Trapped with the Alpha King

“Will you die for them?”

The Alpha King’s voice was cold enough to silence the hall. And Althea heard the answer long before she spoke it… not from herself, but from the minds screaming around her.

‘Just sacrifice yourself.’

‘You’re nothing.’

‘You should die for us.’

Her gift or curse let her hear and read every hateful thought, every desperate plea. And even then, she still stepped forward. She chose to protect the weak, the innocent, the only ones who had ever shown her kindness… even if the price was her life.

But Gavriel Kingsley, the Alpha King, didn’t kill her.

He wanted something else.

Ownership.

"You are mine now," His voice barely above a whisper.

“As a slave?!”

The King chuckled, his gaze dark as midnight. “As my breeder.”

Will You Die to Save Them?

“W-Where are you taking me?!”

Althea’s hands scraped against the cold stone wall as she tried to grab onto anything. But she was too weak, too small. The two men dragging her barely felt her resistance. They hauled her like she weighed nothing.

She didn’t know how long she’d been locked in that dark dungeon Luna Meena had thrown her into. Time blurred as everyone above scrambled to flee after her father’s message arrived telling the entire pack to escape immediately. His attempt to overthrow the Alpha King had failed.And now the wrath of the Realm of the Moon was coming for them.

“Please…” she whispered as they pulled her up the stairway. Her eyes burned from the sudden brightness at the surface.

The world above was chaos. Torches blazed. Fire spread across the cottages. Screams and cries ripped through the night.

Althea’s eyes widened in horror. Blood soaked the ground and bodies lay everywhere. Her father’s pack was being wiped out.

Her heart sank. Her breath stopped.

She didn’t ask the men anything else because the answer was already in front of her. She knew the moment she saw the destruction that their pack had fallen. Her father wasn’t becoming the new Alpha King. He was now a traitor.

And she… she was being dragged to die because she carried his blood.

Althea squeezed her eyes shut as her shoulders slumped. Luna Meena hadn’t taken her with them. They escaped without her. Left her here to face the Alpha King’s fury alone.

They abandoned her.

And now she would walk toward the end she didn’t deserve.

But when they dragged her into the grand hall, what she saw made her blood run cold.

Everyone was there… Luna Meena, her father’s other mistresses, her half-siblings and even the servants who abandoned her.

All on their knees. Heads bowed.

Waiting.

Then… a scream. THUD.

Her half-brother’s body crashed beside her, a pool of blood spreading like ink across the marble floor. Althea choked back a scream.

A familiar man stepped forward, face blank, blade dripping. He wiped the sword on her brother’s sleeve without a second glance.

“Anyone else care to run and escape?” he asked, calm as if talking about the weather.

No one moved. No one breathed. Then his gaze landed on her. He wasn’t just a guard based on his silver-trimmed armor and the force of his presence. He was, in no doubt, one of the Alpha King’s most trusted warriors.

‘Gamma Simon.’ Althea quietly thought. She recognized him because he once visited their pack to personally deliver a message from the Alpha King last week.

“That one’s human,” he said, eyeing Althea. “No need for silver.” A guard reached to shackle her anyway.

“Move, traitor-blood,” the guard snapped, shoving her forward.

Althea stumbled. Her eyes lifted, just for a second, and met the guard’s gaze. His sick thought hit her like a slap. ‘She’s the most beautiful of Alpha Cain’s daughters. Killing her would be a waste… I will love to take her to my bed first. I wonder how she tastes when I-’

She quickly looked away, her stomach twisting.

Whether a gift or curse… she hated this ability to hear and read people’s thoughts through eye contact. It had saved her life more than once but some truths were too disgusting to bear.

“You know the law,” Gamma Simon looked around at the kneeling pack inside the hall and said coldly. “Alpha Cain committed treason and his bloodline must pay.”

“If the rest of the pack bends the knee, they might be spared. But the traitor’s family…” he let the silence drag, “…their fate belongs to the Alpha King.”

Everyone knew what that meant. The Alpha King was ruthless and there was only one fate waiting for Cain’s bloodline… DEATH.

Just then…

“The Alpha King approaches.”

Silence fell like a hammer.

Althea’s head snapped up, and there he was. Gavriel Kingsley, the Alpha King of the Moon Continent.

He stepped into the hall like a storm wearing a man’s shape. Tall. Broad-shouldered. Every line of him radiated authority. His sharp, predatory gray eyes swept over the room, missing nothing.

Althea swallowed hard. He hadn’t spoken a single word, but the weight of his presence crashed down on everyone the moment he entered. His power didn’t need an announcement. It filled the air on its own.

Althea’s breath caught as her eyes met his, just for a moment-

But there was nothing... She read nor heard nothing in those intimidating eyes of his.

Her gift, the one that always worked, failed for the first time.

‘Why can’t I read him?’ she thought, heart pounding. Realizing she stared far too long, she quickly looked down.

“They are all here, Alpha King,” Gamma Simon reported. “Except for Alpha Cain, his son Rett, and his Beta Lucio.”

Still, Gavriel said nothing. He walked slowly, cold eyes scanning each face, each trembling child, each sobbing woman. Then he stopped in front of Luna Meena.

The woman quickly bowed her head, hitting the floor.

“Please, Alpha King!” Luna Meena cried. “We didn’t know anything about Alpha Cain’s betrayal. Please, have mercy! We’ll do anything! Spare us!”

Silence.

