As he commanded, the henchmen Frank brought with him surged forward.<br /> The taxi driver, trembling, took out his phone to call the police, but Frank glared at him. "I am Frank Reed from Yeadeo Harbor. If you dare, go ahead and make that call."<br /> Frank, leveraging his sister Taylor's status, had been causing trouble in Yeadeo Harbor, and no one dared to provoke him.<br /> Upon hearing Frank's name, the driver hastily put away his phone. "Mr. Reed, I'll just check the time, you guys continue."<br /> "Huh!" Frank snorted coldly, casting his gaze towards the surrounded Wesley.<br /> The sounds of thuds continued to ring out incessantly. Because Wesley was completely surrounded, Frank was unable to see the situation inside clearly, but he could imagine it. After all, in Frank's mind, the henchmen under his command were not to be trifled with.<br /> "Hit him hard for me!"<br /> Another muffled sound and a figure flew out. At that moment, Frank finally saw the situation clearly, and his face turned pale.<br /> Frank knew that Wesley liked to practice martial arts, but he had never expected Wesley to be this skilled. It wasn't Wesley who had been beaten, but his own men by Wesley alone.<br /> Frantically, Frank turned and ran to retrieve a crossbow from the car.<br /> "Clear the way." Frank bellowed, aiming the crossbow at Wesley.<br /> "You scumbag, you think you can fight? Move one more time, and I'll end your life! Surrender!"<br /> Wesley, holding a wooden box, stared at Frank. Ignoring the crossbow in his hand, Wesley said, "Tell your henchmen to back off, or you'll all see the light from above!"<br /> "You're really good at pretending to be tough." Frank took two steps forward. "See the light? Move a muscle and see if I can end your life or not! If you don't have the guts, apologize now!"<br /> Wesley turned his head and looked at the approaching cars, with two expensive ones in the lead, two more in the rear, and another one in the middle.<br /> "Keep acting tough, and I'll put a hole in your head." Frank spoke while glancing at the five cars. "What, looking for help?"<br /> "Let me tell you, those who ride in these cars are not the kind of weaklings like you who rely on connections. With me here, in Yeadeo's social hierarchy, even those who ride in such cars wouldn't dare meddle in this matter. And let me make it clear, without my sister, you're nothing."<br /> Chapter 4 Is He Worthy?<br /> As Frank's words faded, the five cars came to a halt.<br /> A bodyguard opened the door of the one in the middle, revealing a dazzling pair of shining shoes catching everyone's eye.<br /> The shining shoe encased a beautiful foot. Above, the skirt's hem was adorned with lace.<br /> Then, like a fairy stepping out of a painting, she appeared before everyone's eyes.<br /> The lady was beautiful!<br /> Frank was mesmerized. Ever since the Reed family rose to prominence, he had been surrounded by ladies, but compared to the elegant lady before him, they were worlds apart.<br /> It wasn't just a difference in appearance but an incomparable gap in demeanor.<br /> The lady descending from the Maybach seemed like a celestial being untouched by mortal affairs.<br /> The embodiment of a fairy in the mundane world.<br /> She simply stood there after getting out of the car, perfectly embodying what it meant to be graceful and elegant.<br /> The lady glanced at Wesley, then at Frank.<br /> Frank grinned, saying, "May I have the honor of knowing the name of this esteemed lady? I am Frank..."<br /> The lady spoke calmly. "Disrespect Mr. Harrington, and you're done for."<br /> Her bodyguards, unfazed by Frank's crossbow, swiftly overwhelmed him, sending him crashing to the ground.<br /> The henchmen who had come with Frank, previously defeated by Wesley, now scrambled to their feet and fled in all directions.<br /> Who would dare provoke someone who could afford such a car?<br /> "My sister is Taylor Reed, the chairperson of Reed Group," Frank shouted, clutching his head.<br /> Ignoring him, one of the bodyguards dragged him to the roadside grass while another used a belt to tighten around Frank's neck, exerting pressure.<br /> "Enough, a lesson is all that's needed." Wesley spoke calmly, and only when the lady gestured did the bodyguards release Frank.<br /> Frank lay there, already unconscious.<br /> Wesley turned to the lady. "Who are you?"<br /> "I am Mia Roberts, the general manager of Vinver Business Alliance's Yeadeo branch." She looked at Wesley and continued, "Mr. Harrington, my father mentioned that you have miraculous healing skills and earnestly requested your assistance. A generous reward awaits."<br /> Wesley furrowed his brow slightly, thinking, "There are indeed people who recognize my abilities and status, yet I've rarely intervened in the past five years. Today, shortly after I divorced Taylor, she is here. Whose arrangement is this?"<br /> "Mr. Harrington, my father also mentioned that you are benevolent and has raised the banner of compassion among healers, serving as a role model and benchmark for all in the medical field."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "You have a way with words. Tell me the specifics."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, please get in the car first. I will explain in detail on the way."<br /> The phrase "compassionate healer" held significant weight for Wesley, who had saved countless lives from the brink of death.<br /> Without further ado, he got into the car.<br /> Inside, after Mia brewed coffee for Wesley, she began. "Vinver Business Alliance has a wide range of business operations, and I mainly oversee the health supplement sector, which has seen some success in recent years.<br /> "Recently, Quinn Kingsley started using our medicines, and now there's an accident."<br /> As she spoke, Mia kept her gaze fixed on Wesley.<br /> Quinn, the undisputed leader of Yeadeo, was a figure of immense influence.<br /> Upon hearing this name, Wesley showed no particular reaction. "If the city's leader faces issues with your products, it is indeed a concern. Let's go and see."<br /> With just a sentence, Wesley leaned back in his seat, closing his eyes to rest.<br /> Mia was secretly alarmed, thinking, "He knows who Quinn is, yet he seems indifferent. Who is this Wesley, really? No wonder Dad has instructed me to find a way to win his favor." Mia's inner resistance toward Wesley quietly shifted.<br /> Wesley had piqued her curiosity.<br /> As the vehicle was moving, Wesley's phone rang.<br /> Wesley opened his eyes and took out his phone to see Taylor calling.<br /> Pressing the answer button, he asked, "What's the matter?"<br /> On the other end of the line, Taylor, driving towards Feidgeuo Manor, had a grim expression.<br /> She thought, "Has Wesley ever spoken to me in such a cold tone before? Is he really this heartless right after our divorce?"<br /> Already furious, she snapped. "Wesley, do you even consider yourself a human being?<br /> "Today, not only did you lay hands on my mother, but you also had someone attack my brother. Do you not remember our past at all?"<br /> Wesley calmly replied, "Do we have a past to remember?"<br /> "You truly are a heartless scumbag, just as my mother said. You are an ungrateful and vicious person I raised for five years. Even a pet would wag its tail at me!"<br /> Taylor wanted to continue her tirade, but the phone line had already turned busy.<br /> This only fueled her anger further.<br /> Just now, she had received a call from Frank's underlings, informing her that Wesley had sent people to attack Frank and even intended to end him.<br /> Taylor wanted to demand answers, but...<br /> As Taylor was clutching her fists, her gaze turned icy.<br /> After a moment, she picked up her phone again. "Wesley, you are so narrow-minded. You have no ambition. Any lady would steer clear of you."<br /> "Just because I dumped you, you are doing this on purpose to make me feel sick. Pretending to be aloof and seeking revenge? Do you even deserve it?"<br /> "In Yeadeo, squashing you would be as easy as squashing an ant. You're asking for it! If anything happens to my brother, I will make you wish you were ending!"<br /> Her furious voice message echoed in the car.<br /> Wesley chuckled and put away his phone.<br /> Beside him, Mia seemed contemplative. Before coming, she had already ordered a swift investigation into Wesley.<br /> She was curious, thinking, "How could someone valued by my father could be the one 'marrying into' the Reed family."<br /> Being tactful, Mia chose not to ask and pretended not to have heard.<br /> After about forty minutes, they arrived at the Kingsley Manor.<br /> The Kingsley family members, upon seeing Mia alight from the car, all wore grim expressions.<br /> Mia greeted them with a smile, "Everyone, this is Wesley Harrington, Mr. Harrington, the miraculous healer I specially invited to treat Mr. Kingsley."<br /> "Him? The gent who married into the Reed family?"<br /> "A miraculous healer? Is he even worthy? Are healers so worthless now?"<br /> "A useless gent who mooches off of the Reed family? How dare he call himself a miraculous healer? Truly a joke among all jokes."<br /> Chapter 5 Compassionate Healer<br /> Amanda Kingsley, Quinn's granddaughter, stared coldly at Wesley and Mia.<br /> This lady, dressed in a smart suit, also held significant fame in Yeadeo, overseeing the region's business activities, including investment attraction and various local business negotiations.<br /> Amanda had a favorable view of Taylor, who had risen swiftly in recent times, and they had interacted frequently.<br /> She was aware of Wesley's existence and had advised Taylor to part ways with him early on.<br /> But Amanda never imagined that Mia would bring someone like Wesley, a complete waste, and claim he was a miraculous healer.<br /> Glaring at Mia, she said, "Mia, once my grandfather is well, it's best for your Roberts family to leave Yeadeo."<br /> "As for you..." She glanced at Wesley. "I will advise Taylor to divorce you. You have deceived Taylor's feelings and now shamelessly made your way into my family. You are a despicable creature."<br /> After reprimanding Mia and Wesley, she turned to an elderly gent beside her, and her tone and attitude completely changed. "Mr. Phillips, sorry to trouble you. My grandfather is inside, please."<br /> Mia looked at the elderly gent, who was already in his twilight years, feeling deeply shocked.<br /> Scott Phillips, the 38th generation heir of the Healing Clinic, was now ninety-two years old.<br /> Renowned as a miraculous healer, he was a respected figure in the medical community of Yeadeo and even nationally.<br /> He no longer conducted consultations personally due to his old age. Mia had visited him specifically to pay her respects once she had arrived in Yeadeo but had not met Scott.<br /> She never expected Scott to appear in person. It was understandable, as Quinn held a prominent position in the city. Despite the profound influence of the Phillips family, they still had to show respect to Quinn.<br /> Mia looked at Wesley, feeling conflicted and thinking, "Dad has confidently claimed that Wesley has extraordinary abilities, but does he really?"<br /> She harbored doubts, but out of propriety, Mia spoke. "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the trouble."<br /> Wesley smiled, "It's fine. As long as the person can be healed."<br /> His open-mindedness impressed Mia.<br /> After about half an hour, Amanda emerged from the room. All eyes instantly turned towards her.<br /> It was evident that Amanda had wailed out, with traces of tears still visible.<br /> "Amanda, how is it?" A middle-aged gent anxiously asked her.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family who had rushed back also focused their attention on her.<br /> "Mr. Phillips said that there's little hope of recovery. He could only use acupuncture to wake grandfather for half an hour. When grandfather wakes up, let's all go in and see if he has any final instructions."<br /> Everyone was shocked.<br /> "How could this be?"<br /> "Is Mr. Phillips also helpless?"<br /> The members of the Kingsley family found it hard to accept this reality, especially since Quinn had always treated his juniors well.<br /> The thought of Quinn departing saddened some, and tears silently fell.<br /> Publicly, Quinn's status was the foundation of the Kingsley family's prominence in Yeadeo.<br /> If Quinn were to pass away, the Kingsley family would undoubtedly decline.<br /> The atmosphere within the Kingsley family was somber.<br /> Amanda looked at her family members, opened her mouth, but said nothing, silently turning back into the room.<br /> "Stop crying," A middle-aged gent said sternly, "Dad wouldn't want to see you all in tears. If he's really leaving, we mustn't let him worry about us. Pull yourselves together."<br /> After these words, the middle-aged gent also entered the room.<br /> The younger members of the Kingsley family wiped their tears vigorously, trying to force smiles, but in truth, they looked better at crying than pretending to be happy.<br /> Mia's spirit plummeted as she realized the gravity of the situation. Even if an ordinary person passed away from consuming health supplements, it spelled big trouble for those who sold them. And when the deceased happened to be Quinn, the stakes were even higher.<br /> She understood that it would be difficult for this branch to stay in Yeadeo, and even the headquarters might face repercussions.<br /> "Let's go in and have a look." Wesley glanced at Mia. "There might still be a chance."<br /> "Ah..." Mia stared at Wesley in surprise. Seeing him already heading towards the room, she quickly followed suit.<br /> Inside the room, the members of the Kingsley family stood around the mattress, maintaining a certain distance.<br /> Scott lit the alcohol lamp and took out the needles, his expression solemn.<br /> He looked at the members of the Kingsley family. "Think about what you want to say to Mr. Kingsley later. Once you're ready, let me know, and then I'll proceed with the acupuncture."<br /> As he said this, tears welled up in many eyes.<br /> "If you don't mind, let me take a look. I have a way." Wesley spoke up, drawing everyone's attention.<br /> Amanda's face darkened. "Who let you in? Get out!"<br /> "Mia, have you lost your mind? Tricked by this trash and actually brought him here as a miracle healer. Get out with him! I'll settle the score with you in a couple of days."<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, at a loss for words.<br /> "Even Mr. Phillips is unable to reverse the situation. What use are you? Get out." Another younger member of the Kingsley family angrily rebuked.<br /> The middle-aged gent added, "We're in no mood right now. You better leave immediately."<br /> "I understand your narrow-mindedness," Wesley continued, "But as a healer, once I see a patient, I cannot stand by and watch him draw his last breath."<br /> "Wesley, you're quite the charlatan. Do you really want to be gone right now?" Amanda's voice was filled with anger.<br /> "Amanda, let me say a few words," Scott interjected, and Amanda fell silent.<br /> Looking at Wesley, Scott began. "Young lad, at my age, I've seen a lot and have a broad perspective. Today, however, I find it hard to remain indifferent. I practiced medicine from the age of sixteen until I stopped seeing patients for a total of seventy years."<br /> "I've saved countless patients from various illnesses. I never easily declare a patient's fate, nor do I believe I have the right to do so."<br /> "But from your recent remarks, it seems like you're accusing me of such actions. Young people wanting to make a name for themselves by stepping on the shoulders of their predecessors, I can understand."<br /> "But this kind of behavior displeases me."<br /> "My displeasure, what does it mean to you? Do you understand?"<br /> "Even if you are a healer, your career will be ruined because of this."<br /> Chapter 6 Hand of Hell<br /> In the face of Scott's veiled threats, Wesley simply smiled and brushed them off.<br /> Looking at Scott, he asked, "I've always focused on the issue at hand rather than attacking individuals. I have a few questions for you. If you can't administer the needles, how long do you think Quinn can hold on?"<br /> "Seven days, but he will remain unconscious," Scott replied bluntly.<br /> "Then let me ask you this, is there anyone in the world with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "Outrageous," Amanda coldly interjected, "Mr. Phillips is unparalleled in his medical expertise."<br /> Scott glanced at Amanda. "Amanda, let me handle this question."<br /> Continuing to address Wesley, he said, "I don't underestimate myself, nor do I overestimate. There are countless talented individuals in the world, like stars in the sky. I may not dare claim to be the best in medical skills, but those who surpass me are few."<br /> "That means there are some," Wesley calmly remarked, causing Scott's expression to shift slightly, "Indeed, there are."<br /> "Then let me ask you this. Do you think within seven days, the Kingsley family won't find someone with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "If they do find someone, do you believe there is an illness that you cannot cure, but this person can?"<br /> Wesley's questions were sharp and resounding.<br /> Scott's face changed once more as he was rendered speechless.<br /> "Even if there is, that person will never be you." Amanda's face turned icy. "Now get out. Don't spout your eloquence here. Your deceitful behavior is repulsive."<br /> "Your understanding of me is merely hearsay, isn't it?" Wesley retorted, his gaze mocking Amanda, "Has your background and education taught you such arrogance and prejudice?"<br /> "Arrogance?" Amanda's face grew colder as she disdainfully looked at Wesley. "Prejudice?<br /> "Did I say something wrong just now? You are nothing but stagnant waste, a parasite living off others. If it weren't for Taylor, you would have starved on the streets long ago."<br /> "Relying on sweet words, deceiving Taylor. She, with her kind heart, can't bear to divorce you, but don't push your luck. If it weren't for Taylor's sake, you would have been sent out long ago."<br /> Scott interrupted Amanda, "Amanda, although I find this lad a bit annoying, what he said does hold some truth. There are indeed individuals with better medical skills than me. Your grandfather can hold on for seven days. Try reaching out to see if someone can come over. I'll help you make connections."<br /> "If it really doesn't work out after seven days, I'll administer the needles to your grandfather. However, at that point, I can only buy you three minutes."<br /> As soon as Scott spoke, the faces of the Kingsley family members grew even more solemn. True healers were rare and not easily summoned.<br /> While the Kingsley family had connections in Yeadeo, their influence waned outside of it.<br /> "Mr. Phillips, please administer the needles. Life has its ups and downs, and we understand that. Just buy my father a bit more time." The middle-aged gent spoke up.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family nodded in agreement.<br /> Amanda looked at Scott. "Mr. Phillips, please."<br /> "In that case, please have everyone unrelated leave. I need silence," Scott calmly stated.<br /> Amanda glared at Wesley, her eyes speaking volumes without a word.<br /> The unrelated individuals were, naturally, Wesley and Mia.<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, intending to leave, but she suddenly hesitated.<br /> Instead of leaving, Wesley moved forward.<br /> "What are you doing?" A young member of the Kingsley family stepped forward with a stern expression, pushing Wesley.<br /> In one swift motion, Wesley executed a clean shoulder throw, toppling the young gent to the ground, his own expression turning cold.<br /> "A bunch of fools! If it weren't for my teacher's teachings about not turning a blind eye to those in need, I wouldn't bother with you ignorant lot," Wesley remarked with disdain.<br /> As Wesley effortlessly took down one individual from the Kingsley family, the others seemed slow to react.<br /> By the time they realized what was happening, Wesley had already picked up the needle next to Scott and casually flicked his wrist.<br /> The needle flew out of his hand, piercing Quinn's temple, followed by a second needle, a third needle, and so on.<br /> "What are you doing? Stop!" Amanda's voice rose in urgency, echoed by the rest of the Kingsley family members who rushed forward to restrain Wesley.<br /> "Stay back, everyone. Wait." Scott suddenly stood up, blocking the others. "Let him try."<br /> Amanda and the others were left dumbfounded, thinking, "What does this mean?"<br /> Despite their confusion, they heeded Scott's words.<br /> After Scott stopped the members of the Kingsley family, he fixed his gaze on Wesley.<br /> Wesley proceeded to use eighteen needles in succession, symbolizing the levels of pain.<br /> Even if someone had descended into the depths of hell, they must be brought back.<br /> The final needle, also piercing a vital point, caused Quinn's body to tremble suddenly, resonating with the previous eighteen needles.<br /> Scott's eyes widened, his body trembling slightly. His reaction left Amanda and the others even more puzzled, but none dared to interrupt.<br /> Moments later, Wesley placed a palm on Quinn's chest, causing all eighteen needles to be shaken off. When all the needles landed on the ground, the part of the skin where the needles had pierced turned dark.<br /> Wesley then dragged Quinn to the edge of the mattress, flipped him over with his head facing downwards, and gave him a firm pat on the back.<br /> Quinn spat out a mouthful of black liquid. When Wesley flipped him back to lie flat, his complexion had regained some color.<br /> "The Hand of Darkness... It's the Hand of Darkness!" Scott exclaimed with excitement, his body quivering, "It's the Hand that descends into the dark world, snatching people from the hands of the Evil!"<br /> "You do have some knowledge, recognizing the Hand of Darkness." Wesley glanced at Scott.<br /> Scott's gaze towards Wesley had undergone a drastic change. He respectfully clasped his hands together.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thirty years ago, I had the honor of attending a teaching conference held by Mr. Vanderbilt. I saw the Hand of Darkness, but my limited aptitude only allowed me to grasp the basics."<br /> "I have been blind and ignorant. I apologize for my earlier offenses. Please forgive me, Mr. Harrington."<br /> The Mr. Vanderbilt Scott referred to was Wesley's teacher, Ulysses Vanderbilt. He generously imparted his skills to others, but the ability to learn depended on one's innate talent.<br /> In this world, few could learn Ulysses' skills.<br /> Scott had been fortunate to receive guidance from Ulysses, which had elevated his medical skills. However, the Hand of Darkness, a miraculous ability, was beyond his comprehension.<br /> Wesley smiled faintly, "Your actions earlier are understandable. I appreciate your words."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you must be an exceptional disciple of Mr. Vanderbilt, possessing unparalleled magnanimity. Impressive," Scott continued.<br /> "Enough with the flattery at your age."<br /> "You are mistaken, Mr. Harrington. Every word I speak is sincere."<br /> Mia, Amanda, and the others stood bewildered by the unfolding situation.<br /> "Mr. Phillips... he... he..." Amanda's words faltered.<br /> Scott turned to the members of the Kingsley family. "Meeting Mr. Harrington was Quinn's luck. His symptoms have been cured by Mr. Harrington. With a few days of rest, he will be fine."<br /> The waste Taylor had previously said was called Mr. Harrington by Scott!<br /> Recalling their previous attitudes, Amanda hurriedly apologized, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> The members of the Kingsley family all apologized in unison, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> Chapter 7 Eight Plates of Noodles<br /> With a faint smile, Wesley remarked, "As family members of a patient, your actions earlier are understandable. There's no need for such formality."<br /> Amanda's perplexity deepened as she thought, "Where is the cowardly waste that Taylor described? This display of magnanimity and breadth is far from it."<br /> Mia, too, felt a shiver of realization, thinking, "No wonder Dad has insisted on my proximity to Wesley.<br /> This guy..."<br /> She gazed at Wesley, her curiosity piqued, a sense of exploration stirring within her.<br /> "Mia has brought you here, Mr. Harrington, to cure my grandfather. The Kingsley family will never forget this act. However, considering that my grandfather's ailment stemmed from the health supplements produced by the Vinver Business Alliance, we will be conducting an investigation into it."<br /> Amanda continued, looking at Wesley, "What do you think... of this approach?"<br /> It was Mia who had invited Wesley, so Amanda had grown wiser, refraining from asking for a direct punishment of the Vinver Business Alliance.<br /> As Mia heard Amanda's words, her heart skipped a beat, realizing trouble was brewing.<br /> "On the way here, Ms. Roberts briefed me on the situation. You conducted experiments on mice, correct?"<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes, the health supplements we received were exclusively provided by the Roberts family. There were no similar cases on the market, so we used mice for testing.<br /> "All the mice that ingested this supplement were gone."<br /> She looked at Mia and added, her voice turned colder. "Before the experiment, I specifically contacted Mia to inquire about the testing methods during the development phase, which involved mice."<br /> "There have been individuals eyeing my grandfather's position, some even wishing for his demise. I never imagined that the Vinver Business Alliance, which I attracted for investment, would become a weapon in someone else's hands."<br /> "Do you have any of the remaining medicine?" Wesley inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes."<br /> "Bring some over."<br /> Immediately, someone fetched the medicine. After it was brought to him, Wesley took out a supplement and swallowed it directly.<br /> This scene left Amanda and the others dumbfounded.<br /> Scott, too, was bewildered. "Mr. Harrington, what are you doing?"<br /> Wesley smiled, "Just proving that this medicine is not toxic."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thank you," Mia thanked sincerely, feeling like sobbing at that moment.<br /> Amanda, with a puzzled expression, looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, are you suggesting that my grandfather's condition wasn't caused by the Vinver Business Alliance's medicine? What about the mice?"<br /> The rest were equally puzzled.<br /> "Yes, but not entirely," Wesley said, leaving everyone even more bewildered.<br /> Mia's emotions were like a rollercoaster ride, from relief to immediate tension.<br /> "This medicine itself is not toxic, but when taken with another substance made from a certain plant, it results in Quinn's condition. The mice would die immediately, while humans could endure a few more days."<br /> Wesley continued to explain, "The plant used in this concoction is originally meant for crafting slow-acting toxins, not for human consumption."<br /> Looking at Amanda, Wesley said, "During this period, whoever had access to your grandfather and the mice will better understand why these events occurred."<br /> The gaze of members of the Kingsley family immediately focused on a lady.<br /> Amanda, somewhat incredulous, looked at her. "Can you offer an explanation?"<br /> The lady was the wife of Amanda's deceased brother. She found it hard to accept, as did the rest of the Kingsley family.<br /> This lady had been named the exemplary lady who served her family well this year, not due to her connection with the Kingsley family but because she genuinely deserved it.<br /> "What do you mean? Amanda, what explanation do you want from me?"<br /> The lady stared at Amanda. "Am I the only one who had access to Grandfather and the mice? You, and you... and you, who didn't have access?"<br /> "You all claim to treat me as family. Since I married into the Kingsley family, I have worked diligently, contributing my share even if not acknowledged."<br /> "Amanda, it has been over a year since your brother passed, and I never once considered remarrying. Now, just because of his words, you demand an explanation from me?"<br /> Pointing at Wesley, the lady questioned, "Just because he accuses me of poisoning, you suspect me? Tell me, did I poison him?" The lady glared at Wesley.<br /> "I am merely analyzing the facts. As for concluding this case, it's not within my purview," Wesley addressed the members of the Kingsley family, saying, "You should conduct a thorough investigation into this matter.<br /> "I will write a prescription. Have Quinn take it on time, and he will recover in seven days."<br /> Amanda hurried to fetch paper and pen while Wesley prepared the prescription. Once done, he was ready to leave.<br /> Amanda said hurriedly, "Mr. Harrington, I've already made arrangements for lunch."<br /> "No need," Wesley smiled.<br /> The Kingsley family sought to build closer ties with Wesley, given his extraordinary medical skills. Wesley was well aware of this.<br /> Looking at Amanda and the others, Wesley remarked, "In the future, if you encounter any difficult medical cases that others cannot solve, seek me out. Remember, cases others cannot solve."<br /> The gaze of the Kingsley family members toward Wesley changed once again. Many renowned healers had eccentric personalities and were difficult to engage.<br /> They hadn't expected Wesley to possess such remarkable medical skills without any airs.<br /> As Wesley prepared to depart, the members of the Kingsley family did not dare to insist on his stay, so they accompanied him outside.<br /> "Oh, how could we forget such an important matter? Amanda, what about the consultation fee?" The middle-aged gent inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the oversight. Please wait a moment." Amanda hurried back inside and soon returned with a bank card in hand.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, there's one million dollars in here."<br /> Without hesitation, Wesley accepted the bank card and boarded Mia's car.<br /> During the journey, Mia boldly looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, you've helped me immensely. Can I treat you to a meal? Don't decline in a hurry. It's not a fancy restaurant, but it will leave you wanting more. It's a small place on the street, with only eight plates of noodles served each day, each plate containing different ingredients."<br /> "I managed to secure a reservation. Are you interested?"<br /> Wesley thought, "Eight Plates of Noodles?<br /> "Ah, Aaron's restaurant. It has been a while since I visited those old friends."<br /> Wesley nodded. "Let's go then."<br /> The restaurant, Eight Plates of Noodles, was located on Chanxold Street near the Yeadeo First Central Hospital.<br /> The establishment was small, serving only eight plates of noodles each day at a price of 10 thousand dollars each. Vernoic's television culinary program had specifically covered this incident.<br /> Reservations were a must to secure a plate.<br /> The restaurant's owner had a mysterious background. While the specifics were unknown, a high-ranking noble from the capital of Vernoic, Kingsland, had caused a scene there once.<br /> He had attempted to force his way in without a reservation. Although this incident hadn't been reported, rumors suggested that a garbage truck had to be called to dispose of the intruder's remains, as he was too shattered to be removed by conventional means.<br /> Since then, no one dared to cause trouble.<br /> On their way, Mia introduced Wesley to the background story.<br /> "Mr. Turner, two plates of noodles." Mia called out once they arrived.<br /> Aaron Turner didn't respond but visibly paused upon seeing Wesley beside Mia.<br /> A faint smile appeared on his usually stoic face. Though the flesh on the face seemed stiff, it was indeed a smile. "Coming right up."<br /> Chapter 8 You Are Blushing<br /> Mia glanced at Aaron with a hint of surprise, thinking, "When does he become so warm and enthusiastic?<br /> His tone seemed a bit agitated earlier, didn't it?"<br /> Soon enough, Aaron brought two plates of noodles to the table. One steaming hot and the other devoid of any warmth.<br /> As Mia observed Aaron placing the plate without steam in front of Wesley, her expression changed slightly.<br /> It was a plate of instant noodles having soaked in cold water, with the seasoning barely dissolved.<br /> She felt a sense of panic. Mia had wanted to leave a good impression on Wesley, which was why she had chosen this place.<br /> However, Aaron had served such a plate of noodles.<br /> She dared not question Aaron. The type of noodles served here was not determined by the guests but by Aaron's mood.<br /> "This lass named Mia is quite something, living up to her name, and quite kind-hearted," Aaron remarked, looking at Wesley.<br /> "Get lost," Wesley retorted, using his fork to pick up the noodles and devouring them.<br /> Mia's face turned pale instantly. Disrespecting Aaron was akin to risking Wesley's life.<br /> To her astonishment, Aaron chuckled, tears welling up in his eyes.<br /> He wiped them away. "Alright, I'll leave you to your meal."<br /> Before departing, he gave Mia a thumbs-up. "Seize the opportunity."<br /> The eight plates of noodles symbolized the eight comrades who had faced life and hardships together.<br /> Wesley ate voraciously. Initially, they had only one pack of instant noodles to share among the eight of them, forcing them to divide it.<br /> Despite the circumstances, they devoured the noodles joyfully.<br /> Aaron had promised that once they survived, each one would have the most delicious plate of noodles.<br /> However, five of the eight had perished.<br /> Wesley had come dangerously close to life-threatening situations, but managed to cling to life.<br /> For him, the plate of noodles was not food but the bond of friendship that had shielded him from harm.<br /> "Do you... know each other?" Mia couldn't help but ask, her voice low and curious.<br /> "Some things are better left unknown," Wesley replied.<br /> Mia nodded in understanding, falling silent as they continued eating noodles. She couldn't help stealing glances at Wesley throughout the meal.<br /> This gent had piqued her curiosity even more.<br /> "Wesley, I see. No wonder you agreed to the divorce so readily. You've already found someone else outside."<br /> A sharp voice interrupted their meal.<br /> Taylor approached with a cold expression, accompanied by Henry.<br /> Taylor's mother was in the nearby hospital, and she had just picked up Frank, planning to buy some food when she unexpectedly saw Wesley.<br /> Of course, she saw Mia, too.<br /> Seeing Wesley dining with a lady more attractive than herself, so soon after the divorce felt like a dagger twisting in Taylor's heart.<br /> Her anger was uncontrollable.<br /> Wesley merely glanced at Taylor, disinterested in engaging with her.<br /> Taylor was stung by his indifferent gaze. She stepped forward, glaring at Wesley. "Are you not going to explain to me?"<br /> Mia looked at Taylor, silently cursing her as a foolish lady.<br /> Wesley continued eating his noodles, lowering his head. "Get lost. Don't disturb me, or I won't hesitate to hit you."<br /> "What did you say?" Henry stepped forward, enraged. "Wesley, try laying a hand on her! Is that all you're capable of? Laying hands on ladies?"<br /> "No wonder Taylor looks down on you. You're truly disgusting trash. Apologize to Taylor now, or else you'll regret coming into this world."<br /> "And how will he regret it? Tell me." Aaron emerged, carrying a cleaver, smiling as he faced Henry and Taylor.<br /> "Mr. Turner, we dare not cause trouble in your place, but this guy is just..."<br /> Henry attempted to speak but was cut off as Aaron's cleaver struck his face, sending him sprawling to the ground.<br /> "Mr. Turner, sorry, we'll leave now." Taylor hastily helped Henry up and hurriedly left.<br /> These two individuals were fortunate to know the legendary story behind Eight Plates of Noodles and had successfully made reservations to dine here multiple times.<br /> Having distanced themselves a bit, Henry covered his face and pointed at Wesley. "Wesley, we have some unfinished business. If you're smart, come over here now and apologize."<br /> "Wesley, I've seen through you as well. I never expected that for the past five years, you've been using my money to keep a lady on the side. We'll settle the score slowly."<br /> As the two noticed Aaron glancing their way, they quickly shut their mouths and hurriedly left.<br /> Once they were out of eyeshots, Aaron fixed his gaze on Wesley. "Your dad doesn't know about your divorce yet, does he?"<br /> "What difference would it make if he did?" Wesley stretched lazily. "I've fulfilled my promise. I've given enough."<br /> Aaron nodded in acknowledgment without saying anything further.<br /> This piqued Mia's curiosity even more. "Is it like what the novels depict? Did you marry Taylor due to some special event?"<br /> Seeing Wesley's glare, Mia lowered her head to focus on her noodles. "I won't ask anymore."<br /> "For the past five years, you've been staying in the stairwell. It has been hard for you, but at least you're still untouched," Aaron remarked before swiftly departing.<br /> Mia stared at Wesley in disbelief, realizing that Aaron's words were meant for her ears.<br /> "What are you staring at? Eat your noodles," Wesley said. Mia chuckled.<br /> "Why are you laughing?"<br /> "You're blushing."<br /> "Nonsense," Wesley retorted.<br /> Unable to contain herself, Mia burst into laughter. She had tried to hold it in, but seeing Wesley's flushed face made it impossible.<br /> Ten minutes later, Mia left on her own accord, sensing that Wesley had something to discuss with Aaron.<br /> Inside Aaron's small shop, Wesley opened a bottle of wine. "Still single?"<br /> "I look too old, no one's interested," Aaron replied, opening a bottle of liquor as well.<br /> "Then why are you meddling in my love lives?"<br /> "Leave a child behind, even if you pass away, someone will remember you." Aaron took a sip. "I've actually investigated this Mia."<br /> "You investigated her?"<br /> "I knew you'd get a divorce. I've been keeping an eye on the pretty ones. This girl had done a lot of good deeds before coming to Yeadeo. Once, she saved three people in a flood and nearly lost her life. Opportunities are rare. You have to seize them."<br /> "When you've figured things out and are ready to marry, then we can discuss our affairs. That's the condition." Wesley downed the entire bottle of liquor.<br /> "Otherwise, don't bother meddling. We're on a one-way path and can't drag others along."<br /> "You..." Aaron sighed as he watched Wesley's retreating figure.<br /> On the road leading to the Feidgeuo Manor, Taylor stood gazing blankly at the entrance not far away.<br /> Twice in one day, she had come here.<br /> The first time was to pick up Frank, and this time was because Frank had lost his expensive watch. She and Henry hadn't even had a meal, rushing over to find it.<br /> The first time, she had come in a hurry when Frank was injured and left quickly as well.<br /> But this time, as Taylor looked at the entrance ahead, an infinite longing sprouted within her.<br /> "If only... I could live here, how wonderful that would be."<br /> Henry looked at her. "One day, I'll definitely build an estate more magnificent than this, and you'll be the lady of the house."<br /> As they conversed, a taxi drove by, stopping at the entrance. The person who got out of the taxi left Taylor stunned.<br /> She rubbed her eyes. | Adoread | 478 | https://facebook.com/61556400142540 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713682800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846712 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446607 | 1735168081 | 890 | 261213703653482 | 3 | 8.0864714465225E+14 | 1713596400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 226177680578601 | 0 | Adoread | 120207756044660265 | client.adoread.com | Learn more | NONE | image | 🔥🔥🔥 Read More👉 | Hottest novel👉👉👉 | https://client.adoread.com/book/loading/page/adoread/19161308412?utm_campaign={{campaign.id}}&utm_content={{campaign.name}} | 1713536884 | 2.261776805786E+14 | Adoread | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437701264_456851220189074_3845705834667566214_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=b1BAiYDEuMUQ7kNvgHj2Rtb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCytfZ8QzJADDe0BO4jkZAeB9hJrjReEmku6vd1wOSmxw&oe=666405EC | person_profile | 0 | Adoread | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437535262_290944307391189_4921748547238139313_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=j5kYAsCnUHoQ7kNvgEM9pty&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBzzk6oIk5MHBbbg1uHwvoK2epujZqCoCw5jaiKhiM5fg&oe=6663F86A | 0 | 3 | "Wesley, are you trying to harm me? You useless piece of trash, can't even make a decent cup of coffee, can you?"<br /> Madison Blair lifted her coffee cup and splashed it directly onto Wesley Harrington's face.<br /> "What are you looking at, you spineless waste? Your name sounds so lofty? I might as well call you a waste."<br /> Glancing at the grotesque expression of his wife's mother, Wesley pulled out his phone to check the time.<br /> Exactly twelve o'clock. It had been five full years since he married Taylor Reed.<br /> The appointed time had come.<br /> He had fulfilled his promise, safeguarding the Reed family for five years, transforming them from a family living off fishing to one perceived as affluent by the common folk.<br /> Wiping the coffee off his face, he turned and walked away.<br /> "Where do you think you're going? Go fetch some more coffee," Madison shouted.<br /> "Madison, didn't you say this waste is obedient at home, doing whatever he's told? I don't think he's taking it lying down."<br /> Madison grew angrier. "Wesley, you stop right there. My family has fed and housed you. If you dare disobey, I'll have you thrown out!"<br /> Ignoring her, Wesley continued downstairs.<br /> "When Taylor comes back, I'll immediately have you two divorced. Do you hear me? Stay right there," Madison threatened, "I'll let you know your place today."<br /> Grabbing a golf club, Madison swiftly charged towards Wesley.<br /> Seeing Wesley heading downstairs, she swung the club viciously at his back.<br /> Without turning back, Wesley gently sidestepped.<br /> Losing her balance, Madison tumbled forward, rolling down the stairs with a series of thumps.<br /> "Ouch... it hurts, it hurts so much!"<br /> As Madison reached the ground floor, she wailed in pain and her sister immediately rushed to her.<br /> "Wesley, what have you done? How dare you hit my sister!" Madison's sister hurried down, checking on Madison's condition.<br /> Wesley remained silent, observing the scene.<br /> "Quick, call Taylor. Tell her to come back. Today, she must divorce this waste." Madison glared at Wesley. "How dare you hit me? Not only will I let Taylor divorce you, but I'll make sure you leave in disgrace."<br /> "Mum, what's wrong?" At that moment, a gent and a lady walked in.<br /> The lady was Taylor, Madison's daughter.<br /> She ran towards Madison.<br /> As Madison pointed at Wesley, tears streamed down her face. "Taylor, he hit me, he hit me! When you're not home, he changes his attitude, scolding and hitting me in the slightest displeasure. He even pushed me down the stairs just now. Alexis can testify."<br /> Madison's sister, Alexis Blair, chimed in. "Yes, Wesley, this trash not only hit your mother but also threatened to hit me too. We cannot tolerate such trash."<br /> "Taylor, I have been telling you to divorce him for years. You've been supporting him, treating him like a Lord at home, but he's an ungrateful wolf in sheep's clothing."<br /> Helping Madison up, Taylor noticed the scrapes on Madison's arms and legs, her expression turning cold.<br /> "Wesley, why did you hit my mother? You better give me an explanation."<br /> Wesley looked at Taylor, his wife.<br /> Five years had passed, and she had never shown him kindness.<br /> Taylor dressed impeccably, a paragon of a successful lady, with a face that could be deemed angelic, yet whether her heart was as angelic remained a mystery.<br /> Her figure, too, left countless men yearning.<br /> For five years, Wesley had thought he might develop feelings for this lady, but in reality, it never happened.<br /> "There are surveillance cameras in the house," Wesley stated calmly before descending the stairs into the hallway.<br /> Despite residing in a three-story villa, Wesley's living quarters were confined to the stairwell.<br /> He harbored no resentment towards this arrangement. It was merely a promise. It was just that Taylor failed to appreciate him.<br /> This home held little value that he wished to cling onto.<br /> Retrieving a wooden box from beneath his pillow, Wesley extracted two documents. Casting a fleeting glance at the modest abode he had called home for five years, Wesley smiled faintly.<br /> He thought, "Finally... I'm free."<br /> Pushing the door ajar, Wesley was met by Taylor's piercing gaze. "I've reviewed the surveillance footage. Yes, my mother intended to strike you, but even if she did, what difference would it make?"<br /> "She's a lady. How much could her blows hurt you? Why did you dodge?"<br /> "If you hadn't dodged, my mother wouldn't have tumbled down." Wesley stared at Taylor, unable to comprehend her thought process.<br /> He had no interest in engaging in these arguments. Handing over the two documents to Taylor, he remarked, "The divorce agreement. I've already signed it. Take a look. I'm leaving with nothing."<br /> "With your current influence, there's no need for you to visit the city hall. Someone will handle it for you, right?"<br /> Madison was taken aback. She swiftly snatched the divorce agreement, flipping through it hastily.<br /> The contents were indeed straightforward. Both parties willingly divorced, with Wesley relinquishing all claims and having already signed.<br /> In an instant, Madison's pain seemed to dissipate. "Taylor, sign it quickly. Sign it."<br /> Taylor was still in a daze.<br /> She pondered.<br /> "A divorce agreement? Wesley has already prepared a divorce agreement. On what grounds?"<br /> "What gives him the right to initiate a divorce? All these years, he's done nothing at home, lacking any ambition. Always practicing martial arts, what right does he have to seek a divorce?"<br /> "If anyone should initiate it, it should be me. Moreover, now that I'm back to discussing this matter with him. Could it be that word got out, and Wesley, for the sake of his pride, rushed to prepare a divorce agreement first?"<br /> "It must be so, but... No!"<br /> "Wanting to leave with nothing, is he retreating to advance? As the chairman of the Reed Group, how could I be served with a divorce?"<br /> "Hey Wesley, I never expected this from you. Have I not treated you well enough? You seek a divorce, attempting to turn your retreat into advance, aiming to embarrass me?"<br /> Taylor glared at Wesley. "I'm telling you, it's impossible."<br /> Snatching the divorce agreement, she tore it to shreds.<br /> "Taylor, what are you doing? Such a great opportunity. Why not just sign it and let him leave?" Madison grew anxious.<br /> "Mom, I do intend to divorce this trash, but the decision must come from me. I returned specifically to address this matter."<br /> With that, Taylor produced two documents. "Wesley, remember that it's me who's divorcing you. It's me who no longer wants you. Initially, out of marital obligation, I had considered offering you some compensation. Now, you don't even need to think about it. Sign the divorce agreement and leave my home."<br /> Wesley offered a faint smile as he accepted the divorce agreement.<br /> "What are you laughing at?" Taylor demanded angrily.<br /> Wesley's smile seemed to mock her, fueling her rage.<br /> Ignoring her entirely, Wesley signed the document and handed it over.<br /> "What are you laughing at? Answer me! Who do you think you are?" Taylor roared once more.<br /> Wesley glanced at her before striding towards the exit.<br /> "Stop!" The gent who had accompanied Taylor stepped forward, blocking Wesley's path. "Taylor asked you a question, and... Your previous attitude displeased me. Apologize to Taylor, or I'll have you leave in disgrace!"<br /> Chapter 2 The Unspoken Truth<br /> <br /> "Yes, let him leave in disgrace. He thought he could just hit me and walk away so easily," Madison joined in the commotion, also noticing the gent blocking Wesley's path.<br /> Madison had a keen interest in luxury goods, having frequented various high-end establishments over the years as the Reed family's living conditions improved. The gent was wearing an expensive watch and dressed head to toe in high-end luxury brands.<br /> Seeing Madison's gaze, the gent spoke. "Rest assured, today Wesley must pay the price."<br /> The gent introduced himself, looking at Wesley, "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Henry Clark, the eldest son of the Clark family and the general manager of the Clark Group in the North District."<br /> "From now on, I will accompany Taylor on her journey of life, and I will not allow anyone to bully her."<br /> "My identity carries weight. You should understand that. Now, apologize to Taylor. Apologize! Did you hear me? Apologize!"<br /> Madison's eyes lit up. She hadn't expected the gent before her to hold such a high status. She continued to shout, "Did you hear that? Taylor will be with Mr. Clark from now on. Apologize now."<br /> Wesley glanced at Henry, then at Taylor. He thought, "Have they been together all along?" Wesley had wanted to ask but decided against it because there was no need. He simply gave them a glance and continued walking towards the exit.<br /> "Are you ignoring me?" Henry's face turned cold as he reached out to grab Wesley. Henry's hand froze mid-air as he received a solid hit.<br /> "Until I sign the divorce papers, Taylor and I are still wife and husband. I don't care to investigate whether you two had any intimate relationship during that time, but don't provoke me, or I won't hesitate to make you regret it." Wesley's gaze was icy, and as Henry met his eyes, he felt a twinge of fear and swallowed his words.<br /> Taylor was also stunned. She knew exactly what Wesley had been like over the past five years. There were many surveillance cameras in the house, and she would often check them.<br /> Even when Taylor wasn't home, despite how her family treated Wesley, he always obeyed without complaint, especially towards her. He had never raised his voice, no matter how they treated him.<br /> Today, not only did Wesley dodge when her mother struck, but he also initiated the divorce and now even struck Henry. <br /> Taylor was at a loss for words, thinking, "How could this cowardly gent dare? On what grounds does he dare?"<br /> This change was difficult for Taylor to accept as if she didn't truly understand this guy. The gent who used to be obedient to her, completely submissive, now revealed this side of himself. She watched Wesley walk away in a daze, feeling a strange discomfort in her heart.<br /> "Isn't he leaving with nothing?" Alexis pointed at the wooden box Wesley was holding. "What is he taking with him?"<br /> Madison also realized. Over the past five years, Wesley had always treasured this wooden box, carrying it with him wherever he went. She thought there must be something valuable inside.<br /> Realizing this, Madison hurriedly followed. "Wesley, stop right there, leave the wooden box."<br /> Wesley paused, glanced at Madison, and said, "This is my personal belonging."<br /> "Nonsense, what personal belonging could you possibly have after marrying into the Reed family? Everything you've eaten, worn, and lived in over the years has been provided by the Reed family. Put it down."<br /> As she spoke, Madison reached out to grab the wooden box.<br /> "Ah..." A scream rang out as Madison quickly retracted her hand, a gash appearing on her palm, a crimson liquid dripping.<br /> The wooden box was now stained with the same crimson liquid, trembling lightly in Wesley's hand.<br /> "It's not the right time yet, the day you thirst for this crimson liquid will come," Wesley murmured softly, patting the box before turning to continue his stride towards the exit.<br /> "Monster! A monster!" Madison screamed, causing Taylor and the others to rush out. Seeing the wound in Madison's hand, Taylor was filled with rage.<br /> "Wesley, aren't you going to say something?" Wesley halted once more, contemplating before meeting Taylor's gaze.<br /> "Just stay out of my way from now on. Consider this a warning to you."<br /> "Taylor, that wooden box of his has a mechanism. It must hold something valuable! We can't let him take it with him," Madison, enduring the pain, reminded them.<br /> "Mom, your injury is important. We'll deal with him later. Let me take you to the hospital first." Taylor comforted Madison before calling out to the retreating Wesley.<br /> "Our marriage is over! Yet, you dared to hurt my mother! This won't be the end of it! I will make you regret it!" Ignoring her, Wesley continued walking out.<br /> "Rest assured, I promise he won't see the light of day tomorrow." Henry stepped forward to console. "Let's focus on getting your wound treated first."<br /> "I want him to regret ever existing in this world, to apologize to me in repentance," Madison roared.<br /> "Mom, trust me, I will make him do just that." Taylor looked at Madison with a mix of pity and determination. "Let's go to the hospital first."<br /> In the villa area, Wesley halted, his voice cold. "Get out."<br /> An elderly gent leaped down from a tree, appearing to be in his seventies, yet landing silently from a height of around ten feet.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, your father wants you to come home and take charge."<br /> "He stopped being my father five years ago. He's my enemy."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you misunderstood your father. He had his reasons back then. I swear in my life, once you know the truth, you will forgive him."<br /> "Huh!" Wesley smirked coldly, saying, "I nearly passed away back then. Is that also a misunderstanding?"<br /> The old gent pleaded, "Mr. Harrington, this situation is truly not as you perceive it."<br /> Wesley didn't engage further with the old guy. The events of that year were etched in his memory forever. He was the one who had been abandoned. If not for that incident, why would he have stayed with the Reed family for five years?<br /> Watching Wesley walk away, the old gent had tears silently streaming down his face. "Mr. Harrington, I truly... I truly can't bring myself to speak the truth, but you have misunderstood your father. He also bears burdens and endures pains beyond what an ordinary person can handle."<br /> As Wesley's figure disappeared, the old gent stood up, hesitated for a moment, then dialed a number on his phone.<br /> "Mr. Harrington is now divorced. I've given you the news firsthand. If your daughter is truly together with Mr. Harrington, you must fulfill the promise and let her persuade Mr. Harrington to come home."<br /> After hanging up, a middle-aged gent in a luxurious estate jumped up excitedly. Calming himself, he immediately made another call. "My dear, you're at Yeadeo, right?<br /> "Go find Wesley now. Don't mention the engagement for now. Use every means to get close to him, make him fall in love with you."<br /> "Dad, I don't have time."<br /> "No matter what you are busy with, you must go find Wesley now. No matter what reason you approach him, you must leave a good impression the first time."<br /> "Dad, I'm in trouble right now. If I don't handle it well, I might be good as gone. I have to deal with it immediately. I'm hanging up."<br /> Chapter 3 You're Nothing<br /> The middle-aged gent's voice lowered significantly. "Is there a big incident happening? You didn't tell me? What happened?"<br /> "Quinn Kingsley from Yeadeo, Mr. Kingsley, used our product and now has one foot on the grave. If something really happens to him..."<br /> "You mean Quinn, the uncontested leader of Yeadeo?"<br /> "Yes."<br /> "In that case, you should go find Wesley. Trust me, in this world, there is no problem that Wesley can't solve. As long as he's willing to help, you'll be fine. Listen to me, go find Wesley immediately."<br /> The lady fell silent for a moment before saying, "Okay."<br /> At Yeadeo Harbor, a gent with a large flaxen chain and a watch, sporting a crew cut, hurriedly disembarked, accompanied by a dozen gentlemen.<br /> "Mr. Reed, wherever that trash is, we will find him and tear him apart."<br /> "Yes, that guy dared to harm your mother. We'll make sure he pays for it."<br /> Frank Reed's face turned cold. "Wesley, you coward, thinking you can overturn the world? How dare you touch my mom? Just wait until I find you, you're finished."<br /> "We've found him. Wesley got into a taxi, and our boys followed him."<br /> "Let's go!" Frank waved his hand, leading dozens of men who boarded the car with harpoons, steel pipes, and other weapons.<br /> Inside the taxi, Wesley gazed at the scenery outside, feeling a strange sense of tranquility.<br /> He thought to himself, "I never imagined that while I was secretly paving the way for the Reed family, Taylor, after progressing so rapidly, would start looking down on me more and more."<br /> "Those ladies who know my true identity, which one of them isn't trying to throw themselves at me? Ladies like that don't interest me."<br /> "Being an ordinary gent is truly difficult," Wesley murmured, smiling faintly and deciding not to dwell on these matters anymore. He had important things to attend to and no time to waste on personal affairs.<br /> "Young lad, are you going to Feidgeuo Manor for a job interview?" The driver, curious about Wesley's destination, inquired.<br /> Feidgeuo Manor was Yeadeo's most mysterious private area. Originally a villa area, it was bought at a huge cost five years ago and completely renovated. It was said to have cost a trillion dollars. The former villa area was now Feidgeuo Manor.<br /> "That's my home," Wesley replied nonchalantly.<br /> The driver was taken aback by this revelation, silently cursing Wesley for bragging. After a couple of minutes, the driver regained his composure. "It seems like you and I both prefer to keep a low profile. My car usually gathers dust at home, so I occasionally drive a taxi to experience life."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "My car has been driven by my assistant for the past few years, so it's not gathering dust."<br /> "Haha..." The driver laughed. "We should get together sometime and see whose car is more impressive."<br /> "Sure, whenever we have the time."<br /> As they chatted, the vehicle soon arrived near Feidgeuo Manor, where the massive head of the Feidgeuo Peak protruded, creating a unique landscape in Yeadeo.<br /> The driver asked with a smile, "Since you're the owner here, it's fine if I drive in, right?"<br /> "Of course," Wesley replied.<br /> As soon as Wesley spoke, several cars caught up from behind.<br /> The cars surrounded the one Wesley was in, with the front vehicles braking to force the car to a stop.<br /> When numerous people descended from cars wielding harpoons and steel pipes, the driver's face paled.<br /> Frank and his group got out of the cars, instantly closing in, and without hesitation, started attacking, the steel pipes and harpoons thudding against the car.<br /> Frank's henchman yanked open the door of Wesley's car, poised to stab Wesley with a harpoon, but Wesley swiftly exited the vehicle.<br /> With a firm step on the ground, he launched a swift hit.<br /> A muffled sound echoed as the henchman was hit away.<br /> "What are you looking at?" Frank noticed his henchmen were all staring at him. "All of you, attack together and take him down!"<br /> As he commanded, the henchmen Frank brought with him surged forward.<br /> The taxi driver, trembling, took out his phone to call the police, but Frank glared at him. "I am Frank Reed from Yeadeo Harbor. If you dare, go ahead and make that call."<br /> Frank, leveraging his sister Taylor's status, had been causing trouble in Yeadeo Harbor, and no one dared to provoke him.<br /> Upon hearing Frank's name, the driver hastily put away his phone. "Mr. Reed, I'll just check the time, you guys continue."<br /> "Huh!" Frank snorted coldly, casting his gaze towards the surrounded Wesley.<br /> The sounds of thuds continued to ring out incessantly. Because Wesley was completely surrounded, Frank was unable to see the situation inside clearly, but he could imagine it. After all, in Frank's mind, the henchmen under his command were not to be trifled with.<br /> "Hit him hard for me!"<br /> Another muffled sound and a figure flew out. At that moment, Frank finally saw the situation clearly, and his face turned pale.<br /> Frank knew that Wesley liked to practice martial arts, but he had never expected Wesley to be this skilled. It wasn't Wesley who had been beaten, but his own men by Wesley alone.<br /> Frantically, Frank turned and ran to retrieve a crossbow from the car.<br /> "Clear the way." Frank bellowed, aiming the crossbow at Wesley.<br /> "You scumbag, you think you can fight? Move one more time, and I'll end your life! Surrender!"<br /> Wesley, holding a wooden box, stared at Frank. Ignoring the crossbow in his hand, Wesley said, "Tell your henchmen to back off, or you'll all see the light from above!"<br /> "You're really good at pretending to be tough." Frank took two steps forward. "See the light? Move a muscle and see if I can end your life or not! If you don't have the guts, apologize now!"<br /> Wesley turned his head and looked at the approaching cars, with two expensive ones in the lead, two more in the rear, and another one in the middle.<br /> "Keep acting tough, and I'll put a hole in your head." Frank spoke while glancing at the five cars. "What, looking for help?"<br /> "Let me tell you, those who ride in these cars are not the kind of weaklings like you who rely on connections. With me here, in Yeadeo's social hierarchy, even those who ride in such cars wouldn't dare meddle in this matter. And let me make it clear, without my sister, you're nothing."<br /> Chapter 4 Is He Worthy?<br /> As Frank's words faded, the five cars came to a halt.<br /> A bodyguard opened the door of the one in the middle, revealing a dazzling pair of shining shoes catching everyone's eye.<br /> The shining shoe encased a beautiful foot. Above, the skirt's hem was adorned with lace.<br /> Then, like a fairy stepping out of a painting, she appeared before everyone's eyes.<br /> The lady was beautiful!<br /> Frank was mesmerized. Ever since the Reed family rose to prominence, he had been surrounded by ladies, but compared to the elegant lady before him, they were worlds apart.<br /> It wasn't just a difference in appearance but an incomparable gap in demeanor.<br /> The lady descending from the Maybach seemed like a celestial being untouched by mortal affairs.<br /> The embodiment of a fairy in the mundane world.<br /> She simply stood there after getting out of the car, perfectly embodying what it meant to be graceful and elegant.<br /> The lady glanced at Wesley, then at Frank.<br /> Frank grinned, saying, "May I have the honor of knowing the name of this esteemed lady? I am Frank..."<br /> The lady spoke calmly. "Disrespect Mr. Harrington, and you're done for."<br /> Her bodyguards, unfazed by Frank's crossbow, swiftly overwhelmed him, sending him crashing to the ground.<br /> The henchmen who had come with Frank, previously defeated by Wesley, now scrambled to their feet and fled in all directions.<br /> Who would dare provoke someone who could afford such a car?<br /> "My sister is Taylor Reed, the chairperson of Reed Group," Frank shouted, clutching his head.<br /> Ignoring him, one of the bodyguards dragged him to the roadside grass while another used a belt to tighten around Frank's neck, exerting pressure.<br /> "Enough, a lesson is all that's needed." Wesley spoke calmly, and only when the lady gestured did the bodyguards release Frank.<br /> Frank lay there, already unconscious.<br /> Wesley turned to the lady. "Who are you?"<br /> "I am Mia Roberts, the general manager of Vinver Business Alliance's Yeadeo branch." She looked at Wesley and continued, "Mr. Harrington, my father mentioned that you have miraculous healing skills and earnestly requested your assistance. A generous reward awaits."<br /> Wesley furrowed his brow slightly, thinking, "There are indeed people who recognize my abilities and status, yet I've rarely intervened in the past five years. Today, shortly after I divorced Taylor, she is here. Whose arrangement is this?"<br /> "Mr. Harrington, my father also mentioned that you are benevolent and has raised the banner of compassion among healers, serving as a role model and benchmark for all in the medical field."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "You have a way with words. Tell me the specifics."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, please get in the car first. I will explain in detail on the way."<br /> The phrase "compassionate healer" held significant weight for Wesley, who had saved countless lives from the brink of death.<br /> Without further ado, he got into the car.<br /> Inside, after Mia brewed coffee for Wesley, she began. "Vinver Business Alliance has a wide range of business operations, and I mainly oversee the health supplement sector, which has seen some success in recent years.<br /> "Recently, Quinn Kingsley started using our medicines, and now there's an accident."<br /> As she spoke, Mia kept her gaze fixed on Wesley.<br /> Quinn, the undisputed leader of Yeadeo, was a figure of immense influence.<br /> Upon hearing this name, Wesley showed no particular reaction. "If the city's leader faces issues with your products, it is indeed a concern. Let's go and see."<br /> With just a sentence, Wesley leaned back in his seat, closing his eyes to rest.<br /> Mia was secretly alarmed, thinking, "He knows who Quinn is, yet he seems indifferent. Who is this Wesley, really? No wonder Dad has instructed me to find a way to win his favor." Mia's inner resistance toward Wesley quietly shifted.<br /> Wesley had piqued her curiosity.<br /> As the vehicle was moving, Wesley's phone rang.<br /> Wesley opened his eyes and took out his phone to see Taylor calling.<br /> Pressing the answer button, he asked, "What's the matter?"<br /> On the other end of the line, Taylor, driving towards Feidgeuo Manor, had a grim expression.<br /> She thought, "Has Wesley ever spoken to me in such a cold tone before? Is he really this heartless right after our divorce?"<br /> Already furious, she snapped. "Wesley, do you even consider yourself a human being?<br /> "Today, not only did you lay hands on my mother, but you also had someone attack my brother. Do you not remember our past at all?"<br /> Wesley calmly replied, "Do we have a past to remember?"<br /> "You truly are a heartless scumbag, just as my mother said. You are an ungrateful and vicious person I raised for five years. Even a pet would wag its tail at me!"<br /> Taylor wanted to continue her tirade, but the phone line had already turned busy.<br /> This only fueled her anger further.<br /> Just now, she had received a call from Frank's underlings, informing her that Wesley had sent people to attack Frank and even intended to end him.<br /> Taylor wanted to demand answers, but...<br /> As Taylor was clutching her fists, her gaze turned icy.<br /> After a moment, she picked up her phone again. "Wesley, you are so narrow-minded. You have no ambition. Any lady would steer clear of you."<br /> "Just because I dumped you, you are doing this on purpose to make me feel sick. Pretending to be aloof and seeking revenge? Do you even deserve it?"<br /> "In Yeadeo, squashing you would be as easy as squashing an ant. You're asking for it! If anything happens to my brother, I will make you wish you were ending!"<br /> Her furious voice message echoed in the car.<br /> Wesley chuckled and put away his phone.<br /> Beside him, Mia seemed contemplative. Before coming, she had already ordered a swift investigation into Wesley.<br /> She was curious, thinking, "How could someone valued by my father could be the one 'marrying into' the Reed family."<br /> Being tactful, Mia chose not to ask and pretended not to have heard.<br /> After about forty minutes, they arrived at the Kingsley Manor.<br /> The Kingsley family members, upon seeing Mia alight from the car, all wore grim expressions.<br /> Mia greeted them with a smile, "Everyone, this is Wesley Harrington, Mr. Harrington, the miraculous healer I specially invited to treat Mr. Kingsley."<br /> "Him? The gent who married into the Reed family?"<br /> "A miraculous healer? Is he even worthy? Are healers so worthless now?"<br /> "A useless gent who mooches off of the Reed family? How dare he call himself a miraculous healer? Truly a joke among all jokes."<br /> Chapter 5 Compassionate Healer<br /> Amanda Kingsley, Quinn's granddaughter, stared coldly at Wesley and Mia.<br /> This lady, dressed in a smart suit, also held significant fame in Yeadeo, overseeing the region's business activities, including investment attraction and various local business negotiations.<br /> Amanda had a favorable view of Taylor, who had risen swiftly in recent times, and they had interacted frequently.<br /> She was aware of Wesley's existence and had advised Taylor to part ways with him early on.<br /> But Amanda never imagined that Mia would bring someone like Wesley, a complete waste, and claim he was a miraculous healer.<br /> Glaring at Mia, she said, "Mia, once my grandfather is well, it's best for your Roberts family to leave Yeadeo."<br /> "As for you..." She glanced at Wesley. "I will advise Taylor to divorce you. You have deceived Taylor's feelings and now shamelessly made your way into my family. You are a despicable creature."<br /> After reprimanding Mia and Wesley, she turned to an elderly gent beside her, and her tone and attitude completely changed. "Mr. Phillips, sorry to trouble you. My grandfather is inside, please."<br /> Mia looked at the elderly gent, who was already in his twilight years, feeling deeply shocked.<br /> Scott Phillips, the 38th generation heir of the Healing Clinic, was now ninety-two years old.<br /> Renowned as a miraculous healer, he was a respected figure in the medical community of Yeadeo and even nationally.<br /> He no longer conducted consultations personally due to his old age. Mia had visited him specifically to pay her respects once she had arrived in Yeadeo but had not met Scott.<br /> She never expected Scott to appear in person. It was understandable, as Quinn held a prominent position in the city. Despite the profound influence of the Phillips family, they still had to show respect to Quinn.<br /> Mia looked at Wesley, feeling conflicted and thinking, "Dad has confidently claimed that Wesley has extraordinary abilities, but does he really?"<br /> She harbored doubts, but out of propriety, Mia spoke. "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the trouble."<br /> Wesley smiled, "It's fine. As long as the person can be healed."<br /> His open-mindedness impressed Mia.<br /> After about half an hour, Amanda emerged from the room. All eyes instantly turned towards her.<br /> It was evident that Amanda had wailed out, with traces of tears still visible.<br /> "Amanda, how is it?" A middle-aged gent anxiously asked her.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family who had rushed back also focused their attention on her.<br /> "Mr. Phillips said that there's little hope of recovery. He could only use acupuncture to wake grandfather for half an hour. When grandfather wakes up, let's all go in and see if he has any final instructions."<br /> Everyone was shocked.<br /> "How could this be?"<br /> "Is Mr. Phillips also helpless?"<br /> The members of the Kingsley family found it hard to accept this reality, especially since Quinn had always treated his juniors well.<br /> The thought of Quinn departing saddened some, and tears silently fell.<br /> Publicly, Quinn's status was the foundation of the Kingsley family's prominence in Yeadeo.<br /> If Quinn were to pass away, the Kingsley family would undoubtedly decline.<br /> The atmosphere within the Kingsley family was somber.<br /> Amanda looked at her family members, opened her mouth, but said nothing, silently turning back into the room.<br /> "Stop crying," A middle-aged gent said sternly, "Dad wouldn't want to see you all in tears. If he's really leaving, we mustn't let him worry about us. Pull yourselves together."<br /> After these words, the middle-aged gent also entered the room.<br /> The younger members of the Kingsley family wiped their tears vigorously, trying to force smiles, but in truth, they looked better at crying than pretending to be happy.<br /> Mia's spirit plummeted as she realized the gravity of the situation. Even if an ordinary person passed away from consuming health supplements, it spelled big trouble for those who sold them. And when the deceased happened to be Quinn, the stakes were even higher.<br /> She understood that it would be difficult for this branch to stay in Yeadeo, and even the headquarters might face repercussions.<br /> "Let's go in and have a look." Wesley glanced at Mia. "There might still be a chance."<br /> "Ah..." Mia stared at Wesley in surprise. Seeing him already heading towards the room, she quickly followed suit.<br /> Inside the room, the members of the Kingsley family stood around the mattress, maintaining a certain distance.<br /> Scott lit the alcohol lamp and took out the needles, his expression solemn.<br /> He looked at the members of the Kingsley family. "Think about what you want to say to Mr. Kingsley later. Once you're ready, let me know, and then I'll proceed with the acupuncture."<br /> As he said this, tears welled up in many eyes.<br /> "If you don't mind, let me take a look. I have a way." Wesley spoke up, drawing everyone's attention.<br /> Amanda's face darkened. "Who let you in? Get out!"<br /> "Mia, have you lost your mind? Tricked by this trash and actually brought him here as a miracle healer. Get out with him! I'll settle the score with you in a couple of days."<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, at a loss for words.<br /> "Even Mr. Phillips is unable to reverse the situation. What use are you? Get out." Another younger member of the Kingsley family angrily rebuked.<br /> The middle-aged gent added, "We're in no mood right now. You better leave immediately."<br /> "I understand your narrow-mindedness," Wesley continued, "But as a healer, once I see a patient, I cannot stand by and watch him draw his last breath."<br /> "Wesley, you're quite the charlatan. Do you really want to be gone right now?" Amanda's voice was filled with anger.<br /> "Amanda, let me say a few words," Scott interjected, and Amanda fell silent.<br /> Looking at Wesley, Scott began. "Young lad, at my age, I've seen a lot and have a broad perspective. Today, however, I find it hard to remain indifferent. I practiced medicine from the age of sixteen until I stopped seeing patients for a total of seventy years."<br /> "I've saved countless patients from various illnesses. I never easily declare a patient's fate, nor do I believe I have the right to do so."<br /> "But from your recent remarks, it seems like you're accusing me of such actions. Young people wanting to make a name for themselves by stepping on the shoulders of their predecessors, I can understand."<br /> "But this kind of behavior displeases me."<br /> "My displeasure, what does it mean to you? Do you understand?"<br /> "Even if you are a healer, your career will be ruined because of this."<br /> Chapter 6 Hand of Hell<br /> In the face of Scott's veiled threats, Wesley simply smiled and brushed them off.<br /> Looking at Scott, he asked, "I've always focused on the issue at hand rather than attacking individuals. I have a few questions for you. If you can't administer the needles, how long do you think Quinn can hold on?"<br /> "Seven days, but he will remain unconscious," Scott replied bluntly.<br /> "Then let me ask you this, is there anyone in the world with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "Outrageous," Amanda coldly interjected, "Mr. Phillips is unparalleled in his medical expertise."<br /> Scott glanced at Amanda. "Amanda, let me handle this question."<br /> Continuing to address Wesley, he said, "I don't underestimate myself, nor do I overestimate. There are countless talented individuals in the world, like stars in the sky. I may not dare claim to be the best in medical skills, but those who surpass me are few."<br /> "That means there are some," Wesley calmly remarked, causing Scott's expression to shift slightly, "Indeed, there are."<br /> "Then let me ask you this. Do you think within seven days, the Kingsley family won't find someone with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "If they do find someone, do you believe there is an illness that you cannot cure, but this person can?"<br /> Wesley's questions were sharp and resounding.<br /> Scott's face changed once more as he was rendered speechless.<br /> "Even if there is, that person will never be you." Amanda's face turned icy. "Now get out. Don't spout your eloquence here. Your deceitful behavior is repulsive."<br /> "Your understanding of me is merely hearsay, isn't it?" Wesley retorted, his gaze mocking Amanda, "Has your background and education taught you such arrogance and prejudice?"<br /> "Arrogance?" Amanda's face grew colder as she disdainfully looked at Wesley. "Prejudice?<br /> "Did I say something wrong just now? You are nothing but stagnant waste, a parasite living off others. If it weren't for Taylor, you would have starved on the streets long ago."<br /> "Relying on sweet words, deceiving Taylor. She, with her kind heart, can't bear to divorce you, but don't push your luck. If it weren't for Taylor's sake, you would have been sent out long ago."<br /> Scott interrupted Amanda, "Amanda, although I find this lad a bit annoying, what he said does hold some truth. There are indeed individuals with better medical skills than me. Your grandfather can hold on for seven days. Try reaching out to see if someone can come over. I'll help you make connections."<br /> "If it really doesn't work out after seven days, I'll administer the needles to your grandfather. However, at that point, I can only buy you three minutes."<br /> As soon as Scott spoke, the faces of the Kingsley family members grew even more solemn. True healers were rare and not easily summoned.<br /> While the Kingsley family had connections in Yeadeo, their influence waned outside of it.<br /> "Mr. Phillips, please administer the needles. Life has its ups and downs, and we understand that. Just buy my father a bit more time." The middle-aged gent spoke up.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family nodded in agreement.<br /> Amanda looked at Scott. "Mr. Phillips, please."<br /> "In that case, please have everyone unrelated leave. I need silence," Scott calmly stated.<br /> Amanda glared at Wesley, her eyes speaking volumes without a word.<br /> The unrelated individuals were, naturally, Wesley and Mia.<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, intending to leave, but she suddenly hesitated.<br /> Instead of leaving, Wesley moved forward.<br /> "What are you doing?" A young member of the Kingsley family stepped forward with a stern expression, pushing Wesley.<br /> In one swift motion, Wesley executed a clean shoulder throw, toppling the young gent to the ground, his own expression turning cold.<br /> "A bunch of fools! If it weren't for my teacher's teachings about not turning a blind eye to those in need, I wouldn't bother with you ignorant lot," Wesley remarked with disdain.<br /> As Wesley effortlessly took down one individual from the Kingsley family, the others seemed slow to react.<br /> By the time they realized what was happening, Wesley had already picked up the needle next to Scott and casually flicked his wrist.<br /> The needle flew out of his hand, piercing Quinn's temple, followed by a second needle, a third needle, and so on.<br /> "What are you doing? Stop!" Amanda's voice rose in urgency, echoed by the rest of the Kingsley family members who rushed forward to restrain Wesley.<br /> "Stay back, everyone. Wait." Scott suddenly stood up, blocking the others. "Let him try."<br /> Amanda and the others were left dumbfounded, thinking, "What does this mean?"<br /> Despite their confusion, they heeded Scott's words.<br /> After Scott stopped the members of the Kingsley family, he fixed his gaze on Wesley.<br /> Wesley proceeded to use eighteen needles in succession, symbolizing the levels of pain.<br /> Even if someone had descended into the depths of hell, they must be brought back.<br /> The final needle, also piercing a vital point, caused Quinn's body to tremble suddenly, resonating with the previous eighteen needles.<br /> Scott's eyes widened, his body trembling slightly. His reaction left Amanda and the others even more puzzled, but none dared to interrupt.<br /> Moments later, Wesley placed a palm on Quinn's chest, causing all eighteen needles to be shaken off. When all the needles landed on the ground, the part of the skin where the needles had pierced turned dark.<br /> Wesley then dragged Quinn to the edge of the mattress, flipped him over with his head facing downwards, and gave him a firm pat on the back.<br /> Quinn spat out a mouthful of black liquid. When Wesley flipped him back to lie flat, his complexion had regained some color.<br /> "The Hand of Darkness... It's the Hand of Darkness!" Scott exclaimed with excitement, his body quivering, "It's the Hand that descends into the dark world, snatching people from the hands of the Evil!"<br /> "You do have some knowledge, recognizing the Hand of Darkness." Wesley glanced at Scott.<br /> Scott's gaze towards Wesley had undergone a drastic change. He respectfully clasped his hands together.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thirty years ago, I had the honor of attending a teaching conference held by Mr. Vanderbilt. I saw the Hand of Darkness, but my limited aptitude only allowed me to grasp the basics."<br /> "I have been blind and ignorant. I apologize for my earlier offenses. Please forgive me, Mr. Harrington."<br /> The Mr. Vanderbilt Scott referred to was Wesley's teacher, Ulysses Vanderbilt. He generously imparted his skills to others, but the ability to learn depended on one's innate talent.<br /> In this world, few could learn Ulysses' skills.<br /> Scott had been fortunate to receive guidance from Ulysses, which had elevated his medical skills. However, the Hand of Darkness, a miraculous ability, was beyond his comprehension.<br /> Wesley smiled faintly, "Your actions earlier are understandable. I appreciate your words."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you must be an exceptional disciple of Mr. Vanderbilt, possessing unparalleled magnanimity. Impressive," Scott continued.<br /> "Enough with the flattery at your age."<br /> "You are mistaken, Mr. Harrington. Every word I speak is sincere."<br /> Mia, Amanda, and the others stood bewildered by the unfolding situation.<br /> "Mr. Phillips... he... he..." Amanda's words faltered.<br /> Scott turned to the members of the Kingsley family. "Meeting Mr. Harrington was Quinn's luck. His symptoms have been cured by Mr. Harrington. With a few days of rest, he will be fine."<br /> The waste Taylor had previously said was called Mr. Harrington by Scott!<br /> Recalling their previous attitudes, Amanda hurriedly apologized, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> The members of the Kingsley family all apologized in unison, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> Chapter 7 Eight Plates of Noodles<br /> With a faint smile, Wesley remarked, "As family members of a patient, your actions earlier are understandable. There's no need for such formality."<br /> Amanda's perplexity deepened as she thought, "Where is the cowardly waste that Taylor described? This display of magnanimity and breadth is far from it."<br /> Mia, too, felt a shiver of realization, thinking, "No wonder Dad has insisted on my proximity to Wesley.<br /> This guy..."<br /> She gazed at Wesley, her curiosity piqued, a sense of exploration stirring within her.<br /> "Mia has brought you here, Mr. Harrington, to cure my grandfather. The Kingsley family will never forget this act. However, considering that my grandfather's ailment stemmed from the health supplements produced by the Vinver Business Alliance, we will be conducting an investigation into it."<br /> Amanda continued, looking at Wesley, "What do you think... of this approach?"<br /> It was Mia who had invited Wesley, so Amanda had grown wiser, refraining from asking for a direct punishment of the Vinver Business Alliance.<br /> As Mia heard Amanda's words, her heart skipped a beat, realizing trouble was brewing.<br /> "On the way here, Ms. Roberts briefed me on the situation. You conducted experiments on mice, correct?"<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes, the health supplements we received were exclusively provided by the Roberts family. There were no similar cases on the market, so we used mice for testing.<br /> "All the mice that ingested this supplement were gone."<br /> She looked at Mia and added, her voice turned colder. "Before the experiment, I specifically contacted Mia to inquire about the testing methods during the development phase, which involved mice."<br /> "There have been individuals eyeing my grandfather's position, some even wishing for his demise. I never imagined that the Vinver Business Alliance, which I attracted for investment, would become a weapon in someone else's hands."<br /> "Do you have any of the remaining medicine?" Wesley inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes."<br /> "Bring some over."<br /> Immediately, someone fetched the medicine. After it was brought to him, Wesley took out a supplement and swallowed it directly.<br /> This scene left Amanda and the others dumbfounded.<br /> Scott, too, was bewildered. "Mr. Harrington, what are you doing?"<br /> Wesley smiled, "Just proving that this medicine is not toxic."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thank you," Mia thanked sincerely, feeling like sobbing at that moment.<br /> Amanda, with a puzzled expression, looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, are you suggesting that my grandfather's condition wasn't caused by the Vinver Business Alliance's medicine? What about the mice?"<br /> The rest were equally puzzled.<br /> "Yes, but not entirely," Wesley said, leaving everyone even more bewildered.<br /> Mia's emotions were like a rollercoaster ride, from relief to immediate tension.<br /> "This medicine itself is not toxic, but when taken with another substance made from a certain plant, it results in Quinn's condition. The mice would die immediately, while humans could endure a few more days."<br /> Wesley continued to explain, "The plant used in this concoction is originally meant for crafting slow-acting toxins, not for human consumption."<br /> Looking at Amanda, Wesley said, "During this period, whoever had access to your grandfather and the mice will better understand why these events occurred."<br /> The gaze of members of the Kingsley family immediately focused on a lady.<br /> Amanda, somewhat incredulous, looked at her. "Can you offer an explanation?"<br /> The lady was the wife of Amanda's deceased brother. She found it hard to accept, as did the rest of the Kingsley family.<br /> This lady had been named the exemplary lady who served her family well this year, not due to her connection with the Kingsley family but because she genuinely deserved it.<br /> "What do you mean? Amanda, what explanation do you want from me?"<br /> The lady stared at Amanda. "Am I the only one who had access to Grandfather and the mice? You, and you... and you, who didn't have access?"<br /> "You all claim to treat me as family. Since I married into the Kingsley family, I have worked diligently, contributing my share even if not acknowledged."<br /> "Amanda, it has been over a year since your brother passed, and I never once considered remarrying. Now, just because of his words, you demand an explanation from me?"<br /> Pointing at Wesley, the lady questioned, "Just because he accuses me of poisoning, you suspect me? Tell me, did I poison him?" The lady glared at Wesley.<br /> "I am merely analyzing the facts. As for concluding this case, it's not within my purview," Wesley addressed the members of the Kingsley family, saying, "You should conduct a thorough investigation into this matter.<br /> "I will write a prescription. Have Quinn take it on time, and he will recover in seven days."<br /> Amanda hurried to fetch paper and pen while Wesley prepared the prescription. Once done, he was ready to leave.<br /> Amanda said hurriedly, "Mr. Harrington, I've already made arrangements for lunch."<br /> "No need," Wesley smiled.<br /> The Kingsley family sought to build closer ties with Wesley, given his extraordinary medical skills. Wesley was well aware of this.<br /> Looking at Amanda and the others, Wesley remarked, "In the future, if you encounter any difficult medical cases that others cannot solve, seek me out. Remember, cases others cannot solve."<br /> The gaze of the Kingsley family members toward Wesley changed once again. Many renowned healers had eccentric personalities and were difficult to engage.<br /> They hadn't expected Wesley to possess such remarkable medical skills without any airs.<br /> As Wesley prepared to depart, the members of the Kingsley family did not dare to insist on his stay, so they accompanied him outside.<br /> "Oh, how could we forget such an important matter? Amanda, what about the consultation fee?" The middle-aged gent inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the oversight. Please wait a moment." Amanda hurried back inside and soon returned with a bank card in hand.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, there's one million dollars in here."<br /> Without hesitation, Wesley accepted the bank card and boarded Mia's car.<br /> During the journey, Mia boldly looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, you've helped me immensely. Can I treat you to a meal? Don't decline in a hurry. It's not a fancy restaurant, but it will leave you wanting more. It's a small place on the street, with only eight plates of noodles served each day, each plate containing different ingredients."<br /> "I managed to secure a reservation. Are you interested?"<br /> Wesley thought, "Eight Plates of Noodles?<br /> "Ah, Aaron's restaurant. It has been a while since I visited those old friends."<br /> Wesley nodded. "Let's go then."<br /> The restaurant, Eight Plates of Noodles, was located on Chanxold Street near the Yeadeo First Central Hospital.<br /> The establishment was small, serving only eight plates of noodles each day at a price of 10 thousand dollars each. Vernoic's television culinary program had specifically covered this incident.<br /> Reservations were a must to secure a plate.<br /> The restaurant's owner had a mysterious background. While the specifics were unknown, a high-ranking noble from the capital of Vernoic, Kingsland, had caused a scene there once.<br /> He had attempted to force his way in without a reservation. Although this incident hadn't been reported, rumors suggested that a garbage truck had to be called to dispose of the intruder's remains, as he was too shattered to be removed by conventional means.<br /> Since then, no one dared to cause trouble.<br /> On their way, Mia introduced Wesley to the background story.<br /> "Mr. Turner, two plates of noodles." Mia called out once they arrived.<br /> Aaron Turner didn't respond but visibly paused upon seeing Wesley beside Mia.<br /> A faint smile appeared on his usually stoic face. Though the flesh on the face seemed stiff, it was indeed a smile. "Coming right up."<br /> Chapter 8 You Are Blushing<br /> Mia glanced at Aaron with a hint of surprise, thinking, "When does he become so warm and enthusiastic?<br /> His tone seemed a bit agitated earlier, didn't it?"<br /> Soon enough, Aaron brought two plates of noodles to the table. One steaming hot and the other devoid of any warmth.<br /> As Mia observed Aaron placing the plate without steam in front of Wesley, her expression changed slightly.<br /> It was a plate of instant noodles having soaked in cold water, with the seasoning barely dissolved.<br /> She felt a sense of panic. Mia had wanted to leave a good impression on Wesley, which was why she had chosen this place.<br /> However, Aaron had served such a plate of noodles.<br /> She dared not question Aaron. The type of noodles served here was not determined by the guests but by Aaron's mood.<br /> "This lass named Mia is quite something, living up to her name, and quite kind-hearted," Aaron remarked, looking at Wesley.<br /> "Get lost," Wesley retorted, using his fork to pick up the noodles and devouring them.<br /> Mia's face turned pale instantly. Disrespecting Aaron was akin to risking Wesley's life.<br /> To her astonishment, Aaron chuckled, tears welling up in his eyes.<br /> He wiped them away. "Alright, I'll leave you to your meal."<br /> Before departing, he gave Mia a thumbs-up. "Seize the opportunity."<br /> The eight plates of noodles symbolized the eight comrades who had faced life and hardships together.<br /> Wesley ate voraciously. Initially, they had only one pack of instant noodles to share among the eight of them, forcing them to divide it.<br /> Despite the circumstances, they devoured the noodles joyfully.<br /> Aaron had promised that once they survived, each one would have the most delicious plate of noodles.<br /> However, five of the eight had perished.<br /> Wesley had come dangerously close to life-threatening situations, but managed to cling to life.<br /> For him, the plate of noodles was not food but the bond of friendship that had shielded him from harm.<br /> "Do you... know each other?" Mia couldn't help but ask, her voice low and curious.<br /> "Some things are better left unknown," Wesley replied.<br /> Mia nodded in understanding, falling silent as they continued eating noodles. She couldn't help stealing glances at Wesley throughout the meal.<br /> This gent had piqued her curiosity even more.<br /> "Wesley, I see. No wonder you agreed to the divorce so readily. You've already found someone else outside."<br /> A sharp voice interrupted their meal.<br /> Taylor approached with a cold expression, accompanied by Henry.<br /> Taylor's mother was in the nearby hospital, and she had just picked up Frank, planning to buy some food when she unexpectedly saw Wesley.<br /> Of course, she saw Mia, too.<br /> Seeing Wesley dining with a lady more attractive than herself, so soon after the divorce felt like a dagger twisting in Taylor's heart.<br /> Her anger was uncontrollable.<br /> Wesley merely glanced at Taylor, disinterested in engaging with her.<br /> Taylor was stung by his indifferent gaze. She stepped forward, glaring at Wesley. "Are you not going to explain to me?"<br /> Mia looked at Taylor, silently cursing her as a foolish lady.<br /> Wesley continued eating his noodles, lowering his head. "Get lost. Don't disturb me, or I won't hesitate to hit you."<br /> "What did you say?" Henry stepped forward, enraged. "Wesley, try laying a hand on her! Is that all you're capable of? Laying hands on ladies?"<br /> "No wonder Taylor looks down on you. You're truly disgusting trash. Apologize to Taylor now, or else you'll regret coming into this world."<br /> "And how will he regret it? Tell me." Aaron emerged, carrying a cleaver, smiling as he faced Henry and Taylor.<br /> "Mr. Turner, we dare not cause trouble in your place, but this guy is just..."<br /> Henry attempted to speak but was cut off as Aaron's cleaver struck his face, sending him sprawling to the ground.<br /> "Mr. Turner, sorry, we'll leave now." Taylor hastily helped Henry up and hurriedly left.<br /> These two individuals were fortunate to know the legendary story behind Eight Plates of Noodles and had successfully made reservations to dine here multiple times.<br /> Having distanced themselves a bit, Henry covered his face and pointed at Wesley. "Wesley, we have some unfinished business. If you're smart, come over here now and apologize."<br /> "Wesley, I've seen through you as well. I never expected that for the past five years, you've been using my money to keep a lady on the side. We'll settle the score slowly."<br /> As the two noticed Aaron glancing their way, they quickly shut their mouths and hurriedly left.<br /> Once they were out of eyeshots, Aaron fixed his gaze on Wesley. "Your dad doesn't know about your divorce yet, does he?"<br /> "What difference would it make if he did?" Wesley stretched lazily. "I've fulfilled my promise. I've given enough."<br /> Aaron nodded in acknowledgment without saying anything further.<br /> This piqued Mia's curiosity even more. "Is it like what the novels depict? Did you marry Taylor due to some special event?"<br /> Seeing Wesley's glare, Mia lowered her head to focus on her noodles. "I won't ask anymore."<br /> "For the past five years, you've been staying in the stairwell. It has been hard for you, but at least you're still untouched," Aaron remarked before swiftly departing.<br /> Mia stared at Wesley in disbelief, realizing that Aaron's words were meant for her ears.<br /> "What are you staring at? Eat your noodles," Wesley said. Mia chuckled.<br /> "Why are you laughing?"<br /> "You're blushing."<br /> "Nonsense," Wesley retorted.<br /> Unable to contain herself, Mia burst into laughter. She had tried to hold it in, but seeing Wesley's flushed face made it impossible.<br /> Ten minutes later, Mia left on her own accord, sensing that Wesley had something to discuss with Aaron.<br /> Inside Aaron's small shop, Wesley opened a bottle of wine. "Still single?"<br /> "I look too old, no one's interested," Aaron replied, opening a bottle of liquor as well.<br /> "Then why are you meddling in my love lives?"<br /> "Leave a child behind, even if you pass away, someone will remember you." Aaron took a sip. "I've actually investigated this Mia."<br /> "You investigated her?"<br /> "I knew you'd get a divorce. I've been keeping an eye on the pretty ones. This girl had done a lot of good deeds before coming to Yeadeo. Once, she saved three people in a flood and nearly lost her life. Opportunities are rare. You have to seize them."<br /> "When you've figured things out and are ready to marry, then we can discuss our affairs. That's the condition." Wesley downed the entire bottle of liquor.<br /> "Otherwise, don't bother meddling. We're on a one-way path and can't drag others along."<br /> "You..." Aaron sighed as he watched Wesley's retreating figure.<br /> On the road leading to the Feidgeuo Manor, Taylor stood gazing blankly at the entrance not far away.<br /> Twice in one day, she had come here.<br /> The first time was to pick up Frank, and this time was because Frank had lost his expensive watch. She and Henry hadn't even had a meal, rushing over to find it.<br /> The first time, she had come in a hurry when Frank was injured and left quickly as well.<br /> But this time, as Taylor looked at the entrance ahead, an infinite longing sprouted within her.<br /> "If only... I could live here, how wonderful that would be."<br /> Henry looked at her. "One day, I'll definitely build an estate more magnificent than this, and you'll be the lady of the house."<br /> As they conversed, a taxi drove by, stopping at the entrance. The person who got out of the taxi left Taylor stunned.<br /> She rubbed her eyes. | Adoread | 478 | https://facebook.com/61556400142540 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713510000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846804 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446611 | 1735168082 | 890 | 1426859107917810 | 4 | 1.0750287970217E+15 | 1715065200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120206467056180695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1712240564 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434887251_3273516259616813_4965928032027185860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ITie4m6mDmcQ7kNvgF39Sy7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAcTA20T57nzysouEuK_o7pZp3Y0XqyL2fgucP3yDHGEg&oe=6663EDC2 | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434948003_814909497119687_9211098532922127326_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x7WiDOdWsTYQ7kNvgESVFnJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBulFosd9SXN4G0tMRKNSznqK_fnZdYowVwZ6iongagTg&oe=66640C13 | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846713 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446607 | 1735168082 | 890 | 377298025300408 | 2 | 1.7334133138173E+15 | 1713769200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 226177680578601 | 0 | Adoread | 120207756044620265 | client.adoread.com | Learn more | NONE | image | 🔥🔥🔥 Read More👉 | Hottest novel👉👉👉 | https://client.adoread.com/book/loading/page/adoread/19161308412?utm_campaign={{campaign.id}}&utm_content={{campaign.name}} | 1713536880 | 2.261776805786E+14 | Adoread | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438162152_827264979441253_8630164044163185256_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MyEOB6DPpoEQ7kNvgEAxdw1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDCcMVtlYt-QdiEjxNqyn6rMIzIORyN_yItALxX4347-Q&oe=6663F22E | person_profile | 0 | Adoread | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438058317_2237734986570683_1472772240083529734_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vMLuurYt8kUQ7kNvgHKV5J5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCZkKo7e3qofkatWYsBvRndqXDgw4V28Wzsql-RcGO4oQ&oe=6663FC50 | 0 | 3 | "Wesley, are you trying to harm me? You useless piece of trash, can't even make a decent cup of coffee, can you?"<br /> Madison Blair lifted her coffee cup and splashed it directly onto Wesley Harrington's face.<br /> "What are you looking at, you spineless waste? Your name sounds so lofty? I might as well call you a waste."<br /> Glancing at the grotesque expression of his wife's mother, Wesley pulled out his phone to check the time.<br /> Exactly twelve o'clock. It had been five full years since he married Taylor Reed.<br /> The appointed time had come.<br /> He had fulfilled his promise, safeguarding the Reed family for five years, transforming them from a family living off fishing to one perceived as affluent by the common folk.<br /> Wiping the coffee off his face, he turned and walked away.<br /> "Where do you think you're going? Go fetch some more coffee," Madison shouted.<br /> "Madison, didn't you say this waste is obedient at home, doing whatever he's told? I don't think he's taking it lying down."<br /> Madison grew angrier. "Wesley, you stop right there. My family has fed and housed you. If you dare disobey, I'll have you thrown out!"<br /> Ignoring her, Wesley continued downstairs.<br /> "When Taylor comes back, I'll immediately have you two divorced. Do you hear me? Stay right there," Madison threatened, "I'll let you know your place today."<br /> Grabbing a golf club, Madison swiftly charged towards Wesley.<br /> Seeing Wesley heading downstairs, she swung the club viciously at his back.<br /> Without turning back, Wesley gently sidestepped.<br /> Losing her balance, Madison tumbled forward, rolling down the stairs with a series of thumps.<br /> "Ouch... it hurts, it hurts so much!"<br /> As Madison reached the ground floor, she wailed in pain and her sister immediately rushed to her.<br /> "Wesley, what have you done? How dare you hit my sister!" Madison's sister hurried down, checking on Madison's condition.<br /> Wesley remained silent, observing the scene.<br /> "Quick, call Taylor. Tell her to come back. Today, she must divorce this waste." Madison glared at Wesley. "How dare you hit me? Not only will I let Taylor divorce you, but I'll make sure you leave in disgrace."<br /> "Mum, what's wrong?" At that moment, a gent and a lady walked in.<br /> The lady was Taylor, Madison's daughter.<br /> She ran towards Madison.<br /> As Madison pointed at Wesley, tears streamed down her face. "Taylor, he hit me, he hit me! When you're not home, he changes his attitude, scolding and hitting me in the slightest displeasure. He even pushed me down the stairs just now. Alexis can testify."<br /> Madison's sister, Alexis Blair, chimed in. "Yes, Wesley, this trash not only hit your mother but also threatened to hit me too. We cannot tolerate such trash."<br /> "Taylor, I have been telling you to divorce him for years. You've been supporting him, treating him like a Lord at home, but he's an ungrateful wolf in sheep's clothing."<br /> Helping Madison up, Taylor noticed the scrapes on Madison's arms and legs, her expression turning cold.<br /> "Wesley, why did you hit my mother? You better give me an explanation."<br /> Wesley looked at Taylor, his wife.<br /> Five years had passed, and she had never shown him kindness.<br /> Taylor dressed impeccably, a paragon of a successful lady, with a face that could be deemed angelic, yet whether her heart was as angelic remained a mystery.<br /> Her figure, too, left countless men yearning.<br /> For five years, Wesley had thought he might develop feelings for this lady, but in reality, it never happened.<br /> "There are surveillance cameras in the house," Wesley stated calmly before descending the stairs into the hallway.<br /> Despite residing in a three-story villa, Wesley's living quarters were confined to the stairwell.<br /> He harbored no resentment towards this arrangement. It was merely a promise. It was just that Taylor failed to appreciate him.<br /> This home held little value that he wished to cling onto.<br /> Retrieving a wooden box from beneath his pillow, Wesley extracted two documents. Casting a fleeting glance at the modest abode he had called home for five years, Wesley smiled faintly.<br /> He thought, "Finally... I'm free."<br /> Pushing the door ajar, Wesley was met by Taylor's piercing gaze. "I've reviewed the surveillance footage. Yes, my mother intended to strike you, but even if she did, what difference would it make?"<br /> "She's a lady. How much could her blows hurt you? Why did you dodge?"<br /> "If you hadn't dodged, my mother wouldn't have tumbled down." Wesley stared at Taylor, unable to comprehend her thought process.<br /> He had no interest in engaging in these arguments. Handing over the two documents to Taylor, he remarked, "The divorce agreement. I've already signed it. Take a look. I'm leaving with nothing."<br /> "With your current influence, there's no need for you to visit the city hall. Someone will handle it for you, right?"<br /> Madison was taken aback. She swiftly snatched the divorce agreement, flipping through it hastily.<br /> The contents were indeed straightforward. Both parties willingly divorced, with Wesley relinquishing all claims and having already signed.<br /> In an instant, Madison's pain seemed to dissipate. "Taylor, sign it quickly. Sign it."<br /> Taylor was still in a daze.<br /> She pondered.<br /> "A divorce agreement? Wesley has already prepared a divorce agreement. On what grounds?"<br /> "What gives him the right to initiate a divorce? All these years, he's done nothing at home, lacking any ambition. Always practicing martial arts, what right does he have to seek a divorce?"<br /> "If anyone should initiate it, it should be me. Moreover, now that I'm back to discussing this matter with him. Could it be that word got out, and Wesley, for the sake of his pride, rushed to prepare a divorce agreement first?"<br /> "It must be so, but... No!"<br /> "Wanting to leave with nothing, is he retreating to advance? As the chairman of the Reed Group, how could I be served with a divorce?"<br /> "Hey Wesley, I never expected this from you. Have I not treated you well enough? You seek a divorce, attempting to turn your retreat into advance, aiming to embarrass me?"<br /> Taylor glared at Wesley. "I'm telling you, it's impossible."<br /> Snatching the divorce agreement, she tore it to shreds.<br /> "Taylor, what are you doing? Such a great opportunity. Why not just sign it and let him leave?" Madison grew anxious.<br /> "Mom, I do intend to divorce this trash, but the decision must come from me. I returned specifically to address this matter."<br /> With that, Taylor produced two documents. "Wesley, remember that it's me who's divorcing you. It's me who no longer wants you. Initially, out of marital obligation, I had considered offering you some compensation. Now, you don't even need to think about it. Sign the divorce agreement and leave my home."<br /> Wesley offered a faint smile as he accepted the divorce agreement.<br /> "What are you laughing at?" Taylor demanded angrily.<br /> Wesley's smile seemed to mock her, fueling her rage.<br /> Ignoring her entirely, Wesley signed the document and handed it over.<br /> "What are you laughing at? Answer me! Who do you think you are?" Taylor roared once more.<br /> Wesley glanced at her before striding towards the exit.<br /> "Stop!" The gent who had accompanied Taylor stepped forward, blocking Wesley's path. "Taylor asked you a question, and... Your previous attitude displeased me. Apologize to Taylor, or I'll have you leave in disgrace!"<br /> Chapter 2 The Unspoken Truth<br /> <br /> "Yes, let him leave in disgrace. He thought he could just hit me and walk away so easily," Madison joined in the commotion, also noticing the gent blocking Wesley's path.<br /> Madison had a keen interest in luxury goods, having frequented various high-end establishments over the years as the Reed family's living conditions improved. The gent was wearing an expensive watch and dressed head to toe in high-end luxury brands.<br /> Seeing Madison's gaze, the gent spoke. "Rest assured, today Wesley must pay the price."<br /> The gent introduced himself, looking at Wesley, "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Henry Clark, the eldest son of the Clark family and the general manager of the Clark Group in the North District."<br /> "From now on, I will accompany Taylor on her journey of life, and I will not allow anyone to bully her."<br /> "My identity carries weight. You should understand that. Now, apologize to Taylor. Apologize! Did you hear me? Apologize!"<br /> Madison's eyes lit up. She hadn't expected the gent before her to hold such a high status. She continued to shout, "Did you hear that? Taylor will be with Mr. Clark from now on. Apologize now."<br /> Wesley glanced at Henry, then at Taylor. He thought, "Have they been together all along?" Wesley had wanted to ask but decided against it because there was no need. He simply gave them a glance and continued walking towards the exit.<br /> "Are you ignoring me?" Henry's face turned cold as he reached out to grab Wesley. Henry's hand froze mid-air as he received a solid hit.<br /> "Until I sign the divorce papers, Taylor and I are still wife and husband. I don't care to investigate whether you two had any intimate relationship during that time, but don't provoke me, or I won't hesitate to make you regret it." Wesley's gaze was icy, and as Henry met his eyes, he felt a twinge of fear and swallowed his words.<br /> Taylor was also stunned. She knew exactly what Wesley had been like over the past five years. There were many surveillance cameras in the house, and she would often check them.<br /> Even when Taylor wasn't home, despite how her family treated Wesley, he always obeyed without complaint, especially towards her. He had never raised his voice, no matter how they treated him.<br /> Today, not only did Wesley dodge when her mother struck, but he also initiated the divorce and now even struck Henry. <br /> Taylor was at a loss for words, thinking, "How could this cowardly gent dare? On what grounds does he dare?"<br /> This change was difficult for Taylor to accept as if she didn't truly understand this guy. The gent who used to be obedient to her, completely submissive, now revealed this side of himself. She watched Wesley walk away in a daze, feeling a strange discomfort in her heart.<br /> "Isn't he leaving with nothing?" Alexis pointed at the wooden box Wesley was holding. "What is he taking with him?"<br /> Madison also realized. Over the past five years, Wesley had always treasured this wooden box, carrying it with him wherever he went. She thought there must be something valuable inside.<br /> Realizing this, Madison hurriedly followed. "Wesley, stop right there, leave the wooden box."<br /> Wesley paused, glanced at Madison, and said, "This is my personal belonging."<br /> "Nonsense, what personal belonging could you possibly have after marrying into the Reed family? Everything you've eaten, worn, and lived in over the years has been provided by the Reed family. Put it down."<br /> As she spoke, Madison reached out to grab the wooden box.<br /> "Ah..." A scream rang out as Madison quickly retracted her hand, a gash appearing on her palm, a crimson liquid dripping.<br /> The wooden box was now stained with the same crimson liquid, trembling lightly in Wesley's hand.<br /> "It's not the right time yet, the day you thirst for this crimson liquid will come," Wesley murmured softly, patting the box before turning to continue his stride towards the exit.<br /> "Monster! A monster!" Madison screamed, causing Taylor and the others to rush out. Seeing the wound in Madison's hand, Taylor was filled with rage.<br /> "Wesley, aren't you going to say something?" Wesley halted once more, contemplating before meeting Taylor's gaze.<br /> "Just stay out of my way from now on. Consider this a warning to you."<br /> "Taylor, that wooden box of his has a mechanism. It must hold something valuable! We can't let him take it with him," Madison, enduring the pain, reminded them.<br /> "Mom, your injury is important. We'll deal with him later. Let me take you to the hospital first." Taylor comforted Madison before calling out to the retreating Wesley.<br /> "Our marriage is over! Yet, you dared to hurt my mother! This won't be the end of it! I will make you regret it!" Ignoring her, Wesley continued walking out.<br /> "Rest assured, I promise he won't see the light of day tomorrow." Henry stepped forward to console. "Let's focus on getting your wound treated first."<br /> "I want him to regret ever existing in this world, to apologize to me in repentance," Madison roared.<br /> "Mom, trust me, I will make him do just that." Taylor looked at Madison with a mix of pity and determination. "Let's go to the hospital first."<br /> In the villa area, Wesley halted, his voice cold. "Get out."<br /> An elderly gent leaped down from a tree, appearing to be in his seventies, yet landing silently from a height of around ten feet.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, your father wants you to come home and take charge."<br /> "He stopped being my father five years ago. He's my enemy."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you misunderstood your father. He had his reasons back then. I swear in my life, once you know the truth, you will forgive him."<br /> "Huh!" Wesley smirked coldly, saying, "I nearly passed away back then. Is that also a misunderstanding?"<br /> The old gent pleaded, "Mr. Harrington, this situation is truly not as you perceive it."<br /> Wesley didn't engage further with the old guy. The events of that year were etched in his memory forever. He was the one who had been abandoned. If not for that incident, why would he have stayed with the Reed family for five years?<br /> Watching Wesley walk away, the old gent had tears silently streaming down his face. "Mr. Harrington, I truly... I truly can't bring myself to speak the truth, but you have misunderstood your father. He also bears burdens and endures pains beyond what an ordinary person can handle."<br /> As Wesley's figure disappeared, the old gent stood up, hesitated for a moment, then dialed a number on his phone.<br /> "Mr. Harrington is now divorced. I've given you the news firsthand. If your daughter is truly together with Mr. Harrington, you must fulfill the promise and let her persuade Mr. Harrington to come home."<br /> After hanging up, a middle-aged gent in a luxurious estate jumped up excitedly. Calming himself, he immediately made another call. "My dear, you're at Yeadeo, right?<br /> "Go find Wesley now. Don't mention the engagement for now. Use every means to get close to him, make him fall in love with you."<br /> "Dad, I don't have time."<br /> "No matter what you are busy with, you must go find Wesley now. No matter what reason you approach him, you must leave a good impression the first time."<br /> "Dad, I'm in trouble right now. If I don't handle it well, I might be good as gone. I have to deal with it immediately. I'm hanging up."<br /> Chapter 3 You're Nothing<br /> The middle-aged gent's voice lowered significantly. "Is there a big incident happening? You didn't tell me? What happened?"<br /> "Quinn Kingsley from Yeadeo, Mr. Kingsley, used our product and now has one foot on the grave. If something really happens to him..."<br /> "You mean Quinn, the uncontested leader of Yeadeo?"<br /> "Yes."<br /> "In that case, you should go find Wesley. Trust me, in this world, there is no problem that Wesley can't solve. As long as he's willing to help, you'll be fine. Listen to me, go find Wesley immediately."<br /> The lady fell silent for a moment before saying, "Okay."<br /> At Yeadeo Harbor, a gent with a large flaxen chain and a watch, sporting a crew cut, hurriedly disembarked, accompanied by a dozen gentlemen.<br /> "Mr. Reed, wherever that trash is, we will find him and tear him apart."<br /> "Yes, that guy dared to harm your mother. We'll make sure he pays for it."<br /> Frank Reed's face turned cold. "Wesley, you coward, thinking you can overturn the world? How dare you touch my mom? Just wait until I find you, you're finished."<br /> "We've found him. Wesley got into a taxi, and our boys followed him."<br /> "Let's go!" Frank waved his hand, leading dozens of men who boarded the car with harpoons, steel pipes, and other weapons.<br /> Inside the taxi, Wesley gazed at the scenery outside, feeling a strange sense of tranquility.<br /> He thought to himself, "I never imagined that while I was secretly paving the way for the Reed family, Taylor, after progressing so rapidly, would start looking down on me more and more."<br /> "Those ladies who know my true identity, which one of them isn't trying to throw themselves at me? Ladies like that don't interest me."<br /> "Being an ordinary gent is truly difficult," Wesley murmured, smiling faintly and deciding not to dwell on these matters anymore. He had important things to attend to and no time to waste on personal affairs.<br /> "Young lad, are you going to Feidgeuo Manor for a job interview?" The driver, curious about Wesley's destination, inquired.<br /> Feidgeuo Manor was Yeadeo's most mysterious private area. Originally a villa area, it was bought at a huge cost five years ago and completely renovated. It was said to have cost a trillion dollars. The former villa area was now Feidgeuo Manor.<br /> "That's my home," Wesley replied nonchalantly.<br /> The driver was taken aback by this revelation, silently cursing Wesley for bragging. After a couple of minutes, the driver regained his composure. "It seems like you and I both prefer to keep a low profile. My car usually gathers dust at home, so I occasionally drive a taxi to experience life."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "My car has been driven by my assistant for the past few years, so it's not gathering dust."<br /> "Haha..." The driver laughed. "We should get together sometime and see whose car is more impressive."<br /> "Sure, whenever we have the time."<br /> As they chatted, the vehicle soon arrived near Feidgeuo Manor, where the massive head of the Feidgeuo Peak protruded, creating a unique landscape in Yeadeo.<br /> The driver asked with a smile, "Since you're the owner here, it's fine if I drive in, right?"<br /> "Of course," Wesley replied.<br /> As soon as Wesley spoke, several cars caught up from behind.<br /> The cars surrounded the one Wesley was in, with the front vehicles braking to force the car to a stop.<br /> When numerous people descended from cars wielding harpoons and steel pipes, the driver's face paled.<br /> Frank and his group got out of the cars, instantly closing in, and without hesitation, started attacking, the steel pipes and harpoons thudding against the car.<br /> Frank's henchman yanked open the door of Wesley's car, poised to stab Wesley with a harpoon, but Wesley swiftly exited the vehicle.<br /> With a firm step on the ground, he launched a swift hit.<br /> A muffled sound echoed as the henchman was hit away.<br /> "What are you looking at?" Frank noticed his henchmen were all staring at him. "All of you, attack together and take him down!"<br /> As he commanded, the henchmen Frank brought with him surged forward.<br /> The taxi driver, trembling, took out his phone to call the police, but Frank glared at him. "I am Frank Reed from Yeadeo Harbor. If you dare, go ahead and make that call."<br /> Frank, leveraging his sister Taylor's status, had been causing trouble in Yeadeo Harbor, and no one dared to provoke him.<br /> Upon hearing Frank's name, the driver hastily put away his phone. "Mr. Reed, I'll just check the time, you guys continue."<br /> "Huh!" Frank snorted coldly, casting his gaze towards the surrounded Wesley.<br /> The sounds of thuds continued to ring out incessantly. Because Wesley was completely surrounded, Frank was unable to see the situation inside clearly, but he could imagine it. After all, in Frank's mind, the henchmen under his command were not to be trifled with.<br /> "Hit him hard for me!"<br /> Another muffled sound and a figure flew out. At that moment, Frank finally saw the situation clearly, and his face turned pale.<br /> Frank knew that Wesley liked to practice martial arts, but he had never expected Wesley to be this skilled. It wasn't Wesley who had been beaten, but his own men by Wesley alone.<br /> Frantically, Frank turned and ran to retrieve a crossbow from the car.<br /> "Clear the way." Frank bellowed, aiming the crossbow at Wesley.<br /> "You scumbag, you think you can fight? Move one more time, and I'll end your life! Surrender!"<br /> Wesley, holding a wooden box, stared at Frank. Ignoring the crossbow in his hand, Wesley said, "Tell your henchmen to back off, or you'll all see the light from above!"<br /> "You're really good at pretending to be tough." Frank took two steps forward. "See the light? Move a muscle and see if I can end your life or not! If you don't have the guts, apologize now!"<br /> Wesley turned his head and looked at the approaching cars, with two expensive ones in the lead, two more in the rear, and another one in the middle.<br /> "Keep acting tough, and I'll put a hole in your head." Frank spoke while glancing at the five cars. "What, looking for help?"<br /> "Let me tell you, those who ride in these cars are not the kind of weaklings like you who rely on connections. With me here, in Yeadeo's social hierarchy, even those who ride in such cars wouldn't dare meddle in this matter. And let me make it clear, without my sister, you're nothing."<br /> Chapter 4 Is He Worthy?<br /> As Frank's words faded, the five cars came to a halt.<br /> A bodyguard opened the door of the one in the middle, revealing a dazzling pair of shining shoes catching everyone's eye.<br /> The shining shoe encased a beautiful foot. Above, the skirt's hem was adorned with lace.<br /> Then, like a fairy stepping out of a painting, she appeared before everyone's eyes.<br /> The lady was beautiful!<br /> Frank was mesmerized. Ever since the Reed family rose to prominence, he had been surrounded by ladies, but compared to the elegant lady before him, they were worlds apart.<br /> It wasn't just a difference in appearance but an incomparable gap in demeanor.<br /> The lady descending from the Maybach seemed like a celestial being untouched by mortal affairs.<br /> The embodiment of a fairy in the mundane world.<br /> She simply stood there after getting out of the car, perfectly embodying what it meant to be graceful and elegant.<br /> The lady glanced at Wesley, then at Frank.<br /> Frank grinned, saying, "May I have the honor of knowing the name of this esteemed lady? I am Frank..."<br /> The lady spoke calmly. "Disrespect Mr. Harrington, and you're done for."<br /> Her bodyguards, unfazed by Frank's crossbow, swiftly overwhelmed him, sending him crashing to the ground.<br /> The henchmen who had come with Frank, previously defeated by Wesley, now scrambled to their feet and fled in all directions.<br /> Who would dare provoke someone who could afford such a car?<br /> "My sister is Taylor Reed, the chairperson of Reed Group," Frank shouted, clutching his head.<br /> Ignoring him, one of the bodyguards dragged him to the roadside grass while another used a belt to tighten around Frank's neck, exerting pressure.<br /> "Enough, a lesson is all that's needed." Wesley spoke calmly, and only when the lady gestured did the bodyguards release Frank.<br /> Frank lay there, already unconscious.<br /> Wesley turned to the lady. "Who are you?"<br /> "I am Mia Roberts, the general manager of Vinver Business Alliance's Yeadeo branch." She looked at Wesley and continued, "Mr. Harrington, my father mentioned that you have miraculous healing skills and earnestly requested your assistance. A generous reward awaits."<br /> Wesley furrowed his brow slightly, thinking, "There are indeed people who recognize my abilities and status, yet I've rarely intervened in the past five years. Today, shortly after I divorced Taylor, she is here. Whose arrangement is this?"<br /> "Mr. Harrington, my father also mentioned that you are benevolent and has raised the banner of compassion among healers, serving as a role model and benchmark for all in the medical field."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "You have a way with words. Tell me the specifics."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, please get in the car first. I will explain in detail on the way."<br /> The phrase "compassionate healer" held significant weight for Wesley, who had saved countless lives from the brink of death.<br /> Without further ado, he got into the car.<br /> Inside, after Mia brewed coffee for Wesley, she began. "Vinver Business Alliance has a wide range of business operations, and I mainly oversee the health supplement sector, which has seen some success in recent years.<br /> "Recently, Quinn Kingsley started using our medicines, and now there's an accident."<br /> As she spoke, Mia kept her gaze fixed on Wesley.<br /> Quinn, the undisputed leader of Yeadeo, was a figure of immense influence.<br /> Upon hearing this name, Wesley showed no particular reaction. "If the city's leader faces issues with your products, it is indeed a concern. Let's go and see."<br /> With just a sentence, Wesley leaned back in his seat, closing his eyes to rest.<br /> Mia was secretly alarmed, thinking, "He knows who Quinn is, yet he seems indifferent. Who is this Wesley, really? No wonder Dad has instructed me to find a way to win his favor." Mia's inner resistance toward Wesley quietly shifted.<br /> Wesley had piqued her curiosity.<br /> As the vehicle was moving, Wesley's phone rang.<br /> Wesley opened his eyes and took out his phone to see Taylor calling.<br /> Pressing the answer button, he asked, "What's the matter?"<br /> On the other end of the line, Taylor, driving towards Feidgeuo Manor, had a grim expression.<br /> She thought, "Has Wesley ever spoken to me in such a cold tone before? Is he really this heartless right after our divorce?"<br /> Already furious, she snapped. "Wesley, do you even consider yourself a human being?<br /> "Today, not only did you lay hands on my mother, but you also had someone attack my brother. Do you not remember our past at all?"<br /> Wesley calmly replied, "Do we have a past to remember?"<br /> "You truly are a heartless scumbag, just as my mother said. You are an ungrateful and vicious person I raised for five years. Even a pet would wag its tail at me!"<br /> Taylor wanted to continue her tirade, but the phone line had already turned busy.<br /> This only fueled her anger further.<br /> Just now, she had received a call from Frank's underlings, informing her that Wesley had sent people to attack Frank and even intended to end him.<br /> Taylor wanted to demand answers, but...<br /> As Taylor was clutching her fists, her gaze turned icy.<br /> After a moment, she picked up her phone again. "Wesley, you are so narrow-minded. You have no ambition. Any lady would steer clear of you."<br /> "Just because I dumped you, you are doing this on purpose to make me feel sick. Pretending to be aloof and seeking revenge? Do you even deserve it?"<br /> "In Yeadeo, squashing you would be as easy as squashing an ant. You're asking for it! If anything happens to my brother, I will make you wish you were ending!"<br /> Her furious voice message echoed in the car.<br /> Wesley chuckled and put away his phone.<br /> Beside him, Mia seemed contemplative. Before coming, she had already ordered a swift investigation into Wesley.<br /> She was curious, thinking, "How could someone valued by my father could be the one 'marrying into' the Reed family."<br /> Being tactful, Mia chose not to ask and pretended not to have heard.<br /> After about forty minutes, they arrived at the Kingsley Manor.<br /> The Kingsley family members, upon seeing Mia alight from the car, all wore grim expressions.<br /> Mia greeted them with a smile, "Everyone, this is Wesley Harrington, Mr. Harrington, the miraculous healer I specially invited to treat Mr. Kingsley."<br /> "Him? The gent who married into the Reed family?"<br /> "A miraculous healer? Is he even worthy? Are healers so worthless now?"<br /> "A useless gent who mooches off of the Reed family? How dare he call himself a miraculous healer? Truly a joke among all jokes."<br /> Chapter 5 Compassionate Healer<br /> Amanda Kingsley, Quinn's granddaughter, stared coldly at Wesley and Mia.<br /> This lady, dressed in a smart suit, also held significant fame in Yeadeo, overseeing the region's business activities, including investment attraction and various local business negotiations.<br /> Amanda had a favorable view of Taylor, who had risen swiftly in recent times, and they had interacted frequently.<br /> She was aware of Wesley's existence and had advised Taylor to part ways with him early on.<br /> But Amanda never imagined that Mia would bring someone like Wesley, a complete waste, and claim he was a miraculous healer.<br /> Glaring at Mia, she said, "Mia, once my grandfather is well, it's best for your Roberts family to leave Yeadeo."<br /> "As for you..." She glanced at Wesley. "I will advise Taylor to divorce you. You have deceived Taylor's feelings and now shamelessly made your way into my family. You are a despicable creature."<br /> After reprimanding Mia and Wesley, she turned to an elderly gent beside her, and her tone and attitude completely changed. "Mr. Phillips, sorry to trouble you. My grandfather is inside, please."<br /> Mia looked at the elderly gent, who was already in his twilight years, feeling deeply shocked.<br /> Scott Phillips, the 38th generation heir of the Healing Clinic, was now ninety-two years old.<br /> Renowned as a miraculous healer, he was a respected figure in the medical community of Yeadeo and even nationally.<br /> He no longer conducted consultations personally due to his old age. Mia had visited him specifically to pay her respects once she had arrived in Yeadeo but had not met Scott.<br /> She never expected Scott to appear in person. It was understandable, as Quinn held a prominent position in the city. Despite the profound influence of the Phillips family, they still had to show respect to Quinn.<br /> Mia looked at Wesley, feeling conflicted and thinking, "Dad has confidently claimed that Wesley has extraordinary abilities, but does he really?"<br /> She harbored doubts, but out of propriety, Mia spoke. "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the trouble."<br /> Wesley smiled, "It's fine. As long as the person can be healed."<br /> His open-mindedness impressed Mia.<br /> After about half an hour, Amanda emerged from the room. All eyes instantly turned towards her.<br /> It was evident that Amanda had wailed out, with traces of tears still visible.<br /> "Amanda, how is it?" A middle-aged gent anxiously asked her.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family who had rushed back also focused their attention on her.<br /> "Mr. Phillips said that there's little hope of recovery. He could only use acupuncture to wake grandfather for half an hour. When grandfather wakes up, let's all go in and see if he has any final instructions."<br /> Everyone was shocked.<br /> "How could this be?"<br /> "Is Mr. Phillips also helpless?"<br /> The members of the Kingsley family found it hard to accept this reality, especially since Quinn had always treated his juniors well.<br /> The thought of Quinn departing saddened some, and tears silently fell.<br /> Publicly, Quinn's status was the foundation of the Kingsley family's prominence in Yeadeo.<br /> If Quinn were to pass away, the Kingsley family would undoubtedly decline.<br /> The atmosphere within the Kingsley family was somber.<br /> Amanda looked at her family members, opened her mouth, but said nothing, silently turning back into the room.<br /> "Stop crying," A middle-aged gent said sternly, "Dad wouldn't want to see you all in tears. If he's really leaving, we mustn't let him worry about us. Pull yourselves together."<br /> After these words, the middle-aged gent also entered the room.<br /> The younger members of the Kingsley family wiped their tears vigorously, trying to force smiles, but in truth, they looked better at crying than pretending to be happy.<br /> Mia's spirit plummeted as she realized the gravity of the situation. Even if an ordinary person passed away from consuming health supplements, it spelled big trouble for those who sold them. And when the deceased happened to be Quinn, the stakes were even higher.<br /> She understood that it would be difficult for this branch to stay in Yeadeo, and even the headquarters might face repercussions.<br /> "Let's go in and have a look." Wesley glanced at Mia. "There might still be a chance."<br /> "Ah..." Mia stared at Wesley in surprise. Seeing him already heading towards the room, she quickly followed suit.<br /> Inside the room, the members of the Kingsley family stood around the mattress, maintaining a certain distance.<br /> Scott lit the alcohol lamp and took out the needles, his expression solemn.<br /> He looked at the members of the Kingsley family. "Think about what you want to say to Mr. Kingsley later. Once you're ready, let me know, and then I'll proceed with the acupuncture."<br /> As he said this, tears welled up in many eyes.<br /> "If you don't mind, let me take a look. I have a way." Wesley spoke up, drawing everyone's attention.<br /> Amanda's face darkened. "Who let you in? Get out!"<br /> "Mia, have you lost your mind? Tricked by this trash and actually brought him here as a miracle healer. Get out with him! I'll settle the score with you in a couple of days."<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, at a loss for words.<br /> "Even Mr. Phillips is unable to reverse the situation. What use are you? Get out." Another younger member of the Kingsley family angrily rebuked.<br /> The middle-aged gent added, "We're in no mood right now. You better leave immediately."<br /> "I understand your narrow-mindedness," Wesley continued, "But as a healer, once I see a patient, I cannot stand by and watch him draw his last breath."<br /> "Wesley, you're quite the charlatan. Do you really want to be gone right now?" Amanda's voice was filled with anger.<br /> "Amanda, let me say a few words," Scott interjected, and Amanda fell silent.<br /> Looking at Wesley, Scott began. "Young lad, at my age, I've seen a lot and have a broad perspective. Today, however, I find it hard to remain indifferent. I practiced medicine from the age of sixteen until I stopped seeing patients for a total of seventy years."<br /> "I've saved countless patients from various illnesses. I never easily declare a patient's fate, nor do I believe I have the right to do so."<br /> "But from your recent remarks, it seems like you're accusing me of such actions. Young people wanting to make a name for themselves by stepping on the shoulders of their predecessors, I can understand."<br /> "But this kind of behavior displeases me."<br /> "My displeasure, what does it mean to you? Do you understand?"<br /> "Even if you are a healer, your career will be ruined because of this."<br /> Chapter 6 Hand of Hell<br /> In the face of Scott's veiled threats, Wesley simply smiled and brushed them off.<br /> Looking at Scott, he asked, "I've always focused on the issue at hand rather than attacking individuals. I have a few questions for you. If you can't administer the needles, how long do you think Quinn can hold on?"<br /> "Seven days, but he will remain unconscious," Scott replied bluntly.<br /> "Then let me ask you this, is there anyone in the world with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "Outrageous," Amanda coldly interjected, "Mr. Phillips is unparalleled in his medical expertise."<br /> Scott glanced at Amanda. "Amanda, let me handle this question."<br /> Continuing to address Wesley, he said, "I don't underestimate myself, nor do I overestimate. There are countless talented individuals in the world, like stars in the sky. I may not dare claim to be the best in medical skills, but those who surpass me are few."<br /> "That means there are some," Wesley calmly remarked, causing Scott's expression to shift slightly, "Indeed, there are."<br /> "Then let me ask you this. Do you think within seven days, the Kingsley family won't find someone with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "If they do find someone, do you believe there is an illness that you cannot cure, but this person can?"<br /> Wesley's questions were sharp and resounding.<br /> Scott's face changed once more as he was rendered speechless.<br /> "Even if there is, that person will never be you." Amanda's face turned icy. "Now get out. Don't spout your eloquence here. Your deceitful behavior is repulsive."<br /> "Your understanding of me is merely hearsay, isn't it?" Wesley retorted, his gaze mocking Amanda, "Has your background and education taught you such arrogance and prejudice?"<br /> "Arrogance?" Amanda's face grew colder as she disdainfully looked at Wesley. "Prejudice?<br /> "Did I say something wrong just now? You are nothing but stagnant waste, a parasite living off others. If it weren't for Taylor, you would have starved on the streets long ago."<br /> "Relying on sweet words, deceiving Taylor. She, with her kind heart, can't bear to divorce you, but don't push your luck. If it weren't for Taylor's sake, you would have been sent out long ago."<br /> Scott interrupted Amanda, "Amanda, although I find this lad a bit annoying, what he said does hold some truth. There are indeed individuals with better medical skills than me. Your grandfather can hold on for seven days. Try reaching out to see if someone can come over. I'll help you make connections."<br /> "If it really doesn't work out after seven days, I'll administer the needles to your grandfather. However, at that point, I can only buy you three minutes."<br /> As soon as Scott spoke, the faces of the Kingsley family members grew even more solemn. True healers were rare and not easily summoned.<br /> While the Kingsley family had connections in Yeadeo, their influence waned outside of it.<br /> "Mr. Phillips, please administer the needles. Life has its ups and downs, and we understand that. Just buy my father a bit more time." The middle-aged gent spoke up.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family nodded in agreement.<br /> Amanda looked at Scott. "Mr. Phillips, please."<br /> "In that case, please have everyone unrelated leave. I need silence," Scott calmly stated.<br /> Amanda glared at Wesley, her eyes speaking volumes without a word.<br /> The unrelated individuals were, naturally, Wesley and Mia.<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, intending to leave, but she suddenly hesitated.<br /> Instead of leaving, Wesley moved forward.<br /> "What are you doing?" A young member of the Kingsley family stepped forward with a stern expression, pushing Wesley.<br /> In one swift motion, Wesley executed a clean shoulder throw, toppling the young gent to the ground, his own expression turning cold.<br /> "A bunch of fools! If it weren't for my teacher's teachings about not turning a blind eye to those in need, I wouldn't bother with you ignorant lot," Wesley remarked with disdain.<br /> As Wesley effortlessly took down one individual from the Kingsley family, the others seemed slow to react.<br /> By the time they realized what was happening, Wesley had already picked up the needle next to Scott and casually flicked his wrist.<br /> The needle flew out of his hand, piercing Quinn's temple, followed by a second needle, a third needle, and so on.<br /> "What are you doing? Stop!" Amanda's voice rose in urgency, echoed by the rest of the Kingsley family members who rushed forward to restrain Wesley.<br /> "Stay back, everyone. Wait." Scott suddenly stood up, blocking the others. "Let him try."<br /> Amanda and the others were left dumbfounded, thinking, "What does this mean?"<br /> Despite their confusion, they heeded Scott's words.<br /> After Scott stopped the members of the Kingsley family, he fixed his gaze on Wesley.<br /> Wesley proceeded to use eighteen needles in succession, symbolizing the levels of pain.<br /> Even if someone had descended into the depths of hell, they must be brought back.<br /> The final needle, also piercing a vital point, caused Quinn's body to tremble suddenly, resonating with the previous eighteen needles.<br /> Scott's eyes widened, his body trembling slightly. His reaction left Amanda and the others even more puzzled, but none dared to interrupt.<br /> Moments later, Wesley placed a palm on Quinn's chest, causing all eighteen needles to be shaken off. When all the needles landed on the ground, the part of the skin where the needles had pierced turned dark.<br /> Wesley then dragged Quinn to the edge of the mattress, flipped him over with his head facing downwards, and gave him a firm pat on the back.<br /> Quinn spat out a mouthful of black liquid. When Wesley flipped him back to lie flat, his complexion had regained some color.<br /> "The Hand of Darkness... It's the Hand of Darkness!" Scott exclaimed with excitement, his body quivering, "It's the Hand that descends into the dark world, snatching people from the hands of the Evil!"<br /> "You do have some knowledge, recognizing the Hand of Darkness." Wesley glanced at Scott.<br /> Scott's gaze towards Wesley had undergone a drastic change. He respectfully clasped his hands together.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thirty years ago, I had the honor of attending a teaching conference held by Mr. Vanderbilt. I saw the Hand of Darkness, but my limited aptitude only allowed me to grasp the basics."<br /> "I have been blind and ignorant. I apologize for my earlier offenses. Please forgive me, Mr. Harrington."<br /> The Mr. Vanderbilt Scott referred to was Wesley's teacher, Ulysses Vanderbilt. He generously imparted his skills to others, but the ability to learn depended on one's innate talent.<br /> In this world, few could learn Ulysses' skills.<br /> Scott had been fortunate to receive guidance from Ulysses, which had elevated his medical skills. However, the Hand of Darkness, a miraculous ability, was beyond his comprehension.<br /> Wesley smiled faintly, "Your actions earlier are understandable. I appreciate your words."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you must be an exceptional disciple of Mr. Vanderbilt, possessing unparalleled magnanimity. Impressive," Scott continued.<br /> "Enough with the flattery at your age."<br /> "You are mistaken, Mr. Harrington. Every word I speak is sincere."<br /> Mia, Amanda, and the others stood bewildered by the unfolding situation.<br /> "Mr. Phillips... he... he..." Amanda's words faltered.<br /> Scott turned to the members of the Kingsley family. "Meeting Mr. Harrington was Quinn's luck. His symptoms have been cured by Mr. Harrington. With a few days of rest, he will be fine."<br /> The waste Taylor had previously said was called Mr. Harrington by Scott!<br /> Recalling their previous attitudes, Amanda hurriedly apologized, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> The members of the Kingsley family all apologized in unison, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> Chapter 7 Eight Plates of Noodles<br /> With a faint smile, Wesley remarked, "As family members of a patient, your actions earlier are understandable. There's no need for such formality."<br /> Amanda's perplexity deepened as she thought, "Where is the cowardly waste that Taylor described? This display of magnanimity and breadth is far from it."<br /> Mia, too, felt a shiver of realization, thinking, "No wonder Dad has insisted on my proximity to Wesley.<br /> This guy..."<br /> She gazed at Wesley, her curiosity piqued, a sense of exploration stirring within her.<br /> "Mia has brought you here, Mr. Harrington, to cure my grandfather. The Kingsley family will never forget this act. However, considering that my grandfather's ailment stemmed from the health supplements produced by the Vinver Business Alliance, we will be conducting an investigation into it."<br /> Amanda continued, looking at Wesley, "What do you think... of this approach?"<br /> It was Mia who had invited Wesley, so Amanda had grown wiser, refraining from asking for a direct punishment of the Vinver Business Alliance.<br /> As Mia heard Amanda's words, her heart skipped a beat, realizing trouble was brewing.<br /> "On the way here, Ms. Roberts briefed me on the situation. You conducted experiments on mice, correct?"<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes, the health supplements we received were exclusively provided by the Roberts family. There were no similar cases on the market, so we used mice for testing.<br /> "All the mice that ingested this supplement were gone."<br /> She looked at Mia and added, her voice turned colder. "Before the experiment, I specifically contacted Mia to inquire about the testing methods during the development phase, which involved mice."<br /> "There have been individuals eyeing my grandfather's position, some even wishing for his demise. I never imagined that the Vinver Business Alliance, which I attracted for investment, would become a weapon in someone else's hands."<br /> "Do you have any of the remaining medicine?" Wesley inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes."<br /> "Bring some over."<br /> Immediately, someone fetched the medicine. After it was brought to him, Wesley took out a supplement and swallowed it directly.<br /> This scene left Amanda and the others dumbfounded.<br /> Scott, too, was bewildered. "Mr. Harrington, what are you doing?"<br /> Wesley smiled, "Just proving that this medicine is not toxic."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thank you," Mia thanked sincerely, feeling like sobbing at that moment.<br /> Amanda, with a puzzled expression, looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, are you suggesting that my grandfather's condition wasn't caused by the Vinver Business Alliance's medicine? What about the mice?"<br /> The rest were equally puzzled.<br /> "Yes, but not entirely," Wesley said, leaving everyone even more bewildered.<br /> Mia's emotions were like a rollercoaster ride, from relief to immediate tension.<br /> "This medicine itself is not toxic, but when taken with another substance made from a certain plant, it results in Quinn's condition. The mice would die immediately, while humans could endure a few more days."<br /> Wesley continued to explain, "The plant used in this concoction is originally meant for crafting slow-acting toxins, not for human consumption."<br /> Looking at Amanda, Wesley said, "During this period, whoever had access to your grandfather and the mice will better understand why these events occurred."<br /> The gaze of members of the Kingsley family immediately focused on a lady.<br /> Amanda, somewhat incredulous, looked at her. "Can you offer an explanation?"<br /> The lady was the wife of Amanda's deceased brother. She found it hard to accept, as did the rest of the Kingsley family.<br /> This lady had been named the exemplary lady who served her family well this year, not due to her connection with the Kingsley family but because she genuinely deserved it.<br /> "What do you mean? Amanda, what explanation do you want from me?"<br /> The lady stared at Amanda. "Am I the only one who had access to Grandfather and the mice? You, and you... and you, who didn't have access?"<br /> "You all claim to treat me as family. Since I married into the Kingsley family, I have worked diligently, contributing my share even if not acknowledged."<br /> "Amanda, it has been over a year since your brother passed, and I never once considered remarrying. Now, just because of his words, you demand an explanation from me?"<br /> Pointing at Wesley, the lady questioned, "Just because he accuses me of poisoning, you suspect me? Tell me, did I poison him?" The lady glared at Wesley.<br /> "I am merely analyzing the facts. As for concluding this case, it's not within my purview," Wesley addressed the members of the Kingsley family, saying, "You should conduct a thorough investigation into this matter.<br /> "I will write a prescription. Have Quinn take it on time, and he will recover in seven days."<br /> Amanda hurried to fetch paper and pen while Wesley prepared the prescription. Once done, he was ready to leave.<br /> Amanda said hurriedly, "Mr. Harrington, I've already made arrangements for lunch."<br /> "No need," Wesley smiled.<br /> The Kingsley family sought to build closer ties with Wesley, given his extraordinary medical skills. Wesley was well aware of this.<br /> Looking at Amanda and the others, Wesley remarked, "In the future, if you encounter any difficult medical cases that others cannot solve, seek me out. Remember, cases others cannot solve."<br /> The gaze of the Kingsley family members toward Wesley changed once again. Many renowned healers had eccentric personalities and were difficult to engage.<br /> They hadn't expected Wesley to possess such remarkable medical skills without any airs.<br /> As Wesley prepared to depart, the members of the Kingsley family did not dare to insist on his stay, so they accompanied him outside.<br /> "Oh, how could we forget such an important matter? Amanda, what about the consultation fee?" The middle-aged gent inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the oversight. Please wait a moment." Amanda hurried back inside and soon returned with a bank card in hand.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, there's one million dollars in here."<br /> Without hesitation, Wesley accepted the bank card and boarded Mia's car.<br /> During the journey, Mia boldly looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, you've helped me immensely. Can I treat you to a meal? Don't decline in a hurry. It's not a fancy restaurant, but it will leave you wanting more. It's a small place on the street, with only eight plates of noodles served each day, each plate containing different ingredients."<br /> "I managed to secure a reservation. Are you interested?"<br /> Wesley thought, "Eight Plates of Noodles?<br /> "Ah, Aaron's restaurant. It has been a while since I visited those old friends."<br /> Wesley nodded. "Let's go then."<br /> The restaurant, Eight Plates of Noodles, was located on Chanxold Street near the Yeadeo First Central Hospital.<br /> The establishment was small, serving only eight plates of noodles each day at a price of 10 thousand dollars each. Vernoic's television culinary program had specifically covered this incident.<br /> Reservations were a must to secure a plate.<br /> The restaurant's owner had a mysterious background. While the specifics were unknown, a high-ranking noble from the capital of Vernoic, Kingsland, had caused a scene there once.<br /> He had attempted to force his way in without a reservation. Although this incident hadn't been reported, rumors suggested that a garbage truck had to be called to dispose of the intruder's remains, as he was too shattered to be removed by conventional means.<br /> Since then, no one dared to cause trouble.<br /> On their way, Mia introduced Wesley to the background story.<br /> "Mr. Turner, two plates of noodles." Mia called out once they arrived.<br /> Aaron Turner didn't respond but visibly paused upon seeing Wesley beside Mia.<br /> A faint smile appeared on his usually stoic face. Though the flesh on the face seemed stiff, it was indeed a smile. "Coming right up."<br /> Chapter 8 You Are Blushing<br /> Mia glanced at Aaron with a hint of surprise, thinking, "When does he become so warm and enthusiastic?<br /> His tone seemed a bit agitated earlier, didn't it?"<br /> Soon enough, Aaron brought two plates of noodles to the table. One steaming hot and the other devoid of any warmth.<br /> As Mia observed Aaron placing the plate without steam in front of Wesley, her expression changed slightly.<br /> It was a plate of instant noodles having soaked in cold water, with the seasoning barely dissolved.<br /> She felt a sense of panic. Mia had wanted to leave a good impression on Wesley, which was why she had chosen this place.<br /> However, Aaron had served such a plate of noodles.<br /> She dared not question Aaron. The type of noodles served here was not determined by the guests but by Aaron's mood.<br /> "This lass named Mia is quite something, living up to her name, and quite kind-hearted," Aaron remarked, looking at Wesley.<br /> "Get lost," Wesley retorted, using his fork to pick up the noodles and devouring them.<br /> Mia's face turned pale instantly. Disrespecting Aaron was akin to risking Wesley's life.<br /> To her astonishment, Aaron chuckled, tears welling up in his eyes.<br /> He wiped them away. "Alright, I'll leave you to your meal."<br /> Before departing, he gave Mia a thumbs-up. "Seize the opportunity."<br /> The eight plates of noodles symbolized the eight comrades who had faced life and hardships together.<br /> Wesley ate voraciously. Initially, they had only one pack of instant noodles to share among the eight of them, forcing them to divide it.<br /> Despite the circumstances, they devoured the noodles joyfully.<br /> Aaron had promised that once they survived, each one would have the most delicious plate of noodles.<br /> However, five of the eight had perished.<br /> Wesley had come dangerously close to life-threatening situations, but managed to cling to life.<br /> For him, the plate of noodles was not food but the bond of friendship that had shielded him from harm.<br /> "Do you... know each other?" Mia couldn't help but ask, her voice low and curious.<br /> "Some things are better left unknown," Wesley replied.<br /> Mia nodded in understanding, falling silent as they continued eating noodles. She couldn't help stealing glances at Wesley throughout the meal.<br /> This gent had piqued her curiosity even more.<br /> "Wesley, I see. No wonder you agreed to the divorce so readily. You've already found someone else outside."<br /> A sharp voice interrupted their meal.<br /> Taylor approached with a cold expression, accompanied by Henry.<br /> Taylor's mother was in the nearby hospital, and she had just picked up Frank, planning to buy some food when she unexpectedly saw Wesley.<br /> Of course, she saw Mia, too.<br /> Seeing Wesley dining with a lady more attractive than herself, so soon after the divorce felt like a dagger twisting in Taylor's heart.<br /> Her anger was uncontrollable.<br /> Wesley merely glanced at Taylor, disinterested in engaging with her.<br /> Taylor was stung by his indifferent gaze. She stepped forward, glaring at Wesley. "Are you not going to explain to me?"<br /> Mia looked at Taylor, silently cursing her as a foolish lady.<br /> Wesley continued eating his noodles, lowering his head. "Get lost. Don't disturb me, or I won't hesitate to hit you."<br /> "What did you say?" Henry stepped forward, enraged. "Wesley, try laying a hand on her! Is that all you're capable of? Laying hands on ladies?"<br /> "No wonder Taylor looks down on you. You're truly disgusting trash. Apologize to Taylor now, or else you'll regret coming into this world."<br /> "And how will he regret it? Tell me." Aaron emerged, carrying a cleaver, smiling as he faced Henry and Taylor.<br /> "Mr. Turner, we dare not cause trouble in your place, but this guy is just..."<br /> Henry attempted to speak but was cut off as Aaron's cleaver struck his face, sending him sprawling to the ground.<br /> "Mr. Turner, sorry, we'll leave now." Taylor hastily helped Henry up and hurriedly left.<br /> These two individuals were fortunate to know the legendary story behind Eight Plates of Noodles and had successfully made reservations to dine here multiple times.<br /> Having distanced themselves a bit, Henry covered his face and pointed at Wesley. "Wesley, we have some unfinished business. If you're smart, come over here now and apologize."<br /> "Wesley, I've seen through you as well. I never expected that for the past five years, you've been using my money to keep a lady on the side. We'll settle the score slowly."<br /> As the two noticed Aaron glancing their way, they quickly shut their mouths and hurriedly left.<br /> Once they were out of eyeshots, Aaron fixed his gaze on Wesley. "Your dad doesn't know about your divorce yet, does he?"<br /> "What difference would it make if he did?" Wesley stretched lazily. "I've fulfilled my promise. I've given enough."<br /> Aaron nodded in acknowledgment without saying anything further.<br /> This piqued Mia's curiosity even more. "Is it like what the novels depict? Did you marry Taylor due to some special event?"<br /> Seeing Wesley's glare, Mia lowered her head to focus on her noodles. "I won't ask anymore."<br /> "For the past five years, you've been staying in the stairwell. It has been hard for you, but at least you're still untouched," Aaron remarked before swiftly departing.<br /> Mia stared at Wesley in disbelief, realizing that Aaron's words were meant for her ears.<br /> "What are you staring at? Eat your noodles," Wesley said. Mia chuckled.<br /> "Why are you laughing?"<br /> "You're blushing."<br /> "Nonsense," Wesley retorted.<br /> Unable to contain herself, Mia burst into laughter. She had tried to hold it in, but seeing Wesley's flushed face made it impossible.<br /> Ten minutes later, Mia left on her own accord, sensing that Wesley had something to discuss with Aaron.<br /> Inside Aaron's small shop, Wesley opened a bottle of wine. "Still single?"<br /> "I look too old, no one's interested," Aaron replied, opening a bottle of liquor as well.<br /> "Then why are you meddling in my love lives?"<br /> "Leave a child behind, even if you pass away, someone will remember you." Aaron took a sip. "I've actually investigated this Mia."<br /> "You investigated her?"<br /> "I knew you'd get a divorce. I've been keeping an eye on the pretty ones. This girl had done a lot of good deeds before coming to Yeadeo. Once, she saved three people in a flood and nearly lost her life. Opportunities are rare. You have to seize them."<br /> "When you've figured things out and are ready to marry, then we can discuss our affairs. That's the condition." Wesley downed the entire bottle of liquor.<br /> "Otherwise, don't bother meddling. We're on a one-way path and can't drag others along."<br /> "You..." Aaron sighed as he watched Wesley's retreating figure.<br /> On the road leading to the Feidgeuo Manor, Taylor stood gazing blankly at the entrance not far away.<br /> Twice in one day, she had come here.<br /> The first time was to pick up Frank, and this time was because Frank had lost his expensive watch. She and Henry hadn't even had a meal, rushing over to find it.<br /> The first time, she had come in a hurry when Frank was injured and left quickly as well.<br /> But this time, as Taylor looked at the entrance ahead, an infinite longing sprouted within her.<br /> "If only... I could live here, how wonderful that would be."<br /> Henry looked at her. "One day, I'll definitely build an estate more magnificent than this, and you'll be the lady of the house."<br /> As they conversed, a taxi drove by, stopping at the entrance. The person who got out of the taxi left Taylor stunned.<br /> She rubbed her eyes. | Adoread | 478 | https://facebook.com/61556400142540 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713510000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846716 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446607 | 1735168082 | 890 | 2777999112350081 | 1 | 1.1373357873098E+15 | 1716966000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100365976129594 | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | 120208137220370601 | itunes.apple.com | Play game | NONE | video | GATHER HEROES | http://itunes.apple.com/app/id6446389130 | 1713346071 | 1.0036597612959E+14 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438197204_954882799199039_4212265260855659624_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_ECkFND_ZQMQ7kNvgH8dbLd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCPAicdRzga4MJ0QGltQ-TEPODeXQ5hDqEqKq2LwzWLTQ&oe=6663EFAC | person_profile | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438197348_725584102824336_6325060654977137111_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=AN_tongCktAQ7kNvgE1Jd6e&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBKYOK48G6fBVu3-NaCfZGRb3gCU4WHtyNvFWr5eTP7PQ&oe=6663EE61 | 0 | 3 | Write your own legend. 🤩<br /> Experience an immersive RPG story.🏹 | Puzzles & Chaos | 13312 | https://facebook.com/PuzzlesAndChaos | 0 | PLAY_GAME | 1713337200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846717 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446608 | 1735168082 | 890 | 1126504091795695 | 1 | 9.7242489089097E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100365976129594 | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | 120209368276210763 | play.google.com | Play game | NONE | video | Always ready for battle! | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.global.pnck | 1713340642 | 1.0036597612959E+14 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436151303_2170017620027903_1978176637439574421_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xYy-eBdGN4MQ7kNvgEx6RQ0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDACb0oLlwxxfmqOtGOGw8vGtgsIj87g3A3jvu23KzySw&oe=6663FC9D | person_profile | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436589155_1091299852173503_72650592772147559_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2xsJqtVL-D8Q7kNvgHTlje3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAqWN-kfbBWv7BrHdyAZ9DQJLqbKOcvJQM1u6B-xn8x8w&oe=66640AA0 | 0 | 3 | Explore, Expand, Exploit, Exterminate | Puzzles & Chaos | 13312 | https://facebook.com/PuzzlesAndChaos | 0 | PLAY_GAME | 1713337200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846718 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446608 | 1735168082 | 890 | 750956857027717 | 1 | 1.3307439483177E+15 | 1713337200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 235254296344339 | 0 | Adoread Romance story | 120207848367490113 | play.google.com | Install now | NONE | video | HOT BOOK✨Tap the button to read more👉 | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.adoread.book | 1713261165 | 2.3525429634434E+14 | Adoread Romance story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436467552_1117062669506994_8319354685671361670_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5Ec2H50dqLkQ7kNvgE5IFaJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBE5jHiY0iydFFeApHUh9CxMBrEF0KV0QVLkdX_QLbyRw&oe=6663FC19 | person_profile | 0 | Adoread Romance story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436266438_379010651786476_4078060730282671490_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=D5cGoHD1T8cQ7kNvgFOlesw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDICOfsk7ZapYhliXZvkFuthFuNe6VgS2m3IwYyXtn6Eg&oe=6663EF68 | 0 | 3 | Chapter 1 <br /> "Wesley, are you trying to harm me? You useless piece of trash, can't even make a decent cup of coffee, can you?"<br /> Madison Blair lifted her coffee cup and splashed it directly onto Wesley Harrington's face.<br /> "What are you looking at, you spineless waste? Your name sounds so lofty? I might as well call you a waste."<br /> Glancing at the grotesque expression of his wife's mother, Wesley pulled out his phone to check the time.<br /> Exactly twelve o'clock. It had been five full years since he married Taylor Reed.<br /> The appointed time had come.<br /> He had fulfilled his promise, safeguarding the Reed family for five years, transforming them from a family living off fishing to one perceived as affluent by the common folk.<br /> Wiping the coffee off his face, he turned and walked away.<br /> "Where do you think you're going? Go fetch some more coffee," Madison shouted.