When the hunger gets stronger, a wolf is set loose for a mate hunt!

“I am not sure if we should do this or not. I don’t want to be stripped naked in front of a court full of those beasts. Gosh, I am getting goosebumps from even imagining it.”

The terrified girl tried to predict the horrible circumstances, which they might face if the alpha caught them hanging around casually in his castle. The two women stood in the midst of the marketplace while they continued the bickering.

Danielle, the blonde haired and green eyed girl who appeared to be constantly twisting her fingers in fright. On the other hand her friend, Martha stood there calmly while gazing at the shimmering castle situated on the cliff, which was visible to the whole town stirred a longing within those two brothel workers. 

The snowflakes were falling at the night time making the whole scenario straight out of some fairytale. The marketplace consisted of two rows of shops on both sides, the whole street was illuminated with numerous light poles. Danielle and Martha stood on the footpath covered in snow, while the castle a bit away from the town stood there shining like a diamond.

Since the climatic changes were said to affect the moods, people had already come out of their homes with their loved ones to enjoy the snow. However where every existing werewolf of the kingdom Selene was carefree and enjoying the eve of the ball. Danielle and her friend stood in the corner of the street outside an expensive clothing shop. 

"Are you certain that we should attend this ball? Don't you find it creepy, or at least questionable. What's the purpose of this ball every five years?"

Danielle’s voice was sewn with doubt as she cast a look at the castle just a few miles away from her sight. Meanwhile Danielle was concerned, Martha happened to be the drooling and had a sinister look in her eyes as her gaze darted on the lights and the brightly lit castle. 

"I'm quite positive that it's nothing suspicious, my dear. And you are overthinking for nothing, while potentially killing your chances of finding a suitable groom there."

Martha waved her hand carelessly to Danielle, who appeared to be a little taller and had frightful expressions in her green orbs. She constantly clutched the hem of her mediocre dress while contemplating whether she should pay heed to her friend’s suggestion or not.

"You are right, Martha. I should not exhaust myself with these ridiculous thoughts. Instead I should focus on grooming myself to look pleasant. Hopefully I can find my mate there apart from the delicious food. Of course, hehe!”

Danielle averted her head with a confident gaze as she spoke with enthusiasm this time, which contrasted with the cold gushes of the wind which had been blowing ever since. 

Martha successfully convinced her to shift the point of focus from possible punishment to something which would benefit Martha; finding her mate at the castle. 

"Yes, yes, you are thinking in the right direction now, Danielle. Let's do this and change the course of our lives, where we don't have to save for months to spend on some occasion anymore. I want to live with freedom, to be able to spend the way I like." 

Martha tried to encourage her before she could change her decision of going to the ball dressing up as royals or respected people at least. However, compared to the impulsive and naive Martha, Danielle was sensitive and mature. 

It was still a mystery how they both even got along with their contrasting personalities and totally different thinking; both of the women had different ways of perceiving life and vision of the events happening around them. 

"Yes. I don’t want to live miserably anymore while serving wine and meals to those perverted beta and omegas. For once, I want to live freely like a respectable woman on my own terms.”

Nonetheless Danielle agreed, acknowledging that there was no use of trying a counter strategy or logic in front of impulsively driven Martha. Hence she inhaled deeply and nodded while keeping all those disturbing questions and theories to herself.  

Danielle cast an eerie look at the castle where she could see the huge windows lightened up with the golden lights and the black flags which had been fluttering due to the wind. The castle was not somewhere any commoner could intrude whenever he or she wished to. It was the home of alpha Cyrus Rhaziel who was notoriously known for choking people to the death with his bare hands. 

People claimed that his eyes had a nonchalant expression and the alpha exuded a dark aura. Everyone had their own theories and made up stories since not many people had actually seen him. Only his beta Curtis used to make public appearances every time when it was required. People began to conclude multiple rumours that perhaps the alpha was ugly and did not dare show up publicly.

"But we do not have any reasonable attire to look presentable. And I do not want to look any mediocre to those aristocratic women, who would arrive all dressed up and showered in expensive glittering jewellery."

It was the moment when she realised how broken they both were and had been aiming to attend a mere ball. Which could be the only adventure they both had ever wished for and possibly the only night which could change their lives for forever. 

However the complaining tone of Martha made Danielle agitated, she was no doubt a spoilt ungrateful brat who wanted every existing luxury at her feet. Working at the brothel as a dancer Martha had befriended numerous counts and betas from other packs. However, they belonged to the other territories which ruled different kingdoms. And kingdom Selene was under alpha Cyrus Rhaziel’s clutches.