Then his voice, deep and cold, filled the hall, “Will you die to save them?”

Gasps echoed then there was stillness while Luna Meena’s face went pale.

“The punishment for treason is death to the traitor’s bloodline,” Gavriel said. “But I will grant mercy. If one of you takes responsibility.”

He stared at Luna Meena. “One life for the rest. Yours.”

Luna Meena hesitated. Her lips parted, but no sound came out. Althea didn’t need to hear her thoughts to know what she was thinking. But she did anyway…

‘Why should I die? I’m the Luna. Noble. Important. That weak girl should be the one. Let her die!’

Then the words left Luna Meena’s mouth, sharp and full of venom.

“Take her!” she screamed, pointing at Althea. “Alpha Cain will be devastated if she dies!”

Her voice cracked with desperation. “Even if he’s in hiding, killing his favorite daughter will break him! She’s nothing, just a weak human born from a slave! No one will raise another rebellion for her death. But Alpha Cain? He’ll suffer. He cherishes that bastard more than anyone!”

Althea stood frozen as all eyes turned to her.

“Take her life instead! She was Cain’s favorite! The reason he lost his mind! Kill her and end this!”

A Breeder

Luna Meena’s eyes burned with hatred as she spoke, but her trembling body betrayed her fear of the king who stood just a few feet away.

Luna Meena was right, her death wouldn’t spark another rebellion. She was a nobody, born to a slave, unlike Luna Meena, who came from noble blood. Althea was just one of many daughters of the Alpha of the Southwest Territory of the Moon Continent, easily discarded, easily forgotten.

Althea barely had time to react before she felt small hands grab her skirt. Her younger half-siblings, the twins, Liah and Seth, were clutching her sides like terrified pups.

“Big sister…” Liah whispered, her voice shaking. “Are we all going to die?”

Althea’s chest tightened. The children… they didn’t deserve this. They were innocent. They had no part in their father's rebellion. Her older half-brothers? Yes, they had cheered their father’s ambition, encouraged the treason. But these two? They only wanted to live.

Forcing a small smile through the lump in her throat, she knelt and gently held the twins.

“Don’t worry,” she whispered. “You two will live.” Then she winked at them.

Her heart was pounding as she turned to face the Alpha King. He stood there, motionless, unreadable. His cold gaze pinned her in place, making it hard to breathe. Every step he took closer felt like a tightening chain around her lungs.

Then, finally, he stopped in front of her. “Will you die for them?” he asked, voice low, deadly calm. One brow arched, challenging.

Althea’s breath caught. Her gaze subconsciously swept the hall.

‘Just sacrifice yourself! You’re nothing compared to our lives! You’re a disgrace to this family!’

‘You should die and save us! You’re pathetic, and your life has no meaning! What are you looking at? Just say yes!’

Those were the thoughts of some she hated. Others she pitied remained crying. They were the servants who had no choice but to follow what the Luna and the other mistresses told them to do, just to make her life insufferable.

Was she truly willing to sacrifice herself for them? Is this how my pathetic life will really end? she wryly thought.

Then her eyes darted to her little siblings. To the friends… and the few pack members who had always been kind to her. They were the ones she cared for. The ones she loved.

"Answer me." Gavriel commanded, his voice cold as winter.

Althea didn’t flinch. “If my death means their lives, then yes,” she firmly said. “Take me.”

And the room exploded. Gasps. Screams. Cries of protest. Someone dropped to their knees, sobbing.

“You choose death?” he asked, voice low and level.

Her throat tightened, but she met his stare. She swallowed. “I choose life… for them.” She turned her head slightly, just enough to see Liah and Seth weeping behind her, Seth shaking, barely able to breathe.

“If death buys their lives to live, I’ll pay it.”

Something flickered in King Gavriel’s eyes, gone too fast to name.

“No! You can’t take her life!”

Tristan’s voice suddenly cracked through the grand hall like thunder as he broke free from the guards. Blood smeared his chin as his knees hit the floor and bowed his head to the alpha king.

He was one of her closest friends, and although Tristan never spoke of his feelings, Althea knew he loved her, far more than just a friend.

“Please, not her. Take me instead!” Tristan pleaded. “Don’t let her do this! I’ll take her place!”

More voices rose.

“She’s innocent!”

“She saved my daughter! Please have mercy on Lady Althea!”

“Take me, not her!”

Dozens dropped to their knees.

“Please, Alpha King! She doesn’t deserve this!”

Althea bit her lower lip, fighting back the tears that welled in her eyes. She swallowed hard and closed her eyes. She never thought she’d feel this overwhelmed, especially standing so close to the brink of death.

The guards faltered. Even the high-ranking warriors looked shaken. Then…

“SILENCE!”

Luna Meena’s voice cracked through the chaos, sharp and panicked.

“Stop this nonsense before he kills us all!” she barked, eyes blazing. “She volunteered. Let her die and be done with it!”

No one moved.

“We’ll all die if you keep challenging him!” Meena snarled. “Let her die a noble death and save what’s left of us!”

King Gavriel raised his hand. Silence fell like a guillotine.

He looked at Althea, eyes unreadable. His voice, when it came, was cold steel. “She’ll live.”

Everyone gasped. Even the guards looked stunned.

“What?!” Luna Meena snapped. “Why?!”

King Gavriel didn’t glance at Luna Meena’s way. His gaze stayed on Althea. “She gave herself to me. I accepted.”