<br /> "Madison, didn't you say this waste is obedient at home, doing whatever he's told? I don't think he's taking it lying down."<br /> Madison grew angrier. "Wesley, you stop right there. My family has fed and housed you. If you dare disobey, I'll have you thrown out!"<br /> Ignoring her, Wesley continued downstairs.<br /> "When Taylor comes back, I'll immediately have you two divorced. Do you hear me? Stay right there," Madison threatened, "I'll let you know your place today."<br /> Grabbing a golf club, Madison swiftly charged towards Wesley.<br /> Seeing Wesley heading downstairs, she swung the club viciously at his back.<br /> Without turning back, Wesley gently sidestepped.<br /> Losing her balance, Madison tumbled forward, rolling down the stairs with a series of thumps.<br /> "Ouch... it hurts, it hurts so much!"<br /> As Madison reached the ground floor, she wailed in pain and her sister immediately rushed to her.<br /> "Wesley, what have you done? How dare you hit my sister!" Madison's sister hurried down, checking on Madison's condition.<br /> Wesley remained silent, observing the scene.<br /> "Quick, call Taylor. Tell her to come back. Today, she must divorce this waste." Madison glared at Wesley. "How dare you hit me? Not only will I let Taylor divorce you, but I'll make sure you leave in disgrace."<br /> "Mum, what's wrong?" At that moment, a gent and a lady walked in.<br /> The lady was Taylor, Madison's daughter.<br /> She ran towards Madison.<br /> As Madison pointed at Wesley, tears streamed down her face. "Taylor, he hit me, he hit me! When you're not home, he changes his attitude, scolding and hitting me in the slightest displeasure. He even pushed me down the stairs just now. Alexis can testify."<br /> Madison's sister, Alexis Blair, chimed in. "Yes, Wesley, this trash not only hit your mother but also threatened to hit me too. We cannot tolerate such trash."<br /> "Taylor, I have been telling you to divorce him for years. You've been supporting him, treating him like a Lord at home, but he's an ungrateful wolf in sheep's clothing."<br /> Helping Madison up, Taylor noticed the scrapes on Madison's arms and legs, her expression turning cold.<br /> "Wesley, why did you hit my mother? You better give me an explanation."<br /> Wesley looked at Taylor, his wife.<br /> Five years had passed, and she had never shown him kindness.<br /> Taylor dressed impeccably, a paragon of a successful lady, with a face that could be deemed angelic, yet whether her heart was as angelic remained a mystery.<br /> Her figure, too, left countless men yearning.<br /> For five years, Wesley had thought he might develop feelings for this lady, but in reality, it never happened.<br /> "There are surveillance cameras in the house," Wesley stated calmly before descending the stairs into the hallway.<br /> Despite residing in a three-story villa, Wesley's living quarters were confined to the stairwell.<br /> He harbored no resentment towards this arrangement. It was merely a promise. It was just that Taylor failed to appreciate him.<br /> This home held little value that he wished to cling onto.<br /> Retrieving a wooden box from beneath his pillow, Wesley extracted two documents. Casting a fleeting glance at the modest abode he had called home for five years, Wesley smiled faintly.<br /> He thought, "Finally... I'm free."<br /> Pushing the door ajar, Wesley was met by Taylor's piercing gaze. "I've reviewed the surveillance footage. Yes, my mother intended to strike you, but even if she did, what difference would it make?"<br /> "She's a lady. How much could her blows hurt you? Why did you dodge?"<br /> "If you hadn't dodged, my mother wouldn't have tumbled down." Wesley stared at Taylor, unable to comprehend her thought process.<br /> He had no interest in engaging in these arguments. Handing over the two documents to Taylor, he remarked, "The divorce agreement. I've already signed it. Take a look. I'm leaving with nothing."<br /> "With your current influence, there's no need for you to visit the city hall. Someone will handle it for you, right?"<br /> Madison was taken aback. She swiftly snatched the divorce agreement, flipping through it hastily.<br /> The contents were indeed straightforward. Both parties willingly divorced, with Wesley relinquishing all claims and having already signed.<br /> In an instant, Madison's pain seemed to dissipate. "Taylor, sign it quickly. Sign it."<br /> Taylor was still in a daze.<br /> She pondered.<br /> "A divorce agreement? Wesley has already prepared a divorce agreement. On what grounds?"<br /> "What gives him the right to initiate a divorce? All these years, he's done nothing at home, lacking any ambition. Always practicing martial arts, what right does he have to seek a divorce?"<br /> "If anyone should initiate it, it should be me. Moreover, now that I'm back to discussing this matter with him. Could it be that word got out, and Wesley, for the sake of his pride, rushed to prepare a divorce agreement first?"<br /> "It must be so, but... No!"<br /> "Wanting to leave with nothing, is he retreating to advance? As the chairman of the Reed Group, how could I be served with a divorce?"<br /> "Hey Wesley, I never expected this from you. Have I not treated you well enough? You seek a divorce, attempting to turn your retreat into advance, aiming to embarrass me?"<br /> Taylor glared at Wesley. "I'm telling you, it's impossible."<br /> Snatching the divorce agreement, she tore it to shreds.<br /> "Taylor, what are you doing? Such a great opportunity. Why not just sign it and let him leave?" Madison grew anxious.<br /> "Mom, I do intend to divorce this trash, but the decision must come from me. I returned specifically to address this matter."<br /> With that, Taylor produced two documents. "Wesley, remember that it's me who's divorcing you. It's me who no longer wants you. Initially, out of marital obligation, I had considered offering you some compensation. Now, you don't even need to think about it. Sign the divorce agreement and leave my home."<br /> Wesley offered a faint smile as he accepted the divorce agreement.<br /> "What are you laughing at?" Taylor demanded angrily.<br /> Wesley's smile seemed to mock her, fueling her rage.<br /> Ignoring her entirely, Wesley signed the document and handed it over.<br /> "What are you laughing at? Answer me! Who do you think you are?" Taylor roared once more.<br /> Wesley glanced at her before striding towards the exit.<br /> "Stop!" The gent who had accompanied Taylor stepped forward, blocking Wesley's path. "Taylor asked you a question, and... Your previous attitude displeased me. Apologize to Taylor, or I'll have you leave in disgrace!"<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 <br /> "Yes, let him leave in disgrace. He thought he could just hit me and walk away so easily," Madison joined in the commotion, also noticing the gent blocking Wesley's path.<br /> Madison had a keen interest in luxury goods, having frequented various high-end establishments over the years as the Reed family's living conditions improved. The gent was wearing an expensive watch and dressed head to toe in high-end luxury brands.<br /> Seeing Madison's gaze, the gent spoke. "Rest assured, today Wesley must pay the price."<br /> The gent introduced himself, looking at Wesley, "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Henry Clark, the eldest son of the Clark family and the general manager of the Clark Group in the North District."<br /> "From now on, I will accompany Taylor on her journey of life, and I will not allow anyone to bully her."<br /> "My identity carries weight. You should understand that. Now, apologize to Taylor. Apologize! Did you hear me? Apologize!"<br /> Madison's eyes lit up. She hadn't expected the gent before her to hold such a high status. She continued to shout, "Did you hear that? Taylor will be with Mr. Clark from now on. Apologize now."<br /> Wesley glanced at Henry, then at Taylor. He thought, "Have they been together all along?" Wesley had wanted to ask but decided against it because there was no need. He simply gave them a glance and continued walking towards the exit.<br /> "Are you ignoring me?" Henry's face turned cold as he reached out to grab Wesley. Henry's hand froze mid-air as he received a solid hit.<br /> "Until I sign the divorce papers, Taylor and I are still wife and husband. I don't care to investigate whether you two had any intimate relationship during that time, but don't provoke me, or I won't hesitate to make you regret it." Wesley's gaze was icy, and as Henry met his eyes, he felt a twinge of fear and swallowed his words.<br /> Taylor was also stunned. She knew exactly what Wesley had been like over the past five years. There were many surveillance cameras in the house, and she would often check them.<br /> Even when Taylor wasn't home, despite how her family treated Wesley, he always obeyed without complaint, especially towards her. He had never raised his voice, no matter how they treated him.<br /> Today, not only did Wesley dodge when her mother struck, but he also initiated the divorce and now even struck Henry. <br /> Taylor was at a loss for words, thinking, "How could this cowardly gent dare? On what grounds does he dare?"<br /> This change was difficult for Taylor to accept as if she didn't truly understand this guy. The gent who used to be obedient to her, completely submissive, now revealed this side of himself. She watched Wesley walk away in a daze, feeling a strange discomfort in her heart.<br /> "Isn't he leaving with nothing?" Alexis pointed at the wooden box Wesley was holding. "What is he taking with him?"<br /> Madison also realized. Over the past five years, Wesley had always treasured this wooden box, carrying it with him wherever he went. She thought there must be something valuable inside.<br /> Realizing this, Madison hurriedly followed. "Wesley, stop right there, leave the wooden box."<br /> Wesley paused, glanced at Madison, and said, "This is my personal belonging."<br /> "Nonsense, what personal belonging could you possibly have after marrying into the Reed family? Everything you've eaten, worn, and lived in over the years has been provided by the Reed family. Put it down."<br /> As she spoke, Madison reached out to grab the wooden box.<br /> "Ah..." A scream rang out as Madison quickly retracted her hand, a gash appearing on her palm, a crimson liquid dripping.<br /> The wooden box was now stained with the same crimson liquid, trembling lightly in Wesley's hand.<br /> "It's not the right time yet, the day you thirst for this crimson liquid will come," Wesley murmured softly, patting the box before turning to continue his stride towards the exit.<br /> "Monster! A monster!" Madison screamed, causing Taylor and the others to rush out. Seeing the wound in Madison's hand, Taylor was filled with rage.<br /> "Wesley, aren't you going to say something?" Wesley halted once more, contemplating before meeting Taylor's gaze.<br /> "Just stay out of my way from now on. Consider this a warning to you."<br /> "Taylor, that wooden box of his has a mechanism. It must hold something valuable! We can't let him take it with him," Madison, enduring the pain, reminded them.<br /> "Mom, your injury is important. We'll deal with him later. Let me take you to the hospital first." Taylor comforted Madison before calling out to the retreating Wesley.<br /> "Our marriage is over! Yet, you dared to hurt my mother! This won't be the end of it! I will make you regret it!" Ignoring her, Wesley continued walking out.<br /> "Rest assured, I promise he won't see the light of day tomorrow." Henry stepped forward to console. "Let's focus on getting your wound treated first."<br /> "I want him to regret ever existing in this world, to apologize to me in repentance," Madison roared.<br /> "Mom, trust me, I will make him do just that." Taylor looked at Madison with a mix of pity and determination. "Let's go to the hospital first."<br /> In the villa area, Wesley halted, his voice cold. "Get out."<br /> An elderly gent leaped down from a tree, appearing to be in his seventies, yet landing silently from a height of around ten feet.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, your father wants you to come home and take charge."<br /> "He stopped being my father five years ago. He's my enemy."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you misunderstood your father. He had his reasons back then. I swear in my life, once you know the truth, you will forgive him."<br /> "Huh!" Wesley smirked coldly, saying, "I nearly passed away back then. Is that also a misunderstanding?"<br /> The old gent pleaded, "Mr. Harrington, this situation is truly not as you perceive it."<br /> Wesley didn't engage further with the old guy. The events of that year were etched in his memory forever. He was the one who had been abandoned. If not for that incident, why would he have stayed with the Reed family for five years?<br /> Watching Wesley walk away, the old gent had tears silently streaming down his face. "Mr. Harrington, I truly... I truly can't bring myself to speak the truth, but you have misunderstood your father. He also bears burdens and endures pains beyond what an ordinary person can handle."<br /> As Wesley's figure disappeared, the old gent stood up, hesitated for a moment, then dialed a number on his phone.<br /> "Mr. Harrington is now divorced. I've given you the news firsthand. If your daughter is truly together with Mr. Harrington, you must fulfill the promise and let her persuade Mr. Harrington to come home."<br /> After hanging up, a middle-aged gent in a luxurious estate jumped up excitedly. Calming himself, he immediately made another call. "My dear, you're at Yeadeo, right?<br /> "Go find Wesley now. Don't mention the engagement for now. Use every means to get close to him, make him fall in love with you."<br /> "Dad, I don't have time."<br /> "No matter what you are busy with, you must go find Wesley now. No matter what reason you approach him, you must leave a good impression the first time."<br /> "Dad, I'm in trouble right now. If I don't handle it well, I might be good as gone. I have to deal with it immediately. I'm hanging up."<br /> Chapter 3 <br /> The middle-aged gent's voice lowered significantly. "Is there a big incident happening? You didn't tell me? What happened?"<br /> "Quinn Kingsley from Yeadeo, Mr. Kingsley, used our product and now has one foot on the grave. If something really happens to him..."<br /> "You mean Quinn, the uncontested leader of Yeadeo?"<br /> "Yes."<br /> "In that case, you should go find Wesley. Trust me, in this world, there is no problem that Wesley can't solve. As long as he's willing to help, you'll be fine. Listen to me, go find Wesley immediately."<br /> The lady fell silent for a moment before saying, "Okay."<br /> At Yeadeo Harbor, a gent with a large flaxen chain and a watch, sporting a crew cut, hurriedly disembarked, accompanied by a dozen gentlemen.<br /> "Mr. Reed, wherever that trash is, we will find him and tear him apart."<br /> "Yes, that guy dared to harm your mother. We'll make sure he pays for it."<br /> Frank Reed's face turned cold. "Wesley, you coward, thinking you can overturn the world? How dare you touch my mom? Just wait until I find you, you're finished."<br /> "We've found him. Wesley got into a taxi, and our boys followed him."<br /> "Let's go!" Frank waved his hand, leading dozens of men who boarded the car with harpoons, steel pipes, and other weapons.<br /> Inside the taxi, Wesley gazed at the scenery outside, feeling a strange sense of tranquility.<br /> He thought to himself, "I never imagined that while I was secretly paving the way for the Reed family, Taylor, after progressing so rapidly, would start looking down on me more and more."<br /> "Those ladies who know my true identity, which one of them isn't trying to throw themselves at me? Ladies like that don't interest me."<br /> "Being an ordinary gent is truly difficult," Wesley murmured, smiling faintly and deciding not to dwell on these matters anymore. He had important things to attend to and no time to waste on personal affairs.<br /> "Young lad, are you going to Feidgeuo Manor for a job interview?" The driver, curious about Wesley's destination, inquired.<br /> Feidgeuo Manor was Yeadeo's most mysterious private area. Originally a villa area, it was bought at a huge cost five years ago and completely renovated. It was said to have cost a trillion dollars. The former villa area was now Feidgeuo Manor.<br /> "That's my home," Wesley replied nonchalantly.<br /> The driver was taken aback by this revelation, silently cursing Wesley for bragging. After a couple of minutes, the driver regained his composure. "It seems like you and I both prefer to keep a low profile. My car usually gathers dust at home, so I occasionally drive a taxi to experience life."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "My car has been driven by my assistant for the past few years, so it's not gathering dust."<br /> "Haha..." The driver laughed. "We should get together sometime and see whose car is more impressive."<br /> "Sure, whenever we have the time."<br /> As they chatted, the vehicle soon arrived near Feidgeuo Manor, where the massive head of the Feidgeuo Peak protruded, creating a unique landscape in Yeadeo.<br /> The driver asked with a smile, "Since you're the owner here, it's fine if I drive in, right?"<br /> "Of course," Wesley replied.<br /> As soon as Wesley spoke, several cars caught up from behind.<br /> The cars surrounded the one Wesley was in, with the front vehicles braking to force the car to a stop.<br /> When numerous people descended from cars wielding harpoons and steel pipes, the driver's face paled.<br /> Frank and his group got out of the cars, instantly closing in, and without hesitation, started attacking, the steel pipes and harpoons thudding against the car.<br /> Frank's henchman yanked open the door of Wesley's car, poised to stab Wesley with a harpoon, but Wesley swiftly exited the vehicle.<br /> With a firm step on the ground, he launched a swift hit.<br /> A muffled sound echoed as the henchman was hit away.<br /> "What are you looking at?" Frank noticed his henchmen were all staring at him. "All of you, attack together and take him down!"<br /> As he commanded, the henchmen Frank brought with him surged forward.<br /> The taxi driver, trembling, took out his phone to call the police, but Frank glared at him. "I am Frank Reed from Yeadeo Harbor. If you dare, go ahead and make that call."<br /> Frank, leveraging his sister Taylor's status, had been causing trouble in Yeadeo Harbor, and no one dared to provoke him.<br /> Upon hearing Frank's name, the driver hastily put away his phone. "Mr. Reed, I'll just check the time, you guys continue."<br /> "Huh!" Frank snorted coldly, casting his gaze towards the surrounded Wesley.<br /> The sounds of thuds continued to ring out incessantly. Because Wesley was completely surrounded, Frank was unable to see the situation inside clearly, but he could imagine it. After all, in Frank's mind, the henchmen under his command were not to be trifled with.<br /> "Hit him hard for me!"<br /> Another muffled sound and a figure flew out. At that moment, Frank finally saw the situation clearly, and his face turned pale.<br /> Frank knew that Wesley liked to practice martial arts, but he had never expected Wesley to be this skilled. It wasn't Wesley who had been beaten, but his own men by Wesley alone.<br /> Frantically, Frank turned and ran to retrieve a crossbow from the car.<br /> "Clear the way." Frank bellowed, aiming the crossbow at Wesley.<br /> "You scumbag, you think you can fight? Move one more time, and I'll end your life! Surrender!"<br /> Wesley, holding a wooden box, stared at Frank. Ignoring the crossbow in his hand, Wesley said, "Tell your henchmen to back off, or you'll all see the light from above!"<br /> "You're really good at pretending to be tough." Frank took two steps forward. "See the light? Move a muscle and see if I can end your life or not! If you don't have the guts, apologize now!"<br /> Wesley turned his head and looked at the approaching cars, with two expensive ones in the lead, two more in the rear, and another one in the middle.<br /> "Keep acting tough, and I'll put a hole in your head." Frank spoke while glancing at the five cars. "What, looking for help?"<br /> "Let me tell you, those who ride in these cars are not the kind of weaklings like you who rely on connections. With me here, in Yeadeo's social hierarchy, even those who ride in such cars wouldn't dare meddle in this matter. And let me make it clear, without my sister, you're nothing."<br /> <br /> Chapter 4<br /> As Frank's words faded, the five cars came to a halt.<br /> A bodyguard opened the door of the one in the middle, revealing a dazzling pair of shining shoes catching everyone's eye.<br /> The shining shoe encased a beautiful foot. Above, the skirt's hem was adorned with lace.<br /> Then, like a fairy stepping out of a painting, she appeared before everyone's eyes.<br /> The lady was beautiful!<br /> Frank was mesmerized. Ever since the Reed family rose to prominence, he had been surrounded by ladies, but compared to the elegant lady before him, they were worlds apart.<br /> It wasn't just a difference in appearance but an incomparable gap in demeanor.<br /> The lady descending from the Maybach seemed like a celestial being untouched by mortal affairs.<br /> The embodiment of a fairy in the mundane world.<br /> She simply stood there after getting out of the car, perfectly embodying what it meant to be graceful and elegant.<br /> The lady glanced at Wesley, then at Frank.<br /> Frank grinned, saying, "May I have the honor of knowing the name of this esteemed lady? I am Frank..."<br /> The lady spoke calmly. "Disrespect Mr. Harrington, and you're done for."<br /> Her bodyguards, unfazed by Frank's crossbow, swiftly overwhelmed him, sending him crashing to the ground.<br /> The henchmen who had come with Frank, previously defeated by Wesley, now scrambled to their feet and fled in all directions.<br /> Who would dare provoke someone who could afford such a car?<br /> "My sister is Taylor Reed, the chairperson of Reed Group," Frank shouted, clutching his head.<br /> Ignoring him, one of the bodyguards dragged him to the roadside grass while another used a belt to tighten around Frank's neck, exerting pressure.<br /> "Enough, a lesson is all that's needed." Wesley spoke calmly, and only when the lady gestured did the bodyguards release Frank.<br /> Frank lay there, already unconscious.<br /> Wesley turned to the lady. "Who are you?"<br /> "I am Mia Roberts, the general manager of Vinver Business Alliance's Yeadeo branch." She looked at Wesley and continued, "Mr. Harrington, my father mentioned that you have miraculous healing skills and earnestly requested your assistance. A generous reward awaits."<br /> Wesley furrowed his brow slightly, thinking, "There are indeed people who recognize my abilities and status, yet I've rarely intervened in the past five years. Today, shortly after I divorced Taylor, she is here. Whose arrangement is this?"<br /> "Mr. Harrington, my father also mentioned that you are benevolent and has raised the banner of compassion among healers, serving as a role model and benchmark for all in the medical field."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "You have a way with words. Tell me the specifics."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, please get in the car first. I will explain in detail on the way."<br /> The phrase "compassionate healer" held significant weight for Wesley, who had saved countless lives from the brink of death.<br /> Without further ado, he got into the car.<br /> Inside, after Mia brewed coffee for Wesley, she began. "Vinver Business Alliance has a wide range of business operations, and I mainly oversee the health supplement sector, which has seen some success in recent years.<br /> "Recently, Quinn Kingsley started using our medicines, and now there's an accident."<br /> As she spoke, Mia kept her gaze fixed on Wesley.<br /> Quinn, the undisputed leader of Yeadeo, was a figure of immense influence.<br /> Upon hearing this name, Wesley showed no particular reaction. "If the city's leader faces issues with your products, it is indeed a concern. Let's go and see."<br /> With just a sentence, Wesley leaned back in his seat, closing his eyes to rest.<br /> Mia was secretly alarmed, thinking, "He knows who Quinn is, yet he seems indifferent. Who is this Wesley, really? No wonder Dad has instructed me to find a way to win his favor." Mia's inner resistance toward Wesley quietly shifted.<br /> Wesley had piqued her curiosity.<br /> As the vehicle was moving, Wesley's phone rang.<br /> Wesley opened his eyes and took out his phone to see Taylor calling.<br /> Pressing the answer button, he asked, "What's the matter?"<br /> On the other end of the line, Taylor, driving towards Feidgeuo Manor, had a grim expression.<br /> She thought, "Has Wesley ever spoken to me in such a cold tone before? Is he really this heartless right after our divorce?"<br /> Already furious, she snapped. "Wesley, do you even consider yourself a human being?<br /> "Today, not only did you lay hands on my mother, but you also had someone attack my brother. Do you not remember our past at all?"<br /> Wesley calmly replied, "Do we have a past to remember?"<br /> "You truly are a heartless scumbag, just as my mother said. You are an ungrateful and vicious person I raised for five years. Even a pet would wag its tail at me!"<br /> Taylor wanted to continue her tirade, but the phone line had already turned busy.<br /> This only fueled her anger further.<br /> Just now, she had received a call from Frank's underlings, informing her that Wesley had sent people to attack Frank and even intended to end him.<br /> Taylor wanted to demand answers, but...<br /> As Taylor was clutching her fists, her gaze turned icy.<br /> After a moment, she picked up her phone again. "Wesley, you are so narrow-minded. You have no ambition. Any lady would steer clear of you."<br /> "Just because I dumped you, you are doing this on purpose to make me feel sick. Pretending to be aloof and seeking revenge? Do you even deserve it?"<br /> "In Yeadeo, squashing you would be as easy as squashing an ant. You're asking for it! If anything happens to my brother, I will make you wish you were ending!"<br /> Her furious voice message echoed in the car.<br /> Wesley chuckled and put away his phone.<br /> Beside him, Mia seemed contemplative. Before coming, she had already ordered a swift investigation into Wesley.<br /> She was curious, thinking, "How could someone valued by my father could be the one 'marrying into' the Reed family."<br /> Being tactful, Mia chose not to ask and pretended not to have heard.<br /> After about forty minutes, they arrived at the Kingsley Manor.<br /> The Kingsley family members, upon seeing Mia alight from the car, all wore grim expressions.<br /> Mia greeted them with a smile, "Everyone, this is Wesley Harrington, Mr. Harrington, the miraculous healer I specially invited to treat Mr. Kingsley."<br /> "Him? The gent who married into the Reed family?"<br /> "A miraculous healer? Is he even worthy? Are healers so worthless now?"<br /> "A useless gent who mooches off of the Reed family? How dare he call himself a miraculous healer? Truly a joke among all jokes."<br /> Chapter 5<br /> <br /> Amanda Kingsley, Quinn's granddaughter, stared coldly at Wesley and Mia.<br /> This lady, dressed in a smart suit, also held significant fame in Yeadeo, overseeing the region's business activities, including investment attraction and various local business negotiations.<br /> Amanda had a favorable view of Taylor, who had risen swiftly in recent times, and they had interacted frequently.<br /> She was aware of Wesley's existence and had advised Taylor to part ways with him early on.<br /> But Amanda never imagined that Mia would bring someone like Wesley, a complete waste, and claim he was a miraculous healer.<br /> Glaring at Mia, she said, "Mia, once my grandfather is well, it's best for your Roberts family to leave Yeadeo."<br /> "As for you..." She glanced at Wesley. "I will advise Taylor to divorce you. You have deceived Taylor's feelings and now shamelessly made your way into my family. You are a despicable creature."<br /> After reprimanding Mia and Wesley, she turned to an elderly gent beside her, and her tone and attitude completely changed. "Mr. Phillips, sorry to trouble you. My grandfather is inside, please."<br /> Mia looked at the elderly gent, who was already in his twilight years, feeling deeply shocked.<br /> Scott Phillips, the 38th generation heir of the Healing Clinic, was now ninety-two years old.<br /> Renowned as a miraculous healer, he was a respected figure in the medical community of Yeadeo and even nationally.<br /> He no longer conducted consultations personally due to his old age. Mia had visited him specifically to pay her respects once she had arrived in Yeadeo but had not met Scott.<br /> She never expected Scott to appear in person. It was understandable, as Quinn held a prominent position in the city. Despite the profound influence of the Phillips family, they still had to show respect to Quinn.<br /> Mia looked at Wesley, feeling conflicted and thinking, "Dad has confidently claimed that Wesley has extraordinary abilities, but does he really?"<br /> She harbored doubts, but out of propriety, Mia spoke. "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the trouble."<br /> Wesley smiled, "It's fine. As long as the person can be healed."<br /> His open-mindedness impressed Mia.<br /> After about half an hour, Amanda emerged from the room. All eyes instantly turned towards her.<br /> It was evident that Amanda had wailed out, with traces of tears still visible.<br /> "Amanda, how is it?" A middle-aged gent anxiously asked her.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family who had rushed back also focused their attention on her.<br /> "Mr. Phillips said that there's little hope of recovery. He could only use acupuncture to wake grandfather for half an hour. When grandfather wakes up, let's all go in and see if he has any final instructions."<br /> Everyone was shocked.<br /> "How could this be?"<br /> "Is Mr. Phillips also helpless?"<br /> The members of the Kingsley family found it hard to accept this reality, especially since Quinn had always treated his juniors well.<br /> The thought of Quinn departing saddened some, and tears silently fell.<br /> Publicly, Quinn's status was the foundation of the Kingsley family's prominence in Yeadeo.<br /> If Quinn were to pass away, the Kingsley family would undoubtedly decline.<br /> The atmosphere within the Kingsley family was somber.<br /> Amanda looked at her family members, opened her mouth, but said nothing, silently turning back into the room.<br /> "Stop crying," A middle-aged gent said sternly, "Dad wouldn't want to see you all in tears. If he's really leaving, we mustn't let him worry about us. Pull yourselves together."<br /> After these words, the middle-aged gent also entered the room.<br /> The younger members of the Kingsley family wiped their tears vigorously, trying to force smiles, but in truth, they looked better at crying than pretending to be happy.<br /> Mia's spirit plummeted as she realized the gravity of the situation. Even if an ordinary person passed away from consuming health supplements, it spelled big trouble for those who sold them. And when the deceased happened to be Quinn, the stakes were even higher.<br /> She understood that it would be difficult for this branch to stay in Yeadeo, and even the headquarters might face repercussions.<br /> "Let's go in and have a look." Wesley glanced at Mia. "There might still be a chance."<br /> "Ah..." Mia stared at Wesley in surprise. Seeing him already heading towards the room, she quickly followed suit.<br /> Inside the room, the members of the Kingsley family stood around the mattress, maintaining a certain distance.<br /> Scott lit the alcohol lamp and took out the needles, his expression solemn.<br /> He looked at the members of the Kingsley family. "Think about what you want to say to Mr. Kingsley later. Once you're ready, let me know, and then I'll proceed with the acupuncture."<br /> As he said this, tears welled up in many eyes.<br /> "If you don't mind, let me take a look. I have a way." Wesley spoke up, drawing everyone's attention.<br /> Amanda's face darkened. "Who let you in? Get out!"<br /> "Mia, have you lost your mind? Tricked by this trash and actually brought him here as a miracle healer. Get out with him! I'll settle the score with you in a couple of days."<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, at a loss for words.<br /> "Even Mr. Phillips is unable to reverse the situation. What use are you? Get out." Another younger member of the Kingsley family angrily rebuked.<br /> The middle-aged gent added, "We're in no mood right now. You better leave immediately."<br /> "I understand your narrow-mindedness," Wesley continued, "But as a healer, once I see a patient, I cannot stand by and watch him draw his last breath."<br /> "Wesley, you're quite the charlatan. Do you really want to be gone right now?" Amanda's voice was filled with anger.<br /> "Amanda, let me say a few words," Scott interjected, and Amanda fell silent.<br /> Looking at Wesley, Scott began. "Young lad, at my age, I've seen a lot and have a broad perspective. Today, however, I find it hard to remain indifferent. I practiced medicine from the age of sixteen until I stopped seeing patients for a total of seventy years."<br /> "I've saved countless patients from various illnesses. I never easily declare a patient's fate, nor do I believe I have the right to do so."<br /> "But from your recent remarks, it seems like you're accusing me of such actions. Young people wanting to make a name for themselves by stepping on the shoulders of their predecessors, I can understand."<br /> "But this kind of behavior displeases me."<br /> "My displeasure, what does it mean to you? Do you understand?"<br /> "Even if you are a healer, your career will be ruined because of this."<br /> Chapter 6 <br /> In the face of Scott's veiled threats, Wesley simply smiled and brushed them off.<br /> Looking at Scott, he asked, "I've always focused on the issue at hand rather than attacking individuals. I have a few questions for you. If you can't administer the needles, how long do you think Quinn can hold on?"<br /> "Seven days, but he will remain unconscious," Scott replied bluntly.<br /> "Then let me ask you this, is there anyone in the world with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "Outrageous," Amanda coldly interjected, "Mr. Phillips is unparalleled in his medical expertise."<br /> Scott glanced at Amanda. "Amanda, let me handle this question."<br /> Continuing to address Wesley, he said, "I don't underestimate myself, nor do I overestimate. There are countless talented individuals in the world, like stars in the sky. I may not dare claim to be the best in medical skills, but those who surpass me are few."<br /> "That means there are some," Wesley calmly remarked, causing Scott's expression to shift slightly, "Indeed, there are."<br /> "Then let me ask you this. Do you think within seven days, the Kingsley family won't find someone with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "If they do find someone, do you believe there is an illness that you cannot cure, but this person can?"<br /> Wesley's questions were sharp and resounding.<br /> Scott's face changed once more as he was rendered speechless.<br /> "Even if there is, that person will never be you." Amanda's face turned icy. "Now get out. Don't spout your eloquence here. Your deceitful behavior is repulsive."<br /> "Your understanding of me is merely hearsay, isn't it?" Wesley retorted, his gaze mocking Amanda, "Has your background and education taught you such arrogance and prejudice?"<br /> "Arrogance?" Amanda's face grew colder as she disdainfully looked at Wesley. "Prejudice?<br /> "Did I say something wrong just now? You are nothing but stagnant waste, a parasite living off others. If it weren't for Taylor, you would have starved on the streets long ago."<br /> "Relying on sweet words, deceiving Taylor. She, with her kind heart, can't bear to divorce you, but don't push your luck. If it weren't for Taylor's sake, you would have been sent out long ago."<br /> Scott interrupted Amanda, "Amanda, although I find this lad a bit annoying, what he said does hold some truth. There are indeed individuals with better medical skills than me. Your grandfather can hold on for seven days. Try reaching out to see if someone can come over. I'll help you make connections."<br /> "If it really doesn't work out after seven days, I'll administer the needles to your grandfather. However, at that point, I can only buy you three minutes."<br /> As soon as Scott spoke, the faces of the Kingsley family members grew even more solemn. True healers were rare and not easily summoned.<br /> While the Kingsley family had connections in Yeadeo, their influence waned outside of it.<br /> "Mr. Phillips, please administer the needles. Life has its ups and downs, and we understand that. Just buy my father a bit more time." The middle-aged gent spoke up.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family nodded in agreement.<br /> Amanda looked at Scott. "Mr. Phillips, please."<br /> "In that case, please have everyone unrelated leave. I need silence," Scott calmly stated.<br /> Amanda glared at Wesley, her eyes speaking volumes without a word.<br /> The unrelated individuals were, naturally, Wesley and Mia.<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, intending to leave, but she suddenly hesitated.<br /> Instead of leaving, Wesley moved forward.<br /> "What are you doing?" A young member of the Kingsley family stepped forward with a stern expression, pushing Wesley.<br /> In one swift motion, Wesley executed a clean shoulder throw, toppling the young gent to the ground, his own expression turning cold.<br /> "A bunch of fools! If it weren't for my teacher's teachings about not turning a blind eye to those in need, I wouldn't bother with you ignorant lot," Wesley remarked with disdain.<br /> As Wesley effortlessly took down one individual from the Kingsley family, the others seemed slow to react.<br /> By the time they realized what was happening, Wesley had already picked up the needle next to Scott and casually flicked his wrist.<br /> The needle flew out of his hand, piercing Quinn's temple, followed by a second needle, a third needle, and so on.<br /> "What are you doing? Stop!" Amanda's voice rose in urgency, echoed by the rest of the Kingsley family members who rushed forward to restrain Wesley.<br /> "Stay back, everyone. Wait." Scott suddenly stood up, blocking the others. "Let him try."<br /> Amanda and the others were left dumbfounded, thinking, "What does this mean?"<br /> Despite their confusion, they heeded Scott's words.<br /> After Scott stopped the members of the Kingsley family, he fixed his gaze on Wesley.<br /> Wesley proceeded to use eighteen needles in succession, symbolizing the levels of pain.<br /> Even if someone had descended into the depths of hell, they must be brought back.<br /> The final needle, also piercing a vital point, caused Quinn's body to tremble suddenly, resonating with the previous eighteen needles.<br /> Scott's eyes widened, his body trembling slightly. His reaction left Amanda and the others even more puzzled, but none dared to interrupt.<br /> Moments later, Wesley placed a palm on Quinn's chest, causing all eighteen needles to be shaken off. When all the needles landed on the ground, the part of the skin where the needles had pierced turned dark.<br /> Wesley then dragged Quinn to the edge of the mattress, flipped him over with his head facing downwards, and gave him a firm pat on the back.<br /> Quinn spat out a mouthful of black liquid. When Wesley flipped him back to lie flat, his complexion had regained some color.<br /> "The Hand of Darkness... It's the Hand of Darkness!" Scott exclaimed with excitement, his body quivering, "It's the Hand that descends into the dark world, snatching people from the hands of the Evil!"<br /> "You do have some knowledge, recognizing the Hand of Darkness." Wesley glanced at Scott.<br /> Scott's gaze towards Wesley had undergone a drastic change. He respectfully clasped his hands together.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thirty years ago, I had the honor of attending a teaching conference held by Mr. Vanderbilt. I saw the Hand of Darkness, but my limited aptitude only allowed me to grasp the basics."<br /> "I have been blind and ignorant. I apologize for my earlier offenses. Please forgive me, Mr. Harrington."<br /> The Mr. Vanderbilt Scott referred to was Wesley's teacher, Ulysses Vanderbilt. He generously imparted his skills to others, but the ability to learn depended on one's innate talent.<br /> In this world, few could learn Ulysses' skills.<br /> Scott had been fortunate to receive guidance from Ulysses, which had elevated his medical skills. However, the Hand of Darkness, a miraculous ability, was beyond his comprehension.<br /> Wesley smiled faintly, "Your actions earlier are understandable. I appreciate your words."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you must be an exceptional disciple of Mr. Vanderbilt, possessing unparalleled magnanimity. Impressive," Scott continued.<br /> "Enough with the flattery at your age."<br /> "You are mistaken, Mr. Harrington. Every word I speak is sincere."<br /> Mia, Amanda, and the others stood bewildered by the unfolding situation.<br /> "Mr. Phillips... he... he..." Amanda's words faltered.<br /> Scott turned to the members of the Kingsley family. "Meeting Mr. Harrington was Quinn's luck. His symptoms have been cured by Mr. Harrington. With a few days of rest, he will be fine."<br /> The waste Taylor had previously said was called Mr. Harrington by Scott!<br /> Recalling their previous attitudes, Amanda hurriedly apologized, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> The members of the Kingsley family all apologized in unison, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> Chapter 7 <br /> With a faint smile, Wesley remarked, "As family members of a patient, your actions earlier are understandable. There's no need for such formality."<br /> Amanda's perplexity deepened as she thought, "Where is the cowardly waste that Taylor described? This display of magnanimity and breadth is far from it."<br /> Mia, too, felt a shiver of realization, thinking, "No wonder Dad has insisted on my proximity to Wesley.<br /> This guy..."<br /> She gazed at Wesley, her curiosity piqued, a sense of exploration stirring within her.<br /> "Mia has brought you here, Mr. Harrington, to cure my grandfather. The Kingsley family will never forget this act. However, considering that my grandfather's ailment stemmed from the health supplements produced by the Vinver Business Alliance, we will be conducting an investigation into it."<br /> Amanda continued, looking at Wesley, "What do you think... of this approach?"<br /> It was Mia who had invited Wesley, so Amanda had grown wiser, refraining from asking for a direct punishment of the Vinver Business Alliance.<br /> As Mia heard Amanda's words, her heart skipped a beat, realizing trouble was brewing.<br /> "On the way here, Ms. Roberts briefed me on the situation. You conducted experiments on mice, correct?"<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes, the health supplements we received were exclusively provided by the Roberts family. There were no similar cases on the market, so we used mice for testing.<br /> "All the mice that ingested this supplement were gone."<br /> She looked at Mia and added, her voice turning colder, "Before the experiment, I specifically contacted Mia to inquire about the testing methods during the development phase, which involved mice.<br /> "There have been individuals eyeing my grandfather's position, some even wishing for his demise. I never imagined that the Vinver Business Alliance, which I attracted for investment, would become a weapon in someone else's hands."<br /> "Do you have any of the remaining medicine?" Wesley inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes."<br /> "Bring some over."<br /> Immediately, someone fetched the medicine. After it was brought to him, Wesley took out a supplement and swallowed it directly.<br /> This scene left Amanda and the others dumbfounded.<br /> Scott, too, was bewildered. "Mr. Harrington, what are you doing?"<br /> Wesley smiled, "Just proving that this medicine is not toxic."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thank you," Mia thanked sincerely, feeling like crying at that moment.<br /> Amanda, with a puzzled expression, looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, are you suggesting that my grandfather's condition wasn't caused by the Vinver Business Alliance's medicine? What about the mice?"<br /> The rest were equally puzzled.<br /> "Yes, but not entirely," Wesley said, leaving everyone even more bewildered.<br /> Mia's emotions were like a rollercoaster ride, from relief to immediate tension.<br /> "This medicine itself is not toxic, but when taken with another substance made from a certain plant, it results in Quinn's condition. The mice would die immediately, while humans could endure a few more days."<br /> Wesley continued to explain, "The plant used in this concoction is originally meant for crafting slow-acting toxins, not for human consumption."<br /> Looking at Amanda, Wesley said, "During this period, whoever had access to your grandfather and the mice will better understand why these events occurred."<br /> The gaze of members of the Kingsley family immediately focused on a lady.<br /> Amanda, somewhat incredulous, looked at her. "Can you offer an explanation?"<br /> The lady was the wife of Amanda's deceased brother. She found it hard to accept, as did the rest of the Kingsley family.<br /> This lady had been named the exemplary lady who served her family well this year, not due to her connection with the Kingsley family but because she genuinely deserved it.<br /> "What do you mean? Amanda, what explanation do you want from me?"<br /> The lady stared at Amanda. "Am I the only one who had access to Grandfather and the mice? You, and you... and you, who didn't have access?"<br /> "You all claim to treat me as family. Since I married into the Kingsley family, I have worked diligently, contributing my share even if not acknowledged."<br /> "Amanda, it has been over a year since your brother passed, and I never once considered remarrying. Now, just because of his words, you demand an explanation from me?"<br /> Pointing at Wesley, the lady questioned, "Just because he accuses me of poisoning, you suspect me? Tell me, did I poison him?" The lady glared at Wesley.<br /> "I am merely analyzing the facts. As for concluding this case, it's not within my purview," Wesley addressed the members of the Kingsley family, saying, "You should conduct a thorough investigation into this matter.<br /> "I will write a prescription. Have Quinn take it on time, and he will recover in seven days."<br /> Amanda hurried to fetch paper and pen while Wesley prepared the prescription. Once done, he was ready to leave.<br /> Amanda said hurriedly, "Mr. Harrington, I've already made arrangements for lunch."<br /> "No need," Wesley smiled.<br /> The Kingsley family sought to build closer ties with Wesley, given his extraordinary medical skills. Wesley was well aware of this.<br /> Looking at Amanda and the others, Wesley remarked, "In the future, if you encounter any difficult medical cases that others cannot solve, seek me out. Remember, cases others cannot solve."<br /> The gaze of the Kingsley family members toward Wesley changed once again. Many renowned healers had eccentric personalities and were difficult to engage.<br /> They hadn't expected Wesley to possess such remarkable medical skills without any airs.<br /> As Wesley prepared to depart, the members of the Kingsley family did not dare to insist on his stay, so they accompanied him outside.<br /> "Oh, how could we forget such an important matter? Amanda, what about the consultation fee?" The middle-aged gent inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the oversight. Please wait a moment." Amanda hurried back inside and soon returned with a bank card in hand.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, there's one million dollars in here."<br /> Without hesitation, Wesley accepted the bank card and boarded Mia's car.<br /> During the journey, Mia boldly looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, you've helped me immensely. Can I treat you to a meal? Don't decline in a hurry. It's not a fancy restaurant, but it will leave you wanting more. It's a small place on the street, with only eight plates of noodles served each day, each plate containing different ingredients.<br /> "I managed to secure a reservation. Are you interested?"<br /> Wesley thought, "Eight Plates of Noodles? Ah, Aaron's restaurant. It has been a while since I visited those old friends."<br /> Wesley nodded. "Let's go then."<br /> The restaurant, Eight Plates of Noodles, was located on Chanxold Street near the Yeadeo First Central Hospital.<br /> The establishment was small, serving only eight plates of noodles each day at a price of 10 thousand dollars each. Vernoic's television culinary program had specifically covered this incident.<br /> Reservations were a must to secure a plate.<br /> The restaurant's owner had a mysterious background. While the specifics were unknown, a high-ranking noble from the capital of Vernoic, Kingsland, had caused a scene there once.<br /> He had attempted to force his way in without a reservation. Although this incident hadn't been reported, rumors suggested that a garbage truck had to be called to dispose of the intruder's remains, as he was too shattered to be removed by conventional means.<br /> Since then, no one dared to cause trouble.<br /> On their way, Mia introduced Wesley to the background story.<br /> "Mr. Turner, two plates of noodles." Mia called out once they arrived.<br /> Aaron Turner didn't respond but visibly paused upon seeing Wesley beside Mia.<br /> A faint smile appeared on his usually stoic face. Though the flesh on the face seemed stiff, it was indeed a smile. "Coming right up."<br /> Mia glanced at Aaron with a hint of surprise, thinking, "When did he become so warm and enthusiastic? His tone seemed a bit agitated earlier, didn't it?"<br /> Soon enough, Aaron brought two plates of noodles to the table. One steaming hot and the other devoid of any warmth.<br /> As Mia observed Aaron placing the plate without steam in front of Wesley, her expression changed slightly.<br /> It was a plate of instant noodles having soaked in cold water, with the seasoning barely dissolved.<br /> She felt a sense of panic. Mia had wanted to leave a good impression on Wesley, which was why she had chosen this place.<br /> However, Aaron had served such a plate of noodles.<br /> She dared not question Aaron. The type of noodles served here was not determined by the guests but by Aaron's mood.<br /> "This girl named Mia is quite something, living up to her name, and quite kind-hearted," Aaron remarked, looking at Wesley.<br /> "Get lost," Wesley retorted, using his fork to pick up the noodles and devouring them.<br /> Mia's face turned pale instantly. Disrespecting Aaron was akin to risking Wesley's life.<br /> To her astonishment, Aaron chuckled, tears welling up in his eyes.<br /> He wiped them away. "Alright, I'll leave you to your meal."<br /> Before departing, he gave Mia a thumbs-up. "Seize the opportunity."<br /> The eight plates of noodles symbolized the eight comrades who had faced life and life-threatening situations together.<br /> Wesley ate voraciously. Initially, they had only one pack of instant noodles to share among the eight of them, forcing them to divide it.<br /> Despite the circumstances, they devoured the noodles joyfully.<br /> Aaron had promised that once they survived, each one would have the most delicious plate of noodles.<br /> However, five of the eight had perished.<br /> Wesley had come dangerously close to life-threatening situations, but managed to cling to life.<br /> For him, the plate of noodles was not food but the bond of friendship that had shielded him from harm.<br /> "Do you... know each other?" Mia couldn't help but ask, her voice low and curious.<br /> "Some things are better left unknown," Wesley replied.<br /> Mia nodded in understanding, falling silent as they continued eating noodles. She couldn't help stealing glances at Wesley throughout the meal.<br /> This gent had piqued her curiosity even more.<br /> "Wesley, I see. No wonder you agreed to the divorce so readily. You've already found someone else outside."<br /> A sharp voice interrupted their meal.<br /> Taylor approached with a cold expression, accompanied by Henry. | Adoread Romance story | 106 | https://facebook.com/61557113391558 | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1713250800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846719 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446608 | 1735168082 | 890 | 801923318510583 | 1 | 1.8672305603861E+15 | 1713337200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 235254296344339 | 0 | Adoread Romance story | 120207848367610113 | play.google.com | Install now | NONE | video | HOT BOOK✨Tap the button to read more👉 | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.adoread.book | 1713261169 | 2.3525429634434E+14 | Adoread Romance story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438079522_1004130541428099_4257055039593265883_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tIyHvthwoKUQ7kNvgGJMnP1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBBwP3LsDr3yzPLGW_sqwTOp4VCsg3AmVzaYHJEY_X2QQ&oe=6664054C | person_profile | 0 | Adoread Romance story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437510693_400454336104775_1724759792001156302_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gawMJ7tU5oIQ7kNvgGllwjP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAij8zWZqYw1bv5M8QDqJNd-hPYq4cnc5zdKsp-jo0kAw&oe=6663FC74 | 0 | 3 | Chapter 1 <br /> "Wesley, are you trying to harm me? You useless piece of trash, can't even make a decent cup of coffee, can you?"<br /> Madison Blair lifted her coffee cup and splashed it directly onto Wesley Harrington's face.<br /> "What are you looking at, you spineless waste? Your name sounds so lofty? I might as well call you a waste."<br /> Glancing at the grotesque expression of his wife's mother, Wesley pulled out his phone to check the time.<br /> Exactly twelve o'clock. It had been five full years since he married Taylor Reed.<br /> The appointed time had come.<br /> He had fulfilled his promise, safeguarding the Reed family for five years, transforming them from a family living off fishing to one perceived as affluent by the common folk.<br /> Wiping the coffee off his face, he turned and walked away.<br /> "Where do you think you're going? Go fetch some more coffee," Madison shouted.<br /> "Madison, didn't you say this waste is obedient at home, doing whatever he's told? I don't think he's taking it lying down."<br /> Madison grew angrier. "Wesley, you stop right there. My family has fed and housed you. If you dare disobey, I'll have you thrown out!"<br /> Ignoring her, Wesley continued downstairs.<br /> "When Taylor comes back, I'll immediately have you two divorced. Do you hear me? Stay right there," Madison threatened, "I'll let you know your place today."<br /> Grabbing a golf club, Madison swiftly charged towards Wesley.<br /> Seeing Wesley heading downstairs, she swung the club viciously at his back.<br /> Without turning back, Wesley gently sidestepped.<br /> Losing her balance, Madison tumbled forward, rolling down the stairs with a series of thumps.<br /> "Ouch... it hurts, it hurts so much!"<br /> As Madison reached the ground floor, she wailed in pain and her sister immediately rushed to her.<br /> "Wesley, what have you done? How dare you hit my sister!" Madison's sister hurried down, checking on Madison's condition.<br /> Wesley remained silent, observing the scene.<br /> "Quick, call Taylor. Tell her to come back. Today, she must divorce this waste." Madison glared at Wesley. "How dare you hit me? Not only will I let Taylor divorce you, but I'll make sure you leave in disgrace."<br /> "Mum, what's wrong?" At that moment, a gent and a lady walked in.<br /> The lady was Taylor, Madison's daughter.<br /> She ran towards Madison.<br /> As Madison pointed at Wesley, tears streamed down her face. "Taylor, he hit me, he hit me! When you're not home, he changes his attitude, scolding and hitting me in the slightest displeasure. He even pushed me down the stairs just now. Alexis can testify."<br /> Madison's sister, Alexis Blair, chimed in. "Yes, Wesley, this trash not only hit your mother but also threatened to hit me too. We cannot tolerate such trash."<br /> "Taylor, I have been telling you to divorce him for years. You've been supporting him, treating him like a Lord at home, but he's an ungrateful wolf in sheep's clothing."<br /> Helping Madison up, Taylor noticed the scrapes on Madison's arms and legs, her expression turning cold.<br /> "Wesley, why did you hit my mother? You better give me an explanation."<br /> Wesley looked at Taylor, his wife.<br /> Five years had passed, and she had never shown him kindness.<br /> Taylor dressed impeccably, a paragon of a successful lady, with a face that could be deemed angelic, yet whether her heart was as angelic remained a mystery.<br /> Her figure, too, left countless men yearning.<br /> For five years, Wesley had thought he might develop feelings for this lady, but in reality, it never happened.<br /> "There are surveillance cameras in the house," Wesley stated calmly before descending the stairs into the hallway.<br /> Despite residing in a three-story villa, Wesley's living quarters were confined to the stairwell.<br /> He harbored no resentment towards this arrangement. It was merely a promise. It was just that Taylor failed to appreciate him.<br /> This home held little value that he wished to cling onto.<br /> Retrieving a wooden box from beneath his pillow, Wesley extracted two documents. Casting a fleeting glance at the modest abode he had called home for five years, Wesley smiled faintly.<br /> He thought, "Finally... I'm free."<br /> Pushing the door ajar, Wesley was met by Taylor's piercing gaze. "I've reviewed the surveillance footage. Yes, my mother intended to strike you, but even if she did, what difference would it make?"<br /> "She's a lady. How much could her blows hurt you? Why did you dodge?"<br /> "If you hadn't dodged, my mother wouldn't have tumbled down." Wesley stared at Taylor, unable to comprehend her thought process.<br /> He had no interest in engaging in these arguments. Handing over the two documents to Taylor, he remarked, "The divorce agreement. I've already signed it. Take a look. I'm leaving with nothing."<br /> "With your current influence, there's no need for you to visit the city hall. Someone will handle it for you, right?"<br /> Madison was taken aback. She swiftly snatched the divorce agreement, flipping through it hastily.<br /> The contents were indeed straightforward. Both parties willingly divorced, with Wesley relinquishing all claims and having already signed.<br /> In an instant, Madison's pain seemed to dissipate. "Taylor, sign it quickly. Sign it."<br /> Taylor was still in a daze.<br /> She pondered.<br /> "A divorce agreement? Wesley has already prepared a divorce agreement. On what grounds?"<br /> "What gives him the right to initiate a divorce? All these years, he's done nothing at home, lacking any ambition. Always practicing martial arts, what right does he have to seek a divorce?"<br /> "If anyone should initiate it, it should be me. Moreover, now that I'm back to discussing this matter with him. Could it be that word got out, and Wesley, for the sake of his pride, rushed to prepare a divorce agreement first?"<br /> "It must be so, but... No!"<br /> "Wanting to leave with nothing, is he retreating to advance? As the chairman of the Reed Group, how could I be served with a divorce?"<br /> "Hey Wesley, I never expected this from you. Have I not treated you well enough? You seek a divorce, attempting to turn your retreat into advance, aiming to embarrass me?"<br /> Taylor glared at Wesley. "I'm telling you, it's impossible."<br /> Snatching the divorce agreement, she tore it to shreds.<br /> "Taylor, what are you doing? Such a great opportunity. Why not just sign it and let him leave?" Madison grew anxious.<br /> "Mom, I do intend to divorce this trash, but the decision must come from me. I returned specifically to address this matter."<br /> With that, Taylor produced two documents. "Wesley, remember that it's me who's divorcing you. It's me who no longer wants you. Initially, out of marital obligation, I had considered offering you some compensation. Now, you don't even need to think about it. Sign the divorce agreement and leave my home."<br /> Wesley offered a faint smile as he accepted the divorce agreement.<br /> "What are you laughing at?" Taylor demanded angrily.<br /> Wesley's smile seemed to mock her, fueling her rage.<br /> Ignoring her entirely, Wesley signed the document and handed it over.<br /> "What are you laughing at? Answer me! Who do you think you are?" Taylor roared once more.<br /> Wesley glanced at her before striding towards the exit.<br /> "Stop!" The gent who had accompanied Taylor stepped forward, blocking Wesley's path. "Taylor asked you a question, and... Your previous attitude displeased me. Apologize to Taylor, or I'll have you leave in disgrace!"<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 <br /> "Yes, let him leave in disgrace. He thought he could just hit me and walk away so easily," Madison joined in the commotion, also noticing the gent blocking Wesley's path.<br /> Madison had a keen interest in luxury goods, having frequented various high-end establishments over the years as the Reed family's living conditions improved. The gent was wearing an expensive watch and dressed head to toe in high-end luxury brands.<br /> Seeing Madison's gaze, the gent spoke. "Rest assured, today Wesley must pay the price."<br /> The gent introduced himself, looking at Wesley, "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Henry Clark, the eldest son of the Clark family and the general manager of the Clark Group in the North District."<br /> "From now on, I will accompany Taylor on her journey of life, and I will not allow anyone to bully her."<br /> "My identity carries weight. You should understand that. Now, apologize to Taylor. Apologize! Did you hear me? Apologize!"<br /> Madison's eyes lit up. She hadn't expected the gent before her to hold such a high status. She continued to shout, "Did you hear that? Taylor will be with Mr. Clark from now on. Apologize now."<br /> Wesley glanced at Henry, then at Taylor. He thought, "Have they been together all along?" Wesley had wanted to ask but decided against it because there was no need. He simply gave them a glance and continued walking towards the exit.<br /> "Are you ignoring me?" Henry's face turned cold as he reached out to grab Wesley. Henry's hand froze mid-air as he received a solid hit.<br /> "Until I sign the divorce papers, Taylor and I are still wife and husband. I don't care to investigate whether you two had any intimate relationship during that time, but don't provoke me, or I won't hesitate to make you regret it." Wesley's gaze was icy, and as Henry met his eyes, he felt a twinge of fear and swallowed his words.<br /> Taylor was also stunned. She knew exactly what Wesley had been like over the past five years. There were many surveillance cameras in the house, and she would often check them.<br /> Even when Taylor wasn't home, despite how her family treated Wesley, he always obeyed without complaint, especially towards her. He had never raised his voice, no matter how they treated him.<br /> Today, not only did Wesley dodge when her mother struck, but he also initiated the divorce and now even struck Henry. <br /> Taylor was at a loss for words, thinking, "How could this cowardly gent dare? On what grounds does he dare?"<br /> This change was difficult for Taylor to accept as if she didn't truly understand this guy. The gent who used to be obedient to her, completely submissive, now revealed this side of himself. She watched Wesley walk away in a daze, feeling a strange discomfort in her heart.<br /> "Isn't he leaving with nothing?" Alexis pointed at the wooden box Wesley was holding. "What is he taking with him?"<br /> Madison also realized. Over the past five years, Wesley had always treasured this wooden box, carrying it with him wherever he went. She thought there must be something valuable inside.<br /> Realizing this, Madison hurriedly followed. "Wesley, stop right there, leave the wooden box."<br /> Wesley paused, glanced at Madison, and said, "This is my personal belonging."<br /> "Nonsense, what personal belonging could you possibly have after marrying into the Reed family? Everything you've eaten, worn, and lived in over the years has been provided by the Reed family. Put it down."<br /> As she spoke, Madison reached out to grab the wooden box.<br /> "Ah..." A scream rang out as Madison quickly retracted her hand, a gash appearing on her palm, a crimson liquid dripping.<br /> The wooden box was now stained with the same crimson liquid, trembling lightly in Wesley's hand.<br /> "It's not the right time yet, the day you thirst for this crimson liquid will come," Wesley murmured softly, patting the box before turning to continue his stride towards the exit.<br /> "Monster! A monster!" Madison screamed, causing Taylor and the others to rush out. Seeing the wound in Madison's hand, Taylor was filled with rage.<br /> "Wesley, aren't you going to say something?" Wesley halted once more, contemplating before meeting Taylor's gaze.<br /> "Just stay out of my way from now on. Consider this a warning to you."<br /> "Taylor, that wooden box of his has a mechanism. It must hold something valuable! We can't let him take it with him," Madison, enduring the pain, reminded them.<br /> "Mom, your injury is important. We'll deal with him later. Let me take you to the hospital first." Taylor comforted Madison before calling out to the retreating Wesley.<br /> "Our marriage is over! Yet, you dared to hurt my mother! This won't be the end of it! I will make you regret it!" Ignoring her, Wesley continued walking out.<br /> "Rest assured, I promise he won't see the light of day tomorrow." Henry stepped forward to console. "Let's focus on getting your wound treated first."<br /> "I want him to regret ever existing in this world, to apologize to me in repentance," Madison roared.<br /> "Mom, trust me, I will make him do just that." Taylor looked at Madison with a mix of pity and determination. "Let's go to the hospital first."<br /> In the villa area, Wesley halted, his voice cold. "Get out."<br /> An elderly gent leaped down from a tree, appearing to be in his seventies, yet landing silently from a height of around ten feet.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, your father wants you to come home and take charge."<br /> "He stopped being my father five years ago. He's my enemy."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you misunderstood your father. He had his reasons back then. I swear in my life, once you know the truth, you will forgive him."<br /> "Huh!" Wesley smirked coldly, saying, "I nearly passed away back then. Is that also a misunderstanding?"<br /> The old gent pleaded, "Mr. Harrington, this situation is truly not as you perceive it."<br /> Wesley didn't engage further with the old guy. The events of that year were etched in his memory forever. He was the one who had been abandoned. If not for that incident, why would he have stayed with the Reed family for five years?<br /> Watching Wesley walk away, the old gent had tears silently streaming down his face. "Mr. Harrington, I truly... I truly can't bring myself to speak the truth, but you have misunderstood your father. He also bears burdens and endures pains beyond what an ordinary person can handle."<br /> As Wesley's figure disappeared, the old gent stood up, hesitated for a moment, then dialed a number on his phone.<br /> "Mr. Harrington is now divorced. I've given you the news firsthand. If your daughter is truly together with Mr. Harrington, you must fulfill the promise and let her persuade Mr. Harrington to come home."<br /> After hanging up, a middle-aged gent in a luxurious estate jumped up excitedly. Calming himself, he immediately made another call. "My dear, you're at Yeadeo, right?<br /> "Go find Wesley now. Don't mention the engagement for now. Use every means to get close to him, make him fall in love with you."<br /> "Dad, I don't have time."<br /> "No matter what you are busy with, you must go find Wesley now. No matter what reason you approach him, you must leave a good impression the first time."<br /> "Dad, I'm in trouble right now. If I don't handle it well, I might be good as gone. I have to deal with it immediately. I'm hanging up."<br /> Chapter 3 <br /> The middle-aged gent's voice lowered significantly. "Is there a big incident happening? You didn't tell me? What happened?"<br /> "Quinn Kingsley from Yeadeo, Mr. Kingsley, used our product and now has one foot on the grave. If something really happens to him..."<br /> "You mean Quinn, the uncontested leader of Yeadeo?"<br /> "Yes."<br /> "In that case, you should go find Wesley. Trust me, in this world, there is no problem that Wesley can't solve. As long as he's willing to help, you'll be fine. Listen to me, go find Wesley immediately."<br /> The lady fell silent for a moment before saying, "Okay."<br /> At Yeadeo Harbor, a gent with a large flaxen chain and a watch, sporting a crew cut, hurriedly disembarked, accompanied by a dozen gentlemen.<br /> "Mr. Reed, wherever that trash is, we will find him and tear him apart."<br /> "Yes, that guy dared to harm your mother. We'll make sure he pays for it."<br /> Frank Reed's face turned cold. "Wesley, you coward, thinking you can overturn the world? How dare you touch my mom? Just wait until I find you, you're finished."<br /> "We've found him. Wesley got into a taxi, and our boys followed him."<br /> "Let's go!" Frank waved his hand, leading dozens of men who boarded the car with harpoons, steel pipes, and other weapons.<br /> Inside the taxi, Wesley gazed at the scenery outside, feeling a strange sense of tranquility.<br /> He thought to himself, "I never imagined that while I was secretly paving the way for the Reed family, Taylor, after progressing so rapidly, would start looking down on me more and more."<br /> "Those ladies who know my true identity, which one of them isn't trying to throw themselves at me? Ladies like that don't interest me."<br /> "Being an ordinary gent is truly difficult," Wesley murmured, smiling faintly and deciding not to dwell on these matters anymore. He had important things to attend to and no time to waste on personal affairs.<br /> "Young lad, are you going to Feidgeuo Manor for a job interview?" The driver, curious about Wesley's destination, inquired.<br /> Feidgeuo Manor was Yeadeo's most mysterious private area. Originally a villa area, it was bought at a huge cost five years ago and completely renovated. It was said to have cost a trillion dollars. The former villa area was now Feidgeuo Manor.<br /> "That's my home," Wesley replied nonchalantly.<br /> The driver was taken aback by this revelation, silently cursing Wesley for bragging. After a couple of minutes, the driver regained his composure. "It seems like you and I both prefer to keep a low profile. My car usually gathers dust at home, so I occasionally drive a taxi to experience life."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "My car has been driven by my assistant for the past few years, so it's not gathering dust."<br /> "Haha..." The driver laughed. "We should get together sometime and see whose car is more impressive."<br /> "Sure, whenever we have the time."<br /> As they chatted, the vehicle soon arrived near Feidgeuo Manor, where the massive head of the Feidgeuo Peak protruded, creating a unique landscape in Yeadeo.<br /> The driver asked with a smile, "Since you're the owner here, it's fine if I drive in, right?"<br /> "Of course," Wesley replied.<br /> As soon as Wesley spoke, several cars caught up from behind.<br /> The cars surrounded the one Wesley was in, with the front vehicles braking to force the car to a stop.<br /> When numerous people descended from cars wielding harpoons and steel pipes, the driver's face paled.<br /> Frank and his group got out of the cars, instantly closing in, and without hesitation, started attacking, the steel pipes and harpoons thudding against the car.<br /> Frank's henchman yanked open the door of Wesley's car, poised to stab Wesley with a harpoon, but Wesley swiftly exited the vehicle.<br /> With a firm step on the ground, he launched a swift hit.<br /> A muffled sound echoed as the henchman was hit away.<br /> "What are you looking at?" Frank noticed his henchmen were all staring at him. "All of you, attack together and take him down!"<br /> As he commanded, the henchmen Frank brought with him surged forward.<br /> The taxi driver, trembling, took out his phone to call the police, but Frank glared at him. "I am Frank Reed from Yeadeo Harbor. If you dare, go ahead and make that call."<br /> Frank, leveraging his sister Taylor's status, had been causing trouble in Yeadeo Harbor, and no one dared to provoke him.<br /> Upon hearing Frank's name, the driver hastily put away his phone. "Mr. Reed, I'll just check the time, you guys continue."<br /> "Huh!" Frank snorted coldly, casting his gaze towards the surrounded Wesley.<br /> The sounds of thuds continued to ring out incessantly. Because Wesley was completely surrounded, Frank was unable to see the situation inside clearly, but he could imagine it. After all, in Frank's mind, the henchmen under his command were not to be trifled with.<br /> "Hit him hard for me!"<br /> Another muffled sound and a figure flew out. At that moment, Frank finally saw the situation clearly, and his face turned pale.<br /> Frank knew that Wesley liked to practice martial arts, but he had never expected Wesley to be this skilled. It wasn't Wesley who had been beaten, but his own men by Wesley alone.<br /> Frantically, Frank turned and ran to retrieve a crossbow from the car.<br /> "Clear the way." Frank bellowed, aiming the crossbow at Wesley.<br /> "You scumbag, you think you can fight? Move one more time, and I'll end your life! Surrender!"<br /> Wesley, holding a wooden box, stared at Frank. Ignoring the crossbow in his hand, Wesley said, "Tell your henchmen to back off, or you'll all see the light from above!"<br /> "You're really good at pretending to be tough." Frank took two steps forward. "See the light? Move a muscle and see if I can end your life or not! If you don't have the guts, apologize now!"<br /> Wesley turned his head and looked at the approaching cars, with two expensive ones in the lead, two more in the rear, and another one in the middle.<br /> "Keep acting tough, and I'll put a hole in your head." Frank spoke while glancing at the five cars. "What, looking for help?"<br /> "Let me tell you, those who ride in these cars are not the kind of weaklings like you who rely on connections. With me here, in Yeadeo's social hierarchy, even those who ride in such cars wouldn't dare meddle in this matter. And let me make it clear, without my sister, you're nothing."<br /> <br /> Chapter 4<br /> As Frank's words faded, the five cars came to a halt.<br /> A bodyguard opened the door of the one in the middle, revealing a dazzling pair of shining shoes catching everyone's eye.<br /> The shining shoe encased a beautiful foot. Above, the skirt's hem was adorned with lace.<br /> Then, like a fairy stepping out of a painting, she appeared before everyone's eyes.<br /> The lady was beautiful!<br /> Frank was mesmerized. Ever since the Reed family rose to prominence, he had been surrounded by ladies, but compared to the elegant lady before him, they were worlds apart.<br /> It wasn't just a difference in appearance but an incomparable gap in demeanor.<br /> The lady descending from the Maybach seemed like a celestial being untouched by mortal affairs.<br /> The embodiment of a fairy in the mundane world.<br /> She simply stood there after getting out of the car, perfectly embodying what it meant to be graceful and elegant.<br /> The lady glanced at Wesley, then at Frank.<br /> Frank grinned, saying, "May I have the honor of knowing the name of this esteemed lady? I am Frank..."<br /> The lady spoke calmly. "Disrespect Mr. Harrington, and you're done for."<br /> Her bodyguards, unfazed by Frank's crossbow, swiftly overwhelmed him, sending him crashing to the ground.<br /> The henchmen who had come with Frank, previously defeated by Wesley, now scrambled to their feet and fled in all directions.<br /> Who would dare provoke someone who could afford such a car?<br /> "My sister is Taylor Reed, the chairperson of Reed Group," Frank shouted, clutching his head.<br /> Ignoring him, one of the bodyguards dragged him to the roadside grass while another used a belt to tighten around Frank's neck, exerting pressure.<br /> "Enough, a lesson is all that's needed." Wesley spoke calmly, and only when the lady gestured did the bodyguards release Frank.<br /> Frank lay there, already unconscious.<br /> Wesley turned to the lady. "Who are you?"<br /> "I am Mia Roberts, the general manager of Vinver Business Alliance's Yeadeo branch." She looked at Wesley and continued, "Mr. Harrington, my father mentioned that you have miraculous healing skills and earnestly requested your assistance. A generous reward awaits."<br /> Wesley furrowed his brow slightly, thinking, "There are indeed people who recognize my abilities and status, yet I've rarely intervened in the past five years. Today, shortly after I divorced Taylor, she is here. Whose arrangement is this?"<br /> "Mr. Harrington, my father also mentioned that you are benevolent and has raised the banner of compassion among healers, serving as a role model and benchmark for all in the medical field."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "You have a way with words. Tell me the specifics."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, please get in the car first. I will explain in detail on the way."<br /> The phrase "compassionate healer" held significant weight for Wesley, who had saved countless lives from the brink of death.<br /> Without further ado, he got into the car.<br /> Inside, after Mia brewed coffee for Wesley, she began. "Vinver Business Alliance has a wide range of business operations, and I mainly oversee the health supplement sector, which has seen some success in recent years.<br /> "Recently, Quinn Kingsley started using our medicines, and now there's an accident."<br /> As she spoke, Mia kept her gaze fixed on Wesley.<br /> Quinn, the undisputed leader of Yeadeo, was a figure of immense influence.<br /> Upon hearing this name, Wesley showed no particular reaction. "If the city's leader faces issues with your products, it is indeed a concern. Let's go and see."<br /> With just a sentence, Wesley leaned back in his seat, closing his eyes to rest.<br /> Mia was secretly alarmed, thinking, "He knows who Quinn is, yet he seems indifferent. Who is this Wesley, really? No wonder Dad has instructed me to find a way to win his favor." Mia's inner resistance toward Wesley quietly shifted.<br /> Wesley had piqued her curiosity.<br /> As the vehicle was moving, Wesley's phone rang.<br /> Wesley opened his eyes and took out his phone to see Taylor calling.<br /> Pressing the answer button, he asked, "What's the matter?"<br /> On the other end of the line, Taylor, driving towards Feidgeuo Manor, had a grim expression.<br /> She thought, "Has Wesley ever spoken to me in such a cold tone before? Is he really this heartless right after our divorce?"<br /> Already furious, she snapped. "Wesley, do you even consider yourself a human being?<br /> "Today, not only did you lay hands on my mother, but you also had someone attack my brother. Do you not remember our past at all?"<br /> Wesley calmly replied, "Do we have a past to remember?"<br /> "You truly are a heartless scumbag, just as my mother said. You are an ungrateful and vicious person I raised for five years. Even a pet would wag its tail at me!"<br /> Taylor wanted to continue her tirade, but the phone line had already turned busy.<br /> This only fueled her anger further.<br /> Just now, she had received a call from Frank's underlings, informing her that Wesley had sent people to attack Frank and even intended to end him.<br /> Taylor wanted to demand answers, but...<br /> As Taylor was clutching her fists, her gaze turned icy.<br /> After a moment, she picked up her phone again. "Wesley, you are so narrow-minded. You have no ambition. Any lady would steer clear of you."<br /> "Just because I dumped you, you are doing this on purpose to make me feel sick. Pretending to be aloof and seeking revenge? Do you even deserve it?"<br /> "In Yeadeo, squashing you would be as easy as squashing an ant. You're asking for it! If anything happens to my brother, I will make you wish you were ending!"<br /> Her furious voice message echoed in the car.<br /> Wesley chuckled and put away his phone.<br /> Beside him, Mia seemed contemplative. Before coming, she had already ordered a swift investigation into Wesley.<br /> She was curious, thinking, "How could someone valued by my father could be the one 'marrying into' the Reed family."<br /> Being tactful, Mia chose not to ask and pretended not to have heard.<br /> After about forty minutes, they arrived at the Kingsley Manor.<br /> The Kingsley family members, upon seeing Mia alight from the car, all wore grim expressions.<br /> Mia greeted them with a smile, "Everyone, this is Wesley Harrington, Mr. Harrington, the miraculous healer I specially invited to treat Mr. Kingsley."<br /> "Him? The gent who married into the Reed family?"<br /> "A miraculous healer? Is he even worthy? Are healers so worthless now?"<br /> "A useless gent who mooches off of the Reed family? How dare he call himself a miraculous healer? Truly a joke among all jokes."<br /> Chapter 5<br /> <br /> Amanda Kingsley, Quinn's granddaughter, stared coldly at Wesley and Mia.<br /> This lady, dressed in a smart suit, also held significant fame in Yeadeo, overseeing the region's business activities, including investment attraction and various local business negotiations.<br /> Amanda had a favorable view of Taylor, who had risen swiftly in recent times, and they had interacted frequently.<br /> She was aware of Wesley's existence and had advised Taylor to part ways with him early on.<br /> But Amanda never imagined that Mia would bring someone like Wesley, a complete waste, and claim he was a miraculous healer.<br /> Glaring at Mia, she said, "Mia, once my grandfather is well, it's best for your Roberts family to leave Yeadeo."<br /> "As for you..." She glanced at Wesley. "I will advise Taylor to divorce you. You have deceived Taylor's feelings and now shamelessly made your way into my family. You are a despicable creature."<br /> After reprimanding Mia and Wesley, she turned to an elderly gent beside her, and her tone and attitude completely changed. "Mr. Phillips, sorry to trouble you. My grandfather is inside, please."<br /> Mia looked at the elderly gent, who was already in his twilight years, feeling deeply shocked.<br /> Scott Phillips, the 38th generation heir of the Healing Clinic, was now ninety-two years old.<br /> Renowned as a miraculous healer, he was a respected figure in the medical community of Yeadeo and even nationally.<br /> He no longer conducted consultations personally due to his old age. Mia had visited him specifically to pay her respects once she had arrived in Yeadeo but had not met Scott.<br /> She never expected Scott to appear in person. It was understandable, as Quinn held a prominent position in the city. Despite the profound influence of the Phillips family, they still had to show respect to Quinn.<br /> Mia looked at Wesley, feeling conflicted and thinking, "Dad has confidently claimed that Wesley has extraordinary abilities, but does he really?"<br /> She harbored doubts, but out of propriety, Mia spoke. "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the trouble."<br /> Wesley smiled, "It's fine. As long as the person can be healed."<br /> His open-mindedness impressed Mia.<br /> After about half an hour, Amanda emerged from the room. All eyes instantly turned towards her.<br /> It was evident that Amanda had wailed out, with traces of tears still visible.<br /> "Amanda, how is it?" A middle-aged gent anxiously asked her.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family who had rushed back also focused their attention on her.<br /> "Mr. Phillips said that there's little hope of recovery. He could only use acupuncture to wake grandfather for half an hour. When grandfather wakes up, let's all go in and see if he has any final instructions."<br /> Everyone was shocked.<br /> "How could this be?"<br /> "Is Mr. Phillips also helpless?"<br /> The members of the Kingsley family found it hard to accept this reality, especially since Quinn had always treated his juniors well.<br /> The thought of Quinn departing saddened some, and tears silently fell.<br /> Publicly, Quinn's status was the foundation of the Kingsley family's prominence in Yeadeo.<br /> If Quinn were to pass away, the Kingsley family would undoubtedly decline.<br /> The atmosphere within the Kingsley family was somber.<br /> Amanda looked at her family members, opened her mouth, but said nothing, silently turning back into the room.<br /> "Stop crying," A middle-aged gent said sternly, "Dad wouldn't want to see you all in tears. If he's really leaving, we mustn't let him worry about us. Pull yourselves together."<br /> After these words, the middle-aged gent also entered the room.<br /> The younger members of the Kingsley family wiped their tears vigorously, trying to force smiles, but in truth, they looked better at crying than pretending to be happy.<br /> Mia's spirit plummeted as she realized the gravity of the situation. Even if an ordinary person passed away from consuming health supplements, it spelled big trouble for those who sold them. And when the deceased happened to be Quinn, the stakes were even higher.<br /> She understood that it would be difficult for this branch to stay in Yeadeo, and even the headquarters might face repercussions.<br /> "Let's go in and have a look." Wesley glanced at Mia. "There might still be a chance."<br /> "Ah..." Mia stared at Wesley in surprise. Seeing him already heading towards the room, she quickly followed suit.<br /> Inside the room, the members of the Kingsley family stood around the mattress, maintaining a certain distance.<br /> Scott lit the alcohol lamp and took out the needles, his expression solemn.<br /> He looked at the members of the Kingsley family. "Think about what you want to say to Mr. Kingsley later. Once you're ready, let me know, and then I'll proceed with the acupuncture."<br /> As he said this, tears welled up in many eyes.<br /> "If you don't mind, let me take a look. I have a way." Wesley spoke up, drawing everyone's attention.<br /> Amanda's face darkened. "Who let you in? Get out!"<br /> "Mia, have you lost your mind? Tricked by this trash and actually brought him here as a miracle healer. Get out with him! I'll settle the score with you in a couple of days."<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, at a loss for words.<br /> "Even Mr. Phillips is unable to reverse the situation. What use are you? Get out." Another younger member of the Kingsley family angrily rebuked.<br /> The middle-aged gent added, "We're in no mood right now. You better leave immediately."<br /> "I understand your narrow-mindedness," Wesley continued, "But as a healer, once I see a patient, I cannot stand by and watch him draw his last breath."<br /> "Wesley, you're quite the charlatan. Do you really want to be gone right now?" Amanda's voice was filled with anger.<br /> "Amanda, let me say a few words," Scott interjected, and Amanda fell silent.<br /> Looking at Wesley, Scott began. "Young lad, at my age, I've seen a lot and have a broad perspective. Today, however, I find it hard to remain indifferent. I practiced medicine from the age of sixteen until I stopped seeing patients for a total of seventy years."<br /> "I've saved countless patients from various illnesses. I never easily declare a patient's fate, nor do I believe I have the right to do so."<br /> "But from your recent remarks, it seems like you're accusing me of such actions. Young people wanting to make a name for themselves by stepping on the shoulders of their predecessors, I can understand."<br /> "But this kind of behavior displeases me."<br /> "My displeasure, what does it mean to you? Do you understand?"<br /> "Even if you are a healer, your career will be ruined because of this."<br /> Chapter 6 <br /> In the face of Scott's veiled threats, Wesley simply smiled and brushed them off.<br /> Looking at Scott, he asked, "I've always focused on the issue at hand rather than attacking individuals. I have a few questions for you. If you can't administer the needles, how long do you think Quinn can hold on?"<br /> "Seven days, but he will remain unconscious," Scott replied bluntly.<br /> "Then let me ask you this, is there anyone in the world with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "Outrageous," Amanda coldly interjected, "Mr. Phillips is unparalleled in his medical expertise."<br /> Scott glanced at Amanda. "Amanda, let me handle this question."<br /> Continuing to address Wesley, he said, "I don't underestimate myself, nor do I overestimate. There are countless talented individuals in the world, like stars in the sky. I may not dare claim to be the best in medical skills, but those who surpass me are few."<br /> "That means there are some," Wesley calmly remarked, causing Scott's expression to shift slightly, "Indeed, there are."<br /> "Then let me ask you this. Do you think within seven days, the Kingsley family won't find someone with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "If they do find someone, do you believe there is an illness that you cannot cure, but this person can?"<br /> Wesley's questions were sharp and resounding.<br /> Scott's face changed once more as he was rendered speechless.<br /> "Even if there is, that person will never be you." Amanda's face turned icy. "Now get out. Don't spout your eloquence here. Your deceitful behavior is repulsive."<br /> "Your understanding of me is merely hearsay, isn't it?" Wesley retorted, his gaze mocking Amanda, "Has your background and education taught you such arrogance and prejudice?"<br /> "Arrogance?" Amanda's face grew colder as she disdainfully looked at Wesley. "Prejudice?<br /> "Did I say something wrong just now? You are nothing but stagnant waste, a parasite living off others. If it weren't for Taylor, you would have starved on the streets long ago."<br /> "Relying on sweet words, deceiving Taylor. She, with her kind heart, can't bear to divorce you, but don't push your luck. If it weren't for Taylor's sake, you would have been sent out long ago."<br /> Scott interrupted Amanda, "Amanda, although I find this lad a bit annoying, what he said does hold some truth. There are indeed individuals with better medical skills than me. Your grandfather can hold on for seven days. Try reaching out to see if someone can come over. I'll help you make connections."<br /> "If it really doesn't work out after seven days, I'll administer the needles to your grandfather. However, at that point, I can only buy you three minutes."<br /> As soon as Scott spoke, the faces of the Kingsley family members grew even more solemn. True healers were rare and not easily summoned.<br /> While the Kingsley family had connections in Yeadeo, their influence waned outside of it.<br /> "Mr. Phillips, please administer the needles. Life has its ups and downs, and we understand that. Just buy my father a bit more time." The middle-aged gent spoke up.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family nodded in agreement.<br /> Amanda looked at Scott. "Mr. Phillips, please."<br /> "In that case, please have everyone unrelated leave. I need silence," Scott calmly stated.<br /> Amanda glared at Wesley, her eyes speaking volumes without a word.<br /> The unrelated individuals were, naturally, Wesley and Mia.<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, intending to leave, but she suddenly hesitated.<br /> Instead of leaving, Wesley moved forward.<br /> "What are you doing?" A young member of the Kingsley family stepped forward with a stern expression, pushing Wesley.<br /> In one swift motion, Wesley executed a clean shoulder throw, toppling the young gent to the ground, his own expression turning cold.<br /> "A bunch of fools! If it weren't for my teacher's teachings about not turning a blind eye to those in need, I wouldn't bother with you ignorant lot," Wesley remarked with disdain.<br /> As Wesley effortlessly took down one individual from the Kingsley family, the others seemed slow to react.<br /> By the time they realized what was happening, Wesley had already picked up the needle next to Scott and casually flicked his wrist.<br /> The needle flew out of his hand, piercing Quinn's temple, followed by a second needle, a third needle, and so on.<br /> "What are you doing? Stop!" Amanda's voice rose in urgency, echoed by the rest of the Kingsley family members who rushed forward to restrain Wesley.<br /> "Stay back, everyone. Wait." Scott suddenly stood up, blocking the others. "Let him try."<br /> Amanda and the others were left dumbfounded, thinking, "What does this mean?"<br /> Despite their confusion, they heeded Scott's words.<br /> After Scott stopped the members of the Kingsley family, he fixed his gaze on Wesley.<br /> Wesley proceeded to use eighteen needles in succession, symbolizing the levels of pain.<br /> Even if someone had descended into the depths of hell, they must be brought back.<br /> The final needle, also piercing a vital point, caused Quinn's body to tremble suddenly, resonating with the previous eighteen needles.<br /> Scott's eyes widened, his body trembling slightly. His reaction left Amanda and the others even more puzzled, but none dared to interrupt.<br /> Moments later, Wesley placed a palm on Quinn's chest, causing all eighteen needles to be shaken off. When all the needles landed on the ground, the part of the skin where the needles had pierced turned dark.<br /> Wesley then dragged Quinn to the edge of the mattress, flipped him over with his head facing downwards, and gave him a firm pat on the back.<br /> Quinn spat out a mouthful of black liquid. When Wesley flipped him back to lie flat, his complexion had regained some color.<br /> "The Hand of Darkness... It's the Hand of Darkness!" Scott exclaimed with excitement, his body quivering, "It's the Hand that descends into the dark world, snatching people from the hands of the Evil!"<br /> "You do have some knowledge, recognizing the Hand of Darkness." Wesley glanced at Scott.<br /> Scott's gaze towards Wesley had undergone a drastic change. He respectfully clasped his hands together.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thirty years ago, I had the honor of attending a teaching conference held by Mr. Vanderbilt. I saw the Hand of Darkness, but my limited aptitude only allowed me to grasp the basics."<br /> "I have been blind and ignorant. I apologize for my earlier offenses. Please forgive me, Mr. Harrington."<br /> The Mr. Vanderbilt Scott referred to was Wesley's teacher, Ulysses Vanderbilt. He generously imparted his skills to others, but the ability to learn depended on one's innate talent.<br /> In this world, few could learn Ulysses' skills.<br /> Scott had been fortunate to receive guidance from Ulysses, which had elevated his medical skills. However, the Hand of Darkness, a miraculous ability, was beyond his comprehension.<br /> Wesley smiled faintly, "Your actions earlier are understandable. I appreciate your words."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you must be an exceptional disciple of Mr. Vanderbilt, possessing unparalleled magnanimity. Impressive," Scott continued.<br /> "Enough with the flattery at your age."<br /> "You are mistaken, Mr. Harrington. Every word I speak is sincere."<br /> Mia, Amanda, and the others stood bewildered by the unfolding situation.<br /> "Mr. Phillips... he... he..." Amanda's words faltered.<br /> Scott turned to the members of the Kingsley family. "Meeting Mr. Harrington was Quinn's luck. His symptoms have been cured by Mr. Harrington. With a few days of rest, he will be fine."<br /> The waste Taylor had previously said was called Mr. Harrington by Scott!<br /> Recalling their previous attitudes, Amanda hurriedly apologized, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> The members of the Kingsley family all apologized in unison, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> Chapter 7 <br /> With a faint smile, Wesley remarked, "As family members of a patient, your actions earlier are understandable. There's no need for such formality."<br /> Amanda's perplexity deepened as she thought, "Where is the cowardly waste that Taylor described? This display of magnanimity and breadth is far from it."<br /> Mia, too, felt a shiver of realization, thinking, "No wonder Dad has insisted on my proximity to Wesley.<br /> This guy..."<br /> She gazed at Wesley, her curiosity piqued, a sense of exploration stirring within her.<br /> "Mia has brought you here, Mr. Harrington, to cure my grandfather. The Kingsley family will never forget this act. However, considering that my grandfather's ailment stemmed from the health supplements produced by the Vinver Business Alliance, we will be conducting an investigation into it."<br /> Amanda continued, looking at Wesley, "What do you think... of this approach?"<br /> It was Mia who had invited Wesley, so Amanda had grown wiser, refraining from asking for a direct punishment of the Vinver Business Alliance.<br /> As Mia heard Amanda's words, her heart skipped a beat, realizing trouble was brewing.<br /> "On the way here, Ms. Roberts briefed me on the situation. You conducted experiments on mice, correct?"<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes, the health supplements we received were exclusively provided by the Roberts family. There were no similar cases on the market, so we used mice for testing.<br /> "All the mice that ingested this supplement were gone."<br /> She looked at Mia and added, her voice turning colder, "Before the experiment, I specifically contacted Mia to inquire about the testing methods during the development phase, which involved mice.<br /> "There have been individuals eyeing my grandfather's position, some even wishing for his demise. I never imagined that the Vinver Business Alliance, which I attracted for investment, would become a weapon in someone else's hands."<br /> "Do you have any of the remaining medicine?" Wesley inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes."<br /> "Bring some over."<br /> Immediately, someone fetched the medicine. After it was brought to him, Wesley took out a supplement and swallowed it directly.<br /> This scene left Amanda and the others dumbfounded.<br /> Scott, too, was bewildered. "Mr. Harrington, what are you doing?"<br /> Wesley smiled, "Just proving that this medicine is not toxic."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thank you," Mia thanked sincerely, feeling like crying at that moment.<br /> Amanda, with a puzzled expression, looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, are you suggesting that my grandfather's condition wasn't caused by the Vinver Business Alliance's medicine? What about the mice?"<br /> The rest were equally puzzled.<br /> "Yes, but not entirely," Wesley said, leaving everyone even more bewildered.<br /> Mia's emotions were like a rollercoaster ride, from relief to immediate tension.<br /> "This medicine itself is not toxic, but when taken with another substance made from a certain plant, it results in Quinn's condition. The mice would die immediately, while humans could endure a few more days."<br /> Wesley continued to explain, "The plant used in this concoction is originally meant for crafting slow-acting toxins, not for human consumption."<br /> Looking at Amanda, Wesley said, "During this period, whoever had access to your grandfather and the mice will better understand why these events occurred."<br /> The gaze of members of the Kingsley family immediately focused on a lady.<br /> Amanda, somewhat incredulous, looked at her. "Can you offer an explanation?"<br /> The lady was the wife of Amanda's deceased brother. She found it hard to accept, as did the rest of the Kingsley family.<br /> This lady had been named the exemplary lady who served her family well this year, not due to her connection with the Kingsley family but because she genuinely deserved it.<br /> "What do you mean? Amanda, what explanation do you want from me?"<br /> The lady stared at Amanda. "Am I the only one who had access to Grandfather and the mice? You, and you... and you, who didn't have access?"<br /> "You all claim to treat me as family. Since I married into the Kingsley family, I have worked diligently, contributing my share even if not acknowledged."<br /> "Amanda, it has been over a year since your brother passed, and I never once considered remarrying. Now, just because of his words, you demand an explanation from me?"<br /> Pointing at Wesley, the lady questioned, "Just because he accuses me of poisoning, you suspect me? Tell me, did I poison him?" The lady glared at Wesley.<br /> "I am merely analyzing the facts. As for concluding this case, it's not within my purview," Wesley addressed the members of the Kingsley family, saying, "You should conduct a thorough investigation into this matter.<br /> "I will write a prescription. Have Quinn take it on time, and he will recover in seven days."<br /> Amanda hurried to fetch paper and pen while Wesley prepared the prescription. Once done, he was ready to leave.<br /> Amanda said hurriedly, "Mr. Harrington, I've already made arrangements for lunch."<br /> "No need," Wesley smiled.<br /> The Kingsley family sought to build closer ties with Wesley, given his extraordinary medical skills. Wesley was well aware of this.<br /> Looking at Amanda and the others, Wesley remarked, "In the future, if you encounter any difficult medical cases that others cannot solve, seek me out. Remember, cases others cannot solve."<br /> The gaze of the Kingsley family members toward Wesley changed once again. Many renowned healers had eccentric personalities and were difficult to engage.<br /> They hadn't expected Wesley to possess such remarkable medical skills without any airs.<br /> As Wesley prepared to depart, the members of the Kingsley family did not dare to insist on his stay, so they accompanied him outside.<br /> "Oh, how could we forget such an important matter? Amanda, what about the consultation fee?" The middle-aged gent inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the oversight. Please wait a moment." Amanda hurried back inside and soon returned with a bank card in hand.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, there's one million dollars in here."<br /> Without hesitation, Wesley accepted the bank card and boarded Mia's car.<br /> During the journey, Mia boldly looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, you've helped me immensely. Can I treat you to a meal? Don't decline in a hurry. It's not a fancy restaurant, but it will leave you wanting more. It's a small place on the street, with only eight plates of noodles served each day, each plate containing different ingredients.<br /> "I managed to secure a reservation. Are you interested?"<br /> Wesley thought, "Eight Plates of Noodles? Ah, Aaron's restaurant. It has been a while since I visited those old friends."<br /> Wesley nodded. "Let's go then."<br /> The restaurant, Eight Plates of Noodles, was located on Chanxold Street near the Yeadeo First Central Hospital.<br /> The establishment was small, serving only eight plates of noodles each day at a price of 10 thousand dollars each. Vernoic's television culinary program had specifically covered this incident.<br /> Reservations were a must to secure a plate.<br /> The restaurant's owner had a mysterious background. While the specifics were unknown, a high-ranking noble from the capital of Vernoic, Kingsland, had caused a scene there once.<br /> He had attempted to force his way in without a reservation. Although this incident hadn't been reported, rumors suggested that a garbage truck had to be called to dispose of the intruder's remains, as he was too shattered to be removed by conventional means.<br /> Since then, no one dared to cause trouble.<br /> On their way, Mia introduced Wesley to the background story.<br /> "Mr. Turner, two plates of noodles." Mia called out once they arrived.<br /> Aaron Turner didn't respond but visibly paused upon seeing Wesley beside Mia.<br /> A faint smile appeared on his usually stoic face. Though the flesh on the face seemed stiff, it was indeed a smile. "Coming right up."<br /> Mia glanced at Aaron with a hint of surprise, thinking, "When did he become so warm and enthusiastic? His tone seemed a bit agitated earlier, didn't it?"<br /> Soon enough, Aaron brought two plates of noodles to the table. One steaming hot and the other devoid of any warmth.<br /> As Mia observed Aaron placing the plate without steam in front of Wesley, her expression changed slightly.<br /> It was a plate of instant noodles having soaked in cold water, with the seasoning barely dissolved.<br /> She felt a sense of panic. Mia had wanted to leave a good impression on Wesley, which was why she had chosen this place.<br /> However, Aaron had served such a plate of noodles.<br /> She dared not question Aaron. The type of noodles served here was not determined by the guests but by Aaron's mood.<br /> "This girl named Mia is quite something, living up to her name, and quite kind-hearted," Aaron remarked, looking at Wesley.<br /> "Get lost," Wesley retorted, using his fork to pick up the noodles and devouring them.<br /> Mia's face turned pale instantly. Disrespecting Aaron was akin to risking Wesley's life.<br /> To her astonishment, Aaron chuckled, tears welling up in his eyes.<br /> He wiped them away. "Alright, I'll leave you to your meal."<br /> Before departing, he gave Mia a thumbs-up. "Seize the opportunity."<br /> The eight plates of noodles symbolized the eight comrades who had faced life and life-threatening situations together.<br /> Wesley ate voraciously. Initially, they had only one pack of instant noodles to share among the eight of them, forcing them to divide it.<br /> Despite the circumstances, they devoured the noodles joyfully.<br /> Aaron had promised that once they survived, each one would have the most delicious plate of noodles.<br /> However, five of the eight had perished.<br /> Wesley had come dangerously close to life-threatening situations, but managed to cling to life.<br /> For him, the plate of noodles was not food but the bond of friendship that had shielded him from harm.<br /> "Do you... know each other?" Mia couldn't help but ask, her voice low and curious.<br /> "Some things are better left unknown," Wesley replied.<br /> Mia nodded in understanding, falling silent as they continued eating noodles. She couldn't help stealing glances at Wesley throughout the meal.<br /> This gent had piqued her curiosity even more.<br /> "Wesley, I see. No wonder you agreed to the divorce so readily. You've already found someone else outside."<br /> A sharp voice interrupted their meal.<br /> Taylor approached with a cold expression, accompanied by Henry. | Adoread Romance story | 106 | https://facebook.com/61557113391558 | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1713250800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846720 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446608 | 1735168082 | 890 | 7471215566290332 | 1 | 1.61215288962E+15 | 1714114800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 235254296344339 | 0 | Adoread Romance story | 120207848362970113 | play.google.com | Install now | NONE | video | HOT BOOK✨Tap the button to read more👉 | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.adoread.book | 1713261158 | 2.3525429634434E+14 | Adoread Romance story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435690837_399041509643910_958789851874072726_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ysq3_NkISgkQ7kNvgHThG_Z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCUBJlAGDsG0wIQrFsE_0Ga-I14MDTBWAO7WtmgDNILbg&oe=6663FBD4 | person_profile | 0 | Adoread Romance story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437516400_451274757332740_4638844982062519028_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zkWhYaWi39IQ7kNvgHMlkM6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBsmfu3FWvZuvznM0wfO_t8J8TJmqTjL6B4R3dIpTTRAA&oe=66640A0B | 0 | 3 | Chapter 1 <br /> "Wesley, are you trying to harm me? You useless piece of trash, can't even make a decent cup of coffee, can you?"<br /> Madison Blair lifted her coffee cup and splashed it directly onto Wesley Harrington's face.<br /> "What are you looking at, you spineless waste? Your name sounds so lofty? I might as well call you a waste."<br /> Glancing at the grotesque expression of his wife's mother, Wesley pulled out his phone to check the time.<br /> Exactly twelve o'clock. It had been five full years since he married Taylor Reed.<br /> The appointed time had come.<br /> He had fulfilled his promise, safeguarding the Reed family for five years, transforming them from a family living off fishing to one perceived as affluent by the common folk.<br /> Wiping the coffee off his face, he turned and walked away.<br /> "Where do you think you're going? Go fetch some more coffee," Madison shouted.<br /> "Madison, didn't you say this waste is obedient at home, doing whatever he's told? I don't think he's taking it lying down."<br /> Madison grew angrier. "Wesley, you stop right there. My family has fed and housed you. If you dare disobey, I'll have you thrown out!"<br /> Ignoring her, Wesley continued downstairs.<br /> "When Taylor comes back, I'll immediately have you two divorced. Do you hear me? Stay right there," Madison threatened, "I'll let you know your place today."<br /> Grabbing a golf club, Madison swiftly charged towards Wesley.<br /> Seeing Wesley heading downstairs, she swung the club viciously at his back.<br /> Without turning back, Wesley gently sidestepped.<br /> Losing her balance, Madison tumbled forward, rolling down the stairs with a series of thumps.<br /> "Ouch... it hurts, it hurts so much!"<br /> As Madison reached the ground floor, she wailed in pain and her sister immediately rushed to her.<br /> "Wesley, what have you done? How dare you hit my sister!" Madison's sister hurried down, checking on Madison's condition.<br /> Wesley remained silent, observing the scene.<br /> "Quick, call Taylor. Tell her to come back. Today, she must divorce this waste." Madison glared at Wesley. "How dare you hit me? Not only will I let Taylor divorce you, but I'll make sure you leave in disgrace."<br /> "Mum, what's wrong?" At that moment, a gent and a lady walked in.<br /> The lady was Taylor, Madison's daughter.<br /> She ran towards Madison.<br /> As Madison pointed at Wesley, tears streamed down her face. "Taylor, he hit me, he hit me! When you're not home, he changes his attitude, scolding and hitting me in the slightest displeasure. He even pushed me down the stairs just now. Alexis can testify."<br /> Madison's sister, Alexis Blair, chimed in. "Yes, Wesley, this trash not only hit your mother but also threatened to hit me too. We cannot tolerate such trash."<br /> "Taylor, I have been telling you to divorce him for years. You've been supporting him, treating him like a Lord at home, but he's an ungrateful wolf in sheep's clothing."<br /> Helping Madison up, Taylor noticed the scrapes on Madison's arms and legs, her expression turning cold.<br /> "Wesley, why did you hit my mother? You better give me an explanation."<br /> Wesley looked at Taylor, his wife.<br /> Five years had passed, and she had never shown him kindness.<br /> Taylor dressed impeccably, a paragon of a successful lady, with a face that could be deemed angelic, yet whether her heart was as angelic remained a mystery.<br /> Her figure, too, left countless men yearning.<br /> For five years, Wesley had thought he might develop feelings for this lady, but in reality, it never happened.<br /> "There are surveillance cameras in the house," Wesley stated calmly before descending the stairs into the hallway.<br /> Despite residing in a three-story villa, Wesley's living quarters were confined to the stairwell.<br /> He harbored no resentment towards this arrangement. It was merely a promise. It was just that Taylor failed to appreciate him.<br /> This home held little value that he wished to cling onto.<br /> Retrieving a wooden box from beneath his pillow, Wesley extracted two documents. Casting a fleeting glance at the modest abode he had called home for five years, Wesley smiled faintly.<br /> He thought, "Finally... I'm free."<br /> Pushing the door ajar, Wesley was met by Taylor's piercing gaze. "I've reviewed the surveillance footage. Yes, my mother intended to strike you, but even if she did, what difference would it make?"<br /> "She's a lady. How much could her blows hurt you? Why did you dodge?"<br /> "If you hadn't dodged, my mother wouldn't have tumbled down." Wesley stared at Taylor, unable to comprehend her thought process.<br /> He had no interest in engaging in these arguments. Handing over the two documents to Taylor, he remarked, "The divorce agreement. I've already signed it. Take a look. I'm leaving with nothing."<br /> "With your current influence, there's no need for you to visit the city hall. Someone will handle it for you, right?"<br /> Madison was taken aback. She swiftly snatched the divorce agreement, flipping through it hastily.<br /> The contents were indeed straightforward. Both parties willingly divorced, with Wesley relinquishing all claims and having already signed.<br /> In an instant, Madison's pain seemed to dissipate. "Taylor, sign it quickly. Sign it."<br /> Taylor was still in a daze.<br /> She pondered.<br /> "A divorce agreement? Wesley has already prepared a divorce agreement. On what grounds?"<br /> "What gives him the right to initiate a divorce? All these years, he's done nothing at home, lacking any ambition. Always practicing martial arts, what right does he have to seek a divorce?"<br /> "If anyone should initiate it, it should be me. Moreover, now that I'm back to discussing this matter with him. Could it be that word got out, and Wesley, for the sake of his pride, rushed to prepare a divorce agreement first?"<br /> "It must be so, but... No!"<br /> "Wanting to leave with nothing, is he retreating to advance? As the chairman of the Reed Group, how could I be served with a divorce?"<br /> "Hey Wesley, I never expected this from you. Have I not treated you well enough? You seek a divorce, attempting to turn your retreat into advance, aiming to embarrass me?"<br /> Taylor glared at Wesley. "I'm telling you, it's impossible."<br /> Snatching the divorce agreement, she tore it to shreds.<br /> "Taylor, what are you doing? Such a great opportunity. Why not just sign it and let him leave?" Madison grew anxious.<br /> "Mom, I do intend to divorce this trash, but the decision must come from me. I returned specifically to address this matter."<br /> With that, Taylor produced two documents. "Wesley, remember that it's me who's divorcing you. It's me who no longer wants you. Initially, out of marital obligation, I had considered offering you some compensation. Now, you don't even need to think about it. Sign the divorce agreement and leave my home."<br /> Wesley offered a faint smile as he accepted the divorce agreement.<br /> "What are you laughing at?" Taylor demanded angrily.<br /> Wesley's smile seemed to mock her, fueling her rage.<br /> Ignoring her entirely, Wesley signed the document and handed it over.<br /> "What are you laughing at? Answer me! Who do you think you are?" Taylor roared once more.<br /> Wesley glanced at her before striding towards the exit.<br /> "Stop!" The gent who had accompanied Taylor stepped forward, blocking Wesley's path. "Taylor asked you a question, and... Your previous attitude displeased me. Apologize to Taylor, or I'll have you leave in disgrace!"<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 <br /> "Yes, let him leave in disgrace. He thought he could just hit me and walk away so easily," Madison joined in the commotion, also noticing the gent blocking Wesley's path.<br /> Madison had a keen interest in luxury goods, having frequented various high-end establishments over the years as the Reed family's living conditions improved. The gent was wearing an expensive watch and dressed head to toe in high-end luxury brands.<br /> Seeing Madison's gaze, the gent spoke. "Rest assured, today Wesley must pay the price."<br /> The gent introduced himself, looking at Wesley, "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Henry Clark, the eldest son of the Clark family and the general manager of the Clark Group in the North District."<br /> "From now on, I will accompany Taylor on her journey of life, and I will not allow anyone to bully her."<br /> "My identity carries weight. You should understand that. Now, apologize to Taylor. Apologize! Did you hear me? Apologize!"<br /> Madison's eyes lit up. She hadn't expected the gent before her to hold such a high status. She continued to shout, "Did you hear that? Taylor will be with Mr. Clark from now on. Apologize now."<br /> Wesley glanced at Henry, then at Taylor. He thought, "Have they been together all along?" Wesley had wanted to ask but decided against it because there was no need. He simply gave them a glance and continued walking towards the exit.<br /> "Are you ignoring me?" Henry's face turned cold as he reached out to grab Wesley. Henry's hand froze mid-air as he received a solid hit.<br /> "Until I sign the divorce papers, Taylor and I are still wife and husband. I don't care to investigate whether you two had any intimate relationship during that time, but don't provoke me, or I won't hesitate to make you regret it." Wesley's gaze was icy, and as Henry met his eyes, he felt a twinge of fear and swallowed his words.<br /> Taylor was also stunned. She knew exactly what Wesley had been like over the past five years. There were many surveillance cameras in the house, and she would often check them.<br /> Even when Taylor wasn't home, despite how her family treated Wesley, he always obeyed without complaint, especially towards her. He had never raised his voice, no matter how they treated him.<br /> Today, not only did Wesley dodge when her mother struck, but he also initiated the divorce and now even struck Henry. <br /> Taylor was at a loss for words, thinking, "How could this cowardly gent dare? On what grounds does he dare?"<br /> This change was difficult for Taylor to accept as if she didn't truly understand this guy. The gent who used to be obedient to her, completely submissive, now revealed this side of himself. She watched Wesley walk away in a daze, feeling a strange discomfort in her heart.<br /> "Isn't he leaving with nothing?" Alexis pointed at the wooden box Wesley was holding. "What is he taking with him?"<br /> Madison also realized. Over the past five years, Wesley had always treasured this wooden box, carrying it with him wherever he went. She thought there must be something valuable inside.<br /> Realizing this, Madison hurriedly followed. "Wesley, stop right there, leave the wooden box."<br /> Wesley paused, glanced at Madison, and said, "This is my personal belonging."<br /> "Nonsense, what personal belonging could you possibly have after marrying into the Reed family? Everything you've eaten, worn, and lived in over the years has been provided by the Reed family. Put it down."<br /> As she spoke, Madison reached out to grab the wooden box.<br /> "Ah..." A scream rang out as Madison quickly retracted her hand, a gash appearing on her palm, a crimson liquid dripping.<br /> The wooden box was now stained with the same crimson liquid, trembling lightly in Wesley's hand.<br /> "It's not the right time yet, the day you thirst for this crimson liquid will come," Wesley murmured softly, patting the box before turning to continue his stride towards the exit.<br /> "Monster! A monster!" Madison screamed, causing Taylor and the others to rush out. Seeing the wound in Madison's hand, Taylor was filled with rage.<br /> "Wesley, aren't you going to say something?" Wesley halted once more, contemplating before meeting Taylor's gaze.<br /> "Just stay out of my way from now on. Consider this a warning to you."<br /> "Taylor, that wooden box of his has a mechanism. It must hold something valuable! We can't let him take it with him," Madison, enduring the pain, reminded them.<br /> "Mom, your injury is important. We'll deal with him later. Let me take you to the hospital first." Taylor comforted Madison before calling out to the retreating Wesley.<br /> "Our marriage is over! Yet, you dared to hurt my mother! This won't be the end of it! I will make you regret it!" Ignoring her, Wesley continued walking out.<br /> "Rest assured, I promise he won't see the light of day tomorrow." Henry stepped forward to console. "Let's focus on getting your wound treated first."<br /> "I want him to regret ever existing in this world, to apologize to me in repentance," Madison roared.<br /> "Mom, trust me, I will make him do just that." Taylor looked at Madison with a mix of pity and determination. "Let's go to the hospital first."<br /> In the villa area, Wesley halted, his voice cold. "Get out."<br /> An elderly gent leaped down from a tree, appearing to be in his seventies, yet landing silently from a height of around ten feet.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, your father wants you to come home and take charge."<br /> "He stopped being my father five years ago. He's my enemy."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you misunderstood your father. He had his reasons back then. I swear in my life, once you know the truth, you will forgive him."<br /> "Huh!" Wesley smirked coldly, saying, "I nearly passed away back then. Is that also a misunderstanding?"<br /> The old gent pleaded, "Mr. Harrington, this situation is truly not as you perceive it."<br /> Wesley didn't engage further with the old guy. The events of that year were etched in his memory forever. He was the one who had been abandoned. If not for that incident, why would he have stayed with the Reed family for five years?<br /> Watching Wesley walk away, the old gent had tears silently streaming down his face. "Mr. Harrington, I truly... I truly can't bring myself to speak the truth, but you have misunderstood your father. He also bears burdens and endures pains beyond what an ordinary person can handle."<br /> As Wesley's figure disappeared, the old gent stood up, hesitated for a moment, then dialed a number on his phone.<br /> "Mr. Harrington is now divorced. I've given you the news firsthand. If your daughter is truly together with Mr. Harrington, you must fulfill the promise and let her persuade Mr. Harrington to come home."<br /> After hanging up, a middle-aged gent in a luxurious estate jumped up excitedly. Calming himself, he immediately made another call. "My dear, you're at Yeadeo, right?<br /> "Go find Wesley now. Don't mention the engagement for now. Use every means to get close to him, make him fall in love with you."<br /> "Dad, I don't have time."<br /> "No matter what you are busy with, you must go find Wesley now. No matter what reason you approach him, you must leave a good impression the first time."<br /> "Dad, I'm in trouble right now. If I don't handle it well, I might be good as gone. I have to deal with it immediately. I'm hanging up."<br /> Chapter 3 <br /> The middle-aged gent's voice lowered significantly. "Is there a big incident happening? You didn't tell me? What happened?"<br /> "Quinn Kingsley from Yeadeo, Mr. Kingsley, used our product and now has one foot on the grave. If something really happens to him..."<br /> "You mean Quinn, the uncontested leader of Yeadeo?"<br /> "Yes."<br /> "In that case, you should go find Wesley. Trust me, in this world, there is no problem that Wesley can't solve. As long as he's willing to help, you'll be fine. Listen to me, go find Wesley immediately."<br /> The lady fell silent for a moment before saying, "Okay."<br /> At Yeadeo Harbor, a gent with a large flaxen chain and a watch, sporting a crew cut, hurriedly disembarked, accompanied by a dozen gentlemen.<br /> "Mr. Reed, wherever that trash is, we will find him and tear him apart."<br /> "Yes, that guy dared to harm your mother. We'll make sure he pays for it."<br /> Frank Reed's face turned cold. "Wesley, you coward, thinking you can overturn the world? How dare you touch my mom? Just wait until I find you, you're finished."<br /> "We've found him. Wesley got into a taxi, and our boys followed him."<br /> "Let's go!" Frank waved his hand, leading dozens of men who boarded the car with harpoons, steel pipes, and other weapons.<br /> Inside the taxi, Wesley gazed at the scenery outside, feeling a strange sense of tranquility.<br /> He thought to himself, "I never imagined that while I was secretly paving the way for the Reed family, Taylor, after progressing so rapidly, would start looking down on me more and more."<br /> "Those ladies who know my true identity, which one of them isn't trying to throw themselves at me? Ladies like that don't interest me."<br /> "Being an ordinary gent is truly difficult," Wesley murmured, smiling faintly and deciding not to dwell on these matters anymore. He had important things to attend to and no time to waste on personal affairs.<br /> "Young lad, are you going to Feidgeuo Manor for a job interview?" The driver, curious about Wesley's destination, inquired.<br /> Feidgeuo Manor was Yeadeo's most mysterious private area. Originally a villa area, it was bought at a huge cost five years ago and completely renovated. It was said to have cost a trillion dollars. The former villa area was now Feidgeuo Manor.<br /> "That's my home," Wesley replied nonchalantly.<br /> The driver was taken aback by this revelation, silently cursing Wesley for bragging. After a couple of minutes, the driver regained his composure. "It seems like you and I both prefer to keep a low profile. My car usually gathers dust at home, so I occasionally drive a taxi to experience life."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "My car has been driven by my assistant for the past few years, so it's not gathering dust."<br /> "Haha..." The driver laughed. "We should get together sometime and see whose car is more impressive."<br /> "Sure, whenever we have the time."<br /> As they chatted, the vehicle soon arrived near Feidgeuo Manor, where the massive head of the Feidgeuo Peak protruded, creating a unique landscape in Yeadeo.<br /> The driver asked with a smile, "Since you're the owner here, it's fine if I drive in, right?"<br /> "Of course," Wesley replied.<br /> As soon as Wesley spoke, several cars caught up from behind.<br /> The cars surrounded the one Wesley was in, with the front vehicles braking to force the car to a stop.<br /> When numerous people descended from cars wielding harpoons and steel pipes, the driver's face paled.<br /> Frank and his group got out of the cars, instantly closing in, and without hesitation, started attacking, the steel pipes and harpoons thudding against the car.<br /> Frank's henchman yanked open the door of Wesley's car, poised to stab Wesley with a harpoon, but Wesley swiftly exited the vehicle.<br /> With a firm step on the ground, he launched a swift hit.<br /> A muffled sound echoed as the henchman was hit away.<br /> "What are you looking at?" Frank noticed his henchmen were all staring at him. "All of you, attack together and take him down!"<br /> As he commanded, the henchmen Frank brought with him surged forward.<br /> The taxi driver, trembling, took out his phone to call the police, but Frank glared at him. "I am Frank Reed from Yeadeo Harbor. If you dare, go ahead and make that call."<br /> Frank, leveraging his sister Taylor's status, had been causing trouble in Yeadeo Harbor, and no one dared to provoke him.<br /> Upon hearing Frank's name, the driver hastily put away his phone. "Mr. Reed, I'll just check the time, you guys continue."<br /> "Huh!" Frank snorted coldly, casting his gaze towards the surrounded Wesley.<br /> The sounds of thuds continued to ring out incessantly. Because Wesley was completely surrounded, Frank was unable to see the situation inside clearly, but he could imagine it. After all, in Frank's mind, the henchmen under his command were not to be trifled with.<br /> "Hit him hard for me!"<br /> Another muffled sound and a figure flew out. At that moment, Frank finally saw the situation clearly, and his face turned pale.<br /> Frank knew that Wesley liked to practice martial arts, but he had never expected Wesley to be this skilled. It wasn't Wesley who had been beaten, but his own men by Wesley alone.<br /> Frantically, Frank turned and ran to retrieve a crossbow from the car.<br /> "Clear the way." Frank bellowed, aiming the crossbow at Wesley.<br /> "You scumbag, you think you can fight? Move one more time, and I'll end your life! Surrender!"<br /> Wesley, holding a wooden box, stared at Frank. Ignoring the crossbow in his hand, Wesley said, "Tell your henchmen to back off, or you'll all see the light from above!"<br /> "You're really good at pretending to be tough." Frank took two steps forward. "See the light? Move a muscle and see if I can end your life or not! If you don't have the guts, apologize now!"<br /> Wesley turned his head and looked at the approaching cars, with two expensive ones in the lead, two more in the rear, and another one in the middle.<br /> "Keep acting tough, and I'll put a hole in your head." Frank spoke while glancing at the five cars. "What, looking for help?"<br /> "Let me tell you, those who ride in these cars are not the kind of weaklings like you who rely on connections. With me here, in Yeadeo's social hierarchy, even those who ride in such cars wouldn't dare meddle in this matter. And let me make it clear, without my sister, you're nothing."<br /> <br /> Chapter 4<br /> As Frank's words faded, the five cars came to a halt.<br /> A bodyguard opened the door of the one in the middle, revealing a dazzling pair of shining shoes catching everyone's eye.<br /> The shining shoe encased a beautiful foot. Above, the skirt's hem was adorned with lace.<br /> Then, like a fairy stepping out of a painting, she appeared before everyone's eyes.<br /> The lady was beautiful!<br /> Frank was mesmerized. Ever since the Reed family rose to prominence, he had been surrounded by ladies, but compared to the elegant lady before him, they were worlds apart.<br /> It wasn't just a difference in appearance but an incomparable gap in demeanor.<br /> The lady descending from the Maybach seemed like a celestial being untouched by mortal affairs.<br /> The embodiment of a fairy in the mundane world.<br /> She simply stood there after getting out of the car, perfectly embodying what it meant to be graceful and elegant.<br /> The lady glanced at Wesley, then at Frank.<br /> Frank grinned, saying, "May I have the honor of knowing the name of this esteemed lady? I am Frank..."<br /> The lady spoke calmly. "Disrespect Mr. Harrington, and you're done for."<br /> Her bodyguards, unfazed by Frank's crossbow, swiftly overwhelmed him, sending him crashing to the ground.<br /> The henchmen who had come with Frank, previously defeated by Wesley, now scrambled to their feet and fled in all directions.<br /> Who would dare provoke someone who could afford such a car?<br /> "My sister is Taylor Reed, the chairperson of Reed Group," Frank shouted, clutching his head.<br /> Ignoring him, one of the bodyguards dragged him to the roadside grass while another used a belt to tighten around Frank's neck, exerting pressure.<br /> "Enough, a lesson is all that's needed." Wesley spoke calmly, and only when the lady gestured did the bodyguards release Frank.<br /> Frank lay there, already unconscious.<br /> Wesley turned to the lady. "Who are you?"<br /> "I am Mia Roberts, the general manager of Vinver Business Alliance's Yeadeo branch." She looked at Wesley and continued, "Mr. Harrington, my father mentioned that you have miraculous healing skills and earnestly requested your assistance. A generous reward awaits."<br /> Wesley furrowed his brow slightly, thinking, "There are indeed people who recognize my abilities and status, yet I've rarely intervened in the past five years. Today, shortly after I divorced Taylor, she is here. Whose arrangement is this?"<br /> "Mr. Harrington, my father also mentioned that you are benevolent and has raised the banner of compassion among healers, serving as a role model and benchmark for all in the medical field."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "You have a way with words. Tell me the specifics."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, please get in the car first. I will explain in detail on the way."<br /> The phrase "compassionate healer" held significant weight for Wesley, who had saved countless lives from the brink of death.<br /> Without further ado, he got into the car.<br /> Inside, after Mia brewed coffee for Wesley, she began. "Vinver Business Alliance has a wide range of business operations, and I mainly oversee the health supplement sector, which has seen some success in recent years.<br /> "Recently, Quinn Kingsley started using our medicines, and now there's an accident."<br /> As she spoke, Mia kept her gaze fixed on Wesley.<br /> Quinn, the undisputed leader of Yeadeo, was a figure of immense influence.<br /> Upon hearing this name, Wesley showed no particular reaction. "If the city's leader faces issues with your products, it is indeed a concern. Let's go and see."<br /> With just a sentence, Wesley leaned back in his seat, closing his eyes to rest.<br /> Mia was secretly alarmed, thinking, "He knows who Quinn is, yet he seems indifferent. Who is this Wesley, really? No wonder Dad has instructed me to find a way to win his favor." Mia's inner resistance toward Wesley quietly shifted.<br /> Wesley had piqued her curiosity.<br /> As the vehicle was moving, Wesley's phone rang.<br /> Wesley opened his eyes and took out his phone to see Taylor calling.<br /> Pressing the answer button, he asked, "What's the matter?"<br /> On the other end of the line, Taylor, driving towards Feidgeuo Manor, had a grim expression.<br /> She thought, "Has Wesley ever spoken to me in such a cold tone before? Is he really this heartless right after our divorce?"<br /> Already furious, she snapped. "Wesley, do you even consider yourself a human being?<br /> "Today, not only did you lay hands on my mother, but you also had someone attack my brother. Do you not remember our past at all?"<br /> Wesley calmly replied, "Do we have a past to remember?"<br /> "You truly are a heartless scumbag, just as my mother said. You are an ungrateful and vicious person I raised for five years. Even a pet would wag its tail at me!"<br /> Taylor wanted to continue her tirade, but the phone line had already turned busy.<br /> This only fueled her anger further.<br /> Just now, she had received a call from Frank's underlings, informing her that Wesley had sent people to attack Frank and even intended to end him.<br /> Taylor wanted to demand answers, but...<br /> As Taylor was clutching her fists, her gaze turned icy.<br /> After a moment, she picked up her phone again. "Wesley, you are so narrow-minded. You have no ambition. Any lady would steer clear of you."<br /> "Just because I dumped you, you are doing this on purpose to make me feel sick. Pretending to be aloof and seeking revenge? Do you even deserve it?"<br /> "In Yeadeo, squashing you would be as easy as squashing an ant. You're asking for it! If anything happens to my brother, I will make you wish you were ending!"<br /> Her furious voice message echoed in the car.<br /> Wesley chuckled and put away his phone.<br /> Beside him, Mia seemed contemplative. Before coming, she had already ordered a swift investigation into Wesley.<br /> She was curious, thinking, "How could someone valued by my father could be the one 'marrying into' the Reed family."<br /> Being tactful, Mia chose not to ask and pretended not to have heard.<br /> After about forty minutes, they arrived at the Kingsley Manor.<br /> The Kingsley family members, upon seeing Mia alight from the car, all wore grim expressions.<br /> Mia greeted them with a smile, "Everyone, this is Wesley Harrington, Mr. Harrington, the miraculous healer I specially invited to treat Mr. Kingsley."<br /> "Him? The gent who married into the Reed family?"<br /> "A miraculous healer? Is he even worthy? Are healers so worthless now?"<br /> "A useless gent who mooches off of the Reed family? How dare he call himself a miraculous healer? Truly a joke among all jokes."<br /> Chapter 5<br /> <br /> Amanda Kingsley, Quinn's granddaughter, stared coldly at Wesley and Mia.<br /> This lady, dressed in a smart suit, also held significant fame in Yeadeo, overseeing the region's business activities, including investment attraction and various local business negotiations.<br /> Amanda had a favorable view of Taylor, who had risen swiftly in recent times, and they had interacted frequently.<br /> She was aware of Wesley's existence and had advised Taylor to part ways with him early on.<br /> But Amanda never imagined that Mia would bring someone like Wesley, a complete waste, and claim he was a miraculous healer.<br /> Glaring at Mia, she said, "Mia, once my grandfather is well, it's best for your Roberts family to leave Yeadeo."<br /> "As for you..." She glanced at Wesley. "I will advise Taylor to divorce you. You have deceived Taylor's feelings and now shamelessly made your way into my family. You are a despicable creature."<br /> After reprimanding Mia and Wesley, she turned to an elderly gent beside her, and her tone and attitude completely changed. "Mr. Phillips, sorry to trouble you. My grandfather is inside, please."<br /> Mia looked at the elderly gent, who was already in his twilight years, feeling deeply shocked.<br /> Scott Phillips, the 38th generation heir of the Healing Clinic, was now ninety-two years old.<br /> Renowned as a miraculous healer, he was a respected figure in the medical community of Yeadeo and even nationally.<br /> He no longer conducted consultations personally due to his old age. Mia had visited him specifically to pay her respects once she had arrived in Yeadeo but had not met Scott.<br /> She never expected Scott to appear in person. It was understandable, as Quinn held a prominent position in the city. Despite the profound influence of the Phillips family, they still had to show respect to Quinn.<br /> Mia looked at Wesley, feeling conflicted and thinking, "Dad has confidently claimed that Wesley has extraordinary abilities, but does he really?"<br /> She harbored doubts, but out of propriety, Mia spoke. "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the trouble."<br /> Wesley smiled, "It's fine. As long as the person can be healed."<br /> His open-mindedness impressed Mia.<br /> After about half an hour, Amanda emerged from the room. All eyes instantly turned towards her.<br /> It was evident that Amanda had wailed out, with traces of tears still visible.<br /> "Amanda, how is it?" A middle-aged gent anxiously asked her.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family who had rushed back also focused their attention on her.<br /> "Mr. Phillips said that there's little hope of recovery. He could only use acupuncture to wake grandfather for half an hour. When grandfather wakes up, let's all go in and see if he has any final instructions."<br /> Everyone was shocked.<br /> "How could this be?"<br /> "Is Mr. Phillips also helpless?"<br /> The members of the Kingsley family found it hard to accept this reality, especially since Quinn had always treated his juniors well.<br /> The thought of Quinn departing saddened some, and tears silently fell.<br /> Publicly, Quinn's status was the foundation of the Kingsley family's prominence in Yeadeo.<br /> If Quinn were to pass away, the Kingsley family would undoubtedly decline.<br /> The atmosphere within the Kingsley family was somber.<br /> Amanda looked at her family members, opened her mouth, but said nothing, silently turning back into the room.<br /> "Stop crying," A middle-aged gent said sternly, "Dad wouldn't want to see you all in tears. If he's really leaving, we mustn't let him worry about us. Pull yourselves together."<br /> After these words, the middle-aged gent also entered the room.<br /> The younger members of the Kingsley family wiped their tears vigorously, trying to force smiles, but in truth, they looked better at crying than pretending to be happy.<br /> Mia's spirit plummeted as she realized the gravity of the situation. Even if an ordinary person passed away from consuming health supplements, it spelled big trouble for those who sold them. And when the deceased happened to be Quinn, the stakes were even higher.<br /> She understood that it would be difficult for this branch to stay in Yeadeo, and even the headquarters might face repercussions.<br /> "Let's go in and have a look." Wesley glanced at Mia. "There might still be a chance."<br /> "Ah..." Mia stared at Wesley in surprise. Seeing him already heading towards the room, she quickly followed suit.<br /> Inside the room, the members of the Kingsley family stood around the mattress, maintaining a certain distance.<br /> Scott lit the alcohol lamp and took out the needles, his expression solemn.<br /> He looked at the members of the Kingsley family. "Think about what you want to say to Mr. Kingsley later. Once you're ready, let me know, and then I'll proceed with the acupuncture."<br /> As he said this, tears welled up in many eyes.<br /> "If you don't mind, let me take a look. I have a way." Wesley spoke up, drawing everyone's attention.<br /> Amanda's face darkened. "Who let you in? Get out!"<br /> "Mia, have you lost your mind? Tricked by this trash and actually brought him here as a miracle healer. Get out with him! I'll settle the score with you in a couple of days."<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, at a loss for words.<br /> "Even Mr. Phillips is unable to reverse the situation. What use are you? Get out." Another younger member of the Kingsley family angrily rebuked.<br /> The middle-aged gent added, "We're in no mood right now. You better leave immediately."<br /> "I understand your narrow-mindedness," Wesley continued, "But as a healer, once I see a patient, I cannot stand by and watch him draw his last breath."<br /> "Wesley, you're quite the charlatan. Do you really want to be gone right now?" Amanda's voice was filled with anger.<br /> "Amanda, let me say a few words," Scott interjected, and Amanda fell silent.<br /> Looking at Wesley, Scott began. "Young lad, at my age, I've seen a lot and have a broad perspective. Today, however, I find it hard to remain indifferent. I practiced medicine from the age of sixteen until I stopped seeing patients for a total of seventy years."<br /> "I've saved countless patients from various illnesses. I never easily declare a patient's fate, nor do I believe I have the right to do so."<br /> "But from your recent remarks, it seems like you're accusing me of such actions. Young people wanting to make a name for themselves by stepping on the shoulders of their predecessors, I can understand."<br /> "But this kind of behavior displeases me."<br /> "My displeasure, what does it mean to you? Do you understand?"<br /> "Even if you are a healer, your career will be ruined because of this."<br /> Chapter 6 <br /> In the face of Scott's veiled threats, Wesley simply smiled and brushed them off.<br /> Looking at Scott, he asked, "I've always focused on the issue at hand rather than attacking individuals. I have a few questions for you. If you can't administer the needles, how long do you think Quinn can hold on?"<br /> "Seven days, but he will remain unconscious," Scott replied bluntly.<br /> "Then let me ask you this, is there anyone in the world with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "Outrageous," Amanda coldly interjected, "Mr. Phillips is unparalleled in his medical expertise."<br /> Scott glanced at Amanda. "Amanda, let me handle this question."<br /> Continuing to address Wesley, he said, "I don't underestimate myself, nor do I overestimate. There are countless talented individuals in the world, like stars in the sky. I may not dare claim to be the best in medical skills, but those who surpass me are few."<br /> "That means there are some," Wesley calmly remarked, causing Scott's expression to shift slightly, "Indeed, there are."<br /> "Then let me ask you this. Do you think within seven days, the Kingsley family won't find someone with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "If they do find someone, do you believe there is an illness that you cannot cure, but this person can?"<br /> Wesley's questions were sharp and resounding.<br /> Scott's face changed once more as he was rendered speechless.<br /> "Even if there is, that person will never be you." Amanda's face turned icy. "Now get out. Don't spout your eloquence here. Your deceitful behavior is repulsive."<br /> "Your understanding of me is merely hearsay, isn't it?" Wesley retorted, his gaze mocking Amanda, "Has your background and education taught you such arrogance and prejudice?"<br /> "Arrogance?" Amanda's face grew colder as she disdainfully looked at Wesley. "Prejudice?<br /> "Did I say something wrong just now? You are nothing but stagnant waste, a parasite living off others. If it weren't for Taylor, you would have starved on the streets long ago."<br /> "Relying on sweet words, deceiving Taylor. She, with her kind heart, can't bear to divorce you, but don't push your luck. If it weren't for Taylor's sake, you would have been sent out long ago."<br /> Scott interrupted Amanda, "Amanda, although I find this lad a bit annoying, what he said does hold some truth. There are indeed individuals with better medical skills than me. Your grandfather can hold on for seven days. Try reaching out to see if someone can come over. I'll help you make connections."<br /> "If it really doesn't work out after seven days, I'll administer the needles to your grandfather. However, at that point, I can only buy you three minutes."<br /> As soon as Scott spoke, the faces of the Kingsley family members grew even more solemn. True healers were rare and not easily summoned.<br /> While the Kingsley family had connections in Yeadeo, their influence waned outside of it.<br /> "Mr. Phillips, please administer the needles. Life has its ups and downs, and we understand that. Just buy my father a bit more time." The middle-aged gent spoke up.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family nodded in agreement.<br /> Amanda looked at Scott. "Mr. Phillips, please."<br /> "In that case, please have everyone unrelated leave. I need silence," Scott calmly stated.<br /> Amanda glared at Wesley, her eyes speaking volumes without a word.<br /> The unrelated individuals were, naturally, Wesley and Mia.<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, intending to leave, but she suddenly hesitated.<br /> Instead of leaving, Wesley moved forward.<br /> "What are you doing?" A young member of the Kingsley family stepped forward with a stern expression, pushing Wesley.<br /> In one swift motion, Wesley executed a clean shoulder throw, toppling the young gent to the ground, his own expression turning cold.<br /> "A bunch of fools! If it weren't for my teacher's teachings about not turning a blind eye to those in need, I wouldn't bother with you ignorant lot," Wesley remarked with disdain.<br /> As Wesley effortlessly took down one individual from the Kingsley family, the others seemed slow to react.<br /> By the time they realized what was happening, Wesley had already picked up the needle next to Scott and casually flicked his wrist.<br /> The needle flew out of his hand, piercing Quinn's temple, followed by a second needle, a third needle, and so on.<br /> "What are you doing? Stop!" Amanda's voice rose in urgency, echoed by the rest of the Kingsley family members who rushed forward to restrain Wesley.<br /> "Stay back, everyone. Wait." Scott suddenly stood up, blocking the others. "Let him try."<br /> Amanda and the others were left dumbfounded, thinking, "What does this mean?"<br /> Despite their confusion, they heeded Scott's words.<br /> After Scott stopped the members of the Kingsley family, he fixed his gaze on Wesley.<br /> Wesley proceeded to use eighteen needles in succession, symbolizing the levels of pain.<br /> Even if someone had descended into the depths of hell, they must be brought back.<br /> The final needle, also piercing a vital point, caused Quinn's body to tremble suddenly, resonating with the previous eighteen needles.<br /> Scott's eyes widened, his body trembling slightly. His reaction left Amanda and the others even more puzzled, but none dared to interrupt.<br /> Moments later, Wesley placed a palm on Quinn's chest, causing all eighteen needles to be shaken off. When all the needles landed on the ground, the part of the skin where the needles had pierced turned dark.<br /> Wesley then dragged Quinn to the edge of the mattress, flipped him over with his head facing downwards, and gave him a firm pat on the back.<br /> Quinn spat out a mouthful of black liquid. When Wesley flipped him back to lie flat, his complexion had regained some color.<br /> "The Hand of Darkness... It's the Hand of Darkness!" Scott exclaimed with excitement, his body quivering, "It's the Hand that descends into the dark world, snatching people from the hands of the Evil!"<br /> "You do have some knowledge, recognizing the Hand of Darkness." Wesley glanced at Scott.<br /> Scott's gaze towards Wesley had undergone a drastic change. He respectfully clasped his hands together.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thirty years ago, I had the honor of attending a teaching conference held by Mr. Vanderbilt. I saw the Hand of Darkness, but my limited aptitude only allowed me to grasp the basics."<br /> "I have been blind and ignorant. I apologize for my earlier offenses. Please forgive me, Mr. Harrington."<br /> The Mr. Vanderbilt Scott referred to was Wesley's teacher, Ulysses Vanderbilt. He generously imparted his skills to others, but the ability to learn depended on one's innate talent.<br /> In this world, few could learn Ulysses' skills.<br /> Scott had been fortunate to receive guidance from Ulysses, which had elevated his medical skills. However, the Hand of Darkness, a miraculous ability, was beyond his comprehension.<br /> Wesley smiled faintly, "Your actions earlier are understandable. I appreciate your words."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you must be an exceptional disciple of Mr. Vanderbilt, possessing unparalleled magnanimity. Impressive," Scott continued.<br /> "Enough with the flattery at your age."<br /> "You are mistaken, Mr. Harrington. Every word I speak is sincere."<br /> Mia, Amanda, and the others stood bewildered by the unfolding situation.<br /> "Mr. Phillips... he... he..." Amanda's words faltered.<br /> Scott turned to the members of the Kingsley family. "Meeting Mr. Harrington was Quinn's luck. His symptoms have been cured by Mr. Harrington. With a few days of rest, he will be fine."<br /> The waste Taylor had previously said was called Mr. Harrington by Scott!<br /> Recalling their previous attitudes, Amanda hurriedly apologized, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> The members of the Kingsley family all apologized in unison, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> Chapter 7 <br /> With a faint smile, Wesley remarked, "As family members of a patient, your actions earlier are understandable. There's no need for such formality."<br /> Amanda's perplexity deepened as she thought, "Where is the cowardly waste that Taylor described? This display of magnanimity and breadth is far from it."<br /> Mia, too, felt a shiver of realization, thinking, "No wonder Dad has insisted on my proximity to Wesley.<br /> This guy..."<br /> She gazed at Wesley, her curiosity piqued, a sense of exploration stirring within her.<br /> "Mia has brought you here, Mr. Harrington, to cure my grandfather. The Kingsley family will never forget this act. However, considering that my grandfather's ailment stemmed from the health supplements produced by the Vinver Business Alliance, we will be conducting an investigation into it."<br /> Amanda continued, looking at Wesley, "What do you think... of this approach?"<br /> It was Mia who had invited Wesley, so Amanda had grown wiser, refraining from asking for a direct punishment of the Vinver Business Alliance.<br /> As Mia heard Amanda's words, her heart skipped a beat, realizing trouble was brewing.<br /> "On the way here, Ms. Roberts briefed me on the situation. You conducted experiments on mice, correct?"<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes, the health supplements we received were exclusively provided by the Roberts family. There were no similar cases on the market, so we used mice for testing.<br /> "All the mice that ingested this supplement were gone."<br /> She looked at Mia and added, her voice turning colder, "Before the experiment, I specifically contacted Mia to inquire about the testing methods during the development phase, which involved mice.<br /> "There have been individuals eyeing my grandfather's position, some even wishing for his demise. I never imagined that the Vinver Business Alliance, which I attracted for investment, would become a weapon in someone else's hands."<br /> "Do you have any of the remaining medicine?" Wesley inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes."<br /> "Bring some over."<br /> Immediately, someone fetched the medicine. After it was brought to him, Wesley took out a supplement and swallowed it directly.<br /> This scene left Amanda and the others dumbfounded.<br /> Scott, too, was bewildered. "Mr. Harrington, what are you doing?"<br /> Wesley smiled, "Just proving that this medicine is not toxic."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thank you," Mia thanked sincerely, feeling like crying at that moment.<br /> Amanda, with a puzzled expression, looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, are you suggesting that my grandfather's condition wasn't caused by the Vinver Business Alliance's medicine? What about the mice?"<br /> The rest were equally puzzled.<br /> "Yes, but not entirely," Wesley said, leaving everyone even more bewildered.<br /> Mia's emotions were like a rollercoaster ride, from relief to immediate tension.<br /> "This medicine itself is not toxic, but when taken with another substance made from a certain plant, it results in Quinn's condition. The mice would die immediately, while humans could endure a few more days."<br /> Wesley continued to explain, "The plant used in this concoction is originally meant for crafting slow-acting toxins, not for human consumption."<br /> Looking at Amanda, Wesley said, "During this period, whoever had access to your grandfather and the mice will better understand why these events occurred."<br /> The gaze of members of the Kingsley family immediately focused on a lady.<br /> Amanda, somewhat incredulous, looked at her. "Can you offer an explanation?"<br /> The lady was the wife of Amanda's deceased brother. She found it hard to accept, as did the rest of the Kingsley family.<br /> This lady had been named the exemplary lady who served her family well this year, not due to her connection with the Kingsley family but because she genuinely deserved it.<br /> "What do you mean? Amanda, what explanation do you want from me?"<br /> The lady stared at Amanda. "Am I the only one who had access to Grandfather and the mice? You, and you... and you, who didn't have access?"<br /> "You all claim to treat me as family. Since I married into the Kingsley family, I have worked diligently, contributing my share even if not acknowledged."<br /> "Amanda, it has been over a year since your brother passed, and I never once considered remarrying. Now, just because of his words, you demand an explanation from me?"<br /> Pointing at Wesley, the lady questioned, "Just because he accuses me of poisoning, you suspect me? Tell me, did I poison him?" The lady glared at Wesley.<br /> "I am merely analyzing the facts. As for concluding this case, it's not within my purview," Wesley addressed the members of the Kingsley family, saying, "You should conduct a thorough investigation into this matter.<br /> "I will write a prescription. Have Quinn take it on time, and he will recover in seven days."<br /> Amanda hurried to fetch paper and pen while Wesley prepared the prescription. Once done, he was ready to leave.<br /> Amanda said hurriedly, "Mr. Harrington, I've already made arrangements for lunch."<br /> "No need," Wesley smiled.<br /> The Kingsley family sought to build closer ties with Wesley, given his extraordinary medical skills. Wesley was well aware of this.<br /> Looking at Amanda and the others, Wesley remarked, "In the future, if you encounter any difficult medical cases that others cannot solve, seek me out. Remember, cases others cannot solve."<br /> The gaze of the Kingsley family members toward Wesley changed once again. Many renowned healers had eccentric personalities and were difficult to engage.<br /> They hadn't expected Wesley to possess such remarkable medical skills without any airs.<br /> As Wesley prepared to depart, the members of the Kingsley family did not dare to insist on his stay, so they accompanied him outside.<br /> "Oh, how could we forget such an important matter? Amanda, what about the consultation fee?" The middle-aged gent inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the oversight. Please wait a moment." Amanda hurried back inside and soon returned with a bank card in hand.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, there's one million dollars in here."<br /> Without hesitation, Wesley accepted the bank card and boarded Mia's car.<br /> During the journey, Mia boldly looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, you've helped me immensely. Can I treat you to a meal? Don't decline in a hurry. It's not a fancy restaurant, but it will leave you wanting more. It's a small place on the street, with only eight plates of noodles served each day, each plate containing different ingredients.<br /> "I managed to secure a reservation. Are you interested?"<br /> Wesley thought, "Eight Plates of Noodles? Ah, Aaron's restaurant. It has been a while since I visited those old friends."<br /> Wesley nodded. "Let's go then."<br /> The restaurant, Eight Plates of Noodles, was located on Chanxold Street near the Yeadeo First Central Hospital.<br /> The establishment was small, serving only eight plates of noodles each day at a price of 10 thousand dollars each. Vernoic's television culinary program had specifically covered this incident.<br /> Reservations were a must to secure a plate.<br /> The restaurant's owner had a mysterious background. While the specifics were unknown, a high-ranking noble from the capital of Vernoic, Kingsland, had caused a scene there once.<br /> He had attempted to force his way in without a reservation. Although this incident hadn't been reported, rumors suggested that a garbage truck had to be called to dispose of the intruder's remains, as he was too shattered to be removed by conventional means.<br /> Since then, no one dared to cause trouble.<br /> On their way, Mia introduced Wesley to the background story.<br /> "Mr. Turner, two plates of noodles." Mia called out once they arrived.<br /> Aaron Turner didn't respond but visibly paused upon seeing Wesley beside Mia.<br /> A faint smile appeared on his usually stoic face. Though the flesh on the face seemed stiff, it was indeed a smile. "Coming right up."<br /> Mia glanced at Aaron with a hint of surprise, thinking, "When did he become so warm and enthusiastic? His tone seemed a bit agitated earlier, didn't it?"<br /> Soon enough, Aaron brought two plates of noodles to the table. One steaming hot and the other devoid of any warmth.<br /> As Mia observed Aaron placing the plate without steam in front of Wesley, her expression changed slightly.<br /> It was a plate of instant noodles having soaked in cold water, with the seasoning barely dissolved.<br /> She felt a sense of panic. Mia had wanted to leave a good impression on Wesley, which was why she had chosen this place.<br /> However, Aaron had served such a plate of noodles.<br /> She dared not question Aaron. The type of noodles served here was not determined by the guests but by Aaron's mood.<br /> "This girl named Mia is quite something, living up to her name, and quite kind-hearted," Aaron remarked, looking at Wesley.<br /> "Get lost," Wesley retorted, using his fork to pick up the noodles and devouring them.<br /> Mia's face turned pale instantly. Disrespecting Aaron was akin to risking Wesley's life.<br /> To her astonishment, Aaron chuckled, tears welling up in his eyes.<br /> He wiped them away. "Alright, I'll leave you to your meal."<br /> Before departing, he gave Mia a thumbs-up. "Seize the opportunity."<br /> The eight plates of noodles symbolized the eight comrades who had faced life and life-threatening situations together.<br /> Wesley ate voraciously. Initially, they had only one pack of instant noodles to share among the eight of them, forcing them to divide it.<br /> Despite the circumstances, they devoured the noodles joyfully.<br /> Aaron had promised that once they survived, each one would have the most delicious plate of noodles.<br /> However, five of the eight had perished.<br /> Wesley had come dangerously close to life-threatening situations, but managed to cling to life.<br /> For him, the plate of noodles was not food but the bond of friendship that had shielded him from harm.<br /> "Do you... know each other?" Mia couldn't help but ask, her voice low and curious.<br /> "Some things are better left unknown," Wesley replied.<br /> Mia nodded in understanding, falling silent as they continued eating noodles. She couldn't help stealing glances at Wesley throughout the meal.<br /> This gent had piqued her curiosity even more.<br /> "Wesley, I see. No wonder you agreed to the divorce so readily. You've already found someone else outside."<br /> A sharp voice interrupted their meal.<br /> Taylor approached with a cold expression, accompanied by Henry. | Adoread Romance story | 106 | https://facebook.com/61557113391558 | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1713250800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846721 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446608 | 1735168082 | 890 | 1072122077206276 | 1 | 3.6487800984632E+14 | 1713942000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 235254296344339 | 0 | Adoread Romance story | 120207848363020113 | play.google.com | Install now | NONE | video | HOT BOOK✨Tap the button to read more👉 | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.adoread.book | 1713261160 | 2.3525429634434E+14 | Adoread Romance story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438686192_1599951320770608_7951593487858409411_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=INe41Hg7vEsQ7kNvgFhuTwt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD2U5nYhV4ETFTAN-CasY4b90ghChzYDaXCIkASOS1ozw&oe=666400C7 | person_profile | 0 | Adoread Romance story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437798386_1823524004818856_3808496385301976881_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kwIsQfqIwksQ7kNvgFE26zE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBVNIqGVpBZQ0alwrOdtwrC3_JWxAKzNBSnoRRaxJrTWQ&oe=6663DE9D | 0 | 3 | Chapter 1 <br /> "Wesley, are you trying to harm me? You useless piece of trash, can't even make a decent cup of coffee, can you?"<br /> Madison Blair lifted her coffee cup and splashed it directly onto Wesley Harrington's face.<br /> "What are you looking at, you spineless waste? Your name sounds so lofty? I might as well call you a waste."<br /> Glancing at the grotesque expression of his wife's mother, Wesley pulled out his phone to check the time.<br /> Exactly twelve o'clock. It had been five full years since he married Taylor Reed.<br /> The appointed time had come.<br /> He had fulfilled his promise, safeguarding the Reed family for five years, transforming them from a family living off fishing to one perceived as affluent by the common folk.<br /> Wiping the coffee off his face, he turned and walked away.<br /> "Where do you think you're going? Go fetch some more coffee," Madison shouted.<br /> "Madison, didn't you say this waste is obedient at home, doing whatever he's told? I don't think he's taking it lying down."<br /> Madison grew angrier. "Wesley, you stop right there. My family has fed and housed you. If you dare disobey, I'll have you thrown out!"<br /> Ignoring her, Wesley continued downstairs.<br /> "When Taylor comes back, I'll immediately have you two divorced. Do you hear me? Stay right there," Madison threatened, "I'll let you know your place today."<br /> Grabbing a golf club, Madison swiftly charged towards Wesley.<br /> Seeing Wesley heading downstairs, she swung the club viciously at his back.<br /> Without turning back, Wesley gently sidestepped.