ELORA

“No! Hell no!” I exclaimed immediately. Why him? Of all people in the world, why must it be Damon? Why the heck must it be him?

His lips formed into a smirk. He must have felt that spark too, and known. “Hello, Mate.”

“Don't you dare call me that. Don't you fucking dare!” I yelled and pulled my hair, frustratingly.

Things weren't supposed to go down this way. Nothing like this happened two years ago. I haven't been able to sense my mate since I turned 18, and I learned to live with it after I met Lucien, but why should I get a mate after my rebirth? It doesn't make sense!

I suddenly burst out laughing. “Oh, now I get it. The moon goddess just wants to test me,” I muttered out loud and looked up. “Moon goddess, I got your test now, so please take it back, okay? It was only a joke, and I get it.” I sounded ridiculous, but I couldn't help it.

“Elora,” Damon called.

I responded with a glare. This is crazy. Why him? I hated Damon to the core. The man had a thing for me since high school, but I've been turning down his advances because it was obvious that I felt nothing for him. Despite all that, he showed that he still loved me, but I hurt him in so many ways and didn't regret it until now.

How was I supposed to face someone I've done countless bad things to and accept him as my mate? Just how?

The smile he had on his face made my anger grow. “Do not tell anyone about this. I don't understand why the moon goddess would pair me with someone like you, so I'd appreciate it if you keep your mouth shut, understood?” I snapped.

“Why should I hide such outstanding news, Elly? I've waited for a day like this to come, and it's finally here. I simply can't hide this joy.” He smirked.

“You must hide it, Damon. I swear, if you tell anyone, I won't hesitate to kill you.” I threatened and he chuckled.

“I know you won't have the nerves to kill your mate. You'll soon fall helplessly in love with me, baby girl. It's just a matter of time.” He snapped his fingers.

“Only in your stupid dream. Damn, I despise this!” I stomped my feet.

I was about to leave, but he pulled me close and embraced me.

“I love you, Elora.” He said.

My knees weakened as his breath fanned my neck and my heartbeat accelerated. The feeling disgusted and suffocated me. I pushed him off.

“I hate you, Damon. I hate you damn much!” I yelled and dashed out of there. I could feel his eyes on me and turned to see him still staring at me. He winked and my heart stirred. I quickly looked away and cursed under my breath as I made my way to the hall.

I met Lucien and Zora having a hearty conversation. I bet they're already planning on how to cheat on me and get rid of me.

“Elly, you're back.” Zora smiled.

“Yeah,” I answered and without glancing at Lucien, I adjusted my glasses and took a seat.

All through the party, I was seated while Zora went out there to dance her heart out. The look on my face chased guys that attempted to ask me to dance away. They must be wondering why the once naive and shy Elora suddenly changed overnight, but heck did I care.

The time for the giving of prizes came, and I could swear I collected more than 10 prizes, but those were the least on my mind. All I thought about was revenge and how to go about it, and also how to take back my father's throne from the claws of our self acclaimed beta.

****

After the party, I was back in my old apartment, ready to pack and go live in the pack, but this time around, my aim for going there is to ask for what I'm entitled to.

If I wanted to serve my revenge cold, I would need power, and that power was to become the Luna of this pack. Another reason I want the throne is to get rid of the bad eggs that called themselves my father's employees and elders of the council. These people have been eating off my father's wealth since he and my mother died mysteriously in the palace.

Yeah, they died mysteriously, but I was too stupid to investigate their death. I'm going to do that now and make sure whoever is responsible for their deaths is punished severely.

My phone rang again. It was Zora, I rolled my eyes. I could remember how she called that day to know if I had gotten home safely. I had shone my stupid teeth and thanked her, oblivious of her motives. I rejected the call and dropped the phone in my pocket.

I sighed and continued to pull the luggage, but that unique scent came again. I closed my eyes and inhaled every bit of it.

“Are you done gawking?”

My eyes snapped open. “Damon!” I snapped and facepalmed.

“Hey,” He flashed me a smile, but I frowned.

“What are you doing here?” I asked.

“I was in the neighborhood and realized I haven't congratulated my mate for all the prizes she got today.” He smiled.

“Don't call me that. Besides, you collected some prizes too. You're just as intelligent as I am.” I spurted out without even realizing it.

He smiled widely. “First time you ever complimented me. I certainly am going to cherish this day.”

“Damn it! You're so annoying.” I started leaving.

“Let me help with your luggage.” He reached out, but I pushed his hand away.

“I can help myself, thanks.” I said calmly and without sparing him a glance, I hurriedly walked away.

“I'll come see you at the palace tomorrow.” He shouted to my hearing, but I acted deaf.