Althea’s heart stopped. Not death. Not freedom. Ownership.

His voice barely above a whisper, but it cut through the room. “She is mine now.”

“As a slave?!” Meena spat.

Gavriel’s eyes flicked toward her, dark as midnight. “As my breeder.”

A beat of silence.

Then gasps. Horror. Disbelief.

Althea didn’t react. Couldn’t. Her body was ice. But her mind screamed.

A breeder?

But they were safe right? He wouldn’t kill them and that was all that mattered.

“What about us?!” Luna Meera demanded, desperate now. “You said her life would save the rest of us, what about the rest of us, my king?!”

Gavriel’s eyes, dull and uncaring, landed on her as he spoke, “As Cain’s Luna… and his lawful wife… You’ll die so his pack members and the rest of his family will be saved.”

Luna Meena staggered back as if struck.

“You can’t,” she rasped. “You can’t mean that…”

Gavriel didn’t blink. “Take her.”

Meena’s face twisted… rage, fear, and disbelief all blended as she screamed, clawing at the guards when they seized her arms.

“You liar! You tyrant! You said-”

Her shrieks faded into the distance as they dragged her out, leaving silence in the grand hall.

Meanwhile, Althea didn’t move. She couldn’t. Her body trembled beneath the weight of what had just happened.

Looking intently at Althea, the Alpha King remarked, “You were ready to die for them, but now you will live… for me.”

His Fated Mate

Althea bit her lower lip, fighting back the tears that welled in her eyes. She swallowed hard and closed her eyes. She never thought she’d feel this overwhelmed, especially standing so close to the brink of death.

Her eyes accidentally locked with the king’s. In that brief moment, something inside her twisted. His gaze was cold, unreadable, like he was already weighing her life, deciding her worth.

This man… he looked at her like she was nothing. Like she was property.

And that made her blood boil.

She had spent her entire life yearning to be free, and now? Now she was nothing but his breeder?

It felt worse than death.

“Take her back to her chamber,” he commanded as he turned his back on her.

Althea didn’t resist when they came for her. She kept her eyes lowered.

‘If only I could read the Alpha King’s mind,’ she thought bitterly. That would’ve made everything easier, she’d know exactly what he intended for her. But no matter how hard she tried, she couldn’t read his thoughts.

‘Why can’t I read his mind?’ she wondered, frustrated. It had never happened before.

“Please, let me go with her! I’m Melva, her personal servant!” Melva suddenly cried out, trying to reach her.

Gavriel’s eyes narrowed. After a pause, he said, “Let her.”

His gaze flicked back to Althea. “You know what will happen if you try anything foolish.”

His voice was calm, but it carried an edge that warned of consequences. Then, without waiting for a reply, he turned and walked away.

Althea stared after him. She had heard the rumors that the Alpha King was a cold-hearted, merciless tyrant, incapable of love or empathy.

And now, after meeting him face-to-face, it seemed every word was true.

The guards escorted them back to her chambers, and Melva hurried to tend to her wounds. But barely a moment had passed when the door slammed open again. A guard stepped in and said, “The Alpha King wants her bathed, cleaned, and prepared for him. Have her ready. Now.”

Inside Althea’s chamber, Melva continued sobbing until Althea gently took her hands and squeezed them gently.

“Stop crying, Melva,” she said softly. “It’s already a blessing that we’re alive. I’m alive, and so are the people I care about.”

“That’s true, but still… to be a breeder without a proper title?” Melva sniffled, her voice trembling. “My lady, you’re too frail. You won’t be able to keep up with the Alpha King. He’s a Lycan, his stamina is far beyond that of ordinary werewolves. And you… you’re a hybrid without a wolf. You’re more human than anything else.”

Althea understood what she meant, but there wasn’t exactly a choice left to her now. She offered Melva a faint smile. “Don’t worry. I can handle it.”

Melva wiped her tears quickly and nodded. “Yes… yes, we must think positively. Maybe this could turn out well. We both know the Alpha King refused to take a queen, right? Who knows? You might end up becoming his queen. You just need to do well and win his favor!”

Althea looked away, doubt tightening in her chest. She didn’t believe that… couldn’t.

She was the daughter of a traitor. Her father was the Alpha King’s sworn enemy. Gavriel hadn’t taken her in out of kindness or interest. He’d claimed her as a breeder, nothing more. A cruel reminder that her only worth in his eyes was to warm his bed and bear his children whenever he pleased.

“Something still doesn’t make sense. Why would he want you as a breeder?” Melva asked, her brows drawn tight in confusion. “It would’ve made more sense if he just took you as a slave or… a sex slave. But a breeder?”

Althea gave her a wry smile and shrugged. “It’s to disgrace my father. A breeder is basically a sex slave, just dressed up with a more acceptable term.”

“Yes, but it also means you’ve been chosen to bear the royal bloodline,” Melva pointed out, eyes narrowing. “We’re talking about King Gavriel here! He’s never taken a mistress at all. The man hates having women around him. So why you? Why make you his breeder?”

Althea watched her friend’s expression twist in thought until, suddenly, Melva gasped and slapped a hand over her mouth.

“No way! Could it be that you’re-?”

Althea’s brow furrowed. “What?”

“His fated mate,” Melva whispered, eyes wide in disbelief.