"Yeah, you are right. We have to look noble at least to enter the ball."

Danielle thought carefully for a brief moment, when her searching orbs landed on the basement shop near them.

"How about we buy some cheap dress from here at a lower cost, and then alter it to our choice and sizes?"

Of course, that was affordable for them and the skills in sewing and stitches might come in handy to both of the ladies.

"That's a brilliant idea Danielle. Sometimes I wonder what else you can do with that ingenious brain?"

Martha giggled softly although her remark was true considering how fast Danielle got popular among the brothel dancers in no time. Even though she came from some other pack which Danielle avoided to talk about. 

"To lure men. Maybe?"

Marthna teased her in a hushed tone not to disclose their identities, since they were not considered to belong to a respectable profession if anybody caught them.

"Haha, you sure are sly."

Danielle slipped her arm into Martha's and laughed happily, when they both decided to step inside the basement shop to buy some clothing. Whereas the dark sky began to engulf everything just like Danielle’s life was going to take a drastic turn in tomorrow’s ball.

Who would have known that the two young maidens standing in the middle of the marketplace were about to seal their fates. Danielle had no clue what turn her life was going to take. She left her home and came to kingdom Selene long ago to conceal her identity and to live freely. But who would have known that her cursed fate would haunt her life like a shadow.

On the other hand as far as the eyes could see, the huge castle Belle Morte stood above the hill with its glory and resplendent outer which could put anyone in an awestruck expression. With those four huge minarets and golden lights anyone would be stunned with the grandeur of the palace. But no one knew that within those glimmering lights and facade of the outer, lived a troubled alpha, Cyrus Rhaziel.

Just like the castle's name the young alpha was also dying, gradually, painfully and slowly alpha Cyrus was drifting towards death. Within those four walls of luxury it would not have been a surprise if his death would be labelled as 'beautiful death,' waiting for his bride as per the prophecy, only Cyrus' mate could save him. 

Luna's touch, her kiss, and the shared intimacy with her was Cyrus’ only cure. But what if the alpha’s mate is an unexpected one? Will it be a poison for him? What if Danielle refused to cure him? Will the alpha die? Or some twisted fate will occur? 

Meanwhile at the end of the marketplace where no one would stand alone in the dark, a pair of golden eyes had been watching over them with keen expression. 

"Is this the woman the alpha is looking for?"

The man draped in the black cloak spoke to himself as his sharp canines became visible. His calm yet curious voice contrasted with his glaring eyes which had a thirsty expression in them.

"She looks like the one alpha told me to look for. Blonde hair, green eyes but,"

The man fished out a small scroll from his pocket and glanced carefully only to confirm whether Danielle possessed all those factors or not. It seemed the alpha had been looking for her as his cure, the death curse had already sealed their fates! 

"But she does not smell like a werewolf at all. Her scent is definitely different, no charm and the beauty should definitely be excluded from her profile."

The mysterious man passed remarks on the lady, who had been unaware of anyone's presence around her which could seem suspicious at all.

"Well, let's see what happens. But I certainly do not like her as our Luna, she is...too plain."

The man pursed his lips in distaste while he headed back in the shadowy alley, and his silhouette vanished in no time. The cruel time wheel had spun already and the alpha’s mate had finally come to the right kingdom. But the worst fate was underlying because Danielle was not someone whom the alpha had been looking for his bride.

[Belle Morte Castle]

The glimmering castle had its own secrets hidden deep within the walls. Which had been the witness to glory and blood spilled and soaked to strengthen them. No doubt Belle Morte was not an ordinary castle where the desired charming alpha had been waiting for his mate to show up.Those huge four walls were possessed and owned by the alpha of the kingdom_ Cyrus Rhaziel, the cursed dying alpha.

"Alpha? I have some news to deliver.”

A loud voice resonated in the open balcony with a swish sound of wind, which snagged the attention of the alpha residing inside. 

"Mm?"

The short response was a gentle rebuke to the beta, who had dared to disturb the alpha at that hour when he had to go through some important scrolls.

"Forgive my insolence and presence,"

The beta’s voice resumed from the other side of the curtains which had been covering the balcony of the room creating a partition. 

"But this servant of yours has found someone who falls under the criteria."

Curtis, the beta who had been assigned the task to make a list of blonde haired women, filled the alpha in with the recent progress of his search.