****

When I got to the palace, I instructed the maids to take my luggage to my room.

“Time to get what's mine.” I sighed and headed for the throne room.

I peeped through the keyhole and saw Beta Dexter speaking with Elder Blake, the oldest of the pack elders.

“Guards!” I called and they rushed to meet me. “I need the remaining Elders in the palace right now. Find a way to bring them here.” I ordered.

They were surprised but bowed and left to do as I've said. I flung the door open and their eyes were on me instantly.

“Elora, you're back. How did the party go?” He asked.

I scoffed inwardly. He acts nice whenever the oldest of the elders was around just because he knew I was his favorite, but behind that smile is a sneer and a plan to steal my father's gold.

“Elora, the beta is asking you a question. How did the party go?” Elder Blake asked with a smile.

I adjusted my glasses and smiled at him. “It went well, Elder Blake. Your daughter is finally a graduate.” I smiled.

The only person I can vouch for among my father's elders is this man. He has been with me through thick and thin. I owe him a lot.

He smiled and stood to hug me. “I'm proud of you.”

I smiled and pulled away from the hug before facing Beta Dexter.

“Beta Dexter, I am 18 now and according to the rules of this pack and the oath you swore to before ascending the throne, I am entitled to ask for what is mine now.” I stated firmly.

Beta Dexter frowned, glaring dangerously at me.

“What are you talking about?” He asked.

“Step down. I want to ascend my father's throne.”

ELORA

“Have you gone insane? What sort of ridiculous demand is that?” Beta Dexter asked. He was practically glaring daggers at me.

I scoffed. “I'll forgive you once for this rant, but the next time you talk to I, Elora Whitlock, Luna of this pack again, I won't hesitate to have you killed and thrown to the vultures.” I snapped and he gasped.

“Elora, don't forget that I am the one on the throne; the one with the authority. It's disrespectful of you to come here and say gibberish.” Beta Dexter yelled at me.

Elder Blake held my hand. “Daughter, what are you up to?” He whispered to me.

“It is simple and clear. I am ready to emerge as Luna. Don't worry about the pack. I know everything there is to know because I have been secretly studying books and taking lessons.” I whispered back to him.

“Are you sure you can do this?” He asked.

“Yes, Elder Blake. You have to trust me on this one. I am no longer that naive little princess that everybody knows.”

He smiled and patted my shoulder. “You're doing great.”

I smiled and faced Beta Dexter with a glare. “Your days on that throne are over. You could choose to leave gently or be forced to do so.” I folded my hands.

He frowned. “Elder Blake, are you just going to sit there and watch this little girl insult me?” He asked.

Elder Blake sighed before speaking up. “Dexter, before you ascended the throne, you took an oath to allow Elora to take over whenever she was ready to as far as she had turned 18. She is 18 and says she's ready. Let us hand over the throne to her.” Elder Blake suggested.

Dexter clenched his fists. “She isn't ready, Elder Blake. Look at her, she's too young and naive.”

“For her to have that courage to challenge you shows she's ready, Dexter. I'm not supporting her because I love her or anything, but because I see and understand her point. She's ready!” Elder Blake said.

The remaining Elders walked in one by one.

“Thank God you all are here,” Dexter began after they took a seat. “Elora just came and asked me to step down from the throne and allow her to take over.” He said, and they gasped.

I frowned deeply and looked at all of them. These Elders contributed to the fact that I wasn't able to take over until I turned 20. Whenever I came and asked about the throne, they would come up with different excuses. Occasionally, they would even yell at me, but I endured it all.

Now is Payback time.

“Elora, that's an absurd request.” One of them said,

“I don't have the time to exchange words with you people. I only called you here, so you could witness how I'm going to ascend the throne and become Luna, then you'll help in planning my Luna ceremony.” I smirked.

They all gasped. “Elora!” One of them yelled, but I acted as if I didn't hear him.

“Guards!” I called and they rushed in immediately. Taking one last look at Dexter, I decided to give him one last chance to step down. “My guards are here, Dexter. Do yourself good and step down from my throne!” I snapped.

“Elora, you shouldn't be doing this. You can't rule yet.” Beta Dexter said.

“I have my father's blood running through my veins. If he was able to rule this pack, then I can do better and even better than you.” I pointed to him.

“Elders, we have to listen to her. This is her throne and no one else's. Dexter is only a substitute, meant to stay until she comes of age and is ready to take over the throne. She is here now and must take what she is entitled to.” Elder Blake explained and I laughed.

“Elder Blake, I can't believe you're siding with a little girl. Where in the history of White Tide Pack has someone this young ruled us?” Another Elder lamented.