Althea scoffed lightly and shook her head. “There’s no way to confirm that, Melva. I don’t feel the mate bond. I’m more human than a werewolf. My senses are dull, I can’t heal on my own…”

But Althea had no idea why she possessed the strange ability to read minds just by looking into someone’s eyes. Her mother was said to be nothing more than a pure human slave, with no hint of wolf blood.

Melva’s eyes suddenly lit up with realization. “That could be it! You’re probably his fated mate, and he felt the bond! This… this could be heaven’s mercy!” she said, breathless with hope. “The Alpha King would never let just anyone carry his offspring. He’s too proud, too cold. But if you’re his fated mate, My Lady… you can use this. This bond, if I’m right, could be your only protection. Your only power.”

Althea shook her head, brushing her fingers against her temple. “I don’t know, Melva. Even if I am his fated mate… would that matter to him? He made it clear, I’m just a breeder to him. Nothing more.”

Melva gently took her hand. “Then you need to make him see you. Not as a breeder. Not as the traitor’s daughter. But as his mate.”

Althea let out a bitter laugh. “That sounds like a fantasy.”

“Maybe,” Melva said, giving her a sad smile, “but it’s the only one we have. And I’d rather hold onto a sliver of hope than nothing at all.”

Althea sighed, torn between fear and the tiniest spark of something else, something like defiance. Maybe Melva was right. Maybe this wasn’t the end… yet.

She straightened, her voice steadier than before. “Then help me get ready, Melva. If I’m going to face him tonight, I want to look like anything but defeated.”

Melva nodded, wiping her eyes and rolling up her sleeves. “That’s the spirit, My Lady. Let’s make him regret ever calling you just a breeder.”

Melva quickly helped Althea bathe and dress her in one of her finest gowns. By the time Melva finished brushing out her long, wavy auburn hair, the door swung open.

“The Alpha King wants you now,” came a woman’s voice.

The Traitor’s Daughter

Althea turned at the sound of footsteps and saw a stunning woman standing in the doorway. Her shoulder-length blonde hair framed a striking face, but her sharp gaze swept over Althea from head to toe with open disdain.

The fitted black and silver uniform clung to her form like armor, and the gleaming insignia over her chest marked her clearly as one of the Alpha King’s elite royal warriors.

‘This bitch. What does she have that made Gavriel let her into his bed? She’s just a weak hybrid. Sure, she’s pretty, but that doesn’t change the fact that she’s not even a full-blooded wolf. I need to find a way to get rid of her. And fast.’

Althea’s stomach twisted upon reading her thoughts, and her heart pounded against her ribs. The woman’s lips curved into a smile, polite but fake.

“I am Cara Richmond, one of the Alpha King’s royal warriors. Allow me to escort you to His Majesty,” she said smoothly.

Althea furrowed her brow. If she wasn’t mistaken, this woman, Cara, was the daughter of Alpha Ruel of Southeast Territory.

Then, turning to Melva, Cara added, “You’re coming too. The entire pack is gathering to swear loyalty to Alpha King.”

Althea exchanged a glance with Melva, whose expression had gone pale with worry. Still, she nodded and fell in step behind her. They followed Cara through the stone halls of the fortress, heading to the ceremonial open pavilion.

All eyes turned to her the moment she stepped in, and whispers rippled through the crowd like wildfire, both from her pack and the Alpha King’s men. The stares burned her skin.

“She’ll be the Alpha King’s breeder? Why take her as a breeder?”

“That’s Alpha Cain’s favorite daughter?”

“She’s more human, isn’t she? I heard she doesn’t have a wolf.”

“But look at her… she’s beautiful…”

“She’s the reason the Alpha King spared us… We owe her our lives.”

Althea kept her head high, even as her knees threatened to buckle beneath her. At the far end of the hall stood Alpha King Gavriel with his cold demeanour.

“Bring her forward,” Gavriel commanded.

The crowd parted like a tide as Althea was led toward him. Her hands were no longer shackled, but she still felt as if there were a heavy weight of chains dragging behind her.

She stood in front of the Alpha King while the pack members assembled behind her. The once-proud banner of her father had already been taken down, replaced by the fierce crimson emblem of the Alpha King.

Gavriel’s deep voice echoed through the gathering. “From this day forward,” he began, “Shadowthorn Pack is no more. This land, this territory, and all of you now belong to Bloodrise Pack.”

Bloodrise Pack was the ruling pack, the Alpha King’s own. The royal family’s seat of power… feared and revered across all the Werewolf Realm.

Now, her former home no longer belonged to Shadowthorn. It had become part of something much larger, a reminder of who held the power now.

“You will swear your loyalty to me,” he continued. “In return, I will give you protection, purpose, and power but defiance will not be tolerated.”

The crowd began to kneel, one after another, heads bowed in silent surrender. Althea followed suit, sinking to her knees.

“We swear loyalty to Alpha King Gavriel, and we now belong to the Bloodrise Pack,” they chanted in unison, their voices echoing across the clearing like a solemn oath carved into stone.

“Althea Grayson.” Gavriel’s voice was steady, cold.

Althea kept her head bowed, heart thudding.

“Raise your head and look at me,” he commanded.

She obeyed, lifting her gaze to meet his. For a brief second, something flickered in his eyes… pride? Satisfaction? Pity? She couldn’t tell. None of it mattered.

Frustration bubbled inside her. ‘Why can’t I read him?’ He was the only one whose mind remained shut to her gift.