<br /> Losing her balance, Madison tumbled forward, rolling down the stairs with a series of thumps.<br /> "Ouch... it hurts, it hurts so much!"<br /> As Madison reached the ground floor, she wailed in pain and her sister immediately rushed to her.<br /> "Wesley, what have you done? How dare you hit my sister!" Madison's sister hurried down, checking on Madison's condition.<br /> Wesley remained silent, observing the scene.<br /> "Quick, call Taylor. Tell her to come back. Today, she must divorce this waste." Madison glared at Wesley. "How dare you hit me? Not only will I let Taylor divorce you, but I'll make sure you leave in disgrace."<br /> "Mum, what's wrong?" At that moment, a gent and a lady walked in.<br /> The lady was Taylor, Madison's daughter.<br /> She ran towards Madison.<br /> As Madison pointed at Wesley, tears streamed down her face. "Taylor, he hit me, he hit me! When you're not home, he changes his attitude, scolding and hitting me in the slightest displeasure. He even pushed me down the stairs just now. Alexis can testify."<br /> Madison's sister, Alexis Blair, chimed in. "Yes, Wesley, this trash not only hit your mother but also threatened to hit me too. We cannot tolerate such trash."<br /> "Taylor, I have been telling you to divorce him for years. You've been supporting him, treating him like a Lord at home, but he's an ungrateful wolf in sheep's clothing."<br /> Helping Madison up, Taylor noticed the scrapes on Madison's arms and legs, her expression turning cold.<br /> "Wesley, why did you hit my mother? You better give me an explanation."<br /> Wesley looked at Taylor, his wife.<br /> Five years had passed, and she had never shown him kindness.<br /> Taylor dressed impeccably, a paragon of a successful lady, with a face that could be deemed angelic, yet whether her heart was as angelic remained a mystery.<br /> Her figure, too, left countless men yearning.<br /> For five years, Wesley had thought he might develop feelings for this lady, but in reality, it never happened.<br /> "There are surveillance cameras in the house," Wesley stated calmly before descending the stairs into the hallway.<br /> Despite residing in a three-story villa, Wesley's living quarters were confined to the stairwell.<br /> He harbored no resentment towards this arrangement. It was merely a promise. It was just that Taylor failed to appreciate him.<br /> This home held little value that he wished to cling onto.<br /> Retrieving a wooden box from beneath his pillow, Wesley extracted two documents. Casting a fleeting glance at the modest abode he had called home for five years, Wesley smiled faintly.<br /> He thought, "Finally... I'm free."<br /> Pushing the door ajar, Wesley was met by Taylor's piercing gaze. "I've reviewed the surveillance footage. Yes, my mother intended to strike you, but even if she did, what difference would it make?"<br /> "She's a lady. How much could her blows hurt you? Why did you dodge?"<br /> "If you hadn't dodged, my mother wouldn't have tumbled down." Wesley stared at Taylor, unable to comprehend her thought process.<br /> He had no interest in engaging in these arguments. Handing over the two documents to Taylor, he remarked, "The divorce agreement. I've already signed it. Take a look. I'm leaving with nothing."<br /> "With your current influence, there's no need for you to visit the city hall. Someone will handle it for you, right?"<br /> Madison was taken aback. She swiftly snatched the divorce agreement, flipping through it hastily.<br /> The contents were indeed straightforward. Both parties willingly divorced, with Wesley relinquishing all claims and having already signed.<br /> In an instant, Madison's pain seemed to dissipate. "Taylor, sign it quickly. Sign it."<br /> Taylor was still in a daze.<br /> She pondered.<br /> "A divorce agreement? Wesley has already prepared a divorce agreement. On what grounds?"<br /> "What gives him the right to initiate a divorce? All these years, he's done nothing at home, lacking any ambition. Always practicing martial arts, what right does he have to seek a divorce?"<br /> "If anyone should initiate it, it should be me. Moreover, now that I'm back to discussing this matter with him. Could it be that word got out, and Wesley, for the sake of his pride, rushed to prepare a divorce agreement first?"<br /> "It must be so, but... No!"<br /> "Wanting to leave with nothing, is he retreating to advance? As the chairman of the Reed Group, how could I be served with a divorce?"<br /> "Hey Wesley, I never expected this from you. Have I not treated you well enough? You seek a divorce, attempting to turn your retreat into advance, aiming to embarrass me?"<br /> Taylor glared at Wesley. "I'm telling you, it's impossible."<br /> Snatching the divorce agreement, she tore it to shreds.<br /> "Taylor, what are you doing? Such a great opportunity. Why not just sign it and let him leave?" Madison grew anxious.<br /> "Mom, I do intend to divorce this trash, but the decision must come from me. I returned specifically to address this matter."<br /> With that, Taylor produced two documents. "Wesley, remember that it's me who's divorcing you. It's me who no longer wants you. Initially, out of marital obligation, I had considered offering you some compensation. Now, you don't even need to think about it. Sign the divorce agreement and leave my home."<br /> Wesley offered a faint smile as he accepted the divorce agreement.<br /> "What are you laughing at?" Taylor demanded angrily.<br /> Wesley's smile seemed to mock her, fueling her rage.<br /> Ignoring her entirely, Wesley signed the document and handed it over.<br /> "What are you laughing at? Answer me! Who do you think you are?" Taylor roared once more.<br /> Wesley glanced at her before striding towards the exit.<br /> "Stop!" The gent who had accompanied Taylor stepped forward, blocking Wesley's path. "Taylor asked you a question, and... Your previous attitude displeased me. Apologize to Taylor, or I'll have you leave in disgrace!"<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 <br /> "Yes, let him leave in disgrace. He thought he could just hit me and walk away so easily," Madison joined in the commotion, also noticing the gent blocking Wesley's path.<br /> Madison had a keen interest in luxury goods, having frequented various high-end establishments over the years as the Reed family's living conditions improved. The gent was wearing an expensive watch and dressed head to toe in high-end luxury brands.<br /> Seeing Madison's gaze, the gent spoke. "Rest assured, today Wesley must pay the price."<br /> The gent introduced himself, looking at Wesley, "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Henry Clark, the eldest son of the Clark family and the general manager of the Clark Group in the North District."<br /> "From now on, I will accompany Taylor on her journey of life, and I will not allow anyone to bully her."<br /> "My identity carries weight. You should understand that. Now, apologize to Taylor. Apologize! Did you hear me? Apologize!"<br /> Madison's eyes lit up. She hadn't expected the gent before her to hold such a high status. She continued to shout, "Did you hear that? Taylor will be with Mr. Clark from now on. Apologize now."<br /> Wesley glanced at Henry, then at Taylor. He thought, "Have they been together all along?" Wesley had wanted to ask but decided against it because there was no need. He simply gave them a glance and continued walking towards the exit.<br /> "Are you ignoring me?" Henry's face turned cold as he reached out to grab Wesley. Henry's hand froze mid-air as he received a solid hit.<br /> "Until I sign the divorce papers, Taylor and I are still wife and husband. I don't care to investigate whether you two had any intimate relationship during that time, but don't provoke me, or I won't hesitate to make you regret it." Wesley's gaze was icy, and as Henry met his eyes, he felt a twinge of fear and swallowed his words.<br /> Taylor was also stunned. She knew exactly what Wesley had been like over the past five years. There were many surveillance cameras in the house, and she would often check them.<br /> Even when Taylor wasn't home, despite how her family treated Wesley, he always obeyed without complaint, especially towards her. He had never raised his voice, no matter how they treated him.<br /> Today, not only did Wesley dodge when her mother struck, but he also initiated the divorce and now even struck Henry. <br /> Taylor was at a loss for words, thinking, "How could this cowardly gent dare? On what grounds does he dare?"<br /> This change was difficult for Taylor to accept as if she didn't truly understand this guy. The gent who used to be obedient to her, completely submissive, now revealed this side of himself. She watched Wesley walk away in a daze, feeling a strange discomfort in her heart.<br /> "Isn't he leaving with nothing?" Alexis pointed at the wooden box Wesley was holding. "What is he taking with him?"<br /> Madison also realized. Over the past five years, Wesley had always treasured this wooden box, carrying it with him wherever he went. She thought there must be something valuable inside.<br /> Realizing this, Madison hurriedly followed. "Wesley, stop right there, leave the wooden box."<br /> Wesley paused, glanced at Madison, and said, "This is my personal belonging."<br /> "Nonsense, what personal belonging could you possibly have after marrying into the Reed family? Everything you've eaten, worn, and lived in over the years has been provided by the Reed family. Put it down."<br /> As she spoke, Madison reached out to grab the wooden box.<br /> "Ah..." A scream rang out as Madison quickly retracted her hand, a gash appearing on her palm, a crimson liquid dripping.<br /> The wooden box was now stained with the same crimson liquid, trembling lightly in Wesley's hand.<br /> "It's not the right time yet, the day you thirst for this crimson liquid will come," Wesley murmured softly, patting the box before turning to continue his stride towards the exit.<br /> "Monster! A monster!" Madison screamed, causing Taylor and the others to rush out. Seeing the wound in Madison's hand, Taylor was filled with rage.<br /> "Wesley, aren't you going to say something?" Wesley halted once more, contemplating before meeting Taylor's gaze.<br /> "Just stay out of my way from now on. Consider this a warning to you."<br /> "Taylor, that wooden box of his has a mechanism. It must hold something valuable! We can't let him take it with him," Madison, enduring the pain, reminded them.<br /> "Mom, your injury is important. We'll deal with him later. Let me take you to the hospital first." Taylor comforted Madison before calling out to the retreating Wesley.<br /> "Our marriage is over! Yet, you dared to hurt my mother! This won't be the end of it! I will make you regret it!" Ignoring her, Wesley continued walking out.<br /> "Rest assured, I promise he won't see the light of day tomorrow." Henry stepped forward to console. "Let's focus on getting your wound treated first."<br /> "I want him to regret ever existing in this world, to apologize to me in repentance," Madison roared.<br /> "Mom, trust me, I will make him do just that." Taylor looked at Madison with a mix of pity and determination. "Let's go to the hospital first."<br /> In the villa area, Wesley halted, his voice cold. "Get out."<br /> An elderly gent leaped down from a tree, appearing to be in his seventies, yet landing silently from a height of around ten feet.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, your father wants you to come home and take charge."<br /> "He stopped being my father five years ago. He's my enemy."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you misunderstood your father. He had his reasons back then. I swear in my life, once you know the truth, you will forgive him."<br /> "Huh!" Wesley smirked coldly, saying, "I nearly passed away back then. Is that also a misunderstanding?"<br /> The old gent pleaded, "Mr. Harrington, this situation is truly not as you perceive it."<br /> Wesley didn't engage further with the old guy. The events of that year were etched in his memory forever. He was the one who had been abandoned. If not for that incident, why would he have stayed with the Reed family for five years?<br /> Watching Wesley walk away, the old gent had tears silently streaming down his face. "Mr. Harrington, I truly... I truly can't bring myself to speak the truth, but you have misunderstood your father. He also bears burdens and endures pains beyond what an ordinary person can handle."<br /> As Wesley's figure disappeared, the old gent stood up, hesitated for a moment, then dialed a number on his phone.<br /> "Mr. Harrington is now divorced. I've given you the news firsthand. If your daughter is truly together with Mr. Harrington, you must fulfill the promise and let her persuade Mr. Harrington to come home."<br /> After hanging up, a middle-aged gent in a luxurious estate jumped up excitedly. Calming himself, he immediately made another call. "My dear, you're at Yeadeo, right?<br /> "Go find Wesley now. Don't mention the engagement for now. Use every means to get close to him, make him fall in love with you."<br /> "Dad, I don't have time."<br /> "No matter what you are busy with, you must go find Wesley now. No matter what reason you approach him, you must leave a good impression the first time."<br /> "Dad, I'm in trouble right now. If I don't handle it well, I might be good as gone. I have to deal with it immediately. I'm hanging up."<br /> Chapter 3 <br /> The middle-aged gent's voice lowered significantly. "Is there a big incident happening? You didn't tell me? What happened?"<br /> "Quinn Kingsley from Yeadeo, Mr. Kingsley, used our product and now has one foot on the grave. If something really happens to him..."<br /> "You mean Quinn, the uncontested leader of Yeadeo?"<br /> "Yes."<br /> "In that case, you should go find Wesley. Trust me, in this world, there is no problem that Wesley can't solve. As long as he's willing to help, you'll be fine. Listen to me, go find Wesley immediately."<br /> The lady fell silent for a moment before saying, "Okay."<br /> At Yeadeo Harbor, a gent with a large flaxen chain and a watch, sporting a crew cut, hurriedly disembarked, accompanied by a dozen gentlemen.<br /> "Mr. Reed, wherever that trash is, we will find him and tear him apart."<br /> "Yes, that guy dared to harm your mother. We'll make sure he pays for it."<br /> Frank Reed's face turned cold. "Wesley, you coward, thinking you can overturn the world? How dare you touch my mom? Just wait until I find you, you're finished."<br /> "We've found him. Wesley got into a taxi, and our boys followed him."<br /> "Let's go!" Frank waved his hand, leading dozens of men who boarded the car with harpoons, steel pipes, and other weapons.<br /> Inside the taxi, Wesley gazed at the scenery outside, feeling a strange sense of tranquility.<br /> He thought to himself, "I never imagined that while I was secretly paving the way for the Reed family, Taylor, after progressing so rapidly, would start looking down on me more and more."<br /> "Those ladies who know my true identity, which one of them isn't trying to throw themselves at me? Ladies like that don't interest me."<br /> "Being an ordinary gent is truly difficult," Wesley murmured, smiling faintly and deciding not to dwell on these matters anymore. He had important things to attend to and no time to waste on personal affairs.<br /> "Young lad, are you going to Feidgeuo Manor for a job interview?" The driver, curious about Wesley's destination, inquired.<br /> Feidgeuo Manor was Yeadeo's most mysterious private area. Originally a villa area, it was bought at a huge cost five years ago and completely renovated. It was said to have cost a trillion dollars. The former villa area was now Feidgeuo Manor.<br /> "That's my home," Wesley replied nonchalantly.<br /> The driver was taken aback by this revelation, silently cursing Wesley for bragging. After a couple of minutes, the driver regained his composure. "It seems like you and I both prefer to keep a low profile. My car usually gathers dust at home, so I occasionally drive a taxi to experience life."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "My car has been driven by my assistant for the past few years, so it's not gathering dust."<br /> "Haha..." The driver laughed. "We should get together sometime and see whose car is more impressive."<br /> "Sure, whenever we have the time."<br /> As they chatted, the vehicle soon arrived near Feidgeuo Manor, where the massive head of the Feidgeuo Peak protruded, creating a unique landscape in Yeadeo.<br /> The driver asked with a smile, "Since you're the owner here, it's fine if I drive in, right?"<br /> "Of course," Wesley replied.<br /> As soon as Wesley spoke, several cars caught up from behind.<br /> The cars surrounded the one Wesley was in, with the front vehicles braking to force the car to a stop.<br /> When numerous people descended from cars wielding harpoons and steel pipes, the driver's face paled.<br /> Frank and his group got out of the cars, instantly closing in, and without hesitation, started attacking, the steel pipes and harpoons thudding against the car.<br /> Frank's henchman yanked open the door of Wesley's car, poised to stab Wesley with a harpoon, but Wesley swiftly exited the vehicle.<br /> With a firm step on the ground, he launched a swift hit.<br /> A muffled sound echoed as the henchman was hit away.<br /> "What are you looking at?" Frank noticed his henchmen were all staring at him. "All of you, attack together and take him down!"<br /> As he commanded, the henchmen Frank brought with him surged forward.<br /> The taxi driver, trembling, took out his phone to call the police, but Frank glared at him. "I am Frank Reed from Yeadeo Harbor. If you dare, go ahead and make that call."<br /> Frank, leveraging his sister Taylor's status, had been causing trouble in Yeadeo Harbor, and no one dared to provoke him.<br /> Upon hearing Frank's name, the driver hastily put away his phone. "Mr. Reed, I'll just check the time, you guys continue."<br /> "Huh!" Frank snorted coldly, casting his gaze towards the surrounded Wesley.<br /> The sounds of thuds continued to ring out incessantly. Because Wesley was completely surrounded, Frank was unable to see the situation inside clearly, but he could imagine it. After all, in Frank's mind, the henchmen under his command were not to be trifled with.<br /> "Hit him hard for me!"<br /> Another muffled sound and a figure flew out. At that moment, Frank finally saw the situation clearly, and his face turned pale.<br /> Frank knew that Wesley liked to practice martial arts, but he had never expected Wesley to be this skilled. It wasn't Wesley who had been beaten, but his own men by Wesley alone.<br /> Frantically, Frank turned and ran to retrieve a crossbow from the car.<br /> "Clear the way." Frank bellowed, aiming the crossbow at Wesley.<br /> "You scumbag, you think you can fight? Move one more time, and I'll end your life! Surrender!"<br /> Wesley, holding a wooden box, stared at Frank. Ignoring the crossbow in his hand, Wesley said, "Tell your henchmen to back off, or you'll all see the light from above!"<br /> "You're really good at pretending to be tough." Frank took two steps forward. "See the light? Move a muscle and see if I can end your life or not! If you don't have the guts, apologize now!"<br /> Wesley turned his head and looked at the approaching cars, with two expensive ones in the lead, two more in the rear, and another one in the middle.<br /> "Keep acting tough, and I'll put a hole in your head." Frank spoke while glancing at the five cars. "What, looking for help?"<br /> "Let me tell you, those who ride in these cars are not the kind of weaklings like you who rely on connections. With me here, in Yeadeo's social hierarchy, even those who ride in such cars wouldn't dare meddle in this matter. And let me make it clear, without my sister, you're nothing."<br /> <br /> Chapter 4<br /> As Frank's words faded, the five cars came to a halt.<br /> A bodyguard opened the door of the one in the middle, revealing a dazzling pair of shining shoes catching everyone's eye.<br /> The shining shoe encased a beautiful foot. Above, the skirt's hem was adorned with lace.<br /> Then, like a fairy stepping out of a painting, she appeared before everyone's eyes.<br /> The lady was beautiful!<br /> Frank was mesmerized. Ever since the Reed family rose to prominence, he had been surrounded by ladies, but compared to the elegant lady before him, they were worlds apart.<br /> It wasn't just a difference in appearance but an incomparable gap in demeanor.<br /> The lady descending from the Maybach seemed like a celestial being untouched by mortal affairs.<br /> The embodiment of a fairy in the mundane world.<br /> She simply stood there after getting out of the car, perfectly embodying what it meant to be graceful and elegant.<br /> The lady glanced at Wesley, then at Frank.<br /> Frank grinned, saying, "May I have the honor of knowing the name of this esteemed lady? I am Frank..."<br /> The lady spoke calmly. "Disrespect Mr. Harrington, and you're done for."<br /> Her bodyguards, unfazed by Frank's crossbow, swiftly overwhelmed him, sending him crashing to the ground.<br /> The henchmen who had come with Frank, previously defeated by Wesley, now scrambled to their feet and fled in all directions.<br /> Who would dare provoke someone who could afford such a car?<br /> "My sister is Taylor Reed, the chairperson of Reed Group," Frank shouted, clutching his head.<br /> Ignoring him, one of the bodyguards dragged him to the roadside grass while another used a belt to tighten around Frank's neck, exerting pressure.<br /> "Enough, a lesson is all that's needed." Wesley spoke calmly, and only when the lady gestured did the bodyguards release Frank.<br /> Frank lay there, already unconscious.<br /> Wesley turned to the lady. "Who are you?"<br /> "I am Mia Roberts, the general manager of Vinver Business Alliance's Yeadeo branch." She looked at Wesley and continued, "Mr. Harrington, my father mentioned that you have miraculous healing skills and earnestly requested your assistance. A generous reward awaits."<br /> Wesley furrowed his brow slightly, thinking, "There are indeed people who recognize my abilities and status, yet I've rarely intervened in the past five years. Today, shortly after I divorced Taylor, she is here. Whose arrangement is this?"<br /> "Mr. Harrington, my father also mentioned that you are benevolent and has raised the banner of compassion among healers, serving as a role model and benchmark for all in the medical field."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "You have a way with words. Tell me the specifics."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, please get in the car first. I will explain in detail on the way."<br /> The phrase "compassionate healer" held significant weight for Wesley, who had saved countless lives from the brink of death.<br /> Without further ado, he got into the car.<br /> Inside, after Mia brewed coffee for Wesley, she began. "Vinver Business Alliance has a wide range of business operations, and I mainly oversee the health supplement sector, which has seen some success in recent years.<br /> "Recently, Quinn Kingsley started using our medicines, and now there's an accident."<br /> As she spoke, Mia kept her gaze fixed on Wesley.<br /> Quinn, the undisputed leader of Yeadeo, was a figure of immense influence.<br /> Upon hearing this name, Wesley showed no particular reaction. "If the city's leader faces issues with your products, it is indeed a concern. Let's go and see."<br /> With just a sentence, Wesley leaned back in his seat, closing his eyes to rest.<br /> Mia was secretly alarmed, thinking, "He knows who Quinn is, yet he seems indifferent. Who is this Wesley, really? No wonder Dad has instructed me to find a way to win his favor." Mia's inner resistance toward Wesley quietly shifted.<br /> Wesley had piqued her curiosity.<br /> As the vehicle was moving, Wesley's phone rang.<br /> Wesley opened his eyes and took out his phone to see Taylor calling.<br /> Pressing the answer button, he asked, "What's the matter?"<br /> On the other end of the line, Taylor, driving towards Feidgeuo Manor, had a grim expression.<br /> She thought, "Has Wesley ever spoken to me in such a cold tone before? Is he really this heartless right after our divorce?"<br /> Already furious, she snapped. "Wesley, do you even consider yourself a human being?<br /> "Today, not only did you lay hands on my mother, but you also had someone attack my brother. Do you not remember our past at all?"<br /> Wesley calmly replied, "Do we have a past to remember?"<br /> "You truly are a heartless scumbag, just as my mother said. You are an ungrateful and vicious person I raised for five years. Even a pet would wag its tail at me!"<br /> Taylor wanted to continue her tirade, but the phone line had already turned busy.<br /> This only fueled her anger further.<br /> Just now, she had received a call from Frank's underlings, informing her that Wesley had sent people to attack Frank and even intended to end him.<br /> Taylor wanted to demand answers, but...<br /> As Taylor was clutching her fists, her gaze turned icy.<br /> After a moment, she picked up her phone again. "Wesley, you are so narrow-minded. You have no ambition. Any lady would steer clear of you."<br /> "Just because I dumped you, you are doing this on purpose to make me feel sick. Pretending to be aloof and seeking revenge? Do you even deserve it?"<br /> "In Yeadeo, squashing you would be as easy as squashing an ant. You're asking for it! If anything happens to my brother, I will make you wish you were ending!"<br /> Her furious voice message echoed in the car.<br /> Wesley chuckled and put away his phone.<br /> Beside him, Mia seemed contemplative. Before coming, she had already ordered a swift investigation into Wesley.<br /> She was curious, thinking, "How could someone valued by my father could be the one 'marrying into' the Reed family."<br /> Being tactful, Mia chose not to ask and pretended not to have heard.<br /> After about forty minutes, they arrived at the Kingsley Manor.<br /> The Kingsley family members, upon seeing Mia alight from the car, all wore grim expressions.<br /> Mia greeted them with a smile, "Everyone, this is Wesley Harrington, Mr. Harrington, the miraculous healer I specially invited to treat Mr. Kingsley."<br /> "Him? The gent who married into the Reed family?"<br /> "A miraculous healer? Is he even worthy? Are healers so worthless now?"<br /> "A useless gent who mooches off of the Reed family? How dare he call himself a miraculous healer? Truly a joke among all jokes."<br /> Chapter 5<br /> <br /> Amanda Kingsley, Quinn's granddaughter, stared coldly at Wesley and Mia.<br /> This lady, dressed in a smart suit, also held significant fame in Yeadeo, overseeing the region's business activities, including investment attraction and various local business negotiations.<br /> Amanda had a favorable view of Taylor, who had risen swiftly in recent times, and they had interacted frequently.<br /> She was aware of Wesley's existence and had advised Taylor to part ways with him early on.<br /> But Amanda never imagined that Mia would bring someone like Wesley, a complete waste, and claim he was a miraculous healer.<br /> Glaring at Mia, she said, "Mia, once my grandfather is well, it's best for your Roberts family to leave Yeadeo."<br /> "As for you..." She glanced at Wesley. "I will advise Taylor to divorce you. You have deceived Taylor's feelings and now shamelessly made your way into my family. You are a despicable creature."<br /> After reprimanding Mia and Wesley, she turned to an elderly gent beside her, and her tone and attitude completely changed. "Mr. Phillips, sorry to trouble you. My grandfather is inside, please."<br /> Mia looked at the elderly gent, who was already in his twilight years, feeling deeply shocked.<br /> Scott Phillips, the 38th generation heir of the Healing Clinic, was now ninety-two years old.<br /> Renowned as a miraculous healer, he was a respected figure in the medical community of Yeadeo and even nationally.<br /> He no longer conducted consultations personally due to his old age. Mia had visited him specifically to pay her respects once she had arrived in Yeadeo but had not met Scott.<br /> She never expected Scott to appear in person. It was understandable, as Quinn held a prominent position in the city. Despite the profound influence of the Phillips family, they still had to show respect to Quinn.<br /> Mia looked at Wesley, feeling conflicted and thinking, "Dad has confidently claimed that Wesley has extraordinary abilities, but does he really?"<br /> She harbored doubts, but out of propriety, Mia spoke. "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the trouble."<br /> Wesley smiled, "It's fine. As long as the person can be healed."<br /> His open-mindedness impressed Mia.<br /> After about half an hour, Amanda emerged from the room. All eyes instantly turned towards her.<br /> It was evident that Amanda had wailed out, with traces of tears still visible.<br /> "Amanda, how is it?" A middle-aged gent anxiously asked her.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family who had rushed back also focused their attention on her.<br /> "Mr. Phillips said that there's little hope of recovery. He could only use acupuncture to wake grandfather for half an hour. When grandfather wakes up, let's all go in and see if he has any final instructions."<br /> Everyone was shocked.<br /> "How could this be?"<br /> "Is Mr. Phillips also helpless?"<br /> The members of the Kingsley family found it hard to accept this reality, especially since Quinn had always treated his juniors well.<br /> The thought of Quinn departing saddened some, and tears silently fell.<br /> Publicly, Quinn's status was the foundation of the Kingsley family's prominence in Yeadeo.<br /> If Quinn were to pass away, the Kingsley family would undoubtedly decline.<br /> The atmosphere within the Kingsley family was somber.<br /> Amanda looked at her family members, opened her mouth, but said nothing, silently turning back into the room.<br /> "Stop crying," A middle-aged gent said sternly, "Dad wouldn't want to see you all in tears. If he's really leaving, we mustn't let him worry about us. Pull yourselves together."<br /> After these words, the middle-aged gent also entered the room.<br /> The younger members of the Kingsley family wiped their tears vigorously, trying to force smiles, but in truth, they looked better at crying than pretending to be happy.<br /> Mia's spirit plummeted as she realized the gravity of the situation. Even if an ordinary person passed away from consuming health supplements, it spelled big trouble for those who sold them. And when the deceased happened to be Quinn, the stakes were even higher.<br /> She understood that it would be difficult for this branch to stay in Yeadeo, and even the headquarters might face repercussions.<br /> "Let's go in and have a look." Wesley glanced at Mia. "There might still be a chance."<br /> "Ah..." Mia stared at Wesley in surprise. Seeing him already heading towards the room, she quickly followed suit.<br /> Inside the room, the members of the Kingsley family stood around the mattress, maintaining a certain distance.<br /> Scott lit the alcohol lamp and took out the needles, his expression solemn.<br /> He looked at the members of the Kingsley family. "Think about what you want to say to Mr. Kingsley later. Once you're ready, let me know, and then I'll proceed with the acupuncture."<br /> As he said this, tears welled up in many eyes.<br /> "If you don't mind, let me take a look. I have a way." Wesley spoke up, drawing everyone's attention.<br /> Amanda's face darkened. "Who let you in? Get out!"<br /> "Mia, have you lost your mind? Tricked by this trash and actually brought him here as a miracle healer. Get out with him! I'll settle the score with you in a couple of days."<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, at a loss for words.<br /> "Even Mr. Phillips is unable to reverse the situation. What use are you? Get out." Another younger member of the Kingsley family angrily rebuked.<br /> The middle-aged gent added, "We're in no mood right now. You better leave immediately."<br /> "I understand your narrow-mindedness," Wesley continued, "But as a healer, once I see a patient, I cannot stand by and watch him draw his last breath."<br /> "Wesley, you're quite the charlatan. Do you really want to be gone right now?" Amanda's voice was filled with anger.<br /> "Amanda, let me say a few words," Scott interjected, and Amanda fell silent.<br /> Looking at Wesley, Scott began. "Young lad, at my age, I've seen a lot and have a broad perspective. Today, however, I find it hard to remain indifferent. I practiced medicine from the age of sixteen until I stopped seeing patients for a total of seventy years."<br /> "I've saved countless patients from various illnesses. I never easily declare a patient's fate, nor do I believe I have the right to do so."<br /> "But from your recent remarks, it seems like you're accusing me of such actions. Young people wanting to make a name for themselves by stepping on the shoulders of their predecessors, I can understand."<br /> "But this kind of behavior displeases me."<br /> "My displeasure, what does it mean to you? Do you understand?"<br /> "Even if you are a healer, your career will be ruined because of this."<br /> Chapter 6 <br /> In the face of Scott's veiled threats, Wesley simply smiled and brushed them off.<br /> Looking at Scott, he asked, "I've always focused on the issue at hand rather than attacking individuals. I have a few questions for you. If you can't administer the needles, how long do you think Quinn can hold on?"<br /> "Seven days, but he will remain unconscious," Scott replied bluntly.<br /> "Then let me ask you this, is there anyone in the world with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "Outrageous," Amanda coldly interjected, "Mr. Phillips is unparalleled in his medical expertise."<br /> Scott glanced at Amanda. "Amanda, let me handle this question."<br /> Continuing to address Wesley, he said, "I don't underestimate myself, nor do I overestimate. There are countless talented individuals in the world, like stars in the sky. I may not dare claim to be the best in medical skills, but those who surpass me are few."<br /> "That means there are some," Wesley calmly remarked, causing Scott's expression to shift slightly, "Indeed, there are."<br /> "Then let me ask you this. Do you think within seven days, the Kingsley family won't find someone with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "If they do find someone, do you believe there is an illness that you cannot cure, but this person can?"<br /> Wesley's questions were sharp and resounding.<br /> Scott's face changed once more as he was rendered speechless.<br /> "Even if there is, that person will never be you." Amanda's face turned icy. "Now get out. Don't spout your eloquence here. Your deceitful behavior is repulsive."<br /> "Your understanding of me is merely hearsay, isn't it?" Wesley retorted, his gaze mocking Amanda, "Has your background and education taught you such arrogance and prejudice?"<br /> "Arrogance?" Amanda's face grew colder as she disdainfully looked at Wesley. "Prejudice?<br /> "Did I say something wrong just now? You are nothing but stagnant waste, a parasite living off others. If it weren't for Taylor, you would have starved on the streets long ago."<br /> "Relying on sweet words, deceiving Taylor. She, with her kind heart, can't bear to divorce you, but don't push your luck. If it weren't for Taylor's sake, you would have been sent out long ago."<br /> Scott interrupted Amanda, "Amanda, although I find this lad a bit annoying, what he said does hold some truth. There are indeed individuals with better medical skills than me. Your grandfather can hold on for seven days. Try reaching out to see if someone can come over. I'll help you make connections."<br /> "If it really doesn't work out after seven days, I'll administer the needles to your grandfather. However, at that point, I can only buy you three minutes."<br /> As soon as Scott spoke, the faces of the Kingsley family members grew even more solemn. True healers were rare and not easily summoned.<br /> While the Kingsley family had connections in Yeadeo, their influence waned outside of it.<br /> "Mr. Phillips, please administer the needles. Life has its ups and downs, and we understand that. Just buy my father a bit more time." The middle-aged gent spoke up.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family nodded in agreement.<br /> Amanda looked at Scott. "Mr. Phillips, please."<br /> "In that case, please have everyone unrelated leave. I need silence," Scott calmly stated.<br /> Amanda glared at Wesley, her eyes speaking volumes without a word.<br /> The unrelated individuals were, naturally, Wesley and Mia.<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, intending to leave, but she suddenly hesitated.<br /> Instead of leaving, Wesley moved forward.<br /> "What are you doing?" A young member of the Kingsley family stepped forward with a stern expression, pushing Wesley.<br /> In one swift motion, Wesley executed a clean shoulder throw, toppling the young gent to the ground, his own expression turning cold.<br /> "A bunch of fools! If it weren't for my teacher's teachings about not turning a blind eye to those in need, I wouldn't bother with you ignorant lot," Wesley remarked with disdain.<br /> As Wesley effortlessly took down one individual from the Kingsley family, the others seemed slow to react.<br /> By the time they realized what was happening, Wesley had already picked up the needle next to Scott and casually flicked his wrist.<br /> The needle flew out of his hand, piercing Quinn's temple, followed by a second needle, a third needle, and so on.<br /> "What are you doing? Stop!" Amanda's voice rose in urgency, echoed by the rest of the Kingsley family members who rushed forward to restrain Wesley.<br /> "Stay back, everyone. Wait." Scott suddenly stood up, blocking the others. "Let him try."<br /> Amanda and the others were left dumbfounded, thinking, "What does this mean?"<br /> Despite their confusion, they heeded Scott's words.<br /> After Scott stopped the members of the Kingsley family, he fixed his gaze on Wesley.<br /> Wesley proceeded to use eighteen needles in succession, symbolizing the levels of pain.<br /> Even if someone had descended into the depths of hell, they must be brought back.<br /> The final needle, also piercing a vital point, caused Quinn's body to tremble suddenly, resonating with the previous eighteen needles.<br /> Scott's eyes widened, his body trembling slightly. His reaction left Amanda and the others even more puzzled, but none dared to interrupt.<br /> Moments later, Wesley placed a palm on Quinn's chest, causing all eighteen needles to be shaken off. When all the needles landed on the ground, the part of the skin where the needles had pierced turned dark.<br /> Wesley then dragged Quinn to the edge of the mattress, flipped him over with his head facing downwards, and gave him a firm pat on the back.<br /> Quinn spat out a mouthful of black liquid. When Wesley flipped him back to lie flat, his complexion had regained some color.<br /> "The Hand of Darkness... It's the Hand of Darkness!" Scott exclaimed with excitement, his body quivering, "It's the Hand that descends into the dark world, snatching people from the hands of the Evil!"<br /> "You do have some knowledge, recognizing the Hand of Darkness." Wesley glanced at Scott.<br /> Scott's gaze towards Wesley had undergone a drastic change. He respectfully clasped his hands together.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thirty years ago, I had the honor of attending a teaching conference held by Mr. Vanderbilt. I saw the Hand of Darkness, but my limited aptitude only allowed me to grasp the basics."<br /> "I have been blind and ignorant. I apologize for my earlier offenses. Please forgive me, Mr. Harrington."<br /> The Mr. Vanderbilt Scott referred to was Wesley's teacher, Ulysses Vanderbilt. He generously imparted his skills to others, but the ability to learn depended on one's innate talent.<br /> In this world, few could learn Ulysses' skills.<br /> Scott had been fortunate to receive guidance from Ulysses, which had elevated his medical skills. However, the Hand of Darkness, a miraculous ability, was beyond his comprehension.<br /> Wesley smiled faintly, "Your actions earlier are understandable. I appreciate your words."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you must be an exceptional disciple of Mr. Vanderbilt, possessing unparalleled magnanimity. Impressive," Scott continued.<br /> "Enough with the flattery at your age."<br /> "You are mistaken, Mr. Harrington. Every word I speak is sincere."<br /> Mia, Amanda, and the others stood bewildered by the unfolding situation.<br /> "Mr. Phillips... he... he..." Amanda's words faltered.<br /> Scott turned to the members of the Kingsley family. "Meeting Mr. Harrington was Quinn's luck. His symptoms have been cured by Mr. Harrington. With a few days of rest, he will be fine."<br /> The waste Taylor had previously said was called Mr. Harrington by Scott!<br /> Recalling their previous attitudes, Amanda hurriedly apologized, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> The members of the Kingsley family all apologized in unison, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> Chapter 7 <br /> With a faint smile, Wesley remarked, "As family members of a patient, your actions earlier are understandable. There's no need for such formality."<br /> Amanda's perplexity deepened as she thought, "Where is the cowardly waste that Taylor described? This display of magnanimity and breadth is far from it."<br /> Mia, too, felt a shiver of realization, thinking, "No wonder Dad has insisted on my proximity to Wesley.<br /> This guy..."<br /> She gazed at Wesley, her curiosity piqued, a sense of exploration stirring within her.<br /> "Mia has brought you here, Mr. Harrington, to cure my grandfather. The Kingsley family will never forget this act. However, considering that my grandfather's ailment stemmed from the health supplements produced by the Vinver Business Alliance, we will be conducting an investigation into it."<br /> Amanda continued, looking at Wesley, "What do you think... of this approach?"<br /> It was Mia who had invited Wesley, so Amanda had grown wiser, refraining from asking for a direct punishment of the Vinver Business Alliance.<br /> As Mia heard Amanda's words, her heart skipped a beat, realizing trouble was brewing.<br /> "On the way here, Ms. Roberts briefed me on the situation. You conducted experiments on mice, correct?"<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes, the health supplements we received were exclusively provided by the Roberts family. There were no similar cases on the market, so we used mice for testing.<br /> "All the mice that ingested this supplement were gone."<br /> She looked at Mia and added, her voice turning colder, "Before the experiment, I specifically contacted Mia to inquire about the testing methods during the development phase, which involved mice.<br /> "There have been individuals eyeing my grandfather's position, some even wishing for his demise. I never imagined that the Vinver Business Alliance, which I attracted for investment, would become a weapon in someone else's hands."<br /> "Do you have any of the remaining medicine?" Wesley inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes."<br /> "Bring some over."<br /> Immediately, someone fetched the medicine. After it was brought to him, Wesley took out a supplement and swallowed it directly.<br /> This scene left Amanda and the others dumbfounded.<br /> Scott, too, was bewildered. "Mr. Harrington, what are you doing?"<br /> Wesley smiled, "Just proving that this medicine is not toxic."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thank you," Mia thanked sincerely, feeling like crying at that moment.<br /> Amanda, with a puzzled expression, looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, are you suggesting that my grandfather's condition wasn't caused by the Vinver Business Alliance's medicine? What about the mice?"<br /> The rest were equally puzzled.<br /> "Yes, but not entirely," Wesley said, leaving everyone even more bewildered.<br /> Mia's emotions were like a rollercoaster ride, from relief to immediate tension.<br /> "This medicine itself is not toxic, but when taken with another substance made from a certain plant, it results in Quinn's condition. The mice would die immediately, while humans could endure a few more days."<br /> Wesley continued to explain, "The plant used in this concoction is originally meant for crafting slow-acting toxins, not for human consumption."<br /> Looking at Amanda, Wesley said, "During this period, whoever had access to your grandfather and the mice will better understand why these events occurred."<br /> The gaze of members of the Kingsley family immediately focused on a lady.<br /> Amanda, somewhat incredulous, looked at her. "Can you offer an explanation?"<br /> The lady was the wife of Amanda's deceased brother. She found it hard to accept, as did the rest of the Kingsley family.<br /> This lady had been named the exemplary lady who served her family well this year, not due to her connection with the Kingsley family but because she genuinely deserved it.<br /> "What do you mean? Amanda, what explanation do you want from me?"<br /> The lady stared at Amanda. "Am I the only one who had access to Grandfather and the mice? You, and you... and you, who didn't have access?"<br /> "You all claim to treat me as family. Since I married into the Kingsley family, I have worked diligently, contributing my share even if not acknowledged."<br /> "Amanda, it has been over a year since your brother passed, and I never once considered remarrying. Now, just because of his words, you demand an explanation from me?"<br /> Pointing at Wesley, the lady questioned, "Just because he accuses me of poisoning, you suspect me? Tell me, did I poison him?" The lady glared at Wesley.<br /> "I am merely analyzing the facts. As for concluding this case, it's not within my purview," Wesley addressed the members of the Kingsley family, saying, "You should conduct a thorough investigation into this matter.<br /> "I will write a prescription. Have Quinn take it on time, and he will recover in seven days."<br /> Amanda hurried to fetch paper and pen while Wesley prepared the prescription. Once done, he was ready to leave.<br /> Amanda said hurriedly, "Mr. Harrington, I've already made arrangements for lunch."<br /> "No need," Wesley smiled.<br /> The Kingsley family sought to build closer ties with Wesley, given his extraordinary medical skills. Wesley was well aware of this.<br /> Looking at Amanda and the others, Wesley remarked, "In the future, if you encounter any difficult medical cases that others cannot solve, seek me out. Remember, cases others cannot solve."<br /> The gaze of the Kingsley family members toward Wesley changed once again. Many renowned healers had eccentric personalities and were difficult to engage.<br /> They hadn't expected Wesley to possess such remarkable medical skills without any airs.<br /> As Wesley prepared to depart, the members of the Kingsley family did not dare to insist on his stay, so they accompanied him outside.<br /> "Oh, how could we forget such an important matter? Amanda, what about the consultation fee?" The middle-aged gent inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the oversight. Please wait a moment." Amanda hurried back inside and soon returned with a bank card in hand.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, there's one million dollars in here."<br /> Without hesitation, Wesley accepted the bank card and boarded Mia's car.<br /> During the journey, Mia boldly looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, you've helped me immensely. Can I treat you to a meal? Don't decline in a hurry. It's not a fancy restaurant, but it will leave you wanting more. It's a small place on the street, with only eight plates of noodles served each day, each plate containing different ingredients.<br /> "I managed to secure a reservation. Are you interested?"<br /> Wesley thought, "Eight Plates of Noodles? Ah, Aaron's restaurant. It has been a while since I visited those old friends."<br /> Wesley nodded. "Let's go then."<br /> The restaurant, Eight Plates of Noodles, was located on Chanxold Street near the Yeadeo First Central Hospital.<br /> The establishment was small, serving only eight plates of noodles each day at a price of 10 thousand dollars each. Vernoic's television culinary program had specifically covered this incident.<br /> Reservations were a must to secure a plate.<br /> The restaurant's owner had a mysterious background. While the specifics were unknown, a high-ranking noble from the capital of Vernoic, Kingsland, had caused a scene there once.<br /> He had attempted to force his way in without a reservation. Although this incident hadn't been reported, rumors suggested that a garbage truck had to be called to dispose of the intruder's remains, as he was too shattered to be removed by conventional means.<br /> Since then, no one dared to cause trouble.<br /> On their way, Mia introduced Wesley to the background story.<br /> "Mr. Turner, two plates of noodles." Mia called out once they arrived.<br /> Aaron Turner didn't respond but visibly paused upon seeing Wesley beside Mia.<br /> A faint smile appeared on his usually stoic face. Though the flesh on the face seemed stiff, it was indeed a smile. "Coming right up."<br /> Mia glanced at Aaron with a hint of surprise, thinking, "When did he become so warm and enthusiastic? His tone seemed a bit agitated earlier, didn't it?"<br /> Soon enough, Aaron brought two plates of noodles to the table. One steaming hot and the other devoid of any warmth.<br /> As Mia observed Aaron placing the plate without steam in front of Wesley, her expression changed slightly.<br /> It was a plate of instant noodles having soaked in cold water, with the seasoning barely dissolved.<br /> She felt a sense of panic. Mia had wanted to leave a good impression on Wesley, which was why she had chosen this place.<br /> However, Aaron had served such a plate of noodles.<br /> She dared not question Aaron. The type of noodles served here was not determined by the guests but by Aaron's mood.<br /> "This girl named Mia is quite something, living up to her name, and quite kind-hearted," Aaron remarked, looking at Wesley.<br /> "Get lost," Wesley retorted, using his fork to pick up the noodles and devouring them.<br /> Mia's face turned pale instantly. Disrespecting Aaron was akin to risking Wesley's life.<br /> To her astonishment, Aaron chuckled, tears welling up in his eyes.<br /> He wiped them away. "Alright, I'll leave you to your meal."<br /> Before departing, he gave Mia a thumbs-up. "Seize the opportunity."<br /> The eight plates of noodles symbolized the eight comrades who had faced life and life-threatening situations together.<br /> Wesley ate voraciously. Initially, they had only one pack of instant noodles to share among the eight of them, forcing them to divide it.<br /> Despite the circumstances, they devoured the noodles joyfully.<br /> Aaron had promised that once they survived, each one would have the most delicious plate of noodles.<br /> However, five of the eight had perished.<br /> Wesley had come dangerously close to life-threatening situations, but managed to cling to life.<br /> For him, the plate of noodles was not food but the bond of friendship that had shielded him from harm.<br /> "Do you... know each other?" Mia couldn't help but ask, her voice low and curious.<br /> "Some things are better left unknown," Wesley replied.<br /> Mia nodded in understanding, falling silent as they continued eating noodles. She couldn't help stealing glances at Wesley throughout the meal.<br /> This gent had piqued her curiosity even more.<br /> "Wesley, I see. No wonder you agreed to the divorce so readily. You've already found someone else outside."<br /> A sharp voice interrupted their meal.<br /> Taylor approached with a cold expression, accompanied by Henry. | Adoread Romance story | 106 | https://facebook.com/61557113391558 | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1713250800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846722 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446608 | 1735168083 | 890 | 422402953720964 | 1 | 1.9028228268359E+15 | 1713337200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 235254296344339 | 0 | Adoread Romance story | 120207848358590113 | play.google.com | Install now | NONE | video | HOT BOOK✨Tap the button to read more👉 | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.adoread.book | 1713261157 | 2.3525429634434E+14 | Adoread Romance story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436236231_743217614661956_5188923105667158496_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2cJGW2Pa5ggQ7kNvgEcJN4Y&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBm6dPRtsNgKN0sy4gpohfJYtO-HsaWMEbnrhPqLtKC5A&oe=6663EDB1 | person_profile | 0 | Adoread Romance story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436252788_1102450227644432_1492552067174809566_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JCtZ5LgYmYQQ7kNvgFmoAR_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCHrYhjUs3spqVbpzu10PjqW2ySGSkSsQ2FmM8saniwjA&oe=666408F9 | 0 | 3 | Chapter 1 <br /> "Wesley, are you trying to harm me? You useless piece of trash, can't even make a decent cup of coffee, can you?"<br /> Madison Blair lifted her coffee cup and splashed it directly onto Wesley Harrington's face.<br /> "What are you looking at, you spineless waste? Your name sounds so lofty? I might as well call you a waste."<br /> Glancing at the grotesque expression of his wife's mother, Wesley pulled out his phone to check the time.<br /> Exactly twelve o'clock. It had been five full years since he married Taylor Reed.<br /> The appointed time had come.<br /> He had fulfilled his promise, safeguarding the Reed family for five years, transforming them from a family living off fishing to one perceived as affluent by the common folk.<br /> Wiping the coffee off his face, he turned and walked away.<br /> "Where do you think you're going? Go fetch some more coffee," Madison shouted.<br /> "Madison, didn't you say this waste is obedient at home, doing whatever he's told? I don't think he's taking it lying down."<br /> Madison grew angrier. "Wesley, you stop right there. My family has fed and housed you. If you dare disobey, I'll have you thrown out!"<br /> Ignoring her, Wesley continued downstairs.<br /> "When Taylor comes back, I'll immediately have you two divorced. Do you hear me? Stay right there," Madison threatened, "I'll let you know your place today."<br /> Grabbing a golf club, Madison swiftly charged towards Wesley.<br /> Seeing Wesley heading downstairs, she swung the club viciously at his back.<br /> Without turning back, Wesley gently sidestepped.<br /> Losing her balance, Madison tumbled forward, rolling down the stairs with a series of thumps.<br /> "Ouch... it hurts, it hurts so much!"<br /> As Madison reached the ground floor, she wailed in pain and her sister immediately rushed to her.<br /> "Wesley, what have you done? How dare you hit my sister!" Madison's sister hurried down, checking on Madison's condition.<br /> Wesley remained silent, observing the scene.<br /> "Quick, call Taylor. Tell her to come back. Today, she must divorce this waste." Madison glared at Wesley. "How dare you hit me? Not only will I let Taylor divorce you, but I'll make sure you leave in disgrace."<br /> "Mum, what's wrong?" At that moment, a gent and a lady walked in.<br /> The lady was Taylor, Madison's daughter.<br /> She ran towards Madison.<br /> As Madison pointed at Wesley, tears streamed down her face. "Taylor, he hit me, he hit me! When you're not home, he changes his attitude, scolding and hitting me in the slightest displeasure. He even pushed me down the stairs just now. Alexis can testify."<br /> Madison's sister, Alexis Blair, chimed in. "Yes, Wesley, this trash not only hit your mother but also threatened to hit me too. We cannot tolerate such trash."<br /> "Taylor, I have been telling you to divorce him for years. You've been supporting him, treating him like a Lord at home, but he's an ungrateful wolf in sheep's clothing."<br /> Helping Madison up, Taylor noticed the scrapes on Madison's arms and legs, her expression turning cold.<br /> "Wesley, why did you hit my mother? You better give me an explanation."<br /> Wesley looked at Taylor, his wife.<br /> Five years had passed, and she had never shown him kindness.<br /> Taylor dressed impeccably, a paragon of a successful lady, with a face that could be deemed angelic, yet whether her heart was as angelic remained a mystery.<br /> Her figure, too, left countless men yearning.<br /> For five years, Wesley had thought he might develop feelings for this lady, but in reality, it never happened.<br /> "There are surveillance cameras in the house," Wesley stated calmly before descending the stairs into the hallway.<br /> Despite residing in a three-story villa, Wesley's living quarters were confined to the stairwell.<br /> He harbored no resentment towards this arrangement. It was merely a promise. It was just that Taylor failed to appreciate him.<br /> This home held little value that he wished to cling onto.<br /> Retrieving a wooden box from beneath his pillow, Wesley extracted two documents. Casting a fleeting glance at the modest abode he had called home for five years, Wesley smiled faintly.<br /> He thought, "Finally... I'm free."<br /> Pushing the door ajar, Wesley was met by Taylor's piercing gaze. "I've reviewed the surveillance footage. Yes, my mother intended to strike you, but even if she did, what difference would it make?"<br /> "She's a lady. How much could her blows hurt you? Why did you dodge?"<br /> "If you hadn't dodged, my mother wouldn't have tumbled down." Wesley stared at Taylor, unable to comprehend her thought process.<br /> He had no interest in engaging in these arguments. Handing over the two documents to Taylor, he remarked, "The divorce agreement. I've already signed it. Take a look. I'm leaving with nothing."<br /> "With your current influence, there's no need for you to visit the city hall. Someone will handle it for you, right?"<br /> Madison was taken aback. She swiftly snatched the divorce agreement, flipping through it hastily.<br /> The contents were indeed straightforward. Both parties willingly divorced, with Wesley relinquishing all claims and having already signed.<br /> In an instant, Madison's pain seemed to dissipate. "Taylor, sign it quickly. Sign it."<br /> Taylor was still in a daze.<br /> She pondered.<br /> "A divorce agreement? Wesley has already prepared a divorce agreement. On what grounds?"<br /> "What gives him the right to initiate a divorce? All these years, he's done nothing at home, lacking any ambition. Always practicing martial arts, what right does he have to seek a divorce?"<br /> "If anyone should initiate it, it should be me. Moreover, now that I'm back to discussing this matter with him. Could it be that word got out, and Wesley, for the sake of his pride, rushed to prepare a divorce agreement first?"<br /> "It must be so, but... No!"<br /> "Wanting to leave with nothing, is he retreating to advance? As the chairman of the Reed Group, how could I be served with a divorce?"<br /> "Hey Wesley, I never expected this from you. Have I not treated you well enough? You seek a divorce, attempting to turn your retreat into advance, aiming to embarrass me?"<br /> Taylor glared at Wesley. "I'm telling you, it's impossible."<br /> Snatching the divorce agreement, she tore it to shreds.<br /> "Taylor, what are you doing? Such a great opportunity. Why not just sign it and let him leave?" Madison grew anxious.<br /> "Mom, I do intend to divorce this trash, but the decision must come from me. I returned specifically to address this matter."<br /> With that, Taylor produced two documents. "Wesley, remember that it's me who's divorcing you. It's me who no longer wants you. Initially, out of marital obligation, I had considered offering you some compensation. Now, you don't even need to think about it. Sign the divorce agreement and leave my home."<br /> Wesley offered a faint smile as he accepted the divorce agreement.<br /> "What are you laughing at?" Taylor demanded angrily.<br /> Wesley's smile seemed to mock her, fueling her rage.<br /> Ignoring her entirely, Wesley signed the document and handed it over.<br /> "What are you laughing at? Answer me! Who do you think you are?" Taylor roared once more.<br /> Wesley glanced at her before striding towards the exit.<br /> "Stop!" The gent who had accompanied Taylor stepped forward, blocking Wesley's path. "Taylor asked you a question, and... Your previous attitude displeased me. Apologize to Taylor, or I'll have you leave in disgrace!"<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 <br /> "Yes, let him leave in disgrace. He thought he could just hit me and walk away so easily," Madison joined in the commotion, also noticing the gent blocking Wesley's path.<br /> Madison had a keen interest in luxury goods, having frequented various high-end establishments over the years as the Reed family's living conditions improved. The gent was wearing an expensive watch and dressed head to toe in high-end luxury brands.<br /> Seeing Madison's gaze, the gent spoke. "Rest assured, today Wesley must pay the price."<br /> The gent introduced himself, looking at Wesley, "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Henry Clark, the eldest son of the Clark family and the general manager of the Clark Group in the North District."<br /> "From now on, I will accompany Taylor on her journey of life, and I will not allow anyone to bully her."<br /> "My identity carries weight. You should understand that. Now, apologize to Taylor. Apologize! Did you hear me? Apologize!"<br /> Madison's eyes lit up. She hadn't expected the gent before her to hold such a high status. She continued to shout, "Did you hear that? Taylor will be with Mr. Clark from now on. Apologize now."<br /> Wesley glanced at Henry, then at Taylor. He thought, "Have they been together all along?" Wesley had wanted to ask but decided against it because there was no need. He simply gave them a glance and continued walking towards the exit.<br /> "Are you ignoring me?" Henry's face turned cold as he reached out to grab Wesley. Henry's hand froze mid-air as he received a solid hit.<br /> "Until I sign the divorce papers, Taylor and I are still wife and husband. I don't care to investigate whether you two had any intimate relationship during that time, but don't provoke me, or I won't hesitate to make you regret it." Wesley's gaze was icy, and as Henry met his eyes, he felt a twinge of fear and swallowed his words.<br /> Taylor was also stunned. She knew exactly what Wesley had been like over the past five years. There were many surveillance cameras in the house, and she would often check them.<br /> Even when Taylor wasn't home, despite how her family treated Wesley, he always obeyed without complaint, especially towards her. He had never raised his voice, no matter how they treated him.<br /> Today, not only did Wesley dodge when her mother struck, but he also initiated the divorce and now even struck Henry. <br /> Taylor was at a loss for words, thinking, "How could this cowardly gent dare? On what grounds does he dare?"<br /> This change was difficult for Taylor to accept as if she didn't truly understand this guy. The gent who used to be obedient to her, completely submissive, now revealed this side of himself. She watched Wesley walk away in a daze, feeling a strange discomfort in her heart.<br /> "Isn't he leaving with nothing?" Alexis pointed at the wooden box Wesley was holding. "What is he taking with him?"<br /> Madison also realized. Over the past five years, Wesley had always treasured this wooden box, carrying it with him wherever he went. She thought there must be something valuable inside.<br /> Realizing this, Madison hurriedly followed. "Wesley, stop right there, leave the wooden box."<br /> Wesley paused, glanced at Madison, and said, "This is my personal belonging."<br /> "Nonsense, what personal belonging could you possibly have after marrying into the Reed family? Everything you've eaten, worn, and lived in over the years has been provided by the Reed family. Put it down."<br /> As she spoke, Madison reached out to grab the wooden box.<br /> "Ah..." A scream rang out as Madison quickly retracted her hand, a gash appearing on her palm, a crimson liquid dripping.<br /> The wooden box was now stained with the same crimson liquid, trembling lightly in Wesley's hand.<br /> "It's not the right time yet, the day you thirst for this crimson liquid will come," Wesley murmured softly, patting the box before turning to continue his stride towards the exit.<br /> "Monster! A monster!" Madison screamed, causing Taylor and the others to rush out. Seeing the wound in Madison's hand, Taylor was filled with rage.<br /> "Wesley, aren't you going to say something?" Wesley halted once more, contemplating before meeting Taylor's gaze.<br /> "Just stay out of my way from now on. Consider this a warning to you."<br /> "Taylor, that wooden box of his has a mechanism. It must hold something valuable! We can't let him take it with him," Madison, enduring the pain, reminded them.<br /> "Mom, your injury is important. We'll deal with him later. Let me take you to the hospital first." Taylor comforted Madison before calling out to the retreating Wesley.<br /> "Our marriage is over! Yet, you dared to hurt my mother! This won't be the end of it! I will make you regret it!" Ignoring her, Wesley continued walking out.<br /> "Rest assured, I promise he won't see the light of day tomorrow." Henry stepped forward to console. "Let's focus on getting your wound treated first."<br /> "I want him to regret ever existing in this world, to apologize to me in repentance," Madison roared.<br /> "Mom, trust me, I will make him do just that." Taylor looked at Madison with a mix of pity and determination. "Let's go to the hospital first."<br /> In the villa area, Wesley halted, his voice cold. "Get out."<br /> An elderly gent leaped down from a tree, appearing to be in his seventies, yet landing silently from a height of around ten feet.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, your father wants you to come home and take charge."<br /> "He stopped being my father five years ago. He's my enemy."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you misunderstood your father. He had his reasons back then. I swear in my life, once you know the truth, you will forgive him."<br /> "Huh!" Wesley smirked coldly, saying, "I nearly passed away back then. Is that also a misunderstanding?"<br /> The old gent pleaded, "Mr. Harrington, this situation is truly not as you perceive it."<br /> Wesley didn't engage further with the old guy. The events of that year were etched in his memory forever. He was the one who had been abandoned. If not for that incident, why would he have stayed with the Reed family for five years?<br /> Watching Wesley walk away, the old gent had tears silently streaming down his face. "Mr. Harrington, I truly... I truly can't bring myself to speak the truth, but you have misunderstood your father. He also bears burdens and endures pains beyond what an ordinary person can handle."<br /> As Wesley's figure disappeared, the old gent stood up, hesitated for a moment, then dialed a number on his phone.<br /> "Mr. Harrington is now divorced. I've given you the news firsthand. If your daughter is truly together with Mr. Harrington, you must fulfill the promise and let her persuade Mr. Harrington to come home."<br /> After hanging up, a middle-aged gent in a luxurious estate jumped up excitedly. Calming himself, he immediately made another call. "My dear, you're at Yeadeo, right?<br /> "Go find Wesley now. Don't mention the engagement for now. Use every means to get close to him, make him fall in love with you."<br /> "Dad, I don't have time."<br /> "No matter what you are busy with, you must go find Wesley now. No matter what reason you approach him, you must leave a good impression the first time."<br /> "Dad, I'm in trouble right now. If I don't handle it well, I might be good as gone. I have to deal with it immediately. I'm hanging up."<br /> Chapter 3 <br /> The middle-aged gent's voice lowered significantly. "Is there a big incident happening? You didn't tell me? What happened?"<br /> "Quinn Kingsley from Yeadeo, Mr. Kingsley, used our product and now has one foot on the grave. If something really happens to him..."<br /> "You mean Quinn, the uncontested leader of Yeadeo?"<br /> "Yes."<br /> "In that case, you should go find Wesley. Trust me, in this world, there is no problem that Wesley can't solve. As long as he's willing to help, you'll be fine. Listen to me, go find Wesley immediately."<br /> The lady fell silent for a moment before saying, "Okay."<br /> At Yeadeo Harbor, a gent with a large flaxen chain and a watch, sporting a crew cut, hurriedly disembarked, accompanied by a dozen gentlemen.<br /> "Mr. Reed, wherever that trash is, we will find him and tear him apart."<br /> "Yes, that guy dared to harm your mother. We'll make sure he pays for it."<br /> Frank Reed's face turned cold. "Wesley, you coward, thinking you can overturn the world? How dare you touch my mom? Just wait until I find you, you're finished."<br /> "We've found him. Wesley got into a taxi, and our boys followed him."<br /> "Let's go!" Frank waved his hand, leading dozens of men who boarded the car with harpoons, steel pipes, and other weapons.<br /> Inside the taxi, Wesley gazed at the scenery outside, feeling a strange sense of tranquility.<br /> He thought to himself, "I never imagined that while I was secretly paving the way for the Reed family, Taylor, after progressing so rapidly, would start looking down on me more and more."<br /> "Those ladies who know my true identity, which one of them isn't trying to throw themselves at me? Ladies like that don't interest me."<br /> "Being an ordinary gent is truly difficult," Wesley murmured, smiling faintly and deciding not to dwell on these matters anymore. He had important things to attend to and no time to waste on personal affairs.<br /> "Young lad, are you going to Feidgeuo Manor for a job interview?" The driver, curious about Wesley's destination, inquired.<br /> Feidgeuo Manor was Yeadeo's most mysterious private area. Originally a villa area, it was bought at a huge cost five years ago and completely renovated. It was said to have cost a trillion dollars. The former villa area was now Feidgeuo Manor.<br /> "That's my home," Wesley replied nonchalantly.<br /> The driver was taken aback by this revelation, silently cursing Wesley for bragging. After a couple of minutes, the driver regained his composure. "It seems like you and I both prefer to keep a low profile. My car usually gathers dust at home, so I occasionally drive a taxi to experience life."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "My car has been driven by my assistant for the past few years, so it's not gathering dust."<br /> "Haha..." The driver laughed. "We should get together sometime and see whose car is more impressive."<br /> "Sure, whenever we have the time."<br /> As they chatted, the vehicle soon arrived near Feidgeuo Manor, where the massive head of the Feidgeuo Peak protruded, creating a unique landscape in Yeadeo.<br /> The driver asked with a smile, "Since you're the owner here, it's fine if I drive in, right?"<br /> "Of course," Wesley replied.<br /> As soon as Wesley spoke, several cars caught up from behind.<br /> The cars surrounded the one Wesley was in, with the front vehicles braking to force the car to a stop.<br /> When numerous people descended from cars wielding harpoons and steel pipes, the driver's face paled.<br /> Frank and his group got out of the cars, instantly closing in, and without hesitation, started attacking, the steel pipes and harpoons thudding against the car.<br /> Frank's henchman yanked open the door of Wesley's car, poised to stab Wesley with a harpoon, but Wesley swiftly exited the vehicle.<br /> With a firm step on the ground, he launched a swift hit.<br /> A muffled sound echoed as the henchman was hit away.<br /> "What are you looking at?" Frank noticed his henchmen were all staring at him. "All of you, attack together and take him down!"<br /> As he commanded, the henchmen Frank brought with him surged forward.<br /> The taxi driver, trembling, took out his phone to call the police, but Frank glared at him. "I am Frank Reed from Yeadeo Harbor. If you dare, go ahead and make that call."<br /> Frank, leveraging his sister Taylor's status, had been causing trouble in Yeadeo Harbor, and no one dared to provoke him.<br /> Upon hearing Frank's name, the driver hastily put away his phone. "Mr. Reed, I'll just check the time, you guys continue."<br /> "Huh!" Frank snorted coldly, casting his gaze towards the surrounded Wesley.<br /> The sounds of thuds continued to ring out incessantly. Because Wesley was completely surrounded, Frank was unable to see the situation inside clearly, but he could imagine it. After all, in Frank's mind, the henchmen under his command were not to be trifled with.<br /> "Hit him hard for me!"<br /> Another muffled sound and a figure flew out. At that moment, Frank finally saw the situation clearly, and his face turned pale.<br /> Frank knew that Wesley liked to practice martial arts, but he had never expected Wesley to be this skilled. It wasn't Wesley who had been beaten, but his own men by Wesley alone.<br /> Frantically, Frank turned and ran to retrieve a crossbow from the car.<br /> "Clear the way." Frank bellowed, aiming the crossbow at Wesley.<br /> "You scumbag, you think you can fight? Move one more time, and I'll end your life! Surrender!"<br /> Wesley, holding a wooden box, stared at Frank. Ignoring the crossbow in his hand, Wesley said, "Tell your henchmen to back off, or you'll all see the light from above!"<br /> "You're really good at pretending to be tough." Frank took two steps forward. "See the light? Move a muscle and see if I can end your life or not! If you don't have the guts, apologize now!"<br /> Wesley turned his head and looked at the approaching cars, with two expensive ones in the lead, two more in the rear, and another one in the middle.<br /> "Keep acting tough, and I'll put a hole in your head." Frank spoke while glancing at the five cars. "What, looking for help?"<br /> "Let me tell you, those who ride in these cars are not the kind of weaklings like you who rely on connections. With me here, in Yeadeo's social hierarchy, even those who ride in such cars wouldn't dare meddle in this matter. And let me make it clear, without my sister, you're nothing."<br /> <br /> Chapter 4<br /> As Frank's words faded, the five cars came to a halt.<br /> A bodyguard opened the door of the one in the middle, revealing a dazzling pair of shining shoes catching everyone's eye.<br /> The shining shoe encased a beautiful foot. Above, the skirt's hem was adorned with lace.<br /> Then, like a fairy stepping out of a painting, she appeared before everyone's eyes.<br /> The lady was beautiful!<br /> Frank was mesmerized. Ever since the Reed family rose to prominence, he had been surrounded by ladies, but compared to the elegant lady before him, they were worlds apart.<br /> It wasn't just a difference in appearance but an incomparable gap in demeanor.<br /> The lady descending from the Maybach seemed like a celestial being untouched by mortal affairs.<br /> The embodiment of a fairy in the mundane world.<br /> She simply stood there after getting out of the car, perfectly embodying what it meant to be graceful and elegant.<br /> The lady glanced at Wesley, then at Frank.<br /> Frank grinned, saying, "May I have the honor of knowing the name of this esteemed lady? I am Frank..."<br /> The lady spoke calmly. "Disrespect Mr. Harrington, and you're done for."<br /> Her bodyguards, unfazed by Frank's crossbow, swiftly overwhelmed him, sending him crashing to the ground.<br /> The henchmen who had come with Frank, previously defeated by Wesley, now scrambled to their feet and fled in all directions.<br /> Who would dare provoke someone who could afford such a car?<br /> "My sister is Taylor Reed, the chairperson of Reed Group," Frank shouted, clutching his head.<br /> Ignoring him, one of the bodyguards dragged him to the roadside grass while another used a belt to tighten around Frank's neck, exerting pressure.<br /> "Enough, a lesson is all that's needed." Wesley spoke calmly, and only when the lady gestured did the bodyguards release Frank.<br /> Frank lay there, already unconscious.<br /> Wesley turned to the lady. "Who are you?"<br /> "I am Mia Roberts, the general manager of Vinver Business Alliance's Yeadeo branch." She looked at Wesley and continued, "Mr. Harrington, my father mentioned that you have miraculous healing skills and earnestly requested your assistance. A generous reward awaits."<br /> Wesley furrowed his brow slightly, thinking, "There are indeed people who recognize my abilities and status, yet I've rarely intervened in the past five years. Today, shortly after I divorced Taylor, she is here. Whose arrangement is this?"<br /> "Mr. Harrington, my father also mentioned that you are benevolent and has raised the banner of compassion among healers, serving as a role model and benchmark for all in the medical field."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "You have a way with words. Tell me the specifics."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, please get in the car first. I will explain in detail on the way."<br /> The phrase "compassionate healer" held significant weight for Wesley, who had saved countless lives from the brink of death.<br /> Without further ado, he got into the car.<br /> Inside, after Mia brewed coffee for Wesley, she began. "Vinver Business Alliance has a wide range of business operations, and I mainly oversee the health supplement sector, which has seen some success in recent years.<br /> "Recently, Quinn Kingsley started using our medicines, and now there's an accident."<br /> As she spoke, Mia kept her gaze fixed on Wesley.<br /> Quinn, the undisputed leader of Yeadeo, was a figure of immense influence.<br /> Upon hearing this name, Wesley showed no particular reaction. "If the city's leader faces issues with your products, it is indeed a concern. Let's go and see."<br /> With just a sentence, Wesley leaned back in his seat, closing his eyes to rest.<br /> Mia was secretly alarmed, thinking, "He knows who Quinn is, yet he seems indifferent. Who is this Wesley, really? No wonder Dad has instructed me to find a way to win his favor." Mia's inner resistance toward Wesley quietly shifted.<br /> Wesley had piqued her curiosity.<br /> As the vehicle was moving, Wesley's phone rang.<br /> Wesley opened his eyes and took out his phone to see Taylor calling.<br /> Pressing the answer button, he asked, "What's the matter?"<br /> On the other end of the line, Taylor, driving towards Feidgeuo Manor, had a grim expression.<br /> She thought, "Has Wesley ever spoken to me in such a cold tone before? Is he really this heartless right after our divorce?"<br /> Already furious, she snapped. "Wesley, do you even consider yourself a human being?<br /> "Today, not only did you lay hands on my mother, but you also had someone attack my brother. Do you not remember our past at all?"<br /> Wesley calmly replied, "Do we have a past to remember?"<br /> "You truly are a heartless scumbag, just as my mother said. You are an ungrateful and vicious person I raised for five years. Even a pet would wag its tail at me!"<br /> Taylor wanted to continue her tirade, but the phone line had already turned busy.<br /> This only fueled her anger further.<br /> Just now, she had received a call from Frank's underlings, informing her that Wesley had sent people to attack Frank and even intended to end him.<br /> Taylor wanted to demand answers, but...<br /> As Taylor was clutching her fists, her gaze turned icy.<br /> After a moment, she picked up her phone again. "Wesley, you are so narrow-minded. You have no ambition. Any lady would steer clear of you."<br /> "Just because I dumped you, you are doing this on purpose to make me feel sick. Pretending to be aloof and seeking revenge? Do you even deserve it?"<br /> "In Yeadeo, squashing you would be as easy as squashing an ant. You're asking for it! If anything happens to my brother, I will make you wish you were ending!"<br /> Her furious voice message echoed in the car.<br /> Wesley chuckled and put away his phone.<br /> Beside him, Mia seemed contemplative. Before coming, she had already ordered a swift investigation into Wesley.<br /> She was curious, thinking, "How could someone valued by my father could be the one 'marrying into' the Reed family."<br /> Being tactful, Mia chose not to ask and pretended not to have heard.<br /> After about forty minutes, they arrived at the Kingsley Manor.<br /> The Kingsley family members, upon seeing Mia alight from the car, all wore grim expressions.<br /> Mia greeted them with a smile, "Everyone, this is Wesley Harrington, Mr. Harrington, the miraculous healer I specially invited to treat Mr. Kingsley."<br /> "Him? The gent who married into the Reed family?"<br /> "A miraculous healer? Is he even worthy? Are healers so worthless now?"<br /> "A useless gent who mooches off of the Reed family? How dare he call himself a miraculous healer? Truly a joke among all jokes."<br /> Chapter 5<br /> <br /> Amanda Kingsley, Quinn's granddaughter, stared coldly at Wesley and Mia.<br /> This lady, dressed in a smart suit, also held significant fame in Yeadeo, overseeing the region's business activities, including investment attraction and various local business negotiations.<br /> Amanda had a favorable view of Taylor, who had risen swiftly in recent times, and they had interacted frequently.<br /> She was aware of Wesley's existence and had advised Taylor to part ways with him early on.<br /> But Amanda never imagined that Mia would bring someone like Wesley, a complete waste, and claim he was a miraculous healer.<br /> Glaring at Mia, she said, "Mia, once my grandfather is well, it's best for your Roberts family to leave Yeadeo."<br /> "As for you..." She glanced at Wesley. "I will advise Taylor to divorce you. You have deceived Taylor's feelings and now shamelessly made your way into my family. You are a despicable creature."<br /> After reprimanding Mia and Wesley, she turned to an elderly gent beside her, and her tone and attitude completely changed. "Mr. Phillips, sorry to trouble you. My grandfather is inside, please."<br /> Mia looked at the elderly gent, who was already in his twilight years, feeling deeply shocked.<br /> Scott Phillips, the 38th generation heir of the Healing Clinic, was now ninety-two years old.<br /> Renowned as a miraculous healer, he was a respected figure in the medical community of Yeadeo and even nationally.<br /> He no longer conducted consultations personally due to his old age. Mia had visited him specifically to pay her respects once she had arrived in Yeadeo but had not met Scott.<br /> She never expected Scott to appear in person. It was understandable, as Quinn held a prominent position in the city. Despite the profound influence of the Phillips family, they still had to show respect to Quinn.<br /> Mia looked at Wesley, feeling conflicted and thinking, "Dad has confidently claimed that Wesley has extraordinary abilities, but does he really?"<br /> She harbored doubts, but out of propriety, Mia spoke. "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the trouble."<br /> Wesley smiled, "It's fine. As long as the person can be healed."<br /> His open-mindedness impressed Mia.<br /> After about half an hour, Amanda emerged from the room. All eyes instantly turned towards her.<br /> It was evident that Amanda had wailed out, with traces of tears still visible.<br /> "Amanda, how is it?" A middle-aged gent anxiously asked her.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family who had rushed back also focused their attention on her.<br /> "Mr. Phillips said that there's little hope of recovery. He could only use acupuncture to wake grandfather for half an hour. When grandfather wakes up, let's all go in and see if he has any final instructions."<br /> Everyone was shocked.<br /> "How could this be?"<br /> "Is Mr. Phillips also helpless?"<br /> The members of the Kingsley family found it hard to accept this reality, especially since Quinn had always treated his juniors well.<br /> The thought of Quinn departing saddened some, and tears silently fell.<br /> Publicly, Quinn's status was the foundation of the Kingsley family's prominence in Yeadeo.<br /> If Quinn were to pass away, the Kingsley family would undoubtedly decline.<br /> The atmosphere within the Kingsley family was somber.<br /> Amanda looked at her family members, opened her mouth, but said nothing, silently turning back into the room.<br /> "Stop crying," A middle-aged gent said sternly, "Dad wouldn't want to see you all in tears. If he's really leaving, we mustn't let him worry about us. Pull yourselves together."<br /> After these words, the middle-aged gent also entered the room.<br /> The younger members of the Kingsley family wiped their tears vigorously, trying to force smiles, but in truth, they looked better at crying than pretending to be happy.<br /> Mia's spirit plummeted as she realized the gravity of the situation. Even if an ordinary person passed away from consuming health supplements, it spelled big trouble for those who sold them. And when the deceased happened to be Quinn, the stakes were even higher.<br /> She understood that it would be difficult for this branch to stay in Yeadeo, and even the headquarters might face repercussions.<br /> "Let's go in and have a look." Wesley glanced at Mia. "There might still be a chance."<br /> "Ah..." Mia stared at Wesley in surprise. Seeing him already heading towards the room, she quickly followed suit.<br /> Inside the room, the members of the Kingsley family stood around the mattress, maintaining a certain distance.<br /> Scott lit the alcohol lamp and took out the needles, his expression solemn.<br /> He looked at the members of the Kingsley family. "Think about what you want to say to Mr. Kingsley later. Once you're ready, let me know, and then I'll proceed with the acupuncture."<br /> As he said this, tears welled up in many eyes.<br /> "If you don't mind, let me take a look. I have a way." Wesley spoke up, drawing everyone's attention.<br /> Amanda's face darkened. "Who let you in? Get out!"<br /> "Mia, have you lost your mind? Tricked by this trash and actually brought him here as a miracle healer. Get out with him! I'll settle the score with you in a couple of days."<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, at a loss for words.<br /> "Even Mr. Phillips is unable to reverse the situation. What use are you? Get out." Another younger member of the Kingsley family angrily rebuked.<br /> The middle-aged gent added, "We're in no mood right now. You better leave immediately."<br /> "I understand your narrow-mindedness," Wesley continued, "But as a healer, once I see a patient, I cannot stand by and watch him draw his last breath."<br /> "Wesley, you're quite the charlatan. Do you really want to be gone right now?" Amanda's voice was filled with anger.<br /> "Amanda, let me say a few words," Scott interjected, and Amanda fell silent.<br /> Looking at Wesley, Scott began. "Young lad, at my age, I've seen a lot and have a broad perspective. Today, however, I find it hard to remain indifferent. I practiced medicine from the age of sixteen until I stopped seeing patients for a total of seventy years."<br /> "I've saved countless patients from various illnesses. I never easily declare a patient's fate, nor do I believe I have the right to do so."<br /> "But from your recent remarks, it seems like you're accusing me of such actions. Young people wanting to make a name for themselves by stepping on the shoulders of their predecessors, I can understand."<br /> "But this kind of behavior displeases me."<br /> "My displeasure, what does it mean to you? Do you understand?"<br /> "Even if you are a healer, your career will be ruined because of this."<br /> Chapter 6 <br /> In the face of Scott's veiled threats, Wesley simply smiled and brushed them off.<br /> Looking at Scott, he asked, "I've always focused on the issue at hand rather than attacking individuals. I have a few questions for you. If you can't administer the needles, how long do you think Quinn can hold on?"<br /> "Seven days, but he will remain unconscious," Scott replied bluntly.<br /> "Then let me ask you this, is there anyone in the world with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "Outrageous," Amanda coldly interjected, "Mr. Phillips is unparalleled in his medical expertise."<br /> Scott glanced at Amanda. "Amanda, let me handle this question."<br /> Continuing to address Wesley, he said, "I don't underestimate myself, nor do I overestimate. There are countless talented individuals in the world, like stars in the sky. I may not dare claim to be the best in medical skills, but those who surpass me are few."<br /> "That means there are some," Wesley calmly remarked, causing Scott's expression to shift slightly, "Indeed, there are."<br /> "Then let me ask you this. Do you think within seven days, the Kingsley family won't find someone with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "If they do find someone, do you believe there is an illness that you cannot cure, but this person can?"<br /> Wesley's questions were sharp and resounding.<br /> Scott's face changed once more as he was rendered speechless.<br /> "Even if there is, that person will never be you." Amanda's face turned icy. "Now get out. Don't spout your eloquence here. Your deceitful behavior is repulsive."<br /> "Your understanding of me is merely hearsay, isn't it?" Wesley retorted, his gaze mocking Amanda, "Has your background and education taught you such arrogance and prejudice?"<br /> "Arrogance?" Amanda's face grew colder as she disdainfully looked at Wesley. "Prejudice?<br /> "Did I say something wrong just now? You are nothing but stagnant waste, a parasite living off others. If it weren't for Taylor, you would have starved on the streets long ago."<br /> "Relying on sweet words, deceiving Taylor. She, with her kind heart, can't bear to divorce you, but don't push your luck. If it weren't for Taylor's sake, you would have been sent out long ago."<br /> Scott interrupted Amanda, "Amanda, although I find this lad a bit annoying, what he said does hold some truth. There are indeed individuals with better medical skills than me. Your grandfather can hold on for seven days. Try reaching out to see if someone can come over. I'll help you make connections."<br /> "If it really doesn't work out after seven days, I'll administer the needles to your grandfather. However, at that point, I can only buy you three minutes."<br /> As soon as Scott spoke, the faces of the Kingsley family members grew even more solemn. True healers were rare and not easily summoned.<br /> While the Kingsley family had connections in Yeadeo, their influence waned outside of it.<br /> "Mr. Phillips, please administer the needles. Life has its ups and downs, and we understand that. Just buy my father a bit more time." The middle-aged gent spoke up.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family nodded in agreement.<br /> Amanda looked at Scott. "Mr. Phillips, please."<br /> "In that case, please have everyone unrelated leave. I need silence," Scott calmly stated.<br /> Amanda glared at Wesley, her eyes speaking volumes without a word.<br /> The unrelated individuals were, naturally, Wesley and Mia.<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, intending to leave, but she suddenly hesitated.<br /> Instead of leaving, Wesley moved forward.<br /> "What are you doing?" A young member of the Kingsley family stepped forward with a stern expression, pushing Wesley.<br /> In one swift motion, Wesley executed a clean shoulder throw, toppling the young gent to the ground, his own expression turning cold.<br /> "A bunch of fools! If it weren't for my teacher's teachings about not turning a blind eye to those in need, I wouldn't bother with you ignorant lot," Wesley remarked with disdain.<br /> As Wesley effortlessly took down one individual from the Kingsley family, the others seemed slow to react.<br /> By the time they realized what was happening, Wesley had already picked up the needle next to Scott and casually flicked his wrist.<br /> The needle flew out of his hand, piercing Quinn's temple, followed by a second needle, a third needle, and so on.<br /> "What are you doing? Stop!" Amanda's voice rose in urgency, echoed by the rest of the Kingsley family members who rushed forward to restrain Wesley.<br /> "Stay back, everyone. Wait." Scott suddenly stood up, blocking the others. "Let him try."<br /> Amanda and the others were left dumbfounded, thinking, "What does this mean?"<br /> Despite their confusion, they heeded Scott's words.<br /> After Scott stopped the members of the Kingsley family, he fixed his gaze on Wesley.<br /> Wesley proceeded to use eighteen needles in succession, symbolizing the levels of pain.<br /> Even if someone had descended into the depths of hell, they must be brought back.<br /> The final needle, also piercing a vital point, caused Quinn's body to tremble suddenly, resonating with the previous eighteen needles.<br /> Scott's eyes widened, his body trembling slightly. His reaction left Amanda and the others even more puzzled, but none dared to interrupt.<br /> Moments later, Wesley placed a palm on Quinn's chest, causing all eighteen needles to be shaken off. When all the needles landed on the ground, the part of the skin where the needles had pierced turned dark.<br /> Wesley then dragged Quinn to the edge of the mattress, flipped him over with his head facing downwards, and gave him a firm pat on the back.<br /> Quinn spat out a mouthful of black liquid. When Wesley flipped him back to lie flat, his complexion had regained some color.<br /> "The Hand of Darkness... It's the Hand of Darkness!" Scott exclaimed with excitement, his body quivering, "It's the Hand that descends into the dark world, snatching people from the hands of the Evil!"<br /> "You do have some knowledge, recognizing the Hand of Darkness." Wesley glanced at Scott.<br /> Scott's gaze towards Wesley had undergone a drastic change. He respectfully clasped his hands together.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thirty years ago, I had the honor of attending a teaching conference held by Mr. Vanderbilt. I saw the Hand of Darkness, but my limited aptitude only allowed me to grasp the basics."<br /> "I have been blind and ignorant. I apologize for my earlier offenses. Please forgive me, Mr. Harrington."<br /> The Mr. Vanderbilt Scott referred to was Wesley's teacher, Ulysses Vanderbilt. He generously imparted his skills to others, but the ability to learn depended on one's innate talent.<br /> In this world, few could learn Ulysses' skills.<br /> Scott had been fortunate to receive guidance from Ulysses, which had elevated his medical skills. However, the Hand of Darkness, a miraculous ability, was beyond his comprehension.<br /> Wesley smiled faintly, "Your actions earlier are understandable. I appreciate your words."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you must be an exceptional disciple of Mr. Vanderbilt, possessing unparalleled magnanimity. Impressive," Scott continued.<br /> "Enough with the flattery at your age."<br /> "You are mistaken, Mr. Harrington. Every word I speak is sincere."<br /> Mia, Amanda, and the others stood bewildered by the unfolding situation.<br /> "Mr. Phillips... he... he..." Amanda's words faltered.<br /> Scott turned to the members of the Kingsley family. "Meeting Mr. Harrington was Quinn's luck. His symptoms have been cured by Mr. Harrington. With a few days of rest, he will be fine."<br /> The waste Taylor had previously said was called Mr. Harrington by Scott!<br /> Recalling their previous attitudes, Amanda hurriedly apologized, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> The members of the Kingsley family all apologized in unison, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> Chapter 7 <br /> With a faint smile, Wesley remarked, "As family members of a patient, your actions earlier are understandable. There's no need for such formality."<br /> Amanda's perplexity deepened as she thought, "Where is the cowardly waste that Taylor described? This display of magnanimity and breadth is far from it."<br /> Mia, too, felt a shiver of realization, thinking, "No wonder Dad has insisted on my proximity to Wesley.<br /> This guy..."<br /> She gazed at Wesley, her curiosity piqued, a sense of exploration stirring within her.<br /> "Mia has brought you here, Mr. Harrington, to cure my grandfather. The Kingsley family will never forget this act. However, considering that my grandfather's ailment stemmed from the health supplements produced by the Vinver Business Alliance, we will be conducting an investigation into it."<br /> Amanda continued, looking at Wesley, "What do you think... of this approach?"<br /> It was Mia who had invited Wesley, so Amanda had grown wiser, refraining from asking for a direct punishment of the Vinver Business Alliance.<br /> As Mia heard Amanda's words, her heart skipped a beat, realizing trouble was brewing.<br /> "On the way here, Ms. Roberts briefed me on the situation. You conducted experiments on mice, correct?"<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes, the health supplements we received were exclusively provided by the Roberts family. There were no similar cases on the market, so we used mice for testing.<br /> "All the mice that ingested this supplement were gone."<br /> She looked at Mia and added, her voice turning colder, "Before the experiment, I specifically contacted Mia to inquire about the testing methods during the development phase, which involved mice.<br /> "There have been individuals eyeing my grandfather's position, some even wishing for his demise. I never imagined that the Vinver Business Alliance, which I attracted for investment, would become a weapon in someone else's hands."<br /> "Do you have any of the remaining medicine?" Wesley inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes."<br /> "Bring some over."<br /> Immediately, someone fetched the medicine. After it was brought to him, Wesley took out a supplement and swallowed it directly.<br /> This scene left Amanda and the others dumbfounded.<br /> Scott, too, was bewildered. "Mr. Harrington, what are you doing?"<br /> Wesley smiled, "Just proving that this medicine is not toxic."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thank you," Mia thanked sincerely, feeling like crying at that moment.<br /> Amanda, with a puzzled expression, looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, are you suggesting that my grandfather's condition wasn't caused by the Vinver Business Alliance's medicine? What about the mice?"<br /> The rest were equally puzzled.<br /> "Yes, but not entirely," Wesley said, leaving everyone even more bewildered.<br /> Mia's emotions were like a rollercoaster ride, from relief to immediate tension.<br /> "This medicine itself is not toxic, but when taken with another substance made from a certain plant, it results in Quinn's condition. The mice would die immediately, while humans could endure a few more days."<br /> Wesley continued to explain, "The plant used in this concoction is originally meant for crafting slow-acting toxins, not for human consumption."<br /> Looking at Amanda, Wesley said, "During this period, whoever had access to your grandfather and the mice will better understand why these events occurred."<br /> The gaze of members of the Kingsley family immediately focused on a lady.<br /> Amanda, somewhat incredulous, looked at her. "Can you offer an explanation?"<br /> The lady was the wife of Amanda's deceased brother. She found it hard to accept, as did the rest of the Kingsley family.<br /> This lady had been named the exemplary lady who served her family well this year, not due to her connection with the Kingsley family but because she genuinely deserved it.<br /> "What do you mean? Amanda, what explanation do you want from me?"<br /> The lady stared at Amanda. "Am I the only one who had access to Grandfather and the mice? You, and you... and you, who didn't have access?"<br /> "You all claim to treat me as family. Since I married into the Kingsley family, I have worked diligently, contributing my share even if not acknowledged."<br /> "Amanda, it has been over a year since your brother passed, and I never once considered remarrying. Now, just because of his words, you demand an explanation from me?"<br /> Pointing at Wesley, the lady questioned, "Just because he accuses me of poisoning, you suspect me? Tell me, did I poison him?" The lady glared at Wesley.<br /> "I am merely analyzing the facts. As for concluding this case, it's not within my purview," Wesley addressed the members of the Kingsley family, saying, "You should conduct a thorough investigation into this matter.<br /> "I will write a prescription. Have Quinn take it on time, and he will recover in seven days."<br /> Amanda hurried to fetch paper and pen while Wesley prepared the prescription. Once done, he was ready to leave.<br /> Amanda said hurriedly, "Mr. Harrington, I've already made arrangements for lunch."<br /> "No need," Wesley smiled.<br /> The Kingsley family sought to build closer ties with Wesley, given his extraordinary medical skills. Wesley was well aware of this.<br /> Looking at Amanda and the others, Wesley remarked, "In the future, if you encounter any difficult medical cases that others cannot solve, seek me out. Remember, cases others cannot solve."<br /> The gaze of the Kingsley family members toward Wesley changed once again. Many renowned healers had eccentric personalities and were difficult to engage.<br /> They hadn't expected Wesley to possess such remarkable medical skills without any airs.<br /> As Wesley prepared to depart, the members of the Kingsley family did not dare to insist on his stay, so they accompanied him outside.<br /> "Oh, how could we forget such an important matter? Amanda, what about the consultation fee?" The middle-aged gent inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the oversight. Please wait a moment." Amanda hurried back inside and soon returned with a bank card in hand.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, there's one million dollars in here."<br /> Without hesitation, Wesley accepted the bank card and boarded Mia's car.<br /> During the journey, Mia boldly looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, you've helped me immensely. Can I treat you to a meal? Don't decline in a hurry. It's not a fancy restaurant, but it will leave you wanting more. It's a small place on the street, with only eight plates of noodles served each day, each plate containing different ingredients.<br /> "I managed to secure a reservation. Are you interested?"<br /> Wesley thought, "Eight Plates of Noodles? Ah, Aaron's restaurant. It has been a while since I visited those old friends."<br /> Wesley nodded. "Let's go then."<br /> The restaurant, Eight Plates of Noodles, was located on Chanxold Street near the Yeadeo First Central Hospital.<br /> The establishment was small, serving only eight plates of noodles each day at a price of 10 thousand dollars each. Vernoic's television culinary program had specifically covered this incident.<br /> Reservations were a must to secure a plate.<br /> The restaurant's owner had a mysterious background. While the specifics were unknown, a high-ranking noble from the capital of Vernoic, Kingsland, had caused a scene there once.<br /> He had attempted to force his way in without a reservation. Although this incident hadn't been reported, rumors suggested that a garbage truck had to be called to dispose of the intruder's remains, as he was too shattered to be removed by conventional means.<br /> Since then, no one dared to cause trouble.<br /> On their way, Mia introduced Wesley to the background story.<br /> "Mr. Turner, two plates of noodles." Mia called out once they arrived.<br /> Aaron Turner didn't respond but visibly paused upon seeing Wesley beside Mia.<br /> A faint smile appeared on his usually stoic face. Though the flesh on the face seemed stiff, it was indeed a smile. "Coming right up."<br /> Mia glanced at Aaron with a hint of surprise, thinking, "When did he become so warm and enthusiastic? His tone seemed a bit agitated earlier, didn't it?"<br /> Soon enough, Aaron brought two plates of noodles to the table. One steaming hot and the other devoid of any warmth.<br /> As Mia observed Aaron placing the plate without steam in front of Wesley, her expression changed slightly.<br /> It was a plate of instant noodles having soaked in cold water, with the seasoning barely dissolved.<br /> She felt a sense of panic. Mia had wanted to leave a good impression on Wesley, which was why she had chosen this place.<br /> However, Aaron had served such a plate of noodles.<br /> She dared not question Aaron. The type of noodles served here was not determined by the guests but by Aaron's mood.<br /> "This girl named Mia is quite something, living up to her name, and quite kind-hearted," Aaron remarked, looking at Wesley.<br /> "Get lost," Wesley retorted, using his fork to pick up the noodles and devouring them.<br /> Mia's face turned pale instantly. Disrespecting Aaron was akin to risking Wesley's life.<br /> To her astonishment, Aaron chuckled, tears welling up in his eyes.<br /> He wiped them away. "Alright, I'll leave you to your meal."<br /> Before departing, he gave Mia a thumbs-up. "Seize the opportunity."<br /> The eight plates of noodles symbolized the eight comrades who had faced life and life-threatening situations together.<br /> Wesley ate voraciously. Initially, they had only one pack of instant noodles to share among the eight of them, forcing them to divide it.<br /> Despite the circumstances, they devoured the noodles joyfully.<br /> Aaron had promised that once they survived, each one would have the most delicious plate of noodles.<br /> However, five of the eight had perished.<br /> Wesley had come dangerously close to life-threatening situations, but managed to cling to life.<br /> For him, the plate of noodles was not food but the bond of friendship that had shielded him from harm.<br /> "Do you... know each other?" Mia couldn't help but ask, her voice low and curious.<br /> "Some things are better left unknown," Wesley replied.<br /> Mia nodded in understanding, falling silent as they continued eating noodles. She couldn't help stealing glances at Wesley throughout the meal.<br /> This gent had piqued her curiosity even more.<br /> "Wesley, I see. No wonder you agreed to the divorce so readily. You've already found someone else outside."<br /> A sharp voice interrupted their meal.<br /> Taylor approached with a cold expression, accompanied by Henry. | Adoread Romance story | 106 | https://facebook.com/61557113391558 | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1713250800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1846723 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446608 | 1735168083 | 890 | 3517927318517741 | 1 | 1.4597385313029E+15 | 1713337200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 235254296344339 | 0 | Adoread Romance story | 120207848358760113 | play.google.com | Install now | NONE | video | HOT BOOK✨Tap the button to read more👉 | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.adoread.book | 1713261158 | 2.3525429634434E+14 | Adoread Romance story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435976503_3758096711115915_5682349106824582573_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HCqRHJrSYgIQ7kNvgH1LHyY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCepmfcrxrJW0pxccFOz7zhy5-1NyjW5u7Ngh6ci3jScg&oe=6663FE1F | person_profile | 0 | Adoread Romance story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435975666_232638956574544_8668408530515484264_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vIVdpIjBkH4Q7kNvgH-PIyV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDRFlnXXNisCaDqbQxuU6ihpMMRPkVrXoYOofzq_Um8tg&oe=6663FEF3 | 0 | 3 | Chapter 1 <br /> "Wesley, are you trying to harm me? You useless piece of trash, can't even make a decent cup of coffee, can you?"<br /> Madison Blair lifted her coffee cup and splashed it directly onto Wesley Harrington's face.<br /> "What are you looking at, you spineless waste? Your name sounds so lofty? I might as well call you a waste."<br /> Glancing at the grotesque expression of his wife's mother, Wesley pulled out his phone to check the time.<br /> Exactly twelve o'clock. It had been five full years since he married Taylor Reed.<br /> The appointed time had come.<br /> He had fulfilled his promise, safeguarding the Reed family for five years, transforming them from a family living off fishing to one perceived as affluent by the common folk.<br /> Wiping the coffee off his face, he turned and walked away.<br /> "Where do you think you're going? Go fetch some more coffee," Madison shouted.<br /> "Madison, didn't you say this waste is obedient at home, doing whatever he's told? I don't think he's taking it lying down."<br /> Madison grew angrier. "Wesley, you stop right there. My family has fed and housed you. If you dare disobey, I'll have you thrown out!"<br /> Ignoring her, Wesley continued downstairs.<br /> "When Taylor comes back, I'll immediately have you two divorced. Do you hear me? Stay right there," Madison threatened, "I'll let you know your place today."<br /> Grabbing a golf club, Madison swiftly charged towards Wesley.<br /> Seeing Wesley heading downstairs, she swung the club viciously at his back.<br /> Without turning back, Wesley gently sidestepped.<br /> Losing her balance, Madison tumbled forward, rolling down the stairs with a series of thumps.<br /> "Ouch... it hurts, it hurts so much!"<br /> As Madison reached the ground floor, she wailed in pain and her sister immediately rushed to her.<br /> "Wesley, what have you done? How dare you hit my sister!" Madison's sister hurried down, checking on Madison's condition.<br /> Wesley remained silent, observing the scene.<br /> "Quick, call Taylor. Tell her to come back. Today, she must divorce this waste." Madison glared at Wesley. "How dare you hit me? Not only will I let Taylor divorce you, but I'll make sure you leave in disgrace."<br /> "Mum, what's wrong?" At that moment, a gent and a lady walked in.<br /> The lady was Taylor, Madison's daughter.<br /> She ran towards Madison.<br /> As Madison pointed at Wesley, tears streamed down her face. "Taylor, he hit me, he hit me! When you're not home, he changes his attitude, scolding and hitting me in the slightest displeasure. He even pushed me down the stairs just now. Alexis can testify."<br /> Madison's sister, Alexis Blair, chimed in. "Yes, Wesley, this trash not only hit your mother but also threatened to hit me too. We cannot tolerate such trash."<br /> "Taylor, I have been telling you to divorce him for years. You've been supporting him, treating him like a Lord at home, but he's an ungrateful wolf in sheep's clothing."<br /> Helping Madison up, Taylor noticed the scrapes on Madison's arms and legs, her expression turning cold.<br /> "Wesley, why did you hit my mother? You better give me an explanation."<br /> Wesley looked at Taylor, his wife.<br /> Five years had passed, and she had never shown him kindness.<br /> Taylor dressed impeccably, a paragon of a successful lady, with a face that could be deemed angelic, yet whether her heart was as angelic remained a mystery.<br /> Her figure, too, left countless men yearning.<br /> For five years, Wesley had thought he might develop feelings for this lady, but in reality, it never happened.<br /> "There are surveillance cameras in the house," Wesley stated calmly before descending the stairs into the hallway.<br /> Despite residing in a three-story villa, Wesley's living quarters were confined to the stairwell.<br /> He harbored no resentment towards this arrangement. It was merely a promise. It was just that Taylor failed to appreciate him.<br /> This home held little value that he wished to cling onto.<br /> Retrieving a wooden box from beneath his pillow, Wesley extracted two documents. Casting a fleeting glance at the modest abode he had called home for five years, Wesley smiled faintly.<br /> He thought, "Finally... I'm free."<br /> Pushing the door ajar, Wesley was met by Taylor's piercing gaze. "I've reviewed the surveillance footage. Yes, my mother intended to strike you, but even if she did, what difference would it make?"<br /> "She's a lady. How much could her blows hurt you? Why did you dodge?"<br /> "If you hadn't dodged, my mother wouldn't have tumbled down." Wesley stared at Taylor, unable to comprehend her thought process.<br /> He had no interest in engaging in these arguments. Handing over the two documents to Taylor, he remarked, "The divorce agreement. I've already signed it. Take a look. I'm leaving with nothing."<br /> "With your current influence, there's no need for you to visit the city hall. Someone will handle it for you, right?"<br /> Madison was taken aback. She swiftly snatched the divorce agreement, flipping through it hastily.<br /> The contents were indeed straightforward. Both parties willingly divorced, with Wesley relinquishing all claims and having already signed.<br /> In an instant, Madison's pain seemed to dissipate. "Taylor, sign it quickly. Sign it."<br /> Taylor was still in a daze.<br /> She pondered.<br /> "A divorce agreement? Wesley has already prepared a divorce agreement. On what grounds?"<br /> "What gives him the right to initiate a divorce? All these years, he's done nothing at home, lacking any ambition. Always practicing martial arts, what right does he have to seek a divorce?"<br /> "If anyone should initiate it, it should be me. Moreover, now that I'm back to discussing this matter with him. Could it be that word got out, and Wesley, for the sake of his pride, rushed to prepare a divorce agreement first?"<br /> "It must be so, but... No!"<br /> "Wanting to leave with nothing, is he retreating to advance? As the chairman of the Reed Group, how could I be served with a divorce?"<br /> "Hey Wesley, I never expected this from you. Have I not treated you well enough? You seek a divorce, attempting to turn your retreat into advance, aiming to embarrass me?"<br /> Taylor glared at Wesley. "I'm telling you, it's impossible."<br /> Snatching the divorce agreement, she tore it to shreds.<br /> "Taylor, what are you doing? Such a great opportunity. Why not just sign it and let him leave?" Madison grew anxious.<br /> "Mom, I do intend to divorce this trash, but the decision must come from me. I returned specifically to address this matter."<br /> With that, Taylor produced two documents. "Wesley, remember that it's me who's divorcing you. It's me who no longer wants you. Initially, out of marital obligation, I had considered offering you some compensation. Now, you don't even need to think about it. Sign the divorce agreement and leave my home."<br /> Wesley offered a faint smile as he accepted the divorce agreement.<br /> "What are you laughing at?" Taylor demanded angrily.<br /> Wesley's smile seemed to mock her, fueling her rage.<br /> Ignoring her entirely, Wesley signed the document and handed it over.<br /> "What are you laughing at? Answer me! Who do you think you are?" Taylor roared once more.<br /> Wesley glanced at her before striding towards the exit.<br /> "Stop!" The gent who had accompanied Taylor stepped forward, blocking Wesley's path. "Taylor asked you a question, and... Your previous attitude displeased me. Apologize to Taylor, or I'll have you leave in disgrace!"<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 <br /> "Yes, let him leave in disgrace. He thought he could just hit me and walk away so easily," Madison joined in the commotion, also noticing the gent blocking Wesley's path.<br /> Madison had a keen interest in luxury goods, having frequented various high-end establishments over the years as the Reed family's living conditions improved. The gent was wearing an expensive watch and dressed head to toe in high-end luxury brands.<br /> Seeing Madison's gaze, the gent spoke. "Rest assured, today Wesley must pay the price."<br /> The gent introduced himself, looking at Wesley, "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Henry Clark, the eldest son of the Clark family and the general manager of the Clark Group in the North District."<br /> "From now on, I will accompany Taylor on her journey of life, and I will not allow anyone to bully her."<br /> "My identity carries weight. You should understand that. Now, apologize to Taylor. Apologize! Did you hear me? Apologize!"<br /> Madison's eyes lit up. She hadn't expected the gent before her to hold such a high status. She continued to shout, "Did you hear that? Taylor will be with Mr. Clark from now on. Apologize now."<br /> Wesley glanced at Henry, then at Taylor. He thought, "Have they been together all along?" Wesley had wanted to ask but decided against it because there was no need. He simply gave them a glance and continued walking towards the exit.<br /> "Are you ignoring me?" Henry's face turned cold as he reached out to grab Wesley. Henry's hand froze mid-air as he received a solid hit.<br /> "Until I sign the divorce papers, Taylor and I are still wife and husband. I don't care to investigate whether you two had any intimate relationship during that time, but don't provoke me, or I won't hesitate to make you regret it." Wesley's gaze was icy, and as Henry met his eyes, he felt a twinge of fear and swallowed his words.<br /> Taylor was also stunned. She knew exactly what Wesley had been like over the past five years. There were many surveillance cameras in the house, and she would often check them.<br /> Even when Taylor wasn't home, despite how her family treated Wesley, he always obeyed without complaint, especially towards her. He had never raised his voice, no matter how they treated him.<br /> Today, not only did Wesley dodge when her mother struck, but he also initiated the divorce and now even struck Henry. <br /> Taylor was at a loss for words, thinking, "How could this cowardly gent dare? On what grounds does he dare?"<br /> This change was difficult for Taylor to accept as if she didn't truly understand this guy. The gent who used to be obedient to her, completely submissive, now revealed this side of himself. She watched Wesley walk away in a daze, feeling a strange discomfort in her heart.<br /> "Isn't he leaving with nothing?" Alexis pointed at the wooden box Wesley was holding. "What is he taking with him?"<br /> Madison also realized. Over the past five years, Wesley had always treasured this wooden box, carrying it with him wherever he went. She thought there must be something valuable inside.<br /> Realizing this, Madison hurriedly followed. "Wesley, stop right there, leave the wooden box."<br /> Wesley paused, glanced at Madison, and said, "This is my personal belonging."<br /> "Nonsense, what personal belonging could you possibly have after marrying into the Reed family? Everything you've eaten, worn, and lived in over the years has been provided by the Reed family. Put it down."<br /> As she spoke, Madison reached out to grab the wooden box.<br /> "Ah..." A scream rang out as Madison quickly retracted her hand, a gash appearing on her palm, a crimson liquid dripping.<br /> The wooden box was now stained with the same crimson liquid, trembling lightly in Wesley's hand.<br /> "It's not the right time yet, the day you thirst for this crimson liquid will come," Wesley murmured softly, patting the box before turning to continue his stride towards the exit.<br /> "Monster! A monster!" Madison screamed, causing Taylor and the others to rush out. Seeing the wound in Madison's hand, Taylor was filled with rage.<br /> "Wesley, aren't you going to say something?" Wesley halted once more, contemplating before meeting Taylor's gaze.<br /> "Just stay out of my way from now on. Consider this a warning to you."<br /> "Taylor, that wooden box of his has a mechanism. It must hold something valuable! We can't let him take it with him," Madison, enduring the pain, reminded them.<br /> "Mom, your injury is important. We'll deal with him later. Let me take you to the hospital first." Taylor comforted Madison before calling out to the retreating Wesley.<br /> "Our marriage is over! Yet, you dared to hurt my mother! This won't be the end of it! I will make you regret it!" Ignoring her, Wesley continued walking out.<br /> "Rest assured, I promise he won't see the light of day tomorrow." Henry stepped forward to console. "Let's focus on getting your wound treated first."<br /> "I want him to regret ever existing in this world, to apologize to me in repentance," Madison roared.<br /> "Mom, trust me, I will make him do just that." Taylor looked at Madison with a mix of pity and determination. "Let's go to the hospital first."<br /> In the villa area, Wesley halted, his voice cold. "Get out."<br /> An elderly gent leaped down from a tree, appearing to be in his seventies, yet landing silently from a height of around ten feet.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, your father wants you to come home and take charge."<br /> "He stopped being my father five years ago. He's my enemy."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you misunderstood your father. He had his reasons back then. I swear in my life, once you know the truth, you will forgive him."<br /> "Huh!" Wesley smirked coldly, saying, "I nearly passed away back then. Is that also a misunderstanding?"<br /> The old gent pleaded, "Mr. Harrington, this situation is truly not as you perceive it."<br /> Wesley didn't engage further with the old guy. The events of that year were etched in his memory forever. He was the one who had been abandoned. If not for that incident, why would he have stayed with the Reed family for five years?<br /> Watching Wesley walk away, the old gent had tears silently streaming down his face. "Mr. Harrington, I truly... I truly can't bring myself to speak the truth, but you have misunderstood your father. He also bears burdens and endures pains beyond what an ordinary person can handle."<br /> As Wesley's figure disappeared, the old gent stood up, hesitated for a moment, then dialed a number on his phone.<br /> "Mr. Harrington is now divorced. I've given you the news firsthand. If your daughter is truly together with Mr. Harrington, you must fulfill the promise and let her persuade Mr. Harrington to come home."<br /> After hanging up, a middle-aged gent in a luxurious estate jumped up excitedly. Calming himself, he immediately made another call. "My dear, you're at Yeadeo, right?<br /> "Go find Wesley now. Don't mention the engagement for now. Use every means to get close to him, make him fall in love with you."<br /> "Dad, I don't have time."<br /> "No matter what you are busy with, you must go find Wesley now. No matter what reason you approach him, you must leave a good impression the first time."<br /> "Dad, I'm in trouble right now. If I don't handle it well, I might be good as gone. I have to deal with it immediately. I'm hanging up."<br /> Chapter 3 <br /> The middle-aged gent's voice lowered significantly. "Is there a big incident happening? You didn't tell me? What happened?"<br /> "Quinn Kingsley from Yeadeo, Mr. Kingsley, used our product and now has one foot on the grave. If something really happens to him..."<br /> "You mean Quinn, the uncontested leader of Yeadeo?"<br /> "Yes."<br /> "In that case, you should go find Wesley. Trust me, in this world, there is no problem that Wesley can't solve. As long as he's willing to help, you'll be fine. Listen to me, go find Wesley immediately."<br /> The lady fell silent for a moment before saying, "Okay."<br /> At Yeadeo Harbor, a gent with a large flaxen chain and a watch, sporting a crew cut, hurriedly disembarked, accompanied by a dozen gentlemen.<br /> "Mr. Reed, wherever that trash is, we will find him and tear him apart."<br /> "Yes, that guy dared to harm your mother. We'll make sure he pays for it."<br /> Frank Reed's face turned cold. "Wesley, you coward, thinking you can overturn the world? How dare you touch my mom? Just wait until I find you, you're finished."<br /> "We've found him. Wesley got into a taxi, and our boys followed him."<br /> "Let's go!" Frank waved his hand, leading dozens of men who boarded the car with harpoons, steel pipes, and other weapons.<br /> Inside the taxi, Wesley gazed at the scenery outside, feeling a strange sense of tranquility.<br /> He thought to himself, "I never imagined that while I was secretly paving the way for the Reed family, Taylor, after progressing so rapidly, would start looking down on me more and more."<br /> "Those ladies who know my true identity, which one of them isn't trying to throw themselves at me? Ladies like that don't interest me."<br /> "Being an ordinary gent is truly difficult," Wesley murmured, smiling faintly and deciding not to dwell on these matters anymore. He had important things to attend to and no time to waste on personal affairs.<br /> "Young lad, are you going to Feidgeuo Manor for a job interview?" The driver, curious about Wesley's destination, inquired.<br /> Feidgeuo Manor was Yeadeo's most mysterious private area. Originally a villa area, it was bought at a huge cost five years ago and completely renovated. It was said to have cost a trillion dollars. The former villa area was now Feidgeuo Manor.<br /> "That's my home," Wesley replied nonchalantly.<br /> The driver was taken aback by this revelation, silently cursing Wesley for bragging. After a couple of minutes, the driver regained his composure. "It seems like you and I both prefer to keep a low profile. My car usually gathers dust at home, so I occasionally drive a taxi to experience life."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "My car has been driven by my assistant for the past few years, so it's not gathering dust."<br /> "Haha..." The driver laughed. "We should get together sometime and see whose car is more impressive."<br /> "Sure, whenever we have the time."<br /> As they chatted, the vehicle soon arrived near Feidgeuo Manor, where the massive head of the Feidgeuo Peak protruded, creating a unique landscape in Yeadeo.<br /> The driver asked with a smile, "Since you're the owner here, it's fine if I drive in, right?"<br /> "Of course," Wesley replied.<br /> As soon as Wesley spoke, several cars caught up from behind.<br /> The cars surrounded the one Wesley was in, with the front vehicles braking to force the car to a stop.<br /> When numerous people descended from cars wielding harpoons and steel pipes, the driver's face paled.<br /> Frank and his group got out of the cars, instantly closing in, and without hesitation, started attacking, the steel pipes and harpoons thudding against the car.<br /> Frank's henchman yanked open the door of Wesley's car, poised to stab Wesley with a harpoon, but Wesley swiftly exited the vehicle.<br /> With a firm step on the ground, he launched a swift hit.<br /> A muffled sound echoed as the henchman was hit away.<br /> "What are you looking at?" Frank noticed his henchmen were all staring at him. "All of you, attack together and take him down!"<br /> As he commanded, the henchmen Frank brought with him surged forward.<br /> The taxi driver, trembling, took out his phone to call the police, but Frank glared at him. "I am Frank Reed from Yeadeo Harbor. If you dare, go ahead and make that call."<br /> Frank, leveraging his sister Taylor's status, had been causing trouble in Yeadeo Harbor, and no one dared to provoke him.<br /> Upon hearing Frank's name, the driver hastily put away his phone. "Mr. Reed, I'll just check the time, you guys continue."<br /> "Huh!" Frank snorted coldly, casting his gaze towards the surrounded Wesley.<br /> The sounds of thuds continued to ring out incessantly. Because Wesley was completely surrounded, Frank was unable to see the situation inside clearly, but he could imagine it. After all, in Frank's mind, the henchmen under his command were not to be trifled with.<br /> "Hit him hard for me!"<br /> Another muffled sound and a figure flew out. At that moment, Frank finally saw the situation clearly, and his face turned pale.<br /> Frank knew that Wesley liked to practice martial arts, but he had never expected Wesley to be this skilled. It wasn't Wesley who had been beaten, but his own men by Wesley alone.<br /> Frantically, Frank turned and ran to retrieve a crossbow from the car.<br /> "Clear the way." Frank bellowed, aiming the crossbow at Wesley.<br /> "You scumbag, you think you can fight? Move one more time, and I'll end your life! Surrender!"<br /> Wesley, holding a wooden box, stared at Frank. Ignoring the crossbow in his hand, Wesley said, "Tell your henchmen to back off, or you'll all see the light from above!"<br /> "You're really good at pretending to be tough." Frank took two steps forward. "See the light? Move a muscle and see if I can end your life or not! If you don't have the guts, apologize now!"<br /> Wesley turned his head and looked at the approaching cars, with two expensive ones in the lead, two more in the rear, and another one in the middle.<br /> "Keep acting tough, and I'll put a hole in your head." Frank spoke while glancing at the five cars. "What, looking for help?"<br /> "Let me tell you, those who ride in these cars are not the kind of weaklings like you who rely on connections. With me here, in Yeadeo's social hierarchy, even those who ride in such cars wouldn't dare meddle in this matter. And let me make it clear, without my sister, you're nothing."<br /> <br /> Chapter 4<br /> As Frank's words faded, the five cars came to a halt.<br /> A bodyguard opened the door of the one in the middle, revealing a dazzling pair of shining shoes catching everyone's eye.<br /> The shining shoe encased a beautiful foot. Above, the skirt's hem was adorned with lace.<br /> Then, like a fairy stepping out of a painting, she appeared before everyone's eyes.<br /> The lady was beautiful!<br /> Frank was mesmerized. Ever since the Reed family rose to prominence, he had been surrounded by ladies, but compared to the elegant lady before him, they were worlds apart.<br /> It wasn't just a difference in appearance but an incomparable gap in demeanor.<br /> The lady descending from the Maybach seemed like a celestial being untouched by mortal affairs.<br /> The embodiment of a fairy in the mundane world.<br /> She simply stood there after getting out of the car, perfectly embodying what it meant to be graceful and elegant.<br /> The lady glanced at Wesley, then at Frank.<br /> Frank grinned, saying, "May I have the honor of knowing the name of this esteemed lady? I am Frank..."<br /> The lady spoke calmly. "Disrespect Mr. Harrington, and you're done for."<br /> Her bodyguards, unfazed by Frank's crossbow, swiftly overwhelmed him, sending him crashing to the ground.<br /> The henchmen who had come with Frank, previously defeated by Wesley, now scrambled to their feet and fled in all directions.<br /> Who would dare provoke someone who could afford such a car?<br /> "My sister is Taylor Reed, the chairperson of Reed Group," Frank shouted, clutching his head.<br /> Ignoring him, one of the bodyguards dragged him to the roadside grass while another used a belt to tighten around Frank's neck, exerting pressure.<br /> "Enough, a lesson is all that's needed." Wesley spoke calmly, and only when the lady gestured did the bodyguards release Frank.<br /> Frank lay there, already unconscious.<br /> Wesley turned to the lady. "Who are you?"<br /> "I am Mia Roberts, the general manager of Vinver Business Alliance's Yeadeo branch." She looked at Wesley and continued, "Mr. Harrington, my father mentioned that you have miraculous healing skills and earnestly requested your assistance. A generous reward awaits."<br /> Wesley furrowed his brow slightly, thinking, "There are indeed people who recognize my abilities and status, yet I've rarely intervened in the past five years. Today, shortly after I divorced Taylor, she is here. Whose arrangement is this?"<br /> "Mr. Harrington, my father also mentioned that you are benevolent and has raised the banner of compassion among healers, serving as a role model and benchmark for all in the medical field."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "You have a way with words. Tell me the specifics."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, please get in the car first. I will explain in detail on the way."<br /> The phrase "compassionate healer" held significant weight for Wesley, who had saved countless lives from the brink of death.<br /> Without further ado, he got into the car.<br /> Inside, after Mia brewed coffee for Wesley, she began. "Vinver Business Alliance has a wide range of business operations, and I mainly oversee the health supplement sector, which has seen some success in recent years.<br /> "Recently, Quinn Kingsley started using our medicines, and now there's an accident."<br /> As she spoke, Mia kept her gaze fixed on Wesley.<br /> Quinn, the undisputed leader of Yeadeo, was a figure of immense influence.<br /> Upon hearing this name, Wesley showed no particular reaction. "If the city's leader faces issues with your products, it is indeed a concern. Let's go and see."<br /> With just a sentence, Wesley leaned back in his seat, closing his eyes to rest.<br /> Mia was secretly alarmed, thinking, "He knows who Quinn is, yet he seems indifferent. Who is this Wesley, really? No wonder Dad has instructed me to find a way to win his favor." Mia's inner resistance toward Wesley quietly shifted.<br /> Wesley had piqued her curiosity.<br /> As the vehicle was moving, Wesley's phone rang.<br /> Wesley opened his eyes and took out his phone to see Taylor calling.<br /> Pressing the answer button, he asked, "What's the matter?"<br /> On the other end of the line, Taylor, driving towards Feidgeuo Manor, had a grim expression.<br /> She thought, "Has Wesley ever spoken to me in such a cold tone before? Is he really this heartless right after our divorce?"<br /> Already furious, she snapped. "Wesley, do you even consider yourself a human being?<br /> "Today, not only did you lay hands on my mother, but you also had someone attack my brother. Do you not remember our past at all?"<br /> Wesley calmly replied, "Do we have a past to remember?"<br /> "You truly are a heartless scumbag, just as my mother said. You are an ungrateful and vicious person I raised for five years. Even a pet would wag its tail at me!"<br /> Taylor wanted to continue her tirade, but the phone line had already turned busy.<br /> This only fueled her anger further.<br /> Just now, she had received a call from Frank's underlings, informing her that Wesley had sent people to attack Frank and even intended to end him.<br /> Taylor wanted to demand answers, but...<br /> As Taylor was clutching her fists, her gaze turned icy.<br /> After a moment, she picked up her phone again. "Wesley, you are so narrow-minded. You have no ambition. Any lady would steer clear of you."<br /> "Just because I dumped you, you are doing this on purpose to make me feel sick. Pretending to be aloof and seeking revenge? Do you even deserve it?"<br /> "In Yeadeo, squashing you would be as easy as squashing an ant. You're asking for it! If anything happens to my brother, I will make you wish you were ending!"<br /> Her furious voice message echoed in the car.<br /> Wesley chuckled and put away his phone.<br /> Beside him, Mia seemed contemplative. Before coming, she had already ordered a swift investigation into Wesley.<br /> She was curious, thinking, "How could someone valued by my father could be the one 'marrying into' the Reed family."<br /> Being tactful, Mia chose not to ask and pretended not to have heard.<br /> After about forty minutes, they arrived at the Kingsley Manor.<br /> The Kingsley family members, upon seeing Mia alight from the car, all wore grim expressions.<br /> Mia greeted them with a smile, "Everyone, this is Wesley Harrington, Mr. Harrington, the miraculous healer I specially invited to treat Mr. Kingsley."<br /> "Him? The gent who married into the Reed family?"<br /> "A miraculous healer? Is he even worthy? Are healers so worthless now?"<br /> "A useless gent who mooches off of the Reed family? How dare he call himself a miraculous healer? Truly a joke among all jokes."<br /> Chapter 5<br /> <br /> Amanda Kingsley, Quinn's granddaughter, stared coldly at Wesley and Mia.<br /> This lady, dressed in a smart suit, also held significant fame in Yeadeo, overseeing the region's business activities, including investment attraction and various local business negotiations.<br /> Amanda had a favorable view of Taylor, who had risen swiftly in recent times, and they had interacted frequently.<br /> She was aware of Wesley's existence and had advised Taylor to part ways with him early on.<br /> But Amanda never imagined that Mia would bring someone like Wesley, a complete waste, and claim he was a miraculous healer.<br /> Glaring at Mia, she said, "Mia, once my grandfather is well, it's best for your Roberts family to leave Yeadeo."<br /> "As for you..." She glanced at Wesley. "I will advise Taylor to divorce you. You have deceived Taylor's feelings and now shamelessly made your way into my family. You are a despicable creature."<br /> After reprimanding Mia and Wesley, she turned to an elderly gent beside her, and her tone and attitude completely changed. "Mr. Phillips, sorry to trouble you. My grandfather is inside, please."<br /> Mia looked at the elderly gent, who was already in his twilight years, feeling deeply shocked.<br /> Scott Phillips, the 38th generation heir of the Healing Clinic, was now ninety-two years old.<br /> Renowned as a miraculous healer, he was a respected figure in the medical community of Yeadeo and even nationally.<br /> He no longer conducted consultations personally due to his old age. Mia had visited him specifically to pay her respects once she had arrived in Yeadeo but had not met Scott.<br /> She never expected Scott to appear in person. It was understandable, as Quinn held a prominent position in the city. Despite the profound influence of the Phillips family, they still had to show respect to Quinn.<br /> Mia looked at Wesley, feeling conflicted and thinking, "Dad has confidently claimed that Wesley has extraordinary abilities, but does he really?"<br /> She harbored doubts, but out of propriety, Mia spoke. "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the trouble."<br /> Wesley smiled, "It's fine. As long as the person can be healed."<br /> His open-mindedness impressed Mia.<br /> After about half an hour, Amanda emerged from the room. All eyes instantly turned towards her.<br /> It was evident that Amanda had wailed out, with traces of tears still visible.<br /> "Amanda, how is it?" A middle-aged gent anxiously asked her.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family who had rushed back also focused their attention on her.<br /> "Mr. Phillips said that there's little hope of recovery. He could only use acupuncture to wake grandfather for half an hour. When grandfather wakes up, let's all go in and see if he has any final instructions."<br /> Everyone was shocked.<br /> "How could this be?"<br /> "Is Mr. Phillips also helpless?"<br /> The members of the Kingsley family found it hard to accept this reality, especially since Quinn had always treated his juniors well.<br /> The thought of Quinn departing saddened some, and tears silently fell.<br /> Publicly, Quinn's status was the foundation of the Kingsley family's prominence in Yeadeo.<br /> If Quinn were to pass away, the Kingsley family would undoubtedly decline.<br /> The atmosphere within the Kingsley family was somber.<br /> Amanda looked at her family members, opened her mouth, but said nothing, silently turning back into the room.<br /> "Stop crying," A middle-aged gent said sternly, "Dad wouldn't want to see you all in tears. If he's really leaving, we mustn't let him worry about us. Pull yourselves together."<br /> After these words, the middle-aged gent also entered the room.<br /> The younger members of the Kingsley family wiped their tears vigorously, trying to force smiles, but in truth, they looked better at crying than pretending to be happy.<br /> Mia's spirit plummeted as she realized the gravity of the situation. Even if an ordinary person passed away from consuming health supplements, it spelled big trouble for those who sold them. And when the deceased happened to be Quinn, the stakes were even higher.<br /> She understood that it would be difficult for this branch to stay in Yeadeo, and even the headquarters might face repercussions.<br /> "Let's go in and have a look." Wesley glanced at Mia. "There might still be a chance."<br /> "Ah..." Mia stared at Wesley in surprise. Seeing him already heading towards the room, she quickly followed suit.<br /> Inside the room, the members of the Kingsley family stood around the mattress, maintaining a certain distance.<br /> Scott lit the alcohol lamp and took out the needles, his expression solemn.<br /> He looked at the members of the Kingsley family. "Think about what you want to say to Mr. Kingsley later. Once you're ready, let me know, and then I'll proceed with the acupuncture."<br /> As he said this, tears welled up in many eyes.<br /> "If you don't mind, let me take a look. I have a way." Wesley spoke up, drawing everyone's attention.<br /> Amanda's face darkened. "Who let you in? Get out!"<br /> "Mia, have you lost your mind? Tricked by this trash and actually brought him here as a miracle healer. Get out with him! I'll settle the score with you in a couple of days."<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, at a loss for words.<br /> "Even Mr. Phillips is unable to reverse the situation. What use are you? Get out." Another younger member of the Kingsley family angrily rebuked.<br /> The middle-aged gent added, "We're in no mood right now. You better leave immediately."<br /> "I understand your narrow-mindedness," Wesley continued, "But as a healer, once I see a patient, I cannot stand by and watch him draw his last breath."<br /> "Wesley, you're quite the charlatan. Do you really want to be gone right now?" Amanda's voice was filled with anger.<br /> "Amanda, let me say a few words," Scott interjected, and Amanda fell silent.<br /> Looking at Wesley, Scott began. "Young lad, at my age, I've seen a lot and have a broad perspective. Today, however, I find it hard to remain indifferent. I practiced medicine from the age of sixteen until I stopped seeing patients for a total of seventy years."<br /> "I've saved countless patients from various illnesses. I never easily declare a patient's fate, nor do I believe I have the right to do so."<br /> "But from your recent remarks, it seems like you're accusing me of such actions. Young people wanting to make a name for themselves by stepping on the shoulders of their predecessors, I can understand."<br /> "But this kind of behavior displeases me."<br /> "My displeasure, what does it mean to you? Do you understand?"<br /> "Even if you are a healer, your career will be ruined because of this."<br /> Chapter 6 <br /> In the face of Scott's veiled threats, Wesley simply smiled and brushed them off.<br /> Looking at Scott, he asked, "I've always focused on the issue at hand rather than attacking individuals. I have a few questions for you. If you can't administer the needles, how long do you think Quinn can hold on?"<br /> "Seven days, but he will remain unconscious," Scott replied bluntly.<br /> "Then let me ask you this, is there anyone in the world with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "Outrageous," Amanda coldly interjected, "Mr. Phillips is unparalleled in his medical expertise."<br /> Scott glanced at Amanda. "Amanda, let me handle this question."<br /> Continuing to address Wesley, he said, "I don't underestimate myself, nor do I overestimate. There are countless talented individuals in the world, like stars in the sky. I may not dare claim to be the best in medical skills, but those who surpass me are few."<br /> "That means there are some," Wesley calmly remarked, causing Scott's expression to shift slightly, "Indeed, there are."<br /> "Then let me ask you this. Do you think within seven days, the Kingsley family won't find someone with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "If they do find someone, do you believe there is an illness that you cannot cure, but this person can?"<br /> Wesley's questions were sharp and resounding.<br /> Scott's face changed once more as he was rendered speechless.<br /> "Even if there is, that person will never be you." Amanda's face turned icy. "Now get out. Don't spout your eloquence here. Your deceitful behavior is repulsive."<br /> "Your understanding of me is merely hearsay, isn't it?" Wesley retorted, his gaze mocking Amanda, "Has your background and education taught you such arrogance and prejudice?"<br /> "Arrogance?" Amanda's face grew colder as she disdainfully looked at Wesley. "Prejudice?<br /> "Did I say something wrong just now? You are nothing but stagnant waste, a parasite living off others. If it weren't for Taylor, you would have starved on the streets long ago."<br /> "Relying on sweet words, deceiving Taylor. She, with her kind heart, can't bear to divorce you, but don't push your luck. If it weren't for Taylor's sake, you would have been sent out long ago."<br /> Scott interrupted Amanda, "Amanda, although I find this lad a bit annoying, what he said does hold some truth. There are indeed individuals with better medical skills than me. Your grandfather can hold on for seven days. Try reaching out to see if someone can come over. I'll help you make connections."<br /> "If it really doesn't work out after seven days, I'll administer the needles to your grandfather. However, at that point, I can only buy you three minutes."<br /> As soon as Scott spoke, the faces of the Kingsley family members grew even more solemn. True healers were rare and not easily summoned.<br /> While the Kingsley family had connections in Yeadeo, their influence waned outside of it.<br /> "Mr. Phillips, please administer the needles. Life has its ups and downs, and we understand that. Just buy my father a bit more time." The middle-aged gent spoke up.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family nodded in agreement.<br /> Amanda looked at Scott. "Mr. Phillips, please."<br /> "In that case, please have everyone unrelated leave. I need silence," Scott calmly stated.<br /> Amanda glared at Wesley, her eyes speaking volumes without a word.<br /> The unrelated individuals were, naturally, Wesley and Mia.<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, intending to leave, but she suddenly hesitated.<br /> Instead of leaving, Wesley moved forward.<br /> "What are you doing?" A young member of the Kingsley family stepped forward with a stern expression, pushing Wesley.<br /> In one swift motion, Wesley executed a clean shoulder throw, toppling the young gent to the ground, his own expression turning cold.<br /> "A bunch of fools! If it weren't for my teacher's teachings about not turning a blind eye to those in need, I wouldn't bother with you ignorant lot," Wesley remarked with disdain.<br /> As Wesley effortlessly took down one individual from the Kingsley family, the others seemed slow to react.<br /> By the time they realized what was happening, Wesley had already picked up the needle next to Scott and casually flicked his wrist.<br /> The needle flew out of his hand, piercing Quinn's temple, followed by a second needle, a third needle, and so on.<br /> "What are you doing? Stop!" Amanda's voice rose in urgency, echoed by the rest of the Kingsley family members who rushed forward to restrain Wesley.<br /> "Stay back, everyone. Wait." Scott suddenly stood up, blocking the others. "Let him try."<br /> Amanda and the others were left dumbfounded, thinking, "What does this mean?"<br /> Despite their confusion, they heeded Scott's words.<br /> After Scott stopped the members of the Kingsley family, he fixed his gaze on Wesley.<br /> Wesley proceeded to use eighteen needles in succession, symbolizing the levels of pain.<br /> Even if someone had descended into the depths of hell, they must be brought back.<br /> The final needle, also piercing a vital point, caused Quinn's body to tremble suddenly, resonating with the previous eighteen needles.<br /> Scott's eyes widened, his body trembling slightly. His reaction left Amanda and the others even more puzzled, but none dared to interrupt.<br /> Moments later, Wesley placed a palm on Quinn's chest, causing all eighteen needles to be shaken off. When all the needles landed on the ground, the part of the skin where the needles had pierced turned dark.<br /> Wesley then dragged Quinn to the edge of the mattress, flipped him over with his head facing downwards, and gave him a firm pat on the back.<br /> Quinn spat out a mouthful of black liquid. When Wesley flipped him back to lie flat, his complexion had regained some color.<br /> "The Hand of Darkness... It's the Hand of Darkness!" Scott exclaimed with excitement, his body quivering, "It's the Hand that descends into the dark world, snatching people from the hands of the Evil!"<br /> "You do have some knowledge, recognizing the Hand of Darkness." Wesley glanced at Scott.<br /> Scott's gaze towards Wesley had undergone a drastic change. He respectfully clasped his hands together.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thirty years ago, I had the honor of attending a teaching conference held by Mr. Vanderbilt. I saw the Hand of Darkness, but my limited aptitude only allowed me to grasp the basics."<br /> "I have been blind and ignorant. I apologize for my earlier offenses. Please forgive me, Mr. Harrington."<br /> The Mr. Vanderbilt Scott referred to was Wesley's teacher, Ulysses Vanderbilt. He generously imparted his skills to others, but the ability to learn depended on one's innate talent.<br /> In this world, few could learn Ulysses' skills.<br /> Scott had been fortunate to receive guidance from Ulysses, which had elevated his medical skills. However, the Hand of Darkness, a miraculous ability, was beyond his comprehension.<br /> Wesley smiled faintly, "Your actions earlier are understandable. I appreciate your words."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you must be an exceptional disciple of Mr. Vanderbilt, possessing unparalleled magnanimity. Impressive," Scott continued.<br /> "Enough with the flattery at your age."<br /> "You are mistaken, Mr. Harrington. Every word I speak is sincere."<br /> Mia, Amanda, and the others stood bewildered by the unfolding situation.<br /> "Mr. Phillips... he... he..." Amanda's words faltered.<br /> Scott turned to the members of the Kingsley family. "Meeting Mr. Harrington was Quinn's luck. His symptoms have been cured by Mr. Harrington. With a few days of rest, he will be fine."<br /> The waste Taylor had previously said was called Mr. Harrington by Scott!<br /> Recalling their previous attitudes, Amanda hurriedly apologized, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> The members of the Kingsley family all apologized in unison, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> Chapter 7 <br /> With a faint smile, Wesley remarked, "As family members of a patient, your actions earlier are understandable. There's no need for such formality."<br /> Amanda's perplexity deepened as she thought, "Where is the cowardly waste that Taylor described? This display of magnanimity and breadth is far from it."<br /> Mia, too, felt a shiver of realization, thinking, "No wonder Dad has insisted on my proximity to Wesley.<br /> This guy..."<br /> She gazed at Wesley, her curiosity piqued, a sense of exploration stirring within her.<br /> "Mia has brought you here, Mr. Harrington, to cure my grandfather. The Kingsley family will never forget this act. However, considering that my grandfather's ailment stemmed from the health supplements produced by the Vinver Business Alliance, we will be conducting an investigation into it."<br /> Amanda continued, looking at Wesley, "What do you think... of this approach?"<br /> It was Mia who had invited Wesley, so Amanda had grown wiser, refraining from asking for a direct punishment of the Vinver Business Alliance.<br /> As Mia heard Amanda's words, her heart skipped a beat, realizing trouble was brewing.<br /> "On the way here, Ms. Roberts briefed me on the situation. You conducted experiments on mice, correct?"<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes, the health supplements we received were exclusively provided by the Roberts family. There were no similar cases on the market, so we used mice for testing.<br /> "All the mice that ingested this supplement were gone."<br /> She looked at Mia and added, her voice turning colder, "Before the experiment, I specifically contacted Mia to inquire about the testing methods during the development phase, which involved mice.<br /> "There have been individuals eyeing my grandfather's position, some even wishing for his demise. I never imagined that the Vinver Business Alliance, which I attracted for investment, would become a weapon in someone else's hands."<br /> "Do you have any of the remaining medicine?" Wesley inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes."<br /> "Bring some over."<br /> Immediately, someone fetched the medicine. After it was brought to him, Wesley took out a supplement and swallowed it directly.<br /> This scene left Amanda and the others dumbfounded.<br /> Scott, too, was bewildered. "Mr. Harrington, what are you doing?"<br /> Wesley smiled, "Just proving that this medicine is not toxic."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thank you," Mia thanked sincerely, feeling like crying at that moment.<br /> Amanda, with a puzzled expression, looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, are you suggesting that my grandfather's condition wasn't caused by the Vinver Business Alliance's medicine? What about the mice?"<br /> The rest were equally puzzled.<br /> "Yes, but not entirely," Wesley said, leaving everyone even more bewildered.<br /> Mia's emotions were like a rollercoaster ride, from relief to immediate tension.<br /> "This medicine itself is not toxic, but when taken with another substance made from a certain plant, it results in Quinn's condition. The mice would die immediately, while humans could endure a few more days."<br /> Wesley continued to explain, "The plant used in this concoction is originally meant for crafting slow-acting toxins, not for human consumption."<br /> Looking at Amanda, Wesley said, "During this period, whoever had access to your grandfather and the mice will better understand why these events occurred."<br /> The gaze of members of the Kingsley family immediately focused on a lady.<br /> Amanda, somewhat incredulous, looked at her. "Can you offer an explanation?"<br /> The lady was the wife of Amanda's deceased brother. She found it hard to accept, as did the rest of the Kingsley family.<br /> This lady had been named the exemplary lady who served her family well this year, not due to her connection with the Kingsley family but because she genuinely deserved it.<br /> "What do you mean? Amanda, what explanation do you want from me?"<br /> The lady stared at Amanda. "Am I the only one who had access to Grandfather and the mice? You, and you... and you, who didn't have access?"<br /> "You all claim to treat me as family. Since I married into the Kingsley family, I have worked diligently, contributing my share even if not acknowledged."<br /> "Amanda, it has been over a year since your brother passed, and I never once considered remarrying. Now, just because of his words, you demand an explanation from me?"<br /> Pointing at Wesley, the lady questioned, "Just because he accuses me of poisoning, you suspect me? Tell me, did I poison him?" The lady glared at Wesley.<br /> "I am merely analyzing the facts. As for concluding this case, it's not within my purview," Wesley addressed the members of the Kingsley family, saying, "You should conduct a thorough investigation into this matter.<br /> "I will write a prescription. Have Quinn take it on time, and he will recover in seven days."<br /> Amanda hurried to fetch paper and pen while Wesley prepared the prescription. Once done, he was ready to leave.<br /> Amanda said hurriedly, "Mr. Harrington, I've already made arrangements for lunch."<br /> "No need," Wesley smiled.<br /> The Kingsley family sought to build closer ties with Wesley, given his extraordinary medical skills. Wesley was well aware of this.<br /> Looking at Amanda and the others, Wesley remarked, "In the future, if you encounter any difficult medical cases that others cannot solve, seek me out. Remember, cases others cannot solve."<br /> The gaze of the Kingsley family members toward Wesley changed once again. Many renowned healers had eccentric personalities and were difficult to engage.<br /> They hadn't expected Wesley to possess such remarkable medical skills without any airs.<br /> As Wesley prepared to depart, the members of the Kingsley family did not dare to insist on his stay, so they accompanied him outside.<br /> "Oh, how could we forget such an important matter? Amanda, what about the consultation fee?" The middle-aged gent inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the oversight. Please wait a moment." Amanda hurried back inside and soon returned with a bank card in hand.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, there's one million dollars in here."<br /> Without hesitation, Wesley accepted the bank card and boarded Mia's car.<br /> During the journey, Mia boldly looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, you've helped me immensely. Can I treat you to a meal? Don't decline in a hurry. It's not a fancy restaurant, but it will leave you wanting more. It's a small place on the street, with only eight plates of noodles served each day, each plate containing different ingredients.<br /> "I managed to secure a reservation. Are you interested?"<br /> Wesley thought, "Eight Plates of Noodles? Ah, Aaron's restaurant. It has been a while since I visited those old friends."<br /> Wesley nodded. "Let's go then."<br /> The restaurant, Eight Plates of Noodles, was located on Chanxold Street near the Yeadeo First Central Hospital.<br /> The establishment was small, serving only eight plates of noodles each day at a price of 10 thousand dollars each. Vernoic's television culinary program had specifically covered this incident.<br /> Reservations were a must to secure a plate.<br /> The restaurant's owner had a mysterious background. While the specifics were unknown, a high-ranking noble from the capital of Vernoic, Kingsland, had caused a scene there once.<br /> He had attempted to force his way in without a reservation. Although this incident hadn't been reported, rumors suggested that a garbage truck had to be called to dispose of the intruder's remains, as he was too shattered to be removed by conventional means.<br /> Since then, no one dared to cause trouble.<br /> On their way, Mia introduced Wesley to the background story.<br /> "Mr. Turner, two plates of noodles." Mia called out once they arrived.<br /> Aaron Turner didn't respond but visibly paused upon seeing Wesley beside Mia.<br /> A faint smile appeared on his usually stoic face. Though the flesh on the face seemed stiff, it was indeed a smile. "Coming right up."<br /> Mia glanced at Aaron with a hint of surprise, thinking, "When did he become so warm and enthusiastic? His tone seemed a bit agitated earlier, didn't it?"<br /> Soon enough, Aaron brought two plates of noodles to the table. One steaming hot and the other devoid of any warmth.<br /> As Mia observed Aaron placing the plate without steam in front of Wesley, her expression changed slightly.<br /> It was a plate of instant noodles having soaked in cold water, with the seasoning barely dissolved.<br /> She felt a sense of panic. Mia had wanted to leave a good impression on Wesley, which was why she had chosen this place.<br /> However, Aaron had served such a plate of noodles.<br /> She dared not question Aaron. The type of noodles served here was not determined by the guests but by Aaron's mood.<br /> "This girl named Mia is quite something, living up to her name, and quite kind-hearted," Aaron remarked, looking at Wesley.<br /> "Get lost," Wesley retorted, using his fork to pick up the noodles and devouring them.<br /> Mia's face turned pale instantly. Disrespecting Aaron was akin to risking Wesley's life.<br /> To her astonishment, Aaron chuckled, tears welling up in his eyes.<br /> He wiped them away. "Alright, I'll leave you to your meal."<br /> Before departing, he gave Mia a thumbs-up. "Seize the opportunity."<br /> The eight plates of noodles symbolized the eight comrades who had faced life and life-threatening situations together.<br /> Wesley ate voraciously. Initially, they had only one pack of instant noodles to share among the eight of them, forcing them to divide it.<br /> Despite the circumstances, they devoured the noodles joyfully.<br /> Aaron had promised that once they survived, each one would have the most delicious plate of noodles.<br /> However, five of the eight had perished.<br /> Wesley had come dangerously close to life-threatening situations, but managed to cling to life.<br /> For him, the plate of noodles was not food but the bond of friendship that had shielded him from harm.<br /> "Do you... know each other?" Mia couldn't help but ask, her voice low and curious.<br /> "Some things are better left unknown," Wesley replied.<br /> Mia nodded in understanding, falling silent as they continued eating noodles. She couldn't help stealing glances at Wesley throughout the meal.<br /> This gent had piqued her curiosity even more.<br /> "Wesley, I see. No wonder you agreed to the divorce so readily. You've already found someone else outside."<br /> A sharp voice interrupted their meal.<br /> Taylor approached with a cold expression, accompanied by Henry. | Adoread Romance story | 106 | https://facebook.com/61557113391558 | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1713250800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846724 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446608 | 1735168083 | 890 | 1088750682204498 | 1 | 7.8249379355099E+14 | 1713337200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 235254296344339 | 0 | Adoread Romance story | 120207848353550113 | play.google.com | Install now | NONE | video | HOT BOOK✨Tap the button to read more👉 | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.adoread.book | 1713261158 | 2.3525429634434E+14 | Adoread Romance story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437558368_443826584806864_9103482045185981500_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VLzYbuV5A20Q7kNvgEUZmS_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDEXz114coOioycapTdq6G8BFHoMVddh9DrzBzxbsNxYg&oe=6663FFF1 | person_profile | 0 | Adoread Romance story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437465164_7367847756632585_8177150249930328104_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HnKe5BW_6e8Q7kNvgGVzlDz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDPYjCQFCX4zRgEQ9DkIW6jdMc7N_YHpcNEhRufipNe2w&oe=6663E9C3 | 0 | 3 | Chapter 1 <br /> "Wesley, are you trying to harm me? You useless piece of trash, can't even make a decent cup of coffee, can you?"<br /> Madison Blair lifted her coffee cup and splashed it directly onto Wesley Harrington's face.<br /> "What are you looking at, you spineless waste? Your name sounds so lofty? I might as well call you a waste."<br /> Glancing at the grotesque expression of his wife's mother, Wesley pulled out his phone to check the time.<br /> Exactly twelve o'clock. It had been five full years since he married Taylor Reed.<br /> The appointed time had come.<br /> He had fulfilled his promise, safeguarding the Reed family for five years, transforming them from a family living off fishing to one perceived as affluent by the common folk.<br /> Wiping the coffee off his face, he turned and walked away.<br /> "Where do you think you're going? Go fetch some more coffee," Madison shouted.<br /> "Madison, didn't you say this waste is obedient at home, doing whatever he's told? I don't think he's taking it lying down."<br /> Madison grew angrier. "Wesley, you stop right there. My family has fed and housed you. If you dare disobey, I'll have you thrown out!"<br /> Ignoring her, Wesley continued downstairs.<br /> "When Taylor comes back, I'll immediately have you two divorced. Do you hear me? Stay right there," Madison threatened, "I'll let you know your place today."<br /> Grabbing a golf club, Madison swiftly charged towards Wesley.<br /> Seeing Wesley heading downstairs, she swung the club viciously at his back.<br /> Without turning back, Wesley gently sidestepped.<br /> Losing her balance, Madison tumbled forward, rolling down the stairs with a series of thumps.<br /> "Ouch... it hurts, it hurts so much!"<br /> As Madison reached the ground floor, she wailed in pain and her sister immediately rushed to her.<br /> "Wesley, what have you done? How dare you hit my sister!" Madison's sister hurried down, checking on Madison's condition.<br /> Wesley remained silent, observing the scene.<br /> "Quick, call Taylor. Tell her to come back. Today, she must divorce this waste." Madison glared at Wesley. "How dare you hit me? Not only will I let Taylor divorce you, but I'll make sure you leave in disgrace."