Lyne knew this wasn't going to be a good idea. Following her sisters to the South Jungle was only going to be the same as before. Full of teases, taunting, and more bullying.

Her father can only do two things to help. Call her a weakling for not being able to stand up for herself or repeat the story about how she is nothing like her late mother.

Lyne watched all her siblings shift into wolves and run through the jungle, going to hunt. She so much wished she could do the same.

Going inside her room, she grabbed her bonnet and her boots. She was wearing black pants and a yellow long-sleeved top to protect her skin from the biting sun. She went under her bed and brought out a box on which was inscribed on it her mother's name in bold.

Gillian.

Opening it, she grabbed the bow and arrow that was inside it and admired it at first as she ran her fingers through the weapon.

Looking through the corridor, she realized it was empty.

Lyne wasn't certain what she was doing but she hoped it wouldn't lead her into trouble. Passing through the back of the building that stood erect behind a fence built with large rocks, she passed through the shabby grasses that rose in the middle. She passed by scattered flowers that were so pulled together she wondered if there was a path there.

When she couldn't get through, she knew she had no choice but to climb the fence. Wearing her hair up in a ponytail, she climbed the wall and jumped down to the other side. A dangerous attempt, all to prove her worth.

For a moment, she felt free and able to do whatever she wants. She ran through the woods and into the forest as the morning air brushed through her hair. This was it. Freedom. That was what she's always wanted. She felt the moment in her skin, her head, her heart until a spear crossed her front and went deep into a tree.

She gasped and missed her steps, causing her to fall.

"I'd suggest you watch where you're going, next time missus." A deep voice that sounded angelic seeped through her eardrums and for a while, she felt shy and didn't want to look back at the owner of the voice.

"Are you ok?" The voice called again and hearing footsteps, she knew he was coming towards her.

What if he was one of her father's army? What if he was sent to kill the Royal family and he recognizes her? He'll surely kill her.

"I won't hurt you," she heard him say and this time, his voice was firm but assuring.

Slowly, she let her eyes meet his and her heart skipped many beats for she has never seen such a handsome man before.

Intelligent ocean blue eyes gaze back at him with such innocence he was forced to feel pity for her instantly.

Her straight blonde hair worn up gave him a perfect view of her stature. Long beautiful necks that looked soft enough to be rubbed, plus kissable lips.

He tried to comport himself as he remembered he has a woman at home. Clearing his throat, he stretched his hands forward and helped her to her feet.

"Pardon me, ma'am. I just couldn't help but be security conscious." He tried to explain, sounding normal.

"You could have killed me!" The woman's reply shocked him to the bones. A soft-looking woman with such an authoritative attitude. Being a King, he wondered why he finds her amusing.

"Next time, you and your horse can wear medicated glasses before you commit murder!" She dusted her clothes, looking visibly angry, but trying every means to avoid looking into his eyes.

"I'm sorry. I already said that before. I didn't think you'd still be this upset," he looked at her confused but the lady's reply got him in the belt.

"What? I didn't know there is a certain number of times you should apologize for attempted murder. If you have a stinking ego, you should know who to direct it to, not me!" Lyne spat before running back to the way she came from, back to the palace before the others returned.

She glanced backward and saw the man climbing his horse back and riding away.

The trip to South Jungle just keeps getting worse.

Zeidan kept wondering who the lady was and how she got that kind of confidence. He couldn't push her away from his thoughts and soon, he found himself smiling as he remembered her action.

His other men had caught up with him and as Wikh rode beside him, he twitched his lips wondering what his King had found amusing.

"I see you just finished watching a comedy show. What happened your Highness?" He inquired from Zeidan who just looked at him and raised his brows quizzically.

"Oh goodness me!" Wikh clicked his tongue in disbelief as to the King's change of attitude.

The large royal house in the jungle was becoming visible to them as they rode.

They got to the large gates that guard the place but were surrounded by Wolves who gritted their teeth, ready to pounce and attack.

As furious as he felt, he tried his best to remain calm. The cries of his people and his father especially rang in his head once again. His Father's last words as he closed his eyes to rest in eternal bondage. His gums were aching again, veins popping out of his forehead. He tasted blood in his mouth and as he licked his lips, he realized his fangs were out and he had bitten himself.

"How are you doing, Korba?" Zeidan stared hard at one of the wolves with brown spiky fur and a bony cheek. His face held so much confidence knowing how his vampire powers always helped him read thoughts.