"I hope this isn't another wild goose chase of yours, Curtis."

A magnetic response was heard by the walls and the man in the curtains. Curtis felt every hair of his body stand up in fright with the alpha’s reply. He acknowledged the punishment of wasting the time and effort of the alpha.

"I...I'm not sure, master, but-"

Curtis wanted to leave some room for his alpha not to think of his words as final statements. Of course he had to prepare to leave something which could spare his life.

"If you aren't certain about your search, Curtis, then you must have some reasonable explanation for your presence here."

Alpha Cyrus put down his quill on the table while his scroll laid there under his hand. Which appeared to have bleached the glow unlike normal werewolves. His pale complexion, and frail body was a sign of constant deteriorating health. Despite stepping closer to his death alpha Cyrus could give a good competition to every topnotch hunk of the kingdom.

"Y- yes, my alpha."

Although Cyrus spoke in a soft tone which did not sound angry at all, but Curtis seemed to have sensed the agitation behind those straight words. The beta had been sitting on the marbled railing of the balcony in the cold wind, but it did not bother him as much as the nonchalant attitude of his alpha was scaring him.

He could see the shadow of alpha Cyrus from the thin white curtains, the mysterious lord had been sitting on a chair with his long sleek black hair let loose to cascade on the shoulders to reach the backbone. 

"Then do not beat around the bush and spill the matter,"

Alpha Cyrus turned slightly creeping over the edge of the chair, when his voice echoed again with the same cold tinge in the tone.

"But make sure you have something worth my attention."

The apha had already been lenient enough to spare his precious moments for Curtis. A chill ran down his spine which made Curtis gulp down his fears and the very thoughts of consequences which visibly made him shiver. Meanwhile inside the chamber the noble alpha raked through his black hair which were parted from the middle. A weary expression graced his white face while those glowing golden eyes with long lashes stared at the curtains. 

"I came across a lowly woman down the market, alpha."

Curtis began with his actual news and paused for a moment not having any idea how his highness would react upon the realisation. 

"Although she has blonde hair and emerald eyes, her scent is peculiar. She...she doesn't smell like a werewolf, rather something else."

The beta confidant closed his eyes and inhaled sharply before spouting those words, assuming that a slash would definitely behead him in no time. 

But to his utter surprise nothing happened and silence hovered in the balcony. As the bone chilling wind brushed against Curtis' silhouette while settling within his veins. It brought him back to the present that he peeked from one eye just to see his alpha still plopped in the chair.

"Where did you spot that woman?"

Contrary to Curtis' expectations the alpha inquired about something which no one would have expected at all considering the personality he was notoriously known for. The beta’s orbs widened upon hearing those words which were less golden compared to that of Cyrus. 

"With due respect my lord, I saw her down the nearest park near the clothing shops."

The confidant of the king had to be precise in his calculations and searches. Curtis was aware of that and acknowledged the very fact that he needed to give a proper explanation of his statements.

'The alpha is interested in some lowly woman now. Is this happening for real?'

He muddled to himself standing straight with his hands tucked above his butt as Curtis was obliged not to leave without his master's permission. 

"Mm."

As expected Cyrus did not express any emotion instead placed another question in front of his dutiful beta. Who was supposed to have the answers to all the queries but if he was blank then the search was the only option.

"What do you mean by 'lowly woman', Curtis?"

Although his tone did not fluctuate for any single second since his noble blood had forced him to be a fierce leader, but Curtis had already known what the coldness and brief words meant.

The beta hesitated to reply and to fill the alpha with the information. Because he would definitely not like the answer and it might cost Curtis his life for insulting the potential Luna.

"Alpha….um,”

The beta Curtis knew that now his life was at stake thus the man knelt down on the chilled marbled floor before he could say anything further.

"Forgive my insolence alpha, the woman works in a brothel as a…dancer."

Upon hearing the mere words Cyrus' eyes glowed with hunger and rage. While his nails grew to a few inches and an animalistic groan got absorbed within the shivering walls.

[Next night | Time skip]

The night finally arrived patiently and two women walked out of a shabby nearly downtrodden building. Which had nothing to hide because the sorrows of the dancers, shame and poverty had been puking out of each tainted window. The whole assumed shining outer of their lives was in reality just a rotten, moss and moth eaten building, where the stench of perverted werewolves reeked who had left their seeds and scents there.

"How are we supposed to travel to the palace?"