<br /> "Mum, what's wrong?" At that moment, a gent and a lady walked in.<br /> The lady was Taylor, Madison's daughter.<br /> She ran towards Madison.<br /> As Madison pointed at Wesley, tears streamed down her face. "Taylor, he hit me, he hit me! When you're not home, he changes his attitude, scolding and hitting me in the slightest displeasure. He even pushed me down the stairs just now. Alexis can testify."<br /> Madison's sister, Alexis Blair, chimed in. "Yes, Wesley, this trash not only hit your mother but also threatened to hit me too. We cannot tolerate such trash."<br /> "Taylor, I have been telling you to divorce him for years. You've been supporting him, treating him like a Lord at home, but he's an ungrateful wolf in sheep's clothing."<br /> Helping Madison up, Taylor noticed the scrapes on Madison's arms and legs, her expression turning cold.<br /> "Wesley, why did you hit my mother? You better give me an explanation."<br /> Wesley looked at Taylor, his wife.<br /> Five years had passed, and she had never shown him kindness.<br /> Taylor dressed impeccably, a paragon of a successful lady, with a face that could be deemed angelic, yet whether her heart was as angelic remained a mystery.<br /> Her figure, too, left countless men yearning.<br /> For five years, Wesley had thought he might develop feelings for this lady, but in reality, it never happened.<br /> "There are surveillance cameras in the house," Wesley stated calmly before descending the stairs into the hallway.<br /> Despite residing in a three-story villa, Wesley's living quarters were confined to the stairwell.<br /> He harbored no resentment towards this arrangement. It was merely a promise. It was just that Taylor failed to appreciate him.<br /> This home held little value that he wished to cling onto.<br /> Retrieving a wooden box from beneath his pillow, Wesley extracted two documents. Casting a fleeting glance at the modest abode he had called home for five years, Wesley smiled faintly.<br /> He thought, "Finally... I'm free."<br /> Pushing the door ajar, Wesley was met by Taylor's piercing gaze. "I've reviewed the surveillance footage. Yes, my mother intended to strike you, but even if she did, what difference would it make?"<br /> "She's a lady. How much could her blows hurt you? Why did you dodge?"<br /> "If you hadn't dodged, my mother wouldn't have tumbled down." Wesley stared at Taylor, unable to comprehend her thought process.<br /> He had no interest in engaging in these arguments. Handing over the two documents to Taylor, he remarked, "The divorce agreement. I've already signed it. Take a look. I'm leaving with nothing."<br /> "With your current influence, there's no need for you to visit the city hall. Someone will handle it for you, right?"<br /> Madison was taken aback. She swiftly snatched the divorce agreement, flipping through it hastily.<br /> The contents were indeed straightforward. Both parties willingly divorced, with Wesley relinquishing all claims and having already signed.<br /> In an instant, Madison's pain seemed to dissipate. "Taylor, sign it quickly. Sign it."<br /> Taylor was still in a daze.<br /> She pondered.<br /> "A divorce agreement? Wesley has already prepared a divorce agreement. On what grounds?"<br /> "What gives him the right to initiate a divorce? All these years, he's done nothing at home, lacking any ambition. Always practicing martial arts, what right does he have to seek a divorce?"<br /> "If anyone should initiate it, it should be me. Moreover, now that I'm back to discussing this matter with him. Could it be that word got out, and Wesley, for the sake of his pride, rushed to prepare a divorce agreement first?"<br /> "It must be so, but... No!"<br /> "Wanting to leave with nothing, is he retreating to advance? As the chairman of the Reed Group, how could I be served with a divorce?"<br /> "Hey Wesley, I never expected this from you. Have I not treated you well enough? You seek a divorce, attempting to turn your retreat into advance, aiming to embarrass me?"<br /> Taylor glared at Wesley. "I'm telling you, it's impossible."<br /> Snatching the divorce agreement, she tore it to shreds.<br /> "Taylor, what are you doing? Such a great opportunity. Why not just sign it and let him leave?" Madison grew anxious.<br /> "Mom, I do intend to divorce this trash, but the decision must come from me. I returned specifically to address this matter."<br /> With that, Taylor produced two documents. "Wesley, remember that it's me who's divorcing you. It's me who no longer wants you. Initially, out of marital obligation, I had considered offering you some compensation. Now, you don't even need to think about it. Sign the divorce agreement and leave my home."<br /> Wesley offered a faint smile as he accepted the divorce agreement.<br /> "What are you laughing at?" Taylor demanded angrily.<br /> Wesley's smile seemed to mock her, fueling her rage.<br /> Ignoring her entirely, Wesley signed the document and handed it over.<br /> "What are you laughing at? Answer me! Who do you think you are?" Taylor roared once more.<br /> Wesley glanced at her before striding towards the exit.<br /> "Stop!" The gent who had accompanied Taylor stepped forward, blocking Wesley's path. "Taylor asked you a question, and... Your previous attitude displeased me. Apologize to Taylor, or I'll have you leave in disgrace!"<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 <br /> "Yes, let him leave in disgrace. He thought he could just hit me and walk away so easily," Madison joined in the commotion, also noticing the gent blocking Wesley's path.<br /> Madison had a keen interest in luxury goods, having frequented various high-end establishments over the years as the Reed family's living conditions improved. The gent was wearing an expensive watch and dressed head to toe in high-end luxury brands.<br /> Seeing Madison's gaze, the gent spoke. "Rest assured, today Wesley must pay the price."<br /> The gent introduced himself, looking at Wesley, "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Henry Clark, the eldest son of the Clark family and the general manager of the Clark Group in the North District."<br /> "From now on, I will accompany Taylor on her journey of life, and I will not allow anyone to bully her."<br /> "My identity carries weight. You should understand that. Now, apologize to Taylor. Apologize! Did you hear me? Apologize!"<br /> Madison's eyes lit up. She hadn't expected the gent before her to hold such a high status. She continued to shout, "Did you hear that? Taylor will be with Mr. Clark from now on. Apologize now."<br /> Wesley glanced at Henry, then at Taylor. He thought, "Have they been together all along?" Wesley had wanted to ask but decided against it because there was no need. He simply gave them a glance and continued walking towards the exit.<br /> "Are you ignoring me?" Henry's face turned cold as he reached out to grab Wesley. Henry's hand froze mid-air as he received a solid hit.<br /> "Until I sign the divorce papers, Taylor and I are still wife and husband. I don't care to investigate whether you two had any intimate relationship during that time, but don't provoke me, or I won't hesitate to make you regret it." Wesley's gaze was icy, and as Henry met his eyes, he felt a twinge of fear and swallowed his words.<br /> Taylor was also stunned. She knew exactly what Wesley had been like over the past five years. There were many surveillance cameras in the house, and she would often check them.<br /> Even when Taylor wasn't home, despite how her family treated Wesley, he always obeyed without complaint, especially towards her. He had never raised his voice, no matter how they treated him.<br /> Today, not only did Wesley dodge when her mother struck, but he also initiated the divorce and now even struck Henry. <br /> Taylor was at a loss for words, thinking, "How could this cowardly gent dare? On what grounds does he dare?"<br /> This change was difficult for Taylor to accept as if she didn't truly understand this guy. The gent who used to be obedient to her, completely submissive, now revealed this side of himself. She watched Wesley walk away in a daze, feeling a strange discomfort in her heart.<br /> "Isn't he leaving with nothing?" Alexis pointed at the wooden box Wesley was holding. "What is he taking with him?"<br /> Madison also realized. Over the past five years, Wesley had always treasured this wooden box, carrying it with him wherever he went. She thought there must be something valuable inside.<br /> Realizing this, Madison hurriedly followed. "Wesley, stop right there, leave the wooden box."<br /> Wesley paused, glanced at Madison, and said, "This is my personal belonging."<br /> "Nonsense, what personal belonging could you possibly have after marrying into the Reed family? Everything you've eaten, worn, and lived in over the years has been provided by the Reed family. Put it down."<br /> As she spoke, Madison reached out to grab the wooden box.<br /> "Ah..." A scream rang out as Madison quickly retracted her hand, a gash appearing on her palm, a crimson liquid dripping.<br /> The wooden box was now stained with the same crimson liquid, trembling lightly in Wesley's hand.<br /> "It's not the right time yet, the day you thirst for this crimson liquid will come," Wesley murmured softly, patting the box before turning to continue his stride towards the exit.<br /> "Monster! A monster!" Madison screamed, causing Taylor and the others to rush out. Seeing the wound in Madison's hand, Taylor was filled with rage.<br /> "Wesley, aren't you going to say something?" Wesley halted once more, contemplating before meeting Taylor's gaze.<br /> "Just stay out of my way from now on. Consider this a warning to you."<br /> "Taylor, that wooden box of his has a mechanism. It must hold something valuable! We can't let him take it with him," Madison, enduring the pain, reminded them.<br /> "Mom, your injury is important. We'll deal with him later. Let me take you to the hospital first." Taylor comforted Madison before calling out to the retreating Wesley.<br /> "Our marriage is over! Yet, you dared to hurt my mother! This won't be the end of it! I will make you regret it!" Ignoring her, Wesley continued walking out.<br /> "Rest assured, I promise he won't see the light of day tomorrow." Henry stepped forward to console. "Let's focus on getting your wound treated first."<br /> "I want him to regret ever existing in this world, to apologize to me in repentance," Madison roared.<br /> "Mom, trust me, I will make him do just that." Taylor looked at Madison with a mix of pity and determination. "Let's go to the hospital first."<br /> In the villa area, Wesley halted, his voice cold. "Get out."<br /> An elderly gent leaped down from a tree, appearing to be in his seventies, yet landing silently from a height of around ten feet.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, your father wants you to come home and take charge."<br /> "He stopped being my father five years ago. He's my enemy."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you misunderstood your father. He had his reasons back then. I swear in my life, once you know the truth, you will forgive him."<br /> "Huh!" Wesley smirked coldly, saying, "I nearly passed away back then. Is that also a misunderstanding?"<br /> The old gent pleaded, "Mr. Harrington, this situation is truly not as you perceive it."<br /> Wesley didn't engage further with the old guy. The events of that year were etched in his memory forever. He was the one who had been abandoned. If not for that incident, why would he have stayed with the Reed family for five years?<br /> Watching Wesley walk away, the old gent had tears silently streaming down his face. "Mr. Harrington, I truly... I truly can't bring myself to speak the truth, but you have misunderstood your father. He also bears burdens and endures pains beyond what an ordinary person can handle."<br /> As Wesley's figure disappeared, the old gent stood up, hesitated for a moment, then dialed a number on his phone.<br /> "Mr. Harrington is now divorced. I've given you the news firsthand. If your daughter is truly together with Mr. Harrington, you must fulfill the promise and let her persuade Mr. Harrington to come home."<br /> After hanging up, a middle-aged gent in a luxurious estate jumped up excitedly. Calming himself, he immediately made another call. "My dear, you're at Yeadeo, right?<br /> "Go find Wesley now. Don't mention the engagement for now. Use every means to get close to him, make him fall in love with you."<br /> "Dad, I don't have time."<br /> "No matter what you are busy with, you must go find Wesley now. No matter what reason you approach him, you must leave a good impression the first time."<br /> "Dad, I'm in trouble right now. If I don't handle it well, I might be good as gone. I have to deal with it immediately. I'm hanging up."<br /> Chapter 3 <br /> The middle-aged gent's voice lowered significantly. "Is there a big incident happening? You didn't tell me? What happened?"<br /> "Quinn Kingsley from Yeadeo, Mr. Kingsley, used our product and now has one foot on the grave. If something really happens to him..."<br /> "You mean Quinn, the uncontested leader of Yeadeo?"<br /> "Yes."<br /> "In that case, you should go find Wesley. Trust me, in this world, there is no problem that Wesley can't solve. As long as he's willing to help, you'll be fine. Listen to me, go find Wesley immediately."<br /> The lady fell silent for a moment before saying, "Okay."<br /> At Yeadeo Harbor, a gent with a large flaxen chain and a watch, sporting a crew cut, hurriedly disembarked, accompanied by a dozen gentlemen.<br /> "Mr. Reed, wherever that trash is, we will find him and tear him apart."<br /> "Yes, that guy dared to harm your mother. We'll make sure he pays for it."<br /> Frank Reed's face turned cold. "Wesley, you coward, thinking you can overturn the world? How dare you touch my mom? Just wait until I find you, you're finished."<br /> "We've found him. Wesley got into a taxi, and our boys followed him."<br /> "Let's go!" Frank waved his hand, leading dozens of men who boarded the car with harpoons, steel pipes, and other weapons.<br /> Inside the taxi, Wesley gazed at the scenery outside, feeling a strange sense of tranquility.<br /> He thought to himself, "I never imagined that while I was secretly paving the way for the Reed family, Taylor, after progressing so rapidly, would start looking down on me more and more."<br /> "Those ladies who know my true identity, which one of them isn't trying to throw themselves at me? Ladies like that don't interest me."<br /> "Being an ordinary gent is truly difficult," Wesley murmured, smiling faintly and deciding not to dwell on these matters anymore. He had important things to attend to and no time to waste on personal affairs.<br /> "Young lad, are you going to Feidgeuo Manor for a job interview?" The driver, curious about Wesley's destination, inquired.<br /> Feidgeuo Manor was Yeadeo's most mysterious private area. Originally a villa area, it was bought at a huge cost five years ago and completely renovated. It was said to have cost a trillion dollars. The former villa area was now Feidgeuo Manor.<br /> "That's my home," Wesley replied nonchalantly.<br /> The driver was taken aback by this revelation, silently cursing Wesley for bragging. After a couple of minutes, the driver regained his composure. "It seems like you and I both prefer to keep a low profile. My car usually gathers dust at home, so I occasionally drive a taxi to experience life."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "My car has been driven by my assistant for the past few years, so it's not gathering dust."<br /> "Haha..." The driver laughed. "We should get together sometime and see whose car is more impressive."<br /> "Sure, whenever we have the time."<br /> As they chatted, the vehicle soon arrived near Feidgeuo Manor, where the massive head of the Feidgeuo Peak protruded, creating a unique landscape in Yeadeo.<br /> The driver asked with a smile, "Since you're the owner here, it's fine if I drive in, right?"<br /> "Of course," Wesley replied.<br /> As soon as Wesley spoke, several cars caught up from behind.<br /> The cars surrounded the one Wesley was in, with the front vehicles braking to force the car to a stop.<br /> When numerous people descended from cars wielding harpoons and steel pipes, the driver's face paled.<br /> Frank and his group got out of the cars, instantly closing in, and without hesitation, started attacking, the steel pipes and harpoons thudding against the car.<br /> Frank's henchman yanked open the door of Wesley's car, poised to stab Wesley with a harpoon, but Wesley swiftly exited the vehicle.<br /> With a firm step on the ground, he launched a swift hit.<br /> A muffled sound echoed as the henchman was hit away.<br /> "What are you looking at?" Frank noticed his henchmen were all staring at him. "All of you, attack together and take him down!"<br /> As he commanded, the henchmen Frank brought with him surged forward.<br /> The taxi driver, trembling, took out his phone to call the police, but Frank glared at him. "I am Frank Reed from Yeadeo Harbor. If you dare, go ahead and make that call."<br /> Frank, leveraging his sister Taylor's status, had been causing trouble in Yeadeo Harbor, and no one dared to provoke him.<br /> Upon hearing Frank's name, the driver hastily put away his phone. "Mr. Reed, I'll just check the time, you guys continue."<br /> "Huh!" Frank snorted coldly, casting his gaze towards the surrounded Wesley.<br /> The sounds of thuds continued to ring out incessantly. Because Wesley was completely surrounded, Frank was unable to see the situation inside clearly, but he could imagine it. After all, in Frank's mind, the henchmen under his command were not to be trifled with.<br /> "Hit him hard for me!"<br /> Another muffled sound and a figure flew out. At that moment, Frank finally saw the situation clearly, and his face turned pale.<br /> Frank knew that Wesley liked to practice martial arts, but he had never expected Wesley to be this skilled. It wasn't Wesley who had been beaten, but his own men by Wesley alone.<br /> Frantically, Frank turned and ran to retrieve a crossbow from the car.<br /> "Clear the way." Frank bellowed, aiming the crossbow at Wesley.<br /> "You scumbag, you think you can fight? Move one more time, and I'll end your life! Surrender!"<br /> Wesley, holding a wooden box, stared at Frank. Ignoring the crossbow in his hand, Wesley said, "Tell your henchmen to back off, or you'll all see the light from above!"<br /> "You're really good at pretending to be tough." Frank took two steps forward. "See the light? Move a muscle and see if I can end your life or not! If you don't have the guts, apologize now!"<br /> Wesley turned his head and looked at the approaching cars, with two expensive ones in the lead, two more in the rear, and another one in the middle.<br /> "Keep acting tough, and I'll put a hole in your head." Frank spoke while glancing at the five cars. "What, looking for help?"<br /> "Let me tell you, those who ride in these cars are not the kind of weaklings like you who rely on connections. With me here, in Yeadeo's social hierarchy, even those who ride in such cars wouldn't dare meddle in this matter. And let me make it clear, without my sister, you're nothing."<br /> <br /> Chapter 4<br /> As Frank's words faded, the five cars came to a halt.<br /> A bodyguard opened the door of the one in the middle, revealing a dazzling pair of shining shoes catching everyone's eye.<br /> The shining shoe encased a beautiful foot. Above, the skirt's hem was adorned with lace.<br /> Then, like a fairy stepping out of a painting, she appeared before everyone's eyes.<br /> The lady was beautiful!<br /> Frank was mesmerized. Ever since the Reed family rose to prominence, he had been surrounded by ladies, but compared to the elegant lady before him, they were worlds apart.<br /> It wasn't just a difference in appearance but an incomparable gap in demeanor.<br /> The lady descending from the Maybach seemed like a celestial being untouched by mortal affairs.<br /> The embodiment of a fairy in the mundane world.<br /> She simply stood there after getting out of the car, perfectly embodying what it meant to be graceful and elegant.<br /> The lady glanced at Wesley, then at Frank.<br /> Frank grinned, saying, "May I have the honor of knowing the name of this esteemed lady? I am Frank..."<br /> The lady spoke calmly. "Disrespect Mr. Harrington, and you're done for."<br /> Her bodyguards, unfazed by Frank's crossbow, swiftly overwhelmed him, sending him crashing to the ground.<br /> The henchmen who had come with Frank, previously defeated by Wesley, now scrambled to their feet and fled in all directions.<br /> Who would dare provoke someone who could afford such a car?<br /> "My sister is Taylor Reed, the chairperson of Reed Group," Frank shouted, clutching his head.<br /> Ignoring him, one of the bodyguards dragged him to the roadside grass while another used a belt to tighten around Frank's neck, exerting pressure.<br /> "Enough, a lesson is all that's needed." Wesley spoke calmly, and only when the lady gestured did the bodyguards release Frank.<br /> Frank lay there, already unconscious.<br /> Wesley turned to the lady. "Who are you?"<br /> "I am Mia Roberts, the general manager of Vinver Business Alliance's Yeadeo branch." She looked at Wesley and continued, "Mr. Harrington, my father mentioned that you have miraculous healing skills and earnestly requested your assistance. A generous reward awaits."<br /> Wesley furrowed his brow slightly, thinking, "There are indeed people who recognize my abilities and status, yet I've rarely intervened in the past five years. Today, shortly after I divorced Taylor, she is here. Whose arrangement is this?"<br /> "Mr. Harrington, my father also mentioned that you are benevolent and has raised the banner of compassion among healers, serving as a role model and benchmark for all in the medical field."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "You have a way with words. Tell me the specifics."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, please get in the car first. I will explain in detail on the way."<br /> The phrase "compassionate healer" held significant weight for Wesley, who had saved countless lives from the brink of death.<br /> Without further ado, he got into the car.<br /> Inside, after Mia brewed coffee for Wesley, she began. "Vinver Business Alliance has a wide range of business operations, and I mainly oversee the health supplement sector, which has seen some success in recent years.<br /> "Recently, Quinn Kingsley started using our medicines, and now there's an accident."<br /> As she spoke, Mia kept her gaze fixed on Wesley.<br /> Quinn, the undisputed leader of Yeadeo, was a figure of immense influence.<br /> Upon hearing this name, Wesley showed no particular reaction. "If the city's leader faces issues with your products, it is indeed a concern. Let's go and see."<br /> With just a sentence, Wesley leaned back in his seat, closing his eyes to rest.<br /> Mia was secretly alarmed, thinking, "He knows who Quinn is, yet he seems indifferent. Who is this Wesley, really? No wonder Dad has instructed me to find a way to win his favor." Mia's inner resistance toward Wesley quietly shifted.<br /> Wesley had piqued her curiosity.<br /> As the vehicle was moving, Wesley's phone rang.<br /> Wesley opened his eyes and took out his phone to see Taylor calling.<br /> Pressing the answer button, he asked, "What's the matter?"<br /> On the other end of the line, Taylor, driving towards Feidgeuo Manor, had a grim expression.<br /> She thought, "Has Wesley ever spoken to me in such a cold tone before? Is he really this heartless right after our divorce?"<br /> Already furious, she snapped. "Wesley, do you even consider yourself a human being?<br /> "Today, not only did you lay hands on my mother, but you also had someone attack my brother. Do you not remember our past at all?"<br /> Wesley calmly replied, "Do we have a past to remember?"<br /> "You truly are a heartless scumbag, just as my mother said. You are an ungrateful and vicious person I raised for five years. Even a pet would wag its tail at me!"<br /> Taylor wanted to continue her tirade, but the phone line had already turned busy.<br /> This only fueled her anger further.<br /> Just now, she had received a call from Frank's underlings, informing her that Wesley had sent people to attack Frank and even intended to end him.<br /> Taylor wanted to demand answers, but...<br /> As Taylor was clutching her fists, her gaze turned icy.<br /> After a moment, she picked up her phone again. "Wesley, you are so narrow-minded. You have no ambition. Any lady would steer clear of you."<br /> "Just because I dumped you, you are doing this on purpose to make me feel sick. Pretending to be aloof and seeking revenge? Do you even deserve it?"<br /> "In Yeadeo, squashing you would be as easy as squashing an ant. You're asking for it! If anything happens to my brother, I will make you wish you were ending!"<br /> Her furious voice message echoed in the car.<br /> Wesley chuckled and put away his phone.<br /> Beside him, Mia seemed contemplative. Before coming, she had already ordered a swift investigation into Wesley.<br /> She was curious, thinking, "How could someone valued by my father could be the one 'marrying into' the Reed family."<br /> Being tactful, Mia chose not to ask and pretended not to have heard.<br /> After about forty minutes, they arrived at the Kingsley Manor.<br /> The Kingsley family members, upon seeing Mia alight from the car, all wore grim expressions.<br /> Mia greeted them with a smile, "Everyone, this is Wesley Harrington, Mr. Harrington, the miraculous healer I specially invited to treat Mr. Kingsley."<br /> "Him? The gent who married into the Reed family?"<br /> "A miraculous healer? Is he even worthy? Are healers so worthless now?"<br /> "A useless gent who mooches off of the Reed family? How dare he call himself a miraculous healer? Truly a joke among all jokes."<br /> Chapter 5<br /> <br /> Amanda Kingsley, Quinn's granddaughter, stared coldly at Wesley and Mia.<br /> This lady, dressed in a smart suit, also held significant fame in Yeadeo, overseeing the region's business activities, including investment attraction and various local business negotiations.<br /> Amanda had a favorable view of Taylor, who had risen swiftly in recent times, and they had interacted frequently.<br /> She was aware of Wesley's existence and had advised Taylor to part ways with him early on.<br /> But Amanda never imagined that Mia would bring someone like Wesley, a complete waste, and claim he was a miraculous healer.<br /> Glaring at Mia, she said, "Mia, once my grandfather is well, it's best for your Roberts family to leave Yeadeo."<br /> "As for you..." She glanced at Wesley. "I will advise Taylor to divorce you. You have deceived Taylor's feelings and now shamelessly made your way into my family. You are a despicable creature."<br /> After reprimanding Mia and Wesley, she turned to an elderly gent beside her, and her tone and attitude completely changed. "Mr. Phillips, sorry to trouble you. My grandfather is inside, please."<br /> Mia looked at the elderly gent, who was already in his twilight years, feeling deeply shocked.<br /> Scott Phillips, the 38th generation heir of the Healing Clinic, was now ninety-two years old.<br /> Renowned as a miraculous healer, he was a respected figure in the medical community of Yeadeo and even nationally.<br /> He no longer conducted consultations personally due to his old age. Mia had visited him specifically to pay her respects once she had arrived in Yeadeo but had not met Scott.<br /> She never expected Scott to appear in person. It was understandable, as Quinn held a prominent position in the city. Despite the profound influence of the Phillips family, they still had to show respect to Quinn.<br /> Mia looked at Wesley, feeling conflicted and thinking, "Dad has confidently claimed that Wesley has extraordinary abilities, but does he really?"<br /> She harbored doubts, but out of propriety, Mia spoke. "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the trouble."<br /> Wesley smiled, "It's fine. As long as the person can be healed."<br /> His open-mindedness impressed Mia.<br /> After about half an hour, Amanda emerged from the room. All eyes instantly turned towards her.<br /> It was evident that Amanda had wailed out, with traces of tears still visible.<br /> "Amanda, how is it?" A middle-aged gent anxiously asked her.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family who had rushed back also focused their attention on her.<br /> "Mr. Phillips said that there's little hope of recovery. He could only use acupuncture to wake grandfather for half an hour. When grandfather wakes up, let's all go in and see if he has any final instructions."<br /> Everyone was shocked.<br /> "How could this be?"<br /> "Is Mr. Phillips also helpless?"<br /> The members of the Kingsley family found it hard to accept this reality, especially since Quinn had always treated his juniors well.<br /> The thought of Quinn departing saddened some, and tears silently fell.<br /> Publicly, Quinn's status was the foundation of the Kingsley family's prominence in Yeadeo.<br /> If Quinn were to pass away, the Kingsley family would undoubtedly decline.<br /> The atmosphere within the Kingsley family was somber.<br /> Amanda looked at her family members, opened her mouth, but said nothing, silently turning back into the room.<br /> "Stop crying," A middle-aged gent said sternly, "Dad wouldn't want to see you all in tears. If he's really leaving, we mustn't let him worry about us. Pull yourselves together."<br /> After these words, the middle-aged gent also entered the room.<br /> The younger members of the Kingsley family wiped their tears vigorously, trying to force smiles, but in truth, they looked better at crying than pretending to be happy.<br /> Mia's spirit plummeted as she realized the gravity of the situation. Even if an ordinary person passed away from consuming health supplements, it spelled big trouble for those who sold them. And when the deceased happened to be Quinn, the stakes were even higher.<br /> She understood that it would be difficult for this branch to stay in Yeadeo, and even the headquarters might face repercussions.<br /> "Let's go in and have a look." Wesley glanced at Mia. "There might still be a chance."<br /> "Ah..." Mia stared at Wesley in surprise. Seeing him already heading towards the room, she quickly followed suit.<br /> Inside the room, the members of the Kingsley family stood around the mattress, maintaining a certain distance.<br /> Scott lit the alcohol lamp and took out the needles, his expression solemn.<br /> He looked at the members of the Kingsley family. "Think about what you want to say to Mr. Kingsley later. Once you're ready, let me know, and then I'll proceed with the acupuncture."<br /> As he said this, tears welled up in many eyes.<br /> "If you don't mind, let me take a look. I have a way." Wesley spoke up, drawing everyone's attention.<br /> Amanda's face darkened. "Who let you in? Get out!"<br /> "Mia, have you lost your mind? Tricked by this trash and actually brought him here as a miracle healer. Get out with him! I'll settle the score with you in a couple of days."<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, at a loss for words.<br /> "Even Mr. Phillips is unable to reverse the situation. What use are you? Get out." Another younger member of the Kingsley family angrily rebuked.<br /> The middle-aged gent added, "We're in no mood right now. You better leave immediately."<br /> "I understand your narrow-mindedness," Wesley continued, "But as a healer, once I see a patient, I cannot stand by and watch him draw his last breath."<br /> "Wesley, you're quite the charlatan. Do you really want to be gone right now?" Amanda's voice was filled with anger.<br /> "Amanda, let me say a few words," Scott interjected, and Amanda fell silent.<br /> Looking at Wesley, Scott began. "Young lad, at my age, I've seen a lot and have a broad perspective. Today, however, I find it hard to remain indifferent. I practiced medicine from the age of sixteen until I stopped seeing patients for a total of seventy years."<br /> "I've saved countless patients from various illnesses. I never easily declare a patient's fate, nor do I believe I have the right to do so."<br /> "But from your recent remarks, it seems like you're accusing me of such actions. Young people wanting to make a name for themselves by stepping on the shoulders of their predecessors, I can understand."<br /> "But this kind of behavior displeases me."<br /> "My displeasure, what does it mean to you? Do you understand?"<br /> "Even if you are a healer, your career will be ruined because of this."<br /> Chapter 6 <br /> In the face of Scott's veiled threats, Wesley simply smiled and brushed them off.<br /> Looking at Scott, he asked, "I've always focused on the issue at hand rather than attacking individuals. I have a few questions for you. If you can't administer the needles, how long do you think Quinn can hold on?"<br /> "Seven days, but he will remain unconscious," Scott replied bluntly.<br /> "Then let me ask you this, is there anyone in the world with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "Outrageous," Amanda coldly interjected, "Mr. Phillips is unparalleled in his medical expertise."<br /> Scott glanced at Amanda. "Amanda, let me handle this question."<br /> Continuing to address Wesley, he said, "I don't underestimate myself, nor do I overestimate. There are countless talented individuals in the world, like stars in the sky. I may not dare claim to be the best in medical skills, but those who surpass me are few."<br /> "That means there are some," Wesley calmly remarked, causing Scott's expression to shift slightly, "Indeed, there are."<br /> "Then let me ask you this. Do you think within seven days, the Kingsley family won't find someone with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "If they do find someone, do you believe there is an illness that you cannot cure, but this person can?"<br /> Wesley's questions were sharp and resounding.<br /> Scott's face changed once more as he was rendered speechless.<br /> "Even if there is, that person will never be you." Amanda's face turned icy. "Now get out. Don't spout your eloquence here. Your deceitful behavior is repulsive."<br /> "Your understanding of me is merely hearsay, isn't it?" Wesley retorted, his gaze mocking Amanda, "Has your background and education taught you such arrogance and prejudice?"<br /> "Arrogance?" Amanda's face grew colder as she disdainfully looked at Wesley. "Prejudice?<br /> "Did I say something wrong just now? You are nothing but stagnant waste, a parasite living off others. If it weren't for Taylor, you would have starved on the streets long ago."<br /> "Relying on sweet words, deceiving Taylor. She, with her kind heart, can't bear to divorce you, but don't push your luck. If it weren't for Taylor's sake, you would have been sent out long ago."<br /> Scott interrupted Amanda, "Amanda, although I find this lad a bit annoying, what he said does hold some truth. There are indeed individuals with better medical skills than me. Your grandfather can hold on for seven days. Try reaching out to see if someone can come over. I'll help you make connections."<br /> "If it really doesn't work out after seven days, I'll administer the needles to your grandfather. However, at that point, I can only buy you three minutes."<br /> As soon as Scott spoke, the faces of the Kingsley family members grew even more solemn. True healers were rare and not easily summoned.<br /> While the Kingsley family had connections in Yeadeo, their influence waned outside of it.<br /> "Mr. Phillips, please administer the needles. Life has its ups and downs, and we understand that. Just buy my father a bit more time." The middle-aged gent spoke up.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family nodded in agreement.<br /> Amanda looked at Scott. "Mr. Phillips, please."<br /> "In that case, please have everyone unrelated leave. I need silence," Scott calmly stated.<br /> Amanda glared at Wesley, her eyes speaking volumes without a word.<br /> The unrelated individuals were, naturally, Wesley and Mia.<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, intending to leave, but she suddenly hesitated.<br /> Instead of leaving, Wesley moved forward.<br /> "What are you doing?" A young member of the Kingsley family stepped forward with a stern expression, pushing Wesley.<br /> In one swift motion, Wesley executed a clean shoulder throw, toppling the young gent to the ground, his own expression turning cold.<br /> "A bunch of fools! If it weren't for my teacher's teachings about not turning a blind eye to those in need, I wouldn't bother with you ignorant lot," Wesley remarked with disdain.<br /> As Wesley effortlessly took down one individual from the Kingsley family, the others seemed slow to react.<br /> By the time they realized what was happening, Wesley had already picked up the needle next to Scott and casually flicked his wrist.<br /> The needle flew out of his hand, piercing Quinn's temple, followed by a second needle, a third needle, and so on.<br /> "What are you doing? Stop!" Amanda's voice rose in urgency, echoed by the rest of the Kingsley family members who rushed forward to restrain Wesley.<br /> "Stay back, everyone. Wait." Scott suddenly stood up, blocking the others. "Let him try."<br /> Amanda and the others were left dumbfounded, thinking, "What does this mean?"<br /> Despite their confusion, they heeded Scott's words.<br /> After Scott stopped the members of the Kingsley family, he fixed his gaze on Wesley.<br /> Wesley proceeded to use eighteen needles in succession, symbolizing the levels of pain.<br /> Even if someone had descended into the depths of hell, they must be brought back.<br /> The final needle, also piercing a vital point, caused Quinn's body to tremble suddenly, resonating with the previous eighteen needles.<br /> Scott's eyes widened, his body trembling slightly. His reaction left Amanda and the others even more puzzled, but none dared to interrupt.<br /> Moments later, Wesley placed a palm on Quinn's chest, causing all eighteen needles to be shaken off. When all the needles landed on the ground, the part of the skin where the needles had pierced turned dark.<br /> Wesley then dragged Quinn to the edge of the mattress, flipped him over with his head facing downwards, and gave him a firm pat on the back.<br /> Quinn spat out a mouthful of black liquid. When Wesley flipped him back to lie flat, his complexion had regained some color.<br /> "The Hand of Darkness... It's the Hand of Darkness!" Scott exclaimed with excitement, his body quivering, "It's the Hand that descends into the dark world, snatching people from the hands of the Evil!"<br /> "You do have some knowledge, recognizing the Hand of Darkness." Wesley glanced at Scott.<br /> Scott's gaze towards Wesley had undergone a drastic change. He respectfully clasped his hands together.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thirty years ago, I had the honor of attending a teaching conference held by Mr. Vanderbilt. I saw the Hand of Darkness, but my limited aptitude only allowed me to grasp the basics."<br /> "I have been blind and ignorant. I apologize for my earlier offenses. Please forgive me, Mr. Harrington."<br /> The Mr. Vanderbilt Scott referred to was Wesley's teacher, Ulysses Vanderbilt. He generously imparted his skills to others, but the ability to learn depended on one's innate talent.<br /> In this world, few could learn Ulysses' skills.<br /> Scott had been fortunate to receive guidance from Ulysses, which had elevated his medical skills. However, the Hand of Darkness, a miraculous ability, was beyond his comprehension.<br /> Wesley smiled faintly, "Your actions earlier are understandable. I appreciate your words."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you must be an exceptional disciple of Mr. Vanderbilt, possessing unparalleled magnanimity. Impressive," Scott continued.<br /> "Enough with the flattery at your age."<br /> "You are mistaken, Mr. Harrington. Every word I speak is sincere."<br /> Mia, Amanda, and the others stood bewildered by the unfolding situation.<br /> "Mr. Phillips... he... he..." Amanda's words faltered.<br /> Scott turned to the members of the Kingsley family. "Meeting Mr. Harrington was Quinn's luck. His symptoms have been cured by Mr. Harrington. With a few days of rest, he will be fine."<br /> The waste Taylor had previously said was called Mr. Harrington by Scott!<br /> Recalling their previous attitudes, Amanda hurriedly apologized, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> The members of the Kingsley family all apologized in unison, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> Chapter 7 <br /> With a faint smile, Wesley remarked, "As family members of a patient, your actions earlier are understandable. There's no need for such formality."<br /> Amanda's perplexity deepened as she thought, "Where is the cowardly waste that Taylor described? This display of magnanimity and breadth is far from it."<br /> Mia, too, felt a shiver of realization, thinking, "No wonder Dad has insisted on my proximity to Wesley.<br /> This guy..."<br /> She gazed at Wesley, her curiosity piqued, a sense of exploration stirring within her.<br /> "Mia has brought you here, Mr. Harrington, to cure my grandfather. The Kingsley family will never forget this act. However, considering that my grandfather's ailment stemmed from the health supplements produced by the Vinver Business Alliance, we will be conducting an investigation into it."<br /> Amanda continued, looking at Wesley, "What do you think... of this approach?"<br /> It was Mia who had invited Wesley, so Amanda had grown wiser, refraining from asking for a direct punishment of the Vinver Business Alliance.<br /> As Mia heard Amanda's words, her heart skipped a beat, realizing trouble was brewing.<br /> "On the way here, Ms. Roberts briefed me on the situation. You conducted experiments on mice, correct?"<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes, the health supplements we received were exclusively provided by the Roberts family. There were no similar cases on the market, so we used mice for testing.<br /> "All the mice that ingested this supplement were gone."<br /> She looked at Mia and added, her voice turning colder, "Before the experiment, I specifically contacted Mia to inquire about the testing methods during the development phase, which involved mice.<br /> "There have been individuals eyeing my grandfather's position, some even wishing for his demise. I never imagined that the Vinver Business Alliance, which I attracted for investment, would become a weapon in someone else's hands."<br /> "Do you have any of the remaining medicine?" Wesley inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes."<br /> "Bring some over."<br /> Immediately, someone fetched the medicine. After it was brought to him, Wesley took out a supplement and swallowed it directly.<br /> This scene left Amanda and the others dumbfounded.<br /> Scott, too, was bewildered. "Mr. Harrington, what are you doing?"<br /> Wesley smiled, "Just proving that this medicine is not toxic."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thank you," Mia thanked sincerely, feeling like crying at that moment.<br /> Amanda, with a puzzled expression, looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, are you suggesting that my grandfather's condition wasn't caused by the Vinver Business Alliance's medicine? What about the mice?"<br /> The rest were equally puzzled.<br /> "Yes, but not entirely," Wesley said, leaving everyone even more bewildered.<br /> Mia's emotions were like a rollercoaster ride, from relief to immediate tension.<br /> "This medicine itself is not toxic, but when taken with another substance made from a certain plant, it results in Quinn's condition. The mice would die immediately, while humans could endure a few more days."<br /> Wesley continued to explain, "The plant used in this concoction is originally meant for crafting slow-acting toxins, not for human consumption."<br /> Looking at Amanda, Wesley said, "During this period, whoever had access to your grandfather and the mice will better understand why these events occurred."<br /> The gaze of members of the Kingsley family immediately focused on a lady.<br /> Amanda, somewhat incredulous, looked at her. "Can you offer an explanation?"<br /> The lady was the wife of Amanda's deceased brother. She found it hard to accept, as did the rest of the Kingsley family.<br /> This lady had been named the exemplary lady who served her family well this year, not due to her connection with the Kingsley family but because she genuinely deserved it.<br /> "What do you mean? Amanda, what explanation do you want from me?"<br /> The lady stared at Amanda. "Am I the only one who had access to Grandfather and the mice? You, and you... and you, who didn't have access?"<br /> "You all claim to treat me as family. Since I married into the Kingsley family, I have worked diligently, contributing my share even if not acknowledged."<br /> "Amanda, it has been over a year since your brother passed, and I never once considered remarrying. Now, just because of his words, you demand an explanation from me?"<br /> Pointing at Wesley, the lady questioned, "Just because he accuses me of poisoning, you suspect me? Tell me, did I poison him?" The lady glared at Wesley.<br /> "I am merely analyzing the facts. As for concluding this case, it's not within my purview," Wesley addressed the members of the Kingsley family, saying, "You should conduct a thorough investigation into this matter.<br /> "I will write a prescription. Have Quinn take it on time, and he will recover in seven days."<br /> Amanda hurried to fetch paper and pen while Wesley prepared the prescription. Once done, he was ready to leave.<br /> Amanda said hurriedly, "Mr. Harrington, I've already made arrangements for lunch."<br /> "No need," Wesley smiled.<br /> The Kingsley family sought to build closer ties with Wesley, given his extraordinary medical skills. Wesley was well aware of this.<br /> Looking at Amanda and the others, Wesley remarked, "In the future, if you encounter any difficult medical cases that others cannot solve, seek me out. Remember, cases others cannot solve."<br /> The gaze of the Kingsley family members toward Wesley changed once again. Many renowned healers had eccentric personalities and were difficult to engage.<br /> They hadn't expected Wesley to possess such remarkable medical skills without any airs.<br /> As Wesley prepared to depart, the members of the Kingsley family did not dare to insist on his stay, so they accompanied him outside.<br /> "Oh, how could we forget such an important matter? Amanda, what about the consultation fee?" The middle-aged gent inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the oversight. Please wait a moment." Amanda hurried back inside and soon returned with a bank card in hand.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, there's one million dollars in here."<br /> Without hesitation, Wesley accepted the bank card and boarded Mia's car.<br /> During the journey, Mia boldly looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, you've helped me immensely. Can I treat you to a meal? Don't decline in a hurry. It's not a fancy restaurant, but it will leave you wanting more. It's a small place on the street, with only eight plates of noodles served each day, each plate containing different ingredients.<br /> "I managed to secure a reservation. Are you interested?"<br /> Wesley thought, "Eight Plates of Noodles? Ah, Aaron's restaurant. It has been a while since I visited those old friends."<br /> Wesley nodded. "Let's go then."<br /> The restaurant, Eight Plates of Noodles, was located on Chanxold Street near the Yeadeo First Central Hospital.<br /> The establishment was small, serving only eight plates of noodles each day at a price of 10 thousand dollars each. Vernoic's television culinary program had specifically covered this incident.<br /> Reservations were a must to secure a plate.<br /> The restaurant's owner had a mysterious background. While the specifics were unknown, a high-ranking noble from the capital of Vernoic, Kingsland, had caused a scene there once.<br /> He had attempted to force his way in without a reservation. Although this incident hadn't been reported, rumors suggested that a garbage truck had to be called to dispose of the intruder's remains, as he was too shattered to be removed by conventional means.<br /> Since then, no one dared to cause trouble.<br /> On their way, Mia introduced Wesley to the background story.<br /> "Mr. Turner, two plates of noodles." Mia called out once they arrived.<br /> Aaron Turner didn't respond but visibly paused upon seeing Wesley beside Mia.<br /> A faint smile appeared on his usually stoic face. Though the flesh on the face seemed stiff, it was indeed a smile. "Coming right up."<br /> Mia glanced at Aaron with a hint of surprise, thinking, "When did he become so warm and enthusiastic? His tone seemed a bit agitated earlier, didn't it?"<br /> Soon enough, Aaron brought two plates of noodles to the table. One steaming hot and the other devoid of any warmth.<br /> As Mia observed Aaron placing the plate without steam in front of Wesley, her expression changed slightly.<br /> It was a plate of instant noodles having soaked in cold water, with the seasoning barely dissolved.<br /> She felt a sense of panic. Mia had wanted to leave a good impression on Wesley, which was why she had chosen this place.<br /> However, Aaron had served such a plate of noodles.<br /> She dared not question Aaron. The type of noodles served here was not determined by the guests but by Aaron's mood.<br /> "This girl named Mia is quite something, living up to her name, and quite kind-hearted," Aaron remarked, looking at Wesley.<br /> "Get lost," Wesley retorted, using his fork to pick up the noodles and devouring them.<br /> Mia's face turned pale instantly. Disrespecting Aaron was akin to risking Wesley's life.<br /> To her astonishment, Aaron chuckled, tears welling up in his eyes.<br /> He wiped them away. "Alright, I'll leave you to your meal."<br /> Before departing, he gave Mia a thumbs-up. "Seize the opportunity."<br /> The eight plates of noodles symbolized the eight comrades who had faced life and life-threatening situations together.<br /> Wesley ate voraciously. Initially, they had only one pack of instant noodles to share among the eight of them, forcing them to divide it.<br /> Despite the circumstances, they devoured the noodles joyfully.<br /> Aaron had promised that once they survived, each one would have the most delicious plate of noodles.<br /> However, five of the eight had perished.<br /> Wesley had come dangerously close to life-threatening situations, but managed to cling to life.<br /> For him, the plate of noodles was not food but the bond of friendship that had shielded him from harm.<br /> "Do you... know each other?" Mia couldn't help but ask, her voice low and curious.<br /> "Some things are better left unknown," Wesley replied.<br /> Mia nodded in understanding, falling silent as they continued eating noodles. She couldn't help stealing glances at Wesley throughout the meal.<br /> This gent had piqued her curiosity even more.<br /> "Wesley, I see. No wonder you agreed to the divorce so readily. You've already found someone else outside."<br /> A sharp voice interrupted their meal.<br /> Taylor approached with a cold expression, accompanied by Henry. | Adoread Romance story | 106 | https://facebook.com/61557113391558 | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1713250800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846725 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446608 | 1735168083 | 890 | 1107015940518953 | 1 | 1.1208167825156E+15 | 1714114800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 235254296344339 | 0 | Adoread Romance story | 120207848356320113 | play.google.com | Install now | NONE | video | HOT BOOK✨Tap the button to read more👉 | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.adoread.book | 1713261158 | 2.3525429634434E+14 | Adoread Romance story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437773742_3667519006899729_254128810596551141_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VvK9E3esQ3UQ7kNvgFQEFGU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD_Nmgg6eDm2qRcBHYVpeiBW3ch6JzDhl6msL0XHSmjHg&oe=6664084C | person_profile | 0 | Adoread Romance story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437953308_979639367206677_1331201342836189175_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=L0_HyJNuNOMQ7kNvgF7avgK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDG-o0XIenMpU7WehPn8UgKiXaTsD4oqgUupFqfLdHmtA&oe=6663E1C5 | 0 | 3 | Chapter 1 <br /> "Wesley, are you trying to harm me? You useless piece of trash, can't even make a decent cup of coffee, can you?"<br /> Madison Blair lifted her coffee cup and splashed it directly onto Wesley Harrington's face.<br /> "What are you looking at, you spineless waste? Your name sounds so lofty? I might as well call you a waste."<br /> Glancing at the grotesque expression of his wife's mother, Wesley pulled out his phone to check the time.<br /> Exactly twelve o'clock. It had been five full years since he married Taylor Reed.<br /> The appointed time had come.<br /> He had fulfilled his promise, safeguarding the Reed family for five years, transforming them from a family living off fishing to one perceived as affluent by the common folk.<br /> Wiping the coffee off his face, he turned and walked away.<br /> "Where do you think you're going? Go fetch some more coffee," Madison shouted.<br /> "Madison, didn't you say this waste is obedient at home, doing whatever he's told? I don't think he's taking it lying down."<br /> Madison grew angrier. "Wesley, you stop right there. My family has fed and housed you. If you dare disobey, I'll have you thrown out!"<br /> Ignoring her, Wesley continued downstairs.<br /> "When Taylor comes back, I'll immediately have you two divorced. Do you hear me? Stay right there," Madison threatened, "I'll let you know your place today."<br /> Grabbing a golf club, Madison swiftly charged towards Wesley.<br /> Seeing Wesley heading downstairs, she swung the club viciously at his back.<br /> Without turning back, Wesley gently sidestepped.<br /> Losing her balance, Madison tumbled forward, rolling down the stairs with a series of thumps.<br /> "Ouch... it hurts, it hurts so much!"<br /> As Madison reached the ground floor, she wailed in pain and her sister immediately rushed to her.<br /> "Wesley, what have you done? How dare you hit my sister!" Madison's sister hurried down, checking on Madison's condition.<br /> Wesley remained silent, observing the scene.<br /> "Quick, call Taylor. Tell her to come back. Today, she must divorce this waste." Madison glared at Wesley. "How dare you hit me? Not only will I let Taylor divorce you, but I'll make sure you leave in disgrace."<br /> "Mum, what's wrong?" At that moment, a gent and a lady walked in.<br /> The lady was Taylor, Madison's daughter.<br /> She ran towards Madison.<br /> As Madison pointed at Wesley, tears streamed down her face. "Taylor, he hit me, he hit me! When you're not home, he changes his attitude, scolding and hitting me in the slightest displeasure. He even pushed me down the stairs just now. Alexis can testify."<br /> Madison's sister, Alexis Blair, chimed in. "Yes, Wesley, this trash not only hit your mother but also threatened to hit me too. We cannot tolerate such trash."<br /> "Taylor, I have been telling you to divorce him for years. You've been supporting him, treating him like a Lord at home, but he's an ungrateful wolf in sheep's clothing."<br /> Helping Madison up, Taylor noticed the scrapes on Madison's arms and legs, her expression turning cold.<br /> "Wesley, why did you hit my mother? You better give me an explanation."<br /> Wesley looked at Taylor, his wife.<br /> Five years had passed, and she had never shown him kindness.<br /> Taylor dressed impeccably, a paragon of a successful lady, with a face that could be deemed angelic, yet whether her heart was as angelic remained a mystery.<br /> Her figure, too, left countless men yearning.<br /> For five years, Wesley had thought he might develop feelings for this lady, but in reality, it never happened.<br /> "There are surveillance cameras in the house," Wesley stated calmly before descending the stairs into the hallway.<br /> Despite residing in a three-story villa, Wesley's living quarters were confined to the stairwell.<br /> He harbored no resentment towards this arrangement. It was merely a promise. It was just that Taylor failed to appreciate him.<br /> This home held little value that he wished to cling onto.<br /> Retrieving a wooden box from beneath his pillow, Wesley extracted two documents. Casting a fleeting glance at the modest abode he had called home for five years, Wesley smiled faintly.<br /> He thought, "Finally... I'm free."<br /> Pushing the door ajar, Wesley was met by Taylor's piercing gaze. "I've reviewed the surveillance footage. Yes, my mother intended to strike you, but even if she did, what difference would it make?"<br /> "She's a lady. How much could her blows hurt you? Why did you dodge?"<br /> "If you hadn't dodged, my mother wouldn't have tumbled down." Wesley stared at Taylor, unable to comprehend her thought process.<br /> He had no interest in engaging in these arguments. Handing over the two documents to Taylor, he remarked, "The divorce agreement. I've already signed it. Take a look. I'm leaving with nothing."<br /> "With your current influence, there's no need for you to visit the city hall. Someone will handle it for you, right?"<br /> Madison was taken aback. She swiftly snatched the divorce agreement, flipping through it hastily.<br /> The contents were indeed straightforward. Both parties willingly divorced, with Wesley relinquishing all claims and having already signed.<br /> In an instant, Madison's pain seemed to dissipate. "Taylor, sign it quickly. Sign it."<br /> Taylor was still in a daze.<br /> She pondered.<br /> "A divorce agreement? Wesley has already prepared a divorce agreement. On what grounds?"<br /> "What gives him the right to initiate a divorce? All these years, he's done nothing at home, lacking any ambition. Always practicing martial arts, what right does he have to seek a divorce?"<br /> "If anyone should initiate it, it should be me. Moreover, now that I'm back to discussing this matter with him. Could it be that word got out, and Wesley, for the sake of his pride, rushed to prepare a divorce agreement first?"<br /> "It must be so, but... No!"<br /> "Wanting to leave with nothing, is he retreating to advance? As the chairman of the Reed Group, how could I be served with a divorce?"<br /> "Hey Wesley, I never expected this from you. Have I not treated you well enough? You seek a divorce, attempting to turn your retreat into advance, aiming to embarrass me?"<br /> Taylor glared at Wesley. "I'm telling you, it's impossible."<br /> Snatching the divorce agreement, she tore it to shreds.<br /> "Taylor, what are you doing? Such a great opportunity. Why not just sign it and let him leave?" Madison grew anxious.<br /> "Mom, I do intend to divorce this trash, but the decision must come from me. I returned specifically to address this matter."<br /> With that, Taylor produced two documents. "Wesley, remember that it's me who's divorcing you. It's me who no longer wants you. Initially, out of marital obligation, I had considered offering you some compensation. Now, you don't even need to think about it. Sign the divorce agreement and leave my home."<br /> Wesley offered a faint smile as he accepted the divorce agreement.<br /> "What are you laughing at?" Taylor demanded angrily.<br /> Wesley's smile seemed to mock her, fueling her rage.<br /> Ignoring her entirely, Wesley signed the document and handed it over.<br /> "What are you laughing at? Answer me! Who do you think you are?" Taylor roared once more.<br /> Wesley glanced at her before striding towards the exit.<br /> "Stop!" The gent who had accompanied Taylor stepped forward, blocking Wesley's path. "Taylor asked you a question, and... Your previous attitude displeased me. Apologize to Taylor, or I'll have you leave in disgrace!"<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 <br /> "Yes, let him leave in disgrace. He thought he could just hit me and walk away so easily," Madison joined in the commotion, also noticing the gent blocking Wesley's path.<br /> Madison had a keen interest in luxury goods, having frequented various high-end establishments over the years as the Reed family's living conditions improved. The gent was wearing an expensive watch and dressed head to toe in high-end luxury brands.<br /> Seeing Madison's gaze, the gent spoke. "Rest assured, today Wesley must pay the price."<br /> The gent introduced himself, looking at Wesley, "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Henry Clark, the eldest son of the Clark family and the general manager of the Clark Group in the North District."<br /> "From now on, I will accompany Taylor on her journey of life, and I will not allow anyone to bully her."<br /> "My identity carries weight. You should understand that. Now, apologize to Taylor. Apologize! Did you hear me? Apologize!"<br /> Madison's eyes lit up. She hadn't expected the gent before her to hold such a high status. She continued to shout, "Did you hear that? Taylor will be with Mr. Clark from now on. Apologize now."<br /> Wesley glanced at Henry, then at Taylor. He thought, "Have they been together all along?" Wesley had wanted to ask but decided against it because there was no need. He simply gave them a glance and continued walking towards the exit.<br /> "Are you ignoring me?" Henry's face turned cold as he reached out to grab Wesley. Henry's hand froze mid-air as he received a solid hit.<br /> "Until I sign the divorce papers, Taylor and I are still wife and husband. I don't care to investigate whether you two had any intimate relationship during that time, but don't provoke me, or I won't hesitate to make you regret it." Wesley's gaze was icy, and as Henry met his eyes, he felt a twinge of fear and swallowed his words.<br /> Taylor was also stunned. She knew exactly what Wesley had been like over the past five years. There were many surveillance cameras in the house, and she would often check them.<br /> Even when Taylor wasn't home, despite how her family treated Wesley, he always obeyed without complaint, especially towards her. He had never raised his voice, no matter how they treated him.<br /> Today, not only did Wesley dodge when her mother struck, but he also initiated the divorce and now even struck Henry. <br /> Taylor was at a loss for words, thinking, "How could this cowardly gent dare? On what grounds does he dare?"<br /> This change was difficult for Taylor to accept as if she didn't truly understand this guy. The gent who used to be obedient to her, completely submissive, now revealed this side of himself. She watched Wesley walk away in a daze, feeling a strange discomfort in her heart.<br /> "Isn't he leaving with nothing?" Alexis pointed at the wooden box Wesley was holding. "What is he taking with him?"<br /> Madison also realized. Over the past five years, Wesley had always treasured this wooden box, carrying it with him wherever he went. She thought there must be something valuable inside.<br /> Realizing this, Madison hurriedly followed. "Wesley, stop right there, leave the wooden box."<br /> Wesley paused, glanced at Madison, and said, "This is my personal belonging."<br /> "Nonsense, what personal belonging could you possibly have after marrying into the Reed family? Everything you've eaten, worn, and lived in over the years has been provided by the Reed family. Put it down."<br /> As she spoke, Madison reached out to grab the wooden box.<br /> "Ah..." A scream rang out as Madison quickly retracted her hand, a gash appearing on her palm, a crimson liquid dripping.<br /> The wooden box was now stained with the same crimson liquid, trembling lightly in Wesley's hand.<br /> "It's not the right time yet, the day you thirst for this crimson liquid will come," Wesley murmured softly, patting the box before turning to continue his stride towards the exit.<br /> "Monster! A monster!" Madison screamed, causing Taylor and the others to rush out. Seeing the wound in Madison's hand, Taylor was filled with rage.<br /> "Wesley, aren't you going to say something?" Wesley halted once more, contemplating before meeting Taylor's gaze.<br /> "Just stay out of my way from now on. Consider this a warning to you."<br /> "Taylor, that wooden box of his has a mechanism. It must hold something valuable! We can't let him take it with him," Madison, enduring the pain, reminded them.<br /> "Mom, your injury is important. We'll deal with him later. Let me take you to the hospital first." Taylor comforted Madison before calling out to the retreating Wesley.<br /> "Our marriage is over! Yet, you dared to hurt my mother! This won't be the end of it! I will make you regret it!" Ignoring her, Wesley continued walking out.<br /> "Rest assured, I promise he won't see the light of day tomorrow." Henry stepped forward to console. "Let's focus on getting your wound treated first."<br /> "I want him to regret ever existing in this world, to apologize to me in repentance," Madison roared.<br /> "Mom, trust me, I will make him do just that." Taylor looked at Madison with a mix of pity and determination. "Let's go to the hospital first."<br /> In the villa area, Wesley halted, his voice cold. "Get out."<br /> An elderly gent leaped down from a tree, appearing to be in his seventies, yet landing silently from a height of around ten feet.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, your father wants you to come home and take charge."<br /> "He stopped being my father five years ago. He's my enemy."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you misunderstood your father. He had his reasons back then. I swear in my life, once you know the truth, you will forgive him."<br /> "Huh!" Wesley smirked coldly, saying, "I nearly passed away back then. Is that also a misunderstanding?"<br /> The old gent pleaded, "Mr. Harrington, this situation is truly not as you perceive it."<br /> Wesley didn't engage further with the old guy. The events of that year were etched in his memory forever. He was the one who had been abandoned. If not for that incident, why would he have stayed with the Reed family for five years?<br /> Watching Wesley walk away, the old gent had tears silently streaming down his face. "Mr. Harrington, I truly... I truly can't bring myself to speak the truth, but you have misunderstood your father. He also bears burdens and endures pains beyond what an ordinary person can handle."<br /> As Wesley's figure disappeared, the old gent stood up, hesitated for a moment, then dialed a number on his phone.<br /> "Mr. Harrington is now divorced. I've given you the news firsthand. If your daughter is truly together with Mr. Harrington, you must fulfill the promise and let her persuade Mr. Harrington to come home."<br /> After hanging up, a middle-aged gent in a luxurious estate jumped up excitedly. Calming himself, he immediately made another call. "My dear, you're at Yeadeo, right?<br /> "Go find Wesley now. Don't mention the engagement for now. Use every means to get close to him, make him fall in love with you."<br /> "Dad, I don't have time."<br /> "No matter what you are busy with, you must go find Wesley now. No matter what reason you approach him, you must leave a good impression the first time."<br /> "Dad, I'm in trouble right now. If I don't handle it well, I might be good as gone. I have to deal with it immediately. I'm hanging up."<br /> Chapter 3 <br /> The middle-aged gent's voice lowered significantly. "Is there a big incident happening? You didn't tell me? What happened?"<br /> "Quinn Kingsley from Yeadeo, Mr. Kingsley, used our product and now has one foot on the grave. If something really happens to him..."<br /> "You mean Quinn, the uncontested leader of Yeadeo?"<br /> "Yes."<br /> "In that case, you should go find Wesley. Trust me, in this world, there is no problem that Wesley can't solve. As long as he's willing to help, you'll be fine. Listen to me, go find Wesley immediately."<br /> The lady fell silent for a moment before saying, "Okay."<br /> At Yeadeo Harbor, a gent with a large flaxen chain and a watch, sporting a crew cut, hurriedly disembarked, accompanied by a dozen gentlemen.<br /> "Mr. Reed, wherever that trash is, we will find him and tear him apart."<br /> "Yes, that guy dared to harm your mother. We'll make sure he pays for it."<br /> Frank Reed's face turned cold. "Wesley, you coward, thinking you can overturn the world? How dare you touch my mom? Just wait until I find you, you're finished."<br /> "We've found him. Wesley got into a taxi, and our boys followed him."<br /> "Let's go!" Frank waved his hand, leading dozens of men who boarded the car with harpoons, steel pipes, and other weapons.<br /> Inside the taxi, Wesley gazed at the scenery outside, feeling a strange sense of tranquility.<br /> He thought to himself, "I never imagined that while I was secretly paving the way for the Reed family, Taylor, after progressing so rapidly, would start looking down on me more and more."<br /> "Those ladies who know my true identity, which one of them isn't trying to throw themselves at me? Ladies like that don't interest me."<br /> "Being an ordinary gent is truly difficult," Wesley murmured, smiling faintly and deciding not to dwell on these matters anymore. He had important things to attend to and no time to waste on personal affairs.<br /> "Young lad, are you going to Feidgeuo Manor for a job interview?" The driver, curious about Wesley's destination, inquired.<br /> Feidgeuo Manor was Yeadeo's most mysterious private area. Originally a villa area, it was bought at a huge cost five years ago and completely renovated. It was said to have cost a trillion dollars. The former villa area was now Feidgeuo Manor.<br /> "That's my home," Wesley replied nonchalantly.<br /> The driver was taken aback by this revelation, silently cursing Wesley for bragging. After a couple of minutes, the driver regained his composure. "It seems like you and I both prefer to keep a low profile. My car usually gathers dust at home, so I occasionally drive a taxi to experience life."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "My car has been driven by my assistant for the past few years, so it's not gathering dust."<br /> "Haha..." The driver laughed. "We should get together sometime and see whose car is more impressive."<br /> "Sure, whenever we have the time."<br /> As they chatted, the vehicle soon arrived near Feidgeuo Manor, where the massive head of the Feidgeuo Peak protruded, creating a unique landscape in Yeadeo.<br /> The driver asked with a smile, "Since you're the owner here, it's fine if I drive in, right?"<br /> "Of course," Wesley replied.<br /> As soon as Wesley spoke, several cars caught up from behind.<br /> The cars surrounded the one Wesley was in, with the front vehicles braking to force the car to a stop.<br /> When numerous people descended from cars wielding harpoons and steel pipes, the driver's face paled.<br /> Frank and his group got out of the cars, instantly closing in, and without hesitation, started attacking, the steel pipes and harpoons thudding against the car.<br /> Frank's henchman yanked open the door of Wesley's car, poised to stab Wesley with a harpoon, but Wesley swiftly exited the vehicle.<br /> With a firm step on the ground, he launched a swift hit.<br /> A muffled sound echoed as the henchman was hit away.<br /> "What are you looking at?" Frank noticed his henchmen were all staring at him. "All of you, attack together and take him down!"<br /> As he commanded, the henchmen Frank brought with him surged forward.<br /> The taxi driver, trembling, took out his phone to call the police, but Frank glared at him. "I am Frank Reed from Yeadeo Harbor. If you dare, go ahead and make that call."<br /> Frank, leveraging his sister Taylor's status, had been causing trouble in Yeadeo Harbor, and no one dared to provoke him.<br /> Upon hearing Frank's name, the driver hastily put away his phone. "Mr. Reed, I'll just check the time, you guys continue."<br /> "Huh!" Frank snorted coldly, casting his gaze towards the surrounded Wesley.<br /> The sounds of thuds continued to ring out incessantly. Because Wesley was completely surrounded, Frank was unable to see the situation inside clearly, but he could imagine it. After all, in Frank's mind, the henchmen under his command were not to be trifled with.<br /> "Hit him hard for me!"<br /> Another muffled sound and a figure flew out. At that moment, Frank finally saw the situation clearly, and his face turned pale.<br /> Frank knew that Wesley liked to practice martial arts, but he had never expected Wesley to be this skilled. It wasn't Wesley who had been beaten, but his own men by Wesley alone.<br /> Frantically, Frank turned and ran to retrieve a crossbow from the car.<br /> "Clear the way." Frank bellowed, aiming the crossbow at Wesley.<br /> "You scumbag, you think you can fight? Move one more time, and I'll end your life! Surrender!"<br /> Wesley, holding a wooden box, stared at Frank. Ignoring the crossbow in his hand, Wesley said, "Tell your henchmen to back off, or you'll all see the light from above!"<br /> "You're really good at pretending to be tough." Frank took two steps forward. "See the light? Move a muscle and see if I can end your life or not! If you don't have the guts, apologize now!"<br /> Wesley turned his head and looked at the approaching cars, with two expensive ones in the lead, two more in the rear, and another one in the middle.<br /> "Keep acting tough, and I'll put a hole in your head." Frank spoke while glancing at the five cars. "What, looking for help?"<br /> "Let me tell you, those who ride in these cars are not the kind of weaklings like you who rely on connections. With me here, in Yeadeo's social hierarchy, even those who ride in such cars wouldn't dare meddle in this matter. And let me make it clear, without my sister, you're nothing."<br /> <br /> Chapter 4<br /> As Frank's words faded, the five cars came to a halt.<br /> A bodyguard opened the door of the one in the middle, revealing a dazzling pair of shining shoes catching everyone's eye.<br /> The shining shoe encased a beautiful foot. Above, the skirt's hem was adorned with lace.<br /> Then, like a fairy stepping out of a painting, she appeared before everyone's eyes.<br /> The lady was beautiful!<br /> Frank was mesmerized. Ever since the Reed family rose to prominence, he had been surrounded by ladies, but compared to the elegant lady before him, they were worlds apart.<br /> It wasn't just a difference in appearance but an incomparable gap in demeanor.<br /> The lady descending from the Maybach seemed like a celestial being untouched by mortal affairs.<br /> The embodiment of a fairy in the mundane world.<br /> She simply stood there after getting out of the car, perfectly embodying what it meant to be graceful and elegant.<br /> The lady glanced at Wesley, then at Frank.<br /> Frank grinned, saying, "May I have the honor of knowing the name of this esteemed lady? I am Frank..."<br /> The lady spoke calmly. "Disrespect Mr. Harrington, and you're done for."<br /> Her bodyguards, unfazed by Frank's crossbow, swiftly overwhelmed him, sending him crashing to the ground.<br /> The henchmen who had come with Frank, previously defeated by Wesley, now scrambled to their feet and fled in all directions.<br /> Who would dare provoke someone who could afford such a car?<br /> "My sister is Taylor Reed, the chairperson of Reed Group," Frank shouted, clutching his head.<br /> Ignoring him, one of the bodyguards dragged him to the roadside grass while another used a belt to tighten around Frank's neck, exerting pressure.<br /> "Enough, a lesson is all that's needed." Wesley spoke calmly, and only when the lady gestured did the bodyguards release Frank.<br /> Frank lay there, already unconscious.<br /> Wesley turned to the lady. "Who are you?"<br /> "I am Mia Roberts, the general manager of Vinver Business Alliance's Yeadeo branch." She looked at Wesley and continued, "Mr. Harrington, my father mentioned that you have miraculous healing skills and earnestly requested your assistance. A generous reward awaits."<br /> Wesley furrowed his brow slightly, thinking, "There are indeed people who recognize my abilities and status, yet I've rarely intervened in the past five years. Today, shortly after I divorced Taylor, she is here. Whose arrangement is this?"<br /> "Mr. Harrington, my father also mentioned that you are benevolent and has raised the banner of compassion among healers, serving as a role model and benchmark for all in the medical field."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "You have a way with words. Tell me the specifics."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, please get in the car first. I will explain in detail on the way."<br /> The phrase "compassionate healer" held significant weight for Wesley, who had saved countless lives from the brink of death.<br /> Without further ado, he got into the car.<br /> Inside, after Mia brewed coffee for Wesley, she began. "Vinver Business Alliance has a wide range of business operations, and I mainly oversee the health supplement sector, which has seen some success in recent years.<br /> "Recently, Quinn Kingsley started using our medicines, and now there's an accident."<br /> As she spoke, Mia kept her gaze fixed on Wesley.<br /> Quinn, the undisputed leader of Yeadeo, was a figure of immense influence.<br /> Upon hearing this name, Wesley showed no particular reaction. "If the city's leader faces issues with your products, it is indeed a concern. Let's go and see."<br /> With just a sentence, Wesley leaned back in his seat, closing his eyes to rest.<br /> Mia was secretly alarmed, thinking, "He knows who Quinn is, yet he seems indifferent. Who is this Wesley, really? No wonder Dad has instructed me to find a way to win his favor." Mia's inner resistance toward Wesley quietly shifted.<br /> Wesley had piqued her curiosity.<br /> As the vehicle was moving, Wesley's phone rang.<br /> Wesley opened his eyes and took out his phone to see Taylor calling.<br /> Pressing the answer button, he asked, "What's the matter?"<br /> On the other end of the line, Taylor, driving towards Feidgeuo Manor, had a grim expression.<br /> She thought, "Has Wesley ever spoken to me in such a cold tone before? Is he really this heartless right after our divorce?"<br /> Already furious, she snapped. "Wesley, do you even consider yourself a human being?<br /> "Today, not only did you lay hands on my mother, but you also had someone attack my brother. Do you not remember our past at all?"<br /> Wesley calmly replied, "Do we have a past to remember?"<br /> "You truly are a heartless scumbag, just as my mother said. You are an ungrateful and vicious person I raised for five years. Even a pet would wag its tail at me!"<br /> Taylor wanted to continue her tirade, but the phone line had already turned busy.<br /> This only fueled her anger further.<br /> Just now, she had received a call from Frank's underlings, informing her that Wesley had sent people to attack Frank and even intended to end him.<br /> Taylor wanted to demand answers, but...<br /> As Taylor was clutching her fists, her gaze turned icy.<br /> After a moment, she picked up her phone again. "Wesley, you are so narrow-minded. You have no ambition. Any lady would steer clear of you."<br /> "Just because I dumped you, you are doing this on purpose to make me feel sick. Pretending to be aloof and seeking revenge? Do you even deserve it?"<br /> "In Yeadeo, squashing you would be as easy as squashing an ant. You're asking for it! If anything happens to my brother, I will make you wish you were ending!"<br /> Her furious voice message echoed in the car.<br /> Wesley chuckled and put away his phone.<br /> Beside him, Mia seemed contemplative. Before coming, she had already ordered a swift investigation into Wesley.<br /> She was curious, thinking, "How could someone valued by my father could be the one 'marrying into' the Reed family."<br /> Being tactful, Mia chose not to ask and pretended not to have heard.<br /> After about forty minutes, they arrived at the Kingsley Manor.<br /> The Kingsley family members, upon seeing Mia alight from the car, all wore grim expressions.<br /> Mia greeted them with a smile, "Everyone, this is Wesley Harrington, Mr. Harrington, the miraculous healer I specially invited to treat Mr. Kingsley."<br /> "Him? The gent who married into the Reed family?"<br /> "A miraculous healer? Is he even worthy? Are healers so worthless now?"<br /> "A useless gent who mooches off of the Reed family? How dare he call himself a miraculous healer? Truly a joke among all jokes."<br /> Chapter 5<br /> <br /> Amanda Kingsley, Quinn's granddaughter, stared coldly at Wesley and Mia.<br /> This lady, dressed in a smart suit, also held significant fame in Yeadeo, overseeing the region's business activities, including investment attraction and various local business negotiations.<br /> Amanda had a favorable view of Taylor, who had risen swiftly in recent times, and they had interacted frequently.<br /> She was aware of Wesley's existence and had advised Taylor to part ways with him early on.<br /> But Amanda never imagined that Mia would bring someone like Wesley, a complete waste, and claim he was a miraculous healer.<br /> Glaring at Mia, she said, "Mia, once my grandfather is well, it's best for your Roberts family to leave Yeadeo."<br /> "As for you..." She glanced at Wesley. "I will advise Taylor to divorce you. You have deceived Taylor's feelings and now shamelessly made your way into my family. You are a despicable creature."<br /> After reprimanding Mia and Wesley, she turned to an elderly gent beside her, and her tone and attitude completely changed. "Mr. Phillips, sorry to trouble you. My grandfather is inside, please."<br /> Mia looked at the elderly gent, who was already in his twilight years, feeling deeply shocked.<br /> Scott Phillips, the 38th generation heir of the Healing Clinic, was now ninety-two years old.<br /> Renowned as a miraculous healer, he was a respected figure in the medical community of Yeadeo and even nationally.<br /> He no longer conducted consultations personally due to his old age. Mia had visited him specifically to pay her respects once she had arrived in Yeadeo but had not met Scott.<br /> She never expected Scott to appear in person. It was understandable, as Quinn held a prominent position in the city. Despite the profound influence of the Phillips family, they still had to show respect to Quinn.<br /> Mia looked at Wesley, feeling conflicted and thinking, "Dad has confidently claimed that Wesley has extraordinary abilities, but does he really?"<br /> She harbored doubts, but out of propriety, Mia spoke. "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the trouble."<br /> Wesley smiled, "It's fine. As long as the person can be healed."<br /> His open-mindedness impressed Mia.<br /> After about half an hour, Amanda emerged from the room. All eyes instantly turned towards her.<br /> It was evident that Amanda had wailed out, with traces of tears still visible.<br /> "Amanda, how is it?" A middle-aged gent anxiously asked her.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family who had rushed back also focused their attention on her.<br /> "Mr. Phillips said that there's little hope of recovery. He could only use acupuncture to wake grandfather for half an hour. When grandfather wakes up, let's all go in and see if he has any final instructions."<br /> Everyone was shocked.<br /> "How could this be?"<br /> "Is Mr. Phillips also helpless?"<br /> The members of the Kingsley family found it hard to accept this reality, especially since Quinn had always treated his juniors well.<br /> The thought of Quinn departing saddened some, and tears silently fell.<br /> Publicly, Quinn's status was the foundation of the Kingsley family's prominence in Yeadeo.<br /> If Quinn were to pass away, the Kingsley family would undoubtedly decline.<br /> The atmosphere within the Kingsley family was somber.<br /> Amanda looked at her family members, opened her mouth, but said nothing, silently turning back into the room.<br /> "Stop crying," A middle-aged gent said sternly, "Dad wouldn't want to see you all in tears. If he's really leaving, we mustn't let him worry about us. Pull yourselves together."<br /> After these words, the middle-aged gent also entered the room.<br /> The younger members of the Kingsley family wiped their tears vigorously, trying to force smiles, but in truth, they looked better at crying than pretending to be happy.<br /> Mia's spirit plummeted as she realized the gravity of the situation. Even if an ordinary person passed away from consuming health supplements, it spelled big trouble for those who sold them. And when the deceased happened to be Quinn, the stakes were even higher.<br /> She understood that it would be difficult for this branch to stay in Yeadeo, and even the headquarters might face repercussions.<br /> "Let's go in and have a look." Wesley glanced at Mia. "There might still be a chance."<br /> "Ah..." Mia stared at Wesley in surprise. Seeing him already heading towards the room, she quickly followed suit.<br /> Inside the room, the members of the Kingsley family stood around the mattress, maintaining a certain distance.<br /> Scott lit the alcohol lamp and took out the needles, his expression solemn.<br /> He looked at the members of the Kingsley family. "Think about what you want to say to Mr. Kingsley later. Once you're ready, let me know, and then I'll proceed with the acupuncture."<br /> As he said this, tears welled up in many eyes.<br /> "If you don't mind, let me take a look. I have a way." Wesley spoke up, drawing everyone's attention.<br /> Amanda's face darkened. "Who let you in? Get out!"<br /> "Mia, have you lost your mind? Tricked by this trash and actually brought him here as a miracle healer. Get out with him! I'll settle the score with you in a couple of days."<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, at a loss for words.<br /> "Even Mr. Phillips is unable to reverse the situation. What use are you? Get out." Another younger member of the Kingsley family angrily rebuked.<br /> The middle-aged gent added, "We're in no mood right now. You better leave immediately."<br /> "I understand your narrow-mindedness," Wesley continued, "But as a healer, once I see a patient, I cannot stand by and watch him draw his last breath."<br /> "Wesley, you're quite the charlatan. Do you really want to be gone right now?" Amanda's voice was filled with anger.<br /> "Amanda, let me say a few words," Scott interjected, and Amanda fell silent.<br /> Looking at Wesley, Scott began. "Young lad, at my age, I've seen a lot and have a broad perspective. Today, however, I find it hard to remain indifferent. I practiced medicine from the age of sixteen until I stopped seeing patients for a total of seventy years."<br /> "I've saved countless patients from various illnesses. I never easily declare a patient's fate, nor do I believe I have the right to do so."<br /> "But from your recent remarks, it seems like you're accusing me of such actions. Young people wanting to make a name for themselves by stepping on the shoulders of their predecessors, I can understand."<br /> "But this kind of behavior displeases me."<br /> "My displeasure, what does it mean to you? Do you understand?"<br /> "Even if you are a healer, your career will be ruined because of this."<br /> Chapter 6 <br /> In the face of Scott's veiled threats, Wesley simply smiled and brushed them off.<br /> Looking at Scott, he asked, "I've always focused on the issue at hand rather than attacking individuals. I have a few questions for you. If you can't administer the needles, how long do you think Quinn can hold on?"<br /> "Seven days, but he will remain unconscious," Scott replied bluntly.<br /> "Then let me ask you this, is there anyone in the world with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "Outrageous," Amanda coldly interjected, "Mr. Phillips is unparalleled in his medical expertise."<br /> Scott glanced at Amanda. "Amanda, let me handle this question."<br /> Continuing to address Wesley, he said, "I don't underestimate myself, nor do I overestimate. There are countless talented individuals in the world, like stars in the sky. I may not dare claim to be the best in medical skills, but those who surpass me are few."<br /> "That means there are some," Wesley calmly remarked, causing Scott's expression to shift slightly, "Indeed, there are."<br /> "Then let me ask you this. Do you think within seven days, the Kingsley family won't find someone with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "If they do find someone, do you believe there is an illness that you cannot cure, but this person can?"<br /> Wesley's questions were sharp and resounding.<br /> Scott's face changed once more as he was rendered speechless.<br /> "Even if there is, that person will never be you." Amanda's face turned icy. "Now get out. Don't spout your eloquence here. Your deceitful behavior is repulsive."<br /> "Your understanding of me is merely hearsay, isn't it?" Wesley retorted, his gaze mocking Amanda, "Has your background and education taught you such arrogance and prejudice?"<br /> "Arrogance?" Amanda's face grew colder as she disdainfully looked at Wesley. "Prejudice?<br /> "Did I say something wrong just now? You are nothing but stagnant waste, a parasite living off others. If it weren't for Taylor, you would have starved on the streets long ago."<br /> "Relying on sweet words, deceiving Taylor. She, with her kind heart, can't bear to divorce you, but don't push your luck. If it weren't for Taylor's sake, you would have been sent out long ago."<br /> Scott interrupted Amanda, "Amanda, although I find this lad a bit annoying, what he said does hold some truth. There are indeed individuals with better medical skills than me. Your grandfather can hold on for seven days. Try reaching out to see if someone can come over. I'll help you make connections."<br /> "If it really doesn't work out after seven days, I'll administer the needles to your grandfather. However, at that point, I can only buy you three minutes."<br /> As soon as Scott spoke, the faces of the Kingsley family members grew even more solemn. True healers were rare and not easily summoned.<br /> While the Kingsley family had connections in Yeadeo, their influence waned outside of it.<br /> "Mr. Phillips, please administer the needles. Life has its ups and downs, and we understand that. Just buy my father a bit more time." The middle-aged gent spoke up.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family nodded in agreement.<br /> Amanda looked at Scott. "Mr. Phillips, please."<br /> "In that case, please have everyone unrelated leave. I need silence," Scott calmly stated.<br /> Amanda glared at Wesley, her eyes speaking volumes without a word.<br /> The unrelated individuals were, naturally, Wesley and Mia.<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, intending to leave, but she suddenly hesitated.<br /> Instead of leaving, Wesley moved forward.<br /> "What are you doing?" A young member of the Kingsley family stepped forward with a stern expression, pushing Wesley.<br /> In one swift motion, Wesley executed a clean shoulder throw, toppling the young gent to the ground, his own expression turning cold.<br /> "A bunch of fools! If it weren't for my teacher's teachings about not turning a blind eye to those in need, I wouldn't bother with you ignorant lot," Wesley remarked with disdain.<br /> As Wesley effortlessly took down one individual from the Kingsley family, the others seemed slow to react.<br /> By the time they realized what was happening, Wesley had already picked up the needle next to Scott and casually flicked his wrist.<br /> The needle flew out of his hand, piercing Quinn's temple, followed by a second needle, a third needle, and so on.<br /> "What are you doing? Stop!" Amanda's voice rose in urgency, echoed by the rest of the Kingsley family members who rushed forward to restrain Wesley.<br /> "Stay back, everyone. Wait." Scott suddenly stood up, blocking the others. "Let him try."<br /> Amanda and the others were left dumbfounded, thinking, "What does this mean?"<br /> Despite their confusion, they heeded Scott's words.<br /> After Scott stopped the members of the Kingsley family, he fixed his gaze on Wesley.<br /> Wesley proceeded to use eighteen needles in succession, symbolizing the levels of pain.<br /> Even if someone had descended into the depths of hell, they must be brought back.<br /> The final needle, also piercing a vital point, caused Quinn's body to tremble suddenly, resonating with the previous eighteen needles.<br /> Scott's eyes widened, his body trembling slightly. His reaction left Amanda and the others even more puzzled, but none dared to interrupt.<br /> Moments later, Wesley placed a palm on Quinn's chest, causing all eighteen needles to be shaken off. When all the needles landed on the ground, the part of the skin where the needles had pierced turned dark.<br /> Wesley then dragged Quinn to the edge of the mattress, flipped him over with his head facing downwards, and gave him a firm pat on the back.<br /> Quinn spat out a mouthful of black liquid. When Wesley flipped him back to lie flat, his complexion had regained some color.<br /> "The Hand of Darkness... It's the Hand of Darkness!" Scott exclaimed with excitement, his body quivering, "It's the Hand that descends into the dark world, snatching people from the hands of the Evil!"<br /> "You do have some knowledge, recognizing the Hand of Darkness." Wesley glanced at Scott.<br /> Scott's gaze towards Wesley had undergone a drastic change. He respectfully clasped his hands together.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thirty years ago, I had the honor of attending a teaching conference held by Mr. Vanderbilt. I saw the Hand of Darkness, but my limited aptitude only allowed me to grasp the basics."<br /> "I have been blind and ignorant. I apologize for my earlier offenses. Please forgive me, Mr. Harrington."<br /> The Mr. Vanderbilt Scott referred to was Wesley's teacher, Ulysses Vanderbilt. He generously imparted his skills to others, but the ability to learn depended on one's innate talent.<br /> In this world, few could learn Ulysses' skills.<br /> Scott had been fortunate to receive guidance from Ulysses, which had elevated his medical skills. However, the Hand of Darkness, a miraculous ability, was beyond his comprehension.<br /> Wesley smiled faintly, "Your actions earlier are understandable. I appreciate your words."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you must be an exceptional disciple of Mr. Vanderbilt, possessing unparalleled magnanimity. Impressive," Scott continued.<br /> "Enough with the flattery at your age."<br /> "You are mistaken, Mr. Harrington. Every word I speak is sincere."<br /> Mia, Amanda, and the others stood bewildered by the unfolding situation.<br /> "Mr. Phillips... he... he..." Amanda's words faltered.<br /> Scott turned to the members of the Kingsley family. "Meeting Mr. Harrington was Quinn's luck. His symptoms have been cured by Mr. Harrington. With a few days of rest, he will be fine."<br /> The waste Taylor had previously said was called Mr. Harrington by Scott!<br /> Recalling their previous attitudes, Amanda hurriedly apologized, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> The members of the Kingsley family all apologized in unison, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> Chapter 7 <br /> With a faint smile, Wesley remarked, "As family members of a patient, your actions earlier are understandable. There's no need for such formality."<br /> Amanda's perplexity deepened as she thought, "Where is the cowardly waste that Taylor described? This display of magnanimity and breadth is far from it."<br /> Mia, too, felt a shiver of realization, thinking, "No wonder Dad has insisted on my proximity to Wesley.<br /> This guy..."<br /> She gazed at Wesley, her curiosity piqued, a sense of exploration stirring within her.<br /> "Mia has brought you here, Mr. Harrington, to cure my grandfather. The Kingsley family will never forget this act. However, considering that my grandfather's ailment stemmed from the health supplements produced by the Vinver Business Alliance, we will be conducting an investigation into it."<br /> Amanda continued, looking at Wesley, "What do you think... of this approach?"<br /> It was Mia who had invited Wesley, so Amanda had grown wiser, refraining from asking for a direct punishment of the Vinver Business Alliance.<br /> As Mia heard Amanda's words, her heart skipped a beat, realizing trouble was brewing.<br /> "On the way here, Ms. Roberts briefed me on the situation. You conducted experiments on mice, correct?"<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes, the health supplements we received were exclusively provided by the Roberts family. There were no similar cases on the market, so we used mice for testing.<br /> "All the mice that ingested this supplement were gone."<br /> She looked at Mia and added, her voice turning colder, "Before the experiment, I specifically contacted Mia to inquire about the testing methods during the development phase, which involved mice.<br /> "There have been individuals eyeing my grandfather's position, some even wishing for his demise. I never imagined that the Vinver Business Alliance, which I attracted for investment, would become a weapon in someone else's hands."<br /> "Do you have any of the remaining medicine?" Wesley inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes."<br /> "Bring some over."<br /> Immediately, someone fetched the medicine. After it was brought to him, Wesley took out a supplement and swallowed it directly.<br /> This scene left Amanda and the others dumbfounded.<br /> Scott, too, was bewildered. "Mr. Harrington, what are you doing?"<br /> Wesley smiled, "Just proving that this medicine is not toxic."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thank you," Mia thanked sincerely, feeling like crying at that moment.<br /> Amanda, with a puzzled expression, looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, are you suggesting that my grandfather's condition wasn't caused by the Vinver Business Alliance's medicine? What about the mice?"<br /> The rest were equally puzzled.<br /> "Yes, but not entirely," Wesley said, leaving everyone even more bewildered.<br /> Mia's emotions were like a rollercoaster ride, from relief to immediate tension.<br /> "This medicine itself is not toxic, but when taken with another substance made from a certain plant, it results in Quinn's condition. The mice would die immediately, while humans could endure a few more days."<br /> Wesley continued to explain, "The plant used in this concoction is originally meant for crafting slow-acting toxins, not for human consumption."<br /> Looking at Amanda, Wesley said, "During this period, whoever had access to your grandfather and the mice will better understand why these events occurred."<br /> The gaze of members of the Kingsley family immediately focused on a lady.<br /> Amanda, somewhat incredulous, looked at her. "Can you offer an explanation?"<br /> The lady was the wife of Amanda's deceased brother. She found it hard to accept, as did the rest of the Kingsley family.<br /> This lady had been named the exemplary lady who served her family well this year, not due to her connection with the Kingsley family but because she genuinely deserved it.<br /> "What do you mean? Amanda, what explanation do you want from me?"<br /> The lady stared at Amanda. "Am I the only one who had access to Grandfather and the mice? You, and you... and you, who didn't have access?"<br /> "You all claim to treat me as family. Since I married into the Kingsley family, I have worked diligently, contributing my share even if not acknowledged."<br /> "Amanda, it has been over a year since your brother passed, and I never once considered remarrying. Now, just because of his words, you demand an explanation from me?"<br /> Pointing at Wesley, the lady questioned, "Just because he accuses me of poisoning, you suspect me? Tell me, did I poison him?" The lady glared at Wesley.<br /> "I am merely analyzing the facts. As for concluding this case, it's not within my purview," Wesley addressed the members of the Kingsley family, saying, "You should conduct a thorough investigation into this matter.<br /> "I will write a prescription. Have Quinn take it on time, and he will recover in seven days."<br /> Amanda hurried to fetch paper and pen while Wesley prepared the prescription. Once done, he was ready to leave.<br /> Amanda said hurriedly, "Mr. Harrington, I've already made arrangements for lunch."<br /> "No need," Wesley smiled.<br /> The Kingsley family sought to build closer ties with Wesley, given his extraordinary medical skills. Wesley was well aware of this.<br /> Looking at Amanda and the others, Wesley remarked, "In the future, if you encounter any difficult medical cases that others cannot solve, seek me out. Remember, cases others cannot solve."<br /> The gaze of the Kingsley family members toward Wesley changed once again. Many renowned healers had eccentric personalities and were difficult to engage.<br /> They hadn't expected Wesley to possess such remarkable medical skills without any airs.<br /> As Wesley prepared to depart, the members of the Kingsley family did not dare to insist on his stay, so they accompanied him outside.<br /> "Oh, how could we forget such an important matter? Amanda, what about the consultation fee?" The middle-aged gent inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the oversight. Please wait a moment." Amanda hurried back inside and soon returned with a bank card in hand.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, there's one million dollars in here."<br /> Without hesitation, Wesley accepted the bank card and boarded Mia's car.<br /> During the journey, Mia boldly looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, you've helped me immensely. Can I treat you to a meal? Don't decline in a hurry. It's not a fancy restaurant, but it will leave you wanting more. It's a small place on the street, with only eight plates of noodles served each day, each plate containing different ingredients.<br /> "I managed to secure a reservation. Are you interested?"<br /> Wesley thought, "Eight Plates of Noodles? Ah, Aaron's restaurant. It has been a while since I visited those old friends."<br /> Wesley nodded. "Let's go then."<br /> The restaurant, Eight Plates of Noodles, was located on Chanxold Street near the Yeadeo First Central Hospital.<br /> The establishment was small, serving only eight plates of noodles each day at a price of 10 thousand dollars each. Vernoic's television culinary program had specifically covered this incident.<br /> Reservations were a must to secure a plate.<br /> The restaurant's owner had a mysterious background. While the specifics were unknown, a high-ranking noble from the capital of Vernoic, Kingsland, had caused a scene there once.<br /> He had attempted to force his way in without a reservation. Although this incident hadn't been reported, rumors suggested that a garbage truck had to be called to dispose of the intruder's remains, as he was too shattered to be removed by conventional means.<br /> Since then, no one dared to cause trouble.<br /> On their way, Mia introduced Wesley to the background story.<br /> "Mr. Turner, two plates of noodles." Mia called out once they arrived.<br /> Aaron Turner didn't respond but visibly paused upon seeing Wesley beside Mia.<br /> A faint smile appeared on his usually stoic face. Though the flesh on the face seemed stiff, it was indeed a smile. "Coming right up."<br /> Mia glanced at Aaron with a hint of surprise, thinking, "When did he become so warm and enthusiastic? His tone seemed a bit agitated earlier, didn't it?"<br /> Soon enough, Aaron brought two plates of noodles to the table. One steaming hot and the other devoid of any warmth.<br /> As Mia observed Aaron placing the plate without steam in front of Wesley, her expression changed slightly.<br /> It was a plate of instant noodles having soaked in cold water, with the seasoning barely dissolved.<br /> She felt a sense of panic. Mia had wanted to leave a good impression on Wesley, which was why she had chosen this place.<br /> However, Aaron had served such a plate of noodles.<br /> She dared not question Aaron. The type of noodles served here was not determined by the guests but by Aaron's mood.<br /> "This girl named Mia is quite something, living up to her name, and quite kind-hearted," Aaron remarked, looking at Wesley.<br /> "Get lost," Wesley retorted, using his fork to pick up the noodles and devouring them.<br /> Mia's face turned pale instantly. Disrespecting Aaron was akin to risking Wesley's life.<br /> To her astonishment, Aaron chuckled, tears welling up in his eyes.<br /> He wiped them away. "Alright, I'll leave you to your meal."<br /> Before departing, he gave Mia a thumbs-up. "Seize the opportunity."<br /> The eight plates of noodles symbolized the eight comrades who had faced life and life-threatening situations together.<br /> Wesley ate voraciously. Initially, they had only one pack of instant noodles to share among the eight of them, forcing them to divide it.<br /> Despite the circumstances, they devoured the noodles joyfully.<br /> Aaron had promised that once they survived, each one would have the most delicious plate of noodles.<br /> However, five of the eight had perished.<br /> Wesley had come dangerously close to life-threatening situations, but managed to cling to life.<br /> For him, the plate of noodles was not food but the bond of friendship that had shielded him from harm.<br /> "Do you... know each other?" Mia couldn't help but ask, her voice low and curious.<br /> "Some things are better left unknown," Wesley replied.<br /> Mia nodded in understanding, falling silent as they continued eating noodles. She couldn't help stealing glances at Wesley throughout the meal.<br /> This gent had piqued her curiosity even more.<br /> "Wesley, I see. No wonder you agreed to the divorce so readily. You've already found someone else outside."<br /> A sharp voice interrupted their meal.<br /> Taylor approached with a cold expression, accompanied by Henry. | Adoread Romance story | 106 | https://facebook.com/61557113391558 | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1713250800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846726 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446608 | 1735168083 | 890 | 452704720478167 | 2 | 1.5151396427717E+15 | 1713942000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 235254296344339 | 0 | Adoread Romance story | 120207848353300113 | play.google.com | Install now | NONE | video | HOT BOOK✨Tap the button to read more👉 | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.adoread.book | 1713261160 | 2.3525429634434E+14 | Adoread Romance story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437875573_752574620401462_6376715327212748395_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=djcUHv-aeX0Q7kNvgGO_Fcr&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBDDP7JppL57kCpDrIzloymILly62SCdIAMJMYt8kUfCQ&oe=6663FC71 | person_profile | 0 | Adoread Romance story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438222984_965949928438400_4789223399014932761_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_Pbrdwr-kOgQ7kNvgFMwz1k&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDswGjbuhDa1y4tkpMCgSGu1Yy50sDQgjEX3ghEMIy_pQ&oe=66640E7D | 0 | 3 | Chapter 1 <br /> "Wesley, are you trying to harm me? You useless piece of trash, can't even make a decent cup of coffee, can you?"<br /> Madison Blair lifted her coffee cup and splashed it directly onto Wesley Harrington's face.<br /> "What are you looking at, you spineless waste? Your name sounds so lofty? I might as well call you a waste."<br /> Glancing at the grotesque expression of his wife's mother, Wesley pulled out his phone to check the time.<br /> Exactly twelve o'clock. It had been five full years since he married Taylor Reed.<br /> The appointed time had come.<br /> He had fulfilled his promise, safeguarding the Reed family for five years, transforming them from a family living off fishing to one perceived as affluent by the common folk.<br /> Wiping the coffee off his face, he turned and walked away.<br /> "Where do you think you're going? Go fetch some more coffee," Madison shouted.<br /> "Madison, didn't you say this waste is obedient at home, doing whatever he's told? I don't think he's taking it lying down."<br /> Madison grew angrier. "Wesley, you stop right there. My family has fed and housed you. If you dare disobey, I'll have you thrown out!"<br /> Ignoring her, Wesley continued downstairs.<br /> "When Taylor comes back, I'll immediately have you two divorced. Do you hear me? Stay right there," Madison threatened, "I'll let you know your place today."<br /> Grabbing a golf club, Madison swiftly charged towards Wesley.<br /> Seeing Wesley heading downstairs, she swung the club viciously at his back.<br /> Without turning back, Wesley gently sidestepped.<br /> Losing her balance, Madison tumbled forward, rolling down the stairs with a series of thumps.<br /> "Ouch... it hurts, it hurts so much!"<br /> As Madison reached the ground floor, she wailed in pain and her sister immediately rushed to her.<br /> "Wesley, what have you done? How dare you hit my sister!" Madison's sister hurried down, checking on Madison's condition.<br /> Wesley remained silent, observing the scene.<br /> "Quick, call Taylor. Tell her to come back. Today, she must divorce this waste." Madison glared at Wesley. "How dare you hit me? Not only will I let Taylor divorce you, but I'll make sure you leave in disgrace."<br /> "Mum, what's wrong?" At that moment, a gent and a lady walked in.<br /> The lady was Taylor, Madison's daughter.<br /> She ran towards Madison.<br /> As Madison pointed at Wesley, tears streamed down her face. "Taylor, he hit me, he hit me! When you're not home, he changes his attitude, scolding and hitting me in the slightest displeasure. He even pushed me down the stairs just now. Alexis can testify."<br /> Madison's sister, Alexis Blair, chimed in. "Yes, Wesley, this trash not only hit your mother but also threatened to hit me too. We cannot tolerate such trash."<br /> "Taylor, I have been telling you to divorce him for years. You've been supporting him, treating him like a Lord at home, but he's an ungrateful wolf in sheep's clothing."<br /> Helping Madison up, Taylor noticed the scrapes on Madison's arms and legs, her expression turning cold.<br /> "Wesley, why did you hit my mother? You better give me an explanation."<br /> Wesley looked at Taylor, his wife.<br /> Five years had passed, and she had never shown him kindness.<br /> Taylor dressed impeccably, a paragon of a successful lady, with a face that could be deemed angelic, yet whether her heart was as angelic remained a mystery.<br /> Her figure, too, left countless men yearning.<br /> For five years, Wesley had thought he might develop feelings for this lady, but in reality, it never happened.<br /> "There are surveillance cameras in the house," Wesley stated calmly before descending the stairs into the hallway.<br /> Despite residing in a three-story villa, Wesley's living quarters were confined to the stairwell.<br /> He harbored no resentment towards this arrangement. It was merely a promise. It was just that Taylor failed to appreciate him.<br /> This home held little value that he wished to cling onto.<br /> Retrieving a wooden box from beneath his pillow, Wesley extracted two documents. Casting a fleeting glance at the modest abode he had called home for five years, Wesley smiled faintly.<br /> He thought, "Finally... I'm free."<br /> Pushing the door ajar, Wesley was met by Taylor's piercing gaze. "I've reviewed the surveillance footage. Yes, my mother intended to strike you, but even if she did, what difference would it make?"<br /> "She's a lady. How much could her blows hurt you? Why did you dodge?"<br /> "If you hadn't dodged, my mother wouldn't have tumbled down." Wesley stared at Taylor, unable to comprehend her thought process.<br /> He had no interest in engaging in these arguments. Handing over the two documents to Taylor, he remarked, "The divorce agreement. I've already signed it. Take a look. I'm leaving with nothing."<br /> "With your current influence, there's no need for you to visit the city hall. Someone will handle it for you, right?"<br /> Madison was taken aback. She swiftly snatched the divorce agreement, flipping through it hastily.<br /> The contents were indeed straightforward. Both parties willingly divorced, with Wesley relinquishing all claims and having already signed.<br /> In an instant, Madison's pain seemed to dissipate. "Taylor, sign it quickly. Sign it."<br /> Taylor was still in a daze.<br /> She pondered.<br /> "A divorce agreement? Wesley has already prepared a divorce agreement. On what grounds?"<br /> "What gives him the right to initiate a divorce? All these years, he's done nothing at home, lacking any ambition. Always practicing martial arts, what right does he have to seek a divorce?"<br /> "If anyone should initiate it, it should be me. Moreover, now that I'm back to discussing this matter with him. Could it be that word got out, and Wesley, for the sake of his pride, rushed to prepare a divorce agreement first?"<br /> "It must be so, but... No!"<br /> "Wanting to leave with nothing, is he retreating to advance? As the chairman of the Reed Group, how could I be served with a divorce?"<br /> "Hey Wesley, I never expected this from you. Have I not treated you well enough? You seek a divorce, attempting to turn your retreat into advance, aiming to embarrass me?"<br /> Taylor glared at Wesley. "I'm telling you, it's impossible."<br /> Snatching the divorce agreement, she tore it to shreds.<br /> "Taylor, what are you doing? Such a great opportunity. Why not just sign it and let him leave?" Madison grew anxious.<br /> "Mom, I do intend to divorce this trash, but the decision must come from me. I returned specifically to address this matter."<br /> With that, Taylor produced two documents. "Wesley, remember that it's me who's divorcing you. It's me who no longer wants you. Initially, out of marital obligation, I had considered offering you some compensation. Now, you don't even need to think about it. Sign the divorce agreement and leave my home."<br /> Wesley offered a faint smile as he accepted the divorce agreement.<br /> "What are you laughing at?" Taylor demanded angrily.<br /> Wesley's smile seemed to mock her, fueling her rage.<br /> Ignoring her entirely, Wesley signed the document and handed it over.<br /> "What are you laughing at? Answer me! Who do you think you are?" Taylor roared once more.<br /> Wesley glanced at her before striding towards the exit.<br /> "Stop!" The gent who had accompanied Taylor stepped forward, blocking Wesley's path. "Taylor asked you a question, and... Your previous attitude displeased me. Apologize to Taylor, or I'll have you leave in disgrace!"<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 <br /> "Yes, let him leave in disgrace. He thought he could just hit me and walk away so easily," Madison joined in the commotion, also noticing the gent blocking Wesley's path.<br /> Madison had a keen interest in luxury goods, having frequented various high-end establishments over the years as the Reed family's living conditions improved. The gent was wearing an expensive watch and dressed head to toe in high-end luxury brands.<br /> Seeing Madison's gaze, the gent spoke. "Rest assured, today Wesley must pay the price."<br /> The gent introduced himself, looking at Wesley, "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Henry Clark, the eldest son of the Clark family and the general manager of the Clark Group in the North District."<br /> "From now on, I will accompany Taylor on her journey of life, and I will not allow anyone to bully her."<br /> "My identity carries weight. You should understand that. Now, apologize to Taylor. Apologize! Did you hear me? Apologize!"<br /> Madison's eyes lit up. She hadn't expected the gent before her to hold such a high status. She continued to shout, "Did you hear that? Taylor will be with Mr. Clark from now on. Apologize now."<br /> Wesley glanced at Henry, then at Taylor. He thought, "Have they been together all along?" Wesley had wanted to ask but decided against it because there was no need. He simply gave them a glance and continued walking towards the exit.<br /> "Are you ignoring me?" Henry's face turned cold as he reached out to grab Wesley. Henry's hand froze mid-air as he received a solid hit.<br /> "Until I sign the divorce papers, Taylor and I are still wife and husband. I don't care to investigate whether you two had any intimate relationship during that time, but don't provoke me, or I won't hesitate to make you regret it." Wesley's gaze was icy, and as Henry met his eyes, he felt a twinge of fear and swallowed his words.<br /> Taylor was also stunned. She knew exactly what Wesley had been like over the past five years. There were many surveillance cameras in the house, and she would often check them.<br /> Even when Taylor wasn't home, despite how her family treated Wesley, he always obeyed without complaint, especially towards her. He had never raised his voice, no matter how they treated him.<br /> Today, not only did Wesley dodge when her mother struck, but he also initiated the divorce and now even struck Henry. <br /> Taylor was at a loss for words, thinking, "How could this cowardly gent dare? On what grounds does he dare?"<br /> This change was difficult for Taylor to accept as if she didn't truly understand this guy. The gent who used to be obedient to her, completely submissive, now revealed this side of himself. She watched Wesley walk away in a daze, feeling a strange discomfort in her heart.<br /> "Isn't he leaving with nothing?" Alexis pointed at the wooden box Wesley was holding. "What is he taking with him?"<br /> Madison also realized. Over the past five years, Wesley had always treasured this wooden box, carrying it with him wherever he went. She thought there must be something valuable inside.<br /> Realizing this, Madison hurriedly followed. "Wesley, stop right there, leave the wooden box."<br /> Wesley paused, glanced at Madison, and said, "This is my personal belonging."<br /> "Nonsense, what personal belonging could you possibly have after marrying into the Reed family? Everything you've eaten, worn, and lived in over the years has been provided by the Reed family. Put it down."<br /> As she spoke, Madison reached out to grab the wooden box.<br /> "Ah..." A scream rang out as Madison quickly retracted her hand, a gash appearing on her palm, a crimson liquid dripping.<br /> The wooden box was now stained with the same crimson liquid, trembling lightly in Wesley's hand.<br /> "It's not the right time yet, the day you thirst for this crimson liquid will come," Wesley murmured softly, patting the box before turning to continue his stride towards the exit.<br /> "Monster! A monster!" Madison screamed, causing Taylor and the others to rush out. Seeing the wound in Madison's hand, Taylor was filled with rage.<br /> "Wesley, aren't you going to say something?" Wesley halted once more, contemplating before meeting Taylor's gaze.<br /> "Just stay out of my way from now on. Consider this a warning to you."<br /> "Taylor, that wooden box of his has a mechanism. It must hold something valuable! We can't let him take it with him," Madison, enduring the pain, reminded them.<br /> "Mom, your injury is important. We'll deal with him later. Let me take you to the hospital first." Taylor comforted Madison before calling out to the retreating Wesley.<br /> "Our marriage is over! Yet, you dared to hurt my mother! This won't be the end of it! I will make you regret it!" Ignoring her, Wesley continued walking out.<br /> "Rest assured, I promise he won't see the light of day tomorrow." Henry stepped forward to console. "Let's focus on getting your wound treated first."<br /> "I want him to regret ever existing in this world, to apologize to me in repentance," Madison roared.<br /> "Mom, trust me, I will make him do just that." Taylor looked at Madison with a mix of pity and determination. "Let's go to the hospital first."<br /> In the villa area, Wesley halted, his voice cold. "Get out."<br /> An elderly gent leaped down from a tree, appearing to be in his seventies, yet landing silently from a height of around ten feet.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, your father wants you to come home and take charge."<br /> "He stopped being my father five years ago. He's my enemy."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you misunderstood your father. He had his reasons back then. I swear in my life, once you know the truth, you will forgive him."<br /> "Huh!" Wesley smirked coldly, saying, "I nearly passed away back then. Is that also a misunderstanding?"<br /> The old gent pleaded, "Mr. Harrington, this situation is truly not as you perceive it."<br /> Wesley didn't engage further with the old guy. The events of that year were etched in his memory forever. He was the one who had been abandoned. If not for that incident, why would he have stayed with the Reed family for five years?<br /> Watching Wesley walk away, the old gent had tears silently streaming down his face. "Mr. Harrington, I truly... I truly can't bring myself to speak the truth, but you have misunderstood your father. He also bears burdens and endures pains beyond what an ordinary person can handle."<br /> As Wesley's figure disappeared, the old gent stood up, hesitated for a moment, then dialed a number on his phone.<br /> "Mr. Harrington is now divorced. I've given you the news firsthand. If your daughter is truly together with Mr. Harrington, you must fulfill the promise and let her persuade Mr. Harrington to come home."<br /> After hanging up, a middle-aged gent in a luxurious estate jumped up excitedly. Calming himself, he immediately made another call. "My dear, you're at Yeadeo, right?<br /> "Go find Wesley now. Don't mention the engagement for now. Use every means to get close to him, make him fall in love with you."<br /> "Dad, I don't have time."<br /> "No matter what you are busy with, you must go find Wesley now. No matter what reason you approach him, you must leave a good impression the first time."<br /> "Dad, I'm in trouble right now. If I don't handle it well, I might be good as gone. I have to deal with it immediately. I'm hanging up."<br /> Chapter 3 <br /> The middle-aged gent's voice lowered significantly. "Is there a big incident happening? You didn't tell me? What happened?"<br /> "Quinn Kingsley from Yeadeo, Mr. Kingsley, used our product and now has one foot on the grave. If something really happens to him..."<br /> "You mean Quinn, the uncontested leader of Yeadeo?"<br /> "Yes."<br /> "In that case, you should go find Wesley. Trust me, in this world, there is no problem that Wesley can't solve. As long as he's willing to help, you'll be fine. Listen to me, go find Wesley immediately."<br /> The lady fell silent for a moment before saying, "Okay."<br /> At Yeadeo Harbor, a gent with a large flaxen chain and a watch, sporting a crew cut, hurriedly disembarked, accompanied by a dozen gentlemen.<br /> "Mr. Reed, wherever that trash is, we will find him and tear him apart."<br /> "Yes, that guy dared to harm your mother. We'll make sure he pays for it."<br /> Frank Reed's face turned cold. "Wesley, you coward, thinking you can overturn the world? How dare you touch my mom? Just wait until I find you, you're finished."<br /> "We've found him. Wesley got into a taxi, and our boys followed him."<br /> "Let's go!" Frank waved his hand, leading dozens of men who boarded the car with harpoons, steel pipes, and other weapons.<br /> Inside the taxi, Wesley gazed at the scenery outside, feeling a strange sense of tranquility.<br /> He thought to himself, "I never imagined that while I was secretly paving the way for the Reed family, Taylor, after progressing so rapidly, would start looking down on me more and more."<br /> "Those ladies who know my true identity, which one of them isn't trying to throw themselves at me? Ladies like that don't interest me."<br /> "Being an ordinary gent is truly difficult," Wesley murmured, smiling faintly and deciding not to dwell on these matters anymore. He had important things to attend to and no time to waste on personal affairs.<br /> "Young lad, are you going to Feidgeuo Manor for a job interview?" The driver, curious about Wesley's destination, inquired.<br /> Feidgeuo Manor was Yeadeo's most mysterious private area. Originally a villa area, it was bought at a huge cost five years ago and completely renovated. It was said to have cost a trillion dollars. The former villa area was now Feidgeuo Manor.<br /> "That's my home," Wesley replied nonchalantly.<br /> The driver was taken aback by this revelation, silently cursing Wesley for bragging. After a couple of minutes, the driver regained his composure. "It seems like you and I both prefer to keep a low profile. My car usually gathers dust at home, so I occasionally drive a taxi to experience life."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "My car has been driven by my assistant for the past few years, so it's not gathering dust."<br /> "Haha..." The driver laughed. "We should get together sometime and see whose car is more impressive."<br /> "Sure, whenever we have the time."<br /> As they chatted, the vehicle soon arrived near Feidgeuo Manor, where the massive head of the Feidgeuo Peak protruded, creating a unique landscape in Yeadeo.<br /> The driver asked with a smile, "Since you're the owner here, it's fine if I drive in, right?"<br /> "Of course," Wesley replied.<br /> As soon as Wesley spoke, several cars caught up from behind.<br /> The cars surrounded the one Wesley was in, with the front vehicles braking to force the car to a stop.<br /> When numerous people descended from cars wielding harpoons and steel pipes, the driver's face paled.<br /> Frank and his group got out of the cars, instantly closing in, and without hesitation, started attacking, the steel pipes and harpoons thudding against the car.<br /> Frank's henchman yanked open the door of Wesley's car, poised to stab Wesley with a harpoon, but Wesley swiftly exited the vehicle.<br /> With a firm step on the ground, he launched a swift hit.<br /> A muffled sound echoed as the henchman was hit away.<br /> "What are you looking at?" Frank noticed his henchmen were all staring at him. "All of you, attack together and take him down!"<br /> As he commanded, the henchmen Frank brought with him surged forward.<br /> The taxi driver, trembling, took out his phone to call the police, but Frank glared at him. "I am Frank Reed from Yeadeo Harbor. If you dare, go ahead and make that call."<br /> Frank, leveraging his sister Taylor's status, had been causing trouble in Yeadeo Harbor, and no one dared to provoke him.<br /> Upon hearing Frank's name, the driver hastily put away his phone. "Mr. Reed, I'll just check the time, you guys continue."<br /> "Huh!" Frank snorted coldly, casting his gaze towards the surrounded Wesley.<br /> The sounds of thuds continued to ring out incessantly. Because Wesley was completely surrounded, Frank was unable to see the situation inside clearly, but he could imagine it. After all, in Frank's mind, the henchmen under his command were not to be trifled with.<br /> "Hit him hard for me!"<br /> Another muffled sound and a figure flew out. At that moment, Frank finally saw the situation clearly, and his face turned pale.<br /> Frank knew that Wesley liked to practice martial arts, but he had never expected Wesley to be this skilled. It wasn't Wesley who had been beaten, but his own men by Wesley alone.<br /> Frantically, Frank turned and ran to retrieve a crossbow from the car.<br /> "Clear the way." Frank bellowed, aiming the crossbow at Wesley.<br /> "You scumbag, you think you can fight? Move one more time, and I'll end your life! Surrender!"<br /> Wesley, holding a wooden box, stared at Frank. Ignoring the crossbow in his hand, Wesley said, "Tell your henchmen to back off, or you'll all see the light from above!"<br /> "You're really good at pretending to be tough." Frank took two steps forward. "See the light? Move a muscle and see if I can end your life or not! If you don't have the guts, apologize now!"<br /> Wesley turned his head and looked at the approaching cars, with two expensive ones in the lead, two more in the rear, and another one in the middle.<br /> "Keep acting tough, and I'll put a hole in your head." Frank spoke while glancing at the five cars. "What, looking for help?"<br /> "Let me tell you, those who ride in these cars are not the kind of weaklings like you who rely on connections. With me here, in Yeadeo's social hierarchy, even those who ride in such cars wouldn't dare meddle in this matter. And let me make it clear, without my sister, you're nothing."<br /> <br /> Chapter 4<br /> As Frank's words faded, the five cars came to a halt.<br /> A bodyguard opened the door of the one in the middle, revealing a dazzling pair of shining shoes catching everyone's eye.<br /> The shining shoe encased a beautiful foot. Above, the skirt's hem was adorned with lace.<br /> Then, like a fairy stepping out of a painting, she appeared before everyone's eyes.<br /> The lady was beautiful!<br /> Frank was mesmerized. Ever since the Reed family rose to prominence, he had been surrounded by ladies, but compared to the elegant lady before him, they were worlds apart.<br /> It wasn't just a difference in appearance but an incomparable gap in demeanor.<br /> The lady descending from the Maybach seemed like a celestial being untouched by mortal affairs.<br /> The embodiment of a fairy in the mundane world.<br /> She simply stood there after getting out of the car, perfectly embodying what it meant to be graceful and elegant.<br /> The lady glanced at Wesley, then at Frank.<br /> Frank grinned, saying, "May I have the honor of knowing the name of this esteemed lady? I am Frank..."<br /> The lady spoke calmly. "Disrespect Mr. Harrington, and you're done for."<br /> Her bodyguards, unfazed by Frank's crossbow, swiftly overwhelmed him, sending him crashing to the ground.<br /> The henchmen who had come with Frank, previously defeated by Wesley, now scrambled to their feet and fled in all directions.<br /> Who would dare provoke someone who could afford such a car?<br /> "My sister is Taylor Reed, the chairperson of Reed Group," Frank shouted, clutching his head.<br /> Ignoring him, one of the bodyguards dragged him to the roadside grass while another used a belt to tighten around Frank's neck, exerting pressure.<br /> "Enough, a lesson is all that's needed." Wesley spoke calmly, and only when the lady gestured did the bodyguards release Frank.<br /> Frank lay there, already unconscious.<br /> Wesley turned to the lady. "Who are you?"<br /> "I am Mia Roberts, the general manager of Vinver Business Alliance's Yeadeo branch." She looked at Wesley and continued, "Mr. Harrington, my father mentioned that you have miraculous healing skills and earnestly requested your assistance. A generous reward awaits."<br /> Wesley furrowed his brow slightly, thinking, "There are indeed people who recognize my abilities and status, yet I've rarely intervened in the past five years. Today, shortly after I divorced Taylor, she is here. Whose arrangement is this?"<br /> "Mr. Harrington, my father also mentioned that you are benevolent and has raised the banner of compassion among healers, serving as a role model and benchmark for all in the medical field."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "You have a way with words. Tell me the specifics."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, please get in the car first. I will explain in detail on the way."<br /> The phrase "compassionate healer" held significant weight for Wesley, who had saved countless lives from the brink of death.<br /> Without further ado, he got into the car.<br /> Inside, after Mia brewed coffee for Wesley, she began. "Vinver Business Alliance has a wide range of business operations, and I mainly oversee the health supplement sector, which has seen some success in recent years.<br /> "Recently, Quinn Kingsley started using our medicines, and now there's an accident."<br /> As she spoke, Mia kept her gaze fixed on Wesley.<br /> Quinn, the undisputed leader of Yeadeo, was a figure of immense influence.<br /> Upon hearing this name, Wesley showed no particular reaction. "If the city's leader faces issues with your products, it is indeed a concern. Let's go and see."<br /> With just a sentence, Wesley leaned back in his seat, closing his eyes to rest.<br /> Mia was secretly alarmed, thinking, "He knows who Quinn is, yet he seems indifferent. Who is this Wesley, really? No wonder Dad has instructed me to find a way to win his favor." Mia's inner resistance toward Wesley quietly shifted.<br /> Wesley had piqued her curiosity.<br /> As the vehicle was moving, Wesley's phone rang.<br /> Wesley opened his eyes and took out his phone to see Taylor calling.<br /> Pressing the answer button, he asked, "What's the matter?"<br /> On the other end of the line, Taylor, driving towards Feidgeuo Manor, had a grim expression.<br /> She thought, "Has Wesley ever spoken to me in such a cold tone before? Is he really this heartless right after our divorce?"<br /> Already furious, she snapped. "Wesley, do you even consider yourself a human being?<br /> "Today, not only did you lay hands on my mother, but you also had someone attack my brother. Do you not remember our past at all?"<br /> Wesley calmly replied, "Do we have a past to remember?"<br /> "You truly are a heartless scumbag, just as my mother said. You are an ungrateful and vicious person I raised for five years. Even a pet would wag its tail at me!"<br /> Taylor wanted to continue her tirade, but the phone line had already turned busy.<br /> This only fueled her anger further.<br /> Just now, she had received a call from Frank's underlings, informing her that Wesley had sent people to attack Frank and even intended to end him.<br /> Taylor wanted to demand answers, but...<br /> As Taylor was clutching her fists, her gaze turned icy.<br /> After a moment, she picked up her phone again. "Wesley, you are so narrow-minded. You have no ambition. Any lady would steer clear of you."<br /> "Just because I dumped you, you are doing this on purpose to make me feel sick. Pretending to be aloof and seeking revenge? Do you even deserve it?"<br /> "In Yeadeo, squashing you would be as easy as squashing an ant. You're asking for it! If anything happens to my brother, I will make you wish you were ending!"<br /> Her furious voice message echoed in the car.<br /> Wesley chuckled and put away his phone.<br /> Beside him, Mia seemed contemplative. Before coming, she had already ordered a swift investigation into Wesley.<br /> She was curious, thinking, "How could someone valued by my father could be the one 'marrying into' the Reed family."<br /> Being tactful, Mia chose not to ask and pretended not to have heard.<br /> After about forty minutes, they arrived at the Kingsley Manor.<br /> The Kingsley family members, upon seeing Mia alight from the car, all wore grim expressions.<br /> Mia greeted them with a smile, "Everyone, this is Wesley Harrington, Mr. Harrington, the miraculous healer I specially invited to treat Mr. Kingsley."<br /> "Him? The gent who married into the Reed family?"<br /> "A miraculous healer? Is he even worthy? Are healers so worthless now?"<br /> "A useless gent who mooches off of the Reed family? How dare he call himself a miraculous healer? Truly a joke among all jokes."<br /> Chapter 5<br /> <br /> Amanda Kingsley, Quinn's granddaughter, stared coldly at Wesley and Mia.<br /> This lady, dressed in a smart suit, also held significant fame in Yeadeo, overseeing the region's business activities, including investment attraction and various local business negotiations.<br /> Amanda had a favorable view of Taylor, who had risen swiftly in recent times, and they had interacted frequently.<br /> She was aware of Wesley's existence and had advised Taylor to part ways with him early on.<br /> But Amanda never imagined that Mia would bring someone like Wesley, a complete waste, and claim he was a miraculous healer.<br /> Glaring at Mia, she said, "Mia, once my grandfather is well, it's best for your Roberts family to leave Yeadeo."<br /> "As for you..." She glanced at Wesley. "I will advise Taylor to divorce you. You have deceived Taylor's feelings and now shamelessly made your way into my family. You are a despicable creature."<br /> After reprimanding Mia and Wesley, she turned to an elderly gent beside her, and her tone and attitude completely changed. "Mr. Phillips, sorry to trouble you. My grandfather is inside, please."<br /> Mia looked at the elderly gent, who was already in his twilight years, feeling deeply shocked.<br /> Scott Phillips, the 38th generation heir of the Healing Clinic, was now ninety-two years old.<br /> Renowned as a miraculous healer, he was a respected figure in the medical community of Yeadeo and even nationally.<br /> He no longer conducted consultations personally due to his old age. Mia had visited him specifically to pay her respects once she had arrived in Yeadeo but had not met Scott.<br /> She never expected Scott to appear in person. It was understandable, as Quinn held a prominent position in the city. Despite the profound influence of the Phillips family, they still had to show respect to Quinn.<br /> Mia looked at Wesley, feeling conflicted and thinking, "Dad has confidently claimed that Wesley has extraordinary abilities, but does he really?"<br /> She harbored doubts, but out of propriety, Mia spoke. "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the trouble."<br /> Wesley smiled, "It's fine. As long as the person can be healed."<br /> His open-mindedness impressed Mia.<br /> After about half an hour, Amanda emerged from the room. All eyes instantly turned towards her.<br /> It was evident that Amanda had wailed out, with traces of tears still visible.<br /> "Amanda, how is it?" A middle-aged gent anxiously asked her.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family who had rushed back also focused their attention on her.<br /> "Mr. Phillips said that there's little hope of recovery. He could only use acupuncture to wake grandfather for half an hour. When grandfather wakes up, let's all go in and see if he has any final instructions."<br /> Everyone was shocked.<br /> "How could this be?"<br /> "Is Mr. Phillips also helpless?"<br /> The members of the Kingsley family found it hard to accept this reality, especially since Quinn had always treated his juniors well.<br /> The thought of Quinn departing saddened some, and tears silently fell.<br /> Publicly, Quinn's status was the foundation of the Kingsley family's prominence in Yeadeo.<br /> If Quinn were to pass away, the Kingsley family would undoubtedly decline.<br /> The atmosphere within the Kingsley family was somber.<br /> Amanda looked at her family members, opened her mouth, but said nothing, silently turning back into the room.<br /> "Stop crying," A middle-aged gent said sternly, "Dad wouldn't want to see you all in tears. If he's really leaving, we mustn't let him worry about us. Pull yourselves together."<br /> After these words, the middle-aged gent also entered the room.<br /> The younger members of the Kingsley family wiped their tears vigorously, trying to force smiles, but in truth, they looked better at crying than pretending to be happy.<br /> Mia's spirit plummeted as she realized the gravity of the situation. Even if an ordinary person passed away from consuming health supplements, it spelled big trouble for those who sold them. And when the deceased happened to be Quinn, the stakes were even higher.<br /> She understood that it would be difficult for this branch to stay in Yeadeo, and even the headquarters might face repercussions.<br /> "Let's go in and have a look." Wesley glanced at Mia. "There might still be a chance."<br /> "Ah..." Mia stared at Wesley in surprise. Seeing him already heading towards the room, she quickly followed suit.<br /> Inside the room, the members of the Kingsley family stood around the mattress, maintaining a certain distance.<br /> Scott lit the alcohol lamp and took out the needles, his expression solemn.<br /> He looked at the members of the Kingsley family. "Think about what you want to say to Mr. Kingsley later. Once you're ready, let me know, and then I'll proceed with the acupuncture."<br /> As he said this, tears welled up in many eyes.<br /> "If you don't mind, let me take a look. I have a way." Wesley spoke up, drawing everyone's attention.<br /> Amanda's face darkened. "Who let you in? Get out!"<br /> "Mia, have you lost your mind? Tricked by this trash and actually brought him here as a miracle healer. Get out with him! I'll settle the score with you in a couple of days."<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, at a loss for words.<br /> "Even Mr. Phillips is unable to reverse the situation. What use are you? Get out." Another younger member of the Kingsley family angrily rebuked.<br /> The middle-aged gent added, "We're in no mood right now. You better leave immediately."<br /> "I understand your narrow-mindedness," Wesley continued, "But as a healer, once I see a patient, I cannot stand by and watch him draw his last breath."<br /> "Wesley, you're quite the charlatan. Do you really want to be gone right now?" Amanda's voice was filled with anger.<br /> "Amanda, let me say a few words," Scott interjected, and Amanda fell silent.<br /> Looking at Wesley, Scott began. "Young lad, at my age, I've seen a lot and have a broad perspective. Today, however, I find it hard to remain indifferent. I practiced medicine from the age of sixteen until I stopped seeing patients for a total of seventy years."<br /> "I've saved countless patients from various illnesses. I never easily declare a patient's fate, nor do I believe I have the right to do so."<br /> "But from your recent remarks, it seems like you're accusing me of such actions. Young people wanting to make a name for themselves by stepping on the shoulders of their predecessors, I can understand."<br /> "But this kind of behavior displeases me."<br /> "My displeasure, what does it mean to you? Do you understand?"<br /> "Even if you are a healer, your career will be ruined because of this."<br /> Chapter 6 <br /> In the face of Scott's veiled threats, Wesley simply smiled and brushed them off.<br /> Looking at Scott, he asked, "I've always focused on the issue at hand rather than attacking individuals. I have a few questions for you. If you can't administer the needles, how long do you think Quinn can hold on?"<br /> "Seven days, but he will remain unconscious," Scott replied bluntly.<br /> "Then let me ask you this, is there anyone in the world with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "Outrageous," Amanda coldly interjected, "Mr. Phillips is unparalleled in his medical expertise."<br /> Scott glanced at Amanda. "Amanda, let me handle this question."<br /> Continuing to address Wesley, he said, "I don't underestimate myself, nor do I overestimate. There are countless talented individuals in the world, like stars in the sky. I may not dare claim to be the best in medical skills, but those who surpass me are few."<br /> "That means there are some," Wesley calmly remarked, causing Scott's expression to shift slightly, "Indeed, there are."<br /> "Then let me ask you this. Do you think within seven days, the Kingsley family won't find someone with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "If they do find someone, do you believe there is an illness that you cannot cure, but this person can?"<br /> Wesley's questions were sharp and resounding.<br /> Scott's face changed once more as he was rendered speechless.<br /> "Even if there is, that person will never be you." Amanda's face turned icy. "Now get out. Don't spout your eloquence here. Your deceitful behavior is repulsive."<br /> "Your understanding of me is merely hearsay, isn't it?" Wesley retorted, his gaze mocking Amanda, "Has your background and education taught you such arrogance and prejudice?"<br /> "Arrogance?" Amanda's face grew colder as she disdainfully looked at Wesley. "Prejudice?<br /> "Did I say something wrong just now? You are nothing but stagnant waste, a parasite living off others. If it weren't for Taylor, you would have starved on the streets long ago."<br /> "Relying on sweet words, deceiving Taylor. She, with her kind heart, can't bear to divorce you, but don't push your luck. If it weren't for Taylor's sake, you would have been sent out long ago."<br /> Scott interrupted Amanda, "Amanda, although I find this lad a bit annoying, what he said does hold some truth. There are indeed individuals with better medical skills than me. Your grandfather can hold on for seven days. Try reaching out to see if someone can come over. I'll help you make connections."<br /> "If it really doesn't work out after seven days, I'll administer the needles to your grandfather. However, at that point, I can only buy you three minutes."<br /> As soon as Scott spoke, the faces of the Kingsley family members grew even more solemn. True healers were rare and not easily summoned.<br /> While the Kingsley family had connections in Yeadeo, their influence waned outside of it.<br /> "Mr. Phillips, please administer the needles. Life has its ups and downs, and we understand that. Just buy my father a bit more time." The middle-aged gent spoke up.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family nodded in agreement.<br /> Amanda looked at Scott. "Mr. Phillips, please."<br /> "In that case, please have everyone unrelated leave. I need silence," Scott calmly stated.<br /> Amanda glared at Wesley, her eyes speaking volumes without a word.<br /> The unrelated individuals were, naturally, Wesley and Mia.<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, intending to leave, but she suddenly hesitated.<br /> Instead of leaving, Wesley moved forward.<br /> "What are you doing?" A young member of the Kingsley family stepped forward with a stern expression, pushing Wesley.<br /> In one swift motion, Wesley executed a clean shoulder throw, toppling the young gent to the ground, his own expression turning cold.<br /> "A bunch of fools! If it weren't for my teacher's teachings about not turning a blind eye to those in need, I wouldn't bother with you ignorant lot," Wesley remarked with disdain.<br /> As Wesley effortlessly took down one individual from the Kingsley family, the others seemed slow to react.<br /> By the time they realized what was happening, Wesley had already picked up the needle next to Scott and casually flicked his wrist.<br /> The needle flew out of his hand, piercing Quinn's temple, followed by a second needle, a third needle, and so on.<br /> "What are you doing? Stop!" Amanda's voice rose in urgency, echoed by the rest of the Kingsley family members who rushed forward to restrain Wesley.<br /> "Stay back, everyone. Wait." Scott suddenly stood up, blocking the others. "Let him try."<br /> Amanda and the others were left dumbfounded, thinking, "What does this mean?"<br /> Despite their confusion, they heeded Scott's words.<br /> After Scott stopped the members of the Kingsley family, he fixed his gaze on Wesley.<br /> Wesley proceeded to use eighteen needles in succession, symbolizing the levels of pain.<br /> Even if someone had descended into the depths of hell, they must be brought back.<br /> The final needle, also piercing a vital point, caused Quinn's body to tremble suddenly, resonating with the previous eighteen needles.<br /> Scott's eyes widened, his body trembling slightly. His reaction left Amanda and the others even more puzzled, but none dared to interrupt.<br /> Moments later, Wesley placed a palm on Quinn's chest, causing all eighteen needles to be shaken off. When all the needles landed on the ground, the part of the skin where the needles had pierced turned dark.<br /> Wesley then dragged Quinn to the edge of the mattress, flipped him over with his head facing downwards, and gave him a firm pat on the back.<br /> Quinn spat out a mouthful of black liquid. When Wesley flipped him back to lie flat, his complexion had regained some color.<br /> "The Hand of Darkness... It's the Hand of Darkness!" Scott exclaimed with excitement, his body quivering, "It's the Hand that descends into the dark world, snatching people from the hands of the Evil!"<br /> "You do have some knowledge, recognizing the Hand of Darkness." Wesley glanced at Scott.<br /> Scott's gaze towards Wesley had undergone a drastic change. He respectfully clasped his hands together.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thirty years ago, I had the honor of attending a teaching conference held by Mr. Vanderbilt. I saw the Hand of Darkness, but my limited aptitude only allowed me to grasp the basics."<br /> "I have been blind and ignorant. I apologize for my earlier offenses. Please forgive me, Mr. Harrington."<br /> The Mr. Vanderbilt Scott referred to was Wesley's teacher, Ulysses Vanderbilt. He generously imparted his skills to others, but the ability to learn depended on one's innate talent.<br /> In this world, few could learn Ulysses' skills.<br /> Scott had been fortunate to receive guidance from Ulysses, which had elevated his medical skills. However, the Hand of Darkness, a miraculous ability, was beyond his comprehension.<br /> Wesley smiled faintly, "Your actions earlier are understandable. I appreciate your words."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you must be an exceptional disciple of Mr. Vanderbilt, possessing unparalleled magnanimity. Impressive," Scott continued.<br /> "Enough with the flattery at your age."<br /> "You are mistaken, Mr. Harrington. Every word I speak is sincere."<br /> Mia, Amanda, and the others stood bewildered by the unfolding situation.<br /> "Mr. Phillips... he... he..." Amanda's words faltered.<br /> Scott turned to the members of the Kingsley family. "Meeting Mr. Harrington was Quinn's luck. His symptoms have been cured by Mr. Harrington. With a few days of rest, he will be fine."<br /> The waste Taylor had previously said was called Mr. Harrington by Scott!<br /> Recalling their previous attitudes, Amanda hurriedly apologized, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> The members of the Kingsley family all apologized in unison, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> Chapter 7 <br /> With a faint smile, Wesley remarked, "As family members of a patient, your actions earlier are understandable. There's no need for such formality."<br /> Amanda's perplexity deepened as she thought, "Where is the cowardly waste that Taylor described? This display of magnanimity and breadth is far from it."<br /> Mia, too, felt a shiver of realization, thinking, "No wonder Dad has insisted on my proximity to Wesley.<br /> This guy..."<br /> She gazed at Wesley, her curiosity piqued, a sense of exploration stirring within her.<br /> "Mia has brought you here, Mr. Harrington, to cure my grandfather. The Kingsley family will never forget this act. However, considering that my grandfather's ailment stemmed from the health supplements produced by the Vinver Business Alliance, we will be conducting an investigation into it."<br /> Amanda continued, looking at Wesley, "What do you think... of this approach?"<br /> It was Mia who had invited Wesley, so Amanda had grown wiser, refraining from asking for a direct punishment of the Vinver Business Alliance.<br /> As Mia heard Amanda's words, her heart skipped a beat, realizing trouble was brewing.<br /> "On the way here, Ms. Roberts briefed me on the situation. You conducted experiments on mice, correct?"<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes, the health supplements we received were exclusively provided by the Roberts family. There were no similar cases on the market, so we used mice for testing.<br /> "All the mice that ingested this supplement were gone."<br /> She looked at Mia and added, her voice turning colder, "Before the experiment, I specifically contacted Mia to inquire about the testing methods during the development phase, which involved mice.<br /> "There have been individuals eyeing my grandfather's position, some even wishing for his demise. I never imagined that the Vinver Business Alliance, which I attracted for investment, would become a weapon in someone else's hands."<br /> "Do you have any of the remaining medicine?" Wesley inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes."<br /> "Bring some over."<br /> Immediately, someone fetched the medicine. After it was brought to him, Wesley took out a supplement and swallowed it directly.<br /> This scene left Amanda and the others dumbfounded.<br /> Scott, too, was bewildered. "Mr. Harrington, what are you doing?"<br /> Wesley smiled, "Just proving that this medicine is not toxic."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thank you," Mia thanked sincerely, feeling like crying at that moment.<br /> Amanda, with a puzzled expression, looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, are you suggesting that my grandfather's condition wasn't caused by the Vinver Business Alliance's medicine? What about the mice?"<br /> The rest were equally puzzled.<br /> "Yes, but not entirely," Wesley said, leaving everyone even more bewildered.<br /> Mia's emotions were like a rollercoaster ride, from relief to immediate tension.<br /> "This medicine itself is not toxic, but when taken with another substance made from a certain plant, it results in Quinn's condition. The mice would die immediately, while humans could endure a few more days."<br /> Wesley continued to explain, "The plant used in this concoction is originally meant for crafting slow-acting toxins, not for human consumption."<br /> Looking at Amanda, Wesley said, "During this period, whoever had access to your grandfather and the mice will better understand why these events occurred."<br /> The gaze of members of the Kingsley family immediately focused on a lady.<br /> Amanda, somewhat incredulous, looked at her. "Can you offer an explanation?"<br /> The lady was the wife of Amanda's deceased brother. She found it hard to accept, as did the rest of the Kingsley family.<br /> This lady had been named the exemplary lady who served her family well this year, not due to her connection with the Kingsley family but because she genuinely deserved it.<br /> "What do you mean? Amanda, what explanation do you want from me?"<br /> The lady stared at Amanda. "Am I the only one who had access to Grandfather and the mice? You, and you... and you, who didn't have access?"<br /> "You all claim to treat me as family. Since I married into the Kingsley family, I have worked diligently, contributing my share even if not acknowledged."<br /> "Amanda, it has been over a year since your brother passed, and I never once considered remarrying. Now, just because of his words, you demand an explanation from me?"<br /> Pointing at Wesley, the lady questioned, "Just because he accuses me of poisoning, you suspect me? Tell me, did I poison him?" The lady glared at Wesley.<br /> "I am merely analyzing the facts. As for concluding this case, it's not within my purview," Wesley addressed the members of the Kingsley family, saying, "You should conduct a thorough investigation into this matter.<br /> "I will write a prescription. Have Quinn take it on time, and he will recover in seven days."<br /> Amanda hurried to fetch paper and pen while Wesley prepared the prescription. Once done, he was ready to leave.<br /> Amanda said hurriedly, "Mr. Harrington, I've already made arrangements for lunch."<br /> "No need," Wesley smiled.<br /> The Kingsley family sought to build closer ties with Wesley, given his extraordinary medical skills. Wesley was well aware of this.<br /> Looking at Amanda and the others, Wesley remarked, "In the future, if you encounter any difficult medical cases that others cannot solve, seek me out. Remember, cases others cannot solve."<br /> The gaze of the Kingsley family members toward Wesley changed once again. Many renowned healers had eccentric personalities and were difficult to engage.<br /> They hadn't expected Wesley to possess such remarkable medical skills without any airs.<br /> As Wesley prepared to depart, the members of the Kingsley family did not dare to insist on his stay, so they accompanied him outside.<br /> "Oh, how could we forget such an important matter? Amanda, what about the consultation fee?" The middle-aged gent inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the oversight. Please wait a moment." Amanda hurried back inside and soon returned with a bank card in hand.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, there's one million dollars in here."<br /> Without hesitation, Wesley accepted the bank card and boarded Mia's car.<br /> During the journey, Mia boldly looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, you've helped me immensely. Can I treat you to a meal? Don't decline in a hurry. It's not a fancy restaurant, but it will leave you wanting more. It's a small place on the street, with only eight plates of noodles served each day, each plate containing different ingredients.<br /> "I managed to secure a reservation. Are you interested?"<br /> Wesley thought, "Eight Plates of Noodles? Ah, Aaron's restaurant. It has been a while since I visited those old friends."<br /> Wesley nodded. "Let's go then."<br /> The restaurant, Eight Plates of Noodles, was located on Chanxold Street near the Yeadeo First Central Hospital.<br /> The establishment was small, serving only eight plates of noodles each day at a price of 10 thousand dollars each. Vernoic's television culinary program had specifically covered this incident.<br /> Reservations were a must to secure a plate.<br /> The restaurant's owner had a mysterious background. While the specifics were unknown, a high-ranking noble from the capital of Vernoic, Kingsland, had caused a scene there once.<br /> He had attempted to force his way in without a reservation. Although this incident hadn't been reported, rumors suggested that a garbage truck had to be called to dispose of the intruder's remains, as he was too shattered to be removed by conventional means.<br /> Since then, no one dared to cause trouble.<br /> On their way, Mia introduced Wesley to the background story.<br /> "Mr. Turner, two plates of noodles." Mia called out once they arrived.<br /> Aaron Turner didn't respond but visibly paused upon seeing Wesley beside Mia.<br /> A faint smile appeared on his usually stoic face. Though the flesh on the face seemed stiff, it was indeed a smile. "Coming right up."<br /> Mia glanced at Aaron with a hint of surprise, thinking, "When did he become so warm and enthusiastic? His tone seemed a bit agitated earlier, didn't it?"<br /> Soon enough, Aaron brought two plates of noodles to the table. One steaming hot and the other devoid of any warmth.<br /> As Mia observed Aaron placing the plate without steam in front of Wesley, her expression changed slightly.<br /> It was a plate of instant noodles having soaked in cold water, with the seasoning barely dissolved.<br /> She felt a sense of panic. Mia had wanted to leave a good impression on Wesley, which was why she had chosen this place.<br /> However, Aaron had served such a plate of noodles.<br /> She dared not question Aaron. The type of noodles served here was not determined by the guests but by Aaron's mood.<br /> "This girl named Mia is quite something, living up to her name, and quite kind-hearted," Aaron remarked, looking at Wesley.<br /> "Get lost," Wesley retorted, using his fork to pick up the noodles and devouring them.<br /> Mia's face turned pale instantly. Disrespecting Aaron was akin to risking Wesley's life.<br /> To her astonishment, Aaron chuckled, tears welling up in his eyes.<br /> He wiped them away. "Alright, I'll leave you to your meal."<br /> Before departing, he gave Mia a thumbs-up. "Seize the opportunity."<br /> The eight plates of noodles symbolized the eight comrades who had faced life and life-threatening situations together.<br /> Wesley ate voraciously. Initially, they had only one pack of instant noodles to share among the eight of them, forcing them to divide it.<br /> Despite the circumstances, they devoured the noodles joyfully.<br /> Aaron had promised that once they survived, each one would have the most delicious plate of noodles.<br /> However, five of the eight had perished.<br /> Wesley had come dangerously close to life-threatening situations, but managed to cling to life.<br /> For him, the plate of noodles was not food but the bond of friendship that had shielded him from harm.<br /> "Do you... know each other?" Mia couldn't help but ask, her voice low and curious.<br /> "Some things are better left unknown," Wesley replied.<br /> Mia nodded in understanding, falling silent as they continued eating noodles. She couldn't help stealing glances at Wesley throughout the meal.<br /> This gent had piqued her curiosity even more.<br /> "Wesley, I see. No wonder you agreed to the divorce so readily. You've already found someone else outside."<br /> A sharp voice interrupted their meal.<br /> Taylor approached with a cold expression, accompanied by Henry. | Adoread Romance story | 106 | https://facebook.com/61557113391558 | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1713250800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846806 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446611 | 1735168083 | 890 | 1426859107917810 | 4 | 1.0750287970217E+15 | 1715065200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120206467056180695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1712240564 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434887251_3273516259616813_4965928032027185860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ITie4m6mDmcQ7kNvgF39Sy7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAcTA20T57nzysouEuK_o7pZp3Y0XqyL2fgucP3yDHGEg&oe=6663EDC2 | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434948003_814909497119687_9211098532922127326_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x7WiDOdWsTYQ7kNvgESVFnJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBulFosd9SXN4G0tMRKNSznqK_fnZdYowVwZ6iongagTg&oe=66640C13 | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846727 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446608 | 1735168083 | 890 | 1114740226315570 | 1 | 1.1725969805388E+15 | 1713337200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 235254296344339 | 0 | Adoread Romance story | 120207848352080113 | play.google.com | Install now | NONE | video | HOT BOOK✨Tap the button to read more👉 | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.adoread.book | 1713261153 | 2.3525429634434E+14 | Adoread Romance story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435725109_1844898732623030_3157260338843817817_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gLVDTCMabqcQ7kNvgGYXWq0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD-buN0y-6LBs1y28OBGpxVFcqQjM5MbUh5A0vwGE7IfA&oe=66640E6E | person_profile | 0 | Adoread Romance story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436361626_1165126564644142_6486347640026579346_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UAiwtdOhJuUQ7kNvgF3okF2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAs5XJ2oF5e_N6TJfXemGeRirh2GTzySOTTeMVaI1YQ5g&oe=666400E2 | 0 | 3 | Chapter 1 <br /> "Wesley, are you trying to harm me? You useless piece of trash, can't even make a decent cup of coffee, can you?"<br /> Madison Blair lifted her coffee cup and splashed it directly onto Wesley Harrington's face.<br /> "What are you looking at, you spineless waste? Your name sounds so lofty? I might as well call you a waste."<br /> Glancing at the grotesque expression of his wife's mother, Wesley pulled out his phone to check the time.<br /> Exactly twelve o'clock. It had been five full years since he married Taylor Reed.<br /> The appointed time had come.<br /> He had fulfilled his promise, safeguarding the Reed family for five years, transforming them from a family living off fishing to one perceived as affluent by the common folk.<br /> Wiping the coffee off his face, he turned and walked away.<br /> "Where do you think you're going? Go fetch some more coffee," Madison shouted.<br /> "Madison, didn't you say this waste is obedient at home, doing whatever he's told? I don't think he's taking it lying down."<br /> Madison grew angrier. "Wesley, you stop right there. My family has fed and housed you. If you dare disobey, I'll have you thrown out!"<br /> Ignoring her, Wesley continued downstairs.<br /> "When Taylor comes back, I'll immediately have you two divorced. Do you hear me? Stay right there," Madison threatened, "I'll let you know your place today."<br /> Grabbing a golf club, Madison swiftly charged towards Wesley.<br /> Seeing Wesley heading downstairs, she swung the club viciously at his back.<br /> Without turning back, Wesley gently sidestepped.<br /> Losing her balance, Madison tumbled forward, rolling down the stairs with a series of thumps.<br /> "Ouch... it hurts, it hurts so much!"<br /> As Madison reached the ground floor, she wailed in pain and her sister immediately rushed to her.<br /> "Wesley, what have you done? How dare you hit my sister!" Madison's sister hurried down, checking on Madison's condition.<br /> Wesley remained silent, observing the scene.