The other wolves gasped as they all stared at Korba.

"You know him?" One of them with muddy-colored fur queried, eyes widened.

Korba stood her ground as she stared into Zeidan's eyes, her slant eyes dilating.

"I believe you are preparing for your wedding with Azrael and you're trying your best to prove you are capable of being the wife to an army chief." As they all gasped, Korba still confused, jumped down from his horse and walked up to them majestically.

They all clenched their teeth in defense but were surprised to see the tall handsome man smile and bow.

"Your highnesses, I've only come for good and not for evil. I'm here to see the King." He began, not missing his captivating smile.

"And who are you?" He looked up to see the owner of the voice and he saw a big black Wolf.

He couldn't miss the description of the most ruthless army of the pack. One whose name has been on the lips of his subjects for ages. The one who killed his Father. He narrowed his eyes.

"Azrael!" He called. "Good to see you. It's me, King Zeidan of Vampire City. I'm here to see the Alpha," he was startled as the smallest of the wolf howled loudly.

Another one that was on the building started beating a big drum and immediately, he knew they were announcing the arrival of a stranger. Slowly, the gates were opened and he was led in with his entourage, the wolves pinning their eyes on his every movement.

Once they were assured their horses have been led to a safe stable, they were led into the palace. They walked through the long corridor that was lined with doors on each side. When they got to where they would turn to where the King would always sit. He didn't miss the detailed decoration.

From the silver ornaments to the golden curtains that beautified the windows. The chrysanthemums, the lily flowers, and the sunflowers all laced the tables and a red rug spread on the floor. He was deeply engrossed in his observation he didn't know when he bumped into someone.

"Oh, I'm so sorry!" She heard a tiny voice and he knew he couldn't miss it.

"Aggressive queen?" He called as he laughed at her.

His men looked at him, surprised. They had never seen the King laugh this heartily.

"Hey, arrogant idiot!" Lyne called back, already regretting her words as she saw that he looked like royalty.

"What are you doing here? Serving the King?" Zeidan inquired mockingly, his lips twitching.

Lyne shot him a glare before moving close to him as if to attack him, eyes not leaving each other.

"Lyne!" She heard someone call and she closed her eyes tight as she almost cursed the person who interrupted her best moment.

"Well," she faced Zeidan. "This isn't over yet." She walked away but not without shouting, 'Arrogant idiot!'

Zeidan proceeded towards the palace where from afar, one could see the huge throne covered in a red velvet texture. On each side of the throne, two golden wolf statues are placed.

He walked in majestically, ignoring the annoying growls of the wolves on his sides as he walked past them to the Alpha who sat on the throne in his human form.

"Who do we have here?" Styx's deep voice seared through the throne room, causing Zeidan to clench his fists harder.

He has silver hair that was so long it touched his shoulder. His beards were a mixture of silver and black as they barely left space for his tiny mouth.

As he smiled, the others could make out his brown teeth with slightly longer incisors. He looked like he was six feet tall with broad shoulders and chest. A ruthless feature for a ruthless Alpha.

When he got closer to the throne, a few feet away from it, he bowed slightly.

"I have come to see your Majesty." He informed, his dark gaze sweeping across the Wolves who stare at him intently.

"This doesn't look like a pleasant visit, King Zeidan of the Vampire city. Come now to the courtroom while we talk about what is bothering you," Styx laughed hardly much to the vampire's distaste as he rose from his throne, his bulging stomach protruding from his red robe.

"Follow me," Zeidan asked his men to wait for him outside while he followed, and then he disappeared into the room just behind the throne.

"Grrrrr!" A grey-colored wolf growled at the men who frowned.

Wikh stepped forward and like lightning, his face changed into a horrible monster with half his face rotten and fangs as long as a needle. His eyes are now black and his head full of smoke.

The wolves whined and retreated. Wikh transformed back into a human and adjusted his coat.

"Next time, learn your manners," he scoffed and focused on the room through which Zeidan had gone through, his gaze darker.

Luana strode across the corridor, scanning the whole place. She walked past some staff who were busy cleaning the place, while some were in charge of guarding the place.

She walked up to a room with a large and heavy metallic door. Something looked off about it and she wondered what was inside it.

Looking around, she moved closer and saw a lock just at the center which means opening it required a passcode.

She tried numerous times but didn't get it. She gave up after many trials and walked back to her room where she watched the breeze play with the grasses. She then remembered her night with Zeidan before his trip to the South Jungle.