“In case you've forgotten so soon, let me refresh your memory. Alpha Whitlock was 19 years old before he ascended the throne. Elora being 18 doesn't make any difference. This is her right and the least we can do is support her.” Elder Blake explained, but they were still strong headed.

I snickered. “Dexter, one last chance.” I stated firmly.

“Elora, I am not stepping down from here, and there is nothing you or anyone can do about it.” He yelled at me.

“Guards!” They bowed. “Take him off my throne!” I ordered.

They started approaching him, but he raised his hand up to make them stop. “What do you think you're doing? Are you going to let a little girl give you orders?” Dexter asked them.

They turned to look at me and I folded my hands.

“Look at how small she looks. Is this the kind of person you want to be your Luna?” He asked.

“It's in the heart and not the stature.” I chimed in.

When the guards didn't move, I clenched my fists. Dexter chuckled.

“You see, Elora. I'm the one with the power and the authority. There is nothing you can do to ascend this throne, not while I am still alive and breathing.” He smirked.

I took slow steps to where the guards stood and faced them. If they were dumb, I was ready to make them come back to their senses. How could they serve someone who is only interested in exploiting them?

“Are you two stupid?” I asked and the elders gasped. The guards too were shocked and their eyes widened. “I am sure Dexter hasn't been fair to you. He has treated you people like trash, and you still want him to be the Alpha? Is this madness or what?” I asked. They bowed their heads without saying a word. “Now, tell me the truth, between Dexter and my late father, who did well?” I asked.

They exchanged gazes and, as if communicating telepathically, they answered at the same time.

“Your father.”

“Now tell me. What the hell are you still doing with this man?” I pointed at Dexter.

“Don't listen to her!” Dexter yelled.

“You're right.” They smiled, and I moved aside as they approached Dexter.

When they got closer, Dexter yelled.

“Are you going to let an Omega rule you? That girl is an Omega.” The guards halted and the Elders gasped.

“An Omega?”

“You can't be serious!” I exclaimed, throwing my hands in the air. Was he that shameless to use the “Omega” trick against me?

Omega wolves are low ranked, but that doesn't dispute the fact that I am the Alpha's daughter and the throne is mine.

The elders shook their heads as they looked at me, and I mentally rolled my eyes. Elder Blake gave me a reassuring look and I exhaled.

“Elora, you're an omega; a low rank wolf. It's not right for you to lead us.” One of the elders said.

“I am an omega, yes, I am not arguing, but that isn't going to stop me from taking what is rightfully mine!” I snapped.

They were about to talk, but I raised my hand. “Hold it, I'm not done yet. When my father was alive, Beta Dexter had suggested they hide the truth about me being an omega. I didn't consent to that and so did my father, but he sweet talked my father into hiding the truth from you all. I should have known he was waiting for the perfect day to bring it to the light, but you know what? It's fine that way. At least, you all will get to see that an omega can do a better job than an Alpha wolf.” I folded my arms.

The Elders exchanged looks before averting their gazes to Beta Dexter.

“So, you suggested it?” Elder Blake asked.

“Yes, because it's a shameful thing for the Alpha's daughter to be an Omega. I did all that for her own good. Should the people find out, their respect for her would reduce.” He defended and I scoffed.

“I never asked you to look out for me, Beta Dexter. I can take care of myself, and I'll take care of the throne better. I have the blood of my father running through my veins. There is no difference between me and an Alpha wolf, so I'd suggest you step down while I'm being nice. You don't want to get forced down, do you?” I asked.

“Enough!” The second-oldest Elder stood up. He glared daggers at me as he approached me, but I stood with my head up. Elder Matt, I knew him too well. He joined hands with Beta Dexter to sell off one of my father's lands after his death. He had automatically added himself to my blacklist and won't be spared either.

“Do you have any idea who we are, child? We are the elders of this pack. We've been doing this even before you were born, and it is up to us to decide whether you'll sit on that throne or not. You're still young and have no experience. Now, go to your room and forget we ever had this conversation.” He turned his back to me.

“Wow! That's a pleasant one. So, because I am omega, you want to strip me of my right to the throne?” I asked lazily.

“No one is stripping you of your title. We are only waiting for the right time — for you to come of age. When that happens, and we see that you are mature enough, we will gladly hand over the throne to you.” Elder Matt said in a matter of fact tone and took his seat.

They think I'll back down that easily, they were mistaken.

“I still stand on my decision, elders, and if you aren't ready to support me, the door is that way.” I pointed to the door, hoping they would just stand and leave the throne room.

