Bianca POV

In just a matter of hours, the WestMoon pack became a hive of activity, swarming with members from the royal pack. Cane's orders cut through the chaos, ordering doctors to aid ailing pack mates and elders to destroy the cursed plant, which was found to be a sister to the wolfsbane plant, and immediate contact meant a lethal dose. An enchantment was placed on the already dangerous flower causing it to use Elijah as a host and drain him of everything. It was explained that as the flower grew, its roots would have spread throughout the home, buried themselves into the soil, and eventually killed everyone in the WestMoon pack.

The doctors were able to heal the sick, and it wasn't long again; all were cleared of any effects from the poisonous flower. My hypothesis was correct; Carson shifted for the first time two nights after the fever—at only eleven, the youngest in the pack's history. The elders said his body was too far along to stop, and his first shift was inevitable.

The fate of the pack house was a different story. The air crackled with urgency as the elders performed their rituals, ancient words, and incantations mingling with the heavy tension in the atmosphere. Their voices carried the weight of generations, their gestures resonating with a power that reached deep into the core of our pack. But though the flower was destroyed, a sense of darkness still lingered.

Elders worked tirelessly attempting to cleanse the pack house of its malevolent taint. It was a struggle, a relentless battle against a force that refused to be banished. The chants and prayers seemed to echo in the air, their potency battling against the lingering malevolence.

Despite their valiant efforts, it became clear that the after-effects of the enchanted flower lingered on. The elders' frustration was palpable; their brows furrowed as they faced an adversary that defied their expertise.

And so, a decision was reached, which felt like a reluctant surrender. The pack house, once a bastion of unity and camaraderie, was now tainted beyond repair. The very walls seemed to whisper of the venom that had taken hold. With heavy hearts, we watched as the flames engulfed what remained of the place that had once been our sanctuary.

Fire was the only way to break the curse.

The fire roared with fierce determination, its crackling flames a testament to the destruction and renewal that it brought. Embers danced in the night, like fading memories of the shared moments within those walls. As I watched the fire consume the building, a mixture of sorrow and melancholy grew within me.

Smoke billowed into the night sky, carrying with it the echoes of history. It was a solemn farewell, a release of the past, and a promise of a new beginning. Amid the destruction, a sense of unity emerged. Pack members gathered, their faces illuminated by the fire's glow, their eyes reflecting a shared resolve. The pack house might be gone, but spirits endured.

With the dawn's light, the fire began to fade, its embers turning to ashes. And as the last flicker of flame died out, I felt a strange mix of emotions—sadness for what was lost but a glimmer of hope for what could be.

Elijah's body underwent a purification ritual, and the darkness that possessed him was carefully erased. Elders worked hard to ensure that no trace of the evil energy remained to taint the earth. With reverence, he was laid to rest beside his father, a final reunion in the realm of spirits.

Lois's grief was unimaginable, a heavy cloud that hung over her. Her tears fell freely, a river of sorrow that no one could understand. She had lost not just a mate but also her only pup – a double blow that struck at the very heart of her being. As we stood by her side, we offered our support. My mother and the Beta's wife stepped forward, but their comforting words did little to bandage Lois's wounded heart.

Just a day later, burdened by grief and the weight of leadership, Lois made a decision. With a heavy heart, she relinquished her role as Luna, the mantle of leadership passing to Beta Ed.

In the aftermath of the chaos, I found myself seeking solace in the familiarity of my parents' home. The walls held a sense of grounding, a reminder of the life I had known before everything turned upside down. I remained there for a week after the whole ordeal. The days passed in a blur of family conversations, shared meals, and the comfort of familiarity. Still, I longed for Cane. The emptiness of being separated from my mate caused a constant ache in my heart. My wolf mirrored my restlessness.

Days before

I observed from a distance, perched on the porch swing, a mug of hot chocolate warming my hands. The sounds of laughter and the rustling of autumn leaves filled the air as children once again played around, their carefree energy a stark contrast to the recent events that everyone had endured.

Cane and Ed engaged in conversation just a few feet away, their expressions animated as they discussed the plans for the new pack house. I couldn't help but smile as I watched them.

"Prince Cane, we can't thank you enough for everything you've done for this pack," Alpha Ed expressed his gratitude, a firm handshake sealing their conversation.

Cane's response was genuine, his eyes carrying a sense of hope. "It's been a privilege. I can only hope that it will be under happier circumstances the next time we meet."

Ed's playful laugh rippled through the air. "Perhaps at the royal wedding."

Cane's smile widened, a tinge of pink gracing his cheeks as he replied, "I shall drop an invitation personally."

With a nod, Ed excused himself, leaving Cane to approach me as he sat beside me; a warmth spread through me that had nothing to do with the hot chocolate.

"Are you planning to come back with me?" Cane's question caught me off guard, and I looked at him with surprise and affection. "Why wouldn't I?"

His response held a trace of consideration. "I thought you might want more time with your family."

My heart swelled at his thoughtfulness. Resting my head on his shoulder, I couldn't help but smile. "You're truly something, you know that?"

Cane chuckled softly. "What do you mean?"

"You're caring, considerate, and you care about my well-being," I confessed, feeling my cheeks warm.