He had come inside the room at exactly midnight looking tired but still handsome as before. She didn't look bad herself as she was wearing her lingerie and had just taken a shower and washed her hair with strawberry shampoos.

She had spread different scented flowers over the bed. Zeidan had smiled with amusement written over his face. He walked up to her on the bed, his face resting on her neck as he perceived her hair. He was lost in the softness and sweet smell. But he felt so tired.

"What do you say we make of this night?" Luana inquired as she brought up his face to meet hers, a wet smile playing on her lips.

"Whatever her ladyship pleases." He was aroused already and he couldn't wait to penetrate his soon-to-be Queen.

Tearing off his shirt, he pulled her legs so she was laying on her back. With his index finger, he trailed her thighs up to her core and played with it for a moment. He allowed her to savor each moment with her moans of pleasure.

"What do you feel?" She asked him as he trailed kisses on her neck causing her to arch her back to fit into his body.

"Nothing yet" she heard him reply but she couldn't tell if it was a lie or it was the truth. But there was only one way to find out.

She pushed him gently until he was laying on the bed and she was on him. Sitting comfortably on his hips, she trailed kisses all over his chest and face. Moments into the caress, they were both over the roof as she removed whatever was left of her clothing, and he did the same. Together they moved in unison, feeling their skin joined together. But throughout their lovemaking, if that's what she can call it, she felt like she did all the work.

Back to reality, she bit her fingers and wondered if this is it. She found love after several failed attempts. The breeze played with her hair and a few strands cover her eyes as she flashed back to many of her breakups with human men who thought she was too weird.

Then, when she thought it was time to give up on love, she found the right one. She will make sure to hold Zeidan tightly so as not to lose him.

Remembering the night again, she jerked up as she remembered Zeidan telling her the code to the room.

"...it's the name of someone that I can never forget..."

She ran to the room again and typed the word "Hail" and the door clicked open, much to her amazement.

Walking in, she was surprised at the number of technology it withheld. But amidst the whole mess, something green and shiny lay in the middle of the room on a rock. Its light illuminated the room.

As she moved close to it, she hit her right foot on an object. Looking down she picked up a pink little plastic with a few pills inside it.

Zeidan never mentioned being on any medication, she thought. However, she thought it best to keep it. Swiftly, she moved out of the room, locking the door behind her.

Zeidan followed the ruthless Alpha into the room, counting from one to ten several times to suppress the urge to punch him in the face.

Soon they were both sitting on chairs facing opposite each other, by the fireplace. From across the room, Zeidan could notice a wooden box which was obvious that people who are interrogated are made to stand in it. Asides that, the only thing he can make of the room is the high table where he was sure the Alpha of the packs would sit to pass his verdict.

"I have ways known you would come asking for help someday. You can't be the all-powerful forever!" Styx's voice jerked him back to focus.

He looked at the man before him and calmly replied.

"I have come to ask for your help, Styx," he rubbed his palms together, as he leaned forward.

"What is it you wish to ask for?" Styx leaned back in his chair, leg swung carelessly on the arm of the furniture.

"Zeidan?" He added.

"The...the Werecats, they're attacking us," Zeidan let it out but paused mid-air thinking of how best to say this.

"Go on."

"My men are less in number compared to yours and in terms of security, your army holds a great reputation for that. I ask that your men ally with mine so we can fight these Werecats and secure the long-lasting treasure that our fathers have bequeathed to me."

"When do you want my army?" That came out different from what Zeidan had expected. Shifting uncomfortably, he replied.

"In a month, as the Werecats have promised to attack anytime in two months."

"Two months?"

He nodded.

Styx narrowed his gaze. "I agree."

"Really?" He sat up, swallowing very hard.

Styx stood up and walked to the fireplace where a box was placed on the cabinet above it. He removed a sheet of paper and a stamp from it and went back to sit.

"All you need to do is sign an agreement on this piece of paper," he smiled slyly as he handed over the paper to the man before him.

Zeidan went through it and on the paper, the Alpha's scribbled writing sprawled on it.

"In honor to whatever deal is made, both parties are ordered to seal it by signing while the Alpha stamps it to finalize the deal."

"What's the condition?" Zeidan asked immediately knowing what the paper implies.

"I'll have possession of a quarter of the Onyx to improve the technology of the Werewolves. Under the law of this stamp, I'll have part of the treasure," he licked his lips as the younger man was beginning to get uncomfortable.