<br /> "Quick, call Taylor. Tell her to come back. Today, she must divorce this waste." Madison glared at Wesley. "How dare you hit me? Not only will I let Taylor divorce you, but I'll make sure you leave in disgrace."<br /> "Mum, what's wrong?" At that moment, a gent and a lady walked in.<br /> The lady was Taylor, Madison's daughter.<br /> She ran towards Madison.<br /> As Madison pointed at Wesley, tears streamed down her face. "Taylor, he hit me, he hit me! When you're not home, he changes his attitude, scolding and hitting me in the slightest displeasure. He even pushed me down the stairs just now. Alexis can testify."<br /> Madison's sister, Alexis Blair, chimed in. "Yes, Wesley, this trash not only hit your mother but also threatened to hit me too. We cannot tolerate such trash."<br /> "Taylor, I have been telling you to divorce him for years. You've been supporting him, treating him like a Lord at home, but he's an ungrateful wolf in sheep's clothing."<br /> Helping Madison up, Taylor noticed the scrapes on Madison's arms and legs, her expression turning cold.<br /> "Wesley, why did you hit my mother? You better give me an explanation."<br /> Wesley looked at Taylor, his wife.<br /> Five years had passed, and she had never shown him kindness.<br /> Taylor dressed impeccably, a paragon of a successful lady, with a face that could be deemed angelic, yet whether her heart was as angelic remained a mystery.<br /> Her figure, too, left countless men yearning.<br /> For five years, Wesley had thought he might develop feelings for this lady, but in reality, it never happened.<br /> "There are surveillance cameras in the house," Wesley stated calmly before descending the stairs into the hallway.<br /> Despite residing in a three-story villa, Wesley's living quarters were confined to the stairwell.<br /> He harbored no resentment towards this arrangement. It was merely a promise. It was just that Taylor failed to appreciate him.<br /> This home held little value that he wished to cling onto.<br /> Retrieving a wooden box from beneath his pillow, Wesley extracted two documents. Casting a fleeting glance at the modest abode he had called home for five years, Wesley smiled faintly.<br /> He thought, "Finally... I'm free."<br /> Pushing the door ajar, Wesley was met by Taylor's piercing gaze. "I've reviewed the surveillance footage. Yes, my mother intended to strike you, but even if she did, what difference would it make?"<br /> "She's a lady. How much could her blows hurt you? Why did you dodge?"<br /> "If you hadn't dodged, my mother wouldn't have tumbled down." Wesley stared at Taylor, unable to comprehend her thought process.<br /> He had no interest in engaging in these arguments. Handing over the two documents to Taylor, he remarked, "The divorce agreement. I've already signed it. Take a look. I'm leaving with nothing."<br /> "With your current influence, there's no need for you to visit the city hall. Someone will handle it for you, right?"<br /> Madison was taken aback. She swiftly snatched the divorce agreement, flipping through it hastily.<br /> The contents were indeed straightforward. Both parties willingly divorced, with Wesley relinquishing all claims and having already signed.<br /> In an instant, Madison's pain seemed to dissipate. "Taylor, sign it quickly. Sign it."<br /> Taylor was still in a daze.<br /> She pondered.<br /> "A divorce agreement? Wesley has already prepared a divorce agreement. On what grounds?"<br /> "What gives him the right to initiate a divorce? All these years, he's done nothing at home, lacking any ambition. Always practicing martial arts, what right does he have to seek a divorce?"<br /> "If anyone should initiate it, it should be me. Moreover, now that I'm back to discussing this matter with him. Could it be that word got out, and Wesley, for the sake of his pride, rushed to prepare a divorce agreement first?"<br /> "It must be so, but... No!"<br /> "Wanting to leave with nothing, is he retreating to advance? As the chairman of the Reed Group, how could I be served with a divorce?"<br /> "Hey Wesley, I never expected this from you. Have I not treated you well enough? You seek a divorce, attempting to turn your retreat into advance, aiming to embarrass me?"<br /> Taylor glared at Wesley. "I'm telling you, it's impossible."<br /> Snatching the divorce agreement, she tore it to shreds.<br /> "Taylor, what are you doing? Such a great opportunity. Why not just sign it and let him leave?" Madison grew anxious.<br /> "Mom, I do intend to divorce this trash, but the decision must come from me. I returned specifically to address this matter."<br /> With that, Taylor produced two documents. "Wesley, remember that it's me who's divorcing you. It's me who no longer wants you. Initially, out of marital obligation, I had considered offering you some compensation. Now, you don't even need to think about it. Sign the divorce agreement and leave my home."<br /> Wesley offered a faint smile as he accepted the divorce agreement.<br /> "What are you laughing at?" Taylor demanded angrily.<br /> Wesley's smile seemed to mock her, fueling her rage.<br /> Ignoring her entirely, Wesley signed the document and handed it over.<br /> "What are you laughing at? Answer me! Who do you think you are?" Taylor roared once more.<br /> Wesley glanced at her before striding towards the exit.<br /> "Stop!" The gent who had accompanied Taylor stepped forward, blocking Wesley's path. "Taylor asked you a question, and... Your previous attitude displeased me. Apologize to Taylor, or I'll have you leave in disgrace!"<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 <br /> "Yes, let him leave in disgrace. He thought he could just hit me and walk away so easily," Madison joined in the commotion, also noticing the gent blocking Wesley's path.<br /> Madison had a keen interest in luxury goods, having frequented various high-end establishments over the years as the Reed family's living conditions improved. The gent was wearing an expensive watch and dressed head to toe in high-end luxury brands.<br /> Seeing Madison's gaze, the gent spoke. "Rest assured, today Wesley must pay the price."<br /> The gent introduced himself, looking at Wesley, "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Henry Clark, the eldest son of the Clark family and the general manager of the Clark Group in the North District."<br /> "From now on, I will accompany Taylor on her journey of life, and I will not allow anyone to bully her."<br /> "My identity carries weight. You should understand that. Now, apologize to Taylor. Apologize! Did you hear me? Apologize!"<br /> Madison's eyes lit up. She hadn't expected the gent before her to hold such a high status. She continued to shout, "Did you hear that? Taylor will be with Mr. Clark from now on. Apologize now."<br /> Wesley glanced at Henry, then at Taylor. He thought, "Have they been together all along?" Wesley had wanted to ask but decided against it because there was no need. He simply gave them a glance and continued walking towards the exit.<br /> "Are you ignoring me?" Henry's face turned cold as he reached out to grab Wesley. Henry's hand froze mid-air as he received a solid hit.<br /> "Until I sign the divorce papers, Taylor and I are still wife and husband. I don't care to investigate whether you two had any intimate relationship during that time, but don't provoke me, or I won't hesitate to make you regret it." Wesley's gaze was icy, and as Henry met his eyes, he felt a twinge of fear and swallowed his words.<br /> Taylor was also stunned. She knew exactly what Wesley had been like over the past five years. There were many surveillance cameras in the house, and she would often check them.<br /> Even when Taylor wasn't home, despite how her family treated Wesley, he always obeyed without complaint, especially towards her. He had never raised his voice, no matter how they treated him.<br /> Today, not only did Wesley dodge when her mother struck, but he also initiated the divorce and now even struck Henry. <br /> Taylor was at a loss for words, thinking, "How could this cowardly gent dare? On what grounds does he dare?"<br /> This change was difficult for Taylor to accept as if she didn't truly understand this guy. The gent who used to be obedient to her, completely submissive, now revealed this side of himself. She watched Wesley walk away in a daze, feeling a strange discomfort in her heart.<br /> "Isn't he leaving with nothing?" Alexis pointed at the wooden box Wesley was holding. "What is he taking with him?"<br /> Madison also realized. Over the past five years, Wesley had always treasured this wooden box, carrying it with him wherever he went. She thought there must be something valuable inside.<br /> Realizing this, Madison hurriedly followed. "Wesley, stop right there, leave the wooden box."<br /> Wesley paused, glanced at Madison, and said, "This is my personal belonging."<br /> "Nonsense, what personal belonging could you possibly have after marrying into the Reed family? Everything you've eaten, worn, and lived in over the years has been provided by the Reed family. Put it down."<br /> As she spoke, Madison reached out to grab the wooden box.<br /> "Ah..." A scream rang out as Madison quickly retracted her hand, a gash appearing on her palm, a crimson liquid dripping.<br /> The wooden box was now stained with the same crimson liquid, trembling lightly in Wesley's hand.<br /> "It's not the right time yet, the day you thirst for this crimson liquid will come," Wesley murmured softly, patting the box before turning to continue his stride towards the exit.<br /> "Monster! A monster!" Madison screamed, causing Taylor and the others to rush out. Seeing the wound in Madison's hand, Taylor was filled with rage.<br /> "Wesley, aren't you going to say something?" Wesley halted once more, contemplating before meeting Taylor's gaze.<br /> "Just stay out of my way from now on. Consider this a warning to you."<br /> "Taylor, that wooden box of his has a mechanism. It must hold something valuable! We can't let him take it with him," Madison, enduring the pain, reminded them.<br /> "Mom, your injury is important. We'll deal with him later. Let me take you to the hospital first." Taylor comforted Madison before calling out to the retreating Wesley.<br /> "Our marriage is over! Yet, you dared to hurt my mother! This won't be the end of it! I will make you regret it!" Ignoring her, Wesley continued walking out.<br /> "Rest assured, I promise he won't see the light of day tomorrow." Henry stepped forward to console. "Let's focus on getting your wound treated first."<br /> "I want him to regret ever existing in this world, to apologize to me in repentance," Madison roared.<br /> "Mom, trust me, I will make him do just that." Taylor looked at Madison with a mix of pity and determination. "Let's go to the hospital first."<br /> In the villa area, Wesley halted, his voice cold. "Get out."<br /> An elderly gent leaped down from a tree, appearing to be in his seventies, yet landing silently from a height of around ten feet.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, your father wants you to come home and take charge."<br /> "He stopped being my father five years ago. He's my enemy."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you misunderstood your father. He had his reasons back then. I swear in my life, once you know the truth, you will forgive him."<br /> "Huh!" Wesley smirked coldly, saying, "I nearly passed away back then. Is that also a misunderstanding?"<br /> The old gent pleaded, "Mr. Harrington, this situation is truly not as you perceive it."<br /> Wesley didn't engage further with the old guy. The events of that year were etched in his memory forever. He was the one who had been abandoned. If not for that incident, why would he have stayed with the Reed family for five years?<br /> Watching Wesley walk away, the old gent had tears silently streaming down his face. "Mr. Harrington, I truly... I truly can't bring myself to speak the truth, but you have misunderstood your father. He also bears burdens and endures pains beyond what an ordinary person can handle."<br /> As Wesley's figure disappeared, the old gent stood up, hesitated for a moment, then dialed a number on his phone.<br /> "Mr. Harrington is now divorced. I've given you the news firsthand. If your daughter is truly together with Mr. Harrington, you must fulfill the promise and let her persuade Mr. Harrington to come home."<br /> After hanging up, a middle-aged gent in a luxurious estate jumped up excitedly. Calming himself, he immediately made another call. "My dear, you're at Yeadeo, right?<br /> "Go find Wesley now. Don't mention the engagement for now. Use every means to get close to him, make him fall in love with you."<br /> "Dad, I don't have time."<br /> "No matter what you are busy with, you must go find Wesley now. No matter what reason you approach him, you must leave a good impression the first time."<br /> "Dad, I'm in trouble right now. If I don't handle it well, I might be good as gone. I have to deal with it immediately. I'm hanging up."<br /> Chapter 3 <br /> The middle-aged gent's voice lowered significantly. "Is there a big incident happening? You didn't tell me? What happened?"<br /> "Quinn Kingsley from Yeadeo, Mr. Kingsley, used our product and now has one foot on the grave. If something really happens to him..."<br /> "You mean Quinn, the uncontested leader of Yeadeo?"<br /> "Yes."<br /> "In that case, you should go find Wesley. Trust me, in this world, there is no problem that Wesley can't solve. As long as he's willing to help, you'll be fine. Listen to me, go find Wesley immediately."<br /> The lady fell silent for a moment before saying, "Okay."<br /> At Yeadeo Harbor, a gent with a large flaxen chain and a watch, sporting a crew cut, hurriedly disembarked, accompanied by a dozen gentlemen.<br /> "Mr. Reed, wherever that trash is, we will find him and tear him apart."<br /> "Yes, that guy dared to harm your mother. We'll make sure he pays for it."<br /> Frank Reed's face turned cold. "Wesley, you coward, thinking you can overturn the world? How dare you touch my mom? Just wait until I find you, you're finished."<br /> "We've found him. Wesley got into a taxi, and our boys followed him."<br /> "Let's go!" Frank waved his hand, leading dozens of men who boarded the car with harpoons, steel pipes, and other weapons.<br /> Inside the taxi, Wesley gazed at the scenery outside, feeling a strange sense of tranquility.<br /> He thought to himself, "I never imagined that while I was secretly paving the way for the Reed family, Taylor, after progressing so rapidly, would start looking down on me more and more."<br /> "Those ladies who know my true identity, which one of them isn't trying to throw themselves at me? Ladies like that don't interest me."<br /> "Being an ordinary gent is truly difficult," Wesley murmured, smiling faintly and deciding not to dwell on these matters anymore. He had important things to attend to and no time to waste on personal affairs.<br /> "Young lad, are you going to Feidgeuo Manor for a job interview?" The driver, curious about Wesley's destination, inquired.<br /> Feidgeuo Manor was Yeadeo's most mysterious private area. Originally a villa area, it was bought at a huge cost five years ago and completely renovated. It was said to have cost a trillion dollars. The former villa area was now Feidgeuo Manor.<br /> "That's my home," Wesley replied nonchalantly.<br /> The driver was taken aback by this revelation, silently cursing Wesley for bragging. After a couple of minutes, the driver regained his composure. "It seems like you and I both prefer to keep a low profile. My car usually gathers dust at home, so I occasionally drive a taxi to experience life."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "My car has been driven by my assistant for the past few years, so it's not gathering dust."<br /> "Haha..." The driver laughed. "We should get together sometime and see whose car is more impressive."<br /> "Sure, whenever we have the time."<br /> As they chatted, the vehicle soon arrived near Feidgeuo Manor, where the massive head of the Feidgeuo Peak protruded, creating a unique landscape in Yeadeo.<br /> The driver asked with a smile, "Since you're the owner here, it's fine if I drive in, right?"<br /> "Of course," Wesley replied.<br /> As soon as Wesley spoke, several cars caught up from behind.<br /> The cars surrounded the one Wesley was in, with the front vehicles braking to force the car to a stop.<br /> When numerous people descended from cars wielding harpoons and steel pipes, the driver's face paled.<br /> Frank and his group got out of the cars, instantly closing in, and without hesitation, started attacking, the steel pipes and harpoons thudding against the car.<br /> Frank's henchman yanked open the door of Wesley's car, poised to stab Wesley with a harpoon, but Wesley swiftly exited the vehicle.<br /> With a firm step on the ground, he launched a swift hit.<br /> A muffled sound echoed as the henchman was hit away.<br /> "What are you looking at?" Frank noticed his henchmen were all staring at him. "All of you, attack together and take him down!"<br /> As he commanded, the henchmen Frank brought with him surged forward.<br /> The taxi driver, trembling, took out his phone to call the police, but Frank glared at him. "I am Frank Reed from Yeadeo Harbor. If you dare, go ahead and make that call."<br /> Frank, leveraging his sister Taylor's status, had been causing trouble in Yeadeo Harbor, and no one dared to provoke him.<br /> Upon hearing Frank's name, the driver hastily put away his phone. "Mr. Reed, I'll just check the time, you guys continue."<br /> "Huh!" Frank snorted coldly, casting his gaze towards the surrounded Wesley.<br /> The sounds of thuds continued to ring out incessantly. Because Wesley was completely surrounded, Frank was unable to see the situation inside clearly, but he could imagine it. After all, in Frank's mind, the henchmen under his command were not to be trifled with.<br /> "Hit him hard for me!"<br /> Another muffled sound and a figure flew out. At that moment, Frank finally saw the situation clearly, and his face turned pale.<br /> Frank knew that Wesley liked to practice martial arts, but he had never expected Wesley to be this skilled. It wasn't Wesley who had been beaten, but his own men by Wesley alone.<br /> Frantically, Frank turned and ran to retrieve a crossbow from the car.<br /> "Clear the way." Frank bellowed, aiming the crossbow at Wesley.<br /> "You scumbag, you think you can fight? Move one more time, and I'll end your life! Surrender!"<br /> Wesley, holding a wooden box, stared at Frank. Ignoring the crossbow in his hand, Wesley said, "Tell your henchmen to back off, or you'll all see the light from above!"<br /> "You're really good at pretending to be tough." Frank took two steps forward. "See the light? Move a muscle and see if I can end your life or not! If you don't have the guts, apologize now!"<br /> Wesley turned his head and looked at the approaching cars, with two expensive ones in the lead, two more in the rear, and another one in the middle.<br /> "Keep acting tough, and I'll put a hole in your head." Frank spoke while glancing at the five cars. "What, looking for help?"<br /> "Let me tell you, those who ride in these cars are not the kind of weaklings like you who rely on connections. With me here, in Yeadeo's social hierarchy, even those who ride in such cars wouldn't dare meddle in this matter. And let me make it clear, without my sister, you're nothing."<br /> <br /> Chapter 4<br /> As Frank's words faded, the five cars came to a halt.<br /> A bodyguard opened the door of the one in the middle, revealing a dazzling pair of shining shoes catching everyone's eye.<br /> The shining shoe encased a beautiful foot. Above, the skirt's hem was adorned with lace.<br /> Then, like a fairy stepping out of a painting, she appeared before everyone's eyes.<br /> The lady was beautiful!<br /> Frank was mesmerized. Ever since the Reed family rose to prominence, he had been surrounded by ladies, but compared to the elegant lady before him, they were worlds apart.<br /> It wasn't just a difference in appearance but an incomparable gap in demeanor.<br /> The lady descending from the Maybach seemed like a celestial being untouched by mortal affairs.<br /> The embodiment of a fairy in the mundane world.<br /> She simply stood there after getting out of the car, perfectly embodying what it meant to be graceful and elegant.<br /> The lady glanced at Wesley, then at Frank.<br /> Frank grinned, saying, "May I have the honor of knowing the name of this esteemed lady? I am Frank..."<br /> The lady spoke calmly. "Disrespect Mr. Harrington, and you're done for."<br /> Her bodyguards, unfazed by Frank's crossbow, swiftly overwhelmed him, sending him crashing to the ground.<br /> The henchmen who had come with Frank, previously defeated by Wesley, now scrambled to their feet and fled in all directions.<br /> Who would dare provoke someone who could afford such a car?<br /> "My sister is Taylor Reed, the chairperson of Reed Group," Frank shouted, clutching his head.<br /> Ignoring him, one of the bodyguards dragged him to the roadside grass while another used a belt to tighten around Frank's neck, exerting pressure.<br /> "Enough, a lesson is all that's needed." Wesley spoke calmly, and only when the lady gestured did the bodyguards release Frank.<br /> Frank lay there, already unconscious.<br /> Wesley turned to the lady. "Who are you?"<br /> "I am Mia Roberts, the general manager of Vinver Business Alliance's Yeadeo branch." She looked at Wesley and continued, "Mr. Harrington, my father mentioned that you have miraculous healing skills and earnestly requested your assistance. A generous reward awaits."<br /> Wesley furrowed his brow slightly, thinking, "There are indeed people who recognize my abilities and status, yet I've rarely intervened in the past five years. Today, shortly after I divorced Taylor, she is here. Whose arrangement is this?"<br /> "Mr. Harrington, my father also mentioned that you are benevolent and has raised the banner of compassion among healers, serving as a role model and benchmark for all in the medical field."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "You have a way with words. Tell me the specifics."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, please get in the car first. I will explain in detail on the way."<br /> The phrase "compassionate healer" held significant weight for Wesley, who had saved countless lives from the brink of death.<br /> Without further ado, he got into the car.<br /> Inside, after Mia brewed coffee for Wesley, she began. "Vinver Business Alliance has a wide range of business operations, and I mainly oversee the health supplement sector, which has seen some success in recent years.<br /> "Recently, Quinn Kingsley started using our medicines, and now there's an accident."<br /> As she spoke, Mia kept her gaze fixed on Wesley.<br /> Quinn, the undisputed leader of Yeadeo, was a figure of immense influence.<br /> Upon hearing this name, Wesley showed no particular reaction. "If the city's leader faces issues with your products, it is indeed a concern. Let's go and see."<br /> With just a sentence, Wesley leaned back in his seat, closing his eyes to rest.<br /> Mia was secretly alarmed, thinking, "He knows who Quinn is, yet he seems indifferent. Who is this Wesley, really? No wonder Dad has instructed me to find a way to win his favor." Mia's inner resistance toward Wesley quietly shifted.<br /> Wesley had piqued her curiosity.<br /> As the vehicle was moving, Wesley's phone rang.<br /> Wesley opened his eyes and took out his phone to see Taylor calling.<br /> Pressing the answer button, he asked, "What's the matter?"<br /> On the other end of the line, Taylor, driving towards Feidgeuo Manor, had a grim expression.<br /> She thought, "Has Wesley ever spoken to me in such a cold tone before? Is he really this heartless right after our divorce?"<br /> Already furious, she snapped. "Wesley, do you even consider yourself a human being?<br /> "Today, not only did you lay hands on my mother, but you also had someone attack my brother. Do you not remember our past at all?"<br /> Wesley calmly replied, "Do we have a past to remember?"<br /> "You truly are a heartless scumbag, just as my mother said. You are an ungrateful and vicious person I raised for five years. Even a pet would wag its tail at me!"<br /> Taylor wanted to continue her tirade, but the phone line had already turned busy.<br /> This only fueled her anger further.<br /> Just now, she had received a call from Frank's underlings, informing her that Wesley had sent people to attack Frank and even intended to end him.<br /> Taylor wanted to demand answers, but...<br /> As Taylor was clutching her fists, her gaze turned icy.<br /> After a moment, she picked up her phone again. "Wesley, you are so narrow-minded. You have no ambition. Any lady would steer clear of you."<br /> "Just because I dumped you, you are doing this on purpose to make me feel sick. Pretending to be aloof and seeking revenge? Do you even deserve it?"<br /> "In Yeadeo, squashing you would be as easy as squashing an ant. You're asking for it! If anything happens to my brother, I will make you wish you were ending!"<br /> Her furious voice message echoed in the car.<br /> Wesley chuckled and put away his phone.<br /> Beside him, Mia seemed contemplative. Before coming, she had already ordered a swift investigation into Wesley.<br /> She was curious, thinking, "How could someone valued by my father could be the one 'marrying into' the Reed family."<br /> Being tactful, Mia chose not to ask and pretended not to have heard.<br /> After about forty minutes, they arrived at the Kingsley Manor.<br /> The Kingsley family members, upon seeing Mia alight from the car, all wore grim expressions.<br /> Mia greeted them with a smile, "Everyone, this is Wesley Harrington, Mr. Harrington, the miraculous healer I specially invited to treat Mr. Kingsley."<br /> "Him? The gent who married into the Reed family?"<br /> "A miraculous healer? Is he even worthy? Are healers so worthless now?"<br /> "A useless gent who mooches off of the Reed family? How dare he call himself a miraculous healer? Truly a joke among all jokes."<br /> Chapter 5<br /> <br /> Amanda Kingsley, Quinn's granddaughter, stared coldly at Wesley and Mia.<br /> This lady, dressed in a smart suit, also held significant fame in Yeadeo, overseeing the region's business activities, including investment attraction and various local business negotiations.<br /> Amanda had a favorable view of Taylor, who had risen swiftly in recent times, and they had interacted frequently.<br /> She was aware of Wesley's existence and had advised Taylor to part ways with him early on.<br /> But Amanda never imagined that Mia would bring someone like Wesley, a complete waste, and claim he was a miraculous healer.<br /> Glaring at Mia, she said, "Mia, once my grandfather is well, it's best for your Roberts family to leave Yeadeo."<br /> "As for you..." She glanced at Wesley. "I will advise Taylor to divorce you. You have deceived Taylor's feelings and now shamelessly made your way into my family. You are a despicable creature."<br /> After reprimanding Mia and Wesley, she turned to an elderly gent beside her, and her tone and attitude completely changed. "Mr. Phillips, sorry to trouble you. My grandfather is inside, please."<br /> Mia looked at the elderly gent, who was already in his twilight years, feeling deeply shocked.<br /> Scott Phillips, the 38th generation heir of the Healing Clinic, was now ninety-two years old.<br /> Renowned as a miraculous healer, he was a respected figure in the medical community of Yeadeo and even nationally.<br /> He no longer conducted consultations personally due to his old age. Mia had visited him specifically to pay her respects once she had arrived in Yeadeo but had not met Scott.<br /> She never expected Scott to appear in person. It was understandable, as Quinn held a prominent position in the city. Despite the profound influence of the Phillips family, they still had to show respect to Quinn.<br /> Mia looked at Wesley, feeling conflicted and thinking, "Dad has confidently claimed that Wesley has extraordinary abilities, but does he really?"<br /> She harbored doubts, but out of propriety, Mia spoke. "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the trouble."<br /> Wesley smiled, "It's fine. As long as the person can be healed."<br /> His open-mindedness impressed Mia.<br /> After about half an hour, Amanda emerged from the room. All eyes instantly turned towards her.<br /> It was evident that Amanda had wailed out, with traces of tears still visible.<br /> "Amanda, how is it?" A middle-aged gent anxiously asked her.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family who had rushed back also focused their attention on her.<br /> "Mr. Phillips said that there's little hope of recovery. He could only use acupuncture to wake grandfather for half an hour. When grandfather wakes up, let's all go in and see if he has any final instructions."<br /> Everyone was shocked.<br /> "How could this be?"<br /> "Is Mr. Phillips also helpless?"<br /> The members of the Kingsley family found it hard to accept this reality, especially since Quinn had always treated his juniors well.<br /> The thought of Quinn departing saddened some, and tears silently fell.<br /> Publicly, Quinn's status was the foundation of the Kingsley family's prominence in Yeadeo.<br /> If Quinn were to pass away, the Kingsley family would undoubtedly decline.<br /> The atmosphere within the Kingsley family was somber.<br /> Amanda looked at her family members, opened her mouth, but said nothing, silently turning back into the room.<br /> "Stop crying," A middle-aged gent said sternly, "Dad wouldn't want to see you all in tears. If he's really leaving, we mustn't let him worry about us. Pull yourselves together."<br /> After these words, the middle-aged gent also entered the room.<br /> The younger members of the Kingsley family wiped their tears vigorously, trying to force smiles, but in truth, they looked better at crying than pretending to be happy.<br /> Mia's spirit plummeted as she realized the gravity of the situation. Even if an ordinary person passed away from consuming health supplements, it spelled big trouble for those who sold them. And when the deceased happened to be Quinn, the stakes were even higher.<br /> She understood that it would be difficult for this branch to stay in Yeadeo, and even the headquarters might face repercussions.<br /> "Let's go in and have a look." Wesley glanced at Mia. "There might still be a chance."<br /> "Ah..." Mia stared at Wesley in surprise. Seeing him already heading towards the room, she quickly followed suit.<br /> Inside the room, the members of the Kingsley family stood around the mattress, maintaining a certain distance.<br /> Scott lit the alcohol lamp and took out the needles, his expression solemn.<br /> He looked at the members of the Kingsley family. "Think about what you want to say to Mr. Kingsley later. Once you're ready, let me know, and then I'll proceed with the acupuncture."<br /> As he said this, tears welled up in many eyes.<br /> "If you don't mind, let me take a look. I have a way." Wesley spoke up, drawing everyone's attention.<br /> Amanda's face darkened. "Who let you in? Get out!"<br /> "Mia, have you lost your mind? Tricked by this trash and actually brought him here as a miracle healer. Get out with him! I'll settle the score with you in a couple of days."<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, at a loss for words.<br /> "Even Mr. Phillips is unable to reverse the situation. What use are you? Get out." Another younger member of the Kingsley family angrily rebuked.<br /> The middle-aged gent added, "We're in no mood right now. You better leave immediately."<br /> "I understand your narrow-mindedness," Wesley continued, "But as a healer, once I see a patient, I cannot stand by and watch him draw his last breath."<br /> "Wesley, you're quite the charlatan. Do you really want to be gone right now?" Amanda's voice was filled with anger.<br /> "Amanda, let me say a few words," Scott interjected, and Amanda fell silent.<br /> Looking at Wesley, Scott began. "Young lad, at my age, I've seen a lot and have a broad perspective. Today, however, I find it hard to remain indifferent. I practiced medicine from the age of sixteen until I stopped seeing patients for a total of seventy years."<br /> "I've saved countless patients from various illnesses. I never easily declare a patient's fate, nor do I believe I have the right to do so."<br /> "But from your recent remarks, it seems like you're accusing me of such actions. Young people wanting to make a name for themselves by stepping on the shoulders of their predecessors, I can understand."<br /> "But this kind of behavior displeases me."<br /> "My displeasure, what does it mean to you? Do you understand?"<br /> "Even if you are a healer, your career will be ruined because of this."<br /> Chapter 6 <br /> In the face of Scott's veiled threats, Wesley simply smiled and brushed them off.<br /> Looking at Scott, he asked, "I've always focused on the issue at hand rather than attacking individuals. I have a few questions for you. If you can't administer the needles, how long do you think Quinn can hold on?"<br /> "Seven days, but he will remain unconscious," Scott replied bluntly.<br /> "Then let me ask you this, is there anyone in the world with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "Outrageous," Amanda coldly interjected, "Mr. Phillips is unparalleled in his medical expertise."<br /> Scott glanced at Amanda. "Amanda, let me handle this question."<br /> Continuing to address Wesley, he said, "I don't underestimate myself, nor do I overestimate. There are countless talented individuals in the world, like stars in the sky. I may not dare claim to be the best in medical skills, but those who surpass me are few."<br /> "That means there are some," Wesley calmly remarked, causing Scott's expression to shift slightly, "Indeed, there are."<br /> "Then let me ask you this. Do you think within seven days, the Kingsley family won't find someone with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "If they do find someone, do you believe there is an illness that you cannot cure, but this person can?"<br /> Wesley's questions were sharp and resounding.<br /> Scott's face changed once more as he was rendered speechless.<br /> "Even if there is, that person will never be you." Amanda's face turned icy. "Now get out. Don't spout your eloquence here. Your deceitful behavior is repulsive."<br /> "Your understanding of me is merely hearsay, isn't it?" Wesley retorted, his gaze mocking Amanda, "Has your background and education taught you such arrogance and prejudice?"<br /> "Arrogance?" Amanda's face grew colder as she disdainfully looked at Wesley. "Prejudice?<br /> "Did I say something wrong just now? You are nothing but stagnant waste, a parasite living off others. If it weren't for Taylor, you would have starved on the streets long ago."<br /> "Relying on sweet words, deceiving Taylor. She, with her kind heart, can't bear to divorce you, but don't push your luck. If it weren't for Taylor's sake, you would have been sent out long ago."<br /> Scott interrupted Amanda, "Amanda, although I find this lad a bit annoying, what he said does hold some truth. There are indeed individuals with better medical skills than me. Your grandfather can hold on for seven days. Try reaching out to see if someone can come over. I'll help you make connections."<br /> "If it really doesn't work out after seven days, I'll administer the needles to your grandfather. However, at that point, I can only buy you three minutes."<br /> As soon as Scott spoke, the faces of the Kingsley family members grew even more solemn. True healers were rare and not easily summoned.<br /> While the Kingsley family had connections in Yeadeo, their influence waned outside of it.<br /> "Mr. Phillips, please administer the needles. Life has its ups and downs, and we understand that. Just buy my father a bit more time." The middle-aged gent spoke up.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family nodded in agreement.<br /> Amanda looked at Scott. "Mr. Phillips, please."<br /> "In that case, please have everyone unrelated leave. I need silence," Scott calmly stated.<br /> Amanda glared at Wesley, her eyes speaking volumes without a word.<br /> The unrelated individuals were, naturally, Wesley and Mia.<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, intending to leave, but she suddenly hesitated.<br /> Instead of leaving, Wesley moved forward.<br /> "What are you doing?" A young member of the Kingsley family stepped forward with a stern expression, pushing Wesley.<br /> In one swift motion, Wesley executed a clean shoulder throw, toppling the young gent to the ground, his own expression turning cold.<br /> "A bunch of fools! If it weren't for my teacher's teachings about not turning a blind eye to those in need, I wouldn't bother with you ignorant lot," Wesley remarked with disdain.<br /> As Wesley effortlessly took down one individual from the Kingsley family, the others seemed slow to react.<br /> By the time they realized what was happening, Wesley had already picked up the needle next to Scott and casually flicked his wrist.<br /> The needle flew out of his hand, piercing Quinn's temple, followed by a second needle, a third needle, and so on.<br /> "What are you doing? Stop!" Amanda's voice rose in urgency, echoed by the rest of the Kingsley family members who rushed forward to restrain Wesley.<br /> "Stay back, everyone. Wait." Scott suddenly stood up, blocking the others. "Let him try."<br /> Amanda and the others were left dumbfounded, thinking, "What does this mean?"<br /> Despite their confusion, they heeded Scott's words.<br /> After Scott stopped the members of the Kingsley family, he fixed his gaze on Wesley.<br /> Wesley proceeded to use eighteen needles in succession, symbolizing the levels of pain.<br /> Even if someone had descended into the depths of hell, they must be brought back.<br /> The final needle, also piercing a vital point, caused Quinn's body to tremble suddenly, resonating with the previous eighteen needles.<br /> Scott's eyes widened, his body trembling slightly. His reaction left Amanda and the others even more puzzled, but none dared to interrupt.<br /> Moments later, Wesley placed a palm on Quinn's chest, causing all eighteen needles to be shaken off. When all the needles landed on the ground, the part of the skin where the needles had pierced turned dark.<br /> Wesley then dragged Quinn to the edge of the mattress, flipped him over with his head facing downwards, and gave him a firm pat on the back.<br /> Quinn spat out a mouthful of black liquid. When Wesley flipped him back to lie flat, his complexion had regained some color.<br /> "The Hand of Darkness... It's the Hand of Darkness!" Scott exclaimed with excitement, his body quivering, "It's the Hand that descends into the dark world, snatching people from the hands of the Evil!"<br /> "You do have some knowledge, recognizing the Hand of Darkness." Wesley glanced at Scott.<br /> Scott's gaze towards Wesley had undergone a drastic change. He respectfully clasped his hands together.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thirty years ago, I had the honor of attending a teaching conference held by Mr. Vanderbilt. I saw the Hand of Darkness, but my limited aptitude only allowed me to grasp the basics."<br /> "I have been blind and ignorant. I apologize for my earlier offenses. Please forgive me, Mr. Harrington."<br /> The Mr. Vanderbilt Scott referred to was Wesley's teacher, Ulysses Vanderbilt. He generously imparted his skills to others, but the ability to learn depended on one's innate talent.<br /> In this world, few could learn Ulysses' skills.<br /> Scott had been fortunate to receive guidance from Ulysses, which had elevated his medical skills. However, the Hand of Darkness, a miraculous ability, was beyond his comprehension.<br /> Wesley smiled faintly, "Your actions earlier are understandable. I appreciate your words."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you must be an exceptional disciple of Mr. Vanderbilt, possessing unparalleled magnanimity. Impressive," Scott continued.<br /> "Enough with the flattery at your age."<br /> "You are mistaken, Mr. Harrington. Every word I speak is sincere."<br /> Mia, Amanda, and the others stood bewildered by the unfolding situation.<br /> "Mr. Phillips... he... he..." Amanda's words faltered.<br /> Scott turned to the members of the Kingsley family. "Meeting Mr. Harrington was Quinn's luck. His symptoms have been cured by Mr. Harrington. With a few days of rest, he will be fine."<br /> The waste Taylor had previously said was called Mr. Harrington by Scott!<br /> Recalling their previous attitudes, Amanda hurriedly apologized, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> The members of the Kingsley family all apologized in unison, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> Chapter 7 <br /> With a faint smile, Wesley remarked, "As family members of a patient, your actions earlier are understandable. There's no need for such formality."<br /> Amanda's perplexity deepened as she thought, "Where is the cowardly waste that Taylor described? This display of magnanimity and breadth is far from it."<br /> Mia, too, felt a shiver of realization, thinking, "No wonder Dad has insisted on my proximity to Wesley.<br /> This guy..."<br /> She gazed at Wesley, her curiosity piqued, a sense of exploration stirring within her.<br /> "Mia has brought you here, Mr. Harrington, to cure my grandfather. The Kingsley family will never forget this act. However, considering that my grandfather's ailment stemmed from the health supplements produced by the Vinver Business Alliance, we will be conducting an investigation into it."<br /> Amanda continued, looking at Wesley, "What do you think... of this approach?"<br /> It was Mia who had invited Wesley, so Amanda had grown wiser, refraining from asking for a direct punishment of the Vinver Business Alliance.<br /> As Mia heard Amanda's words, her heart skipped a beat, realizing trouble was brewing.<br /> "On the way here, Ms. Roberts briefed me on the situation. You conducted experiments on mice, correct?"<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes, the health supplements we received were exclusively provided by the Roberts family. There were no similar cases on the market, so we used mice for testing.<br /> "All the mice that ingested this supplement were gone."<br /> She looked at Mia and added, her voice turning colder, "Before the experiment, I specifically contacted Mia to inquire about the testing methods during the development phase, which involved mice.<br /> "There have been individuals eyeing my grandfather's position, some even wishing for his demise. I never imagined that the Vinver Business Alliance, which I attracted for investment, would become a weapon in someone else's hands."<br /> "Do you have any of the remaining medicine?" Wesley inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes."<br /> "Bring some over."<br /> Immediately, someone fetched the medicine. After it was brought to him, Wesley took out a supplement and swallowed it directly.<br /> This scene left Amanda and the others dumbfounded.<br /> Scott, too, was bewildered. "Mr. Harrington, what are you doing?"<br /> Wesley smiled, "Just proving that this medicine is not toxic."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thank you," Mia thanked sincerely, feeling like crying at that moment.<br /> Amanda, with a puzzled expression, looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, are you suggesting that my grandfather's condition wasn't caused by the Vinver Business Alliance's medicine? What about the mice?"<br /> The rest were equally puzzled.<br /> "Yes, but not entirely," Wesley said, leaving everyone even more bewildered.<br /> Mia's emotions were like a rollercoaster ride, from relief to immediate tension.<br /> "This medicine itself is not toxic, but when taken with another substance made from a certain plant, it results in Quinn's condition. The mice would die immediately, while humans could endure a few more days."<br /> Wesley continued to explain, "The plant used in this concoction is originally meant for crafting slow-acting toxins, not for human consumption."<br /> Looking at Amanda, Wesley said, "During this period, whoever had access to your grandfather and the mice will better understand why these events occurred."<br /> The gaze of members of the Kingsley family immediately focused on a lady.<br /> Amanda, somewhat incredulous, looked at her. "Can you offer an explanation?"<br /> The lady was the wife of Amanda's deceased brother. She found it hard to accept, as did the rest of the Kingsley family.<br /> This lady had been named the exemplary lady who served her family well this year, not due to her connection with the Kingsley family but because she genuinely deserved it.<br /> "What do you mean? Amanda, what explanation do you want from me?"<br /> The lady stared at Amanda. "Am I the only one who had access to Grandfather and the mice? You, and you... and you, who didn't have access?"<br /> "You all claim to treat me as family. Since I married into the Kingsley family, I have worked diligently, contributing my share even if not acknowledged."<br /> "Amanda, it has been over a year since your brother passed, and I never once considered remarrying. Now, just because of his words, you demand an explanation from me?"<br /> Pointing at Wesley, the lady questioned, "Just because he accuses me of poisoning, you suspect me? Tell me, did I poison him?" The lady glared at Wesley.<br /> "I am merely analyzing the facts. As for concluding this case, it's not within my purview," Wesley addressed the members of the Kingsley family, saying, "You should conduct a thorough investigation into this matter.<br /> "I will write a prescription. Have Quinn take it on time, and he will recover in seven days."<br /> Amanda hurried to fetch paper and pen while Wesley prepared the prescription. Once done, he was ready to leave.<br /> Amanda said hurriedly, "Mr. Harrington, I've already made arrangements for lunch."<br /> "No need," Wesley smiled.<br /> The Kingsley family sought to build closer ties with Wesley, given his extraordinary medical skills. Wesley was well aware of this.<br /> Looking at Amanda and the others, Wesley remarked, "In the future, if you encounter any difficult medical cases that others cannot solve, seek me out. Remember, cases others cannot solve."<br /> The gaze of the Kingsley family members toward Wesley changed once again. Many renowned healers had eccentric personalities and were difficult to engage.<br /> They hadn't expected Wesley to possess such remarkable medical skills without any airs.<br /> As Wesley prepared to depart, the members of the Kingsley family did not dare to insist on his stay, so they accompanied him outside.<br /> "Oh, how could we forget such an important matter? Amanda, what about the consultation fee?" The middle-aged gent inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the oversight. Please wait a moment." Amanda hurried back inside and soon returned with a bank card in hand.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, there's one million dollars in here."<br /> Without hesitation, Wesley accepted the bank card and boarded Mia's car.<br /> During the journey, Mia boldly looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, you've helped me immensely. Can I treat you to a meal? Don't decline in a hurry. It's not a fancy restaurant, but it will leave you wanting more. It's a small place on the street, with only eight plates of noodles served each day, each plate containing different ingredients.<br /> "I managed to secure a reservation. Are you interested?"<br /> Wesley thought, "Eight Plates of Noodles? Ah, Aaron's restaurant. It has been a while since I visited those old friends."<br /> Wesley nodded. "Let's go then."<br /> The restaurant, Eight Plates of Noodles, was located on Chanxold Street near the Yeadeo First Central Hospital.<br /> The establishment was small, serving only eight plates of noodles each day at a price of 10 thousand dollars each. Vernoic's television culinary program had specifically covered this incident.<br /> Reservations were a must to secure a plate.<br /> The restaurant's owner had a mysterious background. While the specifics were unknown, a high-ranking noble from the capital of Vernoic, Kingsland, had caused a scene there once.<br /> He had attempted to force his way in without a reservation. Although this incident hadn't been reported, rumors suggested that a garbage truck had to be called to dispose of the intruder's remains, as he was too shattered to be removed by conventional means.<br /> Since then, no one dared to cause trouble.<br /> On their way, Mia introduced Wesley to the background story.<br /> "Mr. Turner, two plates of noodles." Mia called out once they arrived.<br /> Aaron Turner didn't respond but visibly paused upon seeing Wesley beside Mia.<br /> A faint smile appeared on his usually stoic face. Though the flesh on the face seemed stiff, it was indeed a smile. "Coming right up."<br /> Mia glanced at Aaron with a hint of surprise, thinking, "When did he become so warm and enthusiastic? His tone seemed a bit agitated earlier, didn't it?"<br /> Soon enough, Aaron brought two plates of noodles to the table. One steaming hot and the other devoid of any warmth.<br /> As Mia observed Aaron placing the plate without steam in front of Wesley, her expression changed slightly.<br /> It was a plate of instant noodles having soaked in cold water, with the seasoning barely dissolved.<br /> She felt a sense of panic. Mia had wanted to leave a good impression on Wesley, which was why she had chosen this place.<br /> However, Aaron had served such a plate of noodles.<br /> She dared not question Aaron. The type of noodles served here was not determined by the guests but by Aaron's mood.<br /> "This girl named Mia is quite something, living up to her name, and quite kind-hearted," Aaron remarked, looking at Wesley.<br /> "Get lost," Wesley retorted, using his fork to pick up the noodles and devouring them.<br /> Mia's face turned pale instantly. Disrespecting Aaron was akin to risking Wesley's life.<br /> To her astonishment, Aaron chuckled, tears welling up in his eyes.<br /> He wiped them away. "Alright, I'll leave you to your meal."<br /> Before departing, he gave Mia a thumbs-up. "Seize the opportunity."<br /> The eight plates of noodles symbolized the eight comrades who had faced life and life-threatening situations together.<br /> Wesley ate voraciously. Initially, they had only one pack of instant noodles to share among the eight of them, forcing them to divide it.<br /> Despite the circumstances, they devoured the noodles joyfully.<br /> Aaron had promised that once they survived, each one would have the most delicious plate of noodles.<br /> However, five of the eight had perished.<br /> Wesley had come dangerously close to life-threatening situations, but managed to cling to life.<br /> For him, the plate of noodles was not food but the bond of friendship that had shielded him from harm.<br /> "Do you... know each other?" Mia couldn't help but ask, her voice low and curious.<br /> "Some things are better left unknown," Wesley replied.<br /> Mia nodded in understanding, falling silent as they continued eating noodles. She couldn't help stealing glances at Wesley throughout the meal.<br /> This gent had piqued her curiosity even more.<br /> "Wesley, I see. No wonder you agreed to the divorce so readily. You've already found someone else outside."<br /> A sharp voice interrupted their meal.<br /> Taylor approached with a cold expression, accompanied by Henry. | Adoread Romance story | 106 | https://facebook.com/61557113391558 | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1713250800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846730 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446608 | 1735168083 | 890 | 1089349355679698 | 1 | 7.3000301262745E+14 | 1714114800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 235254296344339 | 0 | Adoread Romance story | 120207848352050113 | play.google.com | Install now | NONE | video | HOT BOOK✨Tap the button to read more👉 | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.adoread.book | 1713261149 | 2.3525429634434E+14 | Adoread Romance story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438099846_464239392624112_2876552204437209724_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vX3znNT4NzYQ7kNvgH2lv6E&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBncS304UU5eWhTkkYW9w5NZ9cVmnHXSJI-ytUHMvg7HQ&oe=6664131B | person_profile | 0 | Adoread Romance story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438087354_987722659633325_4617979304154121770_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qtW3NiPjYOYQ7kNvgEWzNoE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDFWUgIxxvWy8DLC36CUitBdIcMXrtNvQAQZl-rgjCjlw&oe=6663F7C2 | 0 | 3 | Chapter 1 <br /> "Wesley, are you trying to harm me? You useless piece of trash, can't even make a decent cup of coffee, can you?"<br /> Madison Blair lifted her coffee cup and splashed it directly onto Wesley Harrington's face.<br /> "What are you looking at, you spineless waste? Your name sounds so lofty? I might as well call you a waste."<br /> Glancing at the grotesque expression of his wife's mother, Wesley pulled out his phone to check the time.<br /> Exactly twelve o'clock. It had been five full years since he married Taylor Reed.<br /> The appointed time had come.<br /> He had fulfilled his promise, safeguarding the Reed family for five years, transforming them from a family living off fishing to one perceived as affluent by the common folk.<br /> Wiping the coffee off his face, he turned and walked away.<br /> "Where do you think you're going? Go fetch some more coffee," Madison shouted.<br /> "Madison, didn't you say this waste is obedient at home, doing whatever he's told? I don't think he's taking it lying down."<br /> Madison grew angrier. "Wesley, you stop right there. My family has fed and housed you. If you dare disobey, I'll have you thrown out!"<br /> Ignoring her, Wesley continued downstairs.<br /> "When Taylor comes back, I'll immediately have you two divorced. Do you hear me? Stay right there," Madison threatened, "I'll let you know your place today."<br /> Grabbing a golf club, Madison swiftly charged towards Wesley.<br /> Seeing Wesley heading downstairs, she swung the club viciously at his back.<br /> Without turning back, Wesley gently sidestepped.<br /> Losing her balance, Madison tumbled forward, rolling down the stairs with a series of thumps.<br /> "Ouch... it hurts, it hurts so much!"<br /> As Madison reached the ground floor, she wailed in pain and her sister immediately rushed to her.<br /> "Wesley, what have you done? How dare you hit my sister!" Madison's sister hurried down, checking on Madison's condition.<br /> Wesley remained silent, observing the scene.<br /> "Quick, call Taylor. Tell her to come back. Today, she must divorce this waste." Madison glared at Wesley. "How dare you hit me? Not only will I let Taylor divorce you, but I'll make sure you leave in disgrace."<br /> "Mum, what's wrong?" At that moment, a gent and a lady walked in.<br /> The lady was Taylor, Madison's daughter.<br /> She ran towards Madison.<br /> As Madison pointed at Wesley, tears streamed down her face. "Taylor, he hit me, he hit me! When you're not home, he changes his attitude, scolding and hitting me in the slightest displeasure. He even pushed me down the stairs just now. Alexis can testify."<br /> Madison's sister, Alexis Blair, chimed in. "Yes, Wesley, this trash not only hit your mother but also threatened to hit me too. We cannot tolerate such trash."<br /> "Taylor, I have been telling you to divorce him for years. You've been supporting him, treating him like a Lord at home, but he's an ungrateful wolf in sheep's clothing."<br /> Helping Madison up, Taylor noticed the scrapes on Madison's arms and legs, her expression turning cold.<br /> "Wesley, why did you hit my mother? You better give me an explanation."<br /> Wesley looked at Taylor, his wife.<br /> Five years had passed, and she had never shown him kindness.<br /> Taylor dressed impeccably, a paragon of a successful lady, with a face that could be deemed angelic, yet whether her heart was as angelic remained a mystery.<br /> Her figure, too, left countless men yearning.<br /> For five years, Wesley had thought he might develop feelings for this lady, but in reality, it never happened.<br /> "There are surveillance cameras in the house," Wesley stated calmly before descending the stairs into the hallway.<br /> Despite residing in a three-story villa, Wesley's living quarters were confined to the stairwell.<br /> He harbored no resentment towards this arrangement. It was merely a promise. It was just that Taylor failed to appreciate him.<br /> This home held little value that he wished to cling onto.<br /> Retrieving a wooden box from beneath his pillow, Wesley extracted two documents. Casting a fleeting glance at the modest abode he had called home for five years, Wesley smiled faintly.<br /> He thought, "Finally... I'm free."<br /> Pushing the door ajar, Wesley was met by Taylor's piercing gaze. "I've reviewed the surveillance footage. Yes, my mother intended to strike you, but even if she did, what difference would it make?"<br /> "She's a lady. How much could her blows hurt you? Why did you dodge?"<br /> "If you hadn't dodged, my mother wouldn't have tumbled down." Wesley stared at Taylor, unable to comprehend her thought process.<br /> He had no interest in engaging in these arguments. Handing over the two documents to Taylor, he remarked, "The divorce agreement. I've already signed it. Take a look. I'm leaving with nothing."<br /> "With your current influence, there's no need for you to visit the city hall. Someone will handle it for you, right?"<br /> Madison was taken aback. She swiftly snatched the divorce agreement, flipping through it hastily.<br /> The contents were indeed straightforward. Both parties willingly divorced, with Wesley relinquishing all claims and having already signed.<br /> In an instant, Madison's pain seemed to dissipate. "Taylor, sign it quickly. Sign it."<br /> Taylor was still in a daze.<br /> She pondered.<br /> "A divorce agreement? Wesley has already prepared a divorce agreement. On what grounds?"<br /> "What gives him the right to initiate a divorce? All these years, he's done nothing at home, lacking any ambition. Always practicing martial arts, what right does he have to seek a divorce?"<br /> "If anyone should initiate it, it should be me. Moreover, now that I'm back to discussing this matter with him. Could it be that word got out, and Wesley, for the sake of his pride, rushed to prepare a divorce agreement first?"<br /> "It must be so, but... No!"<br /> "Wanting to leave with nothing, is he retreating to advance? As the chairman of the Reed Group, how could I be served with a divorce?"<br /> "Hey Wesley, I never expected this from you. Have I not treated you well enough? You seek a divorce, attempting to turn your retreat into advance, aiming to embarrass me?"<br /> Taylor glared at Wesley. "I'm telling you, it's impossible."<br /> Snatching the divorce agreement, she tore it to shreds.<br /> "Taylor, what are you doing? Such a great opportunity. Why not just sign it and let him leave?" Madison grew anxious.<br /> "Mom, I do intend to divorce this trash, but the decision must come from me. I returned specifically to address this matter."<br /> With that, Taylor produced two documents. "Wesley, remember that it's me who's divorcing you. It's me who no longer wants you. Initially, out of marital obligation, I had considered offering you some compensation. Now, you don't even need to think about it. Sign the divorce agreement and leave my home."<br /> Wesley offered a faint smile as he accepted the divorce agreement.<br /> "What are you laughing at?" Taylor demanded angrily.<br /> Wesley's smile seemed to mock her, fueling her rage.<br /> Ignoring her entirely, Wesley signed the document and handed it over.<br /> "What are you laughing at? Answer me! Who do you think you are?" Taylor roared once more.<br /> Wesley glanced at her before striding towards the exit.<br /> "Stop!" The gent who had accompanied Taylor stepped forward, blocking Wesley's path. "Taylor asked you a question, and... Your previous attitude displeased me. Apologize to Taylor, or I'll have you leave in disgrace!"<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 <br /> "Yes, let him leave in disgrace. He thought he could just hit me and walk away so easily," Madison joined in the commotion, also noticing the gent blocking Wesley's path.<br /> Madison had a keen interest in luxury goods, having frequented various high-end establishments over the years as the Reed family's living conditions improved. The gent was wearing an expensive watch and dressed head to toe in high-end luxury brands.<br /> Seeing Madison's gaze, the gent spoke. "Rest assured, today Wesley must pay the price."<br /> The gent introduced himself, looking at Wesley, "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Henry Clark, the eldest son of the Clark family and the general manager of the Clark Group in the North District."<br /> "From now on, I will accompany Taylor on her journey of life, and I will not allow anyone to bully her."<br /> "My identity carries weight. You should understand that. Now, apologize to Taylor. Apologize! Did you hear me? Apologize!"<br /> Madison's eyes lit up. She hadn't expected the gent before her to hold such a high status. She continued to shout, "Did you hear that? Taylor will be with Mr. Clark from now on. Apologize now."<br /> Wesley glanced at Henry, then at Taylor. He thought, "Have they been together all along?" Wesley had wanted to ask but decided against it because there was no need. He simply gave them a glance and continued walking towards the exit.<br /> "Are you ignoring me?" Henry's face turned cold as he reached out to grab Wesley. Henry's hand froze mid-air as he received a solid hit.<br /> "Until I sign the divorce papers, Taylor and I are still wife and husband. I don't care to investigate whether you two had any intimate relationship during that time, but don't provoke me, or I won't hesitate to make you regret it." Wesley's gaze was icy, and as Henry met his eyes, he felt a twinge of fear and swallowed his words.<br /> Taylor was also stunned. She knew exactly what Wesley had been like over the past five years. There were many surveillance cameras in the house, and she would often check them.<br /> Even when Taylor wasn't home, despite how her family treated Wesley, he always obeyed without complaint, especially towards her. He had never raised his voice, no matter how they treated him.<br /> Today, not only did Wesley dodge when her mother struck, but he also initiated the divorce and now even struck Henry. <br /> Taylor was at a loss for words, thinking, "How could this cowardly gent dare? On what grounds does he dare?"<br /> This change was difficult for Taylor to accept as if she didn't truly understand this guy. The gent who used to be obedient to her, completely submissive, now revealed this side of himself. She watched Wesley walk away in a daze, feeling a strange discomfort in her heart.<br /> "Isn't he leaving with nothing?" Alexis pointed at the wooden box Wesley was holding. "What is he taking with him?"<br /> Madison also realized. Over the past five years, Wesley had always treasured this wooden box, carrying it with him wherever he went. She thought there must be something valuable inside.<br /> Realizing this, Madison hurriedly followed. "Wesley, stop right there, leave the wooden box."<br /> Wesley paused, glanced at Madison, and said, "This is my personal belonging."<br /> "Nonsense, what personal belonging could you possibly have after marrying into the Reed family? Everything you've eaten, worn, and lived in over the years has been provided by the Reed family. Put it down."<br /> As she spoke, Madison reached out to grab the wooden box.<br /> "Ah..." A scream rang out as Madison quickly retracted her hand, a gash appearing on her palm, a crimson liquid dripping.<br /> The wooden box was now stained with the same crimson liquid, trembling lightly in Wesley's hand.<br /> "It's not the right time yet, the day you thirst for this crimson liquid will come," Wesley murmured softly, patting the box before turning to continue his stride towards the exit.<br /> "Monster! A monster!" Madison screamed, causing Taylor and the others to rush out. Seeing the wound in Madison's hand, Taylor was filled with rage.<br /> "Wesley, aren't you going to say something?" Wesley halted once more, contemplating before meeting Taylor's gaze.<br /> "Just stay out of my way from now on. Consider this a warning to you."<br /> "Taylor, that wooden box of his has a mechanism. It must hold something valuable! We can't let him take it with him," Madison, enduring the pain, reminded them.<br /> "Mom, your injury is important. We'll deal with him later. Let me take you to the hospital first." Taylor comforted Madison before calling out to the retreating Wesley.<br /> "Our marriage is over! Yet, you dared to hurt my mother! This won't be the end of it! I will make you regret it!" Ignoring her, Wesley continued walking out.<br /> "Rest assured, I promise he won't see the light of day tomorrow." Henry stepped forward to console. "Let's focus on getting your wound treated first."<br /> "I want him to regret ever existing in this world, to apologize to me in repentance," Madison roared.<br /> "Mom, trust me, I will make him do just that." Taylor looked at Madison with a mix of pity and determination. "Let's go to the hospital first."<br /> In the villa area, Wesley halted, his voice cold. "Get out."<br /> An elderly gent leaped down from a tree, appearing to be in his seventies, yet landing silently from a height of around ten feet.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, your father wants you to come home and take charge."<br /> "He stopped being my father five years ago. He's my enemy."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you misunderstood your father. He had his reasons back then. I swear in my life, once you know the truth, you will forgive him."<br /> "Huh!" Wesley smirked coldly, saying, "I nearly passed away back then. Is that also a misunderstanding?"<br /> The old gent pleaded, "Mr. Harrington, this situation is truly not as you perceive it."<br /> Wesley didn't engage further with the old guy. The events of that year were etched in his memory forever. He was the one who had been abandoned. If not for that incident, why would he have stayed with the Reed family for five years?<br /> Watching Wesley walk away, the old gent had tears silently streaming down his face. "Mr. Harrington, I truly... I truly can't bring myself to speak the truth, but you have misunderstood your father. He also bears burdens and endures pains beyond what an ordinary person can handle."<br /> As Wesley's figure disappeared, the old gent stood up, hesitated for a moment, then dialed a number on his phone.<br /> "Mr. Harrington is now divorced. I've given you the news firsthand. If your daughter is truly together with Mr. Harrington, you must fulfill the promise and let her persuade Mr. Harrington to come home."<br /> After hanging up, a middle-aged gent in a luxurious estate jumped up excitedly. Calming himself, he immediately made another call. "My dear, you're at Yeadeo, right?<br /> "Go find Wesley now. Don't mention the engagement for now. Use every means to get close to him, make him fall in love with you."<br /> "Dad, I don't have time."<br /> "No matter what you are busy with, you must go find Wesley now. No matter what reason you approach him, you must leave a good impression the first time."<br /> "Dad, I'm in trouble right now. If I don't handle it well, I might be good as gone. I have to deal with it immediately. I'm hanging up."<br /> Chapter 3 <br /> The middle-aged gent's voice lowered significantly. "Is there a big incident happening? You didn't tell me? What happened?"<br /> "Quinn Kingsley from Yeadeo, Mr. Kingsley, used our product and now has one foot on the grave. If something really happens to him..."<br /> "You mean Quinn, the uncontested leader of Yeadeo?"<br /> "Yes."<br /> "In that case, you should go find Wesley. Trust me, in this world, there is no problem that Wesley can't solve. As long as he's willing to help, you'll be fine. Listen to me, go find Wesley immediately."<br /> The lady fell silent for a moment before saying, "Okay."<br /> At Yeadeo Harbor, a gent with a large flaxen chain and a watch, sporting a crew cut, hurriedly disembarked, accompanied by a dozen gentlemen.<br /> "Mr. Reed, wherever that trash is, we will find him and tear him apart."<br /> "Yes, that guy dared to harm your mother. We'll make sure he pays for it."<br /> Frank Reed's face turned cold. "Wesley, you coward, thinking you can overturn the world? How dare you touch my mom? Just wait until I find you, you're finished."<br /> "We've found him. Wesley got into a taxi, and our boys followed him."<br /> "Let's go!" Frank waved his hand, leading dozens of men who boarded the car with harpoons, steel pipes, and other weapons.<br /> Inside the taxi, Wesley gazed at the scenery outside, feeling a strange sense of tranquility.<br /> He thought to himself, "I never imagined that while I was secretly paving the way for the Reed family, Taylor, after progressing so rapidly, would start looking down on me more and more."<br /> "Those ladies who know my true identity, which one of them isn't trying to throw themselves at me? Ladies like that don't interest me."<br /> "Being an ordinary gent is truly difficult," Wesley murmured, smiling faintly and deciding not to dwell on these matters anymore. He had important things to attend to and no time to waste on personal affairs.<br /> "Young lad, are you going to Feidgeuo Manor for a job interview?" The driver, curious about Wesley's destination, inquired.<br /> Feidgeuo Manor was Yeadeo's most mysterious private area. Originally a villa area, it was bought at a huge cost five years ago and completely renovated. It was said to have cost a trillion dollars. The former villa area was now Feidgeuo Manor.<br /> "That's my home," Wesley replied nonchalantly.<br /> The driver was taken aback by this revelation, silently cursing Wesley for bragging. After a couple of minutes, the driver regained his composure. "It seems like you and I both prefer to keep a low profile. My car usually gathers dust at home, so I occasionally drive a taxi to experience life."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "My car has been driven by my assistant for the past few years, so it's not gathering dust."<br /> "Haha..." The driver laughed. "We should get together sometime and see whose car is more impressive."<br /> "Sure, whenever we have the time."<br /> As they chatted, the vehicle soon arrived near Feidgeuo Manor, where the massive head of the Feidgeuo Peak protruded, creating a unique landscape in Yeadeo.<br /> The driver asked with a smile, "Since you're the owner here, it's fine if I drive in, right?"<br /> "Of course," Wesley replied.<br /> As soon as Wesley spoke, several cars caught up from behind.<br /> The cars surrounded the one Wesley was in, with the front vehicles braking to force the car to a stop.<br /> When numerous people descended from cars wielding harpoons and steel pipes, the driver's face paled.<br /> Frank and his group got out of the cars, instantly closing in, and without hesitation, started attacking, the steel pipes and harpoons thudding against the car.<br /> Frank's henchman yanked open the door of Wesley's car, poised to stab Wesley with a harpoon, but Wesley swiftly exited the vehicle.<br /> With a firm step on the ground, he launched a swift hit.<br /> A muffled sound echoed as the henchman was hit away.<br /> "What are you looking at?" Frank noticed his henchmen were all staring at him. "All of you, attack together and take him down!"<br /> As he commanded, the henchmen Frank brought with him surged forward.<br /> The taxi driver, trembling, took out his phone to call the police, but Frank glared at him. "I am Frank Reed from Yeadeo Harbor. If you dare, go ahead and make that call."<br /> Frank, leveraging his sister Taylor's status, had been causing trouble in Yeadeo Harbor, and no one dared to provoke him.<br /> Upon hearing Frank's name, the driver hastily put away his phone. "Mr. Reed, I'll just check the time, you guys continue."<br /> "Huh!" Frank snorted coldly, casting his gaze towards the surrounded Wesley.<br /> The sounds of thuds continued to ring out incessantly. Because Wesley was completely surrounded, Frank was unable to see the situation inside clearly, but he could imagine it. After all, in Frank's mind, the henchmen under his command were not to be trifled with.<br /> "Hit him hard for me!"<br /> Another muffled sound and a figure flew out. At that moment, Frank finally saw the situation clearly, and his face turned pale.<br /> Frank knew that Wesley liked to practice martial arts, but he had never expected Wesley to be this skilled. It wasn't Wesley who had been beaten, but his own men by Wesley alone.<br /> Frantically, Frank turned and ran to retrieve a crossbow from the car.<br /> "Clear the way." Frank bellowed, aiming the crossbow at Wesley.<br /> "You scumbag, you think you can fight? Move one more time, and I'll end your life! Surrender!"<br /> Wesley, holding a wooden box, stared at Frank. Ignoring the crossbow in his hand, Wesley said, "Tell your henchmen to back off, or you'll all see the light from above!"<br /> "You're really good at pretending to be tough." Frank took two steps forward. "See the light? Move a muscle and see if I can end your life or not! If you don't have the guts, apologize now!"<br /> Wesley turned his head and looked at the approaching cars, with two expensive ones in the lead, two more in the rear, and another one in the middle.<br /> "Keep acting tough, and I'll put a hole in your head." Frank spoke while glancing at the five cars. "What, looking for help?"<br /> "Let me tell you, those who ride in these cars are not the kind of weaklings like you who rely on connections. With me here, in Yeadeo's social hierarchy, even those who ride in such cars wouldn't dare meddle in this matter. And let me make it clear, without my sister, you're nothing."<br /> <br /> Chapter 4<br /> As Frank's words faded, the five cars came to a halt.<br /> A bodyguard opened the door of the one in the middle, revealing a dazzling pair of shining shoes catching everyone's eye.<br /> The shining shoe encased a beautiful foot. Above, the skirt's hem was adorned with lace.<br /> Then, like a fairy stepping out of a painting, she appeared before everyone's eyes.<br /> The lady was beautiful!<br /> Frank was mesmerized. Ever since the Reed family rose to prominence, he had been surrounded by ladies, but compared to the elegant lady before him, they were worlds apart.<br /> It wasn't just a difference in appearance but an incomparable gap in demeanor.<br /> The lady descending from the Maybach seemed like a celestial being untouched by mortal affairs.<br /> The embodiment of a fairy in the mundane world.<br /> She simply stood there after getting out of the car, perfectly embodying what it meant to be graceful and elegant.<br /> The lady glanced at Wesley, then at Frank.<br /> Frank grinned, saying, "May I have the honor of knowing the name of this esteemed lady? I am Frank..."<br /> The lady spoke calmly. "Disrespect Mr. Harrington, and you're done for."<br /> Her bodyguards, unfazed by Frank's crossbow, swiftly overwhelmed him, sending him crashing to the ground.<br /> The henchmen who had come with Frank, previously defeated by Wesley, now scrambled to their feet and fled in all directions.<br /> Who would dare provoke someone who could afford such a car?<br /> "My sister is Taylor Reed, the chairperson of Reed Group," Frank shouted, clutching his head.<br /> Ignoring him, one of the bodyguards dragged him to the roadside grass while another used a belt to tighten around Frank's neck, exerting pressure.<br /> "Enough, a lesson is all that's needed." Wesley spoke calmly, and only when the lady gestured did the bodyguards release Frank.<br /> Frank lay there, already unconscious.<br /> Wesley turned to the lady. "Who are you?"<br /> "I am Mia Roberts, the general manager of Vinver Business Alliance's Yeadeo branch." She looked at Wesley and continued, "Mr. Harrington, my father mentioned that you have miraculous healing skills and earnestly requested your assistance. A generous reward awaits."<br /> Wesley furrowed his brow slightly, thinking, "There are indeed people who recognize my abilities and status, yet I've rarely intervened in the past five years. Today, shortly after I divorced Taylor, she is here. Whose arrangement is this?"<br /> "Mr. Harrington, my father also mentioned that you are benevolent and has raised the banner of compassion among healers, serving as a role model and benchmark for all in the medical field."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "You have a way with words. Tell me the specifics."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, please get in the car first. I will explain in detail on the way."<br /> The phrase "compassionate healer" held significant weight for Wesley, who had saved countless lives from the brink of death.<br /> Without further ado, he got into the car.<br /> Inside, after Mia brewed coffee for Wesley, she began. "Vinver Business Alliance has a wide range of business operations, and I mainly oversee the health supplement sector, which has seen some success in recent years.<br /> "Recently, Quinn Kingsley started using our medicines, and now there's an accident."<br /> As she spoke, Mia kept her gaze fixed on Wesley.<br /> Quinn, the undisputed leader of Yeadeo, was a figure of immense influence.<br /> Upon hearing this name, Wesley showed no particular reaction. "If the city's leader faces issues with your products, it is indeed a concern. Let's go and see."<br /> With just a sentence, Wesley leaned back in his seat, closing his eyes to rest.<br /> Mia was secretly alarmed, thinking, "He knows who Quinn is, yet he seems indifferent. Who is this Wesley, really? No wonder Dad has instructed me to find a way to win his favor." Mia's inner resistance toward Wesley quietly shifted.<br /> Wesley had piqued her curiosity.<br /> As the vehicle was moving, Wesley's phone rang.<br /> Wesley opened his eyes and took out his phone to see Taylor calling.<br /> Pressing the answer button, he asked, "What's the matter?"<br /> On the other end of the line, Taylor, driving towards Feidgeuo Manor, had a grim expression.<br /> She thought, "Has Wesley ever spoken to me in such a cold tone before? Is he really this heartless right after our divorce?"<br /> Already furious, she snapped. "Wesley, do you even consider yourself a human being?<br /> "Today, not only did you lay hands on my mother, but you also had someone attack my brother. Do you not remember our past at all?"<br /> Wesley calmly replied, "Do we have a past to remember?"<br /> "You truly are a heartless scumbag, just as my mother said. You are an ungrateful and vicious person I raised for five years. Even a pet would wag its tail at me!"<br /> Taylor wanted to continue her tirade, but the phone line had already turned busy.<br /> This only fueled her anger further.<br /> Just now, she had received a call from Frank's underlings, informing her that Wesley had sent people to attack Frank and even intended to end him.<br /> Taylor wanted to demand answers, but...<br /> As Taylor was clutching her fists, her gaze turned icy.<br /> After a moment, she picked up her phone again. "Wesley, you are so narrow-minded. You have no ambition. Any lady would steer clear of you."<br /> "Just because I dumped you, you are doing this on purpose to make me feel sick. Pretending to be aloof and seeking revenge? Do you even deserve it?"<br /> "In Yeadeo, squashing you would be as easy as squashing an ant. You're asking for it! If anything happens to my brother, I will make you wish you were ending!"<br /> Her furious voice message echoed in the car.<br /> Wesley chuckled and put away his phone.<br /> Beside him, Mia seemed contemplative. Before coming, she had already ordered a swift investigation into Wesley.<br /> She was curious, thinking, "How could someone valued by my father could be the one 'marrying into' the Reed family."<br /> Being tactful, Mia chose not to ask and pretended not to have heard.<br /> After about forty minutes, they arrived at the Kingsley Manor.<br /> The Kingsley family members, upon seeing Mia alight from the car, all wore grim expressions.<br /> Mia greeted them with a smile, "Everyone, this is Wesley Harrington, Mr. Harrington, the miraculous healer I specially invited to treat Mr. Kingsley."<br /> "Him? The gent who married into the Reed family?"<br /> "A miraculous healer? Is he even worthy? Are healers so worthless now?"<br /> "A useless gent who mooches off of the Reed family? How dare he call himself a miraculous healer? Truly a joke among all jokes."<br /> Chapter 5<br /> <br /> Amanda Kingsley, Quinn's granddaughter, stared coldly at Wesley and Mia.<br /> This lady, dressed in a smart suit, also held significant fame in Yeadeo, overseeing the region's business activities, including investment attraction and various local business negotiations.<br /> Amanda had a favorable view of Taylor, who had risen swiftly in recent times, and they had interacted frequently.<br /> She was aware of Wesley's existence and had advised Taylor to part ways with him early on.<br /> But Amanda never imagined that Mia would bring someone like Wesley, a complete waste, and claim he was a miraculous healer.<br /> Glaring at Mia, she said, "Mia, once my grandfather is well, it's best for your Roberts family to leave Yeadeo."<br /> "As for you..." She glanced at Wesley. "I will advise Taylor to divorce you. You have deceived Taylor's feelings and now shamelessly made your way into my family. You are a despicable creature."<br /> After reprimanding Mia and Wesley, she turned to an elderly gent beside her, and her tone and attitude completely changed. "Mr. Phillips, sorry to trouble you. My grandfather is inside, please."<br /> Mia looked at the elderly gent, who was already in his twilight years, feeling deeply shocked.<br /> Scott Phillips, the 38th generation heir of the Healing Clinic, was now ninety-two years old.<br /> Renowned as a miraculous healer, he was a respected figure in the medical community of Yeadeo and even nationally.<br /> He no longer conducted consultations personally due to his old age. Mia had visited him specifically to pay her respects once she had arrived in Yeadeo but had not met Scott.<br /> She never expected Scott to appear in person. It was understandable, as Quinn held a prominent position in the city. Despite the profound influence of the Phillips family, they still had to show respect to Quinn.<br /> Mia looked at Wesley, feeling conflicted and thinking, "Dad has confidently claimed that Wesley has extraordinary abilities, but does he really?"<br /> She harbored doubts, but out of propriety, Mia spoke. "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the trouble."<br /> Wesley smiled, "It's fine. As long as the person can be healed."<br /> His open-mindedness impressed Mia.<br /> After about half an hour, Amanda emerged from the room. All eyes instantly turned towards her.<br /> It was evident that Amanda had wailed out, with traces of tears still visible.<br /> "Amanda, how is it?" A middle-aged gent anxiously asked her.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family who had rushed back also focused their attention on her.<br /> "Mr. Phillips said that there's little hope of recovery. He could only use acupuncture to wake grandfather for half an hour. When grandfather wakes up, let's all go in and see if he has any final instructions."<br /> Everyone was shocked.<br /> "How could this be?"<br /> "Is Mr. Phillips also helpless?"<br /> The members of the Kingsley family found it hard to accept this reality, especially since Quinn had always treated his juniors well.<br /> The thought of Quinn departing saddened some, and tears silently fell.<br /> Publicly, Quinn's status was the foundation of the Kingsley family's prominence in Yeadeo.<br /> If Quinn were to pass away, the Kingsley family would undoubtedly decline.<br /> The atmosphere within the Kingsley family was somber.<br /> Amanda looked at her family members, opened her mouth, but said nothing, silently turning back into the room.<br /> "Stop crying," A middle-aged gent said sternly, "Dad wouldn't want to see you all in tears. If he's really leaving, we mustn't let him worry about us. Pull yourselves together."<br /> After these words, the middle-aged gent also entered the room.<br /> The younger members of the Kingsley family wiped their tears vigorously, trying to force smiles, but in truth, they looked better at crying than pretending to be happy.<br /> Mia's spirit plummeted as she realized the gravity of the situation. Even if an ordinary person passed away from consuming health supplements, it spelled big trouble for those who sold them. And when the deceased happened to be Quinn, the stakes were even higher.<br /> She understood that it would be difficult for this branch to stay in Yeadeo, and even the headquarters might face repercussions.<br /> "Let's go in and have a look." Wesley glanced at Mia. "There might still be a chance."<br /> "Ah..." Mia stared at Wesley in surprise. Seeing him already heading towards the room, she quickly followed suit.<br /> Inside the room, the members of the Kingsley family stood around the mattress, maintaining a certain distance.<br /> Scott lit the alcohol lamp and took out the needles, his expression solemn.<br /> He looked at the members of the Kingsley family. "Think about what you want to say to Mr. Kingsley later. Once you're ready, let me know, and then I'll proceed with the acupuncture."<br /> As he said this, tears welled up in many eyes.<br /> "If you don't mind, let me take a look. I have a way." Wesley spoke up, drawing everyone's attention.<br /> Amanda's face darkened. "Who let you in? Get out!"<br /> "Mia, have you lost your mind? Tricked by this trash and actually brought him here as a miracle healer. Get out with him! I'll settle the score with you in a couple of days."<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, at a loss for words.<br /> "Even Mr. Phillips is unable to reverse the situation. What use are you? Get out." Another younger member of the Kingsley family angrily rebuked.<br /> The middle-aged gent added, "We're in no mood right now. You better leave immediately."<br /> "I understand your narrow-mindedness," Wesley continued, "But as a healer, once I see a patient, I cannot stand by and watch him draw his last breath."<br /> "Wesley, you're quite the charlatan. Do you really want to be gone right now?" Amanda's voice was filled with anger.<br /> "Amanda, let me say a few words," Scott interjected, and Amanda fell silent.<br /> Looking at Wesley, Scott began. "Young lad, at my age, I've seen a lot and have a broad perspective. Today, however, I find it hard to remain indifferent. I practiced medicine from the age of sixteen until I stopped seeing patients for a total of seventy years."<br /> "I've saved countless patients from various illnesses. I never easily declare a patient's fate, nor do I believe I have the right to do so."<br /> "But from your recent remarks, it seems like you're accusing me of such actions. Young people wanting to make a name for themselves by stepping on the shoulders of their predecessors, I can understand."<br /> "But this kind of behavior displeases me."<br /> "My displeasure, what does it mean to you? Do you understand?"<br /> "Even if you are a healer, your career will be ruined because of this."<br /> Chapter 6 <br /> In the face of Scott's veiled threats, Wesley simply smiled and brushed them off.<br /> Looking at Scott, he asked, "I've always focused on the issue at hand rather than attacking individuals. I have a few questions for you. If you can't administer the needles, how long do you think Quinn can hold on?"<br /> "Seven days, but he will remain unconscious," Scott replied bluntly.<br /> "Then let me ask you this, is there anyone in the world with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "Outrageous," Amanda coldly interjected, "Mr. Phillips is unparalleled in his medical expertise."<br /> Scott glanced at Amanda. "Amanda, let me handle this question."<br /> Continuing to address Wesley, he said, "I don't underestimate myself, nor do I overestimate. There are countless talented individuals in the world, like stars in the sky. I may not dare claim to be the best in medical skills, but those who surpass me are few."<br /> "That means there are some," Wesley calmly remarked, causing Scott's expression to shift slightly, "Indeed, there are."<br /> "Then let me ask you this. Do you think within seven days, the Kingsley family won't find someone with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "If they do find someone, do you believe there is an illness that you cannot cure, but this person can?"<br /> Wesley's questions were sharp and resounding.<br /> Scott's face changed once more as he was rendered speechless.<br /> "Even if there is, that person will never be you." Amanda's face turned icy. "Now get out. Don't spout your eloquence here. Your deceitful behavior is repulsive."<br /> "Your understanding of me is merely hearsay, isn't it?" Wesley retorted, his gaze mocking Amanda, "Has your background and education taught you such arrogance and prejudice?"<br /> "Arrogance?" Amanda's face grew colder as she disdainfully looked at Wesley. "Prejudice?<br /> "Did I say something wrong just now? You are nothing but stagnant waste, a parasite living off others. If it weren't for Taylor, you would have starved on the streets long ago."<br /> "Relying on sweet words, deceiving Taylor. She, with her kind heart, can't bear to divorce you, but don't push your luck. If it weren't for Taylor's sake, you would have been sent out long ago."<br /> Scott interrupted Amanda, "Amanda, although I find this lad a bit annoying, what he said does hold some truth. There are indeed individuals with better medical skills than me. Your grandfather can hold on for seven days. Try reaching out to see if someone can come over. I'll help you make connections."<br /> "If it really doesn't work out after seven days, I'll administer the needles to your grandfather. However, at that point, I can only buy you three minutes."<br /> As soon as Scott spoke, the faces of the Kingsley family members grew even more solemn. True healers were rare and not easily summoned.<br /> While the Kingsley family had connections in Yeadeo, their influence waned outside of it.<br /> "Mr. Phillips, please administer the needles. Life has its ups and downs, and we understand that. Just buy my father a bit more time." The middle-aged gent spoke up.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family nodded in agreement.<br /> Amanda looked at Scott. "Mr. Phillips, please."<br /> "In that case, please have everyone unrelated leave. I need silence," Scott calmly stated.<br /> Amanda glared at Wesley, her eyes speaking volumes without a word.<br /> The unrelated individuals were, naturally, Wesley and Mia.<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, intending to leave, but she suddenly hesitated.<br /> Instead of leaving, Wesley moved forward.<br /> "What are you doing?" A young member of the Kingsley family stepped forward with a stern expression, pushing Wesley.<br /> In one swift motion, Wesley executed a clean shoulder throw, toppling the young gent to the ground, his own expression turning cold.<br /> "A bunch of fools! If it weren't for my teacher's teachings about not turning a blind eye to those in need, I wouldn't bother with you ignorant lot," Wesley remarked with disdain.<br /> As Wesley effortlessly took down one individual from the Kingsley family, the others seemed slow to react.<br /> By the time they realized what was happening, Wesley had already picked up the needle next to Scott and casually flicked his wrist.<br /> The needle flew out of his hand, piercing Quinn's temple, followed by a second needle, a third needle, and so on.<br /> "What are you doing? Stop!" Amanda's voice rose in urgency, echoed by the rest of the Kingsley family members who rushed forward to restrain Wesley.<br /> "Stay back, everyone. Wait." Scott suddenly stood up, blocking the others. "Let him try."<br /> Amanda and the others were left dumbfounded, thinking, "What does this mean?"<br /> Despite their confusion, they heeded Scott's words.<br /> After Scott stopped the members of the Kingsley family, he fixed his gaze on Wesley.<br /> Wesley proceeded to use eighteen needles in succession, symbolizing the levels of pain.<br /> Even if someone had descended into the depths of hell, they must be brought back.<br /> The final needle, also piercing a vital point, caused Quinn's body to tremble suddenly, resonating with the previous eighteen needles.<br /> Scott's eyes widened, his body trembling slightly. His reaction left Amanda and the others even more puzzled, but none dared to interrupt.<br /> Moments later, Wesley placed a palm on Quinn's chest, causing all eighteen needles to be shaken off. When all the needles landed on the ground, the part of the skin where the needles had pierced turned dark.<br /> Wesley then dragged Quinn to the edge of the mattress, flipped him over with his head facing downwards, and gave him a firm pat on the back.<br /> Quinn spat out a mouthful of black liquid. When Wesley flipped him back to lie flat, his complexion had regained some color.<br /> "The Hand of Darkness... It's the Hand of Darkness!" Scott exclaimed with excitement, his body quivering, "It's the Hand that descends into the dark world, snatching people from the hands of the Evil!"<br /> "You do have some knowledge, recognizing the Hand of Darkness." Wesley glanced at Scott.<br /> Scott's gaze towards Wesley had undergone a drastic change. He respectfully clasped his hands together.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thirty years ago, I had the honor of attending a teaching conference held by Mr. Vanderbilt. I saw the Hand of Darkness, but my limited aptitude only allowed me to grasp the basics."<br /> "I have been blind and ignorant. I apologize for my earlier offenses. Please forgive me, Mr. Harrington."<br /> The Mr. Vanderbilt Scott referred to was Wesley's teacher, Ulysses Vanderbilt. He generously imparted his skills to others, but the ability to learn depended on one's innate talent.<br /> In this world, few could learn Ulysses' skills.<br /> Scott had been fortunate to receive guidance from Ulysses, which had elevated his medical skills. However, the Hand of Darkness, a miraculous ability, was beyond his comprehension.<br /> Wesley smiled faintly, "Your actions earlier are understandable. I appreciate your words."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you must be an exceptional disciple of Mr. Vanderbilt, possessing unparalleled magnanimity. Impressive," Scott continued.<br /> "Enough with the flattery at your age."<br /> "You are mistaken, Mr. Harrington. Every word I speak is sincere."<br /> Mia, Amanda, and the others stood bewildered by the unfolding situation.<br /> "Mr. Phillips... he... he..." Amanda's words faltered.<br /> Scott turned to the members of the Kingsley family. "Meeting Mr. Harrington was Quinn's luck. His symptoms have been cured by Mr. Harrington. With a few days of rest, he will be fine."<br /> The waste Taylor had previously said was called Mr. Harrington by Scott!<br /> Recalling their previous attitudes, Amanda hurriedly apologized, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> The members of the Kingsley family all apologized in unison, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> Chapter 7 <br /> With a faint smile, Wesley remarked, "As family members of a patient, your actions earlier are understandable. There's no need for such formality."<br /> Amanda's perplexity deepened as she thought, "Where is the cowardly waste that Taylor described? This display of magnanimity and breadth is far from it."<br /> Mia, too, felt a shiver of realization, thinking, "No wonder Dad has insisted on my proximity to Wesley.<br /> This guy..."<br /> She gazed at Wesley, her curiosity piqued, a sense of exploration stirring within her.<br /> "Mia has brought you here, Mr. Harrington, to cure my grandfather. The Kingsley family will never forget this act. However, considering that my grandfather's ailment stemmed from the health supplements produced by the Vinver Business Alliance, we will be conducting an investigation into it."<br /> Amanda continued, looking at Wesley, "What do you think... of this approach?"<br /> It was Mia who had invited Wesley, so Amanda had grown wiser, refraining from asking for a direct punishment of the Vinver Business Alliance.<br /> As Mia heard Amanda's words, her heart skipped a beat, realizing trouble was brewing.<br /> "On the way here, Ms. Roberts briefed me on the situation. You conducted experiments on mice, correct?"<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes, the health supplements we received were exclusively provided by the Roberts family. There were no similar cases on the market, so we used mice for testing.<br /> "All the mice that ingested this supplement were gone."<br /> She looked at Mia and added, her voice turning colder, "Before the experiment, I specifically contacted Mia to inquire about the testing methods during the development phase, which involved mice.<br /> "There have been individuals eyeing my grandfather's position, some even wishing for his demise. I never imagined that the Vinver Business Alliance, which I attracted for investment, would become a weapon in someone else's hands."<br /> "Do you have any of the remaining medicine?" Wesley inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes."<br /> "Bring some over."<br /> Immediately, someone fetched the medicine. After it was brought to him, Wesley took out a supplement and swallowed it directly.<br /> This scene left Amanda and the others dumbfounded.<br /> Scott, too, was bewildered. "Mr. Harrington, what are you doing?"<br /> Wesley smiled, "Just proving that this medicine is not toxic."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thank you," Mia thanked sincerely, feeling like crying at that moment.<br /> Amanda, with a puzzled expression, looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, are you suggesting that my grandfather's condition wasn't caused by the Vinver Business Alliance's medicine? What about the mice?"<br /> The rest were equally puzzled.<br /> "Yes, but not entirely," Wesley said, leaving everyone even more bewildered.<br /> Mia's emotions were like a rollercoaster ride, from relief to immediate tension.<br /> "This medicine itself is not toxic, but when taken with another substance made from a certain plant, it results in Quinn's condition. The mice would die immediately, while humans could endure a few more days."<br /> Wesley continued to explain, "The plant used in this concoction is originally meant for crafting slow-acting toxins, not for human consumption."<br /> Looking at Amanda, Wesley said, "During this period, whoever had access to your grandfather and the mice will better understand why these events occurred."<br /> The gaze of members of the Kingsley family immediately focused on a lady.<br /> Amanda, somewhat incredulous, looked at her. "Can you offer an explanation?"<br /> The lady was the wife of Amanda's deceased brother. She found it hard to accept, as did the rest of the Kingsley family.<br /> This lady had been named the exemplary lady who served her family well this year, not due to her connection with the Kingsley family but because she genuinely deserved it.<br /> "What do you mean? Amanda, what explanation do you want from me?"<br /> The lady stared at Amanda. "Am I the only one who had access to Grandfather and the mice? You, and you... and you, who didn't have access?"<br /> "You all claim to treat me as family. Since I married into the Kingsley family, I have worked diligently, contributing my share even if not acknowledged."<br /> "Amanda, it has been over a year since your brother passed, and I never once considered remarrying. Now, just because of his words, you demand an explanation from me?"<br /> Pointing at Wesley, the lady questioned, "Just because he accuses me of poisoning, you suspect me? Tell me, did I poison him?" The lady glared at Wesley.<br /> "I am merely analyzing the facts. As for concluding this case, it's not within my purview," Wesley addressed the members of the Kingsley family, saying, "You should conduct a thorough investigation into this matter.<br /> "I will write a prescription. Have Quinn take it on time, and he will recover in seven days."<br /> Amanda hurried to fetch paper and pen while Wesley prepared the prescription. Once done, he was ready to leave.<br /> Amanda said hurriedly, "Mr. Harrington, I've already made arrangements for lunch."<br /> "No need," Wesley smiled.<br /> The Kingsley family sought to build closer ties with Wesley, given his extraordinary medical skills. Wesley was well aware of this.<br /> Looking at Amanda and the others, Wesley remarked, "In the future, if you encounter any difficult medical cases that others cannot solve, seek me out. Remember, cases others cannot solve."<br /> The gaze of the Kingsley family members toward Wesley changed once again. Many renowned healers had eccentric personalities and were difficult to engage.<br /> They hadn't expected Wesley to possess such remarkable medical skills without any airs.<br /> As Wesley prepared to depart, the members of the Kingsley family did not dare to insist on his stay, so they accompanied him outside.<br /> "Oh, how could we forget such an important matter? Amanda, what about the consultation fee?" The middle-aged gent inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the oversight. Please wait a moment." Amanda hurried back inside and soon returned with a bank card in hand.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, there's one million dollars in here."<br /> Without hesitation, Wesley accepted the bank card and boarded Mia's car.<br /> During the journey, Mia boldly looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, you've helped me immensely. Can I treat you to a meal? Don't decline in a hurry. It's not a fancy restaurant, but it will leave you wanting more. It's a small place on the street, with only eight plates of noodles served each day, each plate containing different ingredients.<br /> "I managed to secure a reservation. Are you interested?"<br /> Wesley thought, "Eight Plates of Noodles? Ah, Aaron's restaurant. It has been a while since I visited those old friends."<br /> Wesley nodded. "Let's go then."<br /> The restaurant, Eight Plates of Noodles, was located on Chanxold Street near the Yeadeo First Central Hospital.<br /> The establishment was small, serving only eight plates of noodles each day at a price of 10 thousand dollars each. Vernoic's television culinary program had specifically covered this incident.<br /> Reservations were a must to secure a plate.<br /> The restaurant's owner had a mysterious background. While the specifics were unknown, a high-ranking noble from the capital of Vernoic, Kingsland, had caused a scene there once.<br /> He had attempted to force his way in without a reservation. Although this incident hadn't been reported, rumors suggested that a garbage truck had to be called to dispose of the intruder's remains, as he was too shattered to be removed by conventional means.<br /> Since then, no one dared to cause trouble.<br /> On their way, Mia introduced Wesley to the background story.<br /> "Mr. Turner, two plates of noodles." Mia called out once they arrived.<br /> Aaron Turner didn't respond but visibly paused upon seeing Wesley beside Mia.<br /> A faint smile appeared on his usually stoic face. Though the flesh on the face seemed stiff, it was indeed a smile. "Coming right up."<br /> Mia glanced at Aaron with a hint of surprise, thinking, "When did he become so warm and enthusiastic? His tone seemed a bit agitated earlier, didn't it?"<br /> Soon enough, Aaron brought two plates of noodles to the table. One steaming hot and the other devoid of any warmth.<br /> As Mia observed Aaron placing the plate without steam in front of Wesley, her expression changed slightly.<br /> It was a plate of instant noodles having soaked in cold water, with the seasoning barely dissolved.<br /> She felt a sense of panic. Mia had wanted to leave a good impression on Wesley, which was why she had chosen this place.<br /> However, Aaron had served such a plate of noodles.<br /> She dared not question Aaron. The type of noodles served here was not determined by the guests but by Aaron's mood.<br /> "This girl named Mia is quite something, living up to her name, and quite kind-hearted," Aaron remarked, looking at Wesley.<br /> "Get lost," Wesley retorted, using his fork to pick up the noodles and devouring them.<br /> Mia's face turned pale instantly. Disrespecting Aaron was akin to risking Wesley's life.<br /> To her astonishment, Aaron chuckled, tears welling up in his eyes.<br /> He wiped them away. "Alright, I'll leave you to your meal."<br /> Before departing, he gave Mia a thumbs-up. "Seize the opportunity."<br /> The eight plates of noodles symbolized the eight comrades who had faced life and life-threatening situations together.<br /> Wesley ate voraciously. Initially, they had only one pack of instant noodles to share among the eight of them, forcing them to divide it.<br /> Despite the circumstances, they devoured the noodles joyfully.<br /> Aaron had promised that once they survived, each one would have the most delicious plate of noodles.<br /> However, five of the eight had perished.<br /> Wesley had come dangerously close to life-threatening situations, but managed to cling to life.<br /> For him, the plate of noodles was not food but the bond of friendship that had shielded him from harm.<br /> "Do you... know each other?" Mia couldn't help but ask, her voice low and curious.<br /> "Some things are better left unknown," Wesley replied.<br /> Mia nodded in understanding, falling silent as they continued eating noodles. She couldn't help stealing glances at Wesley throughout the meal.<br /> This gent had piqued her curiosity even more.<br /> "Wesley, I see. No wonder you agreed to the divorce so readily. You've already found someone else outside."<br /> A sharp voice interrupted their meal.<br /> Taylor approached with a cold expression, accompanied by Henry. | Adoread Romance story | 106 | https://facebook.com/61557113391558 | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1713250800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846807 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446611 | 1735168083 | 890 | 1426859107917810 | 4 | 1.0750287970217E+15 | 1715065200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120206467056180695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1712240564 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434887251_3273516259616813_4965928032027185860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ITie4m6mDmcQ7kNvgF39Sy7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAcTA20T57nzysouEuK_o7pZp3Y0XqyL2fgucP3yDHGEg&oe=6663EDC2 | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434948003_814909497119687_9211098532922127326_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x7WiDOdWsTYQ7kNvgESVFnJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBulFosd9SXN4G0tMRKNSznqK_fnZdYowVwZ6iongagTg&oe=66640C13 | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846731 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446608 | 1735168083 | 890 | 3395827464043495 | 1 | 1.3782193795568E+15 | 1713942000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 235254296344339 | 0 | Adoread Romance story | 120207848352290113 | play.google.com | Install now | NONE | video | HOT BOOK✨Tap the button to read more👉 | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.adoread.book | 1713261152 | 2.3525429634434E+14 | Adoread Romance story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437732342_970951774681776_4141327689219733670_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1FR8z9qoqT4Q7kNvgGj-2Ak&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCJrukNeUGqwrNoULkYiBZ_XXbCnzs5XeV3WlxXd5deqg&oe=666412A0 | person_profile | 0 | Adoread Romance story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437737572_716602710401010_5377725330431703058_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ead8Zu-n08kQ7kNvgFJ3XWc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBr04O1WrRX2i_Sznjbh6VaCBpG2i5eCMXYpa7NCN9tSQ&oe=66640AE1 | 0 | 3 | Chapter 1 <br /> "Wesley, are you trying to harm me? You useless piece of trash, can't even make a decent cup of coffee, can you?"<br /> Madison Blair lifted her coffee cup and splashed it directly onto Wesley Harrington's face.<br /> "What are you looking at, you spineless waste? Your name sounds so lofty? I might as well call you a waste."<br /> Glancing at the grotesque expression of his wife's mother, Wesley pulled out his phone to check the time.<br /> Exactly twelve o'clock. It had been five full years since he married Taylor Reed.<br /> The appointed time had come.<br /> He had fulfilled his promise, safeguarding the Reed family for five years, transforming them from a family living off fishing to one perceived as affluent by the common folk.<br /> Wiping the coffee off his face, he turned and walked away.<br /> "Where do you think you're going? Go fetch some more coffee," Madison shouted.<br /> "Madison, didn't you say this waste is obedient at home, doing whatever he's told? I don't think he's taking it lying down."<br /> Madison grew angrier. "Wesley, you stop right there. My family has fed and housed you. If you dare disobey, I'll have you thrown out!"<br /> Ignoring her, Wesley continued downstairs.<br /> "When Taylor comes back, I'll immediately have you two divorced. Do you hear me? Stay right there," Madison threatened, "I'll let you know your place today."<br /> Grabbing a golf club, Madison swiftly charged towards Wesley.<br /> Seeing Wesley heading downstairs, she swung the club viciously at his back.<br /> Without turning back, Wesley gently sidestepped.<br /> Losing her balance, Madison tumbled forward, rolling down the stairs with a series of thumps.<br /> "Ouch... it hurts, it hurts so much!"<br /> As Madison reached the ground floor, she wailed in pain and her sister immediately rushed to her.<br /> "Wesley, what have you done? How dare you hit my sister!" Madison's sister hurried down, checking on Madison's condition.<br /> Wesley remained silent, observing the scene.<br /> "Quick, call Taylor. Tell her to come back. Today, she must divorce this waste." Madison glared at Wesley. "How dare you hit me? Not only will I let Taylor divorce you, but I'll make sure you leave in disgrace."<br /> "Mum, what's wrong?" At that moment, a gent and a lady walked in.<br /> The lady was Taylor, Madison's daughter.<br /> She ran towards Madison.<br /> As Madison pointed at Wesley, tears streamed down her face. "Taylor, he hit me, he hit me! When you're not home, he changes his attitude, scolding and hitting me in the slightest displeasure. He even pushed me down the stairs just now. Alexis can testify."<br /> Madison's sister, Alexis Blair, chimed in. "Yes, Wesley, this trash not only hit your mother but also threatened to hit me too. We cannot tolerate such trash."<br /> "Taylor, I have been telling you to divorce him for years. You've been supporting him, treating him like a Lord at home, but he's an ungrateful wolf in sheep's clothing."<br /> Helping Madison up, Taylor noticed the scrapes on Madison's arms and legs, her expression turning cold.<br /> "Wesley, why did you hit my mother? You better give me an explanation."<br /> Wesley looked at Taylor, his wife.<br /> Five years had passed, and she had never shown him kindness.<br /> Taylor dressed impeccably, a paragon of a successful lady, with a face that could be deemed angelic, yet whether her heart was as angelic remained a mystery.<br /> Her figure, too, left countless men yearning.<br /> For five years, Wesley had thought he might develop feelings for this lady, but in reality, it never happened.<br /> "There are surveillance cameras in the house," Wesley stated calmly before descending the stairs into the hallway.<br /> Despite residing in a three-story villa, Wesley's living quarters were confined to the stairwell.<br /> He harbored no resentment towards this arrangement. It was merely a promise. It was just that Taylor failed to appreciate him.<br /> This home held little value that he wished to cling onto.<br /> Retrieving a wooden box from beneath his pillow, Wesley extracted two documents. Casting a fleeting glance at the modest abode he had called home for five years, Wesley smiled faintly.<br /> He thought, "Finally... I'm free."<br /> Pushing the door ajar, Wesley was met by Taylor's piercing gaze. "I've reviewed the surveillance footage. Yes, my mother intended to strike you, but even if she did, what difference would it make?"<br /> "She's a lady. How much could her blows hurt you? Why did you dodge?"<br /> "If you hadn't dodged, my mother wouldn't have tumbled down." Wesley stared at Taylor, unable to comprehend her thought process.<br /> He had no interest in engaging in these arguments. Handing over the two documents to Taylor, he remarked, "The divorce agreement. I've already signed it. Take a look. I'm leaving with nothing."<br /> "With your current influence, there's no need for you to visit the city hall. Someone will handle it for you, right?"<br /> Madison was taken aback. She swiftly snatched the divorce agreement, flipping through it hastily.<br /> The contents were indeed straightforward. Both parties willingly divorced, with Wesley relinquishing all claims and having already signed.<br /> In an instant, Madison's pain seemed to dissipate. "Taylor, sign it quickly. Sign it."<br /> Taylor was still in a daze.<br /> She pondered.<br /> "A divorce agreement? Wesley has already prepared a divorce agreement. On what grounds?"<br /> "What gives him the right to initiate a divorce? All these years, he's done nothing at home, lacking any ambition. Always practicing martial arts, what right does he have to seek a divorce?"<br /> "If anyone should initiate it, it should be me. Moreover, now that I'm back to discussing this matter with him. Could it be that word got out, and Wesley, for the sake of his pride, rushed to prepare a divorce agreement first?"<br /> "It must be so, but... No!"<br /> "Wanting to leave with nothing, is he retreating to advance? As the chairman of the Reed Group, how could I be served with a divorce?"<br /> "Hey Wesley, I never expected this from you. Have I not treated you well enough? You seek a divorce, attempting to turn your retreat into advance, aiming to embarrass me?"<br /> Taylor glared at Wesley. "I'm telling you, it's impossible."<br /> Snatching the divorce agreement, she tore it to shreds.<br /> "Taylor, what are you doing? Such a great opportunity. Why not just sign it and let him leave?" Madison grew anxious.<br /> "Mom, I do intend to divorce this trash, but the decision must come from me. I returned specifically to address this matter."<br /> With that, Taylor produced two documents. "Wesley, remember that it's me who's divorcing you. It's me who no longer wants you. Initially, out of marital obligation, I had considered offering you some compensation. Now, you don't even need to think about it. Sign the divorce agreement and leave my home."<br /> Wesley offered a faint smile as he accepted the divorce agreement.<br /> "What are you laughing at?" Taylor demanded angrily.<br /> Wesley's smile seemed to mock her, fueling her rage.<br /> Ignoring her entirely, Wesley signed the document and handed it over.<br /> "What are you laughing at? Answer me! Who do you think you are?" Taylor roared once more.<br /> Wesley glanced at her before striding towards the exit.<br /> "Stop!" The gent who had accompanied Taylor stepped forward, blocking Wesley's path. "Taylor asked you a question, and... Your previous attitude displeased me. Apologize to Taylor, or I'll have you leave in disgrace!"<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 <br /> "Yes, let him leave in disgrace. He thought he could just hit me and walk away so easily," Madison joined in the commotion, also noticing the gent blocking Wesley's path.<br /> Madison had a keen interest in luxury goods, having frequented various high-end establishments over the years as the Reed family's living conditions improved. The gent was wearing an expensive watch and dressed head to toe in high-end luxury brands.<br /> Seeing Madison's gaze, the gent spoke. "Rest assured, today Wesley must pay the price."<br /> The gent introduced himself, looking at Wesley, "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Henry Clark, the eldest son of the Clark family and the general manager of the Clark Group in the North District."<br /> "From now on, I will accompany Taylor on her journey of life, and I will not allow anyone to bully her."<br /> "My identity carries weight. You should understand that. Now, apologize to Taylor. Apologize! Did you hear me? Apologize!"<br /> Madison's eyes lit up. She hadn't expected the gent before her to hold such a high status. She continued to shout, "Did you hear that? Taylor will be with Mr. Clark from now on. Apologize now."<br /> Wesley glanced at Henry, then at Taylor. He thought, "Have they been together all along?" Wesley had wanted to ask but decided against it because there was no need. He simply gave them a glance and continued walking towards the exit.<br /> "Are you ignoring me?" Henry's face turned cold as he reached out to grab Wesley. Henry's hand froze mid-air as he received a solid hit.<br /> "Until I sign the divorce papers, Taylor and I are still wife and husband. I don't care to investigate whether you two had any intimate relationship during that time, but don't provoke me, or I won't hesitate to make you regret it." Wesley's gaze was icy, and as Henry met his eyes, he felt a twinge of fear and swallowed his words.<br /> Taylor was also stunned. She knew exactly what Wesley had been like over the past five years. There were many surveillance cameras in the house, and she would often check them.<br /> Even when Taylor wasn't home, despite how her family treated Wesley, he always obeyed without complaint, especially towards her. He had never raised his voice, no matter how they treated him.<br /> Today, not only did Wesley dodge when her mother struck, but he also initiated the divorce and now even struck Henry. <br /> Taylor was at a loss for words, thinking, "How could this cowardly gent dare? On what grounds does he dare?"<br /> This change was difficult for Taylor to accept as if she didn't truly understand this guy. The gent who used to be obedient to her, completely submissive, now revealed this side of himself. She watched Wesley walk away in a daze, feeling a strange discomfort in her heart.<br /> "Isn't he leaving with nothing?" Alexis pointed at the wooden box Wesley was holding. "What is he taking with him?"<br /> Madison also realized. Over the past five years, Wesley had always treasured this wooden box, carrying it with him wherever he went. She thought there must be something valuable inside.<br /> Realizing this, Madison hurriedly followed. "Wesley, stop right there, leave the wooden box."<br /> Wesley paused, glanced at Madison, and said, "This is my personal belonging."<br /> "Nonsense, what personal belonging could you possibly have after marrying into the Reed family? Everything you've eaten, worn, and lived in over the years has been provided by the Reed family. Put it down."<br /> As she spoke, Madison reached out to grab the wooden box.<br /> "Ah..." A scream rang out as Madison quickly retracted her hand, a gash appearing on her palm, a crimson liquid dripping.<br /> The wooden box was now stained with the same crimson liquid, trembling lightly in Wesley's hand.<br /> "It's not the right time yet, the day you thirst for this crimson liquid will come," Wesley murmured softly, patting the box before turning to continue his stride towards the exit.<br /> "Monster! A monster!" Madison screamed, causing Taylor and the others to rush out. Seeing the wound in Madison's hand, Taylor was filled with rage.<br /> "Wesley, aren't you going to say something?" Wesley halted once more, contemplating before meeting Taylor's gaze.<br /> "Just stay out of my way from now on. Consider this a warning to you."<br /> "Taylor, that wooden box of his has a mechanism. It must hold something valuable! We can't let him take it with him," Madison, enduring the pain, reminded them.<br /> "Mom, your injury is important. We'll deal with him later. Let me take you to the hospital first." Taylor comforted Madison before calling out to the retreating Wesley.<br /> "Our marriage is over! Yet, you dared to hurt my mother! This won't be the end of it! I will make you regret it!" Ignoring her, Wesley continued walking out.<br /> "Rest assured, I promise he won't see the light of day tomorrow." Henry stepped forward to console. "Let's focus on getting your wound treated first."<br /> "I want him to regret ever existing in this world, to apologize to me in repentance," Madison roared.<br /> "Mom, trust me, I will make him do just that." Taylor looked at Madison with a mix of pity and determination. "Let's go to the hospital first."<br /> In the villa area, Wesley halted, his voice cold. "Get out."<br /> An elderly gent leaped down from a tree, appearing to be in his seventies, yet landing silently from a height of around ten feet.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, your father wants you to come home and take charge."<br /> "He stopped being my father five years ago. He's my enemy."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you misunderstood your father. He had his reasons back then. I swear in my life, once you know the truth, you will forgive him."<br /> "Huh!" Wesley smirked coldly, saying, "I nearly passed away back then. Is that also a misunderstanding?"<br /> The old gent pleaded, "Mr. Harrington, this situation is truly not as you perceive it."<br /> Wesley didn't engage further with the old guy. The events of that year were etched in his memory forever. He was the one who had been abandoned. If not for that incident, why would he have stayed with the Reed family for five years?<br /> Watching Wesley walk away, the old gent had tears silently streaming down his face. "Mr. Harrington, I truly... I truly can't bring myself to speak the truth, but you have misunderstood your father. He also bears burdens and endures pains beyond what an ordinary person can handle."<br /> As Wesley's figure disappeared, the old gent stood up, hesitated for a moment, then dialed a number on his phone.<br /> "Mr. Harrington is now divorced. I've given you the news firsthand. If your daughter is truly together with Mr. Harrington, you must fulfill the promise and let her persuade Mr. Harrington to come home."<br /> After hanging up, a middle-aged gent in a luxurious estate jumped up excitedly. Calming himself, he immediately made another call. "My dear, you're at Yeadeo, right?<br /> "Go find Wesley now. Don't mention the engagement for now. Use every means to get close to him, make him fall in love with you."<br /> "Dad, I don't have time."<br /> "No matter what you are busy with, you must go find Wesley now. No matter what reason you approach him, you must leave a good impression the first time."<br /> "Dad, I'm in trouble right now. If I don't handle it well, I might be good as gone. I have to deal with it immediately. I'm hanging up."<br /> Chapter 3 <br /> The middle-aged gent's voice lowered significantly. "Is there a big incident happening? You didn't tell me? What happened?"<br /> "Quinn Kingsley from Yeadeo, Mr. Kingsley, used our product and now has one foot on the grave. If something really happens to him..."<br /> "You mean Quinn, the uncontested leader of Yeadeo?"<br /> "Yes."<br /> "In that case, you should go find Wesley. Trust me, in this world, there is no problem that Wesley can't solve. As long as he's willing to help, you'll be fine. Listen to me, go find Wesley immediately."<br /> The lady fell silent for a moment before saying, "Okay."<br /> At Yeadeo Harbor, a gent with a large flaxen chain and a watch, sporting a crew cut, hurriedly disembarked, accompanied by a dozen gentlemen.<br /> "Mr. Reed, wherever that trash is, we will find him and tear him apart."<br /> "Yes, that guy dared to harm your mother. We'll make sure he pays for it."<br /> Frank Reed's face turned cold. "Wesley, you coward, thinking you can overturn the world? How dare you touch my mom? Just wait until I find you, you're finished."<br /> "We've found him. Wesley got into a taxi, and our boys followed him."<br /> "Let's go!" Frank waved his hand, leading dozens of men who boarded the car with harpoons, steel pipes, and other weapons.<br /> Inside the taxi, Wesley gazed at the scenery outside, feeling a strange sense of tranquility.<br /> He thought to himself, "I never imagined that while I was secretly paving the way for the Reed family, Taylor, after progressing so rapidly, would start looking down on me more and more."<br /> "Those ladies who know my true identity, which one of them isn't trying to throw themselves at me? Ladies like that don't interest me."<br /> "Being an ordinary gent is truly difficult," Wesley murmured, smiling faintly and deciding not to dwell on these matters anymore. He had important things to attend to and no time to waste on personal affairs.<br /> "Young lad, are you going to Feidgeuo Manor for a job interview?" The driver, curious about Wesley's destination, inquired.<br /> Feidgeuo Manor was Yeadeo's most mysterious private area. Originally a villa area, it was bought at a huge cost five years ago and completely renovated. It was said to have cost a trillion dollars. The former villa area was now Feidgeuo Manor.<br /> "That's my home," Wesley replied nonchalantly.<br /> The driver was taken aback by this revelation, silently cursing Wesley for bragging. After a couple of minutes, the driver regained his composure. "It seems like you and I both prefer to keep a low profile. My car usually gathers dust at home, so I occasionally drive a taxi to experience life."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "My car has been driven by my assistant for the past few years, so it's not gathering dust."<br /> "Haha..." The driver laughed. "We should get together sometime and see whose car is more impressive."<br /> "Sure, whenever we have the time."<br /> As they chatted, the vehicle soon arrived near Feidgeuo Manor, where the massive head of the Feidgeuo Peak protruded, creating a unique landscape in Yeadeo.<br /> The driver asked with a smile, "Since you're the owner here, it's fine if I drive in, right?"<br /> "Of course," Wesley replied.<br /> As soon as Wesley spoke, several cars caught up from behind.<br /> The cars surrounded the one Wesley was in, with the front vehicles braking to force the car to a stop.<br /> When numerous people descended from cars wielding harpoons and steel pipes, the driver's face paled.<br /> Frank and his group got out of the cars, instantly closing in, and without hesitation, started attacking, the steel pipes and harpoons thudding against the car.<br /> Frank's henchman yanked open the door of Wesley's car, poised to stab Wesley with a harpoon, but Wesley swiftly exited the vehicle.<br /> With a firm step on the ground, he launched a swift hit.<br /> A muffled sound echoed as the henchman was hit away.<br /> "What are you looking at?" Frank noticed his henchmen were all staring at him. "All of you, attack together and take him down!"<br /> As he commanded, the henchmen Frank brought with him surged forward.<br /> The taxi driver, trembling, took out his phone to call the police, but Frank glared at him. "I am Frank Reed from Yeadeo Harbor. If you dare, go ahead and make that call."<br /> Frank, leveraging his sister Taylor's status, had been causing trouble in Yeadeo Harbor, and no one dared to provoke him.<br /> Upon hearing Frank's name, the driver hastily put away his phone. "Mr. Reed, I'll just check the time, you guys continue."<br /> "Huh!" Frank snorted coldly, casting his gaze towards the surrounded Wesley.<br /> The sounds of thuds continued to ring out incessantly. Because Wesley was completely surrounded, Frank was unable to see the situation inside clearly, but he could imagine it. After all, in Frank's mind, the henchmen under his command were not to be trifled with.<br /> "Hit him hard for me!"<br /> Another muffled sound and a figure flew out. At that moment, Frank finally saw the situation clearly, and his face turned pale.<br /> Frank knew that Wesley liked to practice martial arts, but he had never expected Wesley to be this skilled. It wasn't Wesley who had been beaten, but his own men by Wesley alone.<br /> Frantically, Frank turned and ran to retrieve a crossbow from the car.<br /> "Clear the way." Frank bellowed, aiming the crossbow at Wesley.<br /> "You scumbag, you think you can fight? Move one more time, and I'll end your life! Surrender!"<br /> Wesley, holding a wooden box, stared at Frank. Ignoring the crossbow in his hand, Wesley said, "Tell your henchmen to back off, or you'll all see the light from above!"<br /> "You're really good at pretending to be tough." Frank took two steps forward. "See the light? Move a muscle and see if I can end your life or not! If you don't have the guts, apologize now!"<br /> Wesley turned his head and looked at the approaching cars, with two expensive ones in the lead, two more in the rear, and another one in the middle.<br /> "Keep acting tough, and I'll put a hole in your head." Frank spoke while glancing at the five cars. "What, looking for help?"<br /> "Let me tell you, those who ride in these cars are not the kind of weaklings like you who rely on connections. With me here, in Yeadeo's social hierarchy, even those who ride in such cars wouldn't dare meddle in this matter. And let me make it clear, without my sister, you're nothing."<br /> <br /> Chapter 4<br /> As Frank's words faded, the five cars came to a halt.<br /> A bodyguard opened the door of the one in the middle, revealing a dazzling pair of shining shoes catching everyone's eye.<br /> The shining shoe encased a beautiful foot. Above, the skirt's hem was adorned with lace.<br /> Then, like a fairy stepping out of a painting, she appeared before everyone's eyes.<br /> The lady was beautiful!<br /> Frank was mesmerized. Ever since the Reed family rose to prominence, he had been surrounded by ladies, but compared to the elegant lady before him, they were worlds apart.<br /> It wasn't just a difference in appearance but an incomparable gap in demeanor.<br /> The lady descending from the Maybach seemed like a celestial being untouched by mortal affairs.<br /> The embodiment of a fairy in the mundane world.<br /> She simply stood there after getting out of the car, perfectly embodying what it meant to be graceful and elegant.<br /> The lady glanced at Wesley, then at Frank.<br /> Frank grinned, saying, "May I have the honor of knowing the name of this esteemed lady? I am Frank..."<br /> The lady spoke calmly. "Disrespect Mr. Harrington, and you're done for."<br /> Her bodyguards, unfazed by Frank's crossbow, swiftly overwhelmed him, sending him crashing to the ground.<br /> The henchmen who had come with Frank, previously defeated by Wesley, now scrambled to their feet and fled in all directions.<br /> Who would dare provoke someone who could afford such a car?<br /> "My sister is Taylor Reed, the chairperson of Reed Group," Frank shouted, clutching his head.<br /> Ignoring him, one of the bodyguards dragged him to the roadside grass while another used a belt to tighten around Frank's neck, exerting pressure.<br /> "Enough, a lesson is all that's needed." Wesley spoke calmly, and only when the lady gestured did the bodyguards release Frank.<br /> Frank lay there, already unconscious.<br /> Wesley turned to the lady. "Who are you?"<br /> "I am Mia Roberts, the general manager of Vinver Business Alliance's Yeadeo branch." She looked at Wesley and continued, "Mr. Harrington, my father mentioned that you have miraculous healing skills and earnestly requested your assistance. A generous reward awaits."<br /> Wesley furrowed his brow slightly, thinking, "There are indeed people who recognize my abilities and status, yet I've rarely intervened in the past five years. Today, shortly after I divorced Taylor, she is here. Whose arrangement is this?"<br /> "Mr. Harrington, my father also mentioned that you are benevolent and has raised the banner of compassion among healers, serving as a role model and benchmark for all in the medical field."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "You have a way with words. Tell me the specifics."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, please get in the car first. I will explain in detail on the way."<br /> The phrase "compassionate healer" held significant weight for Wesley, who had saved countless lives from the brink of death.<br /> Without further ado, he got into the car.<br /> Inside, after Mia brewed coffee for Wesley, she began. "Vinver Business Alliance has a wide range of business operations, and I mainly oversee the health supplement sector, which has seen some success in recent years.<br /> "Recently, Quinn Kingsley started using our medicines, and now there's an accident."<br /> As she spoke, Mia kept her gaze fixed on Wesley.<br /> Quinn, the undisputed leader of Yeadeo, was a figure of immense influence.<br /> Upon hearing this name, Wesley showed no particular reaction. "If the city's leader faces issues with your products, it is indeed a concern. Let's go and see."<br /> With just a sentence, Wesley leaned back in his seat, closing his eyes to rest.<br /> Mia was secretly alarmed, thinking, "He knows who Quinn is, yet he seems indifferent. Who is this Wesley, really? No wonder Dad has instructed me to find a way to win his favor." Mia's inner resistance toward Wesley quietly shifted.<br /> Wesley had piqued her curiosity.<br /> As the vehicle was moving, Wesley's phone rang.<br /> Wesley opened his eyes and took out his phone to see Taylor calling.<br /> Pressing the answer button, he asked, "What's the matter?"<br /> On the other end of the line, Taylor, driving towards Feidgeuo Manor, had a grim expression.<br /> She thought, "Has Wesley ever spoken to me in such a cold tone before? Is he really this heartless right after our divorce?"<br /> Already furious, she snapped. "Wesley, do you even consider yourself a human being?<br /> "Today, not only did you lay hands on my mother, but you also had someone attack my brother. Do you not remember our past at all?"<br /> Wesley calmly replied, "Do we have a past to remember?"<br /> "You truly are a heartless scumbag, just as my mother said. You are an ungrateful and vicious person I raised for five years. Even a pet would wag its tail at me!"<br /> Taylor wanted to continue her tirade, but the phone line had already turned busy.<br /> This only fueled her anger further.<br /> Just now, she had received a call from Frank's underlings, informing her that Wesley had sent people to attack Frank and even intended to end him.<br /> Taylor wanted to demand answers, but...<br /> As Taylor was clutching her fists, her gaze turned icy.<br /> After a moment, she picked up her phone again. "Wesley, you are so narrow-minded. You have no ambition. Any lady would steer clear of you."<br /> "Just because I dumped you, you are doing this on purpose to make me feel sick. Pretending to be aloof and seeking revenge? Do you even deserve it?"<br /> "In Yeadeo, squashing you would be as easy as squashing an ant. You're asking for it! If anything happens to my brother, I will make you wish you were ending!"<br /> Her furious voice message echoed in the car.<br /> Wesley chuckled and put away his phone.<br /> Beside him, Mia seemed contemplative. Before coming, she had already ordered a swift investigation into Wesley.<br /> She was curious, thinking, "How could someone valued by my father could be the one 'marrying into' the Reed family."<br /> Being tactful, Mia chose not to ask and pretended not to have heard.<br /> After about forty minutes, they arrived at the Kingsley Manor.<br /> The Kingsley family members, upon seeing Mia alight from the car, all wore grim expressions.<br /> Mia greeted them with a smile, "Everyone, this is Wesley Harrington, Mr. Harrington, the miraculous healer I specially invited to treat Mr. Kingsley."<br /> "Him? The gent who married into the Reed family?"<br /> "A miraculous healer? Is he even worthy? Are healers so worthless now?"<br /> "A useless gent who mooches off of the Reed family? How dare he call himself a miraculous healer? Truly a joke among all jokes."<br /> Chapter 5<br /> <br /> Amanda Kingsley, Quinn's granddaughter, stared coldly at Wesley and Mia.<br /> This lady, dressed in a smart suit, also held significant fame in Yeadeo, overseeing the region's business activities, including investment attraction and various local business negotiations.<br /> Amanda had a favorable view of Taylor, who had risen swiftly in recent times, and they had interacted frequently.<br /> She was aware of Wesley's existence and had advised Taylor to part ways with him early on.<br /> But Amanda never imagined that Mia would bring someone like Wesley, a complete waste, and claim he was a miraculous healer.<br /> Glaring at Mia, she said, "Mia, once my grandfather is well, it's best for your Roberts family to leave Yeadeo."<br /> "As for you..." She glanced at Wesley. "I will advise Taylor to divorce you. You have deceived Taylor's feelings and now shamelessly made your way into my family. You are a despicable creature."<br /> After reprimanding Mia and Wesley, she turned to an elderly gent beside her, and her tone and attitude completely changed. "Mr. Phillips, sorry to trouble you. My grandfather is inside, please."<br /> Mia looked at the elderly gent, who was already in his twilight years, feeling deeply shocked.<br /> Scott Phillips, the 38th generation heir of the Healing Clinic, was now ninety-two years old.<br /> Renowned as a miraculous healer, he was a respected figure in the medical community of Yeadeo and even nationally.<br /> He no longer conducted consultations personally due to his old age. Mia had visited him specifically to pay her respects once she had arrived in Yeadeo but had not met Scott.<br /> She never expected Scott to appear in person. It was understandable, as Quinn held a prominent position in the city. Despite the profound influence of the Phillips family, they still had to show respect to Quinn.<br /> Mia looked at Wesley, feeling conflicted and thinking, "Dad has confidently claimed that Wesley has extraordinary abilities, but does he really?"<br /> She harbored doubts, but out of propriety, Mia spoke. "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the trouble."<br /> Wesley smiled, "It's fine. As long as the person can be healed."<br /> His open-mindedness impressed Mia.<br /> After about half an hour, Amanda emerged from the room. All eyes instantly turned towards her.<br /> It was evident that Amanda had wailed out, with traces of tears still visible.<br /> "Amanda, how is it?" A middle-aged gent anxiously asked her.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family who had rushed back also focused their attention on her.<br /> "Mr. Phillips said that there's little hope of recovery. He could only use acupuncture to wake grandfather for half an hour. When grandfather wakes up, let's all go in and see if he has any final instructions."<br /> Everyone was shocked.<br /> "How could this be?"<br /> "Is Mr. Phillips also helpless?"<br /> The members of the Kingsley family found it hard to accept this reality, especially since Quinn had always treated his juniors well.<br /> The thought of Quinn departing saddened some, and tears silently fell.<br /> Publicly, Quinn's status was the foundation of the Kingsley family's prominence in Yeadeo.<br /> If Quinn were to pass away, the Kingsley family would undoubtedly decline.<br /> The atmosphere within the Kingsley family was somber.<br /> Amanda looked at her family members, opened her mouth, but said nothing, silently turning back into the room.<br /> "Stop crying," A middle-aged gent said sternly, "Dad wouldn't want to see you all in tears. If he's really leaving, we mustn't let him worry about us. Pull yourselves together."<br /> After these words, the middle-aged gent also entered the room.<br /> The younger members of the Kingsley family wiped their tears vigorously, trying to force smiles, but in truth, they looked better at crying than pretending to be happy.<br /> Mia's spirit plummeted as she realized the gravity of the situation. Even if an ordinary person passed away from consuming health supplements, it spelled big trouble for those who sold them. And when the deceased happened to be Quinn, the stakes were even higher.<br /> She understood that it would be difficult for this branch to stay in Yeadeo, and even the headquarters might face repercussions.<br /> "Let's go in and have a look." Wesley glanced at Mia. "There might still be a chance."<br /> "Ah..." Mia stared at Wesley in surprise. Seeing him already heading towards the room, she quickly followed suit.<br /> Inside the room, the members of the Kingsley family stood around the mattress, maintaining a certain distance.<br /> Scott lit the alcohol lamp and took out the needles, his expression solemn.<br /> He looked at the members of the Kingsley family. "Think about what you want to say to Mr. Kingsley later. Once you're ready, let me know, and then I'll proceed with the acupuncture."<br /> As he said this, tears welled up in many eyes.<br /> "If you don't mind, let me take a look. I have a way." Wesley spoke up, drawing everyone's attention.<br /> Amanda's face darkened. "Who let you in? Get out!"<br /> "Mia, have you lost your mind? Tricked by this trash and actually brought him here as a miracle healer. Get out with him! I'll settle the score with you in a couple of days."<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, at a loss for words.<br /> "Even Mr. Phillips is unable to reverse the situation. What use are you? Get out." Another younger member of the Kingsley family angrily rebuked.<br /> The middle-aged gent added, "We're in no mood right now. You better leave immediately."<br /> "I understand your narrow-mindedness," Wesley continued, "But as a healer, once I see a patient, I cannot stand by and watch him draw his last breath."<br /> "Wesley, you're quite the charlatan. Do you really want to be gone right now?" Amanda's voice was filled with anger.<br /> "Amanda, let me say a few words," Scott interjected, and Amanda fell silent.<br /> Looking at Wesley, Scott began. "Young lad, at my age, I've seen a lot and have a broad perspective. Today, however, I find it hard to remain indifferent. I practiced medicine from the age of sixteen until I stopped seeing patients for a total of seventy years."<br /> "I've saved countless patients from various illnesses. I never easily declare a patient's fate, nor do I believe I have the right to do so."<br /> "But from your recent remarks, it seems like you're accusing me of such actions. Young people wanting to make a name for themselves by stepping on the shoulders of their predecessors, I can understand."<br /> "But this kind of behavior displeases me."<br /> "My displeasure, what does it mean to you? Do you understand?"<br /> "Even if you are a healer, your career will be ruined because of this."<br /> Chapter 6 <br /> In the face of Scott's veiled threats, Wesley simply smiled and brushed them off.<br /> Looking at Scott, he asked, "I've always focused on the issue at hand rather than attacking individuals. I have a few questions for you. If you can't administer the needles, how long do you think Quinn can hold on?"<br /> "Seven days, but he will remain unconscious," Scott replied bluntly.<br /> "Then let me ask you this, is there anyone in the world with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "Outrageous," Amanda coldly interjected, "Mr. Phillips is unparalleled in his medical expertise."<br /> Scott glanced at Amanda. "Amanda, let me handle this question."<br /> Continuing to address Wesley, he said, "I don't underestimate myself, nor do I overestimate. There are countless talented individuals in the world, like stars in the sky. I may not dare claim to be the best in medical skills, but those who surpass me are few."<br /> "That means there are some," Wesley calmly remarked, causing Scott's expression to shift slightly, "Indeed, there are."<br /> "Then let me ask you this. Do you think within seven days, the Kingsley family won't find someone with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "If they do find someone, do you believe there is an illness that you cannot cure, but this person can?"<br /> Wesley's questions were sharp and resounding.<br /> Scott's face changed once more as he was rendered speechless.<br /> "Even if there is, that person will never be you." Amanda's face turned icy. "Now get out. Don't spout your eloquence here. Your deceitful behavior is repulsive."<br /> "Your understanding of me is merely hearsay, isn't it?" Wesley retorted, his gaze mocking Amanda, "Has your background and education taught you such arrogance and prejudice?"<br /> "Arrogance?" Amanda's face grew colder as she disdainfully looked at Wesley. "Prejudice?<br /> "Did I say something wrong just now? You are nothing but stagnant waste, a parasite living off others. If it weren't for Taylor, you would have starved on the streets long ago."<br /> "Relying on sweet words, deceiving Taylor. She, with her kind heart, can't bear to divorce you, but don't push your luck. If it weren't for Taylor's sake, you would have been sent out long ago."<br /> Scott interrupted Amanda, "Amanda, although I find this lad a bit annoying, what he said does hold some truth. There are indeed individuals with better medical skills than me. Your grandfather can hold on for seven days. Try reaching out to see if someone can come over. I'll help you make connections."<br /> "If it really doesn't work out after seven days, I'll administer the needles to your grandfather. However, at that point, I can only buy you three minutes."<br /> As soon as Scott spoke, the faces of the Kingsley family members grew even more solemn. True healers were rare and not easily summoned.<br /> While the Kingsley family had connections in Yeadeo, their influence waned outside of it.<br /> "Mr. Phillips, please administer the needles. Life has its ups and downs, and we understand that. Just buy my father a bit more time." The middle-aged gent spoke up.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family nodded in agreement.<br /> Amanda looked at Scott. "Mr. Phillips, please."<br /> "In that case, please have everyone unrelated leave. I need silence," Scott calmly stated.<br /> Amanda glared at Wesley, her eyes speaking volumes without a word.<br /> The unrelated individuals were, naturally, Wesley and Mia.<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, intending to leave, but she suddenly hesitated.<br /> Instead of leaving, Wesley moved forward.<br /> "What are you doing?" A young member of the Kingsley family stepped forward with a stern expression, pushing Wesley.<br /> In one swift motion, Wesley executed a clean shoulder throw, toppling the young gent to the ground, his own expression turning cold.<br /> "A bunch of fools! If it weren't for my teacher's teachings about not turning a blind eye to those in need, I wouldn't bother with you ignorant lot," Wesley remarked with disdain.<br /> As Wesley effortlessly took down one individual from the Kingsley family, the others seemed slow to react.<br /> By the time they realized what was happening, Wesley had already picked up the needle next to Scott and casually flicked his wrist.<br /> The needle flew out of his hand, piercing Quinn's temple, followed by a second needle, a third needle, and so on.<br /> "What are you doing? Stop!" Amanda's voice rose in urgency, echoed by the rest of the Kingsley family members who rushed forward to restrain Wesley.<br /> "Stay back, everyone. Wait." Scott suddenly stood up, blocking the others. "Let him try."<br /> Amanda and the others were left dumbfounded, thinking, "What does this mean?"<br /> Despite their confusion, they heeded Scott's words.<br /> After Scott stopped the members of the Kingsley family, he fixed his gaze on Wesley.<br /> Wesley proceeded to use eighteen needles in succession, symbolizing the levels of pain.<br /> Even if someone had descended into the depths of hell, they must be brought back.<br /> The final needle, also piercing a vital point, caused Quinn's body to tremble suddenly, resonating with the previous eighteen needles.<br /> Scott's eyes widened, his body trembling slightly. His reaction left Amanda and the others even more puzzled, but none dared to interrupt.<br /> Moments later, Wesley placed a palm on Quinn's chest, causing all eighteen needles to be shaken off. When all the needles landed on the ground, the part of the skin where the needles had pierced turned dark.<br /> Wesley then dragged Quinn to the edge of the mattress, flipped him over with his head facing downwards, and gave him a firm pat on the back.<br /> Quinn spat out a mouthful of black liquid. When Wesley flipped him back to lie flat, his complexion had regained some color.<br /> "The Hand of Darkness... It's the Hand of Darkness!" Scott exclaimed with excitement, his body quivering, "It's the Hand that descends into the dark world, snatching people from the hands of the Evil!"<br /> "You do have some knowledge, recognizing the Hand of Darkness." Wesley glanced at Scott.<br /> Scott's gaze towards Wesley had undergone a drastic change. He respectfully clasped his hands together.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thirty years ago, I had the honor of attending a teaching conference held by Mr. Vanderbilt. I saw the Hand of Darkness, but my limited aptitude only allowed me to grasp the basics."<br /> "I have been blind and ignorant. I apologize for my earlier offenses. Please forgive me, Mr. Harrington."<br /> The Mr. Vanderbilt Scott referred to was Wesley's teacher, Ulysses Vanderbilt. He generously imparted his skills to others, but the ability to learn depended on one's innate talent.<br /> In this world, few could learn Ulysses' skills.<br /> Scott had been fortunate to receive guidance from Ulysses, which had elevated his medical skills. However, the Hand of Darkness, a miraculous ability, was beyond his comprehension.<br /> Wesley smiled faintly, "Your actions earlier are understandable. I appreciate your words."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you must be an exceptional disciple of Mr. Vanderbilt, possessing unparalleled magnanimity. Impressive," Scott continued.<br /> "Enough with the flattery at your age."<br /> "You are mistaken, Mr. Harrington. Every word I speak is sincere."<br /> Mia, Amanda, and the others stood bewildered by the unfolding situation.<br /> "Mr. Phillips... he... he..." Amanda's words faltered.<br /> Scott turned to the members of the Kingsley family. "Meeting Mr. Harrington was Quinn's luck. His symptoms have been cured by Mr. Harrington. With a few days of rest, he will be fine."<br /> The waste Taylor had previously said was called Mr. Harrington by Scott!<br /> Recalling their previous attitudes, Amanda hurriedly apologized, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> The members of the Kingsley family all apologized in unison, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> Chapter 7 <br /> With a faint smile, Wesley remarked, "As family members of a patient, your actions earlier are understandable. There's no need for such formality."<br /> Amanda's perplexity deepened as she thought, "Where is the cowardly waste that Taylor described? This display of magnanimity and breadth is far from it."<br /> Mia, too, felt a shiver of realization, thinking, "No wonder Dad has insisted on my proximity to Wesley.<br /> This guy..."<br /> She gazed at Wesley, her curiosity piqued, a sense of exploration stirring within her.<br /> "Mia has brought you here, Mr. Harrington, to cure my grandfather. The Kingsley family will never forget this act. However, considering that my grandfather's ailment stemmed from the health supplements produced by the Vinver Business Alliance, we will be conducting an investigation into it."<br /> Amanda continued, looking at Wesley, "What do you think... of this approach?"<br /> It was Mia who had invited Wesley, so Amanda had grown wiser, refraining from asking for a direct punishment of the Vinver Business Alliance.<br /> As Mia heard Amanda's words, her heart skipped a beat, realizing trouble was brewing.<br /> "On the way here, Ms. Roberts briefed me on the situation. You conducted experiments on mice, correct?"<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes, the health supplements we received were exclusively provided by the Roberts family. There were no similar cases on the market, so we used mice for testing.<br /> "All the mice that ingested this supplement were gone."<br /> She looked at Mia and added, her voice turning colder, "Before the experiment, I specifically contacted Mia to inquire about the testing methods during the development phase, which involved mice.<br /> "There have been individuals eyeing my grandfather's position, some even wishing for his demise. I never imagined that the Vinver Business Alliance, which I attracted for investment, would become a weapon in someone else's hands."<br /> "Do you have any of the remaining medicine?" Wesley inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes."<br /> "Bring some over."<br /> Immediately, someone fetched the medicine. After it was brought to him, Wesley took out a supplement and swallowed it directly.<br /> This scene left Amanda and the others dumbfounded.<br /> Scott, too, was bewildered. "Mr. Harrington, what are you doing?"<br /> Wesley smiled, "Just proving that this medicine is not toxic."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thank you," Mia thanked sincerely, feeling like crying at that moment.<br /> Amanda, with a puzzled expression, looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, are you suggesting that my grandfather's condition wasn't caused by the Vinver Business Alliance's medicine? What about the mice?"<br /> The rest were equally puzzled.<br /> "Yes, but not entirely," Wesley said, leaving everyone even more bewildered.<br /> Mia's emotions were like a rollercoaster ride, from relief to immediate tension.<br /> "This medicine itself is not toxic, but when taken with another substance made from a certain plant, it results in Quinn's condition. The mice would die immediately, while humans could endure a few more days."<br /> Wesley continued to explain, "The plant used in this concoction is originally meant for crafting slow-acting toxins, not for human consumption."<br /> Looking at Amanda, Wesley said, "During this period, whoever had access to your grandfather and the mice will better understand why these events occurred."<br /> The gaze of members of the Kingsley family immediately focused on a lady.<br /> Amanda, somewhat incredulous, looked at her. "Can you offer an explanation?"<br /> The lady was the wife of Amanda's deceased brother. She found it hard to accept, as did the rest of the Kingsley family.<br /> This lady had been named the exemplary lady who served her family well this year, not due to her connection with the Kingsley family but because she genuinely deserved it.<br /> "What do you mean? Amanda, what explanation do you want from me?"<br /> The lady stared at Amanda. "Am I the only one who had access to Grandfather and the mice? You, and you... and you, who didn't have access?"<br /> "You all claim to treat me as family. Since I married into the Kingsley family, I have worked diligently, contributing my share even if not acknowledged."<br /> "Amanda, it has been over a year since your brother passed, and I never once considered remarrying. Now, just because of his words, you demand an explanation from me?"<br /> Pointing at Wesley, the lady questioned, "Just because he accuses me of poisoning, you suspect me? Tell me, did I poison him?" The lady glared at Wesley.<br /> "I am merely analyzing the facts. As for concluding this case, it's not within my purview," Wesley addressed the members of the Kingsley family, saying, "You should conduct a thorough investigation into this matter.<br /> "I will write a prescription. Have Quinn take it on time, and he will recover in seven days."<br /> Amanda hurried to fetch paper and pen while Wesley prepared the prescription. Once done, he was ready to leave.<br /> Amanda said hurriedly, "Mr. Harrington, I've already made arrangements for lunch."<br /> "No need," Wesley smiled.<br /> The Kingsley family sought to build closer ties with Wesley, given his extraordinary medical skills. Wesley was well aware of this.<br /> Looking at Amanda and the others, Wesley remarked, "In the future, if you encounter any difficult medical cases that others cannot solve, seek me out. Remember, cases others cannot solve."<br /> The gaze of the Kingsley family members toward Wesley changed once again. Many renowned healers had eccentric personalities and were difficult to engage.<br /> They hadn't expected Wesley to possess such remarkable medical skills without any airs.<br /> As Wesley prepared to depart, the members of the Kingsley family did not dare to insist on his stay, so they accompanied him outside.<br /> "Oh, how could we forget such an important matter? Amanda, what about the consultation fee?" The middle-aged gent inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the oversight. Please wait a moment." Amanda hurried back inside and soon returned with a bank card in hand.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, there's one million dollars in here."<br /> Without hesitation, Wesley accepted the bank card and boarded Mia's car.<br /> During the journey, Mia boldly looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, you've helped me immensely. Can I treat you to a meal? Don't decline in a hurry. It's not a fancy restaurant, but it will leave you wanting more. It's a small place on the street, with only eight plates of noodles served each day, each plate containing different ingredients.<br /> "I managed to secure a reservation. Are you interested?"<br /> Wesley thought, "Eight Plates of Noodles? Ah, Aaron's restaurant. It has been a while since I visited those old friends."<br /> Wesley nodded. "Let's go then."<br /> The restaurant, Eight Plates of Noodles, was located on Chanxold Street near the Yeadeo First Central Hospital.<br /> The establishment was small, serving only eight plates of noodles each day at a price of 10 thousand dollars each. Vernoic's television culinary program had specifically covered this incident.<br /> Reservations were a must to secure a plate.<br /> The restaurant's owner had a mysterious background. While the specifics were unknown, a high-ranking noble from the capital of Vernoic, Kingsland, had caused a scene there once.<br /> He had attempted to force his way in without a reservation. Although this incident hadn't been reported, rumors suggested that a garbage truck had to be called to dispose of the intruder's remains, as he was too shattered to be removed by conventional means.<br /> Since then, no one dared to cause trouble.<br /> On their way, Mia introduced Wesley to the background story.<br /> "Mr. Turner, two plates of noodles." Mia called out once they arrived.<br /> Aaron Turner didn't respond but visibly paused upon seeing Wesley beside Mia.<br /> A faint smile appeared on his usually stoic face. Though the flesh on the face seemed stiff, it was indeed a smile. "Coming right up."<br /> Mia glanced at Aaron with a hint of surprise, thinking, "When did he become so warm and enthusiastic? His tone seemed a bit agitated earlier, didn't it?"<br /> Soon enough, Aaron brought two plates of noodles to the table. One steaming hot and the other devoid of any warmth.<br /> As Mia observed Aaron placing the plate without steam in front of Wesley, her expression changed slightly.<br /> It was a plate of instant noodles having soaked in cold water, with the seasoning barely dissolved.<br /> She felt a sense of panic. Mia had wanted to leave a good impression on Wesley, which was why she had chosen this place.<br /> However, Aaron had served such a plate of noodles.<br /> She dared not question Aaron. The type of noodles served here was not determined by the guests but by Aaron's mood.<br /> "This girl named Mia is quite something, living up to her name, and quite kind-hearted," Aaron remarked, looking at Wesley.<br /> "Get lost," Wesley retorted, using his fork to pick up the noodles and devouring them.<br /> Mia's face turned pale instantly. Disrespecting Aaron was akin to risking Wesley's life.<br /> To her astonishment, Aaron chuckled, tears welling up in his eyes.<br /> He wiped them away. "Alright, I'll leave you to your meal."<br /> Before departing, he gave Mia a thumbs-up. "Seize the opportunity."<br /> The eight plates of noodles symbolized the eight comrades who had faced life and life-threatening situations together.<br /> Wesley ate voraciously. Initially, they had only one pack of instant noodles to share among the eight of them, forcing them to divide it.<br /> Despite the circumstances, they devoured the noodles joyfully.<br /> Aaron had promised that once they survived, each one would have the most delicious plate of noodles.<br /> However, five of the eight had perished.<br /> Wesley had come dangerously close to life-threatening situations, but managed to cling to life.<br /> For him, the plate of noodles was not food but the bond of friendship that had shielded him from harm.<br /> "Do you... know each other?" Mia couldn't help but ask, her voice low and curious.<br /> "Some things are better left unknown," Wesley replied.<br /> Mia nodded in understanding, falling silent as they continued eating noodles. She couldn't help stealing glances at Wesley throughout the meal.<br /> This gent had piqued her curiosity even more.<br /> "Wesley, I see. No wonder you agreed to the divorce so readily. You've already found someone else outside."<br /> A sharp voice interrupted their meal.<br /> Taylor approached with a cold expression, accompanied by Henry. | Adoread Romance story | 106 | https://facebook.com/61557113391558 | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1713250800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846732 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446608 | 1735168083 | 890 | 424726003507326 | 1 | 9.6537478863164E+14 | 1713337200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 235254296344339 | 0 | Adoread Romance story | 120207848351070113 | play.google.com | Install now | NONE | video | HOT BOOK✨Tap the button to read more👉 | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.adoread.book | 1713261302 | 2.3525429634434E+14 | Adoread Romance story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438204973_393166876928170_2218866148947350612_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=iUFqIdBkb54Q7kNvgHxkWhX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB1j44WQAkLIyDpL6vYv28XHR_H-REZHdaNjjXB4zZxQw&oe=6663FA1B | person_profile | 0 | Adoread Romance story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437529068_1096000961688418_6180617759607228719_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vSOVQLJE55EQ7kNvgE5yOOC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7XasIK_V-9fWgsUQ9Xd-UtbIKKdPy82xR8T6cDheozQ&oe=6663E2C4 | 0 | 3 | Chapter 1 <br /> "Wesley, are you trying to harm me? You useless piece of trash, can't even make a decent cup of coffee, can you?"<br /> Madison Blair lifted her coffee cup and splashed it directly onto Wesley Harrington's face.<br /> "What are you looking at, you spineless waste? Your name sounds so lofty? I might as well call you a waste."<br /> Glancing at the grotesque expression of his wife's mother, Wesley pulled out his phone to check the time.<br /> Exactly twelve o'clock. It had been five full years since he married Taylor Reed.<br /> The appointed time had come.<br /> He had fulfilled his promise, safeguarding the Reed family for five years, transforming them from a family living off fishing to one perceived as affluent by the common folk.<br /> Wiping the coffee off his face, he turned and walked away.<br /> "Where do you think you're going? Go fetch some more coffee," Madison shouted.<br /> "Madison, didn't you say this waste is obedient at home, doing whatever he's told? I don't think he's taking it lying down."<br /> Madison grew angrier. "Wesley, you stop right there. My family has fed and housed you. If you dare disobey, I'll have you thrown out!"<br /> Ignoring her, Wesley continued downstairs.<br /> "When Taylor comes back, I'll immediately have you two divorced. Do you hear me? Stay right there," Madison threatened, "I'll let you know your place today."<br /> Grabbing a golf club, Madison swiftly charged towards Wesley.<br /> Seeing Wesley heading downstairs, she swung the club viciously at his back.<br /> Without turning back, Wesley gently sidestepped.<br /> Losing her balance, Madison tumbled forward, rolling down the stairs with a series of thumps.<br /> "Ouch... it hurts, it hurts so much!"<br /> As Madison reached the ground floor, she wailed in pain and her sister immediately rushed to her.