“From this day forward, you belong to me. But your fate will depend on how well you serve me… and how loyal your heart remains.”

She swallowed hard, forcing her trembling voice to respond. “Yes, Your Majesty.”

Then the Alpha King soon dismissed the pack members. Althea stood to leave as well, but his voice stopped her. “Come with me.”

Biting her lower lip, she followed him in silence as he led her to her father’s hidden chamber. Once inside, Gavriel turned to face her with an icy stare sharp as a blade.

“So,” he said, voice like frost, “where do you think your father is hiding?”

A lump rose in her throat. She didn’t know her father’s plans directly since he had never trusted her that much. But she knew how her father truly believed he could take the throne.

Althea took a slow breath as she stepped back while he walked closer to her until her back pressed against the cold stone wall of her father’s secret chamber.

“I asked you a question,” Gavriel grunted. “Where is your father hiding?”

“I... I’m not sure," Althea answered, cursing her voice for trembling.

His eyes narrowed as he moved closer, closing the gap gradually with slow, deliberate steps. She gulped nervously when he halted just inches away, close enough to feel his breath against her cheek.

“What a terrible liar,” he murmured.

Her lips parted, but no words came out. His scent of dark cedar, smoke, and something uniquely his was intoxicating and overwhelming. Her heart thundered in her chest, and she clenched her fists at her sides, trying to resist the strange, magnetic pull he had on her.

He reached up, and she instinctively flinched. But instead of hitting, he softly brushed a strand of hair behind her ear, his thumb skimming her cheek's soft skin. She inhaled sharply as her skin tingled from his touch. His fingers stayed a moment longer, causing a shiver to run down her spine.

"You feel it, don’t you?" His voice was barely above a whisper, but it rumbled through her like thunder.

Strip

"I don’t know what you’re talking about," Althea whispered, even as her heart hammered in her chest. ‘Is he referring to the mate pull? Could Melva be correct? But how could she feel it if she was wolfless?’

His gaze dropped to her lips, and for a moment, she was certain he was about to kiss her… but he didn’t. Her cheeks flushed in embarrassment, so she looked away.

Then, without warning, he grabbed her chin and forced her to look back at his intense and consuming stare.

"But it doesn’t matter," he said coldly, pulling away. "Your father’s sins are yours to pay."

Althea’s knees went weak, but she forced herself to stand tall. "I’m not him," she weakly defended.

She loved her father, but she didn’t always agree with his actions. She attempted to intervene and reason with him, but it was hopeless. Once Alpha Cain fixed his gaze on something, no one could sway him. His ambition was overwhelming, driven by greed, as he pursued the throne. He aimed to crown himself Alpha King of the entire realm, regardless of the price.

"No," Gavriel said, his voice low. "But his blood runs in your veins." He leaned back slightly, his gaze flicking to her lips again before drifting away.

Althea let out a breath she hadn’t realized she was holding.

"You were his most cherished daughter. He’ll come for you, especially once word spreads that you’ve become my breeder." His tone was lazy, almost mocking, as he moved toward his father’s old chair and comfortably sat in it.

"Serve me a drink," he ordered, eyes narrowing on her like a predator studying its prey.

Althea moved, her fingers trembling as she reached for one of her father's bottles. She poured the dark wine into a gold-rimmed goblet and approached him.

Her face was unreadable, but her eyes locked with his. She tried again to read his mind, to touch even the edge of a thought. But as always, there was nothing but a blank wall.

"You’re the first who doesn’t flinch when looking me in the eyes," Gavriel said, voice low and sharp like the draw of a blade. "Why is that?"

Althea held his stare, her chest rising and falling with each shallow breath.

"Why should I flinch?" she asked softly, but firmly.

Gavriel leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees. He didn’t blink. "Because everyone does," he murmured. "Fear. Power. Take your pick."

She swallowed hard but didn’t look away. "Maybe I’m just too used to being afraid."

It wasn’t a lie. Fear had been her shadow all her life, haunting her, clinging like a second skin. She had seen the darkest corners of people’s minds, the cruel truths hidden behind polished smiles and noble names.

His eyes narrowed. "Or maybe you’re just too reckless."

"Or maybe..." she whispered, her voice trembling but unyielding, "I know what monsters look like. And you’re not the worst one I’ve seen."

Gavriel rose slowly, towering over her. "Careful, little wolf," he murmured, his voice barely above a growl. "You might make me curious."

Althea’s heart thundered in her chest, but she didn’t back away. “Curious?” Althea scoffed. “I thought you already made up your mind about me. A traitor’s daughter. Your breeder. That’s all I am to you, right?”

The words tasted bitter on her tongue, but she needed to say them… needed to hear him say something more. Deep down, she wanted him to confirm whether she was his fated mate and whether he accepted it.

His eyes flashed dangerously. “Don’t push me. You won’t like how I push back.”

“You think I’m scared?” she snapped, her voice sharp, cutting through the heavy air between them. “You already own my life, remember? What more can you take?”

Althea should’ve stayed quiet, meek and small like she used to. That was how she survived for so long. Play harmless. Stay out of sight. Read minds to avoid danger before it touched her.

But now… she couldn’t read the Alpha King. And maybe that was why she was unravelling. Why was she daring to fight back?

His eyes were still on her like he was debating whether to silence her or devour her whole. Gavriel didn’t answer. Instead, he moved. Before Althea could react, he grabbed her arm, not roughly, but firmly. She gasped, but the sound stuck in her throat as he lifted her over his shoulder like she weighed nothing.