Danielle inquired upon seeing nothing in front of their house, whereas the whole town had been approaching the castle in lavish carriages. Both of the ladies stood there under the snow as one snowflake fell over Danielle's pointy nose. It appeared that winter was the constant weather of kingdom Selene.

People claimed that the reason for the cold climate of the kingdom was caused by the alpha's nonchalant attitude and was a punishment for the kingdom due to some curse. And for that reason the alpha used to conduct that 5 year ball so he could find his mate who would melt his heart and bring the summer back. No wonder every single woman of the kingdom took this opportunity to dress up and doll up in various colours, all the efforts were done to snag the attention of the noble blood lord alpha in order to conquer his heart.

"Oh, don't worry about that."

Martha walked out behind her with all her attention fixated on the neckline of the dress, which had been exposing Martha's cleavage in a seductive way. Danielle frowned in a complaining gesture as her eyes followed her friend's movement of hands. While Martha pushed her breasts upwards by placing her hands below to give them a defined exposure within that pink dress. Danielle could not help but blush upon the whole sight, she could feel her ears burning hot with the shyness.

"Isn't that….quite a low neckline?"

She hesitantly questioned the woman standing besides her while Martha deliberately winked at Danielle and repeated the same action. Martha knew that despite being the brothel dancer Danielle had never allowed anyone to touch her unlike Martha who used to flash her assets. Danielle was a shy type and the whole thing about finding her mate made Danielle melt in a puddle of shame.

On the other hand Martha was having emotions totally opposite to hers and it was still a surprise how both of them got along together with the contrasting visions of life. Nonetheless, it appeared that Martha has already planned something about travelling towards the castle, Belle Morte.

"That's the trick, my love. You offer something to receive something."

Danielle stared at the petite lady clad in pink silk dress having stones around the belt of the dress with a plain heavy flair which brushed against the ground.

"Don't tell me you are planning to seduce some count there. Are you? What if he is not your mate?"

Although Danielle knew the answer to her question but silently prayed her hunch to be false, she had never regarded Martha as a temptress but was also aware that she was desperate to uplift her living. Everyone at the brothel was endlessly trying to find their mates, the bunch who finally found them got rejected due to their profession.

It was already becoming hard for them to live along without a mate, a few attempted suicide while the rest continued to pull it off. But perhaps Martha and Danielle were not going to do any such thing. It was a special night for them and since the ball was called every 5 years and numerous werewolves found their fated mates there.

"Tsk tsk, why are you grouchy with whatever I do?"

Martha pursed her lips and rolled her eyes upon Danielle's words while Danielle came forward and patted her shoulder gently as to make it up to Martha.

"Okay, okay. Don't be so grumpy."

Danielle pouted while faking angry expressions as she folded her arms over the chest. Both of the ladies were standing outside the brothel and due to their excitement both of them were unable to feel the bone chilling cold.

"Although you didn't tell me how do I look?"

Martha giggled softly with a smug expression as she praised the beauty standing in front of her.

"You are looking drop dead gorgeous, absolutely ready to set every werewolf count's heart on fire!"

Although her words were absolutely true since the maroon shaded velvet dress suited Danielle as if it had been sewn after she wore the cloth. Every woman aimed to find their mates at the ball which was the biggest opportunity for all of them. However, none of them wished to be the Luna for the cold hearted alpha. And perhaps Danielle also never wished to be the mate to alpha Cyrus Rhaziel.

Her blonde hair created a perfect contrast with the dress and an eye feasting combination with her clear skin and faint freckles.

"Oh no, I'm not aiming to garner any sort of attention of anyone. It's just an adventure and food, remember?"

Martha completely shoved back her words reminding her friend that they both had a huge difference between them. And the other women of the town who had been aiming to find a suitor in the ball to marry or to date...or perhaps to become a pet to a rich count!

If Danielle had any idea that she was already the most awaited guest by the alpha himself and did not require the attention of any measly count when Lord Cyrus was willing to meet her in person! But was it really acceptance? Or the alpha was going to reject her in public? Or was it an unexpected marriage offer from Alpha Cyrus' side? Everything was vague and unclear but one thing was certain Danielle's life was about to change overnight!

"Look, the carriage is here."

Martha flung her arm out to point out at the carriage which was pretty much decent for both of them to look presentable.

"Did you rent it? Like seriously?"

Danielle did not know that Martha had been investing into their adventure diligently because to her it was nothing more than a 'one night fling' and the whole mirage would vanish the very next day. They both would practically return to their old life as brothel dancers whom nobody wants.