“Are you chasing the elders out?” Dexter asked and feigned surprise before facing the elders. “You see what I'm talking about? This girl will throw this pack in the mud if we let her emerge as Luna. She might even turn us into slaves.”

I rolled my eyes and counted 1-5 mentally to calm myself down. There wasn't any need to raise my voice anymore. I'm going to take things slow and steady.

Elder Blake stood up and with his hands tucked into his robe, he faced Beta Dexter.

“As a leader, you're supposed to lead by example. I've said this before and I'll continue saying this. Before the late Alpha died, you promised that you would allow Elora to ascend the throne whenever she was ready. You promised the Alpha that you would guide and make sure she doesn't make the wrong decisions, and I am a witness to that. That day, nothing of this sort was mentioned; omega, age restriction and so on. She said she is ready, and I see her potential. Give the throne to her.” He said calmly.

“What the hell are you saying? Do you want a little girl to be your leader? And not just any little girl, an omega?” Dexter snapped.

“We won't accept that!” An Elder stood up.

I have had just about enough of all these shenanigans. I've been talking and talking, but it seems action is going to speak louder than words in this case.

I snapped my fingers and the guards turned to face me.

“I will give the two of you one last chance to take that man off my throne right now. Disobey my orders at your own risk,” I thundered, and could swear my gaze on them was fiery, judging from how they shuddered, while looking at me.

“Alpha, please step down, or we would have to forcefully take you.” One of the guards said.

“You wouldn't dare! Do you want to have your heads hung on the poles?” He threatened.

“Take him.” I ordered, my voice bold, firm and authoritative. If they don't want the easy way, I'm ever ready to use the hard way.

The guards approached him and grabbed him, taking him away from the throne. He tried to fight them, but couldn't.

“Elora, you're making a grave mistake!” One of the elders yelled.

I ignored him and the cat walked to where the throne was placed. On the floor laid the crown that had fallen from his head when the guards took him. I picked it up.

“Do not wear it, Elora!” Beta Dexter yelled.

I yawned and placed the crown on my head, then took the Scepter and proceeded to sit on the throne.

“Don't you dare sit on it.” They snapped.

I smirked and sat down, then crossed my legs.

“All hail the Luna.” I smirked.

ELORA

“What guts!” The elders yelled and turned to leave.

“Halt!” I ordered and they obeyed.

They turned to look back at me, their eyes were literally spitting fire, but I cared less.

“Tomorrow night will be my coronation. I want you all to be there, and if by any chance I didn't see any of you, you'll have me to contend with. So, tomorrow night, wear your finest robes, visit the barber for a haircut if you want any and look good for my coronation,”

One of them was about to talk, but I raised my hand and stopped him.

“It's an order coming from me, Luna.” I snapped.

They sighed and nodded before walking out, leaving only me, Dexter and Elder Blake.

“I'm proud of you, daughter. You've shown me that you have the blood of our late Alpha running through your veins. You'll make a great Luna, and you have my full support.” He smiled.

I returned the smile and he walked out.

I got down from the throne and walked to where Dexter stood, glaring daggers at me.

“You should have stepped down when I asked you to, Dexter. Maybe, I would have shown you an inch of pity.” I scoffed.

“Mark my words, Elora. This isn't over! I will make sure your stay on that throne is one with endless troubles and calamities,” He threatened.

“You have no shame, do you? You have the guts to threaten me? Let me make it clear to you, in case you have forgotten so soon. Presently, your fate is in my hands. I could order for your execution with just a flick of my little finger and trust me when I say you won't like stepping on my toes.” I snarled.

He chuckled darkly and looked me directly in the eyes. “Watch and see, I'm going to make this palace a living hell for you. Kill me now that you have the chance, Luna.” He chuckled.

I snickered and took a step closer to him. The heels I was wearing made it easier for me to tower over him because he was average in height.

“I'm going to spare you. You know why? Because, I want you to see me do things that you've never in your 35 years of existence done. I want you to see me take over kingdoms, fight and win battles, bring this pack out of the mud you've thrown it into and polish it. After you've noted that, then I will end your miserable life. So, calm down, beta. Your death will not be profitable now.” I smirked and walked away.

He growled and cursed under his breath, but I said nothing and continued moving.

Just you wait and see how I'm going to bring you all down one by one. I'm sparing no one because my revenge must be served cold.

I clapped my hands and the maids ran to meet me. “Tomorrow night is my coronation,” I announced, and they exchanged looks. “Yeah. I want this palace decorated to meet my taste. Nothing should be out of place. I don't care whatever theme you're going to use, just make it beautiful,” I ordered.

They bowed and left.