<br /> "Wesley, what have you done? How dare you hit my sister!" Madison's sister hurried down, checking on Madison's condition.<br /> Wesley remained silent, observing the scene.<br /> "Quick, call Taylor. Tell her to come back. Today, she must divorce this waste." Madison glared at Wesley. "How dare you hit me? Not only will I let Taylor divorce you, but I'll make sure you leave in disgrace."<br /> "Mum, what's wrong?" At that moment, a gent and a lady walked in.<br /> The lady was Taylor, Madison's daughter.<br /> She ran towards Madison.<br /> As Madison pointed at Wesley, tears streamed down her face. "Taylor, he hit me, he hit me! When you're not home, he changes his attitude, scolding and hitting me in the slightest displeasure. He even pushed me down the stairs just now. Alexis can testify."<br /> Madison's sister, Alexis Blair, chimed in. "Yes, Wesley, this trash not only hit your mother but also threatened to hit me too. We cannot tolerate such trash."<br /> "Taylor, I have been telling you to divorce him for years. You've been supporting him, treating him like a Lord at home, but he's an ungrateful wolf in sheep's clothing."<br /> Helping Madison up, Taylor noticed the scrapes on Madison's arms and legs, her expression turning cold.<br /> "Wesley, why did you hit my mother? You better give me an explanation."<br /> Wesley looked at Taylor, his wife.<br /> Five years had passed, and she had never shown him kindness.<br /> Taylor dressed impeccably, a paragon of a successful lady, with a face that could be deemed angelic, yet whether her heart was as angelic remained a mystery.<br /> Her figure, too, left countless men yearning.<br /> For five years, Wesley had thought he might develop feelings for this lady, but in reality, it never happened.<br /> "There are surveillance cameras in the house," Wesley stated calmly before descending the stairs into the hallway.<br /> Despite residing in a three-story villa, Wesley's living quarters were confined to the stairwell.<br /> He harbored no resentment towards this arrangement. It was merely a promise. It was just that Taylor failed to appreciate him.<br /> This home held little value that he wished to cling onto.<br /> Retrieving a wooden box from beneath his pillow, Wesley extracted two documents. Casting a fleeting glance at the modest abode he had called home for five years, Wesley smiled faintly.<br /> He thought, "Finally... I'm free."<br /> Pushing the door ajar, Wesley was met by Taylor's piercing gaze. "I've reviewed the surveillance footage. Yes, my mother intended to strike you, but even if she did, what difference would it make?"<br /> "She's a lady. How much could her blows hurt you? Why did you dodge?"<br /> "If you hadn't dodged, my mother wouldn't have tumbled down." Wesley stared at Taylor, unable to comprehend her thought process.<br /> He had no interest in engaging in these arguments. Handing over the two documents to Taylor, he remarked, "The divorce agreement. I've already signed it. Take a look. I'm leaving with nothing."<br /> "With your current influence, there's no need for you to visit the city hall. Someone will handle it for you, right?"<br /> Madison was taken aback. She swiftly snatched the divorce agreement, flipping through it hastily.<br /> The contents were indeed straightforward. Both parties willingly divorced, with Wesley relinquishing all claims and having already signed.<br /> In an instant, Madison's pain seemed to dissipate. "Taylor, sign it quickly. Sign it."<br /> Taylor was still in a daze.<br /> She pondered.<br /> "A divorce agreement? Wesley has already prepared a divorce agreement. On what grounds?"<br /> "What gives him the right to initiate a divorce? All these years, he's done nothing at home, lacking any ambition. Always practicing martial arts, what right does he have to seek a divorce?"<br /> "If anyone should initiate it, it should be me. Moreover, now that I'm back to discussing this matter with him. Could it be that word got out, and Wesley, for the sake of his pride, rushed to prepare a divorce agreement first?"<br /> "It must be so, but... No!"<br /> "Wanting to leave with nothing, is he retreating to advance? As the chairman of the Reed Group, how could I be served with a divorce?"<br /> "Hey Wesley, I never expected this from you. Have I not treated you well enough? You seek a divorce, attempting to turn your retreat into advance, aiming to embarrass me?"<br /> Taylor glared at Wesley. "I'm telling you, it's impossible."<br /> Snatching the divorce agreement, she tore it to shreds.<br /> "Taylor, what are you doing? Such a great opportunity. Why not just sign it and let him leave?" Madison grew anxious.<br /> "Mom, I do intend to divorce this trash, but the decision must come from me. I returned specifically to address this matter."<br /> With that, Taylor produced two documents. "Wesley, remember that it's me who's divorcing you. It's me who no longer wants you. Initially, out of marital obligation, I had considered offering you some compensation. Now, you don't even need to think about it. Sign the divorce agreement and leave my home."<br /> Wesley offered a faint smile as he accepted the divorce agreement.<br /> "What are you laughing at?" Taylor demanded angrily.<br /> Wesley's smile seemed to mock her, fueling her rage.<br /> Ignoring her entirely, Wesley signed the document and handed it over.<br /> "What are you laughing at? Answer me! Who do you think you are?" Taylor roared once more.<br /> Wesley glanced at her before striding towards the exit.<br /> "Stop!" The gent who had accompanied Taylor stepped forward, blocking Wesley's path. "Taylor asked you a question, and... Your previous attitude displeased me. Apologize to Taylor, or I'll have you leave in disgrace!"<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 <br /> "Yes, let him leave in disgrace. He thought he could just hit me and walk away so easily," Madison joined in the commotion, also noticing the gent blocking Wesley's path.<br /> Madison had a keen interest in luxury goods, having frequented various high-end establishments over the years as the Reed family's living conditions improved. The gent was wearing an expensive watch and dressed head to toe in high-end luxury brands.<br /> Seeing Madison's gaze, the gent spoke. "Rest assured, today Wesley must pay the price."<br /> The gent introduced himself, looking at Wesley, "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Henry Clark, the eldest son of the Clark family and the general manager of the Clark Group in the North District."<br /> "From now on, I will accompany Taylor on her journey of life, and I will not allow anyone to bully her."<br /> "My identity carries weight. You should understand that. Now, apologize to Taylor. Apologize! Did you hear me? Apologize!"<br /> Madison's eyes lit up. She hadn't expected the gent before her to hold such a high status. She continued to shout, "Did you hear that? Taylor will be with Mr. Clark from now on. Apologize now."<br /> Wesley glanced at Henry, then at Taylor. He thought, "Have they been together all along?" Wesley had wanted to ask but decided against it because there was no need. He simply gave them a glance and continued walking towards the exit.<br /> "Are you ignoring me?" Henry's face turned cold as he reached out to grab Wesley. Henry's hand froze mid-air as he received a solid hit.<br /> "Until I sign the divorce papers, Taylor and I are still wife and husband. I don't care to investigate whether you two had any intimate relationship during that time, but don't provoke me, or I won't hesitate to make you regret it." Wesley's gaze was icy, and as Henry met his eyes, he felt a twinge of fear and swallowed his words.<br /> Taylor was also stunned. She knew exactly what Wesley had been like over the past five years. There were many surveillance cameras in the house, and she would often check them.<br /> Even when Taylor wasn't home, despite how her family treated Wesley, he always obeyed without complaint, especially towards her. He had never raised his voice, no matter how they treated him.<br /> Today, not only did Wesley dodge when her mother struck, but he also initiated the divorce and now even struck Henry. <br /> Taylor was at a loss for words, thinking, "How could this cowardly gent dare? On what grounds does he dare?"<br /> This change was difficult for Taylor to accept as if she didn't truly understand this guy. The gent who used to be obedient to her, completely submissive, now revealed this side of himself. She watched Wesley walk away in a daze, feeling a strange discomfort in her heart.<br /> "Isn't he leaving with nothing?" Alexis pointed at the wooden box Wesley was holding. "What is he taking with him?"<br /> Madison also realized. Over the past five years, Wesley had always treasured this wooden box, carrying it with him wherever he went. She thought there must be something valuable inside.<br /> Realizing this, Madison hurriedly followed. "Wesley, stop right there, leave the wooden box."<br /> Wesley paused, glanced at Madison, and said, "This is my personal belonging."<br /> "Nonsense, what personal belonging could you possibly have after marrying into the Reed family? Everything you've eaten, worn, and lived in over the years has been provided by the Reed family. Put it down."<br /> As she spoke, Madison reached out to grab the wooden box.<br /> "Ah..." A scream rang out as Madison quickly retracted her hand, a gash appearing on her palm, a crimson liquid dripping.<br /> The wooden box was now stained with the same crimson liquid, trembling lightly in Wesley's hand.<br /> "It's not the right time yet, the day you thirst for this crimson liquid will come," Wesley murmured softly, patting the box before turning to continue his stride towards the exit.<br /> "Monster! A monster!" Madison screamed, causing Taylor and the others to rush out. Seeing the wound in Madison's hand, Taylor was filled with rage.<br /> "Wesley, aren't you going to say something?" Wesley halted once more, contemplating before meeting Taylor's gaze.<br /> "Just stay out of my way from now on. Consider this a warning to you."<br /> "Taylor, that wooden box of his has a mechanism. It must hold something valuable! We can't let him take it with him," Madison, enduring the pain, reminded them.<br /> "Mom, your injury is important. We'll deal with him later. Let me take you to the hospital first." Taylor comforted Madison before calling out to the retreating Wesley.<br /> "Our marriage is over! Yet, you dared to hurt my mother! This won't be the end of it! I will make you regret it!" Ignoring her, Wesley continued walking out.<br /> "Rest assured, I promise he won't see the light of day tomorrow." Henry stepped forward to console. "Let's focus on getting your wound treated first."<br /> "I want him to regret ever existing in this world, to apologize to me in repentance," Madison roared.<br /> "Mom, trust me, I will make him do just that." Taylor looked at Madison with a mix of pity and determination. "Let's go to the hospital first."<br /> In the villa area, Wesley halted, his voice cold. "Get out."<br /> An elderly gent leaped down from a tree, appearing to be in his seventies, yet landing silently from a height of around ten feet.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, your father wants you to come home and take charge."<br /> "He stopped being my father five years ago. He's my enemy."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you misunderstood your father. He had his reasons back then. I swear in my life, once you know the truth, you will forgive him."<br /> "Huh!" Wesley smirked coldly, saying, "I nearly passed away back then. Is that also a misunderstanding?"<br /> The old gent pleaded, "Mr. Harrington, this situation is truly not as you perceive it."<br /> Wesley didn't engage further with the old guy. The events of that year were etched in his memory forever. He was the one who had been abandoned. If not for that incident, why would he have stayed with the Reed family for five years?<br /> Watching Wesley walk away, the old gent had tears silently streaming down his face. "Mr. Harrington, I truly... I truly can't bring myself to speak the truth, but you have misunderstood your father. He also bears burdens and endures pains beyond what an ordinary person can handle."<br /> As Wesley's figure disappeared, the old gent stood up, hesitated for a moment, then dialed a number on his phone.<br /> "Mr. Harrington is now divorced. I've given you the news firsthand. If your daughter is truly together with Mr. Harrington, you must fulfill the promise and let her persuade Mr. Harrington to come home."<br /> After hanging up, a middle-aged gent in a luxurious estate jumped up excitedly. Calming himself, he immediately made another call. "My dear, you're at Yeadeo, right?<br /> "Go find Wesley now. Don't mention the engagement for now. Use every means to get close to him, make him fall in love with you."<br /> "Dad, I don't have time."<br /> "No matter what you are busy with, you must go find Wesley now. No matter what reason you approach him, you must leave a good impression the first time."<br /> "Dad, I'm in trouble right now. If I don't handle it well, I might be good as gone. I have to deal with it immediately. I'm hanging up."<br /> Chapter 3 <br /> The middle-aged gent's voice lowered significantly. "Is there a big incident happening? You didn't tell me? What happened?"<br /> "Quinn Kingsley from Yeadeo, Mr. Kingsley, used our product and now has one foot on the grave. If something really happens to him..."<br /> "You mean Quinn, the uncontested leader of Yeadeo?"<br /> "Yes."<br /> "In that case, you should go find Wesley. Trust me, in this world, there is no problem that Wesley can't solve. As long as he's willing to help, you'll be fine. Listen to me, go find Wesley immediately."<br /> The lady fell silent for a moment before saying, "Okay."<br /> At Yeadeo Harbor, a gent with a large flaxen chain and a watch, sporting a crew cut, hurriedly disembarked, accompanied by a dozen gentlemen.<br /> "Mr. Reed, wherever that trash is, we will find him and tear him apart."<br /> "Yes, that guy dared to harm your mother. We'll make sure he pays for it."<br /> Frank Reed's face turned cold. "Wesley, you coward, thinking you can overturn the world? How dare you touch my mom? Just wait until I find you, you're finished."<br /> "We've found him. Wesley got into a taxi, and our boys followed him."<br /> "Let's go!" Frank waved his hand, leading dozens of men who boarded the car with harpoons, steel pipes, and other weapons.<br /> Inside the taxi, Wesley gazed at the scenery outside, feeling a strange sense of tranquility.<br /> He thought to himself, "I never imagined that while I was secretly paving the way for the Reed family, Taylor, after progressing so rapidly, would start looking down on me more and more."<br /> "Those ladies who know my true identity, which one of them isn't trying to throw themselves at me? Ladies like that don't interest me."<br /> "Being an ordinary gent is truly difficult," Wesley murmured, smiling faintly and deciding not to dwell on these matters anymore. He had important things to attend to and no time to waste on personal affairs.<br /> "Young lad, are you going to Feidgeuo Manor for a job interview?" The driver, curious about Wesley's destination, inquired.<br /> Feidgeuo Manor was Yeadeo's most mysterious private area. Originally a villa area, it was bought at a huge cost five years ago and completely renovated. It was said to have cost a trillion dollars. The former villa area was now Feidgeuo Manor.<br /> "That's my home," Wesley replied nonchalantly.<br /> The driver was taken aback by this revelation, silently cursing Wesley for bragging. After a couple of minutes, the driver regained his composure. "It seems like you and I both prefer to keep a low profile. My car usually gathers dust at home, so I occasionally drive a taxi to experience life."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "My car has been driven by my assistant for the past few years, so it's not gathering dust."<br /> "Haha..." The driver laughed. "We should get together sometime and see whose car is more impressive."<br /> "Sure, whenever we have the time."<br /> As they chatted, the vehicle soon arrived near Feidgeuo Manor, where the massive head of the Feidgeuo Peak protruded, creating a unique landscape in Yeadeo.<br /> The driver asked with a smile, "Since you're the owner here, it's fine if I drive in, right?"<br /> "Of course," Wesley replied.<br /> As soon as Wesley spoke, several cars caught up from behind.<br /> The cars surrounded the one Wesley was in, with the front vehicles braking to force the car to a stop.<br /> When numerous people descended from cars wielding harpoons and steel pipes, the driver's face paled.<br /> Frank and his group got out of the cars, instantly closing in, and without hesitation, started attacking, the steel pipes and harpoons thudding against the car.<br /> Frank's henchman yanked open the door of Wesley's car, poised to stab Wesley with a harpoon, but Wesley swiftly exited the vehicle.<br /> With a firm step on the ground, he launched a swift hit.<br /> A muffled sound echoed as the henchman was hit away.<br /> "What are you looking at?" Frank noticed his henchmen were all staring at him. "All of you, attack together and take him down!"<br /> As he commanded, the henchmen Frank brought with him surged forward.<br /> The taxi driver, trembling, took out his phone to call the police, but Frank glared at him. "I am Frank Reed from Yeadeo Harbor. If you dare, go ahead and make that call."<br /> Frank, leveraging his sister Taylor's status, had been causing trouble in Yeadeo Harbor, and no one dared to provoke him.<br /> Upon hearing Frank's name, the driver hastily put away his phone. "Mr. Reed, I'll just check the time, you guys continue."<br /> "Huh!" Frank snorted coldly, casting his gaze towards the surrounded Wesley.<br /> The sounds of thuds continued to ring out incessantly. Because Wesley was completely surrounded, Frank was unable to see the situation inside clearly, but he could imagine it. After all, in Frank's mind, the henchmen under his command were not to be trifled with.<br /> "Hit him hard for me!"<br /> Another muffled sound and a figure flew out. At that moment, Frank finally saw the situation clearly, and his face turned pale.<br /> Frank knew that Wesley liked to practice martial arts, but he had never expected Wesley to be this skilled. It wasn't Wesley who had been beaten, but his own men by Wesley alone.<br /> Frantically, Frank turned and ran to retrieve a crossbow from the car.<br /> "Clear the way." Frank bellowed, aiming the crossbow at Wesley.<br /> "You scumbag, you think you can fight? Move one more time, and I'll end your life! Surrender!"<br /> Wesley, holding a wooden box, stared at Frank. Ignoring the crossbow in his hand, Wesley said, "Tell your henchmen to back off, or you'll all see the light from above!"<br /> "You're really good at pretending to be tough." Frank took two steps forward. "See the light? Move a muscle and see if I can end your life or not! If you don't have the guts, apologize now!"<br /> Wesley turned his head and looked at the approaching cars, with two expensive ones in the lead, two more in the rear, and another one in the middle.<br /> "Keep acting tough, and I'll put a hole in your head." Frank spoke while glancing at the five cars. "What, looking for help?"<br /> "Let me tell you, those who ride in these cars are not the kind of weaklings like you who rely on connections. With me here, in Yeadeo's social hierarchy, even those who ride in such cars wouldn't dare meddle in this matter. And let me make it clear, without my sister, you're nothing."<br /> <br /> Chapter 4<br /> As Frank's words faded, the five cars came to a halt.<br /> A bodyguard opened the door of the one in the middle, revealing a dazzling pair of shining shoes catching everyone's eye.<br /> The shining shoe encased a beautiful foot. Above, the skirt's hem was adorned with lace.<br /> Then, like a fairy stepping out of a painting, she appeared before everyone's eyes.<br /> The lady was beautiful!<br /> Frank was mesmerized. Ever since the Reed family rose to prominence, he had been surrounded by ladies, but compared to the elegant lady before him, they were worlds apart.<br /> It wasn't just a difference in appearance but an incomparable gap in demeanor.<br /> The lady descending from the Maybach seemed like a celestial being untouched by mortal affairs.<br /> The embodiment of a fairy in the mundane world.<br /> She simply stood there after getting out of the car, perfectly embodying what it meant to be graceful and elegant.<br /> The lady glanced at Wesley, then at Frank.<br /> Frank grinned, saying, "May I have the honor of knowing the name of this esteemed lady? I am Frank..."<br /> The lady spoke calmly. "Disrespect Mr. Harrington, and you're done for."<br /> Her bodyguards, unfazed by Frank's crossbow, swiftly overwhelmed him, sending him crashing to the ground.<br /> The henchmen who had come with Frank, previously defeated by Wesley, now scrambled to their feet and fled in all directions.<br /> Who would dare provoke someone who could afford such a car?<br /> "My sister is Taylor Reed, the chairperson of Reed Group," Frank shouted, clutching his head.<br /> Ignoring him, one of the bodyguards dragged him to the roadside grass while another used a belt to tighten around Frank's neck, exerting pressure.<br /> "Enough, a lesson is all that's needed." Wesley spoke calmly, and only when the lady gestured did the bodyguards release Frank.<br /> Frank lay there, already unconscious.<br /> Wesley turned to the lady. "Who are you?"<br /> "I am Mia Roberts, the general manager of Vinver Business Alliance's Yeadeo branch." She looked at Wesley and continued, "Mr. Harrington, my father mentioned that you have miraculous healing skills and earnestly requested your assistance. A generous reward awaits."<br /> Wesley furrowed his brow slightly, thinking, "There are indeed people who recognize my abilities and status, yet I've rarely intervened in the past five years. Today, shortly after I divorced Taylor, she is here. Whose arrangement is this?"<br /> "Mr. Harrington, my father also mentioned that you are benevolent and has raised the banner of compassion among healers, serving as a role model and benchmark for all in the medical field."<br /> Wesley chuckled, "You have a way with words. Tell me the specifics."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, please get in the car first. I will explain in detail on the way."<br /> The phrase "compassionate healer" held significant weight for Wesley, who had saved countless lives from the brink of death.<br /> Without further ado, he got into the car.<br /> Inside, after Mia brewed coffee for Wesley, she began. "Vinver Business Alliance has a wide range of business operations, and I mainly oversee the health supplement sector, which has seen some success in recent years.<br /> "Recently, Quinn Kingsley started using our medicines, and now there's an accident."<br /> As she spoke, Mia kept her gaze fixed on Wesley.<br /> Quinn, the undisputed leader of Yeadeo, was a figure of immense influence.<br /> Upon hearing this name, Wesley showed no particular reaction. "If the city's leader faces issues with your products, it is indeed a concern. Let's go and see."<br /> With just a sentence, Wesley leaned back in his seat, closing his eyes to rest.<br /> Mia was secretly alarmed, thinking, "He knows who Quinn is, yet he seems indifferent. Who is this Wesley, really? No wonder Dad has instructed me to find a way to win his favor." Mia's inner resistance toward Wesley quietly shifted.<br /> Wesley had piqued her curiosity.<br /> As the vehicle was moving, Wesley's phone rang.<br /> Wesley opened his eyes and took out his phone to see Taylor calling.<br /> Pressing the answer button, he asked, "What's the matter?"<br /> On the other end of the line, Taylor, driving towards Feidgeuo Manor, had a grim expression.<br /> She thought, "Has Wesley ever spoken to me in such a cold tone before? Is he really this heartless right after our divorce?"<br /> Already furious, she snapped. "Wesley, do you even consider yourself a human being?<br /> "Today, not only did you lay hands on my mother, but you also had someone attack my brother. Do you not remember our past at all?"<br /> Wesley calmly replied, "Do we have a past to remember?"<br /> "You truly are a heartless scumbag, just as my mother said. You are an ungrateful and vicious person I raised for five years. Even a pet would wag its tail at me!"<br /> Taylor wanted to continue her tirade, but the phone line had already turned busy.<br /> This only fueled her anger further.<br /> Just now, she had received a call from Frank's underlings, informing her that Wesley had sent people to attack Frank and even intended to end him.<br /> Taylor wanted to demand answers, but...<br /> As Taylor was clutching her fists, her gaze turned icy.<br /> After a moment, she picked up her phone again. "Wesley, you are so narrow-minded. You have no ambition. Any lady would steer clear of you."<br /> "Just because I dumped you, you are doing this on purpose to make me feel sick. Pretending to be aloof and seeking revenge? Do you even deserve it?"<br /> "In Yeadeo, squashing you would be as easy as squashing an ant. You're asking for it! If anything happens to my brother, I will make you wish you were ending!"<br /> Her furious voice message echoed in the car.<br /> Wesley chuckled and put away his phone.<br /> Beside him, Mia seemed contemplative. Before coming, she had already ordered a swift investigation into Wesley.<br /> She was curious, thinking, "How could someone valued by my father could be the one 'marrying into' the Reed family."<br /> Being tactful, Mia chose not to ask and pretended not to have heard.<br /> After about forty minutes, they arrived at the Kingsley Manor.<br /> The Kingsley family members, upon seeing Mia alight from the car, all wore grim expressions.<br /> Mia greeted them with a smile, "Everyone, this is Wesley Harrington, Mr. Harrington, the miraculous healer I specially invited to treat Mr. Kingsley."<br /> "Him? The gent who married into the Reed family?"<br /> "A miraculous healer? Is he even worthy? Are healers so worthless now?"<br /> "A useless gent who mooches off of the Reed family? How dare he call himself a miraculous healer? Truly a joke among all jokes."<br /> Chapter 5<br /> <br /> Amanda Kingsley, Quinn's granddaughter, stared coldly at Wesley and Mia.<br /> This lady, dressed in a smart suit, also held significant fame in Yeadeo, overseeing the region's business activities, including investment attraction and various local business negotiations.<br /> Amanda had a favorable view of Taylor, who had risen swiftly in recent times, and they had interacted frequently.<br /> She was aware of Wesley's existence and had advised Taylor to part ways with him early on.<br /> But Amanda never imagined that Mia would bring someone like Wesley, a complete waste, and claim he was a miraculous healer.<br /> Glaring at Mia, she said, "Mia, once my grandfather is well, it's best for your Roberts family to leave Yeadeo."<br /> "As for you..." She glanced at Wesley. "I will advise Taylor to divorce you. You have deceived Taylor's feelings and now shamelessly made your way into my family. You are a despicable creature."<br /> After reprimanding Mia and Wesley, she turned to an elderly gent beside her, and her tone and attitude completely changed. "Mr. Phillips, sorry to trouble you. My grandfather is inside, please."<br /> Mia looked at the elderly gent, who was already in his twilight years, feeling deeply shocked.<br /> Scott Phillips, the 38th generation heir of the Healing Clinic, was now ninety-two years old.<br /> Renowned as a miraculous healer, he was a respected figure in the medical community of Yeadeo and even nationally.<br /> He no longer conducted consultations personally due to his old age. Mia had visited him specifically to pay her respects once she had arrived in Yeadeo but had not met Scott.<br /> She never expected Scott to appear in person. It was understandable, as Quinn held a prominent position in the city. Despite the profound influence of the Phillips family, they still had to show respect to Quinn.<br /> Mia looked at Wesley, feeling conflicted and thinking, "Dad has confidently claimed that Wesley has extraordinary abilities, but does he really?"<br /> She harbored doubts, but out of propriety, Mia spoke. "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the trouble."<br /> Wesley smiled, "It's fine. As long as the person can be healed."<br /> His open-mindedness impressed Mia.<br /> After about half an hour, Amanda emerged from the room. All eyes instantly turned towards her.<br /> It was evident that Amanda had wailed out, with traces of tears still visible.<br /> "Amanda, how is it?" A middle-aged gent anxiously asked her.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family who had rushed back also focused their attention on her.<br /> "Mr. Phillips said that there's little hope of recovery. He could only use acupuncture to wake grandfather for half an hour. When grandfather wakes up, let's all go in and see if he has any final instructions."<br /> Everyone was shocked.<br /> "How could this be?"<br /> "Is Mr. Phillips also helpless?"<br /> The members of the Kingsley family found it hard to accept this reality, especially since Quinn had always treated his juniors well.<br /> The thought of Quinn departing saddened some, and tears silently fell.<br /> Publicly, Quinn's status was the foundation of the Kingsley family's prominence in Yeadeo.<br /> If Quinn were to pass away, the Kingsley family would undoubtedly decline.<br /> The atmosphere within the Kingsley family was somber.<br /> Amanda looked at her family members, opened her mouth, but said nothing, silently turning back into the room.<br /> "Stop crying," A middle-aged gent said sternly, "Dad wouldn't want to see you all in tears. If he's really leaving, we mustn't let him worry about us. Pull yourselves together."<br /> After these words, the middle-aged gent also entered the room.<br /> The younger members of the Kingsley family wiped their tears vigorously, trying to force smiles, but in truth, they looked better at crying than pretending to be happy.<br /> Mia's spirit plummeted as she realized the gravity of the situation. Even if an ordinary person passed away from consuming health supplements, it spelled big trouble for those who sold them. And when the deceased happened to be Quinn, the stakes were even higher.<br /> She understood that it would be difficult for this branch to stay in Yeadeo, and even the headquarters might face repercussions.<br /> "Let's go in and have a look." Wesley glanced at Mia. "There might still be a chance."<br /> "Ah..." Mia stared at Wesley in surprise. Seeing him already heading towards the room, she quickly followed suit.<br /> Inside the room, the members of the Kingsley family stood around the mattress, maintaining a certain distance.<br /> Scott lit the alcohol lamp and took out the needles, his expression solemn.<br /> He looked at the members of the Kingsley family. "Think about what you want to say to Mr. Kingsley later. Once you're ready, let me know, and then I'll proceed with the acupuncture."<br /> As he said this, tears welled up in many eyes.<br /> "If you don't mind, let me take a look. I have a way." Wesley spoke up, drawing everyone's attention.<br /> Amanda's face darkened. "Who let you in? Get out!"<br /> "Mia, have you lost your mind? Tricked by this trash and actually brought him here as a miracle healer. Get out with him! I'll settle the score with you in a couple of days."<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, at a loss for words.<br /> "Even Mr. Phillips is unable to reverse the situation. What use are you? Get out." Another younger member of the Kingsley family angrily rebuked.<br /> The middle-aged gent added, "We're in no mood right now. You better leave immediately."<br /> "I understand your narrow-mindedness," Wesley continued, "But as a healer, once I see a patient, I cannot stand by and watch him draw his last breath."<br /> "Wesley, you're quite the charlatan. Do you really want to be gone right now?" Amanda's voice was filled with anger.<br /> "Amanda, let me say a few words," Scott interjected, and Amanda fell silent.<br /> Looking at Wesley, Scott began. "Young lad, at my age, I've seen a lot and have a broad perspective. Today, however, I find it hard to remain indifferent. I practiced medicine from the age of sixteen until I stopped seeing patients for a total of seventy years."<br /> "I've saved countless patients from various illnesses. I never easily declare a patient's fate, nor do I believe I have the right to do so."<br /> "But from your recent remarks, it seems like you're accusing me of such actions. Young people wanting to make a name for themselves by stepping on the shoulders of their predecessors, I can understand."<br /> "But this kind of behavior displeases me."<br /> "My displeasure, what does it mean to you? Do you understand?"<br /> "Even if you are a healer, your career will be ruined because of this."<br /> Chapter 6 <br /> In the face of Scott's veiled threats, Wesley simply smiled and brushed them off.<br /> Looking at Scott, he asked, "I've always focused on the issue at hand rather than attacking individuals. I have a few questions for you. If you can't administer the needles, how long do you think Quinn can hold on?"<br /> "Seven days, but he will remain unconscious," Scott replied bluntly.<br /> "Then let me ask you this, is there anyone in the world with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "Outrageous," Amanda coldly interjected, "Mr. Phillips is unparalleled in his medical expertise."<br /> Scott glanced at Amanda. "Amanda, let me handle this question."<br /> Continuing to address Wesley, he said, "I don't underestimate myself, nor do I overestimate. There are countless talented individuals in the world, like stars in the sky. I may not dare claim to be the best in medical skills, but those who surpass me are few."<br /> "That means there are some," Wesley calmly remarked, causing Scott's expression to shift slightly, "Indeed, there are."<br /> "Then let me ask you this. Do you think within seven days, the Kingsley family won't find someone with better medical skills than you?"<br /> "If they do find someone, do you believe there is an illness that you cannot cure, but this person can?"<br /> Wesley's questions were sharp and resounding.<br /> Scott's face changed once more as he was rendered speechless.<br /> "Even if there is, that person will never be you." Amanda's face turned icy. "Now get out. Don't spout your eloquence here. Your deceitful behavior is repulsive."<br /> "Your understanding of me is merely hearsay, isn't it?" Wesley retorted, his gaze mocking Amanda, "Has your background and education taught you such arrogance and prejudice?"<br /> "Arrogance?" Amanda's face grew colder as she disdainfully looked at Wesley. "Prejudice?<br /> "Did I say something wrong just now? You are nothing but stagnant waste, a parasite living off others. If it weren't for Taylor, you would have starved on the streets long ago."<br /> "Relying on sweet words, deceiving Taylor. She, with her kind heart, can't bear to divorce you, but don't push your luck. If it weren't for Taylor's sake, you would have been sent out long ago."<br /> Scott interrupted Amanda, "Amanda, although I find this lad a bit annoying, what he said does hold some truth. There are indeed individuals with better medical skills than me. Your grandfather can hold on for seven days. Try reaching out to see if someone can come over. I'll help you make connections."<br /> "If it really doesn't work out after seven days, I'll administer the needles to your grandfather. However, at that point, I can only buy you three minutes."<br /> As soon as Scott spoke, the faces of the Kingsley family members grew even more solemn. True healers were rare and not easily summoned.<br /> While the Kingsley family had connections in Yeadeo, their influence waned outside of it.<br /> "Mr. Phillips, please administer the needles. Life has its ups and downs, and we understand that. Just buy my father a bit more time." The middle-aged gent spoke up.<br /> The rest of the members of the Kingsley family nodded in agreement.<br /> Amanda looked at Scott. "Mr. Phillips, please."<br /> "In that case, please have everyone unrelated leave. I need silence," Scott calmly stated.<br /> Amanda glared at Wesley, her eyes speaking volumes without a word.<br /> The unrelated individuals were, naturally, Wesley and Mia.<br /> Mia glanced at Wesley, intending to leave, but she suddenly hesitated.<br /> Instead of leaving, Wesley moved forward.<br /> "What are you doing?" A young member of the Kingsley family stepped forward with a stern expression, pushing Wesley.<br /> In one swift motion, Wesley executed a clean shoulder throw, toppling the young gent to the ground, his own expression turning cold.<br /> "A bunch of fools! If it weren't for my teacher's teachings about not turning a blind eye to those in need, I wouldn't bother with you ignorant lot," Wesley remarked with disdain.<br /> As Wesley effortlessly took down one individual from the Kingsley family, the others seemed slow to react.<br /> By the time they realized what was happening, Wesley had already picked up the needle next to Scott and casually flicked his wrist.<br /> The needle flew out of his hand, piercing Quinn's temple, followed by a second needle, a third needle, and so on.<br /> "What are you doing? Stop!" Amanda's voice rose in urgency, echoed by the rest of the Kingsley family members who rushed forward to restrain Wesley.<br /> "Stay back, everyone. Wait." Scott suddenly stood up, blocking the others. "Let him try."<br /> Amanda and the others were left dumbfounded, thinking, "What does this mean?"<br /> Despite their confusion, they heeded Scott's words.<br /> After Scott stopped the members of the Kingsley family, he fixed his gaze on Wesley.<br /> Wesley proceeded to use eighteen needles in succession, symbolizing the levels of pain.<br /> Even if someone had descended into the depths of hell, they must be brought back.<br /> The final needle, also piercing a vital point, caused Quinn's body to tremble suddenly, resonating with the previous eighteen needles.<br /> Scott's eyes widened, his body trembling slightly. His reaction left Amanda and the others even more puzzled, but none dared to interrupt.<br /> Moments later, Wesley placed a palm on Quinn's chest, causing all eighteen needles to be shaken off. When all the needles landed on the ground, the part of the skin where the needles had pierced turned dark.<br /> Wesley then dragged Quinn to the edge of the mattress, flipped him over with his head facing downwards, and gave him a firm pat on the back.<br /> Quinn spat out a mouthful of black liquid. When Wesley flipped him back to lie flat, his complexion had regained some color.<br /> "The Hand of Darkness... It's the Hand of Darkness!" Scott exclaimed with excitement, his body quivering, "It's the Hand that descends into the dark world, snatching people from the hands of the Evil!"<br /> "You do have some knowledge, recognizing the Hand of Darkness." Wesley glanced at Scott.<br /> Scott's gaze towards Wesley had undergone a drastic change. He respectfully clasped his hands together.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thirty years ago, I had the honor of attending a teaching conference held by Mr. Vanderbilt. I saw the Hand of Darkness, but my limited aptitude only allowed me to grasp the basics."<br /> "I have been blind and ignorant. I apologize for my earlier offenses. Please forgive me, Mr. Harrington."<br /> The Mr. Vanderbilt Scott referred to was Wesley's teacher, Ulysses Vanderbilt. He generously imparted his skills to others, but the ability to learn depended on one's innate talent.<br /> In this world, few could learn Ulysses' skills.<br /> Scott had been fortunate to receive guidance from Ulysses, which had elevated his medical skills. However, the Hand of Darkness, a miraculous ability, was beyond his comprehension.<br /> Wesley smiled faintly, "Your actions earlier are understandable. I appreciate your words."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, you must be an exceptional disciple of Mr. Vanderbilt, possessing unparalleled magnanimity. Impressive," Scott continued.<br /> "Enough with the flattery at your age."<br /> "You are mistaken, Mr. Harrington. Every word I speak is sincere."<br /> Mia, Amanda, and the others stood bewildered by the unfolding situation.<br /> "Mr. Phillips... he... he..." Amanda's words faltered.<br /> Scott turned to the members of the Kingsley family. "Meeting Mr. Harrington was Quinn's luck. His symptoms have been cured by Mr. Harrington. With a few days of rest, he will be fine."<br /> The waste Taylor had previously said was called Mr. Harrington by Scott!<br /> Recalling their previous attitudes, Amanda hurriedly apologized, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> The members of the Kingsley family all apologized in unison, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."<br /> Chapter 7 <br /> With a faint smile, Wesley remarked, "As family members of a patient, your actions earlier are understandable. There's no need for such formality."<br /> Amanda's perplexity deepened as she thought, "Where is the cowardly waste that Taylor described? This display of magnanimity and breadth is far from it."<br /> Mia, too, felt a shiver of realization, thinking, "No wonder Dad has insisted on my proximity to Wesley.<br /> This guy..."<br /> She gazed at Wesley, her curiosity piqued, a sense of exploration stirring within her.<br /> "Mia has brought you here, Mr. Harrington, to cure my grandfather. The Kingsley family will never forget this act. However, considering that my grandfather's ailment stemmed from the health supplements produced by the Vinver Business Alliance, we will be conducting an investigation into it."<br /> Amanda continued, looking at Wesley, "What do you think... of this approach?"<br /> It was Mia who had invited Wesley, so Amanda had grown wiser, refraining from asking for a direct punishment of the Vinver Business Alliance.<br /> As Mia heard Amanda's words, her heart skipped a beat, realizing trouble was brewing.<br /> "On the way here, Ms. Roberts briefed me on the situation. You conducted experiments on mice, correct?"<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes, the health supplements we received were exclusively provided by the Roberts family. There were no similar cases on the market, so we used mice for testing.<br /> "All the mice that ingested this supplement were gone."<br /> She looked at Mia and added, her voice turning colder, "Before the experiment, I specifically contacted Mia to inquire about the testing methods during the development phase, which involved mice.<br /> "There have been individuals eyeing my grandfather's position, some even wishing for his demise. I never imagined that the Vinver Business Alliance, which I attracted for investment, would become a weapon in someone else's hands."<br /> "Do you have any of the remaining medicine?" Wesley inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> Amanda nodded. "Yes."<br /> "Bring some over."<br /> Immediately, someone fetched the medicine. After it was brought to him, Wesley took out a supplement and swallowed it directly.<br /> This scene left Amanda and the others dumbfounded.<br /> Scott, too, was bewildered. "Mr. Harrington, what are you doing?"<br /> Wesley smiled, "Just proving that this medicine is not toxic."<br /> "Mr. Harrington, thank you," Mia thanked sincerely, feeling like crying at that moment.<br /> Amanda, with a puzzled expression, looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, are you suggesting that my grandfather's condition wasn't caused by the Vinver Business Alliance's medicine? What about the mice?"<br /> The rest were equally puzzled.<br /> "Yes, but not entirely," Wesley said, leaving everyone even more bewildered.<br /> Mia's emotions were like a rollercoaster ride, from relief to immediate tension.<br /> "This medicine itself is not toxic, but when taken with another substance made from a certain plant, it results in Quinn's condition. The mice would die immediately, while humans could endure a few more days."<br /> Wesley continued to explain, "The plant used in this concoction is originally meant for crafting slow-acting toxins, not for human consumption."<br /> Looking at Amanda, Wesley said, "During this period, whoever had access to your grandfather and the mice will better understand why these events occurred."<br /> The gaze of members of the Kingsley family immediately focused on a lady.<br /> Amanda, somewhat incredulous, looked at her. "Can you offer an explanation?"<br /> The lady was the wife of Amanda's deceased brother. She found it hard to accept, as did the rest of the Kingsley family.<br /> This lady had been named the exemplary lady who served her family well this year, not due to her connection with the Kingsley family but because she genuinely deserved it.<br /> "What do you mean? Amanda, what explanation do you want from me?"<br /> The lady stared at Amanda. "Am I the only one who had access to Grandfather and the mice? You, and you... and you, who didn't have access?"<br /> "You all claim to treat me as family. Since I married into the Kingsley family, I have worked diligently, contributing my share even if not acknowledged."<br /> "Amanda, it has been over a year since your brother passed, and I never once considered remarrying. Now, just because of his words, you demand an explanation from me?"<br /> Pointing at Wesley, the lady questioned, "Just because he accuses me of poisoning, you suspect me? Tell me, did I poison him?" The lady glared at Wesley.<br /> "I am merely analyzing the facts. As for concluding this case, it's not within my purview," Wesley addressed the members of the Kingsley family, saying, "You should conduct a thorough investigation into this matter.<br /> "I will write a prescription. Have Quinn take it on time, and he will recover in seven days."<br /> Amanda hurried to fetch paper and pen while Wesley prepared the prescription. Once done, he was ready to leave.<br /> Amanda said hurriedly, "Mr. Harrington, I've already made arrangements for lunch."<br /> "No need," Wesley smiled.<br /> The Kingsley family sought to build closer ties with Wesley, given his extraordinary medical skills. Wesley was well aware of this.<br /> Looking at Amanda and the others, Wesley remarked, "In the future, if you encounter any difficult medical cases that others cannot solve, seek me out. Remember, cases others cannot solve."<br /> The gaze of the Kingsley family members toward Wesley changed once again. Many renowned healers had eccentric personalities and were difficult to engage.<br /> They hadn't expected Wesley to possess such remarkable medical skills without any airs.<br /> As Wesley prepared to depart, the members of the Kingsley family did not dare to insist on his stay, so they accompanied him outside.<br /> "Oh, how could we forget such an important matter? Amanda, what about the consultation fee?" The middle-aged gent inquired, looking at Amanda.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the oversight. Please wait a moment." Amanda hurried back inside and soon returned with a bank card in hand.<br /> "Mr. Harrington, there's one million dollars in here."<br /> Without hesitation, Wesley accepted the bank card and boarded Mia's car.<br /> During the journey, Mia boldly looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, you've helped me immensely. Can I treat you to a meal? Don't decline in a hurry. It's not a fancy restaurant, but it will leave you wanting more. It's a small place on the street, with only eight plates of noodles served each day, each plate containing different ingredients.<br /> "I managed to secure a reservation. Are you interested?"<br /> Wesley thought, "Eight Plates of Noodles? Ah, Aaron's restaurant. It has been a while since I visited those old friends."<br /> Wesley nodded. "Let's go then."<br /> The restaurant, Eight Plates of Noodles, was located on Chanxold Street near the Yeadeo First Central Hospital.<br /> The establishment was small, serving only eight plates of noodles each day at a price of 10 thousand dollars each. Vernoic's television culinary program had specifically covered this incident.<br /> Reservations were a must to secure a plate.<br /> The restaurant's owner had a mysterious background. While the specifics were unknown, a high-ranking noble from the capital of Vernoic, Kingsland, had caused a scene there once.<br /> He had attempted to force his way in without a reservation. Although this incident hadn't been reported, rumors suggested that a garbage truck had to be called to dispose of the intruder's remains, as he was too shattered to be removed by conventional means.<br /> Since then, no one dared to cause trouble.<br /> On their way, Mia introduced Wesley to the background story.<br /> "Mr. Turner, two plates of noodles." Mia called out once they arrived.<br /> Aaron Turner didn't respond but visibly paused upon seeing Wesley beside Mia.<br /> A faint smile appeared on his usually stoic face. Though the flesh on the face seemed stiff, it was indeed a smile. "Coming right up."<br /> Mia glanced at Aaron with a hint of surprise, thinking, "When did he become so warm and enthusiastic? His tone seemed a bit agitated earlier, didn't it?"<br /> Soon enough, Aaron brought two plates of noodles to the table. One steaming hot and the other devoid of any warmth.<br /> As Mia observed Aaron placing the plate without steam in front of Wesley, her expression changed slightly.<br /> It was a plate of instant noodles having soaked in cold water, with the seasoning barely dissolved.<br /> She felt a sense of panic. Mia had wanted to leave a good impression on Wesley, which was why she had chosen this place.<br /> However, Aaron had served such a plate of noodles.<br /> She dared not question Aaron. The type of noodles served here was not determined by the guests but by Aaron's mood.<br /> "This girl named Mia is quite something, living up to her name, and quite kind-hearted," Aaron remarked, looking at Wesley.<br /> "Get lost," Wesley retorted, using his fork to pick up the noodles and devouring them.<br /> Mia's face turned pale instantly. Disrespecting Aaron was akin to risking Wesley's life.<br /> To her astonishment, Aaron chuckled, tears welling up in his eyes.<br /> He wiped them away. "Alright, I'll leave you to your meal."<br /> Before departing, he gave Mia a thumbs-up. "Seize the opportunity."<br /> The eight plates of noodles symbolized the eight comrades who had faced life and life-threatening situations together.<br /> Wesley ate voraciously. Initially, they had only one pack of instant noodles to share among the eight of them, forcing them to divide it.<br /> Despite the circumstances, they devoured the noodles joyfully.<br /> Aaron had promised that once they survived, each one would have the most delicious plate of noodles.<br /> However, five of the eight had perished.<br /> Wesley had come dangerously close to life-threatening situations, but managed to cling to life.<br /> For him, the plate of noodles was not food but the bond of friendship that had shielded him from harm.<br /> "Do you... know each other?" Mia couldn't help but ask, her voice low and curious.<br /> "Some things are better left unknown," Wesley replied.<br /> Mia nodded in understanding, falling silent as they continued eating noodles. She couldn't help stealing glances at Wesley throughout the meal.<br /> This gent had piqued her curiosity even more.<br /> "Wesley, I see. No wonder you agreed to the divorce so readily. You've already found someone else outside."<br /> A sharp voice interrupted their meal.<br /> Taylor approached with a cold expression, accompanied by Henry. | Adoread Romance story | 106 | https://facebook.com/61557113391558 | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1713250800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846808 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446611 | 1735168083 | 890 | 1426859107917810 | 4 | 1.0750287970217E+15 | 1715065200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120206467056180695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1712240564 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434887251_3273516259616813_4965928032027185860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ITie4m6mDmcQ7kNvgF39Sy7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAcTA20T57nzysouEuK_o7pZp3Y0XqyL2fgucP3yDHGEg&oe=6663EDC2 | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434948003_814909497119687_9211098532922127326_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x7WiDOdWsTYQ7kNvgESVFnJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBulFosd9SXN4G0tMRKNSznqK_fnZdYowVwZ6iongagTg&oe=66640C13 | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846735 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446608 | 1735168083 | 890 | 792598246074605 | 1 | 9.3007547859996E+14 | 1713078000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108840065363755 | 0 | InvestmentsGurus | 120210205957870131 | investmentguru.com | Learn more | NONE | image | 40+ Bizarre Yet Funny Pictures Captured By Air Travelers | Who said flying has to be stressful? In some cases, the experience can be a fun-filled adventure that can make anyone marvel at how far traveling has come. On the other hand, the airport is so busy that it's a bit easy to miss some interesting shenanigans. That is why this list has been curated; to.... | https://investmentguru.com/koen/45-times-air-travel-gave-people-more-than-what-they-signed-up-for | 1712943702 | 1.0884006536376E+14 | InvestmentsGurus | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435696997_399890499481913_7225301040369759356_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1X8qisXzEV0Q7kNvgHACsU3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAdx0rM6yr6yq_ncTaDSKR0ZTHB_TB1G9lRdafX0G-_Gw&oe=6663FF8F | person_profile | 0 | InvestmentsGurus | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437534638_828284845757346_7001030961728745663_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YzvS_jqizyEQ7kNvgGEQ_ts&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA6w6JNQ5Wl1BkcDFzDpthYx0q7De3dD9JEsIXDa1nHlw&oe=6663EDA4 | 0 | 3 | From a horse joining a flight to a pilot taking a power nap, air travelers shared some bizarre yet funny pictures they took during their flights. | InvestmentsGurus | 186 | https://facebook.com/InvestmentsGurus1 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712905200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846736 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446608 | 1735168084 | 890 | 1155020455515557 | 1 | 9.5970766861168E+14 | 1713337200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 423699414390350 | 0 | Hiya toys | 120207249491720645 | NONE | multi_images | 1712923163 | 4.2369941439035E+14 | Hiya toys | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435976352_801321792055466_1595975461543692487_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2Ut_VxKwS8cQ7kNvgGxiOnX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCqGofSPcGJK_25CrKu3hVhnx7qY4QmitFDD9OGbwzjFA&oe=6663EC31 | person_profile | 0 | Hiyatoys | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436256028_1569613510262401_5553837892094066092_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yM3XGFvbrzsQ7kNvgF9V6iL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCpZJ1-9NPTCVUuVpEurVpF_GbtD8MVg12dVDyyygfQmg&oe=6663EC60 | 0 | 3 | EXQUISITE SUPER Series Daryl 1/12 scale action figure from 【The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon】now joins Hiya Toys. <br /> <br /> Story follows【The Walking Dead】, Daryl wakes up on the southern coast of France, where he encounters Isabelle, a nun, and a child named Laurent. Nuns believe that Laurent is the key to saving the world from walkers. One day, Codron's men attack the abbey. Faced with the last request of the elder num, Daryl is determined to protect Laurent and Isabelle on their journey to an outpost called 'The Nest'. In return, Isabelle has pledged to assist Daryl in finding a port. Amidst the multiple crises, they support each other to break through the siege. <br /> <br /> This brand new Daryl action figure stands 15.8cm tall, faithfully reproducing the facial details of Daryl from 【The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon】. Dressed in a black trench coat, mud-covered marching boots, and a detachable canvas bag slung diagonally, all faithfully recreated even in the 1/12 scale.<br /> The clothes, jeans and belts are all made from real cloth, ensuring both superior poseability and aesthetic appeal. Daryl was equipped with a harpoon, a crossbow, a rifle and his old buddy morning star, always accompanying Daryl at the forefront of challenges. <br /> With a highly posable body and 6x interchangeable hand parts, allowing enthusiasts to recreate a variety of action poses from the series. Additionally includes a special stand for this series is also included, featuring a black base adorned with the series logo, providing an immersive experience of the most thrilling bloodbath!<br /> <br /> Price: 89.99 USD<br /> Release time: 2025Q1<br /> <br /> Check this on: <br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hiyatoys.com%2Fproducts%2Fhiya-exquisite-super-1-12-scale-6-inch-the-walking-dead-daryl-dixon-daryl-action-figure&h=AT0pT1D-u5CC6wI7O3ky9KolrbSRAIL2-VUHEUhB6TFoasadIH8hPlsdfNhCe7jns6M82_C4DKKu0JsoKQuM3lFI05moRtZNEByQLllbI14g5Wk2ZyceCsNI6xI-OEXP-JvxcrBn1tMM1Lulk8RJr-0sVT6Exw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.hiyatoys.com/products/hiya-exquisite-super-1-12-scale-6-inch-the-walking-dead-daryl-dixon-daryl-action-figure</a><br /> <br /> and check local shop on:<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hiyatoys.com%2Fpages%2Fwhere-to-buy&h=AT1BYxa-8vTII7apnIHx0BWoy4O6rpcsa17ftw6iF1L3PfpcO4Y62inWNqzRHKE2MtuZR3NqnKJZnW6CQsxIgPxt5d--j2JfuGBACbg1JPW8lXegLk0BiAvOCfwpzItyT0qDhfvZ37GrzleU2A61-T_l0yv15g" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.hiyatoys.com/pages/where-to-buy</a><br /> #actionfigure #hiyatoys #figurephotography #collectibles #toys <br /> <br /> 🏆Hiya Giveaway: Make comments on this post to win our EXQUISITE SUPER Series The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon Daryl action figure!<br /> End Date: 2024 April 26th<br /> Winner will be announced via DM | Hiya toys | 20083 | https://facebook.com/Hiyatoys | 0 | 1712905200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1846753 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446609 | 1735168084 | 890 | 924379122501052 | 1 | 9.8506914332696E+14 | 1712818800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 118879321169142 | 0 | Popular Novels | 120209495234320155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | video | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712488795 | 1.1887932116914E+14 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435756834_1100704034514755_8927988907118565585_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_o8q-SgoFhgQ7kNvgFc1sc3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDG9gAIP4i_zPmz28rzW0CeSO0oWhHf07VAXaEn4I7Wkg&oe=66640501 | person_profile | 0 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436317475_396625543167632_4850598482548573393_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kuPDYperOioQ7kNvgFET_wq&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA57CpuFx-zz1hR3UcesfqIK_-W7-e6SBwkmZjULHQtNw&oe=66640DAE | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.” | Popular Novels | 15 | https://facebook.com/100091852266052 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712473200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846754 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446609 | 1735168084 | 890 | 985653822929445 | 1 | 1.458966541373E+15 | 1712818800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 127476320437895 | 0 | Joylit Novel | 120209495234210155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | video | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712488767 | 1.274763204379E+14 | Joylit Novel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436447050_353054793823580_1725770958331990521_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aBeeNi-9oakQ7kNvgFYBTIU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAl9xH0U--CGP3yma8buKCtKHbGTgeG1U-2rZnXj6L0Nw&oe=6663E507 | person_profile | 0 | Joylit Novel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436378824_950134930121106_6978267147722748193_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MB0QnjRUNHMQ7kNvgGGZbh-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAyT6oUOqQixLQ36uQwsFXTW3YAciBt5KEyp9KW2QAecw&oe=6663ECDB | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.” | Joylit Novel | 176 | https://facebook.com/61550512629703 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712473200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846755 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446609 | 1735168088 | 890 | 2143215356017195 | 1 | 9.3227103859781E+14 | 1712818800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 118879321169142 | 0 | Popular Novels | 120209495233590155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | video | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712488821 | 1.1887932116914E+14 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435489466_435182998917069_7873664016896123895_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mYEBV7eB_YcQ7kNvgE5JtH-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDdXCKSQyhOLStvQiGLzIg2qMaEs4eQSIdtf5mucNhJmw&oe=6663FF68 | person_profile | 0 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435489716_392724340197188_6363041643725959294_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WzLF_H2lRbUQ7kNvgHCb9oC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAt2ZhgbTqUQnNvlA4V051FEPDZQeetdMIirk5eyrlxcw&oe=6663E3AC | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.” | Popular Novels | 15 | https://facebook.com/100091852266052 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712473200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846756 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446609 | 1735168088 | 890 | 3639566659638725 | 1 | 7.4001440492928E+14 | 1712818800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 118879321169142 | 0 | Popular Novels | 120209495233560155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | video | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712488713 | 1.1887932116914E+14 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434430231_2851278625011842_6083822264475891880_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ETB9i2nklDMQ7kNvgExBZdJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBbQsM3JJBjTGdUuPYkSWdVIH3ZSRh1X1GxpQiXhMaI8g&oe=6663F9D9 | person_profile | 0 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434420659_1122103208916028_8474788516124323439_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NCC2Yr28lhgQ7kNvgGHrl70&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD6xV6gd4UmTgXH-B4R9_QSki0SV4n-OsPhaMkosfonvQ&oe=6664148A | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.” | Popular Novels | 15 | https://facebook.com/100091852266052 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712473200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846757 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446609 | 1735168089 | 890 | 270909652654045 | 1 | 3.8574777761516E+14 | 1712818800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 118879321169142 | 0 | Popular Novels | 120209495233020155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | video | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712488791 | 1.1887932116914E+14 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436270720_957515095786467_875208830111518690_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=I7-W1XUng4oQ7kNvgHMpp1W&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB4yBzo9KWqtVF-7ET-megQ2Mj9sXPBU8yuRrTiTahhDQ&oe=6663EEA1 | person_profile | 0 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436769217_736416918685784_4702726399574719986_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=V00txDIvUmwQ7kNvgGnIBQ5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA1TLjpv-lGVXjbcbp4GCYHYmZEKHv_IubCJY7hBtUn5A&oe=66640ABD | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.” | Popular Novels | 15 | https://facebook.com/100091852266052 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712473200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1846762 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446609 | 1735168091 | 890 | 899110698569459 | 1 | 7.2547447579548E+15 | 1712473200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 118879321169142 | 0 | Popular Novels | 120209419169640155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | video | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712326282 | 1.1887932116914E+14 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436035257_901841738407194_7711667380692730888_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3VFkGHFtJG4Q7kNvgG2p8PU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBA7EklOubN0fojl2Q6XHvzMgpS7krNxSHUT5Ir3ah7DQ&oe=6663E1EC | person_profile | 0 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435922235_1900721430365697_1554284382112412190_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7HoDqn7QWh8Q7kNvgEbphan&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB4gd3TuhYMhsM91MBw-5Oq7Sn7qTJTzeBTFqHLOcicBA&oe=666413CA | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.” | Popular Novels | 15 | https://facebook.com/100091852266052 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846763 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446609 | 1735168091 | 890 | 731699382457630 | 1 | 8.5696374311434E+14 | 1712818800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 118879321169142 | 0 | Popular Novels | 120209419169670155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | image | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712326265 | 1.1887932116914E+14 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436007253_1638961556933014_7854473355218566919_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=iuFF7uVGxEgQ7kNvgH9I5LL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAgolDdjp1mM5MgAJBZovG81xVpsh39GUww5y3eEiiaww&oe=6663E369 | person_profile | 0 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/426274422_382024461412464_6266992584301061851_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QtduNqO2cA0Q7kNvgFCDytR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAYA68DIYuIEftU0Yc1yEu9rNhWIMAJOk1ngZfvp11lCA&oe=66640CD9 | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.” | Popular Novels | 15 | https://facebook.com/100091852266052 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846764 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446609 | 1735168091 | 890 | 936493444846842 | 1 | 2.0278664542667E+15 | 1712473200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 127476320437895 | 0 | Joylit Novel | 120209419169720155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | video | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712326279 | 1.274763204379E+14 | Joylit Novel | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436118102_3588457931415580_2197013368018586215_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aS0W6yYioXQQ7kNvgFWagU9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYButZx-5WfditRJpnKCuyIgvUfa-DmCbUNV1zl4EUvXlQ&oe=6663EBAA | person_profile | 0 | Joylit Novel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434841722_374223625585496_8059407283685938333_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=FivmFgUsiCIQ7kNvgEPj_Sc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA_Ia2r_bvj6IF8gmuR2SRn1bPPcOTO3m5vMpqAtGsr-A&oe=66640C5A | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.” | Joylit Novel | 176 | https://facebook.com/61550512629703 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846765 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446609 | 1735168091 | 890 | 950909703150640 | 1 | 7.6794680530618E+14 | 1712818800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 118879321169142 | 0 | Popular Novels | 120209419169410155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | image | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712326265 | 1.1887932116914E+14 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433975828_1173307743665508_4371549750111183281_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cXguklWexhAQ7kNvgEn_aPJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCjVsgxEVXqlafMXGey5vklAAeXlcbBF-xdDdSSlOgUsg&oe=6664003F | person_profile | 0 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434425194_1121433329063031_2816806435021019022_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=I5OWXgYRnh8Q7kNvgHyGTRh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBrKW2jZ8sB4HUSTcgNxP--LHnus8w5uZgi1D2p-fNVBw&oe=6663DDF9 | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.” | Popular Novels | 15 | https://facebook.com/100091852266052 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846766 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446609 | 1735168091 | 890 | 1331250847569140 | 1 | 9.8281082669747E+14 | 1712818800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 118879321169142 | 0 | Popular Novels | 120209419169690155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | image | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712326265 | 1.1887932116914E+14 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435524241_422218897086320_8935473368581095373_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aAe4mnerfgUQ7kNvgHzVhwh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAe3YPUoN2YybI-ehodZxwCzDRLf3_pF4LVc5kCW00z6Q&oe=666404BE | person_profile | 0 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435408139_1543505059831104_1171736695421943155_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=05rwLsHl3cwQ7kNvgFGyXnc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAjTZPo3nE_S52wF2j7SnGpcpc-gGuWwoPeeD_q0-NQLQ&oe=6663F1FB | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.” | Popular Novels | 15 | https://facebook.com/100091852266052 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846767 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446609 | 1735168091 | 890 | 1359852254732606 | 1 | 1.6091383065529E+15 | 1712818800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 118879321169142 | 0 | Popular Novels | 120209419169600155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | image | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712326265 | 1.1887932116914E+14 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435901947_747557514111695_7269693715248732154_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-vGtYcYRCvgQ7kNvgHcGmNL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC0NBCCKChkIhWv7Za3yeblnYxVAJEPxy_6W-4DdFmw7A&oe=6664131E | person_profile | 0 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435707686_1711399019675043_5170546078974212691_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=riOpHuOsDqcQ7kNvgHgWQuN&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDkIaP4ufCoQ8Ed3-ES-c9zHqpqMstjWCIWwTk6fr0baw&oe=6663FE40 | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.” | Popular Novels | 15 | https://facebook.com/100091852266052 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846768 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446609 | 1735168091 | 890 | 7393633064024610 | 1 | 3.9857803976518E+14 | 1712818800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 118879321169142 | 0 | Popular Novels | 120209419169350155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | image | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712326265 | 1.1887932116914E+14 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435460858_1624341025014581_739467339243255239_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RdXL77SnnZ8Q7kNvgGMoHnp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCYHAZH5aoaK4a5TArmcZr3aZv4ZvX5WZwD8d_IkkMe0Q&oe=6663F3C3 | person_profile | 0 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435912907_252535554606583_8318534491128381018_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3e3Rh09M_ZIQ7kNvgFPR5RP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAxMyBfrwj8XbpB4Z6wUBLLi8j94YUm1CqEbv8FOmOnXA&oe=66641412 | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.” | Popular Novels | 15 | https://facebook.com/100091852266052 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846769 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446609 | 1735168091 | 890 | 1353181075371083 | 1 | 3.9055685386996E+14 | 1712818800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 118879321169142 | 0 | Popular Novels | 120209419169380155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | image | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712326265 | 1.1887932116914E+14 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433934090_1199403818105778_5225217072395325789_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=f8obfpza_TsQ7kNvgEn_OId&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBzNfvw1Js5_jY2jHCfgZGaW7bMzSocdWTNd1l0XWAPVA&oe=6663EF92 | person_profile | 0 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434471710_1091956535214019_8823502970257376658_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ON5UlXHo6qUQ7kNvgFuK_Nr&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAjn7Cr-FINh5ozLU8zv2hBm8vn0g8eL6S4ivzeTmU2mw&oe=666410B0 | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.” | Popular Novels | 15 | https://facebook.com/100091852266052 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846770 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446609 | 1735168091 | 890 | 468759688909465 | 1 | 1.4557546553711E+15 | 1712386800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 127476320437895 | 0 | Joylit Novel | 120209419168180155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | video | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712326279 | 1.274763204379E+14 | Joylit Novel | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435922076_26020242234241797_2889841262972408798_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sZZnrIpMLp8Q7kNvgElKtUZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD01J__S_X-LBtTn9MBWlTXczcdm5L733Zfpn-FK6rfag&oe=666405B6 | person_profile | 0 | Joylit Novel | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435967927_1066767851049317_1561946203436222314_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SVjF7c4-BZoQ7kNvgH0kYeX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDnTaGqXYqV9DZkwRGv5cfaF8cVwR0fmpNqpBEeJn4lcw&oe=6664024C | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.” | Joylit Novel | 176 | https://facebook.com/61550512629703 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846771 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446609 | 1735168092 | 890 | 958749282411786 | 1 | 4.4977597414227E+14 | 1712473200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 118879321169142 | 0 | Popular Novels | 120209419167860155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | video | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712326284 | 1.1887932116914E+14 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434468888_3690261634575632_6401908243475390104_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Q9oRwK8usJkQ7kNvgGn9653&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDmqsgVbJ8GKEMNi1XBkT5asgsHHJVWIab6NvIb-eBing&oe=6663E823 | person_profile | 0 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434020943_779277654154148_2662673391048663058_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0wPRjWwguTcQ7kNvgEF4O2o&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDycXPwlTYfcW2U6awZL2g4wEIuuufPTe9qXmmUHZwFvg&oe=66640FD9 | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.” | Popular Novels | 15 | https://facebook.com/100091852266052 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846773 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446609 | 1735168092 | 890 | 3647639688884593 | 1 | 9.5678975931644E+14 | 1712473200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 118879321169142 | 0 | Popular Novels | 120209419168340155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | video | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712326286 | 1.1887932116914E+14 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435957913_930248478801308_2031386260841533956_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mYiqNlG3ZwkQ7kNvgHu4zzt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCdlijy5FyHFkiOYHUstQWWptKWsmzE1wVXeKjdcD9NKQ&oe=66640F8E | person_profile | 0 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436120890_339816871956035_1414577630003480584_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ooQtykUbZEUQ7kNvgGk0P0N&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDnAFlalH2p5CVopgVql3kvOh_BSXkb5T_onDRQ70b3zg&oe=666406CB | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.” | Popular Novels | 15 | https://facebook.com/100091852266052 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846774 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446609 | 1735168092 | 890 | 278986875256956 | 1 | 1.457913035109E+15 | 1712818800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 118879321169142 | 0 | Popular Novels | 120209419167580155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | image | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712326263 | 1.1887932116914E+14 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/423582667_3435600893252216_1589940012388866736_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=heWMmp2BwGMQ7kNvgFDSWEx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDhJIm7aDz2P8qlgSaHpFzm6L4EybqlZ2KK0Vb4mWK8UQ&oe=6663E33A | person_profile | 0 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434570372_2550082748498630_5774464899006330546_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MoEYYDxAl7EQ7kNvgGJrJJi&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB_ypwB8ccJ04d2h7mUihqyMd0RhdzqJPOfvgrDptPICA&oe=6663FA97 | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.” | Popular Novels | 15 | https://facebook.com/100091852266052 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846775 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446610 | 1735168092 | 890 | 339897142416421 | 1 | 7.6149925262853E+14 | 1712818800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 127476320437895 | 0 | Joylit Novel | 120209419167880155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | image | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712326265 | 1.274763204379E+14 | Joylit Novel | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435906348_903689698108156_704486821177568529_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Nz0lVrA8JKAQ7kNvgHFmbu4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAEKs2amivdFck5gYUSZUmyi6c8cNhV9e1xskS0yHAHKg&oe=6663F3B3 | person_profile | 0 | Joylit Novel | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434831984_751761997041307_4551358567051246058_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bmvGozNCOOgQ7kNvgFUZBkU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD6WuVRcfbZokEP70mkqwof_7AFIBhp6Gj68TsKMVd7_g&oe=6663E600 | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.” | Joylit Novel | 176 | https://facebook.com/61550512629703 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846776 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446610 | 1735168092 | 890 | 382881201235075 | 1 | 7.5040878382722E+14 | 1712818800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 118879321169142 | 0 | Popular Novels | 120209419168320155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | image | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712326262 | 1.1887932116914E+14 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434558424_3614469848769387_5047262944186986415_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1T3cuvk9UhwQ7kNvgHTrEnF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAR-nj90Xr3xlt37wi9OTCFngHt80504Sk2toB8QeqDwQ&oe=6663FAA6 | person_profile | 0 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436007508_7206685886108800_7970418204511314465_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lbTBnPwENwoQ7kNvgGA0gQb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYASMk1y9CPasq7tmyIzKoxPJo0oLvRgqb1RurmF537Mpg&oe=6663E637 | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.” | Popular Novels | 15 | https://facebook.com/100091852266052 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846777 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446610 | 1735168092 | 890 | 389315900695178 | 1 | 9.6297964197587E+14 | 1712818800 | person_profile | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 118879321169142 | 0 | Popular Novels | 120209419167610155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | image | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712326262 | 1.1887932116914E+14 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435922861_277392808749491_6542146539746627498_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GH1N35Hl1jIQ7kNvgFUaaq6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAAkU19lUZKqRcLVIPBvIdaIjX_2tET3NGFeA8QBw099A&oe=6663FF8F | person_profile | 0 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435921489_776715980765308_5585685040265305441_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Hd-fDhW7tPsQ7kNvgEqhFdT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDSqwrNBMw9Mtp_4UisFsNyHE9dMyfEBlspHjG29mEExQ&oe=66640B14 | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.” | Popular Novels | 15 | https://facebook.com/100091852266052 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846778 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446610 | 1735168092 | 890 | 736388861942581 | 1 | 1.534399537106E+15 | 1712818800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 118879321169142 | 0 | Popular Novels | 120209419167690155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | image | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712326263 | 1.1887932116914E+14 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434652630_407012708629221_7469306964724001722_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yt4gfiWoeEAQ7kNvgFvXTVz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAUWDL09W34q_Z2wNN7gozNjZiKIZNVJVo6nFJ_9BRU6w&oe=6663F6DD | person_profile | 0 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435407444_446806734371888_6124742060077081622_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VBEc5gvoS5sQ7kNvgFOir4g&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAHvQ-Bk-rIQTMhhDVq7tT83b5eO66v8mFVKoA853t9nw&oe=6663E074 | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.” | Popular Novels | 15 | https://facebook.com/100091852266052 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846779 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446610 | 1735168092 | 890 | 971754854280828 | 1 | 1.1452442802454E+15 | 1712818800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 118879321169142 | 0 | Popular Novels | 120209419167710155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | image | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712326264 | 1.1887932116914E+14 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436096764_2055936714788178_2501911458395791645_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EE0fcPOvJykQ7kNvgHAaVNg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBqpNzn8nys-asoWPqfZLqjiclhlosuWBORAQgSFZPHIA&oe=66640642 | person_profile | 0 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435926063_985350402946779_1373285003989104575_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XWKZ7mS2OSoQ7kNvgGwUTFV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB7sszV6PhPr9kjQirHC5QNmNNFYZ0wVa97cEjXSxQNLw&oe=6663F61D | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.” | Popular Novels | 15 | https://facebook.com/100091852266052 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846780 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446610 | 1735168092 | 890 | 1189481518880927 | 1 | 3.3212291612728E+14 | 1712818800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 118879321169142 | 0 | Popular Novels | 120209419168140155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | image | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712326265 | 1.1887932116914E+14 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435399974_389446827289421_4894376704931443124_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h1vOKhtcI0MQ7kNvgFrIsn5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDkcEOZhbengSX4jk5erKM3e9-g3vNGFAIR7-9oFTxDmA&oe=66640ED0 | person_profile | 0 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434649174_956834922622676_8234365415258112171_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fgHXpL2nUlQQ7kNvgE5cXTn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB45zZzFinhGUeWkdAInlxoBREXUU2DXBWnoVVX4iel6Q&oe=6663E873 | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.” | Popular Novels | 15 | https://facebook.com/100091852266052 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846781 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446610 | 1735168092 | 890 | 2086904768348601 | 1 | 4.4352668813328E+14 | 1712818800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 118879321169142 | 0 | Popular Novels | 120209419167550155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | image | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712326262 | 1.1887932116914E+14 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435900502_956709476099084_5195021621820317599_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wEKGBXyCclgQ7kNvgFHD-6S&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAQfW8MCZ5ZUqS8X4EXjbSk6C5c-Poj-bKpzVj5jSVbpA&oe=6663F60D | person_profile | 0 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434834477_1082659989476078_874111066070811343_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0JdJ1ztPT-sQ7kNvgF1d5g3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAqzEipJgYMU10Db1oX6oaf1nYMnCEENqCRha_5kd3kBg&oe=66640778 | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.” | Popular Novels | 15 | https://facebook.com/100091852266052 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846782 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446610 | 1735168092 | 890 | 269858109533341 | 1 | 1.364591494249E+15 | 1712818800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 118879321169142 | 0 | Popular Novels | 120209419165620155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | image | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712326269 | 1.1887932116914E+14 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435479633_409925998407769_2998626673035912586_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EldjZjFAtboQ7kNvgFryTaz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCpHbvT9b6dZ3mL52ZGkzPmVQ4-lkXa8jc39at7lXw_Sg&oe=6663EB49 | person_profile | 0 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435538348_942597447527529_5930432389628865560_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4l2HQ6KxTGIQ7kNvgGylxE3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCFoT_WL8ZekcAEivfvuJnDhiobH64Y2_sUQE1-qo1ZLA&oe=6664047B | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.” | Popular Novels | 15 | https://facebook.com/100091852266052 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846783 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446610 | 1735168092 | 890 | 374975405532220 | 1 | 9.2834095544689E+14 | 1712732400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 118879321169142 | 0 | Popular Novels | 120209419165830155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | image | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712326260 | 1.1887932116914E+14 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436007253_716551453886328_4981822175114547257_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Slyn4NbF_McQ7kNvgEm9pSw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDLGf8mrQa7VDALYnrpjdaJme8k7lUQA_kz_0jyVSiB0g&oe=6663E687 | person_profile | 0 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435900506_277776688711573_8062250983569275075_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=iSAhak04pHcQ7kNvgGorMJj&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA9fV8MR71NwrKtDjN7W7STFrVQIaPWKbm0trERCL7DrQ&oe=6664129B | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.” | Popular Novels | 15 | https://facebook.com/100091852266052 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846784 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446610 | 1735168092 | 890 | 854420719800208 | 1 | 1.1662928913471E+15 | 1712473200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 127476320437895 | 0 | Joylit Novel | 120209419166260155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | video | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712326279 | 1.274763204379E+14 | Joylit Novel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435489481_856287456312980_9059876891935253638_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QZV-KKbVqjYQ7kNvgGVg6KP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBmwaux3t-nrBURgRIRH18eq-_hagp1gUMFG6c2TGy-9A&oe=6663F39C | person_profile | 0 | Joylit Novel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435589886_404197109014832_4528757272626676201_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=u2SUdBUMGbgQ7kNvgG5fTRW&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAi1BY9zMBJqa6o8Ceqn7vt56EWzf74G6YYmQZzpyOLYg&oe=66641050 | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.” | Joylit Novel | 176 | https://facebook.com/61550512629703 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846785 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446610 | 1735168092 | 890 | 1064888797913661 | 1 | 1.5812017393103E+15 | 1712818800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 118879321169142 | 0 | Popular Novels | 120209419165910155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | image | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712326270 | 1.1887932116914E+14 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435457060_1210766433226708_1880908999393713707_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IeQo9IyTmkcQ7kNvgHvc_T-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCLZWoBGV2Ukgopq1Po8b0W4xj4rBPQV6SIgVnNd93v9g&oe=66640A09 | person_profile | 0 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434561399_386577947534107_6873605036794591822_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xofVoCK_754Q7kNvgEU6alb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBo0aZMxohxHAWH0doARvgKk-9CbJ3HN0YiGpaiQiAIKQ&oe=6663DE96 | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.” | Popular Novels | 15 | https://facebook.com/100091852266052 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846786 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446610 | 1735168092 | 890 | 1066601561109346 | 1 | 9.7458031767275E+14 | 1712473200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 118879321169142 | 0 | Popular Novels | 120209419165650155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | video | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712326282 | 1.1887932116914E+14 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435901997_875380801056523_503165323165704913_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=km6NK8HYKKYQ7kNvgGkwxOf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYARIHxbbubkJ46Akhg_dDewBLGS81ZlQLJ0OGYCO9Wv9A&oe=66640C9F | person_profile | 0 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436106588_826073825997379_4813937007244359581_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9MyXe1H9epYQ7kNvgG7QN69&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC-J-x96LqXoTb0vEAHy6nOl9qWyiHR-SbTCbS8ICcFUQ&oe=666405D1 | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.” | Popular Novels | 15 | https://facebook.com/100091852266052 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846787 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446611 | 1735168093 | 890 | 1148215586325436 | 1 | 4.2990210608191E+14 | 1712818800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 118879321169142 | 0 | Popular Novels | 120209419166050155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | image | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712326261 | 1.1887932116914E+14 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433938500_2087680958262106_8640955742166336438_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=imMwLpUCH9cQ7kNvgGzBb6D&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD9QxJCblbLWdNCQ2XF5erZRK7cyB3cdEYIonpSWDWIqQ&oe=6663F177 | person_profile | 0 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434022437_3287186068257150_7052415827563881303_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JQrbU0D-KOcQ7kNvgGR5Se8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA2HEMkgmPH0gj3EBwq8xs8QtQy7FK3xrbRbKgxbOT3nQ&oe=6663E012 | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.” | Popular Novels | 15 | https://facebook.com/100091852266052 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846788 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446611 | 1735168093 | 890 | 1157926558536603 | 1 | 4.2880385316575E+14 | 1712473200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 118879321169142 | 0 | Popular Novels | 120209419166180155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | video | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712326276 | 1.1887932116914E+14 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435989036_1086967465924185_6404595012688713563_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RZnME9DCBn4Q7kNvgGvrnjl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDLPoDupqXNOUrMEs3gbKbszplXc6Qm8Yq6KcziTm6ZXw&oe=6663DF2C | person_profile | 0 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435912903_2334482543422255_5783816954567106542_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MawYXEEcFVYQ7kNvgEm8ULa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAJFYvG4DNvXyyJE0yb1uIIq0x9m5mAimRFOlN55Ln0rA&oe=6663FF28 | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.” | Popular Novels | 15 | https://facebook.com/100091852266052 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846789 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446611 | 1735168093 | 890 | 1378364459519020 | 1 | 3.2655104044263E+14 | 1712818800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 118879321169142 | 0 | Popular Novels | 120209419165720155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | image | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712326264 | 1.1887932116914E+14 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435982833_948405769827285_6761553779600405763_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_ALVlmGn1HwQ7kNvgGR3-T3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBBsyaWSPpX2xnInnHlXc0c1QHLDtwW1OvjDDA3orYF6w&oe=666401F9 | person_profile | 0 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434831645_1145914590154944_3557428516369124045_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vy82_K23HuIQ7kNvgFGNdyH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYANtAqMGkdDGtmW6FwwmSuFMvmSWefP4F8qB7mGRTel7A&oe=6663E0FD | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.” | Popular Novels | 15 | https://facebook.com/100091852266052 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846790 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446611 | 1735168093 | 890 | 2698801206954107 | 1 | 7.93483138874E+14 | 1712818800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 118879321169142 | 0 | Popular Novels | 120209419165580155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | image | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712326261 | 1.1887932116914E+14 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435683131_733946771920651_6246124630391577699_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=iVUwsPMGU3oQ7kNvgFXVLxT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB0Kmg0lmN1JaEQ57iPcFLOTKlyAqFcuVmaf0wWgvqFAg&oe=6663FDC8 | person_profile | 0 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435736703_7379701688780853_3374785693898820793_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Td6WQOJKyH0Q7kNvgFBe9AC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA85EZaILI37KZUQRy4zDoIUB2MXyvpGL4uRtIoszU4Vg&oe=6663E607 | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.” | Popular Novels | 15 | https://facebook.com/100091852266052 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846791 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446611 | 1735168093 | 890 | 3565638960351332 | 1 | 4.0780242531202E+14 | 1712818800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 118879321169142 | 0 | Popular Novels | 120209419165760155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | image | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712326270 | 1.1887932116914E+14 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434555213_749429893837857_8620851439615711120_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TJ_qSVKxdWEQ7kNvgE7jCrH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBWgVLtVBzKQDCugGNJB-7j2WdD8pnCGcFZAD4MJyYRVA&oe=6663E567 | person_profile | 0 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435464675_1505995663465501_5090512209499058309_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9IH6VEMKNGMQ7kNvgGG2NKk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAWlVUUaVCGj_N5byjw4oVh_AbnTBUpQG2r3vr0KiDF8Q&oe=6663F674 | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.” | Popular Novels | 15 | https://facebook.com/100091852266052 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846792 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446611 | 1735168093 | 890 | 2195562437447200 | 1 | 2.6919279276393E+15 | 1712818800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 118879321169142 | 0 | Popular Novels | 120209419165560155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | image | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712326261 | 1.1887932116914E+14 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434560139_453640453653351_1627885482373275511_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IwwH9M_cuyEQ7kNvgHGQthD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCx8KJwCYHHZ1cXpszL2mkGcC_6A2veNr9V4E7LfLA2ew&oe=66640A01 | person_profile | 0 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435485210_941941354193132_1302001641811867769_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yOpGqxgyu68Q7kNvgHqjU5i&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDs2Mmw8d0sXcRiJOYAFkLLpjqBsp4J3kJ3u7YHxgXKtA&oe=6664154B | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.” | Popular Novels | 15 | https://facebook.com/100091852266052 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846793 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446611 | 1735168093 | 890 | 386373227546948 | 1 | 1.1315561582971E+15 | 1712300400 | person_profile | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 118879321169142 | 0 | Popular Novels | 120209381868430155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | video | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712247673 | 1.1887932116914E+14 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434777161_776175164520563_6945987529361106588_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7AsLHiWlBkQQ7kNvgF8Fd9q&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAdO09djO4dDsstwRKFEAqmoQtnQFTC7qPp-EN2Ejoaaw&oe=6664003B | person_profile | 0 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434815475_893882719174600_2666611483356940122_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9iSlgdptC44Q7kNvgGjGnLt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDN8e48SoB4kI6NpWaiDU1f6dz5aCDPMAJJ1Sk_hT3M9w&oe=666410ED | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 6<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> I wake up with a gasp, sitting up abruptly like a marionette whose strings got yanked. My head starts to spin, but it’s not because there was no gentle introduction to the waking world.<br /> It’s because of the dream.<br /> Because of Claudia.<br /> I clutch my chest and feel that my heart is going haywire. My back is slick with sweat and I can almost feel it soaking my sheets. I close my eyes for a moment, gathering my thoughts, but the first thing I see in the darkness is Claudia’s face. Her voice is ringing in my ears, the first voice I have heard in so many years.<br /> She’s the Siren, the Moon Goddess said. The Alpha’s Voice.<br /> What does that mean? What does it have to do with me? What does that make her? I have more questions than answers and the frustration building up inside me is turning into anger. I don’t want that. I have to focus.<br /> Because if there is one thing I know, it’s that I fucked up by demanding her to leave.<br /> And I need to get her back.<br /> Fueled by the sudden fiery desire to chase after her and hold her down in the castle if I need to, I jump out of bed. I push open the door and startle the guards. I can see them mouthing, “What is the trouble, Alpha?”<br /> I ignore all of them. I just run along the hallway until I find Kiernan’s room. The guards step aside when they see me, so I push open the door, stumbling inside like a sweaty, clumsy ogre.<br /> Meanwhile, Kiernan is still awake, staring through the window. My heart sinks when I see that it’s already daylight outside, but I still have to try. I need to.<br /> Kiernan turns around, frowns at me, and asks, “Your Majesty. What brings you here?”<br /> He knows that it irks me when he calls me that, but I ignore it anyway. 'I need to find the maid, Claudia.'<br /> I thought he would ask why, but he just narrows his eyes. “The maid you kicked out last night? I found her in the freezing cold, just staring into the distance like she couldn’t believe what happened. I actually told her I would talk to you about it, but when I got to your room, you were already asleep.”<br /> His words hit me like arrows to the heart. I can almost picture Claudia standing where I left her, crying and wondering what she did wrong, all the while I was sleeping soundly with no care in the world….<br /> No. I can’t think about that. It hurts too much.<br /> I step back, the tightness in my chest so extreme that I have to inhale and exhale slowly. Every time I blink I see her distraught face and hear her broken voice, appealing her case and showing me that she deserved to stay.<br /> And what did I do? I kicked her right out like she meant nothing.<br /> Like we never had anything together.<br /> I swallow hard. ‘I need her back here. I made a mistake.’<br /> “Then let’s go to the maids’ quarters,” Kiernan offers. “Maybe she’s still there.”<br /> I nod, and together, we barge into the lower floor where the maids stay. The rooms are already empty as they start their day at dawn. Every empty room we pass makes me want to punch something in regret, but I can still catch the sweet scent of Claudia in the air, lingering like a whisper. Finally, we arrive at her room, where her scent is strongest. The door is still closed.<br /> Kiernan lifts his hand to knock, but I’m desperate. I open the door.<br /> And there is one person inside the room. But it’s not Claudia.<br /> It’s a maid I remember as Maia, her best friend here. She whips around as soon as we get in, and I immediately see her swollen eyes and red face.<br /> “Alpha,” she mutters, sinking into a bow. “Gamma. I will go to work as soon as possible.”<br /> “No, take the time you need,” Kiernan says. “You are obviously in distress. What happened?”<br /> My breath gets stuck in my throat. I already know what she’s going to say, but I find myself searching the room in hopes of finding any proof that Claudia actually chose to stay.<br /> However, the room is blissfully empty. Vacated for the next maid.<br /> “Claudia left, Gamma,” she answers. “She said she needed to go back to her family. It was just so unexpected. I asked her if it had something to do with the meeting, and she said no. She said she’s tired of working. I don’t believe that. She always loved working here….”<br /> I freeze in shock. Kiernan glances at me pointedly before turning back to Maia. “I completely understand. Please, take the day off and rest. The Alpha and I will get going now.”<br /> He grabs me by the arm and pulls me out of the room, closing the door behind us. I can’t even walk properly. I can’t believe what I just heard.<br /> After all the bad things I said to her, she still chose to cover for me.<br /> I stop moving as soon as we reach the foyer. I hold onto the stair banister for support, my throat closed up.<br /> Kiernan stands next to me. “What happened, Your Majesty?”<br /> ‘Don’t call me that,’ I sign to him. ‘Go prepare a carriage—no. A horse. Ready a horse for me. I will be setting out soon—’<br /> “No, you’re not,” he interjects, his eyebrows scrunched up. “You are the Alpha King. Do you know what it would mean to the Rogues if they took down the head of the whole land? The revolution would be over!”<br /> ‘Fine, I will do it myself.’ I try to push past him but he blocks me. ‘Move out of my way. I need Claudia back here right now.’<br /> He shakes his head, putting a firm hand on my chest. “You’d have to kill me if you want to leave alone.”<br /> Kiernan is one of my oldest friends and most loyal men. We’ve butted heads many times before, but not like this. I can see his quiet anger, and I know from the look in his eyes that he can feel mine. Still, he stands his ground, staring at me like he’s daring me to attack him right now.<br /> And I almost want to. The thought of Claudia getting farther and farther away is tearing my soul apart.<br /> But I take a deep breath to steady myself. ‘You don’t understand.’<br /> “Then make me understand.”<br /> ‘Claudia is important to me,’ I tell him after a pause. ‘The Moon Goddess told me so. She is the Siren and the Alpha’s Voice. I have to get her back or else—’<br /> “Alpha Achilles.”<br /> He signals me to turn around. I see Carlos standing by the end of the stairs, his torso still wrapped in bandages.<br /> However, he’s not alone. Standing next to him are the Housekeeper and the Chief Butler. Both of them are carrying files, laid out as though they’re asking for advice.<br /> ‘What is this?’ I signal to Carlos. ‘I don’t need any interruptions right now. I have somewhere else to go.’<br /> Carlos shakes his head to stop me. “Alpha… today is the Winter Solstice festival. Our pack is hosting. You cannot go anywhere.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 7<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> The journey from Sangria Amori to my hometown feels long and short at the same time. As I sit there in the carriage watching the palace disappear behind a mountain in the distance and begin to see the tall magnolia trees surrounding the famous springs of my home, I can’t help but feel a mixture of longing and relief.<br /> Longing because it’s been my home for years and years. I have made good memories and bonded with amazing people. I overcame a lot of bad things. I met the one I thought I would know forever.<br /> But the relief comes from the loss of all of that. From the knowledge that from now on, I would be free from that palace and everyone in it.<br /> Especially Achilles.<br /> My heart still makes a little flip at the simple thought of his name. I still have to clench my hands and pierce my own palms with my nails to remind myself that I shouldn’t be thinking about him. But thankfully, I don’t have to acknowledge it because the carriage finally stops. The coachman Peter calls out from the front, smacking the carriage door with his cane. “You’re here now, girl. It’s time to move out.”<br /> I gather all my bags and sling them all on my shoulders, slightly struggling with the weight as I climb down the rickety old carriage. “Thank you so much, Peter.”<br /> I give him a happy salute, about to head to the arch that reads Nightshade Springs. But then, I hear him calling out, “Are you sure you’re going to be safe from here on?”<br /> That makes me pause. So far, throughout the whole journey, I haven’t sensed any Rogues at all. But Peter has a point. The infestation of Rogues is very much real and rampant, and I haven’t been to my hometown in five years. I honestly don’t know what’s waiting in store for me here.<br /> But still, I don’t want to bother him. If there is any danger out here, I would rather face it; I know that he has a family.<br /> So I just smile at him. “I got it, Peter. Thank you again and be careful on your way back!”<br /> He looks uncertain, but he leaves anyway, whipping the horses until they gallop faster. Soon enough, he’s gone.<br /> And I’m alone in the middle of the woods, surrounded by the familiar fresh scent of springs and pine.<br /> The scent of home.<br /> A soft smile appears on my face as I start to walk, following the stone path that leads to the edge of the village where the cemetery is.<br /> I suppose it’s a grim thing to start with, but I’ve been meaning to visit my parents’ graves for the past years. Grief and the start of the revolution put a halt to all of that, so now I feel quite happy that I get to see them, even if it’s just this way.<br /> My mom was a maid like I am. Or was. Either way, she served the palace too, specifically as a handmaiden to the former Queen. My dad was a gardener. She died from deadly flu five years ago, and he followed right after.<br /> Back then, I thought this was unfair. How could they leave me in this world alone? I was resentful. But eventually, I realized that it may have been out of love. He was never able to be apart from her for any period of time, and not even death could stop him from chasing after her.<br /> They told me that they met each other at a gathering for servants, and my father fell in love with my mother when he first heard her sing. I honestly can’t blame him. She had the most wonderful voice, and he always said that I had that beautiful voice too. I never really knew if he was just making that up, but the ones who heard me sing also told me that I do have a pretty voice.<br /> The memory brings a smile to my face, and as I approach their graves, I find myself humming along to the tune of my mother’s lullaby.<br /> Their graves are now covered in ivy. I sweep some of the leaves away and light a candle for them.<br /> I sit there for a while, watching the light flicker on their gravestones. I reach out and feel the warmth, opening my mouth to talk to them like I always did, but that’s when something strikes me.<br /> The sour, rotten smell.<br /> My entire body freezes. I shoot to my feet, clutching my bags closer to me as I look around. My heart is beating in my ears and I almost want to whimper, but it only gets worse when I finally see a single Rogue.<br /> It’s hiding behind gravestones in the distance, its eyes gleaming with hunger and malice as they focus on me. Its low growls make the ground hum. There’s tension in the air, thick and suffocating, telling me it’s been stalking me like prey for a while now. It’s still far but ready to spring. Ready to chase and feed.<br /> And I know that if I take one step back, it will come out and kill me.<br /> I slowly exhale, stepping back and feeling it move with me, keeping the distance between us the same.<br /> Bit by bit, I ease my bags off my shoulders and set them down. The eyes of the Rogue follow my movement like two laser pointers. I slip my hand in my pocket, looking for the silver knife that Maia gave me as a parting gift, ready to it down.<br /> As though on cue, the Rogue leaps into the air as soon as I raise the knife.<br /> But I’m ready this time. I don’t come to meet it. Instead, I stand my ground, waiting for the perfect moment. As soon as it flies midair to pounce on me, I duck right under it and run the knife along its throat.<br /> The Rogue falls to the ground with a whimper. It scrambles to get upright again, but before it can do so, I stomp its fragile head flat with my boot, its blood spattering everywhere.<br /> “Thank the gods,” I mutter, but that’s when I realize that I spoke too soon.<br /> As soon as the Rogue stops moving, the forest seems to come alive right before me. More Rogues emerge from the trees, sniffing and snarling, their eyes alight with joy when they see a perfectly good meal severely outnumbered.<br /> All at once, they jump toward me.<br /> A scream breaks out of my lips. I raise my bags to shield myself, but at this point, it’s only a matter of time before they take me down and feast on me. I’m only waiting for the pain now….<br /> But before it can come, I hear loud bangs in the distance. Gunshots. Followed by the loud thuds of the Rogues hitting the ground, dropping like dead flies.<br /> I lower my bags in horror. All the Rogues are dead, their heads bleeding from a single smoking puncture wound between their eyes. I’m about to turn around to see my savior, but then I feel the still-hot muzzle of the gun against my back.<br /> “Drop your knife if you want to live. Who are you and what do you need?”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 8<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The first thing that rises out of me is not frustration from being told what to do, but embarrassment from forgetting about the big event. I know that Carlos just had a bad injury that he’s still most likely dealing with, but I have a situation on my hands that I just can’t shake off, but I can't help but avert my gaze in shame.<br /> Carlos, Kiernan, and the two head staff are staring at me expectantly, and I just want to sink into the ground and never reappear.<br /> I look over at Kiernan, who gives me a small shrug like he’s telling me that it’s all up to me.<br /> The obvious thing to do is to just delay the festival and focus on the very important task of finding Claudia. But I know that my people are counting on this one single happy day among all the bad ones. They need this. And as much as I need Claudia here with me, they come first.<br /> I take a deep, steadying breath. ‘I apologize. It must have slipped my mind. Prepare the decorations and we shall have a lunch banquet in the throne room.’<br /> Carlos nods and repeats my words to the head staff. Then, he turns back to me and asks, “How about the evening celebrations?”<br /> ‘We’ll see,’ I sign to him.<br /> With that, the head staff both bow and leave. Now it’s only the three of us, and they look pained.<br /> “So what’s been happening?” Carlos splutters at last. “Where are you going?”<br /> Kiernan is the one who answers for him. “He kicked out the maid, Claudia, and now he has to bring her back because the Moon Goddess told him so in a dream. He wants to go out there himself.”<br /> ‘I have to,’ I tell them both. 'I still do, but with the festival..."<br /> And of course, they just look at me like they feel sorry for me. I’m about to tell them both to supervise so I can go, but then Kiernan sighs and says, “I’ll get some of our warriors, and we will go and find her.”<br /> Without giving me a chance to say anything about this, Kiernan leaves. Carlos then looks at me and beckons me to go up the stairs.<br /> “After you, Alpha. Let’s give the people a good celebration.”<br /> * * *<br /> When I arrive at the throne room after changing into my formal suit, it is already decked with blue and silver decorations fit for the winter solstice theme. Food is flowing in, music is playing, and it seems that all the citizens are gathering.<br /> When Carlos and I enter, it takes me a whole while to notice that the throne room isn’t even halfway filled. As I sit on my throne, I see that my people are not eating, drinking, or having fun at all. They are just gathered at the little tables, engaged in serious conversation.<br /> More people are coming in, greeted by the butlers by the door. I keep thinking that this new batch will come and let loose, but they just gather like the rest of the guests.<br /> It’s starting to make me nervous. I agreed to this party thinking it would be best for their morale, but it seems that they’re just as uninterested in the occasion as I was.<br /> ‘This is not going well,’ I tell Carlos, who’s standing on my right side. He’s not fully recovered yet, but he insisted on coming here. ‘It would be best to cut this short.’<br /> As soon as I say those words, guilt starts to drum in my chest. I know that I should try to make things more festive instead of thinking about Claudia, but not knowing how things are on that front is almost as bad as being here and seeing my people feeling blue.<br /> “I think it would be best if you go down and communicate with them personally,” Carlos says, and I can’t believe I never thought of that before.<br /> I get up from my throne with the full intent of going around, but then I see a familiar face by the door. Someone I really don’t want to see.<br /> Alpha Tristan.<br /> He’s still wearing a coat, speckled with snow. The butler tries to take it from him but he pushes him away, which makes me tense up, immediately ready for a fight. However, he’s not alone. Walking behind him like lapdogs are the Alphas of his neighboring packs: Giorgio, Anthony, and Larkin.<br /> Their auras are so domineering and so distracting that the people in the throne room stop what they’re doing and just watch them approach me. But instead of meeting them halfway, I remain standing in front of the throne with the steps of the dais separating us.<br /> None of them bows down to me.<br /> “What are you doing here?” Carlos asks, and it perfectly reflects what’s in my mind, just more polite.<br /> Tristan flashes me a smirk. “We’re here because we’re tired of the preposterous games that Sangria Amori is playing. We need change!”<br /> Even though I can’t hear him, I can feel the vibrations of his scream on the walls and the floor. He’s livid, and because of this, the people in the room are tuning in.<br /> I don’t like the admiring and interested looks on their faces. I look at Carlos. ‘We shouldn’t have this talk here.’<br /> “Alpha Tristan.” Carlos gives him a strained smile, motioning him to come along. “We shall move this conversation to a more private location and perhaps—”<br /> “Get your hands off me.” Tristan pushes past him and squares up to me. “What you’re doing to these people is sickening. Making them show up here, forced to have fun, when they are suffering from problems you would never know about from your high throne. You’re making a mockery of their situation, flaunting your privilege in their faces.”<br /> I want to push him down the steps and pound his face into a pulp, but I restrain myself. Instead, I just sign something that Carlos translates with perfect contempt.<br /> “Get out, right now.”<br /> Tristan only scoffs, facing the people. “Last night, instead of meeting with the rest of the Alphas and coming up with a way to erase the Rogues, Alpha King Achilles was late. He left us on our own when we had a Rogue attack. It’s painfully obvious that his disabilities have made him selfish, and unfit to rule our land.”<br /> This time, my temper gets the best of me. I grab him by the arm with the full intent of punching him in the face as soon as he turns, but I stop when the people gasp.<br /> They’re now looking at me in horror.<br /> I slowly let him go. He starts to walk away, step by step, not taking his eyes off me. There’s a certain gleam in his eyes that I can’t identify, but the hairs on the back of my neck are standing on end.<br /> Only when he’s standing by the door do I know why.<br /> “We will no longer take orders from the Alpha King,” Tristan declares, his gaze still on me. “We will handle the Rogues our way, the right way. And those who want to join us would be offered full protection.”<br /> With that, he leaves.<br /> And I watch in horror as some of my citizens begin to get up from their seats, following him out.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 9<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> “Don’t shoot me,” I mutter, and I cringe when I hear the fear in my voice. I hate that I faced that single Rogue like a boss only to fold like this. “I’m not a danger to anyone. I’m a local here. I just moved for work at the palace…”<br /> I stop when I realize I’m about to ramble. I just drop the knife. As soon as it clatters on the floor, I feel the muzzle of the gun easing off my back. I take this as a cue to turn around, and I come face to face with a young man about my age, with straw-colored hair and brown eyes. He’s carrying a massive silver shotgun with rounds of big silver bullets around his body.<br /> He’s studying me closely, fixing his flannel shirt. “Who are you?”<br /> “Claudia Hale,” I say shakily. I even bow, which is dumb, but I guess it’s not so stupid if it stops him from shooting me. “I just came here to visit my parents.”<br /> At first, he doesn’t say anything. My nerves are starting to act up and I find myself basically skipping in my spot. But finally, he asks, “Hale, huh? Do you happen to be related to Ruth?”<br /> My eyes go wide. “Yes! Ruth is my cousin.”<br /> The man’s shoulders relax. He cracks a smile, and suddenly he doesn’t seem so scary anymore. “You must be the cousin she talks about a lot. The singer. I’m Max, by the way. Follow me.”<br /> We shake hands, and I can’t help but feel giddy.<br /> My cousin Ruth is here. I can’t believe it. We were very close as kids, even though we only saw each other over the summers. She left Nightshade Springs when we were both eighteen, and the last thing I heard about her was that she got married to a mason from the nearby village. We saw each other at my dad’s funeral, but we didn’t get to talk much because of my own grief.<br /> But now, I’m going to see her. I wonder if she has kids now.<br /> The thought of little babies running around makes me so excited, so much so that I almost forget to follow Max as he leads me out of the cemetery through an unfamiliar path. I quickly pick up the knife and run after him.<br /> I frown as I pull level with Max. "Why are we using this path?"<br /> The moment the question leaves my lips, the answer comes to me when we turn a corner.<br /> For the first time, I come face to face with the aftermath of the Rogue infestation.<br /> The village is now completely deserted. The houses are dilapidated, empty and broken. The smell of Rogues is present, but distant, which tells me that the place is visited frequently but they're not actually here. Dried blood is scattered all over the ground like paint.<br /> "That's animal blood," Max explains, following the direction of my gaze. "We vacated this place a long time ago. We still live in this area, but we decided to stick close together to protect ourselves from the Rogues. We figured that it would be best if we show them a strong front. The Kingdom doesn't really do much for us, so we have to take matters into our own hands."<br /> I swallow hard, averting my gaze as we turn another corner, a hidden path behind a small hill.<br /> "Does the Kingdom not visit the villages at all?" I ask.<br /> Max shakes his head. "Nope. Not at all. They send guards from time to time, but you see how many Rogues there are. You know how violent they can be. We needed weapons to protect ourselves, but they just won't provide that. I think they keep it to themselves, leave everyone else defenseless."<br /> I keep quiet. I don't know what to say. Part of me wants to defend the palace. I mean, I know they have it hard, and Achilles is doing his best. But then again, who am I to dismiss their suffering?<br /> I open my mouth to ask where they got their weapons, but then we arrive at a fenced part of the village. Barbed wires are set on tall metal walls, behind which small compact buildings stand proud.<br /> He opens the gate carefully, and we both enter. There are a couple of villages standing watch, carrying guns similar to his. They stare at me, and I have to lower my head to avoid the intensity of their looks.<br /> I want to tell Max that I just want to see Ruth, but before I can get the question out, I see two people running towards me.<br /> I look up and my heart nearly gives out when I see that it's Ruth, together with a tall bearded man who must be her husband.<br /> "Claudia!" she squeals, and before I can even drop my bags, she scoops me up into a big hug. "You're home! It's been so long!"<br /> I blink the tears away when she lets me go. "I figured it was time to retire and just stay here."<br /> I feel guilty. I lied to Maia and now I'm lying to Ruth.<br /> “You loved that job, but I do understand,” she says, and I can’t help but be thankful that she didn’t press me for more details. “This is my husband, Henry. We live in one of the apartments. You can stay with us if you like, but I think it would be best if you get your own room.”<br /> “It’s nice to meet you,” Henry says, taking my bags from me. “I will take these up to your room.”<br /> I smile. “Thank you so much.”<br /> He and Max leave, and Ruth takes my arm, steering me into a small structure at the foot of one of the buildings. I can hear cheers and smell food from outside, and I find myself relaxing when I see that it’s a pub. Men and women alike are laughing and talking, downing jugs of beer and eating fried food. It’s quite fascinating to see so much life and joy in a single space in this lost land, but I can’t help but feel grateful.<br /> Ruth and I sit on the counter. The bartender slides two jugs of beer and a platter of steaming chips. I grab the chips even though they’re hot, stuffing them all in my mouth and drinking the beer. Everything is strangely fresh, and I can’t help but gobble it all up. Ruth watches me with amusement as she sips her drink.<br /> “Do they not feed you up there?” she jokes, shaking her head. “Honestly, I don’t blame you for going home. It must have been hell there.”<br /> My appetite suddenly vanishes. “Well, it’s not so bad. But nothing like home, yes.” I clear my throat, desperate for a change of topic. “So, Max found me in the cemetery. He’s… an interesting character.”<br /> “I know, he mind-linked it to me.” She shrugs. “Max is kind of an asshole, but I get why. He had to step up as our leader when the palace guards left us. He looted all those guns that we use now, so the only thing we have to forge are bullets. Screw the Kingdom and that deaf-mute idiot who rules it.”<br /> My face goes hot. I want to defend Achilles. I want to tell Ruth not to call him that, but then again, he kicked me out for defending him.<br /> “Is everyone doing the same?” I start to ask, but then a small commotion breaks out in the corner of the pub where the entrance is.<br /> “Hey, keep that bastard out!” I hear some of the men yelling.<br /> “He barged right in and demanded entry!”<br /> “It’s one of those palace fuckers!”<br /> I freeze. Ruth and I both slide out of our stools, looking over at the chaos.<br /> My heart jumps right into my throat when I see Gamma Kiernan trying to force his way inside the pub.<br /> “Bring me Claudia Hale, and we will not have any problems.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 10<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Panic takes a hold of me. Suddenly, I feel my entire body going numb. I can feel Ruth beside me and I can hear her saying something, but it’s like my mind is tuning out. All I can hear are muffled voices. All I can feel is my heart hammering inside my ribs like it wants to get out.<br /> I blink a couple of times as we get pushed back by the ongoing commotion. For a moment I’m certain that I’m not seeing things correctly, but I’m wrong.<br /> Gamma Kiernan is really here, and he’s looking for me.<br /> “No way you’re getting in,” the men at the entrance keep telling him. “Pack it up and leave!”<br /> “I will not leave until you bring Claudia Hale here,” he insists. “I can smell her scent in the air. I know you’re hiding her. Back off, and no one gets hurt.”<br /> “How dare you threaten us?”<br /> With that, the chaos ensues. Now there are so many men blocking his way, and soon enough, women are clamoring to shoo him out of the pub too. I can see his expression. I know that he can take these men down if he wants to, but he’s restraining himself.<br /> The urge to step up and show myself before things get ugly overcomes me, but then Ruth wheels around and dunks my head down, preventing me from getting seen.<br /> “Why the hell are they looking for you?” Ruth demands. “Did you do something?”<br /> “No,” I begin to say, but that’s when I feel a strong hand dragging me back.<br /> “Ow!” I complain under my breath, feeling myself getting yanked back into the corner by this strong person. I turn around and see Max. He’s squeezing my arm so hard that I can almost feel the bruises appearing. “Let me go!”<br /> He just glares at me. “You are not going to show yourself to that upstart. You’re going to stay here behind the bar. Understand?”<br /> “No!” I snatch my arm back from him. “Do you want your people to get hurt?”<br /> His eyes flash with anger. “You’re really assuming we’re the ones who’d get hurt? You put too much faith in those men who don’t do anything but sit on their asses and command the lower people to fight for them.”<br /> I realize that he’s referring to the palace royals, including Achilles. His claims are so false that I square up to him, shoving him back. “You have no idea what you’re talking about! Those men risk their lives for us!”<br /> “Maybe for you,” Max growls dryly, “but never for me.”<br /> The next events happen so fast. So much so that I don’t even get the time to react. Max just grabs me by the shoulders, pushes me right into the broom closet, and props a chair against the doorknob to basically lock it from outside. I fall on the floor, flat on my behind, but then I spring up to my feet to try to ram it down.<br /> “Let me out!” I scream, but I doubt anyone would hear me from the absolute meltdown happening outside.<br /> I could shift into my wolf and break the door, but I think I would end up demolishing half the pub in the process. So even though I want to end this, I just stay by the door, pressing my ear against it and listening as best as I can.<br /> That’s when I hear Max announcing, “Silence, everyone. Let the man speak.”<br /> The people immediately shut up, which surprises me. It seems that everyone really recognizes him as their leader. I can almost picture him stepping up to Gamma Kiernan.<br /> “Thank you,” Gamma Kiernan says. “As I was trying to say before I got swarmed, I need Claudia Hale.”<br /> “Why?” Max asks in a calm, almost lazy tone.<br /> “Because the Alpha King says so,” Gamma Kiernan replies in a similar voice. “We don’t want any trouble with the King, do we?”<br /> “Oh, no, we don’t,” Max answers, but this time, he sounds perfectly sarcastic. I can hear the others around him letting out a laugh. “We really don’t. But you see, Claudia isn’t here.”<br /> Silence fills the air. I want to scream at the top of my lungs to alert everyone of my presence, but I’m stunned. Petrified, really. Did the Gamma really say that it’s Alpha Achilles who’s asking for me?<br /> But why? Why would he look for me? It hasn’t even been a day since I left. Does he regret all the things he did, all the things he said to me? Did he realize that I didn’t actually do anything wrong, and he punished me out of pure pride and possibly stupidity?<br /> Now that’s something I want to hear. I want him to say sorry.<br /> I’m about to scream when suddenly, I hear Gamma Kiernan saying, “I can smell her. Do not fucking lie to me.”<br /> Somehow, I’m able to sense something about to go wrong before it even transpires. I make a move to ram the door down before things can break out, but it’s too late.<br /> Before I can even do anything, I hear Max saying in a low voice, “Deal with this bastard.”<br /> And then, hell breaks loose.<br /> It’s so loud I can almost see it. The men in the pub all yell for battle and the sounds that follow root me to my spot. More screams. Thuds from bodies hitting the floor and the walls. Broken glass. Snapping wood. Arrows whizzing. Wolves howling. Gunshots. So many gunshots….<br /> Soon enough, the smell of blood fills the air, and my heart nearly stops.<br /> It seems to go on forever, the sound and the smell and the carnage. I can make out specific voices like Gamma Kiernan’s, telling his men to stand down and leave. I can hear Max telling his people to pursue them, to drive them back and make sure they learn their lesson. On and on and on it goes.<br /> But just when I think that it’s never going to end, silence follows.<br /> It’s almost eerie. One can hear a pin drop. Who got shot? Did anyone die?<br /> The thought of death because of me is what finally breaks me. I ram down the door without shifting into my wolf form, but when I arrive at the bar, it’s too late. I can hear the sound of horses whinnying outside, their hooves hitting the ground in loud thuds as they run fast. I see the flash of the red carriage through the broken windows.<br /> I look all over the floor to see if anyone has fallen, but aside from the smears of blood, it seems that everyone made it out alive.<br /> At least, from this party.<br /> I don’t know if I can say the same about the people from the palace.<br /> Suddenly, Max enters the pub, sporting a broken nose. He tears off a piece of his shirt and uses it to dab on the blood, but I march toward him and snatch it right out of his hand. “What did you do?”<br /> “Showed them that they have no business here,” he says simply, taking the strip of fabric back from me. “The only thing I should be hearing from you is thank you, unless…”<br /> Everyone in the pub looks at me.<br /> Ruth is the one who gets up and turns to me. “What did you do, Claudia? Why are they looking for you?”<br /> Max crosses his arms. "Give us a good reason why we shouldn't kick you out of here. 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| 1846794 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446611 | 1735168093 | 890 | 628835726092167 | 1 | 3.8823692068868E+14 | 1712300400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 118879321169142 | 0 | Popular Novels | 120209381875100155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | video | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712247646 | 1.1887932116914E+14 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435460454_228002963697666_8005756814523861345_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5ZokoUGsmd0Q7kNvgHJh7-W&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCMReHuX_yyVG-bIXevYLbUoCeKmUs6mDmRmn1E884dIA&oe=66640565 | person_profile | 0 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435516665_1452578488972761_4714242035106415195_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6tgNadpPJMwQ7kNvgHjIKTH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCNs0vI2XuDi622i7k1Vam9ZmyNtpiyCpJwMi8MnqC23A&oe=6663F645 | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 6<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> I wake up with a gasp, sitting up abruptly like a marionette whose strings got yanked. My head starts to spin, but it’s not because there was no gentle introduction to the waking world.<br /> It’s because of the dream.<br /> Because of Claudia.<br /> I clutch my chest and feel that my heart is going haywire. My back is slick with sweat and I can almost feel it soaking my sheets. I close my eyes for a moment, gathering my thoughts, but the first thing I see in the darkness is Claudia’s face. Her voice is ringing in my ears, the first voice I have heard in so many years.<br /> She’s the Siren, the Moon Goddess said. The Alpha’s Voice.<br /> What does that mean? What does it have to do with me? What does that make her? I have more questions than answers and the frustration building up inside me is turning into anger. I don’t want that. I have to focus.<br /> Because if there is one thing I know, it’s that I fucked up by demanding her to leave.<br /> And I need to get her back.<br /> Fueled by the sudden fiery desire to chase after her and hold her down in the castle if I need to, I jump out of bed. I push open the door and startle the guards. I can see them mouthing, “What is the trouble, Alpha?”<br /> I ignore all of them. I just run along the hallway until I find Kiernan’s room. The guards step aside when they see me, so I push open the door, stumbling inside like a sweaty, clumsy ogre.<br /> Meanwhile, Kiernan is still awake, staring through the window. My heart sinks when I see that it’s already daylight outside, but I still have to try. I need to.<br /> Kiernan turns around, frowns at me, and asks, “Your Majesty. What brings you here?”<br /> He knows that it irks me when he calls me that, but I ignore it anyway. 'I need to find the maid, Claudia.'<br /> I thought he would ask why, but he just narrows his eyes. “The maid you kicked out last night? I found her in the freezing cold, just staring into the distance like she couldn’t believe what happened. I actually told her I would talk to you about it, but when I got to your room, you were already asleep.”<br /> His words hit me like arrows to the heart. I can almost picture Claudia standing where I left her, crying and wondering what she did wrong, all the while I was sleeping soundly with no care in the world….<br /> No. I can’t think about that. It hurts too much.<br /> I step back, the tightness in my chest so extreme that I have to inhale and exhale slowly. Every time I blink I see her distraught face and hear her broken voice, appealing her case and showing me that she deserved to stay.<br /> And what did I do? I kicked her right out like she meant nothing.<br /> Like we never had anything together.<br /> I swallow hard. ‘I need her back here. I made a mistake.’<br /> “Then let’s go to the maids’ quarters,” Kiernan offers. “Maybe she’s still there.”<br /> I nod, and together, we barge into the lower floor where the maids stay. The rooms are already empty as they start their day at dawn. Every empty room we pass makes me want to punch something in regret, but I can still catch the sweet scent of Claudia in the air, lingering like a whisper. Finally, we arrive at her room, where her scent is strongest. The door is still closed.<br /> Kiernan lifts his hand to knock, but I’m desperate. I open the door.<br /> And there is one person inside the room. But it’s not Claudia.<br /> It’s a maid I remember as Maia, her best friend here. She whips around as soon as we get in, and I immediately see her swollen eyes and red face.<br /> “Alpha,” she mutters, sinking into a bow. “Gamma. I will go to work as soon as possible.”<br /> “No, take the time you need,” Kiernan says. “You are obviously in distress. What happened?”<br /> My breath gets stuck in my throat. I already know what she’s going to say, but I find myself searching the room in hopes of finding any proof that Claudia actually chose to stay.<br /> However, the room is blissfully empty. Vacated for the next maid.<br /> “Claudia left, Gamma,” she answers. “She said she needed to go back to her family. It was just so unexpected. I asked her if it had something to do with the meeting, and she said no. She said she’s tired of working. I don’t believe that. She always loved working here….”<br /> I freeze in shock. Kiernan glances at me pointedly before turning back to Maia. “I completely understand. Please, take the day off and rest. The Alpha and I will get going now.”<br /> He grabs me by the arm and pulls me out of the room, closing the door behind us. I can’t even walk properly. I can’t believe what I just heard.<br /> After all the bad things I said to her, she still chose to cover for me.<br /> I stop moving as soon as we reach the foyer. I hold onto the stair banister for support, my throat closed up.<br /> Kiernan stands next to me. “What happened, Your Majesty?”<br /> ‘Don’t call me that,’ I sign to him. ‘Go prepare a carriage—no. A horse. Ready a horse for me. I will be setting out soon—’<br /> “No, you’re not,” he interjects, his eyebrows scrunched up. “You are the Alpha King. Do you know what it would mean to the Rogues if they took down the head of the whole land? The revolution would be over!”<br /> ‘Fine, I will do it myself.’ I try to push past him but he blocks me. ‘Move out of my way. I need Claudia back here right now.’<br /> He shakes his head, putting a firm hand on my chest. “You’d have to kill me if you want to leave alone.”<br /> Kiernan is one of my oldest friends and most loyal men. We’ve butted heads many times before, but not like this. I can see his quiet anger, and I know from the look in his eyes that he can feel mine. Still, he stands his ground, staring at me like he’s daring me to attack him right now.<br /> And I almost want to. The thought of Claudia getting farther and farther away is tearing my soul apart.<br /> But I take a deep breath to steady myself. ‘You don’t understand.’<br /> “Then make me understand.”<br /> ‘Claudia is important to me,’ I tell him after a pause. ‘The Moon Goddess told me so. She is the Siren and the Alpha’s Voice. I have to get her back or else—’<br /> “Alpha Achilles.”<br /> He signals me to turn around. I see Carlos standing by the end of the stairs, his torso still wrapped in bandages.<br /> However, he’s not alone. Standing next to him are the Housekeeper and the Chief Butler. Both of them are carrying files, laid out as though they’re asking for advice.<br /> ‘What is this?’ I signal to Carlos. ‘I don’t need any interruptions right now. I have somewhere else to go.’<br /> Carlos shakes his head to stop me. “Alpha… today is the Winter Solstice festival. Our pack is hosting. You cannot go anywhere.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 7<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> The journey from Sangria Amori to my hometown feels long and short at the same time. As I sit there in the carriage watching the palace disappear behind a mountain in the distance and begin to see the tall magnolia trees surrounding the famous springs of my home, I can’t help but feel a mixture of longing and relief.<br /> Longing because it’s been my home for years and years. I have made good memories and bonded with amazing people. I overcame a lot of bad things. I met the one I thought I would know forever.<br /> But the relief comes from the loss of all of that. From the knowledge that from now on, I would be free from that palace and everyone in it.<br /> Especially Achilles.<br /> My heart still makes a little flip at the simple thought of his name. I still have to clench my hands and pierce my own palms with my nails to remind myself that I shouldn’t be thinking about him. But thankfully, I don’t have to acknowledge it because the carriage finally stops. The coachman Peter calls out from the front, smacking the carriage door with his cane. “You’re here now, girl. It’s time to move out.”<br /> I gather all my bags and sling them all on my shoulders, slightly struggling with the weight as I climb down the rickety old carriage. “Thank you so much, Peter.”<br /> I give him a happy salute, about to head to the arch that reads Nightshade Springs. But then, I hear him calling out, “Are you sure you’re going to be safe from here on?”<br /> That makes me pause. So far, throughout the whole journey, I haven’t sensed any Rogues at all. But Peter has a point. The infestation of Rogues is very much real and rampant, and I haven’t been to my hometown in five years. I honestly don’t know what’s waiting in store for me here.<br /> But still, I don’t want to bother him. If there is any danger out here, I would rather face it; I know that he has a family.<br /> So I just smile at him. “I got it, Peter. Thank you again and be careful on your way back!”<br /> He looks uncertain, but he leaves anyway, whipping the horses until they gallop faster. Soon enough, he’s gone.<br /> And I’m alone in the middle of the woods, surrounded by the familiar fresh scent of springs and pine.<br /> The scent of home.<br /> A soft smile appears on my face as I start to walk, following the stone path that leads to the edge of the village where the cemetery is.<br /> I suppose it’s a grim thing to start with, but I’ve been meaning to visit my parents’ graves for the past years. Grief and the start of the revolution put a halt to all of that, so now I feel quite happy that I get to see them, even if it’s just this way.<br /> My mom was a maid like I am. Or was. Either way, she served the palace too, specifically as a handmaiden to the former Queen. My dad was a gardener. She died from deadly flu five years ago, and he followed right after.<br /> Back then, I thought this was unfair. How could they leave me in this world alone? I was resentful. But eventually, I realized that it may have been out of love. He was never able to be apart from her for any period of time, and not even death could stop him from chasing after her.<br /> They told me that they met each other at a gathering for servants, and my father fell in love with my mother when he first heard her sing. I honestly can’t blame him. She had the most wonderful voice, and he always said that I had that beautiful voice too. I never really knew if he was just making that up, but the ones who heard me sing also told me that I do have a pretty voice.<br /> The memory brings a smile to my face, and as I approach their graves, I find myself humming along to the tune of my mother’s lullaby.<br /> Their graves are now covered in ivy. I sweep some of the leaves away and light a candle for them.<br /> I sit there for a while, watching the light flicker on their gravestones. I reach out and feel the warmth, opening my mouth to talk to them like I always did, but that’s when something strikes me.<br /> The sour, rotten smell.<br /> My entire body freezes. I shoot to my feet, clutching my bags closer to me as I look around. My heart is beating in my ears and I almost want to whimper, but it only gets worse when I finally see a single Rogue.<br /> It’s hiding behind gravestones in the distance, its eyes gleaming with hunger and malice as they focus on me. Its low growls make the ground hum. There’s tension in the air, thick and suffocating, telling me it’s been stalking me like prey for a while now. It’s still far but ready to spring. Ready to chase and feed.<br /> And I know that if I take one step back, it will come out and kill me.<br /> I slowly exhale, stepping back and feeling it move with me, keeping the distance between us the same.<br /> Bit by bit, I ease my bags off my shoulders and set them down. The eyes of the Rogue follow my movement like two laser pointers. I slip my hand in my pocket, looking for the silver knife that Maia gave me as a parting gift, ready to it down.<br /> As though on cue, the Rogue leaps into the air as soon as I raise the knife.<br /> But I’m ready this time. I don’t come to meet it. Instead, I stand my ground, waiting for the perfect moment. As soon as it flies midair to pounce on me, I duck right under it and run the knife along its throat.<br /> The Rogue falls to the ground with a whimper. It scrambles to get upright again, but before it can do so, I stomp its fragile head flat with my boot, its blood spattering everywhere.<br /> “Thank the gods,” I mutter, but that’s when I realize that I spoke too soon.<br /> As soon as the Rogue stops moving, the forest seems to come alive right before me. More Rogues emerge from the trees, sniffing and snarling, their eyes alight with joy when they see a perfectly good meal severely outnumbered.<br /> All at once, they jump toward me.<br /> A scream breaks out of my lips. I raise my bags to shield myself, but at this point, it’s only a matter of time before they take me down and feast on me. I’m only waiting for the pain now….<br /> But before it can come, I hear loud bangs in the distance. Gunshots. Followed by the loud thuds of the Rogues hitting the ground, dropping like dead flies.<br /> I lower my bags in horror. All the Rogues are dead, their heads bleeding from a single smoking puncture wound between their eyes. I’m about to turn around to see my savior, but then I feel the still-hot muzzle of the gun against my back.<br /> “Drop your knife if you want to live. Who are you and what do you need?”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 8<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The first thing that rises out of me is not frustration from being told what to do, but embarrassment from forgetting about the big event. I know that Carlos just had a bad injury that he’s still most likely dealing with, but I have a situation on my hands that I just can’t shake off, but I can't help but avert my gaze in shame.<br /> Carlos, Kiernan, and the two head staff are staring at me expectantly, and I just want to sink into the ground and never reappear.<br /> I look over at Kiernan, who gives me a small shrug like he’s telling me that it’s all up to me.<br /> The obvious thing to do is to just delay the festival and focus on the very important task of finding Claudia. But I know that my people are counting on this one single happy day among all the bad ones. They need this. And as much as I need Claudia here with me, they come first.<br /> I take a deep, steadying breath. ‘I apologize. It must have slipped my mind. Prepare the decorations and we shall have a lunch banquet in the throne room.’<br /> Carlos nods and repeats my words to the head staff. Then, he turns back to me and asks, “How about the evening celebrations?”<br /> ‘We’ll see,’ I sign to him.<br /> With that, the head staff both bow and leave. Now it’s only the three of us, and they look pained.<br /> “So what’s been happening?” Carlos splutters at last. “Where are you going?”<br /> Kiernan is the one who answers for him. “He kicked out the maid, Claudia, and now he has to bring her back because the Moon Goddess told him so in a dream. He wants to go out there himself.”<br /> ‘I have to,’ I tell them both. 'I still do, but with the festival..."<br /> And of course, they just look at me like they feel sorry for me. I’m about to tell them both to supervise so I can go, but then Kiernan sighs and says, “I’ll get some of our warriors, and we will go and find her.”<br /> Without giving me a chance to say anything about this, Kiernan leaves. Carlos then looks at me and beckons me to go up the stairs.<br /> “After you, Alpha. Let’s give the people a good celebration.”<br /> * * *<br /> When I arrive at the throne room after changing into my formal suit, it is already decked with blue and silver decorations fit for the winter solstice theme. Food is flowing in, music is playing, and it seems that all the citizens are gathering.<br /> When Carlos and I enter, it takes me a whole while to notice that the throne room isn’t even halfway filled. As I sit on my throne, I see that my people are not eating, drinking, or having fun at all. They are just gathered at the little tables, engaged in serious conversation.<br /> More people are coming in, greeted by the butlers by the door. I keep thinking that this new batch will come and let loose, but they just gather like the rest of the guests.<br /> It’s starting to make me nervous. I agreed to this party thinking it would be best for their morale, but it seems that they’re just as uninterested in the occasion as I was.<br /> ‘This is not going well,’ I tell Carlos, who’s standing on my right side. He’s not fully recovered yet, but he insisted on coming here. ‘It would be best to cut this short.’<br /> As soon as I say those words, guilt starts to drum in my chest. I know that I should try to make things more festive instead of thinking about Claudia, but not knowing how things are on that front is almost as bad as being here and seeing my people feeling blue.<br /> “I think it would be best if you go down and communicate with them personally,” Carlos says, and I can’t believe I never thought of that before.<br /> I get up from my throne with the full intent of going around, but then I see a familiar face by the door. Someone I really don’t want to see.<br /> Alpha Tristan.<br /> He’s still wearing a coat, speckled with snow. The butler tries to take it from him but he pushes him away, which makes me tense up, immediately ready for a fight. However, he’s not alone. Walking behind him like lapdogs are the Alphas of his neighboring packs: Giorgio, Anthony, and Larkin.<br /> Their auras are so domineering and so distracting that the people in the throne room stop what they’re doing and just watch them approach me. But instead of meeting them halfway, I remain standing in front of the throne with the steps of the dais separating us.<br /> None of them bows down to me.<br /> “What are you doing here?” Carlos asks, and it perfectly reflects what’s in my mind, just more polite.<br /> Tristan flashes me a smirk. “We’re here because we’re tired of the preposterous games that Sangria Amori is playing. We need change!”<br /> Even though I can’t hear him, I can feel the vibrations of his scream on the walls and the floor. He’s livid, and because of this, the people in the room are tuning in.<br /> I don’t like the admiring and interested looks on their faces. I look at Carlos. ‘We shouldn’t have this talk here.’<br /> “Alpha Tristan.” Carlos gives him a strained smile, motioning him to come along. “We shall move this conversation to a more private location and perhaps—”<br /> “Get your hands off me.” Tristan pushes past him and squares up to me. “What you’re doing to these people is sickening. Making them show up here, forced to have fun, when they are suffering from problems you would never know about from your high throne. You’re making a mockery of their situation, flaunting your privilege in their faces.”<br /> I want to push him down the steps and pound his face into a pulp, but I restrain myself. Instead, I just sign something that Carlos translates with perfect contempt.<br /> “Get out, right now.”<br /> Tristan only scoffs, facing the people. “Last night, instead of meeting with the rest of the Alphas and coming up with a way to erase the Rogues, Alpha King Achilles was late. He left us on our own when we had a Rogue attack. It’s painfully obvious that his disabilities have made him selfish, and unfit to rule our land.”<br /> This time, my temper gets the best of me. I grab him by the arm with the full intent of punching him in the face as soon as he turns, but I stop when the people gasp.<br /> They’re now looking at me in horror.<br /> I slowly let him go. He starts to walk away, step by step, not taking his eyes off me. There’s a certain gleam in his eyes that I can’t identify, but the hairs on the back of my neck are standing on end.<br /> Only when he’s standing by the door do I know why.<br /> “We will no longer take orders from the Alpha King,” Tristan declares, his gaze still on me. “We will handle the Rogues our way, the right way. And those who want to join us would be offered full protection.”<br /> With that, he leaves.<br /> And I watch in horror as some of my citizens begin to get up from their seats, following him out.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 9<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> “Don’t shoot me,” I mutter, and I cringe when I hear the fear in my voice. I hate that I faced that single Rogue like a boss only to fold like this. “I’m not a danger to anyone. I’m a local here. I just moved for work at the palace…”<br /> I stop when I realize I’m about to ramble. I just drop the knife. As soon as it clatters on the floor, I feel the muzzle of the gun easing off my back. I take this as a cue to turn around, and I come face to face with a young man about my age, with straw-colored hair and brown eyes. He’s carrying a massive silver shotgun with rounds of big silver bullets around his body.<br /> He’s studying me closely, fixing his flannel shirt. “Who are you?”<br /> “Claudia Hale,” I say shakily. I even bow, which is dumb, but I guess it’s not so stupid if it stops him from shooting me. “I just came here to visit my parents.”<br /> At first, he doesn’t say anything. My nerves are starting to act up and I find myself basically skipping in my spot. But finally, he asks, “Hale, huh? Do you happen to be related to Ruth?”<br /> My eyes go wide. “Yes! Ruth is my cousin.”<br /> The man’s shoulders relax. He cracks a smile, and suddenly he doesn’t seem so scary anymore. “You must be the cousin she talks about a lot. The singer. I’m Max, by the way. Follow me.”<br /> We shake hands, and I can’t help but feel giddy.<br /> My cousin Ruth is here. I can’t believe it. We were very close as kids, even though we only saw each other over the summers. She left Nightshade Springs when we were both eighteen, and the last thing I heard about her was that she got married to a mason from the nearby village. We saw each other at my dad’s funeral, but we didn’t get to talk much because of my own grief.<br /> But now, I’m going to see her. I wonder if she has kids now.<br /> The thought of little babies running around makes me so excited, so much so that I almost forget to follow Max as he leads me out of the cemetery through an unfamiliar path. I quickly pick up the knife and run after him.<br /> I frown as I pull level with Max. "Why are we using this path?"<br /> The moment the question leaves my lips, the answer comes to me when we turn a corner.<br /> For the first time, I come face to face with the aftermath of the Rogue infestation.<br /> The village is now completely deserted. The houses are dilapidated, empty and broken. The smell of Rogues is present, but distant, which tells me that the place is visited frequently but they're not actually here. Dried blood is scattered all over the ground like paint.<br /> "That's animal blood," Max explains, following the direction of my gaze. "We vacated this place a long time ago. We still live in this area, but we decided to stick close together to protect ourselves from the Rogues. We figured that it would be best if we show them a strong front. The Kingdom doesn't really do much for us, so we have to take matters into our own hands."<br /> I swallow hard, averting my gaze as we turn another corner, a hidden path behind a small hill.<br /> "Does the Kingdom not visit the villages at all?" I ask.<br /> Max shakes his head. "Nope. Not at all. They send guards from time to time, but you see how many Rogues there are. You know how violent they can be. We needed weapons to protect ourselves, but they just won't provide that. I think they keep it to themselves, leave everyone else defenseless."<br /> I keep quiet. I don't know what to say. Part of me wants to defend the palace. I mean, I know they have it hard, and Achilles is doing his best. But then again, who am I to dismiss their suffering?<br /> I open my mouth to ask where they got their weapons, but then we arrive at a fenced part of the village. Barbed wires are set on tall metal walls, behind which small compact buildings stand proud.<br /> He opens the gate carefully, and we both enter. There are a couple of villages standing watch, carrying guns similar to his. They stare at me, and I have to lower my head to avoid the intensity of their looks.<br /> I want to tell Max that I just want to see Ruth, but before I can get the question out, I see two people running towards me.<br /> I look up and my heart nearly gives out when I see that it's Ruth, together with a tall bearded man who must be her husband.<br /> "Claudia!" she squeals, and before I can even drop my bags, she scoops me up into a big hug. "You're home! It's been so long!"<br /> I blink the tears away when she lets me go. "I figured it was time to retire and just stay here."<br /> I feel guilty. I lied to Maia and now I'm lying to Ruth.<br /> “You loved that job, but I do understand,” she says, and I can’t help but be thankful that she didn’t press me for more details. “This is my husband, Henry. We live in one of the apartments. You can stay with us if you like, but I think it would be best if you get your own room.”<br /> “It’s nice to meet you,” Henry says, taking my bags from me. “I will take these up to your room.”<br /> I smile. “Thank you so much.”<br /> He and Max leave, and Ruth takes my arm, steering me into a small structure at the foot of one of the buildings. I can hear cheers and smell food from outside, and I find myself relaxing when I see that it’s a pub. Men and women alike are laughing and talking, downing jugs of beer and eating fried food. It’s quite fascinating to see so much life and joy in a single space in this lost land, but I can’t help but feel grateful.<br /> Ruth and I sit on the counter. The bartender slides two jugs of beer and a platter of steaming chips. I grab the chips even though they’re hot, stuffing them all in my mouth and drinking the beer. Everything is strangely fresh, and I can’t help but gobble it all up. Ruth watches me with amusement as she sips her drink.<br /> “Do they not feed you up there?” she jokes, shaking her head. “Honestly, I don’t blame you for going home. It must have been hell there.”<br /> My appetite suddenly vanishes. “Well, it’s not so bad. But nothing like home, yes.” I clear my throat, desperate for a change of topic. “So, Max found me in the cemetery. He’s… an interesting character.”<br /> “I know, he mind-linked it to me.” She shrugs. “Max is kind of an asshole, but I get why. He had to step up as our leader when the palace guards left us. He looted all those guns that we use now, so the only thing we have to forge are bullets. Screw the Kingdom and that deaf-mute idiot who rules it.”<br /> My face goes hot. I want to defend Achilles. I want to tell Ruth not to call him that, but then again, he kicked me out for defending him.<br /> “Is everyone doing the same?” I start to ask, but then a small commotion breaks out in the corner of the pub where the entrance is.<br /> “Hey, keep that bastard out!” I hear some of the men yelling.<br /> “He barged right in and demanded entry!”<br /> “It’s one of those palace fuckers!”<br /> I freeze. Ruth and I both slide out of our stools, looking over at the chaos.<br /> My heart jumps right into my throat when I see Gamma Kiernan trying to force his way inside the pub.<br /> “Bring me Claudia Hale, and we will not have any problems.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 10<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Panic takes a hold of me. Suddenly, I feel my entire body going numb. I can feel Ruth beside me and I can hear her saying something, but it’s like my mind is tuning out. All I can hear are muffled voices. All I can feel is my heart hammering inside my ribs like it wants to get out.<br /> I blink a couple of times as we get pushed back by the ongoing commotion. For a moment I’m certain that I’m not seeing things correctly, but I’m wrong.<br /> Gamma Kiernan is really here, and he’s looking for me.<br /> “No way you’re getting in,” the men at the entrance keep telling him. “Pack it up and leave!”<br /> “I will not leave until you bring Claudia Hale here,” he insists. “I can smell her scent in the air. I know you’re hiding her. Back off, and no one gets hurt.”<br /> “How dare you threaten us?”<br /> With that, the chaos ensues. Now there are so many men blocking his way, and soon enough, women are clamoring to shoo him out of the pub too. I can see his expression. I know that he can take these men down if he wants to, but he’s restraining himself.<br /> The urge to step up and show myself before things get ugly overcomes me, but then Ruth wheels around and dunks my head down, preventing me from getting seen.<br /> “Why the hell are they looking for you?” Ruth demands. “Did you do something?”<br /> “No,” I begin to say, but that’s when I feel a strong hand dragging me back.<br /> “Ow!” I complain under my breath, feeling myself getting yanked back into the corner by this strong person. I turn around and see Max. He’s squeezing my arm so hard that I can almost feel the bruises appearing. “Let me go!”<br /> He just glares at me. “You are not going to show yourself to that upstart. You’re going to stay here behind the bar. Understand?”<br /> “No!” I snatch my arm back from him. “Do you want your people to get hurt?”<br /> His eyes flash with anger. “You’re really assuming we’re the ones who’d get hurt? You put too much faith in those men who don’t do anything but sit on their asses and command the lower people to fight for them.”<br /> I realize that he’s referring to the palace royals, including Achilles. His claims are so false that I square up to him, shoving him back. “You have no idea what you’re talking about! Those men risk their lives for us!”<br /> “Maybe for you,” Max growls dryly, “but never for me.”<br /> The next events happen so fast. So much so that I don’t even get the time to react. Max just grabs me by the shoulders, pushes me right into the broom closet, and props a chair against the doorknob to basically lock it from outside. I fall on the floor, flat on my behind, but then I spring up to my feet to try to ram it down.<br /> “Let me out!” I scream, but I doubt anyone would hear me from the absolute meltdown happening outside.<br /> I could shift into my wolf and break the door, but I think I would end up demolishing half the pub in the process. So even though I want to end this, I just stay by the door, pressing my ear against it and listening as best as I can.<br /> That’s when I hear Max announcing, “Silence, everyone. Let the man speak.”<br /> The people immediately shut up, which surprises me. It seems that everyone really recognizes him as their leader. I can almost picture him stepping up to Gamma Kiernan.<br /> “Thank you,” Gamma Kiernan says. “As I was trying to say before I got swarmed, I need Claudia Hale.”<br /> “Why?” Max asks in a calm, almost lazy tone.<br /> “Because the Alpha King says so,” Gamma Kiernan replies in a similar voice. “We don’t want any trouble with the King, do we?”