"Why not? Now get in, we are already late for some delicacies."

Martha hopped in as a snowflake fell on Danielle's nose once while the woman looked heavenwards and inhaled sharply. She wished for the best for both of them because the ball was open to everybody which meant every kind of person was invited and welcomed.

"You shouldn't have picked silk, only a fool would chose that in this weather."

She made a remark on Martha's dress who had been wrapping her shoulders and neck with a woollen scarf by now, while Danielle was pretty much comfortable in her wisely selected maroon velvet gown.

"Yeah, I know. Will you now keep your wise words to yourself?"

Martha snarled at her but then smiled by sticking her tongue out making Danielle chuckle at her childish act.

The carriage drove both of them towards the castle passing through the empty streets and closed shops, no wonder the town was nearly empty because the rare opportunity of attending a ball.

'I just hope everything will go fine.'

Danielle prayed in her heart clenching her fist over the chest while her eyes darted towards the glimmering castle which had been growing closer now.

"We have reached ladies."

The man informed them and they both crept out if the carriage managing the hem of their dresses while the resplendent Belle Morte stood in front of their drooling eyes!

"Oh heavens!"

Martha responded to the beauty of the historic moment and the ceremonial decorations while they both stepped inside passing through the grand entrance of the huge gate.

As soon as Danielle took her first step into the castle the walls sensed the presence of someone 'unusual' and 'forbidden' while the werewolves could only smell werewolf blood and the temptation of beauties all around them. It appeared that none of the regular werewolves were able to sense anything unusual walking among them. Meantime in the bed chamber of alpha Cyrus, the man who had been sitting on the huge bed with his legs crossed but immediately opened his eyes.

"She is here! Mate!"

His sharp fangs shone brightly as he unleashed his claws, while Cyrus' orbs glowed golden with thirst.

Meanwhile on the other hand Martha and Danielle were still trying to figure out how to react.

"Oh heavens!"

Danielle skimmed around the enormously stretched hall which was dipped into the shower of golden lights and none other than the swarm of werewolves.

"This is insane!"

She gasped in shock as the gorgeous slender beauties and uncountable hunks appeared to her sinful emerald eyes in a slow motion pace as she moved her gaze from walls towards the people.

"Hey, hey Martha are you seeing this?"

Danielle tried to elbow her friend but nothing touched her arm except the air which shivered sensing the mysterious aura from her.

"Huh? Where did she go?"

She turned her head only to see herself standing alone in the entrance like a fool as she skimmed through the hall with an anxious expression.

The lady knew they both came together but soon would split up to enjoy the royal ball, although she did not know that Martha would abandon her sooner to go on her 'hunk hunt.' .

"Where in the world did she go so fast?"

Danielle whispered to herself in a soft tone slightly clutching the hem of the gown while her searching gaze looked for her friend.

Danielle expected her to be found around the corner of delicacies but to her surprise she was in the embrace of a man while they both danced together.

".........."

The woman could not comprehend how Martha was able to snag attention each time wherever they went, she appeared to be a man attracting magnet who could have people wrapped around her pinkie.

Danielle was still trying to pass some remarks on the sight she just witnessed when she turned her head only to find a hunk standing close to her zoned out silhouette. Within the spur of the moment her face nearly touched the man's as her lips barely managed not to collide with his. Somehow they both survived the closeness, one without getting bitten and the other managing his hunger.

She immediately gasped and stepped back out of fright with her emerald orbs staring intently within the eyes of the man, who appeared to be a beta count with his aristocratic attire and the particular traits.

"Hello dear."

The man bowed slightly with his hungry eyes never leaving the sight of her face, as he greeted Danielle softly indicating that he did not mean any harm.

"H- hello."

The lady grabbed the hem and bowed as a gesture of respect to him after all he was much more respectable than her, who did not have much say in the things due to having no wolf and being a brothel dancer.

"Can I have the honour of asking the most gorgeous woman in the ball for a dance?"

The man flung his arm out when his gloved hand rested in front of her to grasp, Danielle looked down carefully knowing that she could not refuse him as not to appear rude to anybody who was present there under the alpha's roof.

'Er, should I agree or not?'

Her brain was running fastly not comprehending any possible conclusion hurriedly. She was well aware that having emotional strings attached to a werewolf was no different than wishing for water in a desert. After all, at the end of the day she was not someone who was wanted and desired by any respectable man.

'I should not refuse him only to sound rude.'