“Wha-! Put me down!” she shouted, pounding her fists against his back. His steps were unhurried and measured, like he had all the time in the world. As if her struggling meant absolutely nothing.

“Alpha King Gavriel!” she snapped, twisting in his hold. “You can’t just carry people off like sacks of grain!”

He didn’t stop until they reached her bedchamber. The doors creaked open and slammed shut behind him. Only then did he drop her onto the plush bed without a word. Althea let out a small yelp as she bounced, quickly scrambling upright. Her hair was a mess, and her chest rose and fell with each shaky breath.

“You-!”

Gavriel’s eyes darkened as he stepped closer to the bed. Althea stayed frozen, her breath caught in her throat, her heart pounding wildly against her ribs.

“Strip,” he said, just like that, a command wrapped in velvet steel.

This wasn’t how Althea had imagined her first intimacy with a man. Not like this. Not stripped of choice. But her will had never truly been her own, not since the moment he had claimed her.

“I said strip,” he said, his voice low and sharp. “Or do you want me to do it?” His eyes gleamed with something dark… amusement, hunger, and danger. “If I do, I won’t be gentle. I’ll rip that dress off you without hesitation.”

Althea tensed, her heartbeat quickening. Gavriel sat at the edge of the bed like a predator waiting…

Her eyes darted around the room until they landed on the bottle of wine resting on the table. Desperation pushed her forward. She snatched it up, pulled the cork free with shaky hands, and drank straight from the bottle.

The liquid burned faintly as it slid down her throat, far from strong, but enough. With her low alcohol tolerance, she knew it would give her courage or at least numb the sharp edges of fear. She drank again, needing more courage to do what the Alpha King asked of her.

Then, she took a deep breath and did what was expected of her, reaching for the clasp of her dress.

Althea slowly untied the first string at the back of her neck, letting the fabric slip away. Her pulse quickened with each movement. She had never done this before, never been exposed bare naked in front of a man, but tonight, she had no choice but to go through with it.

Her face felt hot, not only from embarrassment but also from the heat pooling in her belly. The wine... it was affecting her more strongly now. Still, she stood tall, even as her knees wobbled.

“Come here,” Gavriel finally said, his voice low.

She moved forward with hesitant steps.

“Sit on me.” He whispered another order.

The command sent a ripple down her spine, but she obeyed.

Carefully, Althea straddled him, her bare thighs brushing his clothed legs. Gavriel’s hands settled on her hips as he looked up at her.

“You’re braver than most,” he muttered, his thumb brushing the side of her waist. “Or dumber.”

“Maybe both,” she whispered back, her voice barely steady.

His eyes narrowed, yet he remained silent. Instead, he leaned closer and pressed his lips to hers. The kiss was intense, fiery, and frantic, driven not only by desire but by something deeper.

Her fingers clutch his shoulders, her skin igniting at his touch. Gavriel then slowed, his kiss lingering but his expression changing. He withdrew slightly, brow creased. He licked his lips, and his face grew tense, as if he sensed something unpleasant on her.

Althea blinked rapidly, her eyelids fluttering. “I feel… strange…” she whispered. There was an unusual sensation inside her, more intense than her typical low alcohol tolerance.

Suddenly, it hit her… "Poison,” she gasped.

Mark

“Althea,” Gavriel growled, catching her as her body wavered. Her head rested on his shoulder, her warm breath brushing against his skin.

“No… no, no, no,” he muttered softly. He held her close, one hand supporting her head, the other wrapped around her waist.

“Who would dare do this?!” She heard Gavriel grunt, his voice hoarse and angry. “You’re not dying on me,” he growled through gritted teeth.

Althea felt like she was slipping away. The room whirled around her. Her sight dimmed, and each breath became harder to take. Her body burned internally as the wine-turned-poison spread through her blood like wildfire.

Then... suddenly... she felt it...

Something sharp scraped the delicate skin between her neck and shoulder. Her eyes flew open just as she felt a sharp, piercing pain. She gasped, her fingers twitching from the shock.

“Wha-?” she tried to speak, but her voice faltered.

It wasn’t just any pain. It was a bite. His bite… Gavriel’s fangs had punctured her skin.

The heat from his mouth and the intense energy flowing through him surged into her veins like lightning. Her heart trembled and then pounded fiercely. The pain intensified, bringing with it a strange sensation… a pull like an unstoppable force.

"MINE!" he growled.

The moment Gavriel laid Althea’s unconscious body on her bed and saw the blood still damp on the curve of her neck from his bite, something in him snapped. “You’ll survive. Whoever did this will pay. I’ll burn the world down for touching what’s mine.”

He stepped out and turned to his Beta, Osman, whose face had gone pale the second he saw Gavriel’s expression.

“Seal the estate,” Gavriel commanded, his tone icy and precise. “No one is to enter or leave. Find every servant, guard, and anyone who has been in Althea’s chamber since noon today. Bring them all to the throne room at once.

Osman responded without hesitation. “Yes, Your Majesty.”

Within an hour, the palace was shaken by the sound of armored footsteps and shouting, filling every corridor with tension. The guards, kitchen staff, maids, and even Melva were summoned and made to kneel in the dimly lit throne room.

Gavriel, dressed in black with his crimson cloak draped over one shoulder like spilled blood, stood on the stairs, his cold eyes scanning the gathered crowd.