<br /> “Oh, no, we don’t,” Max answers, but this time, he sounds perfectly sarcastic. I can hear the others around him letting out a laugh. “We really don’t. But you see, Claudia isn’t here.”<br /> Silence fills the air. I want to scream at the top of my lungs to alert everyone of my presence, but I’m stunned. Petrified, really. Did the Gamma really say that it’s Alpha Achilles who’s asking for me?<br /> But why? Why would he look for me? It hasn’t even been a day since I left. Does he regret all the things he did, all the things he said to me? Did he realize that I didn’t actually do anything wrong, and he punished me out of pure pride and possibly stupidity?<br /> Now that’s something I want to hear. I want him to say sorry.<br /> I’m about to scream when suddenly, I hear Gamma Kiernan saying, “I can smell her. Do not fucking lie to me.”<br /> Somehow, I’m able to sense something about to go wrong before it even transpires. I make a move to ram the door down before things can break out, but it’s too late.<br /> Before I can even do anything, I hear Max saying in a low voice, “Deal with this bastard.”<br /> And then, hell breaks loose.<br /> It’s so loud I can almost see it. The men in the pub all yell for battle and the sounds that follow root me to my spot. More screams. Thuds from bodies hitting the floor and the walls. Broken glass. Snapping wood. Arrows whizzing. Wolves howling. Gunshots. So many gunshots….<br /> Soon enough, the smell of blood fills the air, and my heart nearly stops.<br /> It seems to go on forever, the sound and the smell and the carnage. I can make out specific voices like Gamma Kiernan’s, telling his men to stand down and leave. I can hear Max telling his people to pursue them, to drive them back and make sure they learn their lesson. On and on and on it goes.<br /> But just when I think that it’s never going to end, silence follows.<br /> It’s almost eerie. One can hear a pin drop. Who got shot? Did anyone die?<br /> The thought of death because of me is what finally breaks me. I ram down the door without shifting into my wolf form, but when I arrive at the bar, it’s too late. I can hear the sound of horses whinnying outside, their hooves hitting the ground in loud thuds as they run fast. I see the flash of the red carriage through the broken windows.<br /> I look all over the floor to see if anyone has fallen, but aside from the smears of blood, it seems that everyone made it out alive.<br /> At least, from this party.<br /> I don’t know if I can say the same about the people from the palace.<br /> Suddenly, Max enters the pub, sporting a broken nose. He tears off a piece of his shirt and uses it to dab on the blood, but I march toward him and snatch it right out of his hand. “What did you do?”<br /> “Showed them that they have no business here,” he says simply, taking the strip of fabric back from me. “The only thing I should be hearing from you is thank you, unless…”<br /> Everyone in the pub looks at me.<br /> Ruth is the one who gets up and turns to me. “What did you do, Claudia? Why are they looking for you?”<br /> Max crosses his arms. "Give us a good reason why we shouldn't kick you out of here. Now." | Popular Novels | 15 | https://facebook.com/100091852266052 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846795 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446611 | 1735168093 | 890 | 690004706465416 | 1 | 4.5303494043365E+14 | 1712300400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 127476320437895 | 0 | Joylit Novel | 120209381871910155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | video | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712247653 | 1.274763204379E+14 | Joylit Novel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434556834_303239556118622_5498646322134783509_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MqDL5Hao3MEQ7kNvgEFYtxj&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAJUbQ1Qey07qOF288QboB2Jt08VQD51iQd5Wyiw43S1g&oe=6663FA72 | person_profile | 0 | Joylit Novel | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435508956_1469620883907092_7033058298699478901_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Q3521WGiFLcQ7kNvgG-nCZp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD7a1O89s0QuR-k5EKBFr7XGyOLUWnVEh0vv10kr6kbFg&oe=66640D62 | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 6<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> I wake up with a gasp, sitting up abruptly like a marionette whose strings got yanked. My head starts to spin, but it’s not because there was no gentle introduction to the waking world.<br /> It’s because of the dream.<br /> Because of Claudia.<br /> I clutch my chest and feel that my heart is going haywire. My back is slick with sweat and I can almost feel it soaking my sheets. I close my eyes for a moment, gathering my thoughts, but the first thing I see in the darkness is Claudia’s face. Her voice is ringing in my ears, the first voice I have heard in so many years.<br /> She’s the Siren, the Moon Goddess said. The Alpha’s Voice.<br /> What does that mean? What does it have to do with me? What does that make her? I have more questions than answers and the frustration building up inside me is turning into anger. I don’t want that. I have to focus.<br /> Because if there is one thing I know, it’s that I fucked up by demanding her to leave.<br /> And I need to get her back.<br /> Fueled by the sudden fiery desire to chase after her and hold her down in the castle if I need to, I jump out of bed. I push open the door and startle the guards. I can see them mouthing, “What is the trouble, Alpha?”<br /> I ignore all of them. I just run along the hallway until I find Kiernan’s room. The guards step aside when they see me, so I push open the door, stumbling inside like a sweaty, clumsy ogre.<br /> Meanwhile, Kiernan is still awake, staring through the window. My heart sinks when I see that it’s already daylight outside, but I still have to try. I need to.<br /> Kiernan turns around, frowns at me, and asks, “Your Majesty. What brings you here?”<br /> He knows that it irks me when he calls me that, but I ignore it anyway. 'I need to find the maid, Claudia.'<br /> I thought he would ask why, but he just narrows his eyes. “The maid you kicked out last night? I found her in the freezing cold, just staring into the distance like she couldn’t believe what happened. I actually told her I would talk to you about it, but when I got to your room, you were already asleep.”<br /> His words hit me like arrows to the heart. I can almost picture Claudia standing where I left her, crying and wondering what she did wrong, all the while I was sleeping soundly with no care in the world….<br /> No. I can’t think about that. It hurts too much.<br /> I step back, the tightness in my chest so extreme that I have to inhale and exhale slowly. Every time I blink I see her distraught face and hear her broken voice, appealing her case and showing me that she deserved to stay.<br /> And what did I do? I kicked her right out like she meant nothing.<br /> Like we never had anything together.<br /> I swallow hard. ‘I need her back here. I made a mistake.’<br /> “Then let’s go to the maids’ quarters,” Kiernan offers. “Maybe she’s still there.”<br /> I nod, and together, we barge into the lower floor where the maids stay. The rooms are already empty as they start their day at dawn. Every empty room we pass makes me want to punch something in regret, but I can still catch the sweet scent of Claudia in the air, lingering like a whisper. Finally, we arrive at her room, where her scent is strongest. The door is still closed.<br /> Kiernan lifts his hand to knock, but I’m desperate. I open the door.<br /> And there is one person inside the room. But it’s not Claudia.<br /> It’s a maid I remember as Maia, her best friend here. She whips around as soon as we get in, and I immediately see her swollen eyes and red face.<br /> “Alpha,” she mutters, sinking into a bow. “Gamma. I will go to work as soon as possible.”<br /> “No, take the time you need,” Kiernan says. “You are obviously in distress. What happened?”<br /> My breath gets stuck in my throat. I already know what she’s going to say, but I find myself searching the room in hopes of finding any proof that Claudia actually chose to stay.<br /> However, the room is blissfully empty. Vacated for the next maid.<br /> “Claudia left, Gamma,” she answers. “She said she needed to go back to her family. It was just so unexpected. I asked her if it had something to do with the meeting, and she said no. She said she’s tired of working. I don’t believe that. She always loved working here….”<br /> I freeze in shock. Kiernan glances at me pointedly before turning back to Maia. “I completely understand. Please, take the day off and rest. The Alpha and I will get going now.”<br /> He grabs me by the arm and pulls me out of the room, closing the door behind us. I can’t even walk properly. I can’t believe what I just heard.<br /> After all the bad things I said to her, she still chose to cover for me.<br /> I stop moving as soon as we reach the foyer. I hold onto the stair banister for support, my throat closed up.<br /> Kiernan stands next to me. “What happened, Your Majesty?”<br /> ‘Don’t call me that,’ I sign to him. ‘Go prepare a carriage—no. A horse. Ready a horse for me. I will be setting out soon—’<br /> “No, you’re not,” he interjects, his eyebrows scrunched up. “You are the Alpha King. Do you know what it would mean to the Rogues if they took down the head of the whole land? The revolution would be over!”<br /> ‘Fine, I will do it myself.’ I try to push past him but he blocks me. ‘Move out of my way. I need Claudia back here right now.’<br /> He shakes his head, putting a firm hand on my chest. “You’d have to kill me if you want to leave alone.”<br /> Kiernan is one of my oldest friends and most loyal men. We’ve butted heads many times before, but not like this. I can see his quiet anger, and I know from the look in his eyes that he can feel mine. Still, he stands his ground, staring at me like he’s daring me to attack him right now.<br /> And I almost want to. The thought of Claudia getting farther and farther away is tearing my soul apart.<br /> But I take a deep breath to steady myself. ‘You don’t understand.’<br /> “Then make me understand.”<br /> ‘Claudia is important to me,’ I tell him after a pause. ‘The Moon Goddess told me so. She is the Siren and the Alpha’s Voice. I have to get her back or else—’<br /> “Alpha Achilles.”<br /> He signals me to turn around. I see Carlos standing by the end of the stairs, his torso still wrapped in bandages.<br /> However, he’s not alone. Standing next to him are the Housekeeper and the Chief Butler. Both of them are carrying files, laid out as though they’re asking for advice.<br /> ‘What is this?’ I signal to Carlos. ‘I don’t need any interruptions right now. I have somewhere else to go.’<br /> Carlos shakes his head to stop me. “Alpha… today is the Winter Solstice festival. Our pack is hosting. You cannot go anywhere.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 7<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> The journey from Sangria Amori to my hometown feels long and short at the same time. As I sit there in the carriage watching the palace disappear behind a mountain in the distance and begin to see the tall magnolia trees surrounding the famous springs of my home, I can’t help but feel a mixture of longing and relief.<br /> Longing because it’s been my home for years and years. I have made good memories and bonded with amazing people. I overcame a lot of bad things. I met the one I thought I would know forever.<br /> But the relief comes from the loss of all of that. From the knowledge that from now on, I would be free from that palace and everyone in it.<br /> Especially Achilles.<br /> My heart still makes a little flip at the simple thought of his name. I still have to clench my hands and pierce my own palms with my nails to remind myself that I shouldn’t be thinking about him. But thankfully, I don’t have to acknowledge it because the carriage finally stops. The coachman Peter calls out from the front, smacking the carriage door with his cane. “You’re here now, girl. It’s time to move out.”<br /> I gather all my bags and sling them all on my shoulders, slightly struggling with the weight as I climb down the rickety old carriage. “Thank you so much, Peter.”<br /> I give him a happy salute, about to head to the arch that reads Nightshade Springs. But then, I hear him calling out, “Are you sure you’re going to be safe from here on?”<br /> That makes me pause. So far, throughout the whole journey, I haven’t sensed any Rogues at all. But Peter has a point. The infestation of Rogues is very much real and rampant, and I haven’t been to my hometown in five years. I honestly don’t know what’s waiting in store for me here.<br /> But still, I don’t want to bother him. If there is any danger out here, I would rather face it; I know that he has a family.<br /> So I just smile at him. “I got it, Peter. Thank you again and be careful on your way back!”<br /> He looks uncertain, but he leaves anyway, whipping the horses until they gallop faster. Soon enough, he’s gone.<br /> And I’m alone in the middle of the woods, surrounded by the familiar fresh scent of springs and pine.<br /> The scent of home.<br /> A soft smile appears on my face as I start to walk, following the stone path that leads to the edge of the village where the cemetery is.<br /> I suppose it’s a grim thing to start with, but I’ve been meaning to visit my parents’ graves for the past years. Grief and the start of the revolution put a halt to all of that, so now I feel quite happy that I get to see them, even if it’s just this way.<br /> My mom was a maid like I am. Or was. Either way, she served the palace too, specifically as a handmaiden to the former Queen. My dad was a gardener. She died from deadly flu five years ago, and he followed right after.<br /> Back then, I thought this was unfair. How could they leave me in this world alone? I was resentful. But eventually, I realized that it may have been out of love. He was never able to be apart from her for any period of time, and not even death could stop him from chasing after her.<br /> They told me that they met each other at a gathering for servants, and my father fell in love with my mother when he first heard her sing. I honestly can’t blame him. She had the most wonderful voice, and he always said that I had that beautiful voice too. I never really knew if he was just making that up, but the ones who heard me sing also told me that I do have a pretty voice.<br /> The memory brings a smile to my face, and as I approach their graves, I find myself humming along to the tune of my mother’s lullaby.<br /> Their graves are now covered in ivy. I sweep some of the leaves away and light a candle for them.<br /> I sit there for a while, watching the light flicker on their gravestones. I reach out and feel the warmth, opening my mouth to talk to them like I always did, but that’s when something strikes me.<br /> The sour, rotten smell.<br /> My entire body freezes. I shoot to my feet, clutching my bags closer to me as I look around. My heart is beating in my ears and I almost want to whimper, but it only gets worse when I finally see a single Rogue.<br /> It’s hiding behind gravestones in the distance, its eyes gleaming with hunger and malice as they focus on me. Its low growls make the ground hum. There’s tension in the air, thick and suffocating, telling me it’s been stalking me like prey for a while now. It’s still far but ready to spring. Ready to chase and feed.<br /> And I know that if I take one step back, it will come out and kill me.<br /> I slowly exhale, stepping back and feeling it move with me, keeping the distance between us the same.<br /> Bit by bit, I ease my bags off my shoulders and set them down. The eyes of the Rogue follow my movement like two laser pointers. I slip my hand in my pocket, looking for the silver knife that Maia gave me as a parting gift, ready to it down.<br /> As though on cue, the Rogue leaps into the air as soon as I raise the knife.<br /> But I’m ready this time. I don’t come to meet it. Instead, I stand my ground, waiting for the perfect moment. As soon as it flies midair to pounce on me, I duck right under it and run the knife along its throat.<br /> The Rogue falls to the ground with a whimper. It scrambles to get upright again, but before it can do so, I stomp its fragile head flat with my boot, its blood spattering everywhere.<br /> “Thank the gods,” I mutter, but that’s when I realize that I spoke too soon.<br /> As soon as the Rogue stops moving, the forest seems to come alive right before me. More Rogues emerge from the trees, sniffing and snarling, their eyes alight with joy when they see a perfectly good meal severely outnumbered.<br /> All at once, they jump toward me.<br /> A scream breaks out of my lips. I raise my bags to shield myself, but at this point, it’s only a matter of time before they take me down and feast on me. I’m only waiting for the pain now….<br /> But before it can come, I hear loud bangs in the distance. Gunshots. Followed by the loud thuds of the Rogues hitting the ground, dropping like dead flies.<br /> I lower my bags in horror. All the Rogues are dead, their heads bleeding from a single smoking puncture wound between their eyes. I’m about to turn around to see my savior, but then I feel the still-hot muzzle of the gun against my back.<br /> “Drop your knife if you want to live. Who are you and what do you need?”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 8<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The first thing that rises out of me is not frustration from being told what to do, but embarrassment from forgetting about the big event. I know that Carlos just had a bad injury that he’s still most likely dealing with, but I have a situation on my hands that I just can’t shake off, but I can't help but avert my gaze in shame.<br /> Carlos, Kiernan, and the two head staff are staring at me expectantly, and I just want to sink into the ground and never reappear.<br /> I look over at Kiernan, who gives me a small shrug like he’s telling me that it’s all up to me.<br /> The obvious thing to do is to just delay the festival and focus on the very important task of finding Claudia. But I know that my people are counting on this one single happy day among all the bad ones. They need this. And as much as I need Claudia here with me, they come first.<br /> I take a deep, steadying breath. ‘I apologize. It must have slipped my mind. Prepare the decorations and we shall have a lunch banquet in the throne room.’<br /> Carlos nods and repeats my words to the head staff. Then, he turns back to me and asks, “How about the evening celebrations?”<br /> ‘We’ll see,’ I sign to him.<br /> With that, the head staff both bow and leave. Now it’s only the three of us, and they look pained.<br /> “So what’s been happening?” Carlos splutters at last. “Where are you going?”<br /> Kiernan is the one who answers for him. “He kicked out the maid, Claudia, and now he has to bring her back because the Moon Goddess told him so in a dream. He wants to go out there himself.”<br /> ‘I have to,’ I tell them both. 'I still do, but with the festival..."<br /> And of course, they just look at me like they feel sorry for me. I’m about to tell them both to supervise so I can go, but then Kiernan sighs and says, “I’ll get some of our warriors, and we will go and find her.”<br /> Without giving me a chance to say anything about this, Kiernan leaves. Carlos then looks at me and beckons me to go up the stairs.<br /> “After you, Alpha. Let’s give the people a good celebration.”<br /> * * *<br /> When I arrive at the throne room after changing into my formal suit, it is already decked with blue and silver decorations fit for the winter solstice theme. Food is flowing in, music is playing, and it seems that all the citizens are gathering.<br /> When Carlos and I enter, it takes me a whole while to notice that the throne room isn’t even halfway filled. As I sit on my throne, I see that my people are not eating, drinking, or having fun at all. They are just gathered at the little tables, engaged in serious conversation.<br /> More people are coming in, greeted by the butlers by the door. I keep thinking that this new batch will come and let loose, but they just gather like the rest of the guests.<br /> It’s starting to make me nervous. I agreed to this party thinking it would be best for their morale, but it seems that they’re just as uninterested in the occasion as I was.<br /> ‘This is not going well,’ I tell Carlos, who’s standing on my right side. He’s not fully recovered yet, but he insisted on coming here. ‘It would be best to cut this short.’<br /> As soon as I say those words, guilt starts to drum in my chest. I know that I should try to make things more festive instead of thinking about Claudia, but not knowing how things are on that front is almost as bad as being here and seeing my people feeling blue.<br /> “I think it would be best if you go down and communicate with them personally,” Carlos says, and I can’t believe I never thought of that before.<br /> I get up from my throne with the full intent of going around, but then I see a familiar face by the door. Someone I really don’t want to see.<br /> Alpha Tristan.<br /> He’s still wearing a coat, speckled with snow. The butler tries to take it from him but he pushes him away, which makes me tense up, immediately ready for a fight. However, he’s not alone. Walking behind him like lapdogs are the Alphas of his neighboring packs: Giorgio, Anthony, and Larkin.<br /> Their auras are so domineering and so distracting that the people in the throne room stop what they’re doing and just watch them approach me. But instead of meeting them halfway, I remain standing in front of the throne with the steps of the dais separating us.<br /> None of them bows down to me.<br /> “What are you doing here?” Carlos asks, and it perfectly reflects what’s in my mind, just more polite.<br /> Tristan flashes me a smirk. “We’re here because we’re tired of the preposterous games that Sangria Amori is playing. We need change!”<br /> Even though I can’t hear him, I can feel the vibrations of his scream on the walls and the floor. He’s livid, and because of this, the people in the room are tuning in.<br /> I don’t like the admiring and interested looks on their faces. I look at Carlos. ‘We shouldn’t have this talk here.’<br /> “Alpha Tristan.” Carlos gives him a strained smile, motioning him to come along. “We shall move this conversation to a more private location and perhaps—”<br /> “Get your hands off me.” Tristan pushes past him and squares up to me. “What you’re doing to these people is sickening. Making them show up here, forced to have fun, when they are suffering from problems you would never know about from your high throne. You’re making a mockery of their situation, flaunting your privilege in their faces.”<br /> I want to push him down the steps and pound his face into a pulp, but I restrain myself. Instead, I just sign something that Carlos translates with perfect contempt.<br /> “Get out, right now.”<br /> Tristan only scoffs, facing the people. “Last night, instead of meeting with the rest of the Alphas and coming up with a way to erase the Rogues, Alpha King Achilles was late. He left us on our own when we had a Rogue attack. It’s painfully obvious that his disabilities have made him selfish, and unfit to rule our land.”<br /> This time, my temper gets the best of me. I grab him by the arm with the full intent of punching him in the face as soon as he turns, but I stop when the people gasp.<br /> They’re now looking at me in horror.<br /> I slowly let him go. He starts to walk away, step by step, not taking his eyes off me. There’s a certain gleam in his eyes that I can’t identify, but the hairs on the back of my neck are standing on end.<br /> Only when he’s standing by the door do I know why.<br /> “We will no longer take orders from the Alpha King,” Tristan declares, his gaze still on me. “We will handle the Rogues our way, the right way. And those who want to join us would be offered full protection.”<br /> With that, he leaves.<br /> And I watch in horror as some of my citizens begin to get up from their seats, following him out.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 9<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> “Don’t shoot me,” I mutter, and I cringe when I hear the fear in my voice. I hate that I faced that single Rogue like a boss only to fold like this. “I’m not a danger to anyone. I’m a local here. I just moved for work at the palace…”<br /> I stop when I realize I’m about to ramble. I just drop the knife. As soon as it clatters on the floor, I feel the muzzle of the gun easing off my back. I take this as a cue to turn around, and I come face to face with a young man about my age, with straw-colored hair and brown eyes. He’s carrying a massive silver shotgun with rounds of big silver bullets around his body.<br /> He’s studying me closely, fixing his flannel shirt. “Who are you?”<br /> “Claudia Hale,” I say shakily. I even bow, which is dumb, but I guess it’s not so stupid if it stops him from shooting me. “I just came here to visit my parents.”<br /> At first, he doesn’t say anything. My nerves are starting to act up and I find myself basically skipping in my spot. But finally, he asks, “Hale, huh? Do you happen to be related to Ruth?”<br /> My eyes go wide. “Yes! Ruth is my cousin.”<br /> The man’s shoulders relax. He cracks a smile, and suddenly he doesn’t seem so scary anymore. “You must be the cousin she talks about a lot. The singer. I’m Max, by the way. Follow me.”<br /> We shake hands, and I can’t help but feel giddy.<br /> My cousin Ruth is here. I can’t believe it. We were very close as kids, even though we only saw each other over the summers. She left Nightshade Springs when we were both eighteen, and the last thing I heard about her was that she got married to a mason from the nearby village. We saw each other at my dad’s funeral, but we didn’t get to talk much because of my own grief.<br /> But now, I’m going to see her. I wonder if she has kids now.<br /> The thought of little babies running around makes me so excited, so much so that I almost forget to follow Max as he leads me out of the cemetery through an unfamiliar path. I quickly pick up the knife and run after him.<br /> I frown as I pull level with Max. "Why are we using this path?"<br /> The moment the question leaves my lips, the answer comes to me when we turn a corner.<br /> For the first time, I come face to face with the aftermath of the Rogue infestation.<br /> The village is now completely deserted. The houses are dilapidated, empty and broken. The smell of Rogues is present, but distant, which tells me that the place is visited frequently but they're not actually here. Dried blood is scattered all over the ground like paint.<br /> "That's animal blood," Max explains, following the direction of my gaze. "We vacated this place a long time ago. We still live in this area, but we decided to stick close together to protect ourselves from the Rogues. We figured that it would be best if we show them a strong front. The Kingdom doesn't really do much for us, so we have to take matters into our own hands."<br /> I swallow hard, averting my gaze as we turn another corner, a hidden path behind a small hill.<br /> "Does the Kingdom not visit the villages at all?" I ask.<br /> Max shakes his head. "Nope. Not at all. They send guards from time to time, but you see how many Rogues there are. You know how violent they can be. We needed weapons to protect ourselves, but they just won't provide that. I think they keep it to themselves, leave everyone else defenseless."<br /> I keep quiet. I don't know what to say. Part of me wants to defend the palace. I mean, I know they have it hard, and Achilles is doing his best. But then again, who am I to dismiss their suffering?<br /> I open my mouth to ask where they got their weapons, but then we arrive at a fenced part of the village. Barbed wires are set on tall metal walls, behind which small compact buildings stand proud.<br /> He opens the gate carefully, and we both enter. There are a couple of villages standing watch, carrying guns similar to his. They stare at me, and I have to lower my head to avoid the intensity of their looks.<br /> I want to tell Max that I just want to see Ruth, but before I can get the question out, I see two people running towards me.<br /> I look up and my heart nearly gives out when I see that it's Ruth, together with a tall bearded man who must be her husband.<br /> "Claudia!" she squeals, and before I can even drop my bags, she scoops me up into a big hug. "You're home! It's been so long!"<br /> I blink the tears away when she lets me go. "I figured it was time to retire and just stay here."<br /> I feel guilty. I lied to Maia and now I'm lying to Ruth.<br /> “You loved that job, but I do understand,” she says, and I can’t help but be thankful that she didn’t press me for more details. “This is my husband, Henry. We live in one of the apartments. You can stay with us if you like, but I think it would be best if you get your own room.”<br /> “It’s nice to meet you,” Henry says, taking my bags from me. “I will take these up to your room.”<br /> I smile. “Thank you so much.”<br /> He and Max leave, and Ruth takes my arm, steering me into a small structure at the foot of one of the buildings. I can hear cheers and smell food from outside, and I find myself relaxing when I see that it’s a pub. Men and women alike are laughing and talking, downing jugs of beer and eating fried food. It’s quite fascinating to see so much life and joy in a single space in this lost land, but I can’t help but feel grateful.<br /> Ruth and I sit on the counter. The bartender slides two jugs of beer and a platter of steaming chips. I grab the chips even though they’re hot, stuffing them all in my mouth and drinking the beer. Everything is strangely fresh, and I can’t help but gobble it all up. Ruth watches me with amusement as she sips her drink.<br /> “Do they not feed you up there?” she jokes, shaking her head. “Honestly, I don’t blame you for going home. It must have been hell there.”<br /> My appetite suddenly vanishes. “Well, it’s not so bad. But nothing like home, yes.” I clear my throat, desperate for a change of topic. “So, Max found me in the cemetery. He’s… an interesting character.”<br /> “I know, he mind-linked it to me.” She shrugs. “Max is kind of an asshole, but I get why. He had to step up as our leader when the palace guards left us. He looted all those guns that we use now, so the only thing we have to forge are bullets. Screw the Kingdom and that deaf-mute idiot who rules it.”<br /> My face goes hot. I want to defend Achilles. I want to tell Ruth not to call him that, but then again, he kicked me out for defending him.<br /> “Is everyone doing the same?” I start to ask, but then a small commotion breaks out in the corner of the pub where the entrance is.<br /> “Hey, keep that bastard out!” I hear some of the men yelling.<br /> “He barged right in and demanded entry!”<br /> “It’s one of those palace fuckers!”<br /> I freeze. Ruth and I both slide out of our stools, looking over at the chaos.<br /> My heart jumps right into my throat when I see Gamma Kiernan trying to force his way inside the pub.<br /> “Bring me Claudia Hale, and we will not have any problems.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 10<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Panic takes a hold of me. Suddenly, I feel my entire body going numb. I can feel Ruth beside me and I can hear her saying something, but it’s like my mind is tuning out. All I can hear are muffled voices. All I can feel is my heart hammering inside my ribs like it wants to get out.<br /> I blink a couple of times as we get pushed back by the ongoing commotion. For a moment I’m certain that I’m not seeing things correctly, but I’m wrong.<br /> Gamma Kiernan is really here, and he’s looking for me.<br /> “No way you’re getting in,” the men at the entrance keep telling him. “Pack it up and leave!”<br /> “I will not leave until you bring Claudia Hale here,” he insists. “I can smell her scent in the air. I know you’re hiding her. Back off, and no one gets hurt.”<br /> “How dare you threaten us?”<br /> With that, the chaos ensues. Now there are so many men blocking his way, and soon enough, women are clamoring to shoo him out of the pub too. I can see his expression. I know that he can take these men down if he wants to, but he’s restraining himself.<br /> The urge to step up and show myself before things get ugly overcomes me, but then Ruth wheels around and dunks my head down, preventing me from getting seen.<br /> “Why the hell are they looking for you?” Ruth demands. “Did you do something?”<br /> “No,” I begin to say, but that’s when I feel a strong hand dragging me back.<br /> “Ow!” I complain under my breath, feeling myself getting yanked back into the corner by this strong person. I turn around and see Max. He’s squeezing my arm so hard that I can almost feel the bruises appearing. “Let me go!”<br /> He just glares at me. “You are not going to show yourself to that upstart. You’re going to stay here behind the bar. Understand?”<br /> “No!” I snatch my arm back from him. “Do you want your people to get hurt?”<br /> His eyes flash with anger. “You’re really assuming we’re the ones who’d get hurt? You put too much faith in those men who don’t do anything but sit on their asses and command the lower people to fight for them.”<br /> I realize that he’s referring to the palace royals, including Achilles. His claims are so false that I square up to him, shoving him back. “You have no idea what you’re talking about! Those men risk their lives for us!”<br /> “Maybe for you,” Max growls dryly, “but never for me.”<br /> The next events happen so fast. So much so that I don’t even get the time to react. Max just grabs me by the shoulders, pushes me right into the broom closet, and props a chair against the doorknob to basically lock it from outside. I fall on the floor, flat on my behind, but then I spring up to my feet to try to ram it down.<br /> “Let me out!” I scream, but I doubt anyone would hear me from the absolute meltdown happening outside.<br /> I could shift into my wolf and break the door, but I think I would end up demolishing half the pub in the process. So even though I want to end this, I just stay by the door, pressing my ear against it and listening as best as I can.<br /> That’s when I hear Max announcing, “Silence, everyone. Let the man speak.”<br /> The people immediately shut up, which surprises me. It seems that everyone really recognizes him as their leader. I can almost picture him stepping up to Gamma Kiernan.<br /> “Thank you,” Gamma Kiernan says. “As I was trying to say before I got swarmed, I need Claudia Hale.”<br /> “Why?” Max asks in a calm, almost lazy tone.<br /> “Because the Alpha King says so,” Gamma Kiernan replies in a similar voice. “We don’t want any trouble with the King, do we?”<br /> “Oh, no, we don’t,” Max answers, but this time, he sounds perfectly sarcastic. I can hear the others around him letting out a laugh. “We really don’t. But you see, Claudia isn’t here.”<br /> Silence fills the air. I want to scream at the top of my lungs to alert everyone of my presence, but I’m stunned. Petrified, really. Did the Gamma really say that it’s Alpha Achilles who’s asking for me?<br /> But why? Why would he look for me? It hasn’t even been a day since I left. Does he regret all the things he did, all the things he said to me? Did he realize that I didn’t actually do anything wrong, and he punished me out of pure pride and possibly stupidity?<br /> Now that’s something I want to hear. I want him to say sorry.<br /> I’m about to scream when suddenly, I hear Gamma Kiernan saying, “I can smell her. Do not fucking lie to me.”<br /> Somehow, I’m able to sense something about to go wrong before it even transpires. I make a move to ram the door down before things can break out, but it’s too late.<br /> Before I can even do anything, I hear Max saying in a low voice, “Deal with this bastard.”<br /> And then, hell breaks loose.<br /> It’s so loud I can almost see it. The men in the pub all yell for battle and the sounds that follow root me to my spot. More screams. Thuds from bodies hitting the floor and the walls. Broken glass. Snapping wood. Arrows whizzing. Wolves howling. Gunshots. So many gunshots….<br /> Soon enough, the smell of blood fills the air, and my heart nearly stops.<br /> It seems to go on forever, the sound and the smell and the carnage. I can make out specific voices like Gamma Kiernan’s, telling his men to stand down and leave. I can hear Max telling his people to pursue them, to drive them back and make sure they learn their lesson. On and on and on it goes.<br /> But just when I think that it’s never going to end, silence follows.<br /> It’s almost eerie. One can hear a pin drop. Who got shot? Did anyone die?<br /> The thought of death because of me is what finally breaks me. I ram down the door without shifting into my wolf form, but when I arrive at the bar, it’s too late. I can hear the sound of horses whinnying outside, their hooves hitting the ground in loud thuds as they run fast. I see the flash of the red carriage through the broken windows.<br /> I look all over the floor to see if anyone has fallen, but aside from the smears of blood, it seems that everyone made it out alive.<br /> At least, from this party.<br /> I don’t know if I can say the same about the people from the palace.<br /> Suddenly, Max enters the pub, sporting a broken nose. He tears off a piece of his shirt and uses it to dab on the blood, but I march toward him and snatch it right out of his hand. “What did you do?”<br /> “Showed them that they have no business here,” he says simply, taking the strip of fabric back from me. “The only thing I should be hearing from you is thank you, unless…”<br /> Everyone in the pub looks at me.<br /> Ruth is the one who gets up and turns to me. “What did you do, Claudia? Why are they looking for you?”<br /> Max crosses his arms. "Give us a good reason why we shouldn't kick you out of here. Now." | Joylit Novel | 176 | https://facebook.com/61550512629703 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846797 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446611 | 1735168093 | 890 | 967078871711778 | 1 | 1.0939182285625E+15 | 1712300400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 118879321169142 | 0 | Popular Novels | 120209381872320155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | video | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712247847 | 1.1887932116914E+14 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432934698_1110824366822990_7068130820373047831_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ePOVSwyNAC4Q7kNvgH-QpfY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCvdGrmus47uvAUiynjQFrhljgisNaqORn0dUHHLcus3Q&oe=6663EA68 | person_profile | 0 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434725080_412091451551709_6634062048683338633_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GXw79YWcyW8Q7kNvgEBTu9J&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA5RHtQNh6slsKO1boMyBd_U6tBiP7CVRWomO3RSuVBww&oe=6663FA0D | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 6<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> I wake up with a gasp, sitting up abruptly like a marionette whose strings got yanked. My head starts to spin, but it’s not because there was no gentle introduction to the waking world.<br /> It’s because of the dream.<br /> Because of Claudia.<br /> I clutch my chest and feel that my heart is going haywire. My back is slick with sweat and I can almost feel it soaking my sheets. I close my eyes for a moment, gathering my thoughts, but the first thing I see in the darkness is Claudia’s face. Her voice is ringing in my ears, the first voice I have heard in so many years.<br /> She’s the Siren, the Moon Goddess said. The Alpha’s Voice.<br /> What does that mean? What does it have to do with me? What does that make her? I have more questions than answers and the frustration building up inside me is turning into anger. I don’t want that. I have to focus.<br /> Because if there is one thing I know, it’s that I fucked up by demanding her to leave.<br /> And I need to get her back.<br /> Fueled by the sudden fiery desire to chase after her and hold her down in the castle if I need to, I jump out of bed. I push open the door and startle the guards. I can see them mouthing, “What is the trouble, Alpha?”<br /> I ignore all of them. I just run along the hallway until I find Kiernan’s room. The guards step aside when they see me, so I push open the door, stumbling inside like a sweaty, clumsy ogre.<br /> Meanwhile, Kiernan is still awake, staring through the window. My heart sinks when I see that it’s already daylight outside, but I still have to try. I need to.<br /> Kiernan turns around, frowns at me, and asks, “Your Majesty. What brings you here?”<br /> He knows that it irks me when he calls me that, but I ignore it anyway. 'I need to find the maid, Claudia.'<br /> I thought he would ask why, but he just narrows his eyes. “The maid you kicked out last night? I found her in the freezing cold, just staring into the distance like she couldn’t believe what happened. I actually told her I would talk to you about it, but when I got to your room, you were already asleep.”<br /> His words hit me like arrows to the heart. I can almost picture Claudia standing where I left her, crying and wondering what she did wrong, all the while I was sleeping soundly with no care in the world….<br /> No. I can’t think about that. It hurts too much.<br /> I step back, the tightness in my chest so extreme that I have to inhale and exhale slowly. Every time I blink I see her distraught face and hear her broken voice, appealing her case and showing me that she deserved to stay.<br /> And what did I do? I kicked her right out like she meant nothing.<br /> Like we never had anything together.<br /> I swallow hard. ‘I need her back here. I made a mistake.’<br /> “Then let’s go to the maids’ quarters,” Kiernan offers. “Maybe she’s still there.”<br /> I nod, and together, we barge into the lower floor where the maids stay. The rooms are already empty as they start their day at dawn. Every empty room we pass makes me want to punch something in regret, but I can still catch the sweet scent of Claudia in the air, lingering like a whisper. Finally, we arrive at her room, where her scent is strongest. The door is still closed.<br /> Kiernan lifts his hand to knock, but I’m desperate. I open the door.<br /> And there is one person inside the room. But it’s not Claudia.<br /> It’s a maid I remember as Maia, her best friend here. She whips around as soon as we get in, and I immediately see her swollen eyes and red face.<br /> “Alpha,” she mutters, sinking into a bow. “Gamma. I will go to work as soon as possible.”<br /> “No, take the time you need,” Kiernan says. “You are obviously in distress. What happened?”<br /> My breath gets stuck in my throat. I already know what she’s going to say, but I find myself searching the room in hopes of finding any proof that Claudia actually chose to stay.<br /> However, the room is blissfully empty. Vacated for the next maid.<br /> “Claudia left, Gamma,” she answers. “She said she needed to go back to her family. It was just so unexpected. I asked her if it had something to do with the meeting, and she said no. She said she’s tired of working. I don’t believe that. She always loved working here….”<br /> I freeze in shock. Kiernan glances at me pointedly before turning back to Maia. “I completely understand. Please, take the day off and rest. The Alpha and I will get going now.”<br /> He grabs me by the arm and pulls me out of the room, closing the door behind us. I can’t even walk properly. I can’t believe what I just heard.<br /> After all the bad things I said to her, she still chose to cover for me.<br /> I stop moving as soon as we reach the foyer. I hold onto the stair banister for support, my throat closed up.<br /> Kiernan stands next to me. “What happened, Your Majesty?”<br /> ‘Don’t call me that,’ I sign to him. ‘Go prepare a carriage—no. A horse. Ready a horse for me. I will be setting out soon—’<br /> “No, you’re not,” he interjects, his eyebrows scrunched up. “You are the Alpha King. Do you know what it would mean to the Rogues if they took down the head of the whole land? The revolution would be over!”<br /> ‘Fine, I will do it myself.’ I try to push past him but he blocks me. ‘Move out of my way. I need Claudia back here right now.’<br /> He shakes his head, putting a firm hand on my chest. “You’d have to kill me if you want to leave alone.”<br /> Kiernan is one of my oldest friends and most loyal men. We’ve butted heads many times before, but not like this. I can see his quiet anger, and I know from the look in his eyes that he can feel mine. Still, he stands his ground, staring at me like he’s daring me to attack him right now.<br /> And I almost want to. The thought of Claudia getting farther and farther away is tearing my soul apart.<br /> But I take a deep breath to steady myself. ‘You don’t understand.’<br /> “Then make me understand.”<br /> ‘Claudia is important to me,’ I tell him after a pause. ‘The Moon Goddess told me so. She is the Siren and the Alpha’s Voice. I have to get her back or else—’<br /> “Alpha Achilles.”<br /> He signals me to turn around. I see Carlos standing by the end of the stairs, his torso still wrapped in bandages.<br /> However, he’s not alone. Standing next to him are the Housekeeper and the Chief Butler. Both of them are carrying files, laid out as though they’re asking for advice.<br /> ‘What is this?’ I signal to Carlos. ‘I don’t need any interruptions right now. I have somewhere else to go.’<br /> Carlos shakes his head to stop me. “Alpha… today is the Winter Solstice festival. Our pack is hosting. You cannot go anywhere.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 7<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> The journey from Sangria Amori to my hometown feels long and short at the same time. As I sit there in the carriage watching the palace disappear behind a mountain in the distance and begin to see the tall magnolia trees surrounding the famous springs of my home, I can’t help but feel a mixture of longing and relief.<br /> Longing because it’s been my home for years and years. I have made good memories and bonded with amazing people. I overcame a lot of bad things. I met the one I thought I would know forever.<br /> But the relief comes from the loss of all of that. From the knowledge that from now on, I would be free from that palace and everyone in it.<br /> Especially Achilles.<br /> My heart still makes a little flip at the simple thought of his name. I still have to clench my hands and pierce my own palms with my nails to remind myself that I shouldn’t be thinking about him. But thankfully, I don’t have to acknowledge it because the carriage finally stops. The coachman Peter calls out from the front, smacking the carriage door with his cane. “You’re here now, girl. It’s time to move out.”<br /> I gather all my bags and sling them all on my shoulders, slightly struggling with the weight as I climb down the rickety old carriage. “Thank you so much, Peter.”<br /> I give him a happy salute, about to head to the arch that reads Nightshade Springs. But then, I hear him calling out, “Are you sure you’re going to be safe from here on?”<br /> That makes me pause. So far, throughout the whole journey, I haven’t sensed any Rogues at all. But Peter has a point. The infestation of Rogues is very much real and rampant, and I haven’t been to my hometown in five years. I honestly don’t know what’s waiting in store for me here.<br /> But still, I don’t want to bother him. If there is any danger out here, I would rather face it; I know that he has a family.<br /> So I just smile at him. “I got it, Peter. Thank you again and be careful on your way back!”<br /> He looks uncertain, but he leaves anyway, whipping the horses until they gallop faster. Soon enough, he’s gone.<br /> And I’m alone in the middle of the woods, surrounded by the familiar fresh scent of springs and pine.<br /> The scent of home.<br /> A soft smile appears on my face as I start to walk, following the stone path that leads to the edge of the village where the cemetery is.<br /> I suppose it’s a grim thing to start with, but I’ve been meaning to visit my parents’ graves for the past years. Grief and the start of the revolution put a halt to all of that, so now I feel quite happy that I get to see them, even if it’s just this way.<br /> My mom was a maid like I am. Or was. Either way, she served the palace too, specifically as a handmaiden to the former Queen. My dad was a gardener. She died from deadly flu five years ago, and he followed right after.<br /> Back then, I thought this was unfair. How could they leave me in this world alone? I was resentful. But eventually, I realized that it may have been out of love. He was never able to be apart from her for any period of time, and not even death could stop him from chasing after her.<br /> They told me that they met each other at a gathering for servants, and my father fell in love with my mother when he first heard her sing. I honestly can’t blame him. She had the most wonderful voice, and he always said that I had that beautiful voice too. I never really knew if he was just making that up, but the ones who heard me sing also told me that I do have a pretty voice.<br /> The memory brings a smile to my face, and as I approach their graves, I find myself humming along to the tune of my mother’s lullaby.<br /> Their graves are now covered in ivy. I sweep some of the leaves away and light a candle for them.<br /> I sit there for a while, watching the light flicker on their gravestones. I reach out and feel the warmth, opening my mouth to talk to them like I always did, but that’s when something strikes me.<br /> The sour, rotten smell.<br /> My entire body freezes. I shoot to my feet, clutching my bags closer to me as I look around. My heart is beating in my ears and I almost want to whimper, but it only gets worse when I finally see a single Rogue.<br /> It’s hiding behind gravestones in the distance, its eyes gleaming with hunger and malice as they focus on me. Its low growls make the ground hum. There’s tension in the air, thick and suffocating, telling me it’s been stalking me like prey for a while now. It’s still far but ready to spring. Ready to chase and feed.<br /> And I know that if I take one step back, it will come out and kill me.<br /> I slowly exhale, stepping back and feeling it move with me, keeping the distance between us the same.<br /> Bit by bit, I ease my bags off my shoulders and set them down. The eyes of the Rogue follow my movement like two laser pointers. I slip my hand in my pocket, looking for the silver knife that Maia gave me as a parting gift, ready to it down.<br /> As though on cue, the Rogue leaps into the air as soon as I raise the knife.<br /> But I’m ready this time. I don’t come to meet it. Instead, I stand my ground, waiting for the perfect moment. As soon as it flies midair to pounce on me, I duck right under it and run the knife along its throat.<br /> The Rogue falls to the ground with a whimper. It scrambles to get upright again, but before it can do so, I stomp its fragile head flat with my boot, its blood spattering everywhere.<br /> “Thank the gods,” I mutter, but that’s when I realize that I spoke too soon.<br /> As soon as the Rogue stops moving, the forest seems to come alive right before me. More Rogues emerge from the trees, sniffing and snarling, their eyes alight with joy when they see a perfectly good meal severely outnumbered.<br /> All at once, they jump toward me.<br /> A scream breaks out of my lips. I raise my bags to shield myself, but at this point, it’s only a matter of time before they take me down and feast on me. I’m only waiting for the pain now….<br /> But before it can come, I hear loud bangs in the distance. Gunshots. Followed by the loud thuds of the Rogues hitting the ground, dropping like dead flies.<br /> I lower my bags in horror. All the Rogues are dead, their heads bleeding from a single smoking puncture wound between their eyes. I’m about to turn around to see my savior, but then I feel the still-hot muzzle of the gun against my back.<br /> “Drop your knife if you want to live. Who are you and what do you need?”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 8<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The first thing that rises out of me is not frustration from being told what to do, but embarrassment from forgetting about the big event. I know that Carlos just had a bad injury that he’s still most likely dealing with, but I have a situation on my hands that I just can’t shake off, but I can't help but avert my gaze in shame.<br /> Carlos, Kiernan, and the two head staff are staring at me expectantly, and I just want to sink into the ground and never reappear.<br /> I look over at Kiernan, who gives me a small shrug like he’s telling me that it’s all up to me.<br /> The obvious thing to do is to just delay the festival and focus on the very important task of finding Claudia. But I know that my people are counting on this one single happy day among all the bad ones. They need this. And as much as I need Claudia here with me, they come first.<br /> I take a deep, steadying breath. ‘I apologize. It must have slipped my mind. Prepare the decorations and we shall have a lunch banquet in the throne room.’<br /> Carlos nods and repeats my words to the head staff. Then, he turns back to me and asks, “How about the evening celebrations?”<br /> ‘We’ll see,’ I sign to him.<br /> With that, the head staff both bow and leave. Now it’s only the three of us, and they look pained.<br /> “So what’s been happening?” Carlos splutters at last. “Where are you going?”<br /> Kiernan is the one who answers for him. “He kicked out the maid, Claudia, and now he has to bring her back because the Moon Goddess told him so in a dream. He wants to go out there himself.”<br /> ‘I have to,’ I tell them both. 'I still do, but with the festival..."<br /> And of course, they just look at me like they feel sorry for me. I’m about to tell them both to supervise so I can go, but then Kiernan sighs and says, “I’ll get some of our warriors, and we will go and find her.”<br /> Without giving me a chance to say anything about this, Kiernan leaves. Carlos then looks at me and beckons me to go up the stairs.<br /> “After you, Alpha. Let’s give the people a good celebration.”<br /> * * *<br /> When I arrive at the throne room after changing into my formal suit, it is already decked with blue and silver decorations fit for the winter solstice theme. Food is flowing in, music is playing, and it seems that all the citizens are gathering.<br /> When Carlos and I enter, it takes me a whole while to notice that the throne room isn’t even halfway filled. As I sit on my throne, I see that my people are not eating, drinking, or having fun at all. They are just gathered at the little tables, engaged in serious conversation.<br /> More people are coming in, greeted by the butlers by the door. I keep thinking that this new batch will come and let loose, but they just gather like the rest of the guests.<br /> It’s starting to make me nervous. I agreed to this party thinking it would be best for their morale, but it seems that they’re just as uninterested in the occasion as I was.<br /> ‘This is not going well,’ I tell Carlos, who’s standing on my right side. He’s not fully recovered yet, but he insisted on coming here. ‘It would be best to cut this short.’<br /> As soon as I say those words, guilt starts to drum in my chest. I know that I should try to make things more festive instead of thinking about Claudia, but not knowing how things are on that front is almost as bad as being here and seeing my people feeling blue.<br /> “I think it would be best if you go down and communicate with them personally,” Carlos says, and I can’t believe I never thought of that before.<br /> I get up from my throne with the full intent of going around, but then I see a familiar face by the door. Someone I really don’t want to see.<br /> Alpha Tristan.<br /> He’s still wearing a coat, speckled with snow. The butler tries to take it from him but he pushes him away, which makes me tense up, immediately ready for a fight. However, he’s not alone. Walking behind him like lapdogs are the Alphas of his neighboring packs: Giorgio, Anthony, and Larkin.<br /> Their auras are so domineering and so distracting that the people in the throne room stop what they’re doing and just watch them approach me. But instead of meeting them halfway, I remain standing in front of the throne with the steps of the dais separating us.<br /> None of them bows down to me.<br /> “What are you doing here?” Carlos asks, and it perfectly reflects what’s in my mind, just more polite.<br /> Tristan flashes me a smirk. “We’re here because we’re tired of the preposterous games that Sangria Amori is playing. We need change!”<br /> Even though I can’t hear him, I can feel the vibrations of his scream on the walls and the floor. He’s livid, and because of this, the people in the room are tuning in.<br /> I don’t like the admiring and interested looks on their faces. I look at Carlos. ‘We shouldn’t have this talk here.’<br /> “Alpha Tristan.” Carlos gives him a strained smile, motioning him to come along. “We shall move this conversation to a more private location and perhaps—”<br /> “Get your hands off me.” Tristan pushes past him and squares up to me. “What you’re doing to these people is sickening. Making them show up here, forced to have fun, when they are suffering from problems you would never know about from your high throne. You’re making a mockery of their situation, flaunting your privilege in their faces.”<br /> I want to push him down the steps and pound his face into a pulp, but I restrain myself. Instead, I just sign something that Carlos translates with perfect contempt.<br /> “Get out, right now.”<br /> Tristan only scoffs, facing the people. “Last night, instead of meeting with the rest of the Alphas and coming up with a way to erase the Rogues, Alpha King Achilles was late. He left us on our own when we had a Rogue attack. It’s painfully obvious that his disabilities have made him selfish, and unfit to rule our land.”<br /> This time, my temper gets the best of me. I grab him by the arm with the full intent of punching him in the face as soon as he turns, but I stop when the people gasp.<br /> They’re now looking at me in horror.<br /> I slowly let him go. He starts to walk away, step by step, not taking his eyes off me. There’s a certain gleam in his eyes that I can’t identify, but the hairs on the back of my neck are standing on end.<br /> Only when he’s standing by the door do I know why.<br /> “We will no longer take orders from the Alpha King,” Tristan declares, his gaze still on me. “We will handle the Rogues our way, the right way. And those who want to join us would be offered full protection.”<br /> With that, he leaves.<br /> And I watch in horror as some of my citizens begin to get up from their seats, following him out.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 9<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> “Don’t shoot me,” I mutter, and I cringe when I hear the fear in my voice. I hate that I faced that single Rogue like a boss only to fold like this. “I’m not a danger to anyone. I’m a local here. I just moved for work at the palace…”<br /> I stop when I realize I’m about to ramble. I just drop the knife. As soon as it clatters on the floor, I feel the muzzle of the gun easing off my back. I take this as a cue to turn around, and I come face to face with a young man about my age, with straw-colored hair and brown eyes. He’s carrying a massive silver shotgun with rounds of big silver bullets around his body.<br /> He’s studying me closely, fixing his flannel shirt. “Who are you?”<br /> “Claudia Hale,” I say shakily. I even bow, which is dumb, but I guess it’s not so stupid if it stops him from shooting me. “I just came here to visit my parents.”<br /> At first, he doesn’t say anything. My nerves are starting to act up and I find myself basically skipping in my spot. But finally, he asks, “Hale, huh? Do you happen to be related to Ruth?”<br /> My eyes go wide. “Yes! Ruth is my cousin.”<br /> The man’s shoulders relax. He cracks a smile, and suddenly he doesn’t seem so scary anymore. “You must be the cousin she talks about a lot. The singer. I’m Max, by the way. Follow me.”<br /> We shake hands, and I can’t help but feel giddy.<br /> My cousin Ruth is here. I can’t believe it. We were very close as kids, even though we only saw each other over the summers. She left Nightshade Springs when we were both eighteen, and the last thing I heard about her was that she got married to a mason from the nearby village. We saw each other at my dad’s funeral, but we didn’t get to talk much because of my own grief.<br /> But now, I’m going to see her. I wonder if she has kids now.<br /> The thought of little babies running around makes me so excited, so much so that I almost forget to follow Max as he leads me out of the cemetery through an unfamiliar path. I quickly pick up the knife and run after him.<br /> I frown as I pull level with Max. "Why are we using this path?"<br /> The moment the question leaves my lips, the answer comes to me when we turn a corner.<br /> For the first time, I come face to face with the aftermath of the Rogue infestation.<br /> The village is now completely deserted. The houses are dilapidated, empty and broken. The smell of Rogues is present, but distant, which tells me that the place is visited frequently but they're not actually here. Dried blood is scattered all over the ground like paint.<br /> "That's animal blood," Max explains, following the direction of my gaze. "We vacated this place a long time ago. We still live in this area, but we decided to stick close together to protect ourselves from the Rogues. We figured that it would be best if we show them a strong front. The Kingdom doesn't really do much for us, so we have to take matters into our own hands."<br /> I swallow hard, averting my gaze as we turn another corner, a hidden path behind a small hill.<br /> "Does the Kingdom not visit the villages at all?" I ask.<br /> Max shakes his head. "Nope. Not at all. They send guards from time to time, but you see how many Rogues there are. You know how violent they can be. We needed weapons to protect ourselves, but they just won't provide that. I think they keep it to themselves, leave everyone else defenseless."<br /> I keep quiet. I don't know what to say. Part of me wants to defend the palace. I mean, I know they have it hard, and Achilles is doing his best. But then again, who am I to dismiss their suffering?<br /> I open my mouth to ask where they got their weapons, but then we arrive at a fenced part of the village. Barbed wires are set on tall metal walls, behind which small compact buildings stand proud.<br /> He opens the gate carefully, and we both enter. There are a couple of villages standing watch, carrying guns similar to his. They stare at me, and I have to lower my head to avoid the intensity of their looks.<br /> I want to tell Max that I just want to see Ruth, but before I can get the question out, I see two people running towards me.<br /> I look up and my heart nearly gives out when I see that it's Ruth, together with a tall bearded man who must be her husband.<br /> "Claudia!" she squeals, and before I can even drop my bags, she scoops me up into a big hug. "You're home! It's been so long!"<br /> I blink the tears away when she lets me go. "I figured it was time to retire and just stay here."<br /> I feel guilty. I lied to Maia and now I'm lying to Ruth.<br /> “You loved that job, but I do understand,” she says, and I can’t help but be thankful that she didn’t press me for more details. “This is my husband, Henry. We live in one of the apartments. You can stay with us if you like, but I think it would be best if you get your own room.”<br /> “It’s nice to meet you,” Henry says, taking my bags from me. “I will take these up to your room.”<br /> I smile. “Thank you so much.”<br /> He and Max leave, and Ruth takes my arm, steering me into a small structure at the foot of one of the buildings. I can hear cheers and smell food from outside, and I find myself relaxing when I see that it’s a pub. Men and women alike are laughing and talking, downing jugs of beer and eating fried food. It’s quite fascinating to see so much life and joy in a single space in this lost land, but I can’t help but feel grateful.<br /> Ruth and I sit on the counter. The bartender slides two jugs of beer and a platter of steaming chips. I grab the chips even though they’re hot, stuffing them all in my mouth and drinking the beer. Everything is strangely fresh, and I can’t help but gobble it all up. Ruth watches me with amusement as she sips her drink.<br /> “Do they not feed you up there?” she jokes, shaking her head. “Honestly, I don’t blame you for going home. It must have been hell there.”<br /> My appetite suddenly vanishes. “Well, it’s not so bad. But nothing like home, yes.” I clear my throat, desperate for a change of topic. “So, Max found me in the cemetery. He’s… an interesting character.”<br /> “I know, he mind-linked it to me.” She shrugs. “Max is kind of an asshole, but I get why. He had to step up as our leader when the palace guards left us. He looted all those guns that we use now, so the only thing we have to forge are bullets. Screw the Kingdom and that deaf-mute idiot who rules it.”<br /> My face goes hot. I want to defend Achilles. I want to tell Ruth not to call him that, but then again, he kicked me out for defending him.<br /> “Is everyone doing the same?” I start to ask, but then a small commotion breaks out in the corner of the pub where the entrance is.<br /> “Hey, keep that bastard out!” I hear some of the men yelling.<br /> “He barged right in and demanded entry!”<br /> “It’s one of those palace fuckers!”<br /> I freeze. Ruth and I both slide out of our stools, looking over at the chaos.<br /> My heart jumps right into my throat when I see Gamma Kiernan trying to force his way inside the pub.<br /> “Bring me Claudia Hale, and we will not have any problems.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 10<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Panic takes a hold of me. Suddenly, I feel my entire body going numb. I can feel Ruth beside me and I can hear her saying something, but it’s like my mind is tuning out. All I can hear are muffled voices. All I can feel is my heart hammering inside my ribs like it wants to get out.<br /> I blink a couple of times as we get pushed back by the ongoing commotion. For a moment I’m certain that I’m not seeing things correctly, but I’m wrong.<br /> Gamma Kiernan is really here, and he’s looking for me.<br /> “No way you’re getting in,” the men at the entrance keep telling him. “Pack it up and leave!”<br /> “I will not leave until you bring Claudia Hale here,” he insists. “I can smell her scent in the air. I know you’re hiding her. Back off, and no one gets hurt.”<br /> “How dare you threaten us?”<br /> With that, the chaos ensues. Now there are so many men blocking his way, and soon enough, women are clamoring to shoo him out of the pub too. I can see his expression. I know that he can take these men down if he wants to, but he’s restraining himself.<br /> The urge to step up and show myself before things get ugly overcomes me, but then Ruth wheels around and dunks my head down, preventing me from getting seen.<br /> “Why the hell are they looking for you?” Ruth demands. “Did you do something?”<br /> “No,” I begin to say, but that’s when I feel a strong hand dragging me back.<br /> “Ow!” I complain under my breath, feeling myself getting yanked back into the corner by this strong person. I turn around and see Max. He’s squeezing my arm so hard that I can almost feel the bruises appearing. “Let me go!”<br /> He just glares at me. “You are not going to show yourself to that upstart. You’re going to stay here behind the bar. Understand?”<br /> “No!” I snatch my arm back from him. “Do you want your people to get hurt?”<br /> His eyes flash with anger. “You’re really assuming we’re the ones who’d get hurt? You put too much faith in those men who don’t do anything but sit on their asses and command the lower people to fight for them.”<br /> I realize that he’s referring to the palace royals, including Achilles. His claims are so false that I square up to him, shoving him back. “You have no idea what you’re talking about! Those men risk their lives for us!”<br /> “Maybe for you,” Max growls dryly, “but never for me.”<br /> The next events happen so fast. So much so that I don’t even get the time to react. Max just grabs me by the shoulders, pushes me right into the broom closet, and props a chair against the doorknob to basically lock it from outside. I fall on the floor, flat on my behind, but then I spring up to my feet to try to ram it down.<br /> “Let me out!” I scream, but I doubt anyone would hear me from the absolute meltdown happening outside.<br /> I could shift into my wolf and break the door, but I think I would end up demolishing half the pub in the process. So even though I want to end this, I just stay by the door, pressing my ear against it and listening as best as I can.<br /> That’s when I hear Max announcing, “Silence, everyone. Let the man speak.”<br /> The people immediately shut up, which surprises me. It seems that everyone really recognizes him as their leader. I can almost picture him stepping up to Gamma Kiernan.<br /> “Thank you,” Gamma Kiernan says. “As I was trying to say before I got swarmed, I need Claudia Hale.”<br /> “Why?” Max asks in a calm, almost lazy tone.<br /> “Because the Alpha King says so,” Gamma Kiernan replies in a similar voice. “We don’t want any trouble with the King, do we?”<br /> “Oh, no, we don’t,” Max answers, but this time, he sounds perfectly sarcastic. I can hear the others around him letting out a laugh. “We really don’t. But you see, Claudia isn’t here.”<br /> Silence fills the air. I want to scream at the top of my lungs to alert everyone of my presence, but I’m stunned. Petrified, really. Did the Gamma really say that it’s Alpha Achilles who’s asking for me?<br /> But why? Why would he look for me? It hasn’t even been a day since I left. Does he regret all the things he did, all the things he said to me? Did he realize that I didn’t actually do anything wrong, and he punished me out of pure pride and possibly stupidity?<br /> Now that’s something I want to hear. I want him to say sorry.<br /> I’m about to scream when suddenly, I hear Gamma Kiernan saying, “I can smell her. Do not fucking lie to me.”<br /> Somehow, I’m able to sense something about to go wrong before it even transpires. I make a move to ram the door down before things can break out, but it’s too late.<br /> Before I can even do anything, I hear Max saying in a low voice, “Deal with this bastard.”<br /> And then, hell breaks loose.<br /> It’s so loud I can almost see it. The men in the pub all yell for battle and the sounds that follow root me to my spot. More screams. Thuds from bodies hitting the floor and the walls. Broken glass. Snapping wood. Arrows whizzing. Wolves howling. Gunshots. So many gunshots….<br /> Soon enough, the smell of blood fills the air, and my heart nearly stops.<br /> It seems to go on forever, the sound and the smell and the carnage. I can make out specific voices like Gamma Kiernan’s, telling his men to stand down and leave. I can hear Max telling his people to pursue them, to drive them back and make sure they learn their lesson. On and on and on it goes.<br /> But just when I think that it’s never going to end, silence follows.<br /> It’s almost eerie. One can hear a pin drop. Who got shot? Did anyone die?<br /> The thought of death because of me is what finally breaks me. I ram down the door without shifting into my wolf form, but when I arrive at the bar, it’s too late. I can hear the sound of horses whinnying outside, their hooves hitting the ground in loud thuds as they run fast. I see the flash of the red carriage through the broken windows.<br /> I look all over the floor to see if anyone has fallen, but aside from the smears of blood, it seems that everyone made it out alive.<br /> At least, from this party.<br /> I don’t know if I can say the same about the people from the palace.<br /> Suddenly, Max enters the pub, sporting a broken nose. He tears off a piece of his shirt and uses it to dab on the blood, but I march toward him and snatch it right out of his hand. “What did you do?”<br /> “Showed them that they have no business here,” he says simply, taking the strip of fabric back from me. “The only thing I should be hearing from you is thank you, unless…”<br /> Everyone in the pub looks at me.<br /> Ruth is the one who gets up and turns to me. “What did you do, Claudia? Why are they looking for you?”<br /> Max crosses his arms. "Give us a good reason why we shouldn't kick you out of here. Now." | Popular Novels | 15 | https://facebook.com/100091852266052 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846798 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446611 | 1735168093 | 890 | 1548134302400123 | 1 | 9.1787296981223E+14 | 1712300400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 118879321169142 | 0 | Popular Novels | 120209381871740155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | video | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712247851 | 1.1887932116914E+14 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433947232_783689993825900_4359386558660951353_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ccXvKMwEJa0Q7kNvgFBQcUq&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBltH_5J90PjG1gZJx4me2M0MrZe0pc2mo6HX9OSrklog&oe=666411D4 | person_profile | 0 | Popular Novels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434024289_1484195795500910_4044385771164008805_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Vf8OtJohM1kQ7kNvgHQmmuV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBVlURjwCiJyPd698WlI8wD33e6iOUgKYpt4UOFEgSS2Q&oe=6663F58F | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 6<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> I wake up with a gasp, sitting up abruptly like a marionette whose strings got yanked. My head starts to spin, but it’s not because there was no gentle introduction to the waking world.<br /> It’s because of the dream.<br /> Because of Claudia.<br /> I clutch my chest and feel that my heart is going haywire. My back is slick with sweat and I can almost feel it soaking my sheets. I close my eyes for a moment, gathering my thoughts, but the first thing I see in the darkness is Claudia’s face. Her voice is ringing in my ears, the first voice I have heard in so many years.<br /> She’s the Siren, the Moon Goddess said. The Alpha’s Voice.<br /> What does that mean? What does it have to do with me? What does that make her? I have more questions than answers and the frustration building up inside me is turning into anger. I don’t want that. I have to focus.<br /> Because if there is one thing I know, it’s that I fucked up by demanding her to leave.<br /> And I need to get her back.<br /> Fueled by the sudden fiery desire to chase after her and hold her down in the castle if I need to, I jump out of bed. I push open the door and startle the guards. I can see them mouthing, “What is the trouble, Alpha?”<br /> I ignore all of them. I just run along the hallway until I find Kiernan’s room. The guards step aside when they see me, so I push open the door, stumbling inside like a sweaty, clumsy ogre.<br /> Meanwhile, Kiernan is still awake, staring through the window. My heart sinks when I see that it’s already daylight outside, but I still have to try. I need to.<br /> Kiernan turns around, frowns at me, and asks, “Your Majesty. What brings you here?”<br /> He knows that it irks me when he calls me that, but I ignore it anyway. 'I need to find the maid, Claudia.'<br /> I thought he would ask why, but he just narrows his eyes. “The maid you kicked out last night? I found her in the freezing cold, just staring into the distance like she couldn’t believe what happened. I actually told her I would talk to you about it, but when I got to your room, you were already asleep.”<br /> His words hit me like arrows to the heart. I can almost picture Claudia standing where I left her, crying and wondering what she did wrong, all the while I was sleeping soundly with no care in the world….<br /> No. I can’t think about that. It hurts too much.<br /> I step back, the tightness in my chest so extreme that I have to inhale and exhale slowly. Every time I blink I see her distraught face and hear her broken voice, appealing her case and showing me that she deserved to stay.<br /> And what did I do? I kicked her right out like she meant nothing.<br /> Like we never had anything together.<br /> I swallow hard. ‘I need her back here. I made a mistake.’<br /> “Then let’s go to the maids’ quarters,” Kiernan offers. “Maybe she’s still there.”<br /> I nod, and together, we barge into the lower floor where the maids stay. The rooms are already empty as they start their day at dawn. Every empty room we pass makes me want to punch something in regret, but I can still catch the sweet scent of Claudia in the air, lingering like a whisper. Finally, we arrive at her room, where her scent is strongest. The door is still closed.<br /> Kiernan lifts his hand to knock, but I’m desperate. I open the door.<br /> And there is one person inside the room. But it’s not Claudia.<br /> It’s a maid I remember as Maia, her best friend here. She whips around as soon as we get in, and I immediately see her swollen eyes and red face.<br /> “Alpha,” she mutters, sinking into a bow. “Gamma. I will go to work as soon as possible.”<br /> “No, take the time you need,” Kiernan says. “You are obviously in distress. What happened?”<br /> My breath gets stuck in my throat. I already know what she’s going to say, but I find myself searching the room in hopes of finding any proof that Claudia actually chose to stay.<br /> However, the room is blissfully empty. Vacated for the next maid.<br /> “Claudia left, Gamma,” she answers. “She said she needed to go back to her family. It was just so unexpected. I asked her if it had something to do with the meeting, and she said no. She said she’s tired of working. I don’t believe that. She always loved working here….”<br /> I freeze in shock. Kiernan glances at me pointedly before turning back to Maia. “I completely understand. Please, take the day off and rest. The Alpha and I will get going now.”<br /> He grabs me by the arm and pulls me out of the room, closing the door behind us. I can’t even walk properly. I can’t believe what I just heard.<br /> After all the bad things I said to her, she still chose to cover for me.<br /> I stop moving as soon as we reach the foyer. I hold onto the stair banister for support, my throat closed up.<br /> Kiernan stands next to me. “What happened, Your Majesty?”<br /> ‘Don’t call me that,’ I sign to him. ‘Go prepare a carriage—no. A horse. Ready a horse for me. I will be setting out soon—’<br /> “No, you’re not,” he interjects, his eyebrows scrunched up. “You are the Alpha King. Do you know what it would mean to the Rogues if they took down the head of the whole land? The revolution would be over!”<br /> ‘Fine, I will do it myself.’ I try to push past him but he blocks me. ‘Move out of my way. I need Claudia back here right now.’<br /> He shakes his head, putting a firm hand on my chest. “You’d have to kill me if you want to leave alone.”<br /> Kiernan is one of my oldest friends and most loyal men. We’ve butted heads many times before, but not like this. I can see his quiet anger, and I know from the look in his eyes that he can feel mine. Still, he stands his ground, staring at me like he’s daring me to attack him right now.<br /> And I almost want to. The thought of Claudia getting farther and farther away is tearing my soul apart.<br /> But I take a deep breath to steady myself. ‘You don’t understand.’<br /> “Then make me understand.”<br /> ‘Claudia is important to me,’ I tell him after a pause. ‘The Moon Goddess told me so. She is the Siren and the Alpha’s Voice. I have to get her back or else—’<br /> “Alpha Achilles.”<br /> He signals me to turn around. I see Carlos standing by the end of the stairs, his torso still wrapped in bandages.<br /> However, he’s not alone. Standing next to him are the Housekeeper and the Chief Butler. Both of them are carrying files, laid out as though they’re asking for advice.<br /> ‘What is this?’ I signal to Carlos. ‘I don’t need any interruptions right now. I have somewhere else to go.’<br /> Carlos shakes his head to stop me. “Alpha… today is the Winter Solstice festival. Our pack is hosting. You cannot go anywhere.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 7<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> The journey from Sangria Amori to my hometown feels long and short at the same time. As I sit there in the carriage watching the palace disappear behind a mountain in the distance and begin to see the tall magnolia trees surrounding the famous springs of my home, I can’t help but feel a mixture of longing and relief.<br /> Longing because it’s been my home for years and years. I have made good memories and bonded with amazing people. I overcame a lot of bad things. I met the one I thought I would know forever.<br /> But the relief comes from the loss of all of that. From the knowledge that from now on, I would be free from that palace and everyone in it.<br /> Especially Achilles.<br /> My heart still makes a little flip at the simple thought of his name. I still have to clench my hands and pierce my own palms with my nails to remind myself that I shouldn’t be thinking about him. But thankfully, I don’t have to acknowledge it because the carriage finally stops. The coachman Peter calls out from the front, smacking the carriage door with his cane. “You’re here now, girl. It’s time to move out.”<br /> I gather all my bags and sling them all on my shoulders, slightly struggling with the weight as I climb down the rickety old carriage. “Thank you so much, Peter.”<br /> I give him a happy salute, about to head to the arch that reads Nightshade Springs. But then, I hear him calling out, “Are you sure you’re going to be safe from here on?”<br /> That makes me pause. So far, throughout the whole journey, I haven’t sensed any Rogues at all. But Peter has a point. The infestation of Rogues is very much real and rampant, and I haven’t been to my hometown in five years. I honestly don’t know what’s waiting in store for me here.<br /> But still, I don’t want to bother him. If there is any danger out here, I would rather face it; I know that he has a family.<br /> So I just smile at him. “I got it, Peter. Thank you again and be careful on your way back!”<br /> He looks uncertain, but he leaves anyway, whipping the horses until they gallop faster. Soon enough, he’s gone.<br /> And I’m alone in the middle of the woods, surrounded by the familiar fresh scent of springs and pine.<br /> The scent of home.<br /> A soft smile appears on my face as I start to walk, following the stone path that leads to the edge of the village where the cemetery is.<br /> I suppose it’s a grim thing to start with, but I’ve been meaning to visit my parents’ graves for the past years. Grief and the start of the revolution put a halt to all of that, so now I feel quite happy that I get to see them, even if it’s just this way.<br /> My mom was a maid like I am. Or was. Either way, she served the palace too, specifically as a handmaiden to the former Queen. My dad was a gardener. She died from deadly flu five years ago, and he followed right after.<br /> Back then, I thought this was unfair. How could they leave me in this world alone? I was resentful. But eventually, I realized that it may have been out of love. He was never able to be apart from her for any period of time, and not even death could stop him from chasing after her.<br /> They told me that they met each other at a gathering for servants, and my father fell in love with my mother when he first heard her sing. I honestly can’t blame him. She had the most wonderful voice, and he always said that I had that beautiful voice too. I never really knew if he was just making that up, but the ones who heard me sing also told me that I do have a pretty voice.<br /> The memory brings a smile to my face, and as I approach their graves, I find myself humming along to the tune of my mother’s lullaby.<br /> Their graves are now covered in ivy. I sweep some of the leaves away and light a candle for them.<br /> I sit there for a while, watching the light flicker on their gravestones. I reach out and feel the warmth, opening my mouth to talk to them like I always did, but that’s when something strikes me.<br /> The sour, rotten smell.<br /> My entire body freezes. I shoot to my feet, clutching my bags closer to me as I look around. My heart is beating in my ears and I almost want to whimper, but it only gets worse when I finally see a single Rogue.<br /> It’s hiding behind gravestones in the distance, its eyes gleaming with hunger and malice as they focus on me. Its low growls make the ground hum. There’s tension in the air, thick and suffocating, telling me it’s been stalking me like prey for a while now. It’s still far but ready to spring. Ready to chase and feed.<br /> And I know that if I take one step back, it will come out and kill me.<br /> I slowly exhale, stepping back and feeling it move with me, keeping the distance between us the same.<br /> Bit by bit, I ease my bags off my shoulders and set them down. The eyes of the Rogue follow my movement like two laser pointers. I slip my hand in my pocket, looking for the silver knife that Maia gave me as a parting gift, ready to it down.<br /> As though on cue, the Rogue leaps into the air as soon as I raise the knife.<br /> But I’m ready this time. I don’t come to meet it. Instead, I stand my ground, waiting for the perfect moment. As soon as it flies midair to pounce on me, I duck right under it and run the knife along its throat.<br /> The Rogue falls to the ground with a whimper. It scrambles to get upright again, but before it can do so, I stomp its fragile head flat with my boot, its blood spattering everywhere.<br /> “Thank the gods,” I mutter, but that’s when I realize that I spoke too soon.<br /> As soon as the Rogue stops moving, the forest seems to come alive right before me. More Rogues emerge from the trees, sniffing and snarling, their eyes alight with joy when they see a perfectly good meal severely outnumbered.<br /> All at once, they jump toward me.<br /> A scream breaks out of my lips. I raise my bags to shield myself, but at this point, it’s only a matter of time before they take me down and feast on me. I’m only waiting for the pain now….<br /> But before it can come, I hear loud bangs in the distance. Gunshots. Followed by the loud thuds of the Rogues hitting the ground, dropping like dead flies.<br /> I lower my bags in horror. All the Rogues are dead, their heads bleeding from a single smoking puncture wound between their eyes. I’m about to turn around to see my savior, but then I feel the still-hot muzzle of the gun against my back.<br /> “Drop your knife if you want to live. Who are you and what do you need?”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 8<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The first thing that rises out of me is not frustration from being told what to do, but embarrassment from forgetting about the big event. I know that Carlos just had a bad injury that he’s still most likely dealing with, but I have a situation on my hands that I just can’t shake off, but I can't help but avert my gaze in shame.<br /> Carlos, Kiernan, and the two head staff are staring at me expectantly, and I just want to sink into the ground and never reappear.<br /> I look over at Kiernan, who gives me a small shrug like he’s telling me that it’s all up to me.<br /> The obvious thing to do is to just delay the festival and focus on the very important task of finding Claudia. But I know that my people are counting on this one single happy day among all the bad ones. They need this. And as much as I need Claudia here with me, they come first.<br /> I take a deep, steadying breath. ‘I apologize. It must have slipped my mind. Prepare the decorations and we shall have a lunch banquet in the throne room.’<br /> Carlos nods and repeats my words to the head staff. Then, he turns back to me and asks, “How about the evening celebrations?”<br /> ‘We’ll see,’ I sign to him.<br /> With that, the head staff both bow and leave. Now it’s only the three of us, and they look pained.<br /> “So what’s been happening?” Carlos splutters at last. “Where are you going?”<br /> Kiernan is the one who answers for him. “He kicked out the maid, Claudia, and now he has to bring her back because the Moon Goddess told him so in a dream. He wants to go out there himself.”<br /> ‘I have to,’ I tell them both. 'I still do, but with the festival..."<br /> And of course, they just look at me like they feel sorry for me. I’m about to tell them both to supervise so I can go, but then Kiernan sighs and says, “I’ll get some of our warriors, and we will go and find her.”<br /> Without giving me a chance to say anything about this, Kiernan leaves. Carlos then looks at me and beckons me to go up the stairs.<br /> “After you, Alpha. Let’s give the people a good celebration.”<br /> * * *<br /> When I arrive at the throne room after changing into my formal suit, it is already decked with blue and silver decorations fit for the winter solstice theme. Food is flowing in, music is playing, and it seems that all the citizens are gathering.<br /> When Carlos and I enter, it takes me a whole while to notice that the throne room isn’t even halfway filled. As I sit on my throne, I see that my people are not eating, drinking, or having fun at all. They are just gathered at the little tables, engaged in serious conversation.<br /> More people are coming in, greeted by the butlers by the door. I keep thinking that this new batch will come and let loose, but they just gather like the rest of the guests.<br /> It’s starting to make me nervous. I agreed to this party thinking it would be best for their morale, but it seems that they’re just as uninterested in the occasion as I was.<br /> ‘This is not going well,’ I tell Carlos, who’s standing on my right side. He’s not fully recovered yet, but he insisted on coming here. ‘It would be best to cut this short.’<br /> As soon as I say those words, guilt starts to drum in my chest. I know that I should try to make things more festive instead of thinking about Claudia, but not knowing how things are on that front is almost as bad as being here and seeing my people feeling blue.<br /> “I think it would be best if you go down and communicate with them personally,” Carlos says, and I can’t believe I never thought of that before.<br /> I get up from my throne with the full intent of going around, but then I see a familiar face by the door. Someone I really don’t want to see.<br /> Alpha Tristan.<br /> He’s still wearing a coat, speckled with snow. The butler tries to take it from him but he pushes him away, which makes me tense up, immediately ready for a fight. However, he’s not alone. Walking behind him like lapdogs are the Alphas of his neighboring packs: Giorgio, Anthony, and Larkin.<br /> Their auras are so domineering and so distracting that the people in the throne room stop what they’re doing and just watch them approach me. But instead of meeting them halfway, I remain standing in front of the throne with the steps of the dais separating us.<br /> None of them bows down to me.<br /> “What are you doing here?” Carlos asks, and it perfectly reflects what’s in my mind, just more polite.<br /> Tristan flashes me a smirk. “We’re here because we’re tired of the preposterous games that Sangria Amori is playing. We need change!”<br /> Even though I can’t hear him, I can feel the vibrations of his scream on the walls and the floor. He’s livid, and because of this, the people in the room are tuning in.<br /> I don’t like the admiring and interested looks on their faces. I look at Carlos. ‘We shouldn’t have this talk here.’<br /> “Alpha Tristan.” Carlos gives him a strained smile, motioning him to come along. “We shall move this conversation to a more private location and perhaps—”<br /> “Get your hands off me.” Tristan pushes past him and squares up to me. “What you’re doing to these people is sickening. Making them show up here, forced to have fun, when they are suffering from problems you would never know about from your high throne. You’re making a mockery of their situation, flaunting your privilege in their faces.”<br /> I want to push him down the steps and pound his face into a pulp, but I restrain myself. Instead, I just sign something that Carlos translates with perfect contempt.<br /> “Get out, right now.”<br /> Tristan only scoffs, facing the people. “Last night, instead of meeting with the rest of the Alphas and coming up with a way to erase the Rogues, Alpha King Achilles was late. He left us on our own when we had a Rogue attack. It’s painfully obvious that his disabilities have made him selfish, and unfit to rule our land.”<br /> This time, my temper gets the best of me. I grab him by the arm with the full intent of punching him in the face as soon as he turns, but I stop when the people gasp.<br /> They’re now looking at me in horror.<br /> I slowly let him go. He starts to walk away, step by step, not taking his eyes off me. There’s a certain gleam in his eyes that I can’t identify, but the hairs on the back of my neck are standing on end.<br /> Only when he’s standing by the door do I know why.<br /> “We will no longer take orders from the Alpha King,” Tristan declares, his gaze still on me. “We will handle the Rogues our way, the right way. And those who want to join us would be offered full protection.”<br /> With that, he leaves.<br /> And I watch in horror as some of my citizens begin to get up from their seats, following him out.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 9<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> “Don’t shoot me,” I mutter, and I cringe when I hear the fear in my voice. I hate that I faced that single Rogue like a boss only to fold like this. “I’m not a danger to anyone. I’m a local here. I just moved for work at the palace…”<br /> I stop when I realize I’m about to ramble. I just drop the knife. As soon as it clatters on the floor, I feel the muzzle of the gun easing off my back. I take this as a cue to turn around, and I come face to face with a young man about my age, with straw-colored hair and brown eyes. He’s carrying a massive silver shotgun with rounds of big silver bullets around his body.<br /> He’s studying me closely, fixing his flannel shirt. “Who are you?”<br /> “Claudia Hale,” I say shakily. I even bow, which is dumb, but I guess it’s not so stupid if it stops him from shooting me. “I just came here to visit my parents.”<br /> At first, he doesn’t say anything. My nerves are starting to act up and I find myself basically skipping in my spot. But finally, he asks, “Hale, huh? Do you happen to be related to Ruth?”<br /> My eyes go wide. “Yes! Ruth is my cousin.”<br /> The man’s shoulders relax. He cracks a smile, and suddenly he doesn’t seem so scary anymore. “You must be the cousin she talks about a lot. The singer. I’m Max, by the way. Follow me.”<br /> We shake hands, and I can’t help but feel giddy.<br /> My cousin Ruth is here. I can’t believe it. We were very close as kids, even though we only saw each other over the summers. She left Nightshade Springs when we were both eighteen, and the last thing I heard about her was that she got married to a mason from the nearby village. We saw each other at my dad’s funeral, but we didn’t get to talk much because of my own grief.<br /> But now, I’m going to see her. I wonder if she has kids now.<br /> The thought of little babies running around makes me so excited, so much so that I almost forget to follow Max as he leads me out of the cemetery through an unfamiliar path. I quickly pick up the knife and run after him.<br /> I frown as I pull level with Max. "Why are we using this path?"<br /> The moment the question leaves my lips, the answer comes to me when we turn a corner.<br /> For the first time, I come face to face with the aftermath of the Rogue infestation.<br /> The village is now completely deserted. The houses are dilapidated, empty and broken. The smell of Rogues is present, but distant, which tells me that the place is visited frequently but they're not actually here. Dried blood is scattered all over the ground like paint.<br /> "That's animal blood," Max explains, following the direction of my gaze. "We vacated this place a long time ago. We still live in this area, but we decided to stick close together to protect ourselves from the Rogues. We figured that it would be best if we show them a strong front. The Kingdom doesn't really do much for us, so we have to take matters into our own hands."<br /> I swallow hard, averting my gaze as we turn another corner, a hidden path behind a small hill.<br /> "Does the Kingdom not visit the villages at all?" I ask.<br /> Max shakes his head. "Nope. Not at all. They send guards from time to time, but you see how many Rogues there are. You know how violent they can be. We needed weapons to protect ourselves, but they just won't provide that. I think they keep it to themselves, leave everyone else defenseless."<br /> I keep quiet. I don't know what to say. Part of me wants to defend the palace. I mean, I know they have it hard, and Achilles is doing his best. But then again, who am I to dismiss their suffering?<br /> I open my mouth to ask where they got their weapons, but then we arrive at a fenced part of the village. Barbed wires are set on tall metal walls, behind which small compact buildings stand proud.<br /> He opens the gate carefully, and we both enter. There are a couple of villages standing watch, carrying guns similar to his. They stare at me, and I have to lower my head to avoid the intensity of their looks.<br /> I want to tell Max that I just want to see Ruth, but before I can get the question out, I see two people running towards me.<br /> I look up and my heart nearly gives out when I see that it's Ruth, together with a tall bearded man who must be her husband.<br /> "Claudia!" she squeals, and before I can even drop my bags, she scoops me up into a big hug. "You're home! It's been so long!"<br /> I blink the tears away when she lets me go. "I figured it was time to retire and just stay here."<br /> I feel guilty. I lied to Maia and now I'm lying to Ruth.<br /> “You loved that job, but I do understand,” she says, and I can’t help but be thankful that she didn’t press me for more details. “This is my husband, Henry. We live in one of the apartments. You can stay with us if you like, but I think it would be best if you get your own room.”<br /> “It’s nice to meet you,” Henry says, taking my bags from me. “I will take these up to your room.”<br /> I smile. “Thank you so much.”<br /> He and Max leave, and Ruth takes my arm, steering me into a small structure at the foot of one of the buildings. I can hear cheers and smell food from outside, and I find myself relaxing when I see that it’s a pub. Men and women alike are laughing and talking, downing jugs of beer and eating fried food. It’s quite fascinating to see so much life and joy in a single space in this lost land, but I can’t help but feel grateful.<br /> Ruth and I sit on the counter. The bartender slides two jugs of beer and a platter of steaming chips. I grab the chips even though they’re hot, stuffing them all in my mouth and drinking the beer. Everything is strangely fresh, and I can’t help but gobble it all up. Ruth watches me with amusement as she sips her drink.<br /> “Do they not feed you up there?” she jokes, shaking her head. “Honestly, I don’t blame you for going home. It must have been hell there.”<br /> My appetite suddenly vanishes. “Well, it’s not so bad. But nothing like home, yes.” I clear my throat, desperate for a change of topic. “So, Max found me in the cemetery. He’s… an interesting character.”<br /> “I know, he mind-linked it to me.” She shrugs. “Max is kind of an asshole, but I get why. He had to step up as our leader when the palace guards left us. He looted all those guns that we use now, so the only thing we have to forge are bullets. Screw the Kingdom and that deaf-mute idiot who rules it.”<br /> My face goes hot. I want to defend Achilles. I want to tell Ruth not to call him that, but then again, he kicked me out for defending him.<br /> “Is everyone doing the same?” I start to ask, but then a small commotion breaks out in the corner of the pub where the entrance is.<br /> “Hey, keep that bastard out!” I hear some of the men yelling.<br /> “He barged right in and demanded entry!”<br /> “It’s one of those palace fuckers!”<br /> I freeze. Ruth and I both slide out of our stools, looking over at the chaos.<br /> My heart jumps right into my throat when I see Gamma Kiernan trying to force his way inside the pub.<br /> “Bring me Claudia Hale, and we will not have any problems.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 10<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Panic takes a hold of me. Suddenly, I feel my entire body going numb. I can feel Ruth beside me and I can hear her saying something, but it’s like my mind is tuning out. All I can hear are muffled voices. All I can feel is my heart hammering inside my ribs like it wants to get out.<br /> I blink a couple of times as we get pushed back by the ongoing commotion. For a moment I’m certain that I’m not seeing things correctly, but I’m wrong.<br /> Gamma Kiernan is really here, and he’s looking for me.<br /> “No way you’re getting in,” the men at the entrance keep telling him. “Pack it up and leave!”<br /> “I will not leave until you bring Claudia Hale here,” he insists. “I can smell her scent in the air. I know you’re hiding her. Back off, and no one gets hurt.”<br /> “How dare you threaten us?”<br /> With that, the chaos ensues. Now there are so many men blocking his way, and soon enough, women are clamoring to shoo him out of the pub too. I can see his expression. I know that he can take these men down if he wants to, but he’s restraining himself.<br /> The urge to step up and show myself before things get ugly overcomes me, but then Ruth wheels around and dunks my head down, preventing me from getting seen.<br /> “Why the hell are they looking for you?” Ruth demands. “Did you do something?”<br /> “No,” I begin to say, but that’s when I feel a strong hand dragging me back.<br /> “Ow!” I complain under my breath, feeling myself getting yanked back into the corner by this strong person. I turn around and see Max. He’s squeezing my arm so hard that I can almost feel the bruises appearing. “Let me go!”<br /> He just glares at me. “You are not going to show yourself to that upstart. You’re going to stay here behind the bar. Understand?”<br /> “No!” I snatch my arm back from him. “Do you want your people to get hurt?”<br /> His eyes flash with anger. “You’re really assuming we’re the ones who’d get hurt? You put too much faith in those men who don’t do anything but sit on their asses and command the lower people to fight for them.”<br /> I realize that he’s referring to the palace royals, including Achilles. His claims are so false that I square up to him, shoving him back. “You have no idea what you’re talking about! Those men risk their lives for us!”<br /> “Maybe for you,” Max growls dryly, “but never for me.”<br /> The next events happen so fast. So much so that I don’t even get the time to react. Max just grabs me by the shoulders, pushes me right into the broom closet, and props a chair against the doorknob to basically lock it from outside. I fall on the floor, flat on my behind, but then I spring up to my feet to try to ram it down.<br /> “Let me out!” I scream, but I doubt anyone would hear me from the absolute meltdown happening outside.<br /> I could shift into my wolf and break the door, but I think I would end up demolishing half the pub in the process. So even though I want to end this, I just stay by the door, pressing my ear against it and listening as best as I can.<br /> That’s when I hear Max announcing, “Silence, everyone. Let the man speak.”<br /> The people immediately shut up, which surprises me. It seems that everyone really recognizes him as their leader. I can almost picture him stepping up to Gamma Kiernan.<br /> “Thank you,” Gamma Kiernan says. “As I was trying to say before I got swarmed, I need Claudia Hale.”<br /> “Why?” Max asks in a calm, almost lazy tone.<br /> “Because the Alpha King says so,” Gamma Kiernan replies in a similar voice. “We don’t want any trouble with the King, do we?”<br /> “Oh, no, we don’t,” Max answers, but this time, he sounds perfectly sarcastic. I can hear the others around him letting out a laugh. “We really don’t. But you see, Claudia isn’t here.”<br /> Silence fills the air. I want to scream at the top of my lungs to alert everyone of my presence, but I’m stunned. Petrified, really. Did the Gamma really say that it’s Alpha Achilles who’s asking for me?<br /> But why? Why would he look for me? It hasn’t even been a day since I left. Does he regret all the things he did, all the things he said to me? Did he realize that I didn’t actually do anything wrong, and he punished me out of pure pride and possibly stupidity?<br /> Now that’s something I want to hear. I want him to say sorry.<br /> I’m about to scream when suddenly, I hear Gamma Kiernan saying, “I can smell her. Do not fucking lie to me.”<br /> Somehow, I’m able to sense something about to go wrong before it even transpires. I make a move to ram the door down before things can break out, but it’s too late.<br /> Before I can even do anything, I hear Max saying in a low voice, “Deal with this bastard.”<br /> And then, hell breaks loose.<br /> It’s so loud I can almost see it. The men in the pub all yell for battle and the sounds that follow root me to my spot. More screams. Thuds from bodies hitting the floor and the walls. Broken glass. Snapping wood. Arrows whizzing. Wolves howling. Gunshots. So many gunshots….<br /> Soon enough, the smell of blood fills the air, and my heart nearly stops.<br /> It seems to go on forever, the sound and the smell and the carnage. I can make out specific voices like Gamma Kiernan’s, telling his men to stand down and leave. I can hear Max telling his people to pursue them, to drive them back and make sure they learn their lesson. On and on and on it goes.<br /> But just when I think that it’s never going to end, silence follows.<br /> It’s almost eerie. One can hear a pin drop. Who got shot? Did anyone die?<br /> The thought of death because of me is what finally breaks me. I ram down the door without shifting into my wolf form, but when I arrive at the bar, it’s too late. I can hear the sound of horses whinnying outside, their hooves hitting the ground in loud thuds as they run fast. I see the flash of the red carriage through the broken windows.<br /> I look all over the floor to see if anyone has fallen, but aside from the smears of blood, it seems that everyone made it out alive.<br /> At least, from this party.<br /> I don’t know if I can say the same about the people from the palace.<br /> Suddenly, Max enters the pub, sporting a broken nose. He tears off a piece of his shirt and uses it to dab on the blood, but I march toward him and snatch it right out of his hand. “What did you do?”<br /> “Showed them that they have no business here,” he says simply, taking the strip of fabric back from me. “The only thing I should be hearing from you is thank you, unless…”<br /> Everyone in the pub looks at me.<br /> Ruth is the one who gets up and turns to me. “What did you do, Claudia? Why are they looking for you?”<br /> Max crosses his arms. "Give us a good reason why we shouldn't kick you out of here. 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| 1846799 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446611 | 1735168093 | 890 | 1878396422583238 | 1 | 9.8745158604594E+14 | 1712300400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 127476320437895 | 0 | Joylit Novel | 120209381868170155 | cdn.joylitnovel.com | Learn more | NONE | video | 👇 Click here to continue reading | https://cdn.joylitnovel.com/pages/aae98514-07be-4ed9-91fd-7d3b91cd671e.html?p0=10n5m3ce&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}} | 1712247658 | 1.274763204379E+14 | Joylit Novel | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435365176_1815684825600496_7237409358955529173_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gKtWLSP6LtYQ7kNvgG0A8oR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBwS6B2_urImZrRBWdC0csougcPrNBb-g1CooH6WAB2bA&oe=6663EA15 | person_profile | 0 | Joylit Novel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435490057_755677253299480_2944357745188530611_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=K5wiVRS0oQwQ7kNvgHVxAMo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA28_sTLWIoa3901g5QpXY33nagfghs2fVD95LeUvXiCw&oe=6663ED5E | 0 | 3 | CLAUDIA.<br /> “Attention, calling all maids to the throne room.”<br /> I freeze as the announcement blares through the speakers. I’m in the maid’s quarters, looking for something in my drawers, and I have to admit that this is an interruption.<br /> My friend Maia, another maid, watches me with boredom as the announcement continues to echo in the room. “Give it up, Claudia. Stop trying to prove that you were friends with the Alpha King when you were kids. You’re a maid and what would Alpha Achilles want to do with you?”<br /> I don’t answer her. I just flip over my bottom drawer until all my socks fall out. But along with the socks comes a small folded parchment, containing the words, “To Claudia, from Achilles.”<br /> “Aha!” I shove the paper right into her hands. “Feast on that.”<br /> Maia rolls her eyes, but she just reads it aloud. “Dear Claudia, I hope this note finds you well. I refused to open the door for you because I believe I made things clear. We are no longer friends.” She chucks the paper at me. “How old is this note?”<br /> My face heats up. “Maybe eighteen years?”<br /> “So he sent that to you when he was twelve and you were… six?”<br /> “Yes,” I mutter, pocketing the note. “It’s important to me, okay?”<br /> She laughs at me. “Why? Because you’re hoping you could be close again? He’s the Alpha King now, Claudia. And our duty is to keep this place and the people running. Get over yourself and let’s go before we get thrown out.”<br /> Everything she said was right. It’s a stupid thing to hold onto, but I can’t let it go.<br /> Even when Maia drags me to the throne room, I find myself bursting with hope. All the maids are now gathered for some sort of meeting, and instead of worrying about what it’s for, I’m craning my neck, trying to look at the golden thrones on the dais.<br /> But the only person I find standing there is Beta Carlos, a tanned, dark-haired unit of a man who handles everything minor for Alpha Achilles.<br /> He surveys the room with indifference, as a person of his standing usually does, clearing his throat before speaking. “I gathered you all here because we need one maid to come with us to the Moonlight Grove Pack for the annual winter solstice meeting tonight. Since we are short-staffed, we decided to see if anyone volunteers first.”<br /> I wait for hands to shoot into the air, but there are only whispers rippling among the crowd. The maids are all avoiding Beta Carlos’s eyes as though they would evaporate if they made eye contact with him. <br /> I understand why. Rogue attacks have been notorious lately. Our pack, Sangria Amori, is the biggest and the strongest, which is the reason why we haven’t experienced any breaches yet. But the smaller packs have, and it’s enough for some of our maids to quit to be with their families.<br /> The only ones who are stuck here are the single maids or the ones who are desperate for money. Then you have people like me, loyal servants for generations.<br /> Beta Carlos’s frustration is clear now. He opens his mouth to say something but he stops when the curtains behind him suddenly open.<br /> And out comes the Alpha King himself, Achilles.<br /> The world stops. My heart picks up its pace, beating so fast that I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I stare at him as he stands next to Beta Carlos, towering over him by half a foot. Everyone inside the room sinks into a bow, but I don’t. I can’t. The only thing I can do is stare at him.<br /> It’s like he has his own gravitational pull on me. I’m unable to look away from the shiny waves of his black hair and the coolness of his blue eyes. Despite the raging snow outside, his skin has a touch of gold, complimenting the bloodred coat he’s wearing. His presence is almost divine. Even the chandelier lights from above seem to be drawn to him.<br /> As though it can’t get any better, he meets my eyes.<br /> And just like that, I raise my hand. “I volunteer to come to the solstice meeting.”<br /> “What are you thinking?” Maia hisses at me, trying to tug at my uniform to get me to lower my hand.<br /> But Beta Carlos already saw me. Alpha Achilles did too.<br /> However, his face darkens with disapproval.<br /> I clear my throat and speak louder. “I volunteer! I will serve—”<br /> “Claudia, is it?” Beta Carlos interjects. “Have you forgotten that our Alpha King… can’t hear you?”<br /> The silence that follows is almost loud. Loud enough to make my ears pop. Only then do I realize my mistake.<br /> Alpha Achilles is deaf and mute. For some reason, this has also affected his ability to mind-link. These are details that I shouldn’t be forgetting, but then again, he and I have a history, and he didn’t use to be that way. <br /> We played together a lot as kids. He would take me to the forests behind the palace so we could pretend to spar. We were inseparable, until one night. All I can remember was waking up in the infirmary dripping wet and cold. Achilles wasn’t with me, but I was told he was in his room.<br /> I didn’t know what happened, and I still don’t. But the first day I tried to visit him in his room was when I received his note.<br /> Fast forward six years. He was eighteen, I was twelve. He got crowned as the next Alpha King. He could no longer hear or speak.<br /> Some say it was a curse from the Moon Goddess. Some say it was a developing disease in his body that reached its peak. It’s been twelve years since that reveal. He’s thirty now, and I’m twenty-four. No one knows the truth yet.<br /> I want to tell him that I’m sorry through sign language, but I don’t know how. He just turns to Beta Carlos and shakes his head ever so subtly.<br /> He doesn’t want me to come.<br /> Beta Carlos swallows. “Claudia… would you come up here, please? The rest are dismissed.”<br /> As I make my way to the dais, the maids start to file out of the throne room. Maia catches my eyes for a second and shakes her head, but I continue to walk until I’m standing in front of them.<br /> “No one else wants to come,” I point out in a shaky voice. “I… I want to go. I want to help.”<br /> Beta Carlos looks at Alpha Achilles pointedly. I don’t know what kind of communication is happening between them, but it seems that Beta Carlos is urging him to give it a chance, probably because they have no other choice. Alpha Achilles doesn’t seem to want to, but in the end, he relents and stands close to me. <br /> So close that I can catch his scent. So close that I can see the flecks of green in his eyes.<br /> So close that he can kiss me if he wants to.<br /> My breath hitches in my throat. Longing fills my heart. How many times have I wished this to happen? I want to say so much to him. I feel like so much time has been stolen from us. Our friendship was so amazing….<br /> “I will do well,” I whisper. “I won’t let you down.”<br /> Alpha Achilles stares at me for a couple more seconds, then he just turns around and walks away.<br /> Beta Carlos sighs and starts to follow him, turning to me at the last second as though I’m an afterthought. “Follow me.”<br /> I run after him through the tunnel behind the throne room, but his long legs are carrying him so far and I have to jog to keep up. Finally, we arrive at the back lawn of the palace. The cold hits me like a punch in the gut, but Beta Carlos tosses me a fur coat. I wriggle into it as a carriage pulls up in front of us, with a sleek red and gold body, pulled by two palomino horses.<br /> “Get in,” he says blandly, and I climb into the carriage with him behind me.<br /> Alpha Achilles is already inside, staring through the window, completely ignoring my presence.<br /> I try to communicate with him, but Beta Carlos gets in and pushes me into the corner as the carriage starts to move.<br /> The seats are cushioned and the walls are upholstered with red velvet, but I still get hurt as the carriage basically leaps and crashes on the cold snowy ground. The horses are running at full speed, which I understand, because we are about two hours until dusk, and Moonlight Grove Pack is one hour away.<br /> The coachman whips the horses, rallying them into a frenzied sprint faster than before. I gasp as I fly off my seat. I thought things would settle after a while, but something seemed to be off.<br /> The horses are whinnying. The silent path is now riddled with a mix of thuds and heavy breaths. A strange smell permeates the air. A putrid stench, a mix of rot and blood and savagery.<br /> The scent of Rogues.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 2<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Fear grips my throat like a vice. I look over at Alpha Achilles and Beta Carlos, and it seems that they noticed the stench too. <br /> “We’re being followed,” Beta Carlos tells me. “When I tell you to hide, you hide, alright? We will outrun them and kill them at the same time.”<br /> I just nod, paralyzed in the corner as growls and howls start to fill the air. <br /> This isn’t my first time to encounter Rogues. I ran into a small pack of them once when I was one of the maids assigned to do the shopping for the palace. This was two years ago, but I still remember it so vividly. Our carriage, much older and less stable than this one, passed by their hideout, and I managed to catch a glimpse of five Rogues tearing apart a dead guard in uniform. <br /> The first thing that hit me was the smell. The distinct combination of decay and fresh death. It was in the air like a bad perfume. Strangely enough, it was so fitting with the scene laid out in front of me. As they broke into the meat of the guard, the smell seemed to get stronger.<br /> I wasn’t able to eat meat for months. Even now, it still repulses me sometimes.<br /> Since then, armed deliveries have been made to the palace.<br /> But I will never forget.<br /> In fact, the whole scene is flashing in my mind now as Alpha Achilles opens a chest at the side of the seats. He pulls out a silver crossbow with a quiver of arrows. Beta Carlos opens the windows, and Alpha Achilles sticks his entire upper body out, firing the bow with unimaginable strength as the carriage moves faster.<br /> I didn’t want to look, but I turned around and stared through the back window.<br /> There are about a dozen Rogues running after us, snarling and biting and wandering just too close to the carriage. But one by one, the big black Rogues start to falter. The closest ones are hit directly in the eye, the silver arrow piercing right through their skulls and instantly killing them. <br /> Alpha Achilles continues to shoot them all down. As more of them topple, more Rogues start to back off. Eventually, the path behind us is clear.<br /> But the smell lingers in the air.<br /> “There’s more of them around,” I whisper, and Beta Carlos looks at me.<br /> “You’re right.”<br /> Alpha Achilles slides back into the carriage, slamming the window shut. He looks enraged. I can almost feel it emanating from him as he throws the bow and arrows back into the chest and kicks it back into place. He slides a map toward the coachman, who slows down for a few miles and then completely swerves in a different direction.<br /> I want to ask what’s wrong, but when even Beta Carlos looks wary, it’s best to be quiet.<br /> We sit in that awful silence for a couple more moments. The coachman is really pushing it, whipping the horses more and more frequently. But since we changed routes, we arrive at the meeting after three hours.<br /> The big iron gates open for us, and I see the gigantic wall surrounding the pack. The pack mansion looms into view. Men in black uniforms are carrying silver weapons, staring at our carriage as it pulls up.<br /> We jump out of the carriage and run into the mansion, and standing in the foyer are the other Alphas.<br /> Alpha Tristan of the hosting pack, a brutish monster of a man with copper-colored hair and gray eyes, steps forward.<br /> “You’re late,” he spits out at Alpha Achilles. “We were expecting you more than an hour ago. Do you simply not respect anyone else’s time?”<br /> Alpha Achilles turns to Beta Carlos to sign his response and have him relay it. I’m about to step aside when I suddenly hear a voice in my mind, loud and clear: 'Tell him we had to find another route because of the Rogues around his pack.'<br /> My heart drops. I turn back around, and I realize that the exact thing I heard is what Beta Carlos is relaying to the group now. “Alpha Achilles wishes to inform everyone that we had to find another route, seeing as there were Rogues around the property.” <br /> I freeze. Did I just hear Alpha Achilles mind-link his words to me? I blink hard to shake off the possibility of hallucination, but nothing happens. I know I heard him. I know that was him.<br /> Alpha Tristan scoffs. “There are no Rogues here. We drove them all back. We killed all of them. One can even say that my pack is now safer than yours, Alpha Achilles.”<br /> Needless to say, Alpha Achilles does not take that well. He squares up against Alpha Tristan, his lips pulled back in a snarl. He motions something to Beta Carlos, who goes pale. He shakes his head, telling him that he can’t understand.<br /> But I can. I hear the voice in my head again. ‘You’re a liar. You didn’t kill a single Rogue. Your pack is in danger, and you’re too high up in your ass to admit it.’<br /> I can understand Alpha Achilles.<br /> I can hear his voice when no one else can.<br /> “Well?” Alpha Tristan prompts. “What is he saying?” <br /> Beta Carlos still doesn’t understand, and Alpha Achilles is visibly frustrated now. The other Alphas are starting to whisper among themselves, obviously not pleased by this inconvenience. <br /> “What is he saying?” they keep asking, while Beta Carlos is red-faced, trying desperately to communicate.<br /> I know I should probably shut up. My job here in the first place is to assist in the meeting, a mere delivery girl for snacks and anything else that the Alphas might need. But I just can’t help seeing the helpless hint in Alpha Achilles’s eyes when no one can understand what he’s saying. <br /> So I step forward, relaying the words I just heard. “Alpha Achilles said that you’re a liar. The Rogues are alive, and you’re too arrogant to admit it.”<br /> The entire room goes silent. The Alphas are at a standstill, all looking at me with varying expressions of shock. The world seems to freeze for a moment as I slowly come to the realization that I messed up.<br /> “I’m so sorry,” I quickly amend. “I… I just heard the Alpha King—”<br /> “Heard?” Alpha Tristan echoes. “You heard him? He’s mute, you imbecile!”<br /> The other Alphas laugh. I lower my head, but as I do so, I catch sight of Alpha Achilles looking at me. <br /> His eyes are wide with shock, but I’m surprised to find just a tiny hint of fascination in there amid the rage. That minuscule drop of positive attention almost made me forget the heaviness of the words I just said for him, but the other Alphas didn’t. Especially Alpha Tristan.<br /> “Get this little bitch out of my sight,” he splutters. “If she dares to speak a single word, I will shut her up myself.” <br /> My heart stops. Beta Carlos approaches me as quick as lightning, ushering me back into the carriage. But then, Alpha Achilles steps in between us and grabs me by the arm. <br /> Once again, his voice rings in my head. ‘Touch her, and I will chop your head off.’<br /> “What is this?” Alpha Tristan demands. “What’s he saying this time?” <br /> Beta Carlos swallows hard. “He wishes to say that if you touch the girl, he will chop your head off.” <br /> I thought that the silence earlier was bad enough, but this time it ends up being inexplicably worse.<br /> It’s the silence that makes it feel like the walls are closing in on me, suffocating me. I can almost hear the snow falling outside, gathering on the windows. The Alphas are now looking at me with expressions I can’t read, and I feel like it would be better if they just glared at me. <br /> Alpha Achilles pushes me behind him, standing in front of me protectively. His scent immediately invades my senses, and I have to consciously make an effort to focus as I hear his voice. <br /> 'If you really can hear me, then you can be of use,' he says, and even though his tone is neutral, even cold, I find myself eager to help. 'Tell Tristan that his pride won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around his pack, and they need to be dealt with. Tell him to stop being a pussy and do something about it.' <br /> The bluntness of those words makes me gasp out loud. “I have to tell him that?” <br /> “Tell me what?” Alpha Tristan demands. “Speak for him, if that is what he wishes to do!” <br /> “Speak!” the other Alphas urge me, and I look at Alpha Achilles helplessly. <br /> “He says that your pride, Alpha Tristan,” I begin nervously, “won’t erase the fact that Rogues are present around your pack and they need to be dealt with.” I pause, swallowing hard. “And you should stop being a pussy and do something about it.” <br /> Saying that was like dropping a bomb. The Alphas suddenly rush forward, complaining about the words as though they came from me. <br /> “Respectfully,” Alpha Tristan growls, “get out of my pack.” <br /> Alpha Achilles smirks, but he starts to walk away, keeping me away from Alpha Tristan. Beta Carlos looks like he wants to protest, but it’s over. <br /> The meeting didn’t happen not because we were late, but because no one wanted to listen.<br /> However, before we can even make it through the door, loud sirens begin to ring inside the meeting room, echoing in the halls and in the whole pack. Alpha Tristan freezes. “We are under attack.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 3<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The strong vibrations on the ground tell me that the sirens are still ringing. I know that Tristan told me to leave, and a part of me wants to make good on this so he would learn his lesson, but I refuse to put any of his people in danger just because their leader can’t swallow his pride.<br /> Instead of leaving with Claudia and Carlos, I beckoned the Alphas to come forward and fight. Thankfully, they don’t question me this time. Even Tristan marches out with them, not bothering to look at me.<br /> “What are we going to do, Alpha?” Carlos asks.<br /> 'We are going to fight,' I tell him through signing. 'The Rogues must be in their borders now, and we can’t let them get in. You and I are going to get out there, fight them from the outside, and stop them from breaking through.'<br /> Carlos nods, and I finally turn to Claudia. 'You stay here. No matter what happens, don’t leave.'<br /> “But….” she starts to protest, but then she swallows hard and relents. “I will.”<br /> With that, Carlos and I leave the room, shifting into our Wolf forms as soon as we hit the fields outside the pack mansion.<br /> Thick snow is now covering the ground, with more raining down from the slate blue sky. Light fog is shrouding the land, making the lifeless trees look like cruel thin hands thrust into the sky, but I can still see the battle going on in the distance. The Alphas and the patrol guards are keeping the Rogues at bay, because the stone walls that surround the pack are now chipped and damaged on one side, providing a point of entry for the enemy.<br /> Carlos and I leap across another section of the wall, landing on the thick forest outside the pack. It’s a lot darker here, colder, but the near absence of anything makes me feel strangely more connected.<br /> Even when the first line of Rogues sees us and starts to attack, I find myself fighting back seamlessly. I push back the Rogues trying to tackle me, swatting them with my paws and crushing them under.<br /> The thing about Rogues is their number. That’s how they succeed in taking over the packs since they started their revolution two years ago. As the Alpha King, I tried peace talks with them. I tried to hear their demands and find a middle ground, but they were never open to that. They just attacked mindlessly in the hopes of weakening us enough to submit.<br /> However, they are weak. If their necks get bitten, or if their chests get damaged, they’re basically as good as dead.<br /> So that’s what I do know. Every time they charge, I pin them to the ground and crush their ribs under my paws. I bite the others, always aiming for their necks. Their smell is thick in the air, making it easy for me to sense where they are and where they’re coming next even though I can’t hear them. Once their blood is shed, they freeze on the ground, unmoving and unable to attack again.<br /> But more and more of them are coming.<br /> Still, I’m in my element, and I know that I can take them all down.<br /> It took years for me to become confident in fighting again. Since that Rogue attack when I was twelve, I’ve grown fearful and limited.<br /> When I found out that I lost my voice and my hearing, it felt like my life ended. All the things I used to love doing became looming monsters that I had to overcome.<br /> My father was the one who came to my rescue. He taught me how to fight again, to use my other senses to make up for the fact that I can’t call for backup, I can’t command anyone, and I can’t hear what’s going on around me.<br /> And I have gotten good. So good in fact that I could take down troops of Rogues all by myself. I gained the respect of the other Alphas because of it too.<br /> But what happened today reminds me that even after this adjustment, I’m still as limited as before.<br /> When Carlos couldn’t understand me, I felt as small and as voiceless as I did eighteen years ago.<br /> The only thing that saved me from sinking low was Claudia.<br /> I still don’t know how she did it. I still don’t know how or why I hear her voice in my head, melodious and clear and refreshing, after years of not being able to hear anything else. It’s like her presence pierced through every weakness I have and made it her own, alleviated it, allowed me room to breathe.<br /> And now I feel like I have to be close to her.<br /> More Rogues attack, trying to crowd around me to limit my movements. I push all of them back, keeping them in front of me where I can see them and rounding them all up until they fall into crumpled heaps under my feet.<br /> I’m winning. Adrenaline is rushing through my veins like a drug, and I’m getting high just off the thought of another victory. I begin to move faster, breaking through their ranks until the others are too afraid to approach. It feels like I have no disability at all….<br /> Until I feel a familiar whoosh of energy behind my back.<br /> I turn around just in time. I see a Rogue flying midair with its teeth bared and ready to bite. I freeze, petrified at how close it is and how I didn’t sense it.<br /> And that’s my biggest mistake of the night.<br /> Seemingly out of nowhere, Carlos swerves into view and wedges himself between me and the Rogue, taking the bite that was supposed to be for me.<br /> Only when the Rogue tackles him down do I remember to move. I claw at it, scratching its face and leaving long and deep gashes. It backs away with a whimper, but it’s too late. The damage is done.<br /> Time seems to slow down, to stop, even. Blood pools around Carlos’s neck like a halo.<br /> “Alpha…” I see his mouth move. His eyes are becoming unfocused, and I can almost feel him panting in pain. “Alpha, go back to the mansion.”<br /> I shake my head. I make my way towards him, stumbling, but the vibrations on the ground suggest that the battle is still going. My vision is blurred now. All I can see is the blood. All of my senses have shut down, so much so that I don’t feel the Rogues crowding around us until I catch their scent.<br /> They’re coming at me from all sides now, and all I can do is push them away from Carlos. My heart is frozen in my chest in fear. Every second that passes feels like a missed opportunity to get him the help he needs.<br /> I keep pushing the Rogues back, but my concentration is gone. The fact that I can’t hear or call for help is catching up to me. I get scratches all across my arms, my chest, my face….<br /> Until their weight finally holds me down.<br /> I shift into my human form to avoid getting crushed, but I can’t protect Carlos anymore. I’m trying to pull him to his feet, but we’re stuck….<br /> But then the Rogues start to scatter just as a sweet, warm scent invades my nostrils.<br /> I look up, and I find Claudia standing before us, driving the Rogues back.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 4<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Claudia shifts into a beautiful bronze-colored wolf, breaking through the group of Rogues and scattering them. This time, they don’t return or retaliate. They just scamper away.<br /> With that, she reverts back to her human form and starts to lead me and Carlos away from the battle.<br /> I don’t know how she did it, but she somehow gets us out of there and back into the front of the mansion. Perhaps I’m just reeling from what happened. Perhaps I’m just being thick. Either way, when I come back down to earth, I see that she’s already propping Carlos against one of the columns, tearing off the hem of her skirt to stem the flow of blood in his neck.<br /> Only when I see her whispering to him do I realize what exactly happened.<br /> She… saved both of us.<br /> After I told her to stay inside the meeting room no matter what.<br /> The first emotion that floods my chest is anger. She didn’t follow my command. She just went ahead and did what she wanted. But the next thing that follows that wave of rage is something I’m not ready to acknowledge: appreciation. A rush of affection. Disbelief that she came to my aid when I needed it the most and most likely single-handedly saved Carlos’s life when I wasn’t capable of doing so.<br /> Still, the first thing that I think of saying is, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”<br /> Unsurprisingly, she hears it. She wheels around on me with indignation on her face. “You told me you needed my help. So I fought off the guards to save you. What I deserve right now is a thank you, not whatever this is.”<br /> I get up and try to reason with her, but then I see a big shadow looming over us. Claudia suddenly sinks into her knees for a bow. I turn around and see Alpha Tristan, covered in Rogue blood.<br /> His eyes find Claudia, flashing with an expression I can’t read. But when he looks at me, what he feels is clear enough, and that is pure and utter distaste.<br /> The battle seems to be over, and there are a couple of wounded Alphas and patrol guards being assisted into the mansion. I try to get up and help, but Tristan puts a hand on my chest despite me being half a foot taller than him, stopping me with a glare.<br /> “Don’t even dare,” he mutters. “I am tired of your selfishness. I am tired of the absolute disrespect you show to our people. For the past two years since this revolution started, you have approached this with only yourself and your pack in mind. What about us? What about the other people who are suffering, the ones who are much, much lower in rank?”<br /> I can’t hear his voice, but I can read his lips, and every single thing he says hits me like a punch in the gut.<br /> I want to say something. I want to tell him that it was not like that, that it was never like that at all. I have kept every single citizen in his land in mind whenever I charged for battle. That’s why I preferred to have an active role instead of doling out commands.<br /> However, I can’t help but feel a sting of truth behind his words. In a lot of ways, he’s right. The only fighting strategy I know is fighting alone or with Carlos. That’s not always going to work. Like tonight. I took him away from the main event of the fight and encouraged him to fight on the sidelines with me. And look where that got him.<br /> Wounded and broken, trying to protect me from a threat I didn’t hear expect because I couldn’t hear anything.<br /> Suddenly, the old shame of being deaf and mute comes back. I have spent years trying my best to be okay with my condition, and I have come to a point where I thought I was making the most of my abilities.<br /> I never thought I would be thrust back into feeling like none of the growth I made mattered.<br /> Around us, the wounded Alphas and Betas get visited by healers, carefully urged back into the safety and warmth of the mansion. I can’t bear to even look at them. I feel like everything is my fault.<br /> Tristan for sure feels like it is.<br /> He walks around me like I’m just his disobedient child. “Leaving in the middle of battle is a disgrace. You are the Alpha King, and you should act like it. The safety of our people should always come before yours or anyone close to you. What you did—”<br /> “Pardon, Alpha Tristan,” Claudia suddenly says.<br /> Tristan looks at her like he wants to take her head off and throw it across the mountains, and all my instincts rise into protective mode. I try to get in between them, but Claudia stands in front of Tristan and squares up against him.<br /> I can tell that she’s scared. She keeps kneading her hands, which are still slick with Carlos’s blood. Her breathing is uneven, and I can tell that she would rather hide, but for some reason, she’s facing him in this strange challenge.<br /> “You’re interrupting me again,” he notes in disbelief before glaring at me. “You should train this pet of yours.”<br /> I make a move to push him, but Claudia catches my arm and shoves me back. “Alpha Tristan, it was me who took them back to the mansion. It’s not right for you to talk to the Alpha King this way, and—”<br /> 'Don’t do it,' I warn her. 'Don’t cross him.'<br /> Claudia doesn’t listen. “What you’re doing is disrespectful. No one is gravely hurt, and we should be glad that--”<br /> “Out,” Tristan interjects. “Get out of my pack, and never show yourselves ever again. I'm banning the Alpha King and anyone from his side from Moonlight Grove Pack.”<br /> She opens her mouth as though to protest, but I just grab her shoulder and pull her back as Tristan pushes past her and enters the mansion. Then, his guards start to close the doors, barring us from ever entering.<br /> She blinks hard as though she can’t believe it happened that way. She slowly faces me. “I’m sorry.”<br /> I don’t listen to her. I just beckon Carlos to follow me, and off we go back to our pack.<br /> The awkwardness inside the carriage back home is almost tangible, with the three of us facing each other. I can’t even look at Claudia. The disappointment and rage brewing inside me need a release. I know that part of it is my fault, but there is only one reason why we were kicked out and shut down just like that.<br /> 'Take him to the infirmary,' I sign to the guards as soon as we arrive, and they all guide Carlos up the stairs. When Carlos looks at me questioningly, I communicate to him, 'I will be here for a while.'<br /> Claudia tries to get up the stairs, but I hold my arm out and block her way. She looks up at me in fear, and I stand in front of her.<br /> “If this is about what happened….” she begins, but I shake my head to cut her off.<br /> 'I don’t know how you can hear me,' I say coldly, 'and I don’t know how I can hear you. It must be some kind of freak connection between us because we were close as kids, but those days are gone. You and I don’t mix anymore, and that’s how it should be. You have no business speaking for me. You have no business putting words in my mouth.'<br /> She swallows hard. “I only wanted to direct his anger at myself, not you.”<br /> That takes me a little aback, but I shake my head. My decision is already set.<br /> I look down at Claudia, holding her gaze. 'Once daylight sets in, I want you to leave the palace and find another home to serve. We are now parting ways.'<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 5<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> My chest goes hard, as though my body is slowly turning into stone. I look up at Alpha Achilles, blinking rapidly and trying hard to focus despite the growing pain in my heart, desperately wishing I heard wrong.<br /> But Alpha Achilles just stares down at me.<br /> "I can't leave," I tell him, my lips barely moving. In fact, my face feels numb. "I... this is the only home I know."<br /> His face stays stoic. Unmoved. 'It doesn't matter. Moonlight Grove is the biggest pack next to ours, and I lost their loyalty.'<br /> I shake my head. "I did it for you. I spoke for you. When no one understood you, I did. And I made sure everyone else did too. The only reason I talked to Tristan is because I wanted him to punish me for taking you away. Why are you doing this to me?"<br /> I take a step closer to him, and he steps back, determined to keep the distance between us. Eventually, he turns away from me like he can't bear to look me in the eye. At first, I think that it's just because he can't stand to look at me, but the longer we stand here, the more I understand that it's because he doesn't want me to see something.<br /> "Tell me," I urge him. "What's the problem? You know it's not my fault."<br /> 'It doesn't matter,' he finally says. 'It has to end here. I'm sorry, Claudia.'<br /> The finality in his tone breaks what's remaining in my heart. My breath hitches in my throat and I find myself opening and closing my mouth, struggling to find the right words to tell him that I don't want to go, that I shouldn't. But nothing comes to mind.<br /> For the first time in my life, I don't know what to say.<br /> He turns around to leave, and every fiber of my being tells me to come after him. Maybe even to stop him. But my body is already frozen in place. The only thing I can do is watch him leave.<br /> He walks back to the palace, and I stand outside for I don't know how long. Snow rains down on me, flocking on my hair and my lashes.<br /> I don’t know what I’m waiting for, to be honest. Am I expecting him to come back and retract his words? Because a part of me definitely wishes he would.<br /> A bigger part of me knows he won’t.<br /> When I see a figure approaching, I immediately think that it's Alpha Achilles, coming back to take back what he said. It’s hard to see in the snow, so I try to meet him halfway.<br /> But it’s only Gamma Kiernan.<br /> His golden blond hair shimmers in the dim light as he peers at me. “Claudia? What are you doing out here in the cold? It’s the start of the Solstice Festival tomorrow, you should be preparing with the rest of the staff.”<br /> I almost say that I’ll be on it, but the only thing that comes out of my mouth is, “I don’t work for the pack anymore, Gamma. I am to leave tomorrow, as what’s ordered by Alpha Achilles.”<br /> “What?” His expression darkens. “We can’t afford to kick out more staff now, not with everyone leaving because of the revolution….” He holds up a hand. “I will talk to him. Just get inside.”<br /> I follow his order, but every step back to the maid’s quarters feels like a big hand digging into my insides and scooping everything out. By the time I get back to my room, I’m already empty.<br /> Empty enough to start packing everything I ever owned.<br /> * * *<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> Letting go of Claudia is the right choice. It has to be.<br /> I should have known that it wasn’t good news, the fact that she could hear me and I could hear her. The moment I felt that rush of affection for her when she tried to stand up to Tristan on my behalf, I knew that it would only be right to release her….<br /> Or at least, this is what I keep saying to myself as I lay in bed, tossing and turning, staring at the moon through the window and replaying the moments of fascination and shame from tonight.<br /> I wish there was a way to erase them all.<br /> How long I lie there awake, I don’t know. But the only reason I finally fall asleep is because my body gives way to exhaustion.<br /> And soon, the dreams come.<br /> In my dream, I’m back beyond the borders of Moonlight Grove Pack. But this time, I’m alone. Carlos is not around. The Rogues aren’t present either. The only thing in front of me is a frozen lake, shining like a mirror under the dark sky.<br /> And standing in the middle of the lake is a beautiful woman with stark white hair and gray eyes. Her skin is so pale that it’s almost blue. Her dress is bright white, pearlescent and glowing, billowing in the air even in the absence of a breeze.<br /> It’s the Moon Goddess, and she’s staring at me.<br /> We haven’t communicated before. She hasn’t shown up in my dreams, but I’ve seen countless paintings of her before, and heard so many stories about her showing up in pivotal moments.<br /> Perhaps this is mine.<br /> My nerves jump, but I sink to my knees, my breath fogging up in front of me.<br /> “Rise, my child,” she says. Even though she’s a deity, I still can’t hear her voice. I can only read her lips. “Dark times are ahead, and they loom closer and closer to you with every second that passes. Just tonight, you have suffered a great loss.”<br /> I don’t get up. 'I have done my best. I protected the people—'<br /> “Exactly,” the Moon Goddess interjects, walking across the frozen lake with the water still moving underneath. Her feet aren’t touching the ice. “That was your victory tonight, even with the parting of your ally. Your loss came much later.”<br /> 'I’m afraid I don’t understand,' I sign to her. 'The battle ended there.'<br /> “No.” She stops right in front of me, reaching out to touch my cheek. “You wished to find a way to expand your limits, and I gave it to you. But you pushed it away.”<br /> I stare at her, trying to decode what she means. I desperately want to make sense of it, to not waste the valuable time I have with her, but nothing is clicking.<br /> “I put her on your path for a reason,” she continues. “And you wanted none of it.”<br /> Suddenly, the Moon Goddess’s face starts to change, morphing like molten wax until it forms a new set of features. <br /> A face that is all too familiar.<br /> Claudia.<br /> She starts to speak again, but this time, I hear her voice—Claudia’s voice—echoing in my head like a prophecy.<br /> “I am the Siren, the Alpha’s Voice, and I shall be heard.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 6<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> I wake up with a gasp, sitting up abruptly like a marionette whose strings got yanked. My head starts to spin, but it’s not because there was no gentle introduction to the waking world.<br /> It’s because of the dream.<br /> Because of Claudia.<br /> I clutch my chest and feel that my heart is going haywire. My back is slick with sweat and I can almost feel it soaking my sheets. I close my eyes for a moment, gathering my thoughts, but the first thing I see in the darkness is Claudia’s face. Her voice is ringing in my ears, the first voice I have heard in so many years.<br /> She’s the Siren, the Moon Goddess said. The Alpha’s Voice.<br /> What does that mean? What does it have to do with me? What does that make her? I have more questions than answers and the frustration building up inside me is turning into anger. I don’t want that. I have to focus.<br /> Because if there is one thing I know, it’s that I fucked up by demanding her to leave.<br /> And I need to get her back.<br /> Fueled by the sudden fiery desire to chase after her and hold her down in the castle if I need to, I jump out of bed. I push open the door and startle the guards. I can see them mouthing, “What is the trouble, Alpha?”<br /> I ignore all of them. I just run along the hallway until I find Kiernan’s room. The guards step aside when they see me, so I push open the door, stumbling inside like a sweaty, clumsy ogre.<br /> Meanwhile, Kiernan is still awake, staring through the window. My heart sinks when I see that it’s already daylight outside, but I still have to try. I need to.<br /> Kiernan turns around, frowns at me, and asks, “Your Majesty. What brings you here?”<br /> He knows that it irks me when he calls me that, but I ignore it anyway. 'I need to find the maid, Claudia.'<br /> I thought he would ask why, but he just narrows his eyes. “The maid you kicked out last night? I found her in the freezing cold, just staring into the distance like she couldn’t believe what happened. I actually told her I would talk to you about it, but when I got to your room, you were already asleep.”<br /> His words hit me like arrows to the heart. I can almost picture Claudia standing where I left her, crying and wondering what she did wrong, all the while I was sleeping soundly with no care in the world….<br /> No. I can’t think about that. It hurts too much.<br /> I step back, the tightness in my chest so extreme that I have to inhale and exhale slowly. Every time I blink I see her distraught face and hear her broken voice, appealing her case and showing me that she deserved to stay.<br /> And what did I do? I kicked her right out like she meant nothing.<br /> Like we never had anything together.<br /> I swallow hard. ‘I need her back here. I made a mistake.’<br /> “Then let’s go to the maids’ quarters,” Kiernan offers. “Maybe she’s still there.”<br /> I nod, and together, we barge into the lower floor where the maids stay. The rooms are already empty as they start their day at dawn. Every empty room we pass makes me want to punch something in regret, but I can still catch the sweet scent of Claudia in the air, lingering like a whisper. Finally, we arrive at her room, where her scent is strongest. The door is still closed.<br /> Kiernan lifts his hand to knock, but I’m desperate. I open the door.<br /> And there is one person inside the room. But it’s not Claudia.<br /> It’s a maid I remember as Maia, her best friend here. She whips around as soon as we get in, and I immediately see her swollen eyes and red face.<br /> “Alpha,” she mutters, sinking into a bow. “Gamma. I will go to work as soon as possible.”<br /> “No, take the time you need,” Kiernan says. “You are obviously in distress. What happened?”<br /> My breath gets stuck in my throat. I already know what she’s going to say, but I find myself searching the room in hopes of finding any proof that Claudia actually chose to stay.<br /> However, the room is blissfully empty. Vacated for the next maid.<br /> “Claudia left, Gamma,” she answers. “She said she needed to go back to her family. It was just so unexpected. I asked her if it had something to do with the meeting, and she said no. She said she’s tired of working. I don’t believe that. She always loved working here….”<br /> I freeze in shock. Kiernan glances at me pointedly before turning back to Maia. “I completely understand. Please, take the day off and rest. The Alpha and I will get going now.”<br /> He grabs me by the arm and pulls me out of the room, closing the door behind us. I can’t even walk properly. I can’t believe what I just heard.<br /> After all the bad things I said to her, she still chose to cover for me.<br /> I stop moving as soon as we reach the foyer. I hold onto the stair banister for support, my throat closed up.<br /> Kiernan stands next to me. “What happened, Your Majesty?”<br /> ‘Don’t call me that,’ I sign to him. ‘Go prepare a carriage—no. A horse. Ready a horse for me. I will be setting out soon—’<br /> “No, you’re not,” he interjects, his eyebrows scrunched up. “You are the Alpha King. Do you know what it would mean to the Rogues if they took down the head of the whole land? The revolution would be over!”<br /> ‘Fine, I will do it myself.’ I try to push past him but he blocks me. ‘Move out of my way. I need Claudia back here right now.’<br /> He shakes his head, putting a firm hand on my chest. “You’d have to kill me if you want to leave alone.”<br /> Kiernan is one of my oldest friends and most loyal men. We’ve butted heads many times before, but not like this. I can see his quiet anger, and I know from the look in his eyes that he can feel mine. Still, he stands his ground, staring at me like he’s daring me to attack him right now.<br /> And I almost want to. The thought of Claudia getting farther and farther away is tearing my soul apart.<br /> But I take a deep breath to steady myself. ‘You don’t understand.’<br /> “Then make me understand.”<br /> ‘Claudia is important to me,’ I tell him after a pause. ‘The Moon Goddess told me so. She is the Siren and the Alpha’s Voice. I have to get her back or else—’<br /> “Alpha Achilles.”<br /> He signals me to turn around. I see Carlos standing by the end of the stairs, his torso still wrapped in bandages.<br /> However, he’s not alone. Standing next to him are the Housekeeper and the Chief Butler. Both of them are carrying files, laid out as though they’re asking for advice.<br /> ‘What is this?’ I signal to Carlos. ‘I don’t need any interruptions right now. I have somewhere else to go.’<br /> Carlos shakes his head to stop me. “Alpha… today is the Winter Solstice festival. Our pack is hosting. You cannot go anywhere.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 7<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> The journey from Sangria Amori to my hometown feels long and short at the same time. As I sit there in the carriage watching the palace disappear behind a mountain in the distance and begin to see the tall magnolia trees surrounding the famous springs of my home, I can’t help but feel a mixture of longing and relief.<br /> Longing because it’s been my home for years and years. I have made good memories and bonded with amazing people. I overcame a lot of bad things. I met the one I thought I would know forever.<br /> But the relief comes from the loss of all of that. From the knowledge that from now on, I would be free from that palace and everyone in it.<br /> Especially Achilles.<br /> My heart still makes a little flip at the simple thought of his name. I still have to clench my hands and pierce my own palms with my nails to remind myself that I shouldn’t be thinking about him. But thankfully, I don’t have to acknowledge it because the carriage finally stops. The coachman Peter calls out from the front, smacking the carriage door with his cane. “You’re here now, girl. It’s time to move out.”<br /> I gather all my bags and sling them all on my shoulders, slightly struggling with the weight as I climb down the rickety old carriage. “Thank you so much, Peter.”<br /> I give him a happy salute, about to head to the arch that reads Nightshade Springs. But then, I hear him calling out, “Are you sure you’re going to be safe from here on?”<br /> That makes me pause. So far, throughout the whole journey, I haven’t sensed any Rogues at all. But Peter has a point. The infestation of Rogues is very much real and rampant, and I haven’t been to my hometown in five years. I honestly don’t know what’s waiting in store for me here.<br /> But still, I don’t want to bother him. If there is any danger out here, I would rather face it; I know that he has a family.<br /> So I just smile at him. “I got it, Peter. Thank you again and be careful on your way back!”<br /> He looks uncertain, but he leaves anyway, whipping the horses until they gallop faster. Soon enough, he’s gone.<br /> And I’m alone in the middle of the woods, surrounded by the familiar fresh scent of springs and pine.<br /> The scent of home.<br /> A soft smile appears on my face as I start to walk, following the stone path that leads to the edge of the village where the cemetery is.<br /> I suppose it’s a grim thing to start with, but I’ve been meaning to visit my parents’ graves for the past years. Grief and the start of the revolution put a halt to all of that, so now I feel quite happy that I get to see them, even if it’s just this way.<br /> My mom was a maid like I am. Or was. Either way, she served the palace too, specifically as a handmaiden to the former Queen. My dad was a gardener. She died from deadly flu five years ago, and he followed right after.<br /> Back then, I thought this was unfair. How could they leave me in this world alone? I was resentful. But eventually, I realized that it may have been out of love. He was never able to be apart from her for any period of time, and not even death could stop him from chasing after her.<br /> They told me that they met each other at a gathering for servants, and my father fell in love with my mother when he first heard her sing. I honestly can’t blame him. She had the most wonderful voice, and he always said that I had that beautiful voice too. I never really knew if he was just making that up, but the ones who heard me sing also told me that I do have a pretty voice.<br /> The memory brings a smile to my face, and as I approach their graves, I find myself humming along to the tune of my mother’s lullaby.<br /> Their graves are now covered in ivy. I sweep some of the leaves away and light a candle for them.<br /> I sit there for a while, watching the light flicker on their gravestones. I reach out and feel the warmth, opening my mouth to talk to them like I always did, but that’s when something strikes me.<br /> The sour, rotten smell.<br /> My entire body freezes. I shoot to my feet, clutching my bags closer to me as I look around. My heart is beating in my ears and I almost want to whimper, but it only gets worse when I finally see a single Rogue.<br /> It’s hiding behind gravestones in the distance, its eyes gleaming with hunger and malice as they focus on me. Its low growls make the ground hum. There’s tension in the air, thick and suffocating, telling me it’s been stalking me like prey for a while now. It’s still far but ready to spring. Ready to chase and feed.<br /> And I know that if I take one step back, it will come out and kill me.<br /> I slowly exhale, stepping back and feeling it move with me, keeping the distance between us the same.<br /> Bit by bit, I ease my bags off my shoulders and set them down. The eyes of the Rogue follow my movement like two laser pointers. I slip my hand in my pocket, looking for the silver knife that Maia gave me as a parting gift, ready to it down.<br /> As though on cue, the Rogue leaps into the air as soon as I raise the knife.<br /> But I’m ready this time. I don’t come to meet it. Instead, I stand my ground, waiting for the perfect moment. As soon as it flies midair to pounce on me, I duck right under it and run the knife along its throat.<br /> The Rogue falls to the ground with a whimper. It scrambles to get upright again, but before it can do so, I stomp its fragile head flat with my boot, its blood spattering everywhere.<br /> “Thank the gods,” I mutter, but that’s when I realize that I spoke too soon.<br /> As soon as the Rogue stops moving, the forest seems to come alive right before me. More Rogues emerge from the trees, sniffing and snarling, their eyes alight with joy when they see a perfectly good meal severely outnumbered.<br /> All at once, they jump toward me.<br /> A scream breaks out of my lips. I raise my bags to shield myself, but at this point, it’s only a matter of time before they take me down and feast on me. I’m only waiting for the pain now….<br /> But before it can come, I hear loud bangs in the distance. Gunshots. Followed by the loud thuds of the Rogues hitting the ground, dropping like dead flies.<br /> I lower my bags in horror. All the Rogues are dead, their heads bleeding from a single smoking puncture wound between their eyes. I’m about to turn around to see my savior, but then I feel the still-hot muzzle of the gun against my back.<br /> “Drop your knife if you want to live. Who are you and what do you need?”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 8<br /> ACHILLES.<br /> The first thing that rises out of me is not frustration from being told what to do, but embarrassment from forgetting about the big event. I know that Carlos just had a bad injury that he’s still most likely dealing with, but I have a situation on my hands that I just can’t shake off, but I can't help but avert my gaze in shame.<br /> Carlos, Kiernan, and the two head staff are staring at me expectantly, and I just want to sink into the ground and never reappear.<br /> I look over at Kiernan, who gives me a small shrug like he’s telling me that it’s all up to me.<br /> The obvious thing to do is to just delay the festival and focus on the very important task of finding Claudia. But I know that my people are counting on this one single happy day among all the bad ones. They need this. And as much as I need Claudia here with me, they come first.<br /> I take a deep, steadying breath. ‘I apologize. It must have slipped my mind. Prepare the decorations and we shall have a lunch banquet in the throne room.’<br /> Carlos nods and repeats my words to the head staff. Then, he turns back to me and asks, “How about the evening celebrations?”<br /> ‘We’ll see,’ I sign to him.<br /> With that, the head staff both bow and leave. Now it’s only the three of us, and they look pained.<br /> “So what’s been happening?” Carlos splutters at last. “Where are you going?”<br /> Kiernan is the one who answers for him. “He kicked out the maid, Claudia, and now he has to bring her back because the Moon Goddess told him so in a dream. He wants to go out there himself.”<br /> ‘I have to,’ I tell them both. 'I still do, but with the festival..."<br /> And of course, they just look at me like they feel sorry for me. I’m about to tell them both to supervise so I can go, but then Kiernan sighs and says, “I’ll get some of our warriors, and we will go and find her.”<br /> Without giving me a chance to say anything about this, Kiernan leaves. Carlos then looks at me and beckons me to go up the stairs.<br /> “After you, Alpha. Let’s give the people a good celebration.”<br /> * * *<br /> When I arrive at the throne room after changing into my formal suit, it is already decked with blue and silver decorations fit for the winter solstice theme. Food is flowing in, music is playing, and it seems that all the citizens are gathering.<br /> When Carlos and I enter, it takes me a whole while to notice that the throne room isn’t even halfway filled. As I sit on my throne, I see that my people are not eating, drinking, or having fun at all. They are just gathered at the little tables, engaged in serious conversation.<br /> More people are coming in, greeted by the butlers by the door. I keep thinking that this new batch will come and let loose, but they just gather like the rest of the guests.<br /> It’s starting to make me nervous. I agreed to this party thinking it would be best for their morale, but it seems that they’re just as uninterested in the occasion as I was.<br /> ‘This is not going well,’ I tell Carlos, who’s standing on my right side. He’s not fully recovered yet, but he insisted on coming here. ‘It would be best to cut this short.’<br /> As soon as I say those words, guilt starts to drum in my chest. I know that I should try to make things more festive instead of thinking about Claudia, but not knowing how things are on that front is almost as bad as being here and seeing my people feeling blue.<br /> “I think it would be best if you go down and communicate with them personally,” Carlos says, and I can’t believe I never thought of that before.<br /> I get up from my throne with the full intent of going around, but then I see a familiar face by the door. Someone I really don’t want to see.<br /> Alpha Tristan.<br /> He’s still wearing a coat, speckled with snow. The butler tries to take it from him but he pushes him away, which makes me tense up, immediately ready for a fight. However, he’s not alone. Walking behind him like lapdogs are the Alphas of his neighboring packs: Giorgio, Anthony, and Larkin.<br /> Their auras are so domineering and so distracting that the people in the throne room stop what they’re doing and just watch them approach me. But instead of meeting them halfway, I remain standing in front of the throne with the steps of the dais separating us.<br /> None of them bows down to me.<br /> “What are you doing here?” Carlos asks, and it perfectly reflects what’s in my mind, just more polite.<br /> Tristan flashes me a smirk. “We’re here because we’re tired of the preposterous games that Sangria Amori is playing. We need change!”<br /> Even though I can’t hear him, I can feel the vibrations of his scream on the walls and the floor. He’s livid, and because of this, the people in the room are tuning in.<br /> I don’t like the admiring and interested looks on their faces. I look at Carlos. ‘We shouldn’t have this talk here.’<br /> “Alpha Tristan.” Carlos gives him a strained smile, motioning him to come along. “We shall move this conversation to a more private location and perhaps—”<br /> “Get your hands off me.” Tristan pushes past him and squares up to me. “What you’re doing to these people is sickening. Making them show up here, forced to have fun, when they are suffering from problems you would never know about from your high throne. You’re making a mockery of their situation, flaunting your privilege in their faces.”