She slightly shook her head and lifted her gaze to witness a man no less than a godly figure and face.

"It will be my honour, sir."

She reluctantly agreed and bowed with the same gesture as before and placed her hand over his. The lady was aware that no harm could befall upon her since the ball was conducted under the alpha's roof and there were guards all around them. Well, harassing anybody was out of the question let alone doing any other gruesome deed.

A lopsided grin appeared on the man's lips as soon as Danielle grabbed his hand, the man pulled her closer by waist and within a jerk she was glued to his body.

'What is he doing?'

She nervously questioned to herself and looked around haphazardly to divert her attention because the situation had been getting awkward.

'Calm down Danielle, calm down. It is just a dance.'

She consistently reminded herself because a lowly woman like her could not revolt or rebel acknowledging that the resplendent hall was occupied with powerful people. Counts, merchants, betas, alphas of other packs, omegas, who had the authority all over the kingdom which was collectively ruled by Lord Cyrus Rhaziel.

'She does not smell like other werewolves at all.'

The man made a slight movement which could be considered as a dance but more like an attempt to get intimate. Since his nose was nearly on the side of her neck slightly touching her blonde hair locks.

'No wonder no one is able to sense her aromatic scent combined with the bitterness of something unknown, because no other royal blood is here to witness this strange moment.'

His eyes did not leave her face while Danielle had her one hand placed on his shoulder although she tried endless not to do anything which could be considered as rude or insolence. The man did not appeared to be a simple person since only he was able to sense Danielle's peculiar scent while other werewolves could not.

'Strange that lord Cyrus never mentioned any person who could possess such scent in this kingdom. But why?'

His thoughts ran wild with the analysis of her face, plump cherry lips, sharp features and blonde hair were a worth simping combination with emerald eyes which could bring any man on his knees.

Maybe Alpha Lord Cyrus Rhaziel was an exception!

The lo fi music resonated in the golden lit hall as numerous couples danced and developed their emotions. Precisely, situationship as they say which Martha was looking for too. After all, it would not hurt any bit if somebody would get laid with an authoritative person for a few gold coins and rubies.

Danielle wanted the dance to end as soon as possible because the man’s intense soul sucking stare was making her uncomfortable. She had no clue if the werewolves were always like that or that man was someone special in being the top tier pervert. But it did make her grow cautious from him as she kept her gaze fixated on him not to make the man suspicious.

Soon after the music stopped and the dance ended, the man bowed down to the lady with respect though he had a grin over his face. Whereas Danielle followed his lead and flung her arm out courteously for the man to kiss the back of her hand. No doubt there were some set norms for the civilians to pay heed and nobody could boldly dare to be ignorant to them.

'Finally this is over. I can rest assured now that he is not going to hurt me.’

Danielle muttered to herself with a sigh of relief while the gaze of the mysterious man was still glued on her face. He could see the anxious expression on her beautiful face which displayed her uneasiness by his presence. But that man was determined in his stance.

Whereas, Martha was still dancing with the person who apparently seemed a rich beta count. Since the handmade loafers and the signet ring he had on his finger were the biggest sign of his wealth. The kingdom Selene was led by the supreme alpha Cyrus Rhaziel, while every state had its own beta count with further classified and split into numerous omegas.

'Martha, O' girl, what are you even doing? How can you even let anyone touch you so easily? These betas and other counts are just a bunch of perverts.’

Danielle thought to herself with a bitter taste in her mouth, upon seeing that the count had been taking Martha out of the palace and she had a wide smile on her face. Whereas, Martha gladly followed him without any complaints.

Well, anybody could predict what would happen ahead, since that was the reason for going to the ball. And every single ball night brought numerous such fated couples or situationships to develop. Martha and the count were not a surprise since Danielle knew for what purpose Martha had dressed up so fancy and neatly.

'Come on girl, you can't simply believe anybody in the ball blindly like that.'

The lady curled her fingers into fist and wanted to knock some sense into her friend. But that was definitely not a place where one could act rashly. That would be a brave move to ruin the ball of alpha Cyrus Rhaziel, knowing the consequences for the insolent behaviour would be severe for sure.

Meanwhile the man in front of her who just had a dance with Danielle, grew closer to her silhouette while she was zoned out completely to realise anything. She was focused on how to draft ways to get back home since Martha was gone and would probably return at dawn. It left her worried and conscious immediately as Danielle grew angry over the thought that Martha left her.