As less evil as the Werewolves may be compared to the Cats, he still cannot trust the Onyx to be in their possession.

"If that is what you want, I'm sorry, but you can't have it." He pretended to prolong the cooperation just as he had planned with Luana.

"So." Styx picked his words with caution as the Vampire King was beginning to rise. "You seem it wise to let your enemies defeat you and take over all of your possessions simply because you refused to give out something simple."

"It's not a simple jewelry!" Zeidan roared back but had to calm down as he exhaled, remembering the purpose of his visit.

Sitting back down, he faced Styx squarely.

"I propose something better. You'll have part of the Onyx but only till we defeat the Werecats. After the war, you must return the Onyx. To honor our alliance, I'll marry one of your daughters."

"Well, here's an addition to your lackadaisical proposition," he twitched his lips. "You'll do one more thing before I can release my army."

Dropping the basket full of her siblings' clothes on the grassy floor outside on the lawn, Lyne's thoughts wandered back to what had ensued between the strange man and her.

What is the man doing in the palace? Is he one of her Father's acquaintances? If so, she might be in big trouble. She bit her lips, her face looking worrisome.

"Hey!" She was startled by her annoying twenty-six years old brother, Charles. He is one of her biggest bullies and never ceases to remind her of how useless and irrelevant she is to the family.

His blonde hair sits beautifully on his head and although they're both not on good terms, Lyne will still give him credit for his good looks supported with green eyes and pink lips.

He was wearing his hunting attire and she wondered if he went hunting as a human, contrary to the rules of the pack or if he shifted from the hunting attires. But if that was so, the attires would be trashed by now because they always tear off. This is why wolves are urged to wear sheets or linens to cover their nakedness when shifting.

"What worries my beautiful sister?" He asked, tone indicating pure mockery.

"It's none of your business, Charles," she picked a blue sheet from the basket and clipped it to the lines where they always spread clothes.

"Just as spreading our clothes isn't any of your business. It's the work of the maids," Charles giggled annoyingly.

"But you all make me do it anyway," she shot at him before resuming her work.

"That's why you must tell me. It's none of my business but I gotta know anyways." He spread his hands as if awaiting a hug.

Lyne swallowed before giving in.

"I'm just wondering who that strange man is. Why is he here?"

"That I don't know. But I must say, he's not a friend to us but a foe. His people have caused more havoc than you can ever imagine. If you come across one while you're defenseless, they won't think twice before killing you."

"What?" Her heart skipped a beat as she remembered how he threw an arrow at her. She could have been killed by a man whose looks she almost fell stupidly for.

"He is the King of the vampires."

"Lies!" Her eyes were now laced with tears.

"Oooh!" Charles whistled. "Is someone having feelings for an enemy? I've always known you're a freak."

"No, not that! He almost killed me, Charles!"

Her brother's eyes darkened and his fists were clenched for the first time. She saw her brother trying to stand up for her.

He turned and made his way towards the palace while she sat on the grass crying hard and wondering how she escaped from death narrowly.

She sniffled and rose, following her brother to see what he was up to but had to stop at the entrance behind him. They both stood there, eavesdropping on the King and Zeidan's conversation.

"I'm wondering why you want to marry any of my daughters." she heard her Father say to Zeidan who shot him a deadly look.

"That's because I'm cutting down on your interest," he replied tilting his head to the side.

Who will Father be giving out this time? Obviously as a prey. Her heart clutched hard and her breath held as she listened intently.

"Impressive!" Styx inquired.

There was silence for a while before he spoke up again.

"Who among my daughters are you taking? And I hope you do know she's the only partner you'll ever have. That's the vampire rules, I hear."

"Anyone of your daughters is fine by me."

Styx laughed heartily but his laughter sounded like poison and sounded more like a spear through her heart as she heard him mention her name. His eyes filled with delight as they gave unspoken words that showed he has now gotten what he wanted. The Onyx. However, he can only give to the Vampires someone who isn't worthy of staying with the Pack. Someone irrelevant.

"Lyne," he muttered and Charles turned to go, leaving her to her fate.

With her heart in her mouth, she slid her back down the wall and sat on the floor.

So as not to make noise, she bit her sleeve and sobbed hard.

What fate has for her with the Vampire king, she doesn't know yet, but she knew she will never forgive her family for leading her to the slaughter altar.