Althea’s scent still hovered behind him… warm and sweet, now mixed with a bitter poison note. Gavriel’s jaw clenched tightly. No human or hybrid could have tolerated such a dose. The attacker who added it to her wine knew exactly what they were doing.

He had no option. He wasn’t meant to mark her. Not yet. Not in these circumstances. But it was the only way to save her.

His Lycan-infused bite was the only way to cleanse her of poison. When his Lycan essence fused with hers through the mark, the venom became harmless. His strength served as her shield, prompting her body to adjust and heal.

It was risky, personal, and lasting. Yet, he would do it again without hesitation. Because the moment he saw her fall and gasp in his arms, her eyes pleading even though her lips could no longer speak… something feral had been unleashed inside him. And that part of him would destroy the entire realm to ensure her survival.

“Someone poisoned the wine given to my breeder,” he said coldly, his voice reverberating off the stone walls. “She drank it and nearly died.”

Gasps spread through the crowd.

Gavriel descended the stairs slowly, each step deliberate and commanding. “I will ask once, who tampered with the bottle on her table? Who touched it? Speak now, or I will force the truth out of you."

Melva shook her head, her eyes filled with fear. “I-I’m the one who always serves her, my King. But I didn’t bring the wine this time... it was already there when I entered her chambers to clean.”

“Who placed it there?” he barked.

The servants shared anxious glances. After a moment, a trembling young maid cautiously stepped forward, head bowed so low her chin nearly touched her chest. "I... I only brought the tray as Lady Cara instructed."

Silence fell sharply. Gavriel’s eyes darkened. “Cara?”

*****

The smell of blood filled the air as Gavriel burst into the courtyard. His eyes resembled stormclouds, cold and crackling with contained rage. Warriors parted silently, not daring to interfere with the Alpha King in such a fierce mood.

“Bring her,” he growled.

Two guards pulled Cara Richmond forward, her face scratched from resisting, her pride lost. She was still beautiful, but fear showed in every part of her face. She fell to her knees, trembling as she gazed up at him.

“My King-” she began, voice cracking.

“You dared touch what is mine,” Gavriel said, his voice low, dangerous. “You poisoned her.”

“She’s a traitor’s daughter!” Cara snapped, tears brimming in her eyes. “She’s filth! Not even worthy to warm your bed, let alone carry your heirs!”

Gavriel’s eyes glowed. “Say that again.”

Cara’s voice wavered. “She’s… she’s not even worthy of being your sex slave. I did this for you! To protect your name, your legacy! She doesn't deserve you, Gavriel. You don't see it now, but she's already making you soft. I did it because I love you and—”

“You love me?” He cut off. “Then you should have followed my orders. You would have known that no one is allowed to touch what belongs to me. No one is allowed to harm her. Not even with a look."

Cara sobbed. “Please, Your Majesty… I was jealous. I lost control. I just- I thought if she was gone…”

“You thought you could win me?” he hissed. “By killing her?”

He stepped forward, causing Cara to stumble backwards. The other guards remained still, unwilling to intervene.

“No, please… I didn’t mean-”

He lifted his hand, claws now extended, gleaming dangerously in the moonlight. “I said no one touches what’s mine. You all heard me.”

Cara opened her mouth to scream, but her words were lost in a sickening, swift strike. Blood stained the stone floor, not a single soul dared breathe.

Gavriel stood over her lifeless body, eyes still burning, chest heaving. Then he turned to the stunned crowd and growled, “If anyone else even thinks of harming my breeder… then I guess it’s a beg for a death this swift.”

Then he walked away, blood dripping from his hand, his only thought consumed by the girl fighting for her life.

His mate.

His.

Prepare Her

A few days later…

Althea’s lashes fluttered slowly as her world appeared hazy, spinning, muffled, and distant at first. Her throat was dry and rough like sandpaper, while her chest felt heavy, as if something was pressing down on it. A groan slipped from her lips as her fingers twitched against the soft sheets.

“Althea!” The voice cut through like sunlight piercing fog. Melva only used her first name when she was deeply worried or furious.

She looked up to see Melva’s teary face looming above her. Her personal servant appeared exhausted, hair dishevelled, eyes swollen, but filled with pure relief.

“You’re awake! Thanks to the Almighty!” Melva exclaimed, softly embracing her. Althea flinched. “W-What... happened?”

“You were poisoned,” Melva gasped, pulling back. “You collapsed in the Alpha King’s arms. We thought... We feared we had lost you, My Lady.”

Her heart beat heavily and slowly. Memories flooded in - the wine, Gavriel’s voice, his eyes, the kiss, and then darkness.

“How long?” she croaked.

“You’ve been unconscious for three days,” Melva said. “We’ve also been traveling for two days now. The Alpha King ordered your chambers dismantled and took you with him to the capital. We’re heading to the Royal Estate, his estate.”

Althea attempted to sit up. She could sense they were in motion. She looked around. Inside, soft blankets, pillows, and fur throws filled the space. It was clearly not a prison. She was aboard a royal caravan, as indicated by the Bloodrise sigil on the cloth.

Her lips quivered. “Why did he... save me?"

Melva bit her lip and muttered, “He marked you.”

Althea’s eyes widened. “What?!”

“When the poison started to shut down your body, he panicked. He marked you to transfer his Lycan essence into your system. It was the only way to neutralize the toxin in time,” Melva explained.