With the unique scent of hers intoxicating his senses during the whole zoned out moment, the count could not restrain himself and instinctively his canines enlarged. Danielle could not sense any changes happening around her which made her unable to grasp the physical change in that beta count.

'Just a small bite and lick would not hurt, right?'

He knew that werewolves were not allowed to drink blood from humans. And it was a law created by alpha Cyrus Rhaziel to provide the protection to the humans at maximum. Nobody was permitted to mate with someone forcefully, in that case the marking would be considered nullified.

Similarly there were certain other rules which prevented such forced marriages and forceful mating. It provided the civilians an assurance that the alpha would not let anyone get mistreated. There were numerous regulations which helped the humans survive in kingdom Selene which was a dominated region of werewolves.

'Damn, she is inciting my senses and surprisingly I'm unable to restrain myself.'

The man muttered to himself and concluded that something was definitely different about her but still the answer was a mystery.

'If Martha goes away then how am I supposed to go home?'

Danielle was still in her thoughts that she did not realise anything odd around her and was totally unaware of the man's advancements. His eyes turned bright golden and was about to bite her exposed neck in a jiffy with his super speed, but a loud thud sound resonated in the hall.

Specks of dust rose in the hall and everyone gasped immediately not acknowledging what had happened since there was just a trail of dust. It led their confused eyes towards the wall which had a huge spot and bricks were broken. Everything happened in a few split seconds which did not let any one of them be able to see what storm actually occurred there.

Danielle became terrified and covered her mouth with both hands with terror in her eyes. The lady's lips were troubling and she could not move her eyes away from the man who was literally stuck into that hole. The beta count who was just talking to her a few moments ago was now badly sunk into that hole.

The impact of the push was huge which broke the bricks and created a round sunken shape. Danielle had no clue who could do that especially with that power. Similarly the rest of the people who attended the ball were equally confused. Meanwhile a voice resonated with authoritative confrontation which snagged everyone’s attention.

"Lord Hawthorne!"

Curtis, the beta of alpha Cyrus, who was clad in black from head to toe. He immediately dashed towards the count with a guilty expression because he failed to protect what was his master’s. The man who was just dancing with Danielle was now stuck in the spot and groaned while wincing in pain as he tried to get out of the hole.

Danielle trembled as she had never been put into such a situation which was triggered by her. It was a fortunate decision that she had been wearing a long dress to cover her shaking limbs. Or else anyone would have seen her frightful condition which would have embarrassed her.

"How dare you attempt such a bold act rashly!"

A loud magnetic voice resonated in the enormous hall which was earlier filled with gasps. And now every single head turned towards the source of the voice, which came all the way from the other side of the hall.

Every single person knew that Curtis was appointed to speak on the behalf of the alpha. And apparently he was the one to utter the words, which felt like a death sentence to Lord Hawthorne. It was an expected and on point reaction since there was no way anyone was permissible to act recklessly under his watch.

Especially, when it involved the possible mate of alpha Cyrus Rhaziel.

Every soul present in the hall standing in every square corner held their breaths and immediately bowed with their one knee on the floor. While women presented greetings and respect by bowing with extremely low heads. Since beta Curtis was directly a speaker for the alpha everyone was forced to respect him and accept his decisions.

Danielle lifted her eyes sneakily and daringly only to see the mighty alpha for the first time who was known to be pleasing to every human eye. Well, that was what she thought. Danielle boldly mistook Curtis for the alpha with the way he made his grandeur appearance.

'Is...is he?'

Danielle gulped down her fears after all anyone would have reacted the same way after watching the scenario. Lord Hawthorne was barely able to gather energy to stand up on his wobbly legs and with the help of his butler who supported him.

No matter how powerful the count was, no one in the hall had more strength than Curtis. Yes, he was the one to throw that powerful blow of air aimed at the insolent count. Since he was directly associated with the alpha he had some perks blessed by the moon goddess. Curtis was destined to protect and take care of the alpha, he was also responsible to cater the search for his mate.

And the very idea made the strength of King Cyrus unimaginable. Since the question was obvious if his personally taught and trained confidant was powerful, then the alpha king himself must be mighty in terms of grasp over his abilities.

The whole hall grew silent for a moment that only Danielle dared to have a sneak peak since curiosity killed the cat. All she could see was a sturdy and stern looking man in the front of the staircase with his torso slightly exposed in that white shirt and the muscles he had were worth drooling.