<br /> I want to push him down the steps and pound his face into a pulp, but I restrain myself. Instead, I just sign something that Carlos translates with perfect contempt.<br /> “Get out, right now.”<br /> Tristan only scoffs, facing the people. “Last night, instead of meeting with the rest of the Alphas and coming up with a way to erase the Rogues, Alpha King Achilles was late. He left us on our own when we had a Rogue attack. It’s painfully obvious that his disabilities have made him selfish, and unfit to rule our land.”<br /> This time, my temper gets the best of me. I grab him by the arm with the full intent of punching him in the face as soon as he turns, but I stop when the people gasp.<br /> They’re now looking at me in horror.<br /> I slowly let him go. He starts to walk away, step by step, not taking his eyes off me. There’s a certain gleam in his eyes that I can’t identify, but the hairs on the back of my neck are standing on end.<br /> Only when he’s standing by the door do I know why.<br /> “We will no longer take orders from the Alpha King,” Tristan declares, his gaze still on me. “We will handle the Rogues our way, the right way. And those who want to join us would be offered full protection.”<br /> With that, he leaves.<br /> And I watch in horror as some of my citizens begin to get up from their seats, following him out.<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 9<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> “Don’t shoot me,” I mutter, and I cringe when I hear the fear in my voice. I hate that I faced that single Rogue like a boss only to fold like this. “I’m not a danger to anyone. I’m a local here. I just moved for work at the palace…”<br /> I stop when I realize I’m about to ramble. I just drop the knife. As soon as it clatters on the floor, I feel the muzzle of the gun easing off my back. I take this as a cue to turn around, and I come face to face with a young man about my age, with straw-colored hair and brown eyes. He’s carrying a massive silver shotgun with rounds of big silver bullets around his body.<br /> He’s studying me closely, fixing his flannel shirt. “Who are you?”<br /> “Claudia Hale,” I say shakily. I even bow, which is dumb, but I guess it’s not so stupid if it stops him from shooting me. “I just came here to visit my parents.”<br /> At first, he doesn’t say anything. My nerves are starting to act up and I find myself basically skipping in my spot. But finally, he asks, “Hale, huh? Do you happen to be related to Ruth?”<br /> My eyes go wide. “Yes! Ruth is my cousin.”<br /> The man’s shoulders relax. He cracks a smile, and suddenly he doesn’t seem so scary anymore. “You must be the cousin she talks about a lot. The singer. I’m Max, by the way. Follow me.”<br /> We shake hands, and I can’t help but feel giddy.<br /> My cousin Ruth is here. I can’t believe it. We were very close as kids, even though we only saw each other over the summers. She left Nightshade Springs when we were both eighteen, and the last thing I heard about her was that she got married to a mason from the nearby village. We saw each other at my dad’s funeral, but we didn’t get to talk much because of my own grief.<br /> But now, I’m going to see her. I wonder if she has kids now.<br /> The thought of little babies running around makes me so excited, so much so that I almost forget to follow Max as he leads me out of the cemetery through an unfamiliar path. I quickly pick up the knife and run after him.<br /> I frown as I pull level with Max. "Why are we using this path?"<br /> The moment the question leaves my lips, the answer comes to me when we turn a corner.<br /> For the first time, I come face to face with the aftermath of the Rogue infestation.<br /> The village is now completely deserted. The houses are dilapidated, empty and broken. The smell of Rogues is present, but distant, which tells me that the place is visited frequently but they're not actually here. Dried blood is scattered all over the ground like paint.<br /> "That's animal blood," Max explains, following the direction of my gaze. "We vacated this place a long time ago. We still live in this area, but we decided to stick close together to protect ourselves from the Rogues. We figured that it would be best if we show them a strong front. The Kingdom doesn't really do much for us, so we have to take matters into our own hands."<br /> I swallow hard, averting my gaze as we turn another corner, a hidden path behind a small hill.<br /> "Does the Kingdom not visit the villages at all?" I ask.<br /> Max shakes his head. "Nope. Not at all. They send guards from time to time, but you see how many Rogues there are. You know how violent they can be. We needed weapons to protect ourselves, but they just won't provide that. I think they keep it to themselves, leave everyone else defenseless."<br /> I keep quiet. I don't know what to say. Part of me wants to defend the palace. I mean, I know they have it hard, and Achilles is doing his best. But then again, who am I to dismiss their suffering?<br /> I open my mouth to ask where they got their weapons, but then we arrive at a fenced part of the village. Barbed wires are set on tall metal walls, behind which small compact buildings stand proud.<br /> He opens the gate carefully, and we both enter. There are a couple of villages standing watch, carrying guns similar to his. They stare at me, and I have to lower my head to avoid the intensity of their looks.<br /> I want to tell Max that I just want to see Ruth, but before I can get the question out, I see two people running towards me.<br /> I look up and my heart nearly gives out when I see that it's Ruth, together with a tall bearded man who must be her husband.<br /> "Claudia!" she squeals, and before I can even drop my bags, she scoops me up into a big hug. "You're home! It's been so long!"<br /> I blink the tears away when she lets me go. "I figured it was time to retire and just stay here."<br /> I feel guilty. I lied to Maia and now I'm lying to Ruth.<br /> “You loved that job, but I do understand,” she says, and I can’t help but be thankful that she didn’t press me for more details. “This is my husband, Henry. We live in one of the apartments. You can stay with us if you like, but I think it would be best if you get your own room.”<br /> “It’s nice to meet you,” Henry says, taking my bags from me. “I will take these up to your room.”<br /> I smile. “Thank you so much.”<br /> He and Max leave, and Ruth takes my arm, steering me into a small structure at the foot of one of the buildings. I can hear cheers and smell food from outside, and I find myself relaxing when I see that it’s a pub. Men and women alike are laughing and talking, downing jugs of beer and eating fried food. It’s quite fascinating to see so much life and joy in a single space in this lost land, but I can’t help but feel grateful.<br /> Ruth and I sit on the counter. The bartender slides two jugs of beer and a platter of steaming chips. I grab the chips even though they’re hot, stuffing them all in my mouth and drinking the beer. Everything is strangely fresh, and I can’t help but gobble it all up. Ruth watches me with amusement as she sips her drink.<br /> “Do they not feed you up there?” she jokes, shaking her head. “Honestly, I don’t blame you for going home. It must have been hell there.”<br /> My appetite suddenly vanishes. “Well, it’s not so bad. But nothing like home, yes.” I clear my throat, desperate for a change of topic. “So, Max found me in the cemetery. He’s… an interesting character.”<br /> “I know, he mind-linked it to me.” She shrugs. “Max is kind of an asshole, but I get why. He had to step up as our leader when the palace guards left us. He looted all those guns that we use now, so the only thing we have to forge are bullets. Screw the Kingdom and that deaf-mute idiot who rules it.”<br /> My face goes hot. I want to defend Achilles. I want to tell Ruth not to call him that, but then again, he kicked me out for defending him.<br /> “Is everyone doing the same?” I start to ask, but then a small commotion breaks out in the corner of the pub where the entrance is.<br /> “Hey, keep that bastard out!” I hear some of the men yelling.<br /> “He barged right in and demanded entry!”<br /> “It’s one of those palace fuckers!”<br /> I freeze. Ruth and I both slide out of our stools, looking over at the chaos.<br /> My heart jumps right into my throat when I see Gamma Kiernan trying to force his way inside the pub.<br /> “Bring me Claudia Hale, and we will not have any problems.”<br /> <br /> $Chapter<br /> Chapter 10<br /> CLAUDIA.<br /> Panic takes a hold of me. Suddenly, I feel my entire body going numb. I can feel Ruth beside me and I can hear her saying something, but it’s like my mind is tuning out. All I can hear are muffled voices. All I can feel is my heart hammering inside my ribs like it wants to get out.<br /> I blink a couple of times as we get pushed back by the ongoing commotion. For a moment I’m certain that I’m not seeing things correctly, but I’m wrong.<br /> Gamma Kiernan is really here, and he’s looking for me.<br /> “No way you’re getting in,” the men at the entrance keep telling him. “Pack it up and leave!”<br /> “I will not leave until you bring Claudia Hale here,” he insists. “I can smell her scent in the air. I know you’re hiding her. Back off, and no one gets hurt.”<br /> “How dare you threaten us?”<br /> With that, the chaos ensues. Now there are so many men blocking his way, and soon enough, women are clamoring to shoo him out of the pub too. I can see his expression. I know that he can take these men down if he wants to, but he’s restraining himself.<br /> The urge to step up and show myself before things get ugly overcomes me, but then Ruth wheels around and dunks my head down, preventing me from getting seen.<br /> “Why the hell are they looking for you?” Ruth demands. “Did you do something?”<br /> “No,” I begin to say, but that’s when I feel a strong hand dragging me back.<br /> “Ow!” I complain under my breath, feeling myself getting yanked back into the corner by this strong person. I turn around and see Max. He’s squeezing my arm so hard that I can almost feel the bruises appearing. “Let me go!”<br /> He just glares at me. “You are not going to show yourself to that upstart. You’re going to stay here behind the bar. Understand?”<br /> “No!” I snatch my arm back from him. “Do you want your people to get hurt?”<br /> His eyes flash with anger. “You’re really assuming we’re the ones who’d get hurt? You put too much faith in those men who don’t do anything but sit on their asses and command the lower people to fight for them.”<br /> I realize that he’s referring to the palace royals, including Achilles. His claims are so false that I square up to him, shoving him back. “You have no idea what you’re talking about! Those men risk their lives for us!”<br /> “Maybe for you,” Max growls dryly, “but never for me.”<br /> The next events happen so fast. So much so that I don’t even get the time to react. Max just grabs me by the shoulders, pushes me right into the broom closet, and props a chair against the doorknob to basically lock it from outside. I fall on the floor, flat on my behind, but then I spring up to my feet to try to ram it down.<br /> “Let me out!” I scream, but I doubt anyone would hear me from the absolute meltdown happening outside.<br /> I could shift into my wolf and break the door, but I think I would end up demolishing half the pub in the process. So even though I want to end this, I just stay by the door, pressing my ear against it and listening as best as I can.<br /> That’s when I hear Max announcing, “Silence, everyone. Let the man speak.”<br /> The people immediately shut up, which surprises me. It seems that everyone really recognizes him as their leader. I can almost picture him stepping up to Gamma Kiernan.<br /> “Thank you,” Gamma Kiernan says. “As I was trying to say before I got swarmed, I need Claudia Hale.”<br /> “Why?” Max asks in a calm, almost lazy tone.<br /> “Because the Alpha King says so,” Gamma Kiernan replies in a similar voice. “We don’t want any trouble with the King, do we?”<br /> “Oh, no, we don’t,” Max answers, but this time, he sounds perfectly sarcastic. I can hear the others around him letting out a laugh. “We really don’t. But you see, Claudia isn’t here.”<br /> Silence fills the air. I want to scream at the top of my lungs to alert everyone of my presence, but I’m stunned. Petrified, really. Did the Gamma really say that it’s Alpha Achilles who’s asking for me?<br /> But why? Why would he look for me? It hasn’t even been a day since I left. Does he regret all the things he did, all the things he said to me? Did he realize that I didn’t actually do anything wrong, and he punished me out of pure pride and possibly stupidity?<br /> Now that’s something I want to hear. I want him to say sorry.<br /> I’m about to scream when suddenly, I hear Gamma Kiernan saying, “I can smell her. Do not fucking lie to me.”<br /> Somehow, I’m able to sense something about to go wrong before it even transpires. I make a move to ram the door down before things can break out, but it’s too late.<br /> Before I can even do anything, I hear Max saying in a low voice, “Deal with this bastard.”<br /> And then, hell breaks loose.<br /> It’s so loud I can almost see it. The men in the pub all yell for battle and the sounds that follow root me to my spot. More screams. Thuds from bodies hitting the floor and the walls. Broken glass. Snapping wood. Arrows whizzing. Wolves howling. Gunshots. So many gunshots….<br /> Soon enough, the smell of blood fills the air, and my heart nearly stops.<br /> It seems to go on forever, the sound and the smell and the carnage. I can make out specific voices like Gamma Kiernan’s, telling his men to stand down and leave. I can hear Max telling his people to pursue them, to drive them back and make sure they learn their lesson. On and on and on it goes.<br /> But just when I think that it’s never going to end, silence follows.<br /> It’s almost eerie. One can hear a pin drop. Who got shot? Did anyone die?<br /> The thought of death because of me is what finally breaks me. I ram down the door without shifting into my wolf form, but when I arrive at the bar, it’s too late. I can hear the sound of horses whinnying outside, their hooves hitting the ground in loud thuds as they run fast. I see the flash of the red carriage through the broken windows.<br /> I look all over the floor to see if anyone has fallen, but aside from the smears of blood, it seems that everyone made it out alive.<br /> At least, from this party.<br /> I don’t know if I can say the same about the people from the palace.<br /> Suddenly, Max enters the pub, sporting a broken nose. He tears off a piece of his shirt and uses it to dab on the blood, but I march toward him and snatch it right out of his hand. “What did you do?”<br /> “Showed them that they have no business here,” he says simply, taking the strip of fabric back from me. “The only thing I should be hearing from you is thank you, unless…”<br /> Everyone in the pub looks at me.<br /> Ruth is the one who gets up and turns to me. “What did you do, Claudia? Why are they looking for you?”<br /> Max crosses his arms. "Give us a good reason why we shouldn't kick you out of here. Now." | Joylit Novel | 176 | https://facebook.com/61550512629703 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846800 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446611 | 1735168093 | 890 | 1426859107917810 | 4 | 1.0750287970217E+15 | 1715065200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120206467056180695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1712240564 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434887251_3273516259616813_4965928032027185860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ITie4m6mDmcQ7kNvgF39Sy7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAcTA20T57nzysouEuK_o7pZp3Y0XqyL2fgucP3yDHGEg&oe=6663EDC2 | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434948003_814909497119687_9211098532922127326_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x7WiDOdWsTYQ7kNvgESVFnJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBulFosd9SXN4G0tMRKNSznqK_fnZdYowVwZ6iongagTg&oe=66640C13 | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846801 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446611 | 1735168093 | 890 | 1426859107917810 | 4 | 1.0750287970217E+15 | 1715065200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120206467056180695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1712240564 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434887251_3273516259616813_4965928032027185860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ITie4m6mDmcQ7kNvgF39Sy7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAcTA20T57nzysouEuK_o7pZp3Y0XqyL2fgucP3yDHGEg&oe=6663EDC2 | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434948003_814909497119687_9211098532922127326_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x7WiDOdWsTYQ7kNvgESVFnJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBulFosd9SXN4G0tMRKNSznqK_fnZdYowVwZ6iongagTg&oe=66640C13 | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846802 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446611 | 1735168093 | 890 | 1426859107917810 | 4 | 1.0750287970217E+15 | 1715065200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120206467056180695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1712240564 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434887251_3273516259616813_4965928032027185860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ITie4m6mDmcQ7kNvgF39Sy7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAcTA20T57nzysouEuK_o7pZp3Y0XqyL2fgucP3yDHGEg&oe=6663EDC2 | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434948003_814909497119687_9211098532922127326_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x7WiDOdWsTYQ7kNvgESVFnJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBulFosd9SXN4G0tMRKNSznqK_fnZdYowVwZ6iongagTg&oe=66640C13 | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846809 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446611 | 1735168093 | 890 | 1426859107917810 | 4 | 1.0750287970217E+15 | 1715065200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120206467056180695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1712240564 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434887251_3273516259616813_4965928032027185860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ITie4m6mDmcQ7kNvgF39Sy7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAcTA20T57nzysouEuK_o7pZp3Y0XqyL2fgucP3yDHGEg&oe=6663EDC2 | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434948003_814909497119687_9211098532922127326_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x7WiDOdWsTYQ7kNvgESVFnJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBulFosd9SXN4G0tMRKNSznqK_fnZdYowVwZ6iongagTg&oe=66640C13 | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846810 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446611 | 1735168094 | 890 | 1426859107917810 | 4 | 1.0750287970217E+15 | 1715065200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120206467056180695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1712240564 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434887251_3273516259616813_4965928032027185860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ITie4m6mDmcQ7kNvgF39Sy7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAcTA20T57nzysouEuK_o7pZp3Y0XqyL2fgucP3yDHGEg&oe=6663EDC2 | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434948003_814909497119687_9211098532922127326_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x7WiDOdWsTYQ7kNvgESVFnJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBulFosd9SXN4G0tMRKNSznqK_fnZdYowVwZ6iongagTg&oe=66640C13 | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846812 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446611 | 1735168094 | 890 | 1426859107917810 | 4 | 1.0750287970217E+15 | 1715065200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120206467056180695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1712240564 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434887251_3273516259616813_4965928032027185860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ITie4m6mDmcQ7kNvgF39Sy7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAcTA20T57nzysouEuK_o7pZp3Y0XqyL2fgucP3yDHGEg&oe=6663EDC2 | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434948003_814909497119687_9211098532922127326_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x7WiDOdWsTYQ7kNvgESVFnJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBulFosd9SXN4G0tMRKNSznqK_fnZdYowVwZ6iongagTg&oe=66640C13 | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846825 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446612 | 1735168094 | 890 | 7211722455548997 | 1 | 1.4664909439432E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100365976129594 | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | 120207063848550257 | play.google.com | Play game | NONE | video | Match-3 to defeat evil🔥 | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.global.pnck | 1712056544 | 1.0036597612959E+14 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434605656_419874240585565_8831728975399670590_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=u9NEgRuaLWQQ7kNvgF3GVi_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDKLIrkkqZU_eTETjvXCLDtbTVW4exZrILnyH2OCgD7PQ&oe=6663FFE0 | person_profile | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434565648_329443819746459_6697213341475881961_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WXma8jhSDPQQ7kNvgEL5Shx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBQSBky0OZSsnA4tj-glQj5I3JKCARVxeLdRAiyg4h3GQ&oe=66640ED8 | 0 | 3 | We've brought the trailer to life!💁♂️ Do you have strategic skills?😏 | Puzzles & Chaos | 13312 | https://facebook.com/PuzzlesAndChaos | 0 | PLAY_GAME | 1712041200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846814 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446612 | 1735168094 | 890 | 1426859107917810 | 4 | 1.0750287970217E+15 | 1715065200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120206467056180695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1712240564 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434887251_3273516259616813_4965928032027185860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ITie4m6mDmcQ7kNvgF39Sy7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAcTA20T57nzysouEuK_o7pZp3Y0XqyL2fgucP3yDHGEg&oe=6663EDC2 | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434948003_814909497119687_9211098532922127326_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x7WiDOdWsTYQ7kNvgESVFnJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBulFosd9SXN4G0tMRKNSznqK_fnZdYowVwZ6iongagTg&oe=66640C13 | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846815 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446612 | 1735168094 | 890 | 1426859107917810 | 4 | 1.0750287970217E+15 | 1715065200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120206467056180695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1712240564 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434887251_3273516259616813_4965928032027185860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ITie4m6mDmcQ7kNvgF39Sy7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAcTA20T57nzysouEuK_o7pZp3Y0XqyL2fgucP3yDHGEg&oe=6663EDC2 | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434948003_814909497119687_9211098532922127326_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x7WiDOdWsTYQ7kNvgESVFnJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBulFosd9SXN4G0tMRKNSznqK_fnZdYowVwZ6iongagTg&oe=66640C13 | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846816 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446612 | 1735168094 | 890 | 1426859107917810 | 4 | 1.0750287970217E+15 | 1715065200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120206467056180695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1712240564 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434887251_3273516259616813_4965928032027185860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ITie4m6mDmcQ7kNvgF39Sy7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAcTA20T57nzysouEuK_o7pZp3Y0XqyL2fgucP3yDHGEg&oe=6663EDC2 | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434948003_814909497119687_9211098532922127326_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x7WiDOdWsTYQ7kNvgESVFnJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBulFosd9SXN4G0tMRKNSznqK_fnZdYowVwZ6iongagTg&oe=66640C13 | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846817 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446612 | 1735168094 | 890 | 1426859107917810 | 4 | 1.0750287970217E+15 | 1715065200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120206467056180695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1712240564 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434887251_3273516259616813_4965928032027185860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ITie4m6mDmcQ7kNvgF39Sy7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAcTA20T57nzysouEuK_o7pZp3Y0XqyL2fgucP3yDHGEg&oe=6663EDC2 | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434948003_814909497119687_9211098532922127326_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x7WiDOdWsTYQ7kNvgESVFnJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBulFosd9SXN4G0tMRKNSznqK_fnZdYowVwZ6iongagTg&oe=66640C13 | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846818 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446612 | 1735168094 | 890 | 1426859107917810 | 4 | 1.0750287970217E+15 | 1715065200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120206467056180695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1712240564 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434887251_3273516259616813_4965928032027185860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ITie4m6mDmcQ7kNvgF39Sy7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAcTA20T57nzysouEuK_o7pZp3Y0XqyL2fgucP3yDHGEg&oe=6663EDC2 | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434948003_814909497119687_9211098532922127326_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x7WiDOdWsTYQ7kNvgESVFnJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBulFosd9SXN4G0tMRKNSznqK_fnZdYowVwZ6iongagTg&oe=66640C13 | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846826 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446612 | 1735168094 | 890 | 1597748514315218 | 1 | 9.6631521161215E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100365976129594 | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | 120207063844340257 | play.google.com | Play game | NONE | video | GATHER HEROES | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.global.pnck | 1712056478 | 1.0036597612959E+14 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434022498_1325774881424635_2186045114328719124_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fAkWM3-fg9oQ7kNvgEVBZkb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCF_YrT-7DS6P-IBYQzcP58XMezXVzKMW63OiTNZfcljA&oe=6663EA35 | person_profile | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434019373_1626038424818952_6874573626596794759_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3hkoiKN57iwQ7kNvgEbgzls&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD3KE1s-fNecBmqfYSkTmj_CQlQBG_0E7SVkVulbYZCKA&oe=6663FB84 | 0 | 3 | 🦇An arcane world to explore Repulse evil and safeguard your homeland! | Puzzles & Chaos | 13312 | https://facebook.com/PuzzlesAndChaos | 0 | PLAY_GAME | 1712041200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846819 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446612 | 1735168094 | 890 | 1426859107917810 | 4 | 1.0750287970217E+15 | 1715065200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120206467056180695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1712240564 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434887251_3273516259616813_4965928032027185860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ITie4m6mDmcQ7kNvgF39Sy7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAcTA20T57nzysouEuK_o7pZp3Y0XqyL2fgucP3yDHGEg&oe=6663EDC2 | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434948003_814909497119687_9211098532922127326_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x7WiDOdWsTYQ7kNvgESVFnJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBulFosd9SXN4G0tMRKNSznqK_fnZdYowVwZ6iongagTg&oe=66640C13 | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846820 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446612 | 1735168094 | 890 | 1426859107917810 | 4 | 1.0750287970217E+15 | 1715065200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120206467056180695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1712240564 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434887251_3273516259616813_4965928032027185860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ITie4m6mDmcQ7kNvgF39Sy7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAcTA20T57nzysouEuK_o7pZp3Y0XqyL2fgucP3yDHGEg&oe=6663EDC2 | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434948003_814909497119687_9211098532922127326_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x7WiDOdWsTYQ7kNvgESVFnJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBulFosd9SXN4G0tMRKNSznqK_fnZdYowVwZ6iongagTg&oe=66640C13 | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846821 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446612 | 1735168095 | 890 | 1426859107917810 | 4 | 1.0750287970217E+15 | 1715065200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120206467056180695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1712240564 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434887251_3273516259616813_4965928032027185860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ITie4m6mDmcQ7kNvgF39Sy7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAcTA20T57nzysouEuK_o7pZp3Y0XqyL2fgucP3yDHGEg&oe=6663EDC2 | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434948003_814909497119687_9211098532922127326_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x7WiDOdWsTYQ7kNvgESVFnJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBulFosd9SXN4G0tMRKNSznqK_fnZdYowVwZ6iongagTg&oe=66640C13 | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846822 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446612 | 1735168095 | 890 | 777034797412062 | 1 | 8.3085824886508E+14 | 1713250800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 104585012734764 | 0 | Fly-X-Treme | 120210074916090230 | amazon.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Fly-X-Treme | https://www.amazon.com/Bug-Gun-Hunting-Crossbow-Fly-X-Treme/dp/B0BRSCQXRL | 1712074943 | 1.0458501273476E+14 | Fly-X-Treme | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434658383_779273704157771_1017928527428056867_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MpAKlKxw0hQQ7kNvgHE1Tbn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAFC4Jl1lr24ZUE98CZujLkC51HzY7jmgVCqiLNWl97Jw&oe=6663DDE3 | person_profile | 0 | Fly X-Treme | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434757941_1336269613737071_3889460656451262129_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=O1FB4YcbRm8Q7kNvgFSm4Iz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCKNceSz-BM2FsFs1tL7Cs0xHJLBjBKquGFXkyVWXqAQw&oe=6663E3B0 | 0 | 3 | Get your bug-shooting game on point with our Crossbow 🎯 Improve your bug-shooting skills with our Crossbow Bug Pistol, which is ideal for both target practice and hunting. ⚡ <br /> Don't wait to purchase yours; it will elevate your shooting experience to unprecedented heights! | Fly-X-Treme | 403 | https://facebook.com/100095261450512 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1712041200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846823 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446612 | 1735168096 | 890 | 340889812301167 | 1 | 1.688994344959E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100365976129594 | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | 120207063860930257 | play.google.com | Play game | NONE | video | HEAD-ON CONFRONTATION | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.global.pnck | 1712056495 | 1.0036597612959E+14 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434426176_271814722644057_5902529467878334776_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RHZjwkLUeB4Q7kNvgETtdH5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD96FoUZAsRvZMkQI_iZtvSxmYP5fVmeQ6xPxe7FY7FTw&oe=6663E55D | person_profile | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434031940_389351653911100_1321867642699559227_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KSst4WgQzrkQ7kNvgHG6uJp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYARw4f-cY8krXcBN1Nd9REx6WPUWiUf5STjzKjjyRCEyQ&oe=666400BB | 0 | 3 | ⚠Your allies have called you out! Match pieces to awaken heroes. | Puzzles & Chaos | 13312 | https://facebook.com/PuzzlesAndChaos | 0 | PLAY_GAME | 1712041200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846824 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446612 | 1735168096 | 890 | 3754279928192839 | 1 | 8.5036508350231E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100365976129594 | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | 120207063849310257 | play.google.com | Play game | NONE | video | The winter is coming! | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.global.pnck | 1712056480 | 1.0036597612959E+14 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434455319_398901959570067_1737822551755624190_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QEz4Mfx4RDsQ7kNvgH2D9Zu&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDjrEvlf-XoW4dDf8sBW-dGlOG5eGimVAbrlkCBCVM0QQ&oe=66641118 | person_profile | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434412445_1078878469891943_1446259329779674907_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=c8rWolQYPOIQ7kNvgHPbghX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDxWptm8jvJFy7M9ZLlYh2_W2T5c5lpXLtRocNNSK5MnQ&oe=6663FAED | 0 | 3 | 💪Can you defend the white walkers? | Puzzles & Chaos | 13312 | https://facebook.com/PuzzlesAndChaos | 0 | PLAY_GAME | 1712041200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846829 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446612 | 1735168096 | 890 | 1799227377245336 | 1 | 1.1599801553558E+15 | 1713682800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 104585012734764 | 0 | Fly-X-Treme | 120210028913100230 | www.amazon.com | Shop now | NONE | video | Fly-X-Treme | https://www.amazon.com/Bug-Gun-Hunting-Crossbow-Fly-X-Treme/dp/B0BRSCQXRL | 1711987807 | 1.0458501273476E+14 | Fly-X-Treme | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434655650_342318988312537_7244442246725306427_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nIeqMRC6XD4Q7kNvgFFRRUK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB-S2pG_-2qC3txhlrswDg5BpVz_rCn7kbPTLL7pIWhrw&oe=6663E10A | person_profile | 0 | Fly X-Treme | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434663252_1348622592488168_5547621506637095475_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2cpIr4AxqXkQ7kNvgGxVvpz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC1tPiex_weRncO1Kvhew2WKD-H7DRAg9jmpVg8r7y5yQ&oe=6663F652 | 0 | 3 | Crossbow Bug Pistol: This bug shooter gun was designed with the purist fly hunter in mind. | Fly-X-Treme | 403 | https://facebook.com/100095261450512 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1711954800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846830 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446612 | 1735168097 | 890 | 428557703053927 | 1 | 9.4327061071042E+14 | 1712991600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 104585012734764 | 0 | Fly-X-Treme | 120210028912940230 | amazon.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Fly-X-Treme | https://www.amazon.com/Bug-Gun-Hunting-Crossbow-Fly-X-Treme/dp/B0BRSCQXRL | 1711987776 | 1.0458501273476E+14 | Fly-X-Treme | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433938486_1068317747588691_7857533211947872551_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-knQkUz_MOsQ7kNvgHo5cAG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC-XBobe7LJKgInJ-VvYVRzo71ssNf6KWJXSzaYShLg9Q&oe=6663EE3C | person_profile | 0 | Fly X-Treme | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433978233_435205528896831_4889863027554401621_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kAFM0-zGaQkQ7kNvgHS_ab_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYABlgfnVhcPMydR0IfyXQcO1F_b0mrPVBXLOcr7lXv-1w&oe=6663F625 | 0 | 3 | Crossbow Bug Pistol: This bug shooter gun was designed with the purist fly hunter in mind. | Fly-X-Treme | 403 | https://facebook.com/100095261450512 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1711954800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846831 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446612 | 1735168097 | 890 | 956306979040064 | 1 | 1.491373225138E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 104585012734764 | 0 | Fly-X-Treme | 120210028912980230 | amazon.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Fly-X-Treme | https://www.amazon.com/Bug-Gun-Hunting-Crossbow-Fly-X-Treme/dp/B0BRSCQXRL | 1711987776 | 1.0458501273476E+14 | Fly-X-Treme | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433908866_7194219307340711_4650076348565346822_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZaTj6n698lYQ7kNvgGvaeDp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDYPO0Srktczd16m9dcgxTyHmwL66DGcyBiaHOxrBjAdg&oe=6663E09D | person_profile | 0 | Fly X-Treme | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434073197_1793748224440725_7208763574582616426_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ml8Mbd6CkAQQ7kNvgHJVYhD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDcu0ExeLXj1YHSD_j4UQy1WsaUXY3m2EdYSuC_mG9FJA&oe=6663E634 | 0 | 3 | Crossbow Bug Pistol: This bug shooter gun was designed with the purist fly hunter in mind. | Fly-X-Treme | 403 | https://facebook.com/100095261450512 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1711954800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846832 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446612 | 1735168097 | 890 | 1129665988458312 | 1 | 1.1501041759833E+15 | 1712300400 | ig_ads_identity | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 1 | 256873224171942 | 0 | sl_crossbros | 6550479891443 | youtube.com | Learn more | NONE | video | https://youtube.com/watch?v=JDYv8Hverbo&si=wn-ww2TNgYJQMe2y | 1711785440 | 2.5687322417194E+14 | sl_crossbros | https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.2885-19/429977291_962235642000042_7148833336457099679_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s200x200&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=3fd06f&_nc_aid=0&_nc_ohc=2EFVMNShFAIQ7kNvgGQqI_H&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=00_AYCChfSo_WJO2HExaxEdMztoOUrexiIAfQDqjlKYchSpQA&oe=6663FD4A | ig_ads_identity | 1 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431588081_439167495237000_2682423639139838425_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KYPOoym1zu8Q7kNvgGlfBiP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA0iSnLBjhwsA5EoA-EBhRdvxpc2uxhpYIUuj3TEQi0jw&oe=666400A0 | 0 | 3 | FULL VIDEO ON YOUTUBE <br /> <br /> #crossbows #crossbow #archery #crossbow #bow #hunting #outdoors #crossbowlife #crossbowking #crossbowman #crossbowhunter #crossbowshooting #bow #bowhunter #archerylife #archeryhunting #crossbowcustoms #survivalist #ekarchery #archeryaddict #beararchery | sl_crossbros | 0 | https://www.instagram.com/_u/sl_crossbros | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711782000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846835 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446612 | 1735168098 | 890 | 444428331381098 | 1 | 1.1133600500083E+15 | 1711782000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 217316998627741 | 0 | Frost & Flame：King of Avalon | 120207741420890751 | itunes.apple.com | Install now | NONE | video | Play for FREE! | http://itunes.apple.com/app/id1084930849 | 1711625600 | 2.1731699862774E+14 | Frost & Flame：King of Avalon | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433465642_441333268235000_1045342548688800526_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wc_dg0pE9tYQ7kNvgHUMCGE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAXmQEY7Q-hsJm5wp_9NtiF6DzvfD5crHx9Gr4iv5d5ZA&oe=6663E872 | person_profile | 0 | King of Avalon | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433001707_388964577225473_6529973119484621965_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GCKDaTTPPXUQ7kNvgF_1HUu&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDKFZD2ubvl0us4RojmnbfTXaer1wSNJrDCv3w-MIo7Aw&oe=6663F9F1 | 0 | 3 | That Game Everyone's Playing! Join Now! | Frost & Flame：King of Avalon | 1213145 | https://facebook.com/koadw | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1711609200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846836 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446612 | 1735168099 | 890 | 7370421312993641 | 1 | 4.4646573570919E+15 | 1712559600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 641086812686708 | 0 | Alimentation Bali | 120207388876420010 | swishairtime.info | Learn more | NONE | video | Tap the "Get Offer" button to seize your offer immediately. 👇 | You are one of the lucky three thousand people who have been selected to receive a Ravin R29 Crossbow for only $10. This is an incredible opportunity that you should not miss out on, and we encourage you to take advantage of it immediately. | https://swishairtime.info/mCvLuIyCpKz.php?qKuEzYg=BvP7v5dDKPCoGKFg8VfI&ad_id={{ad.id}}&campaign_name={{campaign.name}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&placement={{placement}}&site_source_name={{site_source_name}}&fbpxl={{fbpxl}} | 1711664977 | 6.4108681268671E+14 | Alimentation Bali | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433211909_3781496832173069_3311809168208155146_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kFU5ogV3fcYQ7kNvgEyuHrn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDcsCAcEGsELkAV3VsTrR4sBWHULt-q2jVniGhMMuPueg&oe=66640D70 | person_profile | 0 | Alimentation Bali | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433120391_783906846579083_1141327993269507309_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=U41NI4yLRq4Q7kNvgGFzebZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD8fFTDTgP3QLBCZ_FpliEeM97adFH2NjGd-MEo-zHDtw&oe=6663F66D | 0 | 3 | If you're reading this, 😱<br /> Celebrate your success! You're among the fortunate 3,000 individuals who have secured a Ravin R29 Crossbow for just $10 in our giveaway, 🥳 | Alimentation Bali | 83 | https://facebook.com/100054507427553 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711609200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846838 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446612 | 1735168100 | 890 | 440143275204495 | 1 | 3.8939665401791E+14 | 1712214000 | ig_ads_identity | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 1 | 105652425201417 | 0 | geekpire_official | 120209054089900454 | instagram.com | Visit Instagram profile | NONE | image | http://instagram.com/geekpire_official | 1711598514 | 1.0565242520142E+14 | geekpire_official | https://scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.2885-19/230556229_972583996923335_3024290080248920440_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s200x200&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=3fd06f&_nc_ohc=4YXTOMNdHtQQ7kNvgEdcghP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com&oh=00_AYCxc4f8z8ck_mvVcH5efG39K48gpiQMmOr_1mfGYMABMQ&oe=6663F020 | ig_ads_identity | 1 | GeekPire | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434413605_1635832377226717_6599696456591005118_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jy2riOPVKSEQ7kNvgFxH8DI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBeV9_0FV9zcAjppULYga_Rrzih1QvXomq7Gv8sotu6HQ&oe=6663E9FC | 0 | 3 | Two rouge survivors of the Great War within the story of our campaign featuring a rugged and eccentric but smart dwarven artificer named Belrin and his modified clockwork warforge companion Baxter. With Belrin’s ingenuity and near limitless arsenal of tools and weapons including a powerful mechanical ballista bolt crossbow with dwarven tonal architecture magics used within the myrthil metal bowstring, to increase the vibrational frequency of arrows, allowing them to partially phase through armour, duplicate via quantum entanglement between arrow heads, manifesting an infinite number of arrows, alongside explosive arrows, acid, arrows, frost arrows and lightning arrows, Berlin is also armed with a flintlock pistol, a seismic wave emitting tuning fork, explosives his trusty pick axe and his hulking mechanical companion Baxter armed with an arm cannon, bladed limbs and a shield, not to mention Baxter’s stoic and reserved demeanour is quite the contrast to Belrin’s chaotic and eccentric personality, the two make for an unexpected but formidable duo. A great thanks to @freirearts for your work on this project and a pleasure working with you as always. #dnd #dnd5e #dndart #dndartwork #dndcampaign #dndcampaignart #dndartwork #dnddwarf #dwarf #artificer #dndartificer #warforged #warforgedart #artist #fantasy #fantasyart #fantasyartwork #dungeonsanddragons #characterart #characterartwork #fantasynovel | geekpire_official | 0 | https://www.instagram.com/_u/geekpire_official | 0 | VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE | 1711522800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846839 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446612 | 1735168101 | 890 | 1125513215240159 | 1 | 8.4535833093853E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100365976129594 | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | 120206829171340257 | play.google.com | Play game | NONE | video | How good is your math? | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.global.pnck | 1711598214 | 1.0036597612959E+14 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434215893_1113643969839796_7807742451255371640_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fWrNmPgkWNMQ7kNvgGdUtXs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDPAdZO-C5XVvyZKLljTSiCyI4uSP99ufeZEpsWRSkoaA&oe=66640D3A | person_profile | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434203273_1160640518185605_3920470166629187477_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QEO08rhD5AAQ7kNvgFhePN1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCyLgKOBtYgclPKD_gDOStn_JiKS2keIqmkQ5bNaXcGvA&oe=66640D70 | 0 | 3 | Every decision matters. 🧮<br /> Try it yourself! | Puzzles & Chaos | 13312 | https://facebook.com/PuzzlesAndChaos | 0 | PLAY_GAME | 1711522800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846841 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446612 | 1735168101 | 890 | 2649467881887070 | 2 | 2.7569898477756E+15 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 181760488365196 | 0 | Devices for work | 120207730854630126 | ridermiseri.info | Get offer | NONE | video | Tap the "Get Offer" button to seize your offer immediately. 👇 | https://ridermiseri.info/mCvLuIyCpKz.php?qKuEzYg=tBvBWazjmFpYTEwnf7DD&ad_id={{ad.id}}&campaign_name={{campaign.name}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&placement={{placement}}&fbclid={{fbclid}}&site_source_name={{site_source_name}}&ids=KIyg7d | 1711435571 | 1.817604883652E+14 | Devices for work | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433842562_1362745041066287_189163946256304676_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=iQ59W---C6kQ7kNvgH7vWn7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD26uOJugsGZEe-6ZfwGFQExYniD54Q8viCGEPVjfRpgQ&oe=66640A64 | person_profile | 0 | Devices for work | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434140343_1654282735107254_7407386334183254158_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ExLKamYXlI4Q7kNvgHlLBFy&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD52YzNdGKO65GWCe0W8BeG5fDxCVHExvzy6UhOWFgBNQ&oe=6663E24B | 0 | 3 | If you're reading this, 😱<br /> Celebrate your success! You're among the fortunate 3,000 individuals who have secured a TenPoint Nitro 505 for just $10 in our giveaway,,, 🥳 | Devices for work | 808 | https://facebook.com/61556081113592 | 0 | GET_OFFER_VIEW | 1711436400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846842 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446612 | 1735168102 | 890 | 3800277893588897 | 1 | 9.3869734427434E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 142623199141456 | 0 | K.A.Tucker (Author) | 6581508493968 | amazon.com | Learn more | NONE | image | FREE IN KINDLE UNLIMITED! 🔥 | Free in Kindle Unlimited | https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08YD7GY64/ | 1709389451 | 1.4262319914146E+14 | K.A.Tucker (Author) | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/429768682_908889890741860_9111157815245272451_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QHfoIuDif60Q7kNvgGrLYPK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYATkd6q5aMs4BPwp901ARNz4MFraecrttf7zMNGBIccOg&oe=6663F5EB | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | I wake, gasping for air. <br /> A deep throb pains my lungs. <br /> The floor beneath me is soft and dewy, the ceiling above a blanket of darkness. It takes me a moment to realize I’m lying in grass, under a night sky.<br /> And a few more moments to remember Sofie driving that horn into my chest.<br /> My heart races as I draw my hand to where my body aches, expecting to find the object still protruding. Nothing but tenderness remains. “What did you do to me?” I mutter, my voice hoarse.<br /> Obviously, I didn’t die, but it sure feels like she tried to kill me. <br /> With a wince, I pull myself into a sitting position. And frown at the billow of material around me, confusion scrambling my thoughts. My jeans and sweater are gone, replaced by this enormous dress, with layers of silk and a plunging neckline. She stabbed me and then changed me into formal wear? <br /> I hold up my hand. Even in the darkness, I can make out the outline of the ring Sofie slipped onto my finger, the one she believes will somehow protect me. <br /> I don’t have time to make sense of this. I need to get the hell out of here. <br /> I heave myself off the wet ground, stumbling a few steps before I regain my balance, my head swimming. Walls of cedar hedge tower over me on either side, forming a long, narrow corridor that gives me only two options—left or right.<br /> Shouts ring in the distance—I can’t gauge how far away, but they’re definitely coming from my left. They’re male in timbre, interspersed with clangs of metal against metal. In the air, the smell of smoke lingers. Something burns.<br /> I take off in the opposite direction of the commotion, sprinting as fast as the darkness and the throb in my chest allows, stumbling in the tangle of bulky material swirling around my legs and a pair of wobbly heeled shoes. By the time the hedge opens into a cobblestone pathway lit with lanterns, I’m panting, my lungs heaving from strain, and I’m ready to tear the skirts from my body. <br /> The moon is full and casting white light where I could not see it before, buried within the cedar. Is this the garden Sofie was talking about? The one with the soldiers, where I’ll find the stone? I’m definitely in a garden. There are bushes with roses the size of my palm, their potent fragrance melding with the stench of smoke. The air hints at a warm summer night. Wherever Islor is, it must be far south of Belgium. <br /> Blocks of jagged broken stone are strewn across the pathway ahead, as if something was demolished. Among the disarray, a shiny object gleams in the moonlight. Curious, I navigate around the debris to collect it. It’s an arrowhead, much like the ones Sofie’s guards had in their crossbow, only a brilliant silver.<br /> And it’s drenched in someone’s blood.<br /> <br /> FREE IN KINDLE UNLIMITED FOR A LIMITED TIME | K.A.Tucker (Author) | 40715 | https://facebook.com/K.A.Tucker.Author | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711350000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846843 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446612 | 1735168102 | 890 | 3604116899899991 | 20 | 4.2983514283568E+14 | 1711177200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 248588431673618 | 0 | Milton Caprisa | 120208784351650248 | msnddxm.shop | Shop now | NONE | video | http://msnddxm.shop/ | 1711191384 | 2.4858843167362E+14 | Milton Caprisa | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433238266_1720061161851228_7213279926746089482_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pbg967oB5zkQ7kNvgFXuBmZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAGHSqm_uXUzhYnWke3W3JlXTql7kpMPS5ZTI3hplfZzw&oe=6663F49C | person_profile | 0 | Milton Caprisa | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433229985_368630112806154_6603790424657153261_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MWeNFFJcuDEQ7kNvgFIUo9z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC8GwYDssmT-oombSgKsNITS3Z_RKHSUP46JKGojx720Q&oe=6663F4B6 | 0 | 3 | 🏹️The best hunting crossbow comes from generations of hard work developing the most cutting-edge technology to produce the fastest crossbow on the market. | Milton Caprisa | 5 | https://facebook.com/61557439433681 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1711177200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846844 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446612 | 1735168102 | 890 | 1349117235662318 | 4 | 1.4906110848375E+15 | 1716620400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 202204112986379 | 0 | Surprise Savings | 120205991251720575 | swishairtime.info | Learn more | NONE | video | Tap the "Get Offer" button to seize your offer immediately. 👇 | https://swishairtime.info/mCvLuIyCpKz.php?qKuEzYg=BvP7v5dDKPCoGKFg8VfI&ad_id=%7B%7Bad.id%7D%7D&campaign_name=%7B%7Bcampaign.name%7D%7D&ad_name=%7B%7Bad.name%7D%7D&adset_name=%7B%7Badset.name%7D%7D&placement=%7B%7Bplacement%7D%7D&site_source_name=%7B%7Bsite_source_name%7D%7D&fbpxl=%7B%7Bfbpxl%7D%7D | 1710795081 | 2.0220411298638E+14 | Surprise Savings | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432472530_1622213328588533_8248215330437726772_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lYOg5EiT0JEQ7kNvgERFT-0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDvoJHtIi7hiVpBnyyZKCrry_XHLeZr8TatE4r828H0sQ&oe=666409C1 | person_profile | 0 | Surprise Savings | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433532258_781148220567003_5059582937767300576_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z--JzUz9TXwQ7kNvgHx9Gk9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB2oNZ2b13NQggfqyYGmduvbZJlVIQ_e0YCTc_l1VZZYA&oe=66640A4E | 0 | 3 | If you're reading this, 😱<br /> Celebrate your success! You're among the fortunate 3,000 individuals who have secured a Ravin R29 Crossbow for just $10 in our giveaway, 🥳 | Surprise Savings | 132 | https://facebook.com/61557395454560 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711090800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846845 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446612 | 1735168102 | 890 | 1348360672492527 | 2 | 6.2641737964214E+14 | 1711177200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120205964712910695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1711125624 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433684869_457092449981648_3407831440630043047_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vdgH8MET4DoQ7kNvgEkqJ58&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA8OIpSfPQ80zQkaZRIX3q5iD6UByTodITwGJcdx6zWnA&oe=6663EE1C | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433545868_283000594837085_6561487442196160306_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yvXE2Vk-7WcQ7kNvgEXCk-b&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBdQRjOslElJgzuB1KVaGLdv3mRYZu_snD_7exSRYrbCQ&oe=666409AA | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711090800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846846 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446612 | 1735168102 | 890 | 1348360672492527 | 2 | 6.2641737964214E+14 | 1711177200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120205964712910695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1711125624 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433684869_457092449981648_3407831440630043047_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vdgH8MET4DoQ7kNvgEkqJ58&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA8OIpSfPQ80zQkaZRIX3q5iD6UByTodITwGJcdx6zWnA&oe=6663EE1C | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433545868_283000594837085_6561487442196160306_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yvXE2Vk-7WcQ7kNvgEXCk-b&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBdQRjOslElJgzuB1KVaGLdv3mRYZu_snD_7exSRYrbCQ&oe=666409AA | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711090800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846847 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446613 | 1735168102 | 890 | 1348360672492527 | 2 | 6.2641737964214E+14 | 1711177200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120205964712910695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1711125624 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433684869_457092449981648_3407831440630043047_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vdgH8MET4DoQ7kNvgEkqJ58&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA8OIpSfPQ80zQkaZRIX3q5iD6UByTodITwGJcdx6zWnA&oe=6663EE1C | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433545868_283000594837085_6561487442196160306_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yvXE2Vk-7WcQ7kNvgEXCk-b&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBdQRjOslElJgzuB1KVaGLdv3mRYZu_snD_7exSRYrbCQ&oe=666409AA | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711090800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846848 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446613 | 1735168102 | 890 | 1348360672492527 | 2 | 6.2641737964214E+14 | 1711177200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120205964712910695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1711125624 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433684869_457092449981648_3407831440630043047_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vdgH8MET4DoQ7kNvgEkqJ58&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA8OIpSfPQ80zQkaZRIX3q5iD6UByTodITwGJcdx6zWnA&oe=6663EE1C | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433545868_283000594837085_6561487442196160306_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yvXE2Vk-7WcQ7kNvgEXCk-b&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBdQRjOslElJgzuB1KVaGLdv3mRYZu_snD_7exSRYrbCQ&oe=666409AA | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711090800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846849 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446613 | 1735168102 | 890 | 1348360672492527 | 2 | 6.2641737964214E+14 | 1711177200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120205964712910695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1711125624 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433684869_457092449981648_3407831440630043047_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vdgH8MET4DoQ7kNvgEkqJ58&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA8OIpSfPQ80zQkaZRIX3q5iD6UByTodITwGJcdx6zWnA&oe=6663EE1C | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433545868_283000594837085_6561487442196160306_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yvXE2Vk-7WcQ7kNvgEXCk-b&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBdQRjOslElJgzuB1KVaGLdv3mRYZu_snD_7exSRYrbCQ&oe=666409AA | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711090800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846850 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446613 | 1735168102 | 890 | 1348360672492527 | 2 | 6.2641737964214E+14 | 1711177200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120205964712910695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1711125624 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433684869_457092449981648_3407831440630043047_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vdgH8MET4DoQ7kNvgEkqJ58&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA8OIpSfPQ80zQkaZRIX3q5iD6UByTodITwGJcdx6zWnA&oe=6663EE1C | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433545868_283000594837085_6561487442196160306_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yvXE2Vk-7WcQ7kNvgEXCk-b&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBdQRjOslElJgzuB1KVaGLdv3mRYZu_snD_7exSRYrbCQ&oe=666409AA | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711090800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846851 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446613 | 1735168102 | 890 | 1348360672492527 | 2 | 6.2641737964214E+14 | 1711177200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120205964712910695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1711125624 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433684869_457092449981648_3407831440630043047_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vdgH8MET4DoQ7kNvgEkqJ58&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA8OIpSfPQ80zQkaZRIX3q5iD6UByTodITwGJcdx6zWnA&oe=6663EE1C | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433545868_283000594837085_6561487442196160306_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yvXE2Vk-7WcQ7kNvgEXCk-b&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBdQRjOslElJgzuB1KVaGLdv3mRYZu_snD_7exSRYrbCQ&oe=666409AA | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711090800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846852 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446613 | 1735168103 | 890 | 1348360672492527 | 2 | 6.2641737964214E+14 | 1711177200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120205964712910695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1711125624 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433684869_457092449981648_3407831440630043047_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vdgH8MET4DoQ7kNvgEkqJ58&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA8OIpSfPQ80zQkaZRIX3q5iD6UByTodITwGJcdx6zWnA&oe=6663EE1C | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433545868_283000594837085_6561487442196160306_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yvXE2Vk-7WcQ7kNvgEXCk-b&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBdQRjOslElJgzuB1KVaGLdv3mRYZu_snD_7exSRYrbCQ&oe=666409AA | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711090800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846853 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446613 | 1735168103 | 890 | 1348360672492527 | 2 | 6.2641737964214E+14 | 1711177200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120205964712910695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1711125624 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433684869_457092449981648_3407831440630043047_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vdgH8MET4DoQ7kNvgEkqJ58&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA8OIpSfPQ80zQkaZRIX3q5iD6UByTodITwGJcdx6zWnA&oe=6663EE1C | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433545868_283000594837085_6561487442196160306_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yvXE2Vk-7WcQ7kNvgEXCk-b&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBdQRjOslElJgzuB1KVaGLdv3mRYZu_snD_7exSRYrbCQ&oe=666409AA | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711090800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846854 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446613 | 1735168103 | 890 | 1348360672492527 | 2 | 6.2641737964214E+14 | 1711177200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120205964712910695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1711125624 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433684869_457092449981648_3407831440630043047_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vdgH8MET4DoQ7kNvgEkqJ58&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA8OIpSfPQ80zQkaZRIX3q5iD6UByTodITwGJcdx6zWnA&oe=6663EE1C | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433545868_283000594837085_6561487442196160306_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yvXE2Vk-7WcQ7kNvgEXCk-b&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBdQRjOslElJgzuB1KVaGLdv3mRYZu_snD_7exSRYrbCQ&oe=666409AA | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711090800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846855 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446613 | 1735168103 | 890 | 1348360672492527 | 2 | 6.2641737964214E+14 | 1711177200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120205964712910695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1711125624 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433684869_457092449981648_3407831440630043047_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vdgH8MET4DoQ7kNvgEkqJ58&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA8OIpSfPQ80zQkaZRIX3q5iD6UByTodITwGJcdx6zWnA&oe=6663EE1C | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433545868_283000594837085_6561487442196160306_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yvXE2Vk-7WcQ7kNvgEXCk-b&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBdQRjOslElJgzuB1KVaGLdv3mRYZu_snD_7exSRYrbCQ&oe=666409AA | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711090800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846856 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446613 | 1735168103 | 890 | 1348360672492527 | 2 | 6.2641737964214E+14 | 1711177200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120205964712910695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1711125624 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433684869_457092449981648_3407831440630043047_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vdgH8MET4DoQ7kNvgEkqJ58&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA8OIpSfPQ80zQkaZRIX3q5iD6UByTodITwGJcdx6zWnA&oe=6663EE1C | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433545868_283000594837085_6561487442196160306_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yvXE2Vk-7WcQ7kNvgEXCk-b&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBdQRjOslElJgzuB1KVaGLdv3mRYZu_snD_7exSRYrbCQ&oe=666409AA | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711090800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846857 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446613 | 1735168103 | 890 | 1348360672492527 | 2 | 6.2641737964214E+14 | 1711177200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120205964712910695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1711125624 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433684869_457092449981648_3407831440630043047_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vdgH8MET4DoQ7kNvgEkqJ58&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA8OIpSfPQ80zQkaZRIX3q5iD6UByTodITwGJcdx6zWnA&oe=6663EE1C | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433545868_283000594837085_6561487442196160306_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yvXE2Vk-7WcQ7kNvgEXCk-b&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBdQRjOslElJgzuB1KVaGLdv3mRYZu_snD_7exSRYrbCQ&oe=666409AA | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711090800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846858 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446613 | 1735168103 | 890 | 1348360672492527 | 2 | 6.2641737964214E+14 | 1711177200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120205964712910695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1711125624 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433684869_457092449981648_3407831440630043047_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vdgH8MET4DoQ7kNvgEkqJ58&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA8OIpSfPQ80zQkaZRIX3q5iD6UByTodITwGJcdx6zWnA&oe=6663EE1C | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433545868_283000594837085_6561487442196160306_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yvXE2Vk-7WcQ7kNvgEXCk-b&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBdQRjOslElJgzuB1KVaGLdv3mRYZu_snD_7exSRYrbCQ&oe=666409AA | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711090800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846859 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446613 | 1735168103 | 890 | 1348360672492527 | 2 | 6.2641737964214E+14 | 1711177200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120205964712910695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1711125624 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433684869_457092449981648_3407831440630043047_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vdgH8MET4DoQ7kNvgEkqJ58&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA8OIpSfPQ80zQkaZRIX3q5iD6UByTodITwGJcdx6zWnA&oe=6663EE1C | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433545868_283000594837085_6561487442196160306_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yvXE2Vk-7WcQ7kNvgEXCk-b&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBdQRjOslElJgzuB1KVaGLdv3mRYZu_snD_7exSRYrbCQ&oe=666409AA | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711090800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846861 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446613 | 1735168103 | 890 | 1348360672492527 | 2 | 6.2641737964214E+14 | 1711177200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120205964712910695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1711125624 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433684869_457092449981648_3407831440630043047_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vdgH8MET4DoQ7kNvgEkqJ58&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA8OIpSfPQ80zQkaZRIX3q5iD6UByTodITwGJcdx6zWnA&oe=6663EE1C | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433545868_283000594837085_6561487442196160306_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yvXE2Vk-7WcQ7kNvgEXCk-b&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBdQRjOslElJgzuB1KVaGLdv3mRYZu_snD_7exSRYrbCQ&oe=666409AA | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711090800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846862 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446613 | 1735168103 | 890 | 1348360672492527 | 2 | 6.2641737964214E+14 | 1711177200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120205964712910695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1711125624 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433684869_457092449981648_3407831440630043047_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vdgH8MET4DoQ7kNvgEkqJ58&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA8OIpSfPQ80zQkaZRIX3q5iD6UByTodITwGJcdx6zWnA&oe=6663EE1C | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433545868_283000594837085_6561487442196160306_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yvXE2Vk-7WcQ7kNvgEXCk-b&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBdQRjOslElJgzuB1KVaGLdv3mRYZu_snD_7exSRYrbCQ&oe=666409AA | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711090800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846863 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446613 | 1735168103 | 890 | 1348360672492527 | 2 | 6.2641737964214E+14 | 1711177200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120205964712910695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1711125624 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433684869_457092449981648_3407831440630043047_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vdgH8MET4DoQ7kNvgEkqJ58&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA8OIpSfPQ80zQkaZRIX3q5iD6UByTodITwGJcdx6zWnA&oe=6663EE1C | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433545868_283000594837085_6561487442196160306_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yvXE2Vk-7WcQ7kNvgEXCk-b&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBdQRjOslElJgzuB1KVaGLdv3mRYZu_snD_7exSRYrbCQ&oe=666409AA | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711090800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846864 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446613 | 1735168103 | 890 | 1348360672492527 | 2 | 6.2641737964214E+14 | 1711177200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120205964712910695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1711125624 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433684869_457092449981648_3407831440630043047_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vdgH8MET4DoQ7kNvgEkqJ58&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA8OIpSfPQ80zQkaZRIX3q5iD6UByTodITwGJcdx6zWnA&oe=6663EE1C | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433545868_283000594837085_6561487442196160306_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yvXE2Vk-7WcQ7kNvgEXCk-b&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBdQRjOslElJgzuB1KVaGLdv3mRYZu_snD_7exSRYrbCQ&oe=666409AA | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711090800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846865 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446613 | 1735168103 | 890 | 1348360672492527 | 2 | 6.2641737964214E+14 | 1711177200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120205964712910695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1711125624 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433684869_457092449981648_3407831440630043047_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vdgH8MET4DoQ7kNvgEkqJ58&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA8OIpSfPQ80zQkaZRIX3q5iD6UByTodITwGJcdx6zWnA&oe=6663EE1C | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433545868_283000594837085_6561487442196160306_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yvXE2Vk-7WcQ7kNvgEXCk-b&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBdQRjOslElJgzuB1KVaGLdv3mRYZu_snD_7exSRYrbCQ&oe=666409AA | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711090800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846866 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446613 | 1735168103 | 890 | 1348360672492527 | 2 | 6.2641737964214E+14 | 1711177200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108974115788755 | 0 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 120205964712910695 | campaign.edmiston.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Preference 19 | Start planning your charter. | https://campaign.edmiston.com/charter/ | 1711125624 | 1.0897411578876E+14 | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433684869_457092449981648_3407831440630043047_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vdgH8MET4DoQ7kNvgEkqJ58&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA8OIpSfPQ80zQkaZRIX3q5iD6UByTodITwGJcdx6zWnA&oe=6663EE1C | person_profile | 0 | Edmiston & Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433545868_283000594837085_6561487442196160306_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yvXE2Vk-7WcQ7kNvgEXCk-b&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBdQRjOslElJgzuB1KVaGLdv3mRYZu_snD_7exSRYrbCQ&oe=666409AA | 0 | 3 | The possibilities are endless with a superyacht charter. No other holiday can compare, no other experience comes close. | EDMISTON - WORLD LEADERS IN YACHTING | 8616 | https://facebook.com/edmiston | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711090800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846867 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 12/25/24, 5:08 PM | 1717446613 | 1735168103 | 890 | 1319421515391700 | 3 | 9.2576296927736E+14 | 1711522800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 191241347560220 | 0 | H2o stačí přidat vodu | 120209881264680749 | tunnelstudent.info | Get offer | NONE | video | Tap the "Get Offer" button to seize your offer immediately. 👇 | https://tunnelstudent.info/mCvLuIyCpKz.php?qKuEzYg=Q6Vie1kawk47OYN1xo0W&ad_id=%7B%7Bad.id%7D%7D&campaign_name=%7B%7Bcampaign.name%7D%7D&ad_name=%7B%7Bad.name%7D%7D&adset_name=%7B%7Badset.name%7D%7D&placement=%7B%7Bplacement%7D%7D&site_source_name=%7B%7Bsite_source_name%7D%7D&fbpxl=%7B%7Bfbpxl%7D%7D | 1711116806 | 1.9124134756022E+14 | H2o stačí přidat vodu | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433937224_1565357737591961_7206264131798537315_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=d9jfNlQCVLYQ7kNvgEo16SE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBunSI6gvBFLRHOazcU1_hxIFDbwoMapmRdP8CxxIKNxw&oe=66640655 | person_profile | 0 | H2o stačí přidat vodu | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434015920_3385636141581346_2109119832521818015_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3Tc3ug1CuXEQ7kNvgEdDuo2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCTx2xJKeG8-JHG_evrdYV9MOcrqg0uqxj0VmRMpvI0LQ&oe=66641531 | 0 | 3 | If you're reading this, 😱<br /> Celebrate your success! You're among the fortunate 3,000 individuals who have secured a TenPoint Nitro 505 for just $10 in our giveaway, 🥳 | H2o stačí přidat vodu | 37 | https://facebook.com/100069736283298 | 0 | GET_OFFER_VIEW | 1711090800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846524 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 1:22 PM | 1717446602 | 1742840555 | 890 | 1429990074297862 | 1 | 9.6830293498968E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 104909945752654 | 0 | Jee Marie | 120209166163860718 | NONE | video | 1717368200 | 1.0490994575265E+14 | Jee Marie | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445370043_1000426328329732_7102764488944740790_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XvG-grfCA-YQ7kNvgFq7YcT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA-iqTVoTqeDDg9YB2skuOKfmKUTUrlYswsNl5HAMQPIA&oe=66640587 | person_profile | 0 | Jee Marie | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445454737_805791291518057_4173000738555544310_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6Ipcaocnt2gQ7kNvgF12Cfs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB0BR6KMgkfTOcF8_zFzXo0I0GxYbEM8r4NqmOLSopeOg&oe=6663F6C9 | 0 | 3 | My other half trained me on how to use an acudraw crossbow today. I hit a bullseye, not bad for a first timer. 😉😘 | Jee Marie | 1282 | https://facebook.com/toddjee.pulk | 0 | 1717311600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846633 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 6:47 AM | 1717446605 | 1742816832 | 890 | 405142735839443 | 1 | 2.790308721119E+15 | 1716361200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 109796105102626 | 0 | AFK Journey | 120207837777740352 | itunes.apple.com | Play game | NONE | video | Download For FREE | http://itunes.apple.com/app/id1628970855 | 1716202566 | 1.0979610510263E+14 | AFK Journey | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436483490_3770385239917595_7226679730417838514_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MktDHYMVJM8Q7kNvgEBDs-b&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDNzGT43I4_RxWsafqxohmMYW20Of-kgoATpzWdJD-5GQ&oe=6663FB8C | person_profile | 0 | AFK Journey | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/443714363_969206694523561_1192660721951021187_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9S_DlmcSQNMQ7kNvgFVJ2xJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAB3b2Jkak5ocBHZgTjJgjaeu-D4vaN3POIoWH6MigLpQ&oe=6663F219 | 0 | 3 | AFK's new flagship game | AFK Journey | 100250 | https://facebook.com/AFKJourneyOfficial | 0 | PLAY_GAME | 1716188400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846606 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 1:07 AM | 1717446604 | 1742796471 | 890 | 481245571022702 | 1 | 7.5779186322229E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1510377639180840 | 0 | Cressona Fire Company No.1 | 6607363294959 | cfd1-shfd2.betterworld.org | Buy tickets | NONE | event | 2nd Annual Sportsman Raffle | Winners must be at least age 18 for long pew-pews and cash prizes; age 21 for hand pew-pews. Tickets are non-transferable. Winners of pew-pews are responsible to pass all background checks, pay 6% PA sales tax, and pay background fee. Winners of firearms or ammunition will have choice of prize, cash... | https://cfd1-shfd2.betterworld.org/events/2nd-annual-sportsman-raffle | 1716920236 | 1.5103776391808E+15 | Cressona Fire Company No.1 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441542772_824715585697994_2171670943639789119_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YF0IZ1iZWqoQ7kNvgF2apjI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCPJyLNWGnaCXgpaGM2uYmG9gUBx_aGArpUhU_Wgupe1A&oe=6663EF18 | person_profile | 0 | Cressona Fire Company No.1 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445228317_3634272243452219_8220692990811807773_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DnEdAyediv8Q7kNvgE92Zil&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYApZNUxVa_qk1Jx3_3KlCX0PA12-L-MwfrEGq2_w4bm5Q&oe=66640B37 | 0 | 3 | 2ND ANNUAL SPORTSMAN RAFFLE <br /> Link to Purchase Tickets: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fcfd1-shfd2.betterworld.org%2Fevents%2F2nd-annual-sportsman-raffle&h=AT31IU3ITlmApGfpPUxNnvUPIGcNbvpDLRD3se2lo4JVXx_W2E-cuDJDoA64t-vbklwL2P6rekAqjnnOgWix2fMLrnaFeKZXKVZNTSeJNo5_labbDVLzz4nGnHwBAFcBpL0Ew89RNtfH8zXiM9JNIgRuDahWTg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://cfd1-shfd2.betterworld.org/events/2nd-annual-sportsman-raffle</a><br /> <br /> Saturday, August 10, 2024<br /> 12 Noon to 5 p.m. <br /> <br /> Held at Cressona Fire Co. #1, 59 South 2nd St., Cressona, PA 17929<br /> <br /> Must have ticket to enter. Ticket includes food, soda, beer. Must be 21 to consume alcohol; ID is a MUST! <br /> <br /> TICKET INCLUDES PRIZE DRAWINGS EVERY 15 MINUTES!<br /> <br /> 12:00 – Rossi Rio Bravo Tactical .22cal or $260 Cash Payout<br /> <br /> 12:15 – Big Game Hunter HD 1.5 Ladder Tree Stand<br /> <br /> 12:30 – $250 CASH PRIZE <br /> <br /> 12:45 – Glock 28 .380 ACP 10-round or $440 Cash Payout <br /> <br /> 1:00 – Trail Cameras 2-pk Moultrie Mobile Edge Cell<br /> <br /> 1:15 – Springfield HellCat Pro OSP 9mm pkg. or $500 Cash Payout<br /> <br /> 1:30 – $250 CASH PRIZE<br /> <br /> 1:45 – Flambeau Boss Buck Deer Decoy <br /> <br /> 2:00 – S&W EZ Shield .380 Orchid / Glitter or $480 Cash Payout <br /> <br /> 2:15 – Crossbow, Center Point Sniper XT390<br /> <br /> 2:30 – $250 CASH PRIZE <br /> <br /> 2:45 – Ground Blind, Muddy Prevue 2<br /> <br /> 3:00 – Taurus PT111 G2c 9mm or $200 Cash Payout <br /> <br /> 3:15 – $250 Shakey’s Gun Shop Gift Certificate <br /> <br /> 3:30 – Scorpio .223 FMJ -500 Rounds or $300 Cash Payout <br /> <br /> 3:45 – Diamondback DB10 - 6.5 Creedmoor or $1,200 Cash Payout<br /> <br /> 4:00 – Rangefinder, Leupold RX-1400I TBR/W Gen.2<br /> <br /> 4:15 – Keltec KSG 410 ga. Black or $400 Cash Payout<br /> <br /> 4:30 – $250 Cabela’s Gift Card <br /> <br /> 4:45 – Aguila 9mm Ammo-1000 Rounds or $250 Cash Payout <br /> <br /> 5:00 - Kimber R7 Mako 9mm Pkg. or $460 Cash Payout<br /> <br /> Must be present to win the 5:00PM Attendance Special Prize!<br /> <br /> Strip tickets will be sold during Event to win Pew-Pews, Steak Trays, and Cash/Lotto Prizes!<br /> <br /> Pew-Pews from Shakey’s in Orwigsburg. Other prizes from Cabela’s in Hamburg.<br /> <br /> Ticket holders need not be present to win, except for the 5:00 p.m. ATTENDANCE SPECIAL PRIZE. <br /> <br /> Winners must be at least age 18 for long pew-pews and cash prizes; age 21 for hand pew-pews. Tickets are non-transferable. Winners of pew-pews are responsible to pass all background checks, pay 6% PA sales tax, and pay background fee. Winners of firearms or ammunition will have choice of prize, cash value, or Shakey's Gift Certificate as stated on the ticket. Any prizes not picked up by Sept. 10, 2024 will be forfeited. Straight cash prizes will be mailed to winners within one week from the drawing. Pew-Pews or Cash Payout offered for Pew-Pews must be picked up at Shakey’s Gun Shop, 221 E. Market St., Orwigsburg, PA 17961 (570-366-0179). <br /> <br /> PA Small Games of Chance #9626 and #9197<br /> <br /> Benefits Schuylkill Hose Co. #2 & Cressona Fire Co. #1<br /> <br /> Tickets Sponsored By: Main Street Moonshine Restaurant and Distillery, 101 W. Main Street, Schuylkill Haven, PA 17972.<br /> <br /> For more info Call Cressona #1 (570) 385-2249 OR Schuylkill Hose #2 (570) 385-0393. or contact any member.<br /> <br /> ***MINORS ARE ALLOWED IF ACCOMPANIED BY ADULTS*** <br /> <br /> Minors 7-17 will be $10 cover charge to cover for Food, Soda, and Water.<br /> <br /> Minors 6 & Under will be FREE. | Cressona Fire Company No.1 | 3989 | https://facebook.com/cressonafire | 0 | BUY_TICKETS | 1716879600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846527 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/25/25, 4:59 AM | 1717446602 | 1742896763 | 890 | 427516186752682 | 1 | 9.9080694595945E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 103244559362820 | 0 | 4 Seasons Outfitters | 6625033407067 | Send message | NONE | multi_images | 1717339098 | 1.0324455936282E+14 | 4 Seasons Outfitters | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447511236_1190584475448716_5981730001402619662_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HZws0ASv3D8Q7kNvgG6kGGB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCMJlm_gi-V_nKVdEuUz_XD__9V8I7rg2DY4f2LUOJY5Q&oe=6663EE3A | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | We have 3 archery (bow or crossbow) openings for 2 people at a time for great whitetail hunts, excellent lodging included. Last year was my first year in outfitting, I only had one hunter in because plans changed from the other 3 coming in. We only do 4 whitetail hunts a year—all private. Call today I can promise you won’t be sorry😎Also in the lodge we have two big screen tv’s, brand new pool table and a hot tub for relaxing when you’re not hunting😎<br /> Hunt dates:<br /> September 23-27<br /> October 5-9<br /> November 11-15*Hot Spot<br /> Weyerhaeuser, WI | 4 Seasons Outfitters | 245 | https://facebook.com/4seasonsoutfitterswi | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1717311600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846525 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 2:12 AM | 1717446602 | 1742800379 | 890 | 839319901386883 | 1 | 4.2960267987959E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 105298061808542 | 0 | Holland Celtic Festival | 6599757069930 | hollandcelticfestival.org | Learn more | NONE | image | Holland Waterfront Celtic Festival & Highland Games – Holland, Michigan's newest annual festival! | Welcome to the Holland Celtic Festival! Our 2024 event is Friday evening, June 21 & all day Saturday, June 22, 2024 at the Ottawa County Fairgrounds, in Holland, Michigan. Follow us here and at Facebook/HollandCelticFestival. TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW! | http://www.hollandcelticfestival.org/ | 1717353043 | 1.0529806180854E+14 | Holland Celtic Festival | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445478920_1592325311623542_4133208988389806104_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9HIY1dPz8S8Q7kNvgGvWDXQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDfqad6WX5Lhp3ZuojRvdWg5EeO_As_EQZu_6kAKmeEiQ&oe=6663FD67 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Here are the bands playing on two stages at the Holland Celtic Festival June 21 & 22 along with a dozen Irish & Scottish dance performances, Pipes and Drums, Hugh the Kilted Magician, a full schedule of Scottish Highland Games, 22 Scottish Clan tents, ax throwing, 20 Celtic goods vendors and a dozen awesome food booths!<br /> Tickets for the 21 and older Friday night Ceilidh, Saturday’s all day festival and the GUINNESS EXPERIENCE are on sale now!<br /> 15 and under are free on Saturday. Visit our website then click on the ticket link! <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.HollandCelticFestival.org%2F&h=AT2QnRzRlnpHjQoor9_iaWGRn8DUiJzt-k2VbYmkkc-ceacTRUBMjdM9OQzz2TqjfIHxVDOK4NdtdLWLJhHxBoXVbyz3NNUnvCA9NYAUs_r7WqpN0uCfJwvxq02KLdojFLSgt1iqcgxzYDiAJX7wQFpd8zGZLw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">www.HollandCelticFestival.org</a> | Holland Celtic Festival | 2016 | https://facebook.com/HollandCelticFestival | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717311600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846655 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 3:57 PM | 1717446605 | 1742849820 | 890 | 464090356136526 | 1 | 9.7291124453432E+14 | 1715929200 | person_profile | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 318741617983690 | 0 | Claire Clark | 120207376395630741 | www.bootstounrap.top | Learn more | NONE | video | Choose it, embrace your powerful moments! | https://www.bootstounrap.top/products/dthgfgghfhfgjgjn | 1715759682 | 3.1874161798369E+14 | Claire Clark | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442413369_3699876566946199_2110720753421345085_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1Vx2f7zYcBQQ7kNvgH0QK2-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAO-WbWLAZN7q8mVF_Bld_3qUcjXQUFYRdHMGhsCfWl1g&oe=6663FA79 | person_profile | 0 | Claire Clark | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442399373_842398674372962_7290100156387069465_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gVabszf8hYgQ7kNvgEN1PyM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD4zLkH9xlhPg8njBt4kCIPt0ZV3xbYgijYHqRwswnXPg&oe=6663E766 | 0 | 3 | One drop unleashes male potential!<br /> ⚡️Unique formula, fully unleashes male energy.<br /> Choose it, embrace your powerful moments!<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bootstounrap.top%2Fproducts%2Fdthgfgghfhfgjgjn&h=AT0CBvQ7YapWQFhAXenTSVp2rw4z9QIR6j7crGcubMwRrarCXURqjjWFDEV312OJVg7HfTdRpXTesgjDHesavKl9DtnOT1UFKyodLvY35N6MoEDaFodwhaIQrdWBkyaW9mFtZjfI2DIBcHyKbk0Vlv4WqjlZog" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.bootstounrap.top/products/dthgfgghfhfgjgjn</a> | Claire Clark | 16 | https://facebook.com/61559233052703 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715929200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846593 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 8:47 AM | 1717446604 | 1742824043 | 890 | 3607228119589777 | 1 | 1.89400657106E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 127033936186 | 0 | Deer & Deer Hunting | 6616264749510 | NONE | video | #109: TRACKING WOUNDED DEER with Richard Smith | Deer Talk Now Podcast | 1717164363 | 127033936186 | Deer & Deer Hunting | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444765567_975697900515101_3316466614734157679_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GKMUkhdfj2gQ7kNvgH_0tU4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBe1-cq7wKu-ID7NIahsn0S6T4qbTBOpHYx8sifFr4RfA&oe=66640099 | person_profile | 0 | Deer & Deer Hunting | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444487739_351166290975176_5181655340857399157_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8e-TpSJO8TUQ7kNvgEm-IZe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDMG_BB19rIEz_z1jEIMAGquat9FsHjfdqdFOAgGh6sUg&oe=6663FCBA | 0 | 3 | Award-winning outdoor writer Richard Smith gives his expert advice on tracking wounded deer from how to identify where you hit the animal, when to start tracking and follow-up shots. He also provides his thoughts on antler point restrictions, baiting and the spread of deer diseases.<br /> <br /> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MoultrieProducts">Moultrie Products</a> | <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Frichardpsmith.com%2F&h=AT0km-dNdECfldwVbs0iETH3ssG8zwVVbXkUFvP_cwgPKSzNASzKzgE48686tJ8pMDfIYW0h86q25NSplu7oufIgjWPFWi-djO8HSMji-5cWvMg8l4v204EjHd08ztmHdK648Tjxj9cXHfT5j3Uk2e9GdiZWhg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://richardpsmith.com/</a> | Deer & Deer Hunting | 772758 | https://facebook.com/deerhuntingmag | 0 | 1717138800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846532 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 7:04 PM | 1717446602 | 1742861059 | 890 | 1109840100105764 | 1 | 4.8350361420195E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 104212142230960 | 0 | Average Jack Archery LLC | 6586225424447 | Send message | NONE | image | 1717267027 | 1.0421214223096E+14 | Average Jack Archery LLC | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447384141_957204182556541_2023712108657585059_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=j_MO3Rn3W8QQ7kNvgHDTFj7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBCicdLlt7G-YSaE5lhAYSb8FQVOOR7XU9-HCgZx5cWgA&oe=6663E931 | person_profile | 0 | Average Jack Archery LLC | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445782848_785204703737564_190795489873704552_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=E7ziwqgeqA0Q7kNvgHW7n94&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDkA0ovtiFAWWJTJNoF1GVggjAnyLJ-x76vfO-ae9nudQ&oe=66640303 | 0 | 3 | It's never too early to get your bow ready for the season! Not sure if you need new strings? Bring your bow in and we are happy to check for you! <br /> <br /> For June only, get 15% OFF full String and Cable sets from GAS, ABB, and Zebra! Crossbow shooters save on OMP and BlackHeart! | Average Jack Archery LLC | 3598 | https://facebook.com/averagejackarcheryproshop | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846652 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 10:37 AM | 1717446605 | 1742830632 | 890 | 1083699649400872 | 1 | 7.5585302276009E+15 | 1715842800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 309991898860128 | 0 | Jasswyg | 120211050706450007 | ogcqgjv.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Bankruptcy Sale, Only $29.05. | choimp | https://www.tufdocw.com/products?handler=cb&token=DTSc9XQf | 1715769134 | 3.0999189886013E+14 | Jasswyg | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436367540_3622659407951132_5010362282380566542_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Oo6LVgDJqvkQ7kNvgEa8SmR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBVbh4YQYuPVT12DYP4AAZuQa7N1M_9EjZ8-twLX_HkPA&oe=6663F7B5 | person_profile | 0 | Jasswyg | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441495187_456505916912778_1733906360465521892_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=29ITUAOf4OkQ7kNvgGzKe7R&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDs9D1yeIG9i0dplYAmzoqMVMz8aaw3i_zlSvGrnZqfEw&oe=66640382 | 0 | 3 | 🏹️The best hunting crossbow come from generations of hard work developing the most cutting-edge technology to produce the fastest crossbow on the market. | Jasswyg | 0 | https://facebook.com/61558502476873 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715756400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846620 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 2:06 PM | 1717446604 | 1742843182 | 890 | 2545671272295294 | 2 | 4.6012203642878E+14 | 1716793200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 217316998627741 | 0 | Frost & Flame：King of Avalon | 120209574967990783 | play.google.com | Play game | NONE | video | Play for FREE! | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.funplus.kingofavalon | 1716460377 | 2.1731699862774E+14 | Frost & Flame：King of Avalon | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445365579_802045058523378_1313797933381863154_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WO1OUdCGoPIQ7kNvgHZJW5s&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCLa3oVHqOor43VvsOh1J8cSq0-rhkulcCuk0Onqw6AaQ&oe=6663F57E | person_profile | 0 | King of Avalon | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445227918_1153494595697137_187837300634108630_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2mNys9KMV8UQ7kNvgGJmmFw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDbHEY8zqSYVbx98TbLpVBhnoZnLFd9XarU71QlzI2qcg&oe=6664034B | 0 | 3 | Why is this game so fun?! Play Now! | Frost & Flame：King of Avalon | 1213145 | https://facebook.com/koadw | 0 | PLAY_GAME | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846616 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 3:20 PM | 1717446604 | 1742847633 | 890 | 852352643393772 | 2 | 3.5087410726816E+15 | 1716793200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 217316998627741 | 0 | Frost & Flame：King of Avalon | 120209574963820783 | play.google.com | Play game | NONE | video | Play for FREE! | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.funplus.kingofavalon | 1716460360 | 2.1731699862774E+14 | Frost & Flame：King of Avalon | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441953459_1584836078749912_8871264102183484181_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=LxT0IZQuwQUQ7kNvgHWGfSF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA-Gyi_7otAACioEWuPhilKkjMY6f-OJsZxwGdDWkTLlA&oe=6663E4BA | person_profile | 0 | King of Avalon | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441952056_432722072729934_8510349754021028277_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6O9ZsPz4hzQQ7kNvgFw-nB8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA9z4HjCpMFYxoS_8Kn3eJ78RbhCmbIo32aVs5Fvs4G2Q&oe=6663EDAD | 0 | 3 | That Game Everyone's Playing! Join Now! | Frost & Flame：King of Avalon | 1213145 | https://facebook.com/koadw | 0 | PLAY_GAME | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846582 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 2:53 PM | 1717446604 | 1742846031 | 890 | 7573107572737428 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212351801400779 | crossbowleather.com | Shop Now | 3033 | NONE | dpa | DOG LEASH | https://www.crossbowleather.com/ | 1715981115 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441502892_748950130652610_5291600431370711030_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Et7NaHuXCHkQ7kNvgEcmwv2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDbG-lKsNKhNayplL7--uYDLBUokhyWLyiAVVx1EgCl1w&oe=666409A6 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441539629_990266819143998_1058009510856463769_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DtcvPjAb_sIQ7kNvgFO663m&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYChBw1CrPYwp6u6_Ir0zHLy7AHDdv9s44RLfwZViW3ebw&oe=666403A9 | 0 | 3 | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846654 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 5:01 AM | 1717446605 | 1742810483 | 890 | 940866141069553 | 2 | 4.1254147834364E+14 | 1716015600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250777461461941 | 0 | Caroline Gomez | 120208365229250368 | www.bootstounrap.top | Learn more | NONE | video | Choose it, embrace your powerful moments! | https://www.bootstounrap.top/products/dthgfgghfhfgjgjn | 1715759497 | 2.5077746146194E+14 | Caroline Gomez | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442436393_963200828689412_3757247329834467692_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4RFAwxD06Q0Q7kNvgFykBcK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD6mRGYGDYAJ2y5LjwjObzKNn-FHZA5ol1E_-hwvwvfEQ&oe=6663FFEC | person_profile | 0 | Caroline Gomez | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442439230_836795605152454_4390646010906293977_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Zx2b97xausgQ7kNvgE8dcid&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA1V8bfwvriN2NLpQu6cPIVuZ7VX2J5nN0tAkPugE_nQw&oe=66640A46 | 0 | 3 | One drop unleashes male potential!<br /> ⚡️Unique formula, fully unleashes male energy.<br /> Choose it, embrace your powerful moments!<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bootstounrap.top%2Fproducts%2Fdthgfgghfhfgjgjn&h=AT2iCQDm13h65IOajSfQUDO4CEqtUJTTgojKWj5NR6EhNI30b6yfKPSsaISiYvEnfOIljiu546lVqN0y_IzfsnhS5TQvAsN8oN32q7Lja7IdxsxW0ve8ULTrICJX9z11hewmU_LELGIxa3DQ0-gERORQh4efyw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.bootstounrap.top/products/dthgfgghfhfgjgjn</a> | Caroline Gomez | 37 | https://facebook.com/61559259991872 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715929200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846596 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 1:07 AM | 1717446604 | 1742796428 | 890 | 1486613345268146 | 2 | 1.5959896776419E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100365976129594 | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | 120209190595620257 | play.google.com | Play game | NONE | video | Match-3 and Fight | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.global.pnck | 1717150934 | 1.0036597612959E+14 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441958787_2675545135942350_2736369708848500202_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2zrEatmAmlwQ7kNvgGs3-Qc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCw1pXLqMhFAPBVCE7vWXn5G5fo3G5xyQRiGOGag89JZA&oe=666405BF | person_profile | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445771817_451788830781629_2336908498047922135_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=v7ek18_9lIQQ7kNvgF-Y8Wd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAaedBvXlNzwdf664pcc6y1LfC1Tjq7jLS2Z7tOm8InWA&oe=6663F6D6 | 0 | 3 | Collect, Construct, Conquer | Puzzles & Chaos | 13312 | https://facebook.com/PuzzlesAndChaos | 0 | PLAY_GAME | 1717138800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846537 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 4/21/25, 9:07 PM | 1717446603 | 1745287621 | 890 | 475300191825655 | 1 | 4.1294703157236E+14 | 1717052400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1768001686751495 | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | 120212380470800779 | shopcrossbow.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | {{product.name}} | {{product.description}} | https://shopcrossbow.com/products/heather-benjamin-claw-arrowhead-bolo?utm_campaign={{campaign.name}} | 1716053667 | 1.7680016867515E+15 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442419409_1000954258286631_4377411983348532002_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nCcAOOLBv7EQ7kNvgHubHSB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBYyy97imU1tf2L4oFvUUQkNTtpxmATv24iTpdVmcq9LQ&oe=6663FD33 | person_profile | 0 | Crossbow Telluride | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444763530_1185121005708842_837956208575167369_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k6j6dxO7pzIQ7kNvgEMQk3L&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBgGRJroocaZ_jI0MtQTpMeD9pBLS5ze7nhhbmxanOhFQ&oe=66640DE3 | 0 | 3 | Free Shipping on All Bolo Tie Orders! | Crossbow Telluride | 687 | https://facebook.com/crossbowtelluride | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716620400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846523 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 10:52 AM | 1717446602 | 1742831571 | 890 | 425002947082696 | 1 | 1.8525871552515E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 109331595774400 | 0 | Cross Pointe Church | 6580381689222 | NONE | video | Cross Pointe Worship Experience | 1717382153 | 1.093315957744E+14 | Cross Pointe Church | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445248357_428499943359828_3923589679220763259_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3flpG6f4lGgQ7kNvgF0nKbC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB9F4Fd68zpKthNswANPey-i4T0uI2BRY_E0otUGQOWzA&oe=66640A4E | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Fill out your Connect Card: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fcponline.churchcenter.com%2Fpeople%2Fforms%2F663590&h=AT1g4He-wL2cOWeL1J8Rj8pFlE0be0dCe0Qz5PGLNBRTNvqLOUf8DZmShRjkX_2rhiXLCj_Dqh1yKOjMQcqj2TxjXie7LrhFTlo4lI2_Fs5YiMyMmmCYYwcyI1G-DwVxgC1x5lj3-uhH1hA0GKxm41DI2QoqlA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://cponline.churchcenter.com/people/forms/663590</a><br /> Give Online: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fcpointe.church%2Fgive&h=AT1CCYv0Jzi3fu1r8JwR2N-s_gQjZp8nI5XzEPg_9O9ycrco90gBJqezZJRKgc0UKDjpff932CyArQ0ah0J_c2eoFSSL67c9Iu_rGxcjqFkh0ijg2racZX8JWvn7aPEbrMqAfX7Zp9KWj2r9JyubCBSe1yEDzw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://cpointe.church/give</a> | Cross Pointe Church | 853 | https://facebook.com/crosspointecanton | 0 | 1717311600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846522 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 6/2/25, 9:02 AM | 1717446602 | 1748872965 | 890 | 1584833628751610 | 1 | 1.1048131272742E+15 | 1717398000 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 112921797081078 | 0 | Erick Perez | 120211328468600737 | Buy now | NONE | image | Guitar Hero Bundle w/ Console | https://facebook.com/marketplace/item/1015984243285706/ | 1717386668 | 1.1292179708108E+14 | Erick Perez | regular_page | 1 | Erick Perez | 1 | 3 | Guitar Hero Bundle w/ Console - $325.00<br /> <br /> I have a pretty amazing bundle right here that’s is for any family or home/ gathering. This bundle will have everything for you to play right away to enjoy and make memories with. You’ll get the original console with with all the original cords to play w/ 2 controllers w nunchucks. Wii does shows signs of wear but you’ll also get 8 games; Guitar Hero 5, Band Hero, Mario Kart, Links Crossbow training, Mario kart, sky lander games and some winter islands games. I believe only the guitar hero games and one skylander game is complete with manual. Disc vary from good to light scratching but all tested and work. On top of the console and games you’ll get the whole Guitar Hero world tour kit! Guitar looks beautiful and is tested working amazing with tight whammy bar. Drums also play phenomenal and come with the original l foot pedal and GH hero branded drum sticks . The drums wiring is starting to break which is common with the drums from being stored inside. Besides the wiring loom, drums look amazing. Everything will be shipped out within 24hrs<br /> <br /> OBO :)<br /> Facebook Marketplace | Erick Perez | 0 | /marketplace/?seller_profile=100002978294233 | 0 | BUY_NOW | 1717311600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846689 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/23/25, 3:18 AM | 1717446607 | 1742717903 | 890 | 7405978872842698 | 1 | 3.751346588148E+14 | 1715324400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 228845534391387 | 0 | 7 Sided Die | 120209238907750045 | www.youtube.com | Sign up | NONE | video | D&D Stream - 7SD Carpathian Adventure Episode 117: "That sounds like... a dragon...." | https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeT_cRiddQgjRL7PWSHqx2g?sub_confirmation=1 | 1714108119 | 2.2884553439139E+14 | 7 Sided Die | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440238929_359895827097358_7837368262650412387_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=roW8hK1HPeEQ7kNvgEjlBdS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBkZ6qNuQeKIrL5zAVmhxHgwnuMsWX3ETuwae5qfMy06g&oe=6663F883 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | D&D Stream - 7SD Carpathian Adventure Episode 117: "That sounds like... a dragon...."<br /> <br /> D&D Live Stream<br /> <br /> Thank you for checking out 7 Sided Die (7SD)!<br /> <br /> This is one of our live streamed games!<br /> <br /> We're a group of gamers. Some of us are military, some are in construction, IT, others retail managers, a few are parents, and still others are students, etc. So, we're just everyday people who stream live strictly for fun! We hope you enjoy our stream nonetheless!<br /> <br /> We stream our some of games on YouTube at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fc%2F7SidedDie&h=AT35EJg4H0NAN4eSbU__wPIPp98MMKx8kh9wDjgbrUHIbEAh_xPxjrRTloItS6g63ZZH6xNb1pVtkLxWazT-kJnyFlHtBBTqCvupdc9o6TVg3v85xsFzi27_r9IBvsfa4QQk5JrAYRXRBxoGDk_eWJq4rugyKA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.youtube.com/c/7SidedDie</a>, on our Twitch channel at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.twitch.tv%2F7SidedDie&h=AT10u6NqESyTKuDB6U_gz1ZbilN1GZWQgN-2dvWq0Hf_6YweZaG81K1H8__2lwI3srhLvzht3g2i88rLqyXyhBo7qVZvrqPSId3YnwGFJoDMoctoXkAmoAUIqc-Yp4tkBCA41sQg64NQlFNPlgCzF09kr74fcQ" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.twitch.tv/7SidedDie</a>, on our Facebook page at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/7-Sided-Die-228845534391387/" rel="nofollow">https://www.facebook.com/7-Sided-Die-228845534391387/</a> on Twitter at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2F7_sided_Die&h=AT3i0KjerpwhDZ-QfNqV8XVtL5boDmal6HC08QC9KhT6wy5q2ZtNc0cDtjUp0thoohGcMvIINuhF7lUqSUzPXfxHlU6Mba_yNoOEU0PEZhP0YpP9T3EmloAdn92VrFUDyjZ1s8TRaUgN_rNgWBkKyxdI67MPeA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://twitter.com/7_sided_Die</a>, on our KICK page at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fkick.com%2F7-sided-die&h=AT1nMmeir4yZ2jw6xcDc5O1S9rO9jXXEyHnN4x98hnmij3EN4hq02eaJzaWpos8Zz49MsmLc0UllcpvUpmMXQO0beiBDVVNC-aEBwHumY-PiZk09FF9WnU_UfyxtYN4pM9g6l5gBRCxq7q8_fuZrrsMcAyh8fQ" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://kick.com/7-sided-die</a> and occasionally on our Trovo page at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Ftrovo.live%2Fs%2F7SidedDie%2F224125104&h=AT3RIYdYT0C9LjWvc06FXJ7a98d3iBJPfoicwyXPOE6eRwedRVzqAMSm4j9VzMxHFaCsarUvd6MzMRWhlPzTgFpzloE2Y2R21UgJi4-cfvC4iE-c2TysDa5v6AIX22s7Iyl_gPpoHhfM0x8kMtqxcs3zYkxXjw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://trovo.live/s/7SidedDie/224125104</a>. Our streams are archived indefinitely on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, and as permitted by the level (Streamer, Affiliate, Partner, etc.) on Twitch, Kick and Trovo.<br /> <br /> Again, thank you for checking us out, and "Roll a 7 sided die!"<br /> <br /> '7 Sided Die is unofficial Fan Content permitted under the Fan Content Policy. Wizards of the Coast's Fan Content Policy is located here: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fcompany.wizards.com%2Fen%2Flegal%2Ffancontentpolicy&h=AT1AkI337wlbRwKCYMfxjy0E__AEXDCUgXM8XVX576XjEkBEf080xi-dF5S_izuOLWC19gxL8qI0SSiSGfQ5eFqkLQkzFn5gikW8ULpvMsdMY-wPyIVCM6Anc1U3LtLJbefvtCFad7yVI3-r-tnHY0i1NeNl6A" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://company.wizards.com/en/legal/fancontentpolicy</a>. Neither 7 Sided Die, the Carpathian Adventure nor any of 7 Sided Die's streams and videos are approved or endorsed by Wizards or Wizards of the Coast. Not approved/endorsed by Wizards. Portions of the materials used are property of Wizards of the Coast. ©Wizards of the Coast LLC.<br /> <br /> Some background music courtesy Syrinscape. ©Syrinscape. (Some) "Music and Sound by Syrinscape. "Syrinscape under the Creative Commons Attribution License 4.0. More info here: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fcreativecommons.org%2Flicenses%2F&h=AT1QS_AA_YpAoGsiLG-DCF-NOaolC2k1UqsjN38V22o7bULpFgR6pYETi6crmqkwH9Dgt5vQdKLtn097j5Yxx55_XxmGXCeJlcMSybw9mE4uX7WzEVKJ0negggnhqWEFWmxWOqqywwR_y1leWQph2FLUuOwHdg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">creativecommons.org/licenses/</a>" <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fsyrinscape.com%2Ffaq%2F&h=AT2RJYknF1BqQlQj9eKBzyCio7BK4tnIagPLTzSA_H_nMgQzGI-LYi5niAjB3q2_L8PUNKhfbHM7ho14tMKqRt0nHzdOukTzMe1Kd6vJ0VwTB7oZ1_PG5ihXOl91OPjXihazhOasyV5HJ03AtsOOZov3VctxMw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://syrinscape.com/faq/</a> "Because Epic Games Need Epic Sound." Complete list of credits here: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fsyrinscape.com%2Fattributions%2F&h=AT0ujbz6jmKF8sBnobYSOUeBrgs37veXsE9Cve3vKmWfClzVcVIaIMXxQy_c0_tfbP1v26k8hRsX2HAWCpccyH6uLfjZV6KljmtYgJZj34sAmInjvtV5ZQIbHc5qeTPduYb68YHsr_VOoyC8r0L70llxpuzDCNZP4JyGyu25Kio" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="async">https://syrinscape.com/attributions/</a> <br /> <br /> 7SD<br /> 7SidedDie<br /> "7 Sided Die"<br /> 7_Sided_Die<br /> "Seven Sided Die"<br /> Seven_Sided_Die<br /> DnD<br /> D&D<br /> "dnd stories"<br /> "d&d stories"<br /> "dnd gameplay"<br /> "d&d gameplay"<br /> "dnd campaign"<br /> "d&d campaign"<br /> "dnd podcast"<br /> "d&d podcast"<br /> "Dungeons & Dragons"<br /> "Dungeons and Dragons"<br /> "DnD stream"<br /> "D&D stream"<br /> "DnD live stream"<br /> "D&D live stream"<br /> "Dungeons & Dragons stream"<br /> "Dungeons and Dragons stream"<br /> "D&D tips"<br /> "DnD tips"<br /> 5e<br /> "5th edition"<br /> Carpathia<br /> Carpathian<br /> "Carpathian Adventure"<br /> "Grumblings of a Gaming Grognard"<br /> GoaGG<br /> "Ximen Vall"<br /> "Ximén Vall"<br /> "Naldo Renzi"<br /> Ximén<br /> Balder<br /> "Alderic Westerbach"<br /> "Pandor Spocks"<br /> "Micolash Dolion"<br /> "Gelila Bemnet"<br /> "Borinth Ursus Spalaeus"<br /> "The Baron"<br /> "Mátyás Báthory"<br /> "Matyas Bathory"<br /> RPG<br /> "Role Playing Game"<br /> Tabletop<br /> "Table top"<br /> "Tabletop RPG"<br /> "How to play D&D"<br /> "Tom Jr"<br /> "Tom Frickanisce Jr"<br /> "Rainer Frickanisce"<br /> <br /> 7SD,<br /> 7SidedDie,<br /> 7 Sided Die,<br /> 7_Sided_Die,<br /> Seven Sided Die",<br /> Seven_Sided_Die,<br /> DnD,<br /> D&D,<br /> dnd stories,<br /> d&d stories.<br /> dnd gameplay,<br /> d&d gameplay,<br /> dnd campaign,<br /> d&d campaign,<br /> dnd podcast,<br /> d&d podcast,<br /> Dungeons & Dragons,<br /> Dungeons and Dragons,<br /> DnD stream,<br /> D&D stream,<br /> DnD live stream,<br /> D&D live stream,<br /> Dungeons & Dragons stream,<br /> Dungeons and Dragons stream,<br /> D&D tips,<br /> DnD tips,<br /> 5e,<br /> 5th edition,<br /> Carpathia,<br /> Carpathian,<br /> Carpathian Adventure,<br /> Grumblings of a Gaming Grognard,<br /> GoaGG,<br /> Ximen Vall,<br /> Ximén Vall,<br /> Ximén,<br /> Naldo Renzi<br /> Balder,<br /> Pandora Spocks,<br /> Alderic Westerbach,<br /> Micolash Dolion,<br /> Gelila Bemnet,<br /> Borinth Ursus Spalaeus,<br /> The Baron,<br /> Mátyás Báthory,<br /> Matyas Bathory,<br /> RPG,<br /> Role Playing Game,<br /> Tabletop,<br /> Table top,<br /> Tabletop RPG,<br /> How to play D&D,<br /> Tom Jr,<br /> Tom Frickanisce Jr,<br /> Rainer Frickanisce, | 7 Sided Die | 475 | https://facebook.com/100067198293097 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1714028400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846635 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 6/3/25, 11:21 AM | 1717446605 | 1748967681 | 890 | 460583863096593 | 1 | 2.2697866166945E+15 | 1715842800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 100617233102020 | 0 | Kf-help.com | 120208148561470625 | onlinehol.com | Shop now | NONE | image | onlinehol.com | Bored of standard dice rolling This unique crossbow is a functional dice roller It s compartment can hold up to 1 set of standard sized polyhedral dices The loading mechanism allows you to lock the catch with 1 swift motion Use the trigger to release the dice It is recommended to aim the crossbow sl... | https://www.onlinehol.com/products/crossbow-dice-roller---holder | 1715852392 | 1.0061723310202E+14 | Kf-help.com | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436491184_407493838817995_6546935401735937741_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rNByTP01bqIQ7kNvgFsSOYv&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAehySXkI6WJJR8Cgtpbn6iKVSj8IHuv8NYaYqXumHrIg&oe=6663E040 | person_profile | 0 | Kf-help.com | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441546759_789437919830070_8903928330159575170_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=G_YuxKfqcvIQ7kNvgHyjUsr&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBVTIp4UWB-wJGB0hDnelgA1DlKLTsXHDo_gnDrDbx90Q&oe=6663E9DB | 0 | 3 | 🎲Bored of standard dice rolling? This unique crossbow is a functional dice roller. It's compartment can hold up to 1 set of standard sized polyhedral dices. | Kf-help.com | 1 | https://facebook.com/100094257708541 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715842800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846627 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/23/25, 6:41 PM | 1717446605 | 1742773307 | 890 | 1366399284010186 | 1 | 9.7750448377186E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 308407519018808 | 0 | Sports Junction Outdoor 3-D Archery Course | 6586684300872 | Call now | NONE | multi_images | 1716400944 | 3.0840751901881E+14 | Sports Junction Outdoor 3-D Archery Course | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/443711735_453549923990454_2156250577820350316_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=439zYiCytnEQ7kNvgHPzfiU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBdaF62wuBLCoJbpUVhoVYs0LzXCabTanHEPt4d5g96WA&oe=6663E7BA | person_profile | 0 | Sports Junction Outdoor 3-D Ar | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/443712181_1738766346930450_7462637188074182199_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Zd7BBb-guxwQ7kNvgE5Rajo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDg9JZKpjQWxWn7qb4XqauZ4Vc9aHLyc-OPirNWqBHFKQ&oe=66640758 | 0 | 3 | Sign ups for 3D League are offically open! We made some changes this year so make sure to read the rules! Stop by the store or shoot us a message to get signed up for either league!!<br /> #ohioammo #ohioarchery #matthews #hunting #archery #ohiofishing #fishing #ohiohunting #ohioguns #compoundbow #ammo #ohio #northeastohio #crossbow #mathewsarchery #guns #tenpoint #wickedridge #hoyt #wickedridgecrossbows #tenpointcrossbows | Sports Junction Outdoor 3-D Archery Course | 29 | https://facebook.com/61558728433872 | 0 | CALL_NOW | 1716361200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846622 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/23/25, 11:16 PM | 1717446604 | 1742789768 | 890 | 767426358854608 | 4 | 9.6685660816079E+14 | 1716447600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 294124547122945 | 0 | Hazel Foster | 120208544253790301 | www.snouinwbing.top | Learn more | NONE | video | Choose it, embrace your powerful moments! | https://www.snouinwbing.top/products/dthgfgghfhfgjgjn | 1716445838 | 2.9412454712294E+14 | Hazel Foster | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/424775680_1908328316265740_2934996130977771533_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4y1KB4otQ3wQ7kNvgHye40j&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD_BL6AEqn6cuOBKK3m5t6iKoE7LRTc_0gVTNBDGpXtew&oe=66640F4B | person_profile | 0 | Hazel Foster | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442474593_821847052685576_2283451304156923931_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=FxYznKgasTQQ7kNvgHnwq0m&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYASFrpjtuupiS16l7ZMhYIKaPbqgx-nXS7xanXNkrdnTg&oe=66641278 | 0 | 3 | One drop unleashes male potential!<br /> ⚡️Unique formula, fully unleashes male energy.<br /> Choose it, embrace your powerful moments!<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.snouinwbing.top%2Fproducts%2Fdthgfgghfhfgjgjn&h=AT263RZhpKaHzuTpYK2EHMZJ0ZniNWmnzL_1UcMWN-FTECU4LxLM5wtVARAh_ZVDcTY0uuwoKHLlzUGIQvLK_yCLT6n2nyyQfrSwSHzX9HPY6pqQ8m-18OJ4L90uxdmtSXi90llFP5t_9sQHLVT7XQBdgBzvyw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.snouinwbing.top/products/dthgfgghfhfgjgjn</a> | Hazel Foster | 26 | https://facebook.com/61558846038002 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846531 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 12:02 AM | 1717446602 | 1742792539 | 890 | 767711045537261 | 1 | 1.6910516183222E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 829322687259997 | 0 | WoodTrick | 120209451364340135 | instagram.com | Visit Instagram profile | NONE | video | http://instagram.com/woodtrick | 1717315872 | 8.2932268726E+14 | WoodTrick | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436197135_1625203124999012_1625938402698097647_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gYefscatGA4Q7kNvgE3K4rd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDwavS9613Slx9kXGOYz6B--nMGxw8CY0pHjMmt-YnEBw&oe=6663E47E | person_profile | 0 | WoodTrick / Engineering joy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444502603_1172112047158297_7278142160568442505_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KfAPDkls0ZAQ7kNvgFgjzJN&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBrNgQnOmm-uR0WkvMpfpWEERAR60gbkK_7Z4bj9VhNHQ&oe=6663FF14 | 0 | 3 | NEW 😍 NEW 😍 NEW<br /> Introducing the Bullet Boltcaster, a captivating gadget straight out of #medieval knight adventures!<br /> <br /> ▫️411 pieces<br /> ▫️DIY & interactive<br /> ▫️assembly time 6-8 hours<br /> ▫️works with soft bullets<br /> ▫️20 bullets in the kit<br /> ▫️level MASTERS<br /> <br /> Snag the nowelty at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwoodtrick.com%2F&h=AT3qeXUzA2p-iNVxDYbr1rTTzI0WL3mqar_a76r3oeVlJMPhPGWLNX1fCKYChVzLrktD70WPy6Cfs6AaAfKnPOY5Ss_4IfKt6o7FrwPTg95uq0SKeQ4FWP2JTlkKtjDx1npZmzknXDx63EPkR7nKBUEb6wMkWQ" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">woodtrick.com</a> 💫<br /> <br /> #woodtrick #mechanical #3d #newmodel #bullet #boltcaster #crossbow #engineering | WoodTrick | 8721 | https://facebook.com/woodtrick | 0 | VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE | 1717311600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846636 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 12:38 AM | 1717446605 | 1742794699 | 890 | 1198294324932533 | 3 | 2.1020640601695E+15 | 1715842800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 100617233102020 | 0 | Kf-help.com | 120208148564350625 | onlinehol.com | Shop now | NONE | image | onlinehol.com | Bored of standard dice rolling This unique crossbow is a functional dice roller It s compartment can hold up to 1 set of standard sized polyhedral dices The loading mechanism allows you to lock the catch with 1 swift motion Use the trigger to release the dice It is recommended to aim the crossbow sl... | https://www.onlinehol.com/products/crossbow-dice-roller---holder | 1715852394 | 1.0061723310202E+14 | Kf-help.com | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436495129_1660650907807329_8982746398740936113_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rAuwRgVQhGcQ7kNvgHmjDaX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYATJDVFZ4q4OKHgG6J_GaSiiYvJE7E-8NOu82lIf1R4Zw&oe=66640F11 | person_profile | 0 | Kf-help.com | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436309843_336232389209591_5088255170885727825_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Dn1p3sVSR3AQ7kNvgFfRWsn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDSbVNMtGviz5UY7DQS7l59eJOlMMlKF6GDdYhD2fi7tA&oe=666412E9 | 0 | 3 | 🎲Bored of standard dice rolling? This unique crossbow is a functional dice roller. It's compartment can hold up to 1 set of standard sized polyhedral dices. | Kf-help.com | 1 | https://facebook.com/100094257708541 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715842800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846645 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 1:07 AM | 1717446605 | 1742796455 | 890 | 1196589551330822 | 4 | 1.0567316993724E+15 | 1715929200 | person_profile | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 318741617983690 | 0 | Claire Clark | 120207428383310741 | www.bootstounrap.top | Learn more | NONE | video | Choose it, embrace your powerful moments! | https://www.bootstounrap.top/products/dthgfgghfhfgjgjn | 1715834321 | 3.1874161798369E+14 | Claire Clark | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441520408_832160652294230_5915594295398628468_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4_8IFVFkvc0Q7kNvgE9zukU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDuDHXd0E-pPN2e9QCz_3zRCNjQrqQei964MeS5uggFqw&oe=6663F8A0 | person_profile | 0 | Claire Clark | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441581547_434739895966393_3605110866312949330_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xORTJ4k3os0Q7kNvgHk3TLt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAiw9ptLdj19vOgUO_nzMPPzU4lKrkEt5bosr41qMjI2Q&oe=666403A3 | 0 | 3 | One drop unleashes male potential!<br /> ⚡️Unique formula, fully unleashes male energy.<br /> Choose it, embrace your powerful moments!<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bootstounrap.top%2Fproducts%2Fdthgfgghfhfgjgjn&h=AT1Y8uSqviX_uF5qizEa0kjcNr_O1dSy0L8ZZp5Z_hBt8LH3LTHIkS2l0vH0TThgAFW8ucMI785pdzF4l0OATn7tzC7RaRyK96xxgbPvCJpQ4ny1tqYVDsAiE91Tj-Xc7EByzDxLqRQyW0l19ONWqdb3YU4Lqg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.bootstounrap.top/products/dthgfgghfhfgjgjn</a> | Claire Clark | 16 | https://facebook.com/61559233052703 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715929200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846833 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 3:07 AM | 1717446612 | 1742803647 | 890 | 1148796649895706 | 1 | 1.1672077580207E+15 | 1712214000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 107089802492332 | 0 | Dauos | 120210526848470311 | thedauos.com | Shop now | NONE | video | Satisfied Customers ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | https://thedauos.com/products/dauos-mount | 1711680628 | 1.0708980249233E+14 | Dauos | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433105670_237260529408116_4453193951390437117_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=a3cthgEUnmAQ7kNvgEmxLpp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBgOKdk_aPc7oNq0PxS6sPRnriYEmb5C-qYgTuXl2Wxaw&oe=6663F294 | person_profile | 0 | Dauos | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433245875_963960865231390_3822452704612978330_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vESrbNKODdQQ7kNvgGKCAzb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAx2oNRFMCEAgqFCHmdlrR_K2XMG4DGaNAaxwG7b2o-CA&oe=6664011C | 0 | 3 | Upgrade Your Hunting Game! 🌳 Mount your smartphone on any rifle or crossbow and record stunning videos. Stay connected in the wilderness, grab yours today! <br /> <br /> Hurry, grab your set today! 👉 <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fthedauos.com%2Fdauos_mount&h=AT3ZIqx9aqx1w5b6fp4wsbCKYhPYNTONcpY9hnfok-TOcQw0Pb0Uo0KjuhlPAgFyRbGLbMqt2D1kN9wqGMr-IHY7ACewQeF2FBrRaUOo4TqsJnpCkC2PfSHl4U2Ql7cVE7br2U-EJH2cpqidVCot6BEEXxTtPA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://thedauos.com/dauos_mount</a> | Dauos | 417 | https://facebook.com/61550049947721 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1711609200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846634 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 3:17 AM | 1717446605 | 1742804275 | 890 | 1124293442131338 | 1 | 3.7507864085336E+15 | 1717311600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 101311661602625 | 0 | Green Lake Chiropractic Center | 120210581493660772 | Send message | NONE | video | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"What services do you offer?"},{"title":"How much do your services cost?"},{"title":"Can I book an appointment?"}],"quick_replies":[],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"image_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"template","payload":{"template_type":"generic","elements":[{"title":"","buttons":[]}]}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"video_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"video","payload":{"attachment_id":""}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"user_edit":false,"surface":"visual_editor_new","ai_generated_welcome_message_impression":false,"has_ai_generated_welcome_message":false} | 1715960034 | 1.0131166160262E+14 | Green Lake Chiropractic Center | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442386639_435370302532342_4570835367202860746_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=S40N07ykd34Q7kNvgFd1l20&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC6bMQV7rMhnwJCr9RcmqAHR2scdHKGj5-90IHSYtlLPw&oe=6663F9E9 | person_profile | 0 | Green Lake Chiropractic Center | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442407318_3514934685433703_1986215194534330366_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Wit022G9u0AQ7kNvgG8FYyS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAFIJMuqhiQIihOJKoIZTdfEKXoyHmMLRbZeuh1y4_ypg&oe=666405B5 | 0 | 3 | 📣 NEW! Digital X-Ray assists us in identifying the issues that need primary care faster and more effectively! You don’t have to make another appointment, wait for results, and then start care. We can fast-track this process for you here at GLCC! | Green Lake Chiropractic Center | 1107 | https://facebook.com/greenlakechiro | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1715929200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846605 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 8:07 AM | 1717446604 | 1742821655 | 890 | 384413770659936 | 2 | 8.2079688950104E+14 | 1717225200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 104238192067446 | 0 | Fox'oclock | 120207493653720147 | watchingtvnow.com | Learn more | NONE | image | 36+ Mind-Blowing Fan Theories About Disney Movies | Watching a Disney movie when you're an adult, is a completely different experience from watching it when you were a child. Suddenly, new details seem so obvious and darker themes unveil themselves. After rewatching their favorite movies, these fans realized the films they thought they knew had inter... | https://watchingtvnow.com/disney-fan-theories-bt/ | 1716952221 | 1.0423819206745E+14 | Fox'oclock | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/446997275_1520173918533917_3871352080680496662_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZSPVnLsJ1LAQ7kNvgERtp5H&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCnG16JESY_9F0RfqE1iHnBleTF7f10BtZfN-jXaLxefQ&oe=666406A2 | person_profile | 0 | Fox'oclock | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/446983666_488960683486580_8751019397594384040_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SIPJAFjKgvQQ7kNvgHDEWBP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDZyYv6Mi9Hycdc_ObTi6IJTH9W6Gch-EGRdqE5AxjEIw&oe=6663ED78 | 0 | 3 | These mind-blowing Disney fan theories are so twisted, you won't believe what you're about to read. | Fox'oclock | 4714 | https://facebook.com/100076064792214 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846653 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 8:31 AM | 1717446605 | 1742823116 | 890 | 975213914193846 | 3 | 8.6055901249016E+14 | 1715842800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250777461461941 | 0 | Caroline Gomez | 120208365229120368 | www.bootstounrap.top | Learn more | NONE | video | Choose it, embrace your powerful moments! | https://www.bootstounrap.top/products/dthgfgghfhfgjgjn | 1715759466 | 2.5077746146194E+14 | Caroline Gomez | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442473422_296590016856180_7608366046541999719_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Nx49mmxJX6EQ7kNvgEJa3jh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCPNPFH0CSB7wPVSmRU91DcTrV6YXmrRmY3MSA0syejSw&oe=666411E6 | person_profile | 0 | Caroline Gomez | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442479842_1593421981501645_1220531524314460951_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=djtfYj6sJO0Q7kNvgEq29yE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCUjcU4pkB0ncctZPi627VbhukSutaN1m_1hcW7YNtTfQ&oe=6663E9F1 | 0 | 3 | One drop unleashes male potential!<br /> ⚡️Unique formula, fully unleashes male energy.<br /> Choose it, embrace your powerful moments!<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bootstounrap.top%2Fproducts%2Fdthgfgghfhfgjgjn&h=AT1im3gGdZFWPNdSheUNSZ_Nd4biBpTQR2kgqrw-H9v1Ul4VS8BVGqd5xPOAtrQN_btaCmjCqBmucKHdSAeFcbxZRdWw-6Wrf9LX_OS_6N8Eup03vu0afMU3HF6_IUZFwzctw8WeOSUnEfNyHM9b0IJg1b8WAw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.bootstounrap.top/products/dthgfgghfhfgjgjn</a> | Caroline Gomez | 37 | https://facebook.com/61559259991872 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715756400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846734 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 8:46 AM | 1717446608 | 1742823963 | 890 | 973972640342932 | 1 | 1.6504130657881E+15 | 1713769200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1242051515818167 | 0 | Steambow | 120209010226110699 | steambow.at | Learn more | NONE | video | https://steambow.at/en | 1713111099 | 1.2420515158182E+15 | Steambow | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435885200_434826069088605_1672702391766715703_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uQgjhGh7C8EQ7kNvgGl9qYd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBSM9PmnlMGCdjfkJUVi3kXXh3QJaO5u5TQbtyVSmGw1A&oe=6663F749 | person_profile | 0 | Steambow GmbH | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435700083_345780984658049_3726018600163561903_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=txoND8tBc4kQ7kNvgHbZ-xP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAeA6EhocrnI3lC9hAQZH7i5JWp7Az7TWhvvsfzdVmvXg&oe=66640A57 | 0 | 3 | Steambow - Premium Archery Equipment<br /> FENRIS - Compoundbow with magazine<br /> AR-6 Tactical, Compact - Crossbow with magazine<br /> and much more...<br /> <br /> See more on our website:<br /> <br /> 🇬🇧 <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fsteambow.at%2Fen&h=AT3VObZnqyB2zbSn01oQIem_jxmN6C69rz2Bvr6tEM3_lN8fkkT7ZjnYa1ykycBUbTkgvQLvdm8BT2LbtQNcmqoHpEH14uvq7ZeR1APSEQvZYrxI8ntW8pSYBPCRUw0jFQcKIIUshXvNgejozzcVD64idDdd8Q" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://steambow.at/en</a><br /> 🇩🇪 <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fsteambow.at%2F&h=AT06y3uD8fMBtTeShax9PSw-DdWrrH-qT9TZ9-aztvJ5eotpSus5_F2m2YaQtL1Xry9thAq64CBQMppkHDtdEvePWk24alHkhjb7Fpjkstg67hD2zYH4qTcNWhp_M1uvjCLxH-cgyBZoYHqVSPUy5p-OW8rejw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://steambow.at/</a><br /> 🇫🇷 <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fsteambow.at%2Ffr&h=AT3KN5lFjAqHLJFTm4wFe9viInhpFKI7xstOQy4NEfEK4qUK4kBlY_g1_2bpcc4zC658fHSwhmeFnhjZVL2LdUxK3Id2sHtzyXLK8fbXUJdxnawA5cbq530J6cKYQDM8VXQPSPYlZVbCA9YfZoXEHdMH-yYYbg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://steambow.at/fr</a><br /> 🇮🇹 <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fsteambow.at%2Fit&h=AT3-lKoo9WwiEsEiBHuGts-NS_2eYIYASRFhPT8gX5K1gCLmxvHsoxe2qTbradEw04xWYT3My25TAn8ku7V3rRwqyjtZzVkfPUGdthXJQ_14FVF0b112UAoHh7gzNapw5JtAJ-dg4iX3L3hJg-786u7Yibkuxg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://steambow.at/it</a><br /> 🇺🇸 🇨🇦 <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fsteambow.com%2F&h=AT0eQ2m8L1MY1-4aitRvlsVca1LwKjA0Yr_9oyoyqkyLNY9FjWkT0mBCBzOCtXSMZ48Yhez2Gvu4kqzlZzC6n50h5oIWDBSs2Hzr39tTSY7sBzygymKmcVRwuvbSnEiZUPSYCJqmXkrzUF9BTSjuPWDZflNWwA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://steambow.com/</a><br /> <br /> #steambow #steambowusa #steambowpower #steambowfenris #steambowstinger #steambowtactical #steambowcompact #premiumarcheryequipment #archery #archerypractice #archerylifestyle #archerylife #archeryseason #archerygirl #bogensport #bogensportextrem #tiralarc #crossbow #xbow #arbalete #whatgetsyououtdoors #whatgetsyououtside #sportsequipment #sportsgear #outdoorgear #targetpractice #balestra #compoundbow #compoundbowshooting #bogenschießen | Steambow | 1169 | https://facebook.com/Steambow | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713078000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846528 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 1:19 PM | 1717446602 | 1742840346 | 890 | 3319771278326695 | 1 | 4.7015607222557E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 432976013574610 | 0 | RW Safaris International | 6592954565332 | Send Message | NONE | carousel | RW Safaris International | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":null,"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you."}},"user_edit":true,"autofill_message_edited":false,"ice_breakers_edited":false,"welcome_message_edited":true,"surface":"boosted_post"} | 1717328340 | 4.3297601357461E+14 | RW Safaris International | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445027056_764491192521646_3807607392191323228_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qO7WAcvnJDIQ7kNvgFVRdvE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCWO2GO_jDzVT3T0_xP_P6F9pdYI_uvQduFvvdapqZdbw&oe=6663EB48 | person_profile | 0 | Rick Wolvaardt | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447052545_1099112034480948_3993123503900440941_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4X0MTDR0_mIQ7kNvgEAb8Fo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBzkpdATb0Py5TDsSK2IUudoh3z1D3GVhiVwCGXEGzQcw&oe=6663E573 | 0 | 3 | RW Safaris International | 8117 | https://facebook.com/RWSafarisinternational | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1717311600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846526 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 2:50 PM | 1717446602 | 1742845827 | 890 | 3389617281347677 | 1 | 2.5773942328919E+16 | 1717398000 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 326214797239186 | 0 | Todd Schnack | 120209862931950617 | Contact us | NONE | image | Nintendo Wii (modchipped), four controllers, two Motion Plus attachments and more | https://facebook.com/marketplace/item/1242152683758672/ | 1717347638 | 3.2621479723919E+14 | Todd Schnack | regular_page | 1 | Todd Schnack | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/447242861_775340288014493_7806808333402400388_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IGuiUiwY70AQ7kNvgHVcuDj&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBV0pE9XcuvmAxRIK2_wPN-VyTzTGR803UcM2GCtGoalA&oe=6663F37A | 0 | 3 | Nintendo Wii (modchipped), four controllers, two Motion Plus attachments and more - $250.00<br /> <br /> Nintendo Wii Console (modchipped) and a lot of accessories and games! Works great.<br /> <br /> Includes:<br /> - Wii console, power adapter, AV cables, sensor bar<br /> - Four standard white Wii remotes.<br /> - Two Wii MotionPlus adapters.<br /> - Four nunchuks:<br /> - four Wii remote silicone covers, two extended covers<br /> - Wii Classic Controller (white).<br /> - two Wii Zapper accessories for holding the Wii remotes in a guun configuration<br /> - one guun accessory with a blue handle, likely for shooting games.<br /> - Guitar Hero controller<br /> <br /> Games and Software:<br /> - Original Game Discs:<br /> - Wii Sports Resort<br /> - Link's Crossbow Training<br /> <br /> A CD case with playable game backups:<br /> - Super Paper Mario<br /> - Punch-Out!! (Wii)<br /> - Wii Sports Resort<br /> - Boomblox Bash Party (Wii)<br /> - House of the Dead: Overkill<br /> - Lego Star Wars: The Complete Saga<br /> - Guitar Hero: Metallica<br /> - COD: Modern Warfare Reflex<br /> - Guitar Hero 3<br /> - Rock Band Track Pack Vol #1<br /> - Guitar Hero: Smash Hits<br /> - Rock Band Track Pack Vol #2<br /> - Guitar Hero: World Tour<br /> - Okami<br /> - Dead Space Extraction<br /> - Resident Evil 4: Wii Edition<br /> Facebook Marketplace | Todd Schnack | 0 | /marketplace/?seller_profile=1593822725 | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1717311600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846533 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 4:02 PM | 1717446602 | 1742850131 | 890 | 827269198733144 | 1 | 3.6947389232766E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 968299339903647 | 0 | The Village Blacksmith | 6586986422355 | Fathers Day Weekend Dual Wielding Tomahawks Class | INTERESTED | NONE | event | Fathers Day Weekend Dual Wielding Tomahawks Class | Father’s Day weekend dual tomahawk class. Students will, in two days, forge 2 fully functioning tomahawks including handles. Hawks will be fully heat treated and tempered. The hawks will be made from high carbon steel Farrier rasps which will add a unique texture. Students can opt for a flame finished handle or a more refined version. An additional participant can team up at an anvil with a fee, allowing teams of two to split the cost and each get a hawk if they wish. Afterwards we will test the tomahawks Forged in Fire style with a chop test and throwing test. Includes lunch and refreshments for both days, Village Blacksmith t-shirt, all materials, tools and safety gear. **SKILL LEVEL: INTERMEDIATE (some forging experience recommended ) What: Hand Forged DUAL Tomahawk Workshop Where: Village Blacksmith 6641 Gloucester Street Gloucester, VA 23061 When: Father’s Day Weekend June 15-16 9:00 AM- 4PM ish all days Why: To Challenge yourself and instill the knowledge to create something from nothing with your bare hands that lasts generations and is of the utmost useful quality, applicable to both pre and post apocalypse scenarios and… also to create a useful tool to go camping. What is provided? Class Admission & Elevation in Society Personal Pair of safety Glasses (students get to keep) Village Blacksmith T-Shirt All Tooling, materials, and safety gear needed for the class to create “axe magic” Lunch for both days , light refreshments and coffee Memories and skills for a lifetime. Requirements Since this is an intermediate level course it is recommended that students have prior forging knowledge to get the most out of the course. Students who have completed our 1 or 3 day basic Blacksmithing class or alike are adequately prepared for this intensive workshop. Other requirements: Leather boots (steel toe preferred) Cotton based clothing preferred Students can bring their own safety gear and tools with them if they wish Desire and willingness to learn Strong work ethic Strong sense of humor (any students not displaying sense of humor maybe subject of testing of axe) Refund policy: Because of the the complexities and logistics involved, these axe classes cannot and will not be able to be rescheduled or transferred to another class. Therefore, a full refund will be issued (minus a $50 restocking fee) if given at minimum 30 days notice. If given less than 30 days notice a non refundable $200 restocking fee will be applied. No shows are non refundable. Any unforeseen cancelations by The Village Blacksmith will be refunded 100%. Teams Teams of 2 can share an anvil with the creation of 1 axe per team member for an additional $75 per person. (For example: A Father - Son team would pay a total of $625 to both partake in the class and share tools to create 1 axe each as a team to keep costs down) Instructor: George Cramer George is the owner and craftsman behind the Village Blacksmith. He has over 21 years blacksmithing experience and over 26 all together in the metals industry. He is an award winning business owner, artist and craftsman. He won Discovery Channel’s Master of Arms competition S1E7 Arbalest Crossbow IN 2018. He has done work for the NPS, film industry, corporations and private clients. He served in the U.S. Navy as a metal worker and later became a welding instructor at a technical college before starting the Village Blacksmith, LLC. He teaches classes at his forge of which he has taught over 1,000 students the craft of blacksmithing since 2015. | https://www.facebook.com/events/304629459340353/ | 1717265836 | 9.6829933990365E+14 | The Village Blacksmith | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442468915_1509230466359246_336025641804938095_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=R4nWWoRKbkUQ7kNvgEsjMvH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCC0LXZJ50VjWkJwoxmGIYFwL0d1HLo4kxpzOeoNBDt9Q&oe=6663E4CD | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Father’s Day weekend dual tomahawk class. Students will, in two days, forge 2 fully functioning tomahawks including handles. Hawks will be fully heat treated and tempered. The hawks will be made from high carbon steel Farrier rasps which will add a unique texture. Students can opt for a flame finished handle or a more refined version. An additional participant can team up at an anvil with a fee, allowing teams of two to split the cost and each get a hawk if they wish. Afterwards we will test the tomahawks Forged in Fire style with a chop test and throwing test. Includes lunch and refreshments for both days, Village Blacksmith t-shirt, all materials, tools and safety gear. <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> **SKILL LEVEL: INTERMEDIATE (some forging experience recommended )<br /> <br /> What: Hand Forged DUAL Tomahawk Workshop<br /> <br /> Where: Village Blacksmith 6641 Gloucester Street Gloucester, VA 23061<br /> <br /> When: Father’s Day Weekend June 15-16<br /> <br /> 9:00 AM- 4PM ish all days <br /> <br /> Why: To Challenge yourself and instill the knowledge to create something from nothing with your bare hands that lasts generations and is of the utmost useful quality, applicable to both pre and post apocalypse scenarios and… also to create a useful tool to go camping.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> What is provided?<br /> <br /> Class Admission & Elevation in Society<br /> <br /> Personal Pair of safety Glasses (students get to keep)<br /> <br /> Village Blacksmith T-Shirt<br /> <br /> All Tooling, materials, and safety gear needed for the class to create “axe magic”<br /> <br /> Lunch for both days , light refreshments and coffee<br /> <br /> Memories and skills for a lifetime.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Requirements <br /> <br /> Since this is an intermediate level course it is recommended that students have prior forging knowledge to get the most out of the course. Students who have completed our 1 or 3 day basic Blacksmithing class or alike are adequately prepared for this intensive workshop. <br /> <br /> Other requirements:<br /> <br /> Leather boots (steel toe preferred)<br /> <br /> Cotton based clothing preferred<br /> <br /> Students can bring their own safety gear and tools with them if they wish<br /> <br /> Desire and willingness to learn<br /> <br /> Strong work ethic<br /> <br /> Strong sense of humor (any students not displaying sense of humor maybe subject of testing of axe)<br /> <br /> Refund policy: Because of the the complexities and logistics involved, these axe classes cannot and will not be able to be rescheduled or transferred to another class. Therefore, a full refund will be issued (minus a $50 restocking fee) if given at minimum 30 days notice. If given less than 30 days notice a non refundable $200 restocking fee will be applied. No shows are non refundable. Any unforeseen cancelations by The Village Blacksmith will be refunded 100%.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Teams<br /> <br /> Teams of 2 can share an anvil with the creation of 1 axe per team member for an additional $75 per person. (For example: A Father - Son team would pay a total of $625 to both partake in the class and share tools to create 1 axe each as a team to keep costs down) <br /> <br /> Instructor:<br /> <br /> George Cramer<br /> <br /> George is the owner and craftsman behind the Village Blacksmith. He has over 21 years blacksmithing experience and over 26 all together in the metals industry. He is an award winning business owner, artist and craftsman. He won Discovery Channel’s Master of Arms competition S1E7 Arbalest Crossbow IN 2018. He has done work for the NPS, film industry, corporations and private clients. He served in the U.S. Navy as a metal worker and later became a welding instructor at a technical college before starting the Village Blacksmith, LLC. He teaches classes at his forge of which he has taught over 1,000 students the craft of blacksmithing since 2015. | The Village Blacksmith | 6374 | https://facebook.com/handforgedsteel | 0 | EVENT_RSVP | 1717225200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846592 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 4:48 PM | 1717446604 | 1742852931 | 890 | 970728484840111 | 1 | 7.7460709320986E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 216867632170506 | 0 | Hunter's Wholesale | 120209162281160213 | hunterswholesale.net | Learn more | NONE | image | Take The Quiz To Find Out! | Quiz developed by hunters - for hunters! | https://hunterswholesale.net/pages/the-best-tenpoint-crossbow-for-you | 1717180405 | 2.1686763217051E+14 | Hunter's Wholesale | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445356440_833077618706321_541711183530325937_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=89MvKcg751oQ7kNvgFX3B4R&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDFhTvBUGYQWwAOcI2h2C5seySWu9RRVbFgCkI-6cCYpg&oe=666407D0 | person_profile | 0 | Hunter's Wholesale | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428684771_379387017891514_95137047044109510_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=68rn4m6RP5cQ7kNvgFzlF-H&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDcNre77j6whJxDVs3NJlZV9vpR4-xejK9L_7ACuCnLVA&oe=6663FBFC | 0 | 3 | What is the best TenPoint crossbow available for today's hunters?<br /> <br /> Experience the thrill of hunting with ease! Discover the best TenPoint crossbow available for today's hunters.<br /> <br /> Say goodbye to missed shots and hello to a successful hunt with our top-of-the-line crossbows. | Hunter's Wholesale | 4536 | https://facebook.com/hunterswholesale | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717138800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846834 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 4:51 PM | 1717446612 | 1742853087 | 890 | 1387918041869303 | 1 | 1.4757041932206E+15 | 1712214000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 107089802492332 | 0 | Dauos | 120210526848440311 | thedauos.com | Shop now | NONE | video | Satisfied Customers ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | https://thedauos.com/products/dauos-mount | 1711680627 | 1.0708980249233E+14 | Dauos | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432145039_433386239091946_2713802964859442976_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=czsQJvm7V2YQ7kNvgFz2bAp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBKyveBu3jChZcVAHOIl-uNuGo0GAHi-2p3PPDrrDNFeQ&oe=666402B8 | person_profile | 0 | Dauos | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432215878_286842571115296_7979491564121629004_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RgY3L6-hvpsQ7kNvgFlfiqm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB_mG5dRPQg0MRsRJpJfuYd4boNKK-5qRvwjeJPQZak6w&oe=6663FBA1 | 0 | 3 | Upgrade Your Hunting Game! 🌳 Mount your smartphone on any rifle or crossbow and record stunning videos. Stay connected in the wilderness, grab yours today! <br /> <br /> Hurry, grab your set today! 👉 <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fthedauos.com%2Fdauos_mount&h=AT2xBu_X7XAnBm3cNHgc7tm--PiYrDFOr5hrBwTOwl-pq5Fn3-tiwImmPzrWQGu_N_ZH4HxbIAD0SMPueIMo48tBqvDehDRG-4g84FA7Cq5EMFOdOln9orI1VFM8-2ZWWq1NpeMyWIGR3PLu5cDuj1PccfRTX3EIeAkyAcpjgsA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="async">https://thedauos.com/dauos_mount</a> | Dauos | 417 | https://facebook.com/61550049947721 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1711609200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846603 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 5:25 PM | 1717446604 | 1742855155 | 890 | 465799092476506 | 1 | 2.1462479224192E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 121975151162832 | 0 | Slogan Outdoors | 120209964281700419 | www.sloganoutdoors.com | Shop now | NONE | video | Slogan Outdoors Slings | http://www.sloganoutdoors.com/ | 1717004397 | 1.2197515116283E+14 | Slogan Outdoors | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445413896_1964044344013126_8314406269589841780_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mSYzFqcfXNMQ7kNvgFHLtP0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBK7gJ_8lUhAmJdRj8agi54VH0o214e0N2tM6Va-vvpcQ&oe=6663E851 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | < Slogan Outdoors Slings ><br /> <br /> The original rubber gun sling and double strap backpack sling for over 30 years! Don't settle for cheap knock-offs! <br /> <br /> Non-Slip Sling - Backpack Sling - Shooting Sling<br /> <br /> Made in America, by Americans! Backed by a Forever Guarantee!<br /> <br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sloganoutdoors.com%2Fslings&h=AT36AhLZMiXDDxj0naxFe_omb4M-1jlBbbUv8IxvijzFLx0jZlR9uyzl18alT8lnIsv084Iuhe5EveUQhVCxYm3e_5DekUK2zUes1KXJJyDHPEoUBcR1W6-xDly9n4UjduSKakJ8SFAsrNsT305LBE_Rmsyelg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.sloganoutdoors.com/slings</a><br /> <br /> Slogan Outdoors' Slings stretch to fit comfortably gripping your shoulder under tension, keeping your weapon securely on your shoulder. The elasticity of the material and the unique double strap design allows the outer strap to be stretched over your head and placed on to your opposite shoulder. This move brings you into a 3/4 backpack position, completely securing your weapon. As a shooting sling you can go into multiple positions without making any adjustments to the length of the sling. The sling can also be extended in length to become a front and ready carry sling.<br /> <br /> All our slings are constructed of a high-grade synthetic rubber. This material has a life expectancy of 40+ years without dry rot. This sling is impervious to the weather, quiet, non-slip, shock-absorbing, UV stabilized, and stays flexible to -40 degrees below zero. Also a closed cell material, preventing it from absorbing scents. @followers<br /> <br /> Sling Size Guide:<br /> Deciding whether to choose the Ultraflex Sling or the Long Magnum Sling? This decision should be made by sizing the sling to its intended user. The reason being is ensuring the user has adequate room and comfort, due to our unique double strap system that offers our well known “3/4 backpack position.” <br /> <br /> **The Ultraflex Sling is for users wearing a t-shirt size small, medium, or large.**<br /> <br /> **The Long Magnum Sling is for users wearing a t-shirt size XL, 1X, or 2X.** <br /> <br /> (Note that we have taken layers and heavy clothing into account when we state this sizing guide.)<br /> <br /> *One exception to this is, Ultraflex users may decide to go to the Long Magnum if they have a gun approaching 10lbs or heavier.<br /> <br /> *One other exception is users that are wearing a t-shirt size XL and getting their sling strictly for their crossbow, may want to go with the Ultraflex Sling. Crossbows are very compact systems and it is important to keep the sling compact and away from interference. | Slogan Outdoors | 8071 | https://facebook.com/SloganOutdoors | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716966000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846591 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 6:13 PM | 1717446604 | 1742858015 | 890 | 755159720033883 | 1 | 3.3738959583352E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 107190605375247 | 0 | Homes for Sale in Your Area | 120209038971370511 | lauraallberg.coastalgatewayrealestate.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Thinking About A Move? | http://fb.me/ | 1717192705 | 1.0719060537525E+14 | Homes for Sale in Your Area | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442479199_1241802387229954_2655809643065272412_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=P364Qjt6OBAQ7kNvgHaheen&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBySf0OE6p_hyBBD9QHpWMVr0vZUeyOz8amHvvAGfDlEA&oe=66640461 | person_profile | 0 | Homes for Sale in Your Area | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444501608_1650223655804838_5320827076384088858_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Q-QhUKirfU0Q7kNvgGiWdkU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYADlwfbNXeld1lKZ_X7ZyjLsLzchhKRE6QeIpOYWvwIDw&oe=6663EF8B | 0 | 3 | Price: $1,099,000.00<br /> For Sale 5 BD / 3.5 BA in PALM COAST, FL! Click to see all pictures and more details now<br /> <br /> 12 Crossbow COURT | COASTAL GATEWAY REAL ESTATE GROUP | Homes for Sale in Your Area | 1691 | https://facebook.com/100083118888322 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1717138800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846621 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 3/24/25, 6:51 PM | 1717446604 | 1742860263 | 890 | 831540789026427 | 1 | 8.3112308888837E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100458418740759 | 0 | Pocket FM | 120210418447470552 | play.google.com | Install now | NONE | video | To find out, listen to the audioseries 'Rise of The Undead Legion' (FREE for a limited period of time) Click on the link below to download the PocketFM app, now! | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.radio.pocketfm | 1716480698 | 1.0045841874076E+14 | Pocket FM | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445180633_1180501249973026_4240729266671334014_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yhHpMF02n3UQ7kNvgFv26go&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD8igxSxs9vmMFcC828Jw4W_4LFS5Qi_lWY_zawIh7nbA&oe=6663E957 | person_profile | 0 | Pocket FM Dramas | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/443719151_1832549313909187_2951285407514143567_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SQf1DOKrRJUQ7kNvgHjn-ga&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAsgwPuD1d9VPVUoKxuWiEGvEUL9pljOTiN2SZj60TV1g&oe=6663F05A | 0 | 3 | Dave's life was going nowhere until he found his true purpose in virtual reality as leader of the Undead Kingdom. | Pocket FM | 82390 | https://facebook.com/pocketfmusa | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846602 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 5/1/25, 9:41 AM | 1717446604 | 1746110515 | 890 | 3695330994047860 | 1 | 1.1066655570642E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 121975151162832 | 0 | Slogan Outdoors | 120209966132270419 | Like Page | NONE | video | 1717010829 | 1.2197515116283E+14 | Slogan Outdoors | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445459377_1797719317382196_8818097990511549990_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sqgo4qpkgVoQ7kNvgEkf2XE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD6-xYZakG2DfIMCXQ1ME_cN9H6v3Ms4dYGL5LdjMdRkQ&oe=66640880 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | < Slogan Outdoors Slings ><br /> <br /> The original rubber gun sling and double strap backpack sling for over 30 years! Don't settle for cheap knock-offs! <br /> <br /> Non-Slip Sling - Backpack Sling - Shooting Sling<br /> <br /> Made in America, by Americans! Forever Guarantee!<br /> <br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sloganoutdoors.com%2Fslings&h=AT3cj15FxNDaUAaknh5oPmd-BCZRNSc42wUt8yp1wf4HQdWx1dUT772dcKg-Q2FOexc8NEBr4RD7g3FKLyDnSHThwwTfEX5c75mtPEnHTrpvwzbr7HwVMr6WXLDAb6jjzbvNlYgbZ5zBSUNsKHg_gq9MJewMQA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.sloganoutdoors.com/slings</a><br /> <br /> Slogan Outdoors Slings stretch to fit comfortably gripping your shoulder under tension, keeping your weapon securely on your shoulder. The elasticity of the material and the unique double strap design allows the outer strap to be stretched over your head and placed on to your opposite shoulder. This move brings you into a 3/4 backpack position, completely securing your weapon. As a shooting sling you can go into multiple positions without making any adjustments to the length of the sling. The sling can also be extended in length to become a front and ready carry sling.<br /> <br /> All our slings are constructed of a high-grade synthetic rubber. This material has a life expectancy of 40+ years without dry rot. This sling is impervious to the weather, quiet, non-slip, shock-absorbing, UV stabilized, and stays flexible to 40 degrees below zero.<br /> <br /> Sling Size Guide:<br /> Deciding whether to choose the Ultraflex Sling or the Long Magnum Sling? This decision should be made by sizing the sling to its intended user. The reason being is ensuring the user has adequate room and comfort, due to our unique double strap system that offers our well known “3/4 backpack position.” <br /> <br /> **The Ultraflex Sling is for users wearing a t-shirt size small, medium, or large.**<br /> <br /> **The Long Magnum Sling is for users wearing a t-shirt size XL, 1X, or 2X.** <br /> <br /> (Note that we have taken layers and heavy clothing into account when we state this sizing guide.)<br /> <br /> *One exception to this is, Ultraflex users may decide to go to the Long Magnum if they have a gun approaching 10lbs or heavier.<br /> <br /> *One other exception is users that are wearing a t-shirt size XL and getting their sling strictly for their crossbow, may want to go with the Ultraflex Sling. Crossbows are very compact systems and it is important to keep the sling compact and away from interference. | Slogan Outdoors | 8071 | https://facebook.com/SloganOutdoors | 0 | LIKE_PAGE | 1716966000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846604 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 5/2/25, 7:35 AM | 1717446604 | 1746189358 | 890 | 969176188208083 | 1 | 3.6529673450155E+15 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 121975151162832 | 0 | Slogan Outdoors | 120209963227480419 | www.sloganoutdoors.com | Shop now | NONE | video | Best Gun Slings Made | https://www.sloganoutdoors.com/ | 1717001144 | 1.2197515116283E+14 | Slogan Outdoors | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445464158_1201639541267958_7808327302243701664_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6kFlxAKqwGAQ7kNvgHYpz1q&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBvUDbfo4naCcs5eIzBhNtIMoPC3xVybgiPhEow7ucrVg&oe=6663E087 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | < Slogan Outdoors Slings ><br /> <br /> The original rubber gun sling and double strap backpack sling for over 30 years! Don't settle for cheap knock-offs! <br /> <br /> Non-Slip Sling - Backpack Sling - Shooting Sling<br /> <br /> Made in America, by Americans! Backed by a Forever Guarantee!<br /> <br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sloganoutdoors.com%2Fslings&h=AT3aE2EanV7UuRftWKpPEcfKkwJoWMqFhSf4sObbEYPhrPOyUBmFV0rBheJPqqm-XUnTwE5dIw9o93L6KBFSl8q2z9GHHMhjkOMHQe89n1GF0-VJtVS-6wPDnxKyEylJxOQKCle3ygPG4itrgTK0OWENKYkEkg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.sloganoutdoors.com/slings</a><br /> <br /> Slogan Outdoors' Slings stretch to fit comfortably gripping your shoulder under tension, keeping your weapon securely on your shoulder. The elasticity of the material and the unique double strap design allows the outer strap to be stretched over your head and placed on to your opposite shoulder. This move brings you into a 3/4 backpack position, completely securing your weapon. As a shooting sling you can go into multiple positions without making any adjustments to the length of the sling. The sling can also be extended in length to become a front and ready carry sling.<br /> <br /> All our slings are constructed of a high-grade synthetic rubber. This material has a life expectancy of 40+ years without dry rot. This sling is impervious to the weather, quiet, non-slip, shock-absorbing, UV stabilized, and stays flexible to -40 degrees below zero. Also a closed cell material, preventing it from absorbing scents. @followers<br /> <br /> Sling Size Guide:<br /> Deciding whether to choose the Ultraflex Sling or the Long Magnum Sling? This decision should be made by sizing the sling to its intended user. The reason being is ensuring the user has adequate room and comfort, due to our unique double strap system that offers our well known “3/4 backpack position.” <br /> <br /> **The Ultraflex Sling is for users wearing a t-shirt size small, medium, or large.**<br /> <br /> **The Long Magnum Sling is for users wearing a t-shirt size XL, 1X, or 2X.** <br /> <br /> (Note that we have taken layers and heavy clothing into account when we state this sizing guide.)<br /> <br /> *One exception to this is, Ultraflex users may decide to go to the Long Magnum if they have a gun approaching 10lbs or heavier.<br /> <br /> *One other exception is users that are wearing a t-shirt size XL and getting their sling strictly for their crossbow, may want to go with the Ultraflex Sling. Crossbows are very compact systems and it is important to keep the sling compact and away from interference. | Slogan Outdoors | 8071 | https://facebook.com/SloganOutdoors | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1716966000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846615 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 5/2/25, 6:20 PM | 1717446604 | 1746228021 | 890 | 250311194812025 | 2 | 4.2971087638131E+14 | 1716793200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 217316998627741 | 0 | Frost & Flame：King of Avalon | 120209480461230783 | play.google.com | Play game | NONE | video | Play for FREE! | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.funplus.kingofavalon | 1716260853 | 2.1731699862774E+14 | Frost & Flame：King of Avalon | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444139931_1601522330672576_5683509307933696079_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=iJeEpdYQ49YQ7kNvgHhZBLz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB1foeEbKbKOvBpRfRUARQFDhPbQs-dtPmbKNaEuhuWiQ&oe=666407C4 | person_profile | 0 | King of Avalon | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/444138247_473499698387965_7187832188173723945_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=296dftArCtYQ7kNvgHdX5SM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDkYi4Yq1YrsQw4vvrLNMemTmSJh3-ddL4wfmzodk6BQA&oe=6663FF1C | 0 | 3 | That Game Everyone's Playing! Join Now! | Frost & Flame：King of Avalon | 1213145 | https://facebook.com/koadw | 0 | PLAY_GAME | 1716447600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1846601 | 1 | active | 6/3/24, 3:30 PM | 5/2/25, 6:57 PM | 1717446604 | 1746230278 | 890 | 2091271947919104 | 1 | 4.3828138232172E+14 | 1717398000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100365976129594 | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | 120209568740140601 | itunes.apple.com | Play game | NONE | video | The winter is coming! | http://itunes.apple.com/app/id6446389130 | 1717040937 | 1.0036597612959E+14 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445736304_1676912559786831_6392234333068028108_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=W4-tJOnFgDcQ7kNvgG16GMB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDCi5LDGjaFR4A8iSoCgML7rrObI1D9k9W3Qo01Iu4tUQ&oe=6663E50A | person_profile | 0 | Puzzles & Chaos | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/445203024_1647950159291736_3825353252421553829_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=J-xoidExRfgQ7kNvgFdJUlg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAMkoXR1KY7sojWAzkUF_w50x6hiqOqs4Mi_ClVO_S5jQ&oe=666400AD | 0 | 3 | 💪Can you defend the white walkers? | Puzzles & Chaos | 13312 | https://facebook.com/PuzzlesAndChaos | 0 | PLAY_GAME | 1716966000 | View Edit Delete |