Althea gently placed her hand on her shoulder at the junction where her neck meets the collarbone. Her skin was tender, and under her fingertips, she could feel the wound, subtle yet unmistakable.

She whispered, "He marked me,” her mind racing. "Did he really choose to mark me?” she questioned again, still can't believe it.

Melva nodded quickly. “And you’ve been under heavy guard since. He didn’t let anyone touch you except for me and the healer.”

Althea’s breath hitched. She stared down at her hands, trembling. Marked. She was claimed.

Her thoughts remained as the caravan slowed down. Voices outside called orders, and tents rustled as warriors began setting up for the night.

They paused deep within the forest. Melva carefully assisted Althea in getting up. “Let’s get you some fresh air, My Lady. You’ve been confined for days.”

Althea carefully stepped out of the caravan, her muscles tense yet thankful for the stretch. Melva joined her and handed her a fur cloak. Then she paused briefly before leaning in and softly briefing her.

“The Alpha King’s loyal men are key. Focus on his Beta and Gamma. The tall, broad man with white streaks in his hair? That’s Osman, his Beta. He tends to be more approachable and... gentler than others. People mention he was the King’s closest confidant before Alpha King Gavriel ascended the throne. Gamma Simon is in charge of coordinating the scouting teams, but he appears moody."

Melva glanced around. "And the others? Mostly quiet, obedient, and detached. They don’t speak unless spoken to. They’re wary of you.”

Althea nodded slowly, taking it all in. “Because of who I am.”

“Because of what you might mean to the Alpha King too,” Melva corrected gently.

Before Althea could ask, she sensed it… the presence of someone watching. Her eyes quickly lifted.

Across the clearing, surrounded by the dimming glow of firelight, stood Gavriel. He was dressed in black riding leathers, his dark cloak unfastened and billowing slightly in the wind. His eyes were locked onto her - steady, unreadable, intense.

As usual, she couldn’t penetrate his mind. Then, gradually, he began walking toward her.

Melva stiffened beside her but bowed her head respectfully as Gavriel approached.

“How are you feeling?” Gavriel asked, his voice steady but gentle.

Althea straightened, clutching her cloak more tightly. “Better.”

He observed her for a moment longer, his face showing no emotion. Then he shifted his gaze to Melva. “She stays with me tonight. Prepare her in my tent.”

Melva’s eyes widened. “Y-Your Majesty?”

“She stays with me tonight,” he repeated. And just like that, he turned and strode back into the heart of the camp.

Althea’s stomach twisted as she watched Gavriel walk away. His words echoed in her ears. ‘She stays with me tonight.’

She took a deep breath. The idea of the Alpha King finally claiming her tonight made her nervous. Her heart raced, and her hands grew cold. It was bound to happen eventually, but now that it might be tonight, she wasn’t sure if she was ready.

Althea turned to Melva, and without meaning to, she read her thoughts while staring into her eyes.

‘Will he be intimate with Althea tonight? What if her body can’t handle it? I should prepare her, but… oh, goodness… how can an unmarried woman like me - someone who’s never even been with a man - explain that to her?’

Althea closed her eyes and raised a hand to her temple, her breath faltering. A dull ache spread across her skull. Her energy was still too low and tapping into people’s minds now… it drained her faster than she expected.

“My Lady?” Melva’s voice cut through the haze, gentle but filled with worry. “Are you alright?”

Althea nodded slowly. “Yes. Just… a little tired.”

Melva quickly moved to support her by the arm. “You haven’t even eaten properly today. Come, let’s get you something warm before…” She hesitated, glancing toward the direction of the Alpha King’s tent.

Althea knew what she meant. Before Gavriel called for her again.

“Alright,” she murmured, steadying her breath. “Just something small.”

Melva slipped an arm around her and quietly guided her back to the Alpha King’s tent. Once inside, she made sure Althea ate something first, pushing a warm plate toward her until she finished at least half of it. After that, Melva moved with quiet urgency, gathering clothes, checking supplies, and preparing Althea for what was coming next.

“Just… make sure to please him, My Lady,” Melva whispered, gently combing through Althea’s long hair. “I mean, do what he wants, but try to take some control. That’s what I’ve heard… if you can guide things a bit, it won’t be so bad.”

Althea stayed quiet, listening.

“It’ll hurt at first,” Melva continued, her voice low, “since it’s your first time. But they say it gets easier after. You just have to bear with it. Remember, he marked you. That’s your leverage now. The Mate Bond is strong. Even if the Alpha King despises your bloodline… he won’t be able to harm you.”

Althea turned to her with a small, reassuring smile and took her hand.

“Don’t worry too much, Melva,” she said softly. “I’ll be fine.”

Just as Melva placed the final pin in Althea’s hair, the tent flap lifted. Gavriel stepped inside.

Melva quickly stood and lowered her head. “Your Majesty-”

“You’re dismissed,” Gavriel said flatly, not sparing her a glance.

Melva hesitated only for a moment, eyes flicking toward Althea in silent worry, then dipped into a low bow before slipping out of the tent.

The silence stretched between them. Althea remained seated, spine straight, hands resting on her lap as she tried to control her breathing.

Gavriel removed his cloak and placed it over the small table beside the bed. Then, without looking at her, he spoke again.

“I’ll take a bath.”

Her stomach tightened.

He turned to face her, his eyes sharp beneath the flickering light of the tent’s lanterns.

“Undress me.”