Curtis had glowing golden irises which were slightly darker than the rest of the werewolves. And it was definitely a sign for others to respect his presence and decisions. Of course, he was the personal messenger of the noble alpha Lord Cyrus Rhaziel, and even royal bloods were obliged to obey him since the king was behind him.

"How bold of you to attempt to breach the rules,"

Curtis glided down the golden staircase which rested in the middle of the hall. While his sleek black hair tied in a long ponytail with a golden hairpin moved gracefully. Just like his master he was also an epitome of handsome-ness.

Dressed in black suit with silver dragons imprinted on the shoulders he looked imposing and the intent stare caused an extremely dangerous aura. Everyone gave him way and scattered into two groups gasping about the pitiful fate of Lord Hawthorne. Beta Curtis approached him with his eyes intently staring at the bold culprit.

"And that too under the roof of alpha’s roof!"

His voice echoed in the hall along with a noise of sharp breaths of others, while the guilty count was unable to concentrate on anything. The perverted culprit count was unable to generate any excuse to justify his actions since nothing was going to work effectively.

His head was still spinning as he stood there with his butler, although he could see a double image of Curtis and could hear his words.

"I believe you assumed that the noble lord would not take any notice. Tsk, how ignorant of you!"

Beta Curtis mocked him and halted in the middle of the decorated hall which was about to turn into an altar. While Danielle clutched her dress with the imposing aura coming from Curtis who was standing right in front of her but facing towards Lord Hawthorne.

Whereas King Cyrus was absent from the scenario!

"N- no please, forgive me."

Lord Hawthorne immediately knelt in front of Curtis not bothering to care about his reputation and honour and pleaded for mercy.

His voice stuttered and he began to slap himself hard with consistent sobbing and begging for mercy.

"I...I got swayed, my lord. Please….I beg you, spare my life."

Curtis did not respond or even flinched at his act instead he reached for his hairpin and took it out letting the long hair loose, with an effortless flung of arm the long needle pierced his forehead from the middle.

Danielle gasped loudly seeing blood oozing from his forehead as his lifeless body fell and decomposed into a black smoke leaving the golden hairpin. It was an unusual sight to behold and the only explanation people could derive was the special hairpin Curtis had. It was definitly the doing of that pin that a werewolf killed by it would turn into a smoke leaving no trace of death. Curtis walked up to it and picked the pin which was a gift from king Cyrus and licked off the blood with his piercing gaze intently at terrified befuddled Danielle!

It was obvious that there was no way werewolves could perform any such feats of turning someone into smoke. But somehow the beta Curtis was one peculiar case who was blessed by the moon goddess with some particular perks. It was highly unusual for werewolves to die and turn into ashes then transform into smoke. But since Curtis was blessed by the moon goddess when he was a child,the beta was born a hybrid which increased his strength compared to other ordinary werewolves. 

It was still a mystery to everyone including the court and other authoritative people of kingdom Selene that how did they both even meet. The friendship of a werewolf and a hybrid specifically who had vampiric blood running in his veins. Since those two breeds were known to be each other’s enemies from eons. The vampire race was a prideful one and they were not known for serving others, and the very thought made everyone confused as to why would Curtis willingly serve the alpha. 

The enigma had kept everyone in a quizzical state since nobody could really comprehend or conclude anything about that part. It was clear that Curtis was serving as the beta for Cyrus which meant that he put down his pride to serve the alpha as his servant. But the question which was raised here was, why would the beta Curtis willingly do that? Was it some kind of mystery or curse they two had in between them which forced the two men to get bound to each other?

It appeared that in the midst of the chilling endless winter the kingdom Selene was not as simple as it seemed. The alpha was ruling the kingdom all alone with the help of his beta Curtis, it did raise many such questions that how a sick alpha was able to pull such power. It was evident that it had something to do with either Curtis and his powers or the moon goddess had blessed him. However, it was still not clear if that was it or something else, some other mystical power was involved? 

There was a lot of mystery around the alpha Cyrus, the sole ruler of the kingdom itself. Who was he? What background did he have? Where did he even come from? Because there was a rumour among the elite counts that the supreme alpha Cyrus was a rogue wolf. Some said he was the personal bodyguard of the former king and deliberately killed the previous Lord to seize the throne. None of them had splud proof about his identity or anything, most had not even seen the alpha themselves due to his habit of staying in the shadows. 

Since Curtis was the one who dealt the matters up front with everybody and was the messenger of the alpha, the people started seeing and predicting Cyrus from the vision and personality of his beta. Hence, which in turn earned him all those questionable and notorious titles and reputation.