“Guards!” I called.

They ran to meet me with their heads bowed. “Spread the word. Tomorrow night is my coronation. I am going to officially become the Luna of White Tide pack. I want every single person in this pack to be in attendance, okay?”

“Okay, your majesty!” They bowed and ran to do as I've said.

I sighed and made my way to my room. I sat on the bed and rid myself of the heels I was putting on. As I slid out of my clothes, my thoughts drifted to Damon and what happened in school today.

I was already tired of asking the moon goddess why she mated me to him. Most of the reasons why I'm trying as much as possible to avoid him is because of everything I've done to him. I've been so terrible to him and can't help it. If I decide to be nice to him now, the guilt will eat me whole.

I sighed and entered the bathroom. The maids had already prepared my bath. I looked at the bathtub and couldn't wait to get in.

Removing my towel, I entered and sighed in satisfaction. The water was warm and smelled like roses. I sunk my body deep into the tub and rested my head against the side of the tub.

I closed my eyes, allowing the bubbles to tickle my bare skin. My muscles relaxed under the heat.

“This is more like it.” I smiled.

After enjoying the water enough, I started scrubbing myself clean and then got out. I dried off before wrapping the towel around my chest.

When I walked back towards my room, I stopped in front of a mirror, staring at my reflection and recalled how the sword pierced through my heart. I sighed and rubbed my chest.

I was interrupted by a knock on the door.

“Yes?” I answered.

“My princess, your best friend is here to see you.” The maid at the door said and I frowned.

Best friend, my ass! The best friend I trusted and she betrayed me.

“Let her in.” I responded, and before I knew it, the door flung open and Zora ran in.

“I rushed in here the moment I got the news. You're taking over the throne?” She asked. The disbelief was evident in her tone, and I couldn't help chuckling.

“Why are you surprised?” I asked.

“Because I don't comprehend what's going on. Since this morning, you've been acting entirely different from the person I used to know. Are you sure you're Elora, my best friend?” She asked.

The Elora part, yes, it's still me but best friends? Not anymore.

“It's me. Believe it or not, I'm getting crowned tomorrow. You're invited and oh, don't forget to invite that loser too. What's his name again?” I narrowed my eyes and sat on a chair with my legs folded.

“Lucien?” She sighed. “Come on, Elora. Because he is interested in you doesn't make him a loser.”

“You talk like you know him too well.” I smirked.

She suddenly became silent before ruffling her hair.

“Elora, explain what's going on to me. I'm lost here. The other day, you said that you were going to ascend the throne when you turned 20 and married. What suddenly happened?” She asked.

“I don't think I owe you that explanation,” I retorted. “You can leave for now, Zora. I need to sort some things out on my own. The door's that way.” I used my head to point there and started applying body lotion.

“We'll talk better tomorrow.” She walked out.

I scoffed and continued massaging my body with the cream when my phone beeped.

I stretched my hand and picked it from the bed. It was a text message from Damon. I stood for a while, contemplating on whether to open it or not.

I decided to open it and when I did, my eyes widened.

It read;

“I am standing at your door. I told the maids not to inform you since I want you to give me the orders directly, Luna.”

What the heck is wrong with this person? I sighed and quickly put on a short yellow gown. It was the nearest to me, and I had no choice.

I exhaled and texted him to come in.

The door slowly opened and he stepped in. He had changed his clothes and looked casual. I forced myself not to stare at him.

“Leave us,” I ordered the maids.

They bowed and walked out.

“What do you want?” I snapped.

“Is it wrong to see my mate because I missed her?” He asked. His eyes are not leaving my body.

“I won't warn you again, Damon. Do not call me your mate. I am not your mate!” I snapped.

He chuckled and started walking towards me. I moved back, but he followed until my back hit the wall. He bent to look into my eyes. Our faces were only inches apart, and his hot breath fanned my face.

My heart beat accelerated, and I couldn't stop my body from the reaction. I wanted to avoid moving because if I did, I might end up kissing him.

He bent his head and I quickly closed my eyes. When nothing happened, I opened them slowly to see him looking at me with a bemused expression on his face.

He suddenly started laughing and I frowned.

“You said you aren't my mate, but I see something entirely different in your eyes, my love.” He blew me a kiss.

“You!” I growled in embarrassment.

“Were you expecting me to kiss you, mate?” He asked.

“Stop annoying me.” I snapped.

“It's the truth, you were expecting a kiss.” He chuckled.

I felt like throwing him through the window. “Just get out. I don't want to see your face.”

“But, I want to see yours.” He argued.

“Get out!” I growled louder this time and he chuckled.

Dammit. He is so annoying.