He wrapped an arm around me, pulling me closer. "Well, obviously, you're my mate. That means you're stuck with me. I don't plan on letting you out of my sight."

I teased him with a playful grin. "Is that so?"

He nodded, his gaze sincere. "But I also understand that you've been through a lot. Castle life can be overwhelming, and I don't want to rush you into anything. You deserve some normalcy after everything you've been through."

I felt my heart swell, his words touching me deeply. "You're too kind, Prince Cane."

A mischievous glint lit up his eyes. "Why, thank you. I do try my best." I turned my head to meet his gaze, his eyes holding a depth of emotion that I could easily get lost in. The atmosphere around us shifted, becoming charged with an unspoken connection. He looked down at me, his expression a mixture of sincerity and tenderness.

Our eyes locked, and the world around us seemed to fade away at that moment. It was as if it was just the two of us, suspended in time. Without a second thought, I leaned in, drawn by an invisible force I couldn't resist.

Our lips met a soft and delicate connection that sent sparks all over my body. It was a moment that felt surreal and incredibly real, a culmination of the emotions swirling between us. The kiss was gentle as if we were both savoring the taste.

As our lips parted, there was a sense of wonderment in the air, like we had just embarked on a journey of discovery.

It was our first kiss.

I stayed behind for a week, sleeping in my old room, though most of my room was filled with cardboard boxes. After my banishment, my parents returned my things to the house, so nothing of mine was lost. On the second day of being home, I took the day to pack everything I would take to my new home.

Cane had assigned a warrior to watch over me during my journey. I didn't need protection, but it was for his peace of mind. Just in case, he said. I learned the warrior's name was Ryder, an older wolf with a perpetually stern countenance. He wore a stone-serious expression as his default.

While I was away from Cane, I couldn't escape the torment of the nightmares. The cruel memories of my captivity had begun to resurface in my sleep, engulfing me in a sinister dance of fear and pain. Night after night, I would awaken in a cold sweat, gasping for air, the echo of my screams still ringing in my ears. The walls of my childhood bedroom offered little solace as the visions of that dungeon haunted my mind. The darkness that had been my prison was now a prison of my mind, a place I couldn't escape, even in the comfort of my home.

And then there was Kat, a figure now appeared in my nightmares as a sinister presence. Her actions led to a chain of events that shattered the stability of my world. But the question still remained, why? She was an enigma, a puzzle piece I couldn't fit into the larger picture.

Amidst the chaos of my dreams, Cane and I's constant texting and calling brought a sense of reassurance. However, the impending return of his father and the growing responsibilities on his shoulders meant that our conversations were often becoming more brief and sporadic.

Emiline and Ashton's situation tugged at my heart even more. Emiline had to return to London to finish her semester. I could only imagine the ache they both must have felt, having to be apart for months.

Ashton's duty to his pack and his responsibilities as a royal beta tethered him to our land. However, he longed to be by Emiline's side. The promise I made to Ashton weighed heavily on my heart. Once back at the castle, I was determined to learn everything from him. If I could help him with his responsibilities, he could steal some time away to be with Emiline.

The days passed, and quickly came the day I'd return to the Royal pack. The night before, two warriors had come to gather my things to send to the royal pack. The day I was supposed to leave was a tearful day. I would miss my family dearly, but I couldn't bear to be away from Cane any longer. I found myself having a hard time eating and staying focused, and on top of already not sleeping, I was not in good shape.

My flight was scheduled for the early hours, just as the sky was beginning to blush with the first hints of sunrise. The house was quiet, wrapped in a serene pre-dawn hush, when my mother, a champion early riser, stirred in the kitchen to prepare a breakfast for me. She insisted that I eat something before embarking on my flight.

The night before had been a memorable farewell with the pack. Alpha, Ed, had orchestrated a grand feast welcoming every pack member. The atmosphere was filled with laughter and warmth, a fitting send-off for a member about to venture beyond the pack's territory.

Before leaving for the airport, I exchanged heartfelt goodbyes with my family. There were hugs, smiles, and even a few tears. The air was thick with emotions as I stepped into the waiting car driven by the warrior assigned to accompany me.

As we drove toward the airport, I couldn't help but notice that this route was much longer than the one we had taken before. My curiosity got the better of me, and I inquired about the change in our path. To my surprise, I was informed we were heading toward a private airspace departure.

The car's journey finally came to an end. Through the tinted windows, I saw a gleaming private jet waiting on the tarmac. Its polished exterior sparkled in the soft morning light, and the sight of it left me momentarily breathless.

With the car parked, the Ryder me opened the door, and I stepped onto the smooth tarmac. The jet's engines hummed softly, promising the adventure that awaited. My heart raced with a blend of anticipation and excitement as I walked toward the gleaming aircraft.

As I ascended the steps to the private jet, I couldn't help but marvel at the luxurious interior. Plush leather seats beckoned, and the cabin exuded an air of sophistication. It was a far cry from the usual commercial flights I was accustomed to.

Once on board, the flight attendants greeted me with a bow and warm smiles, making me feel like a princess. I settled into one of the plush seats by the window, my view encompassing the entire runway. Ryder settled into a seat across from me.

The pilot took a moment to introduce himself. He spoke calmly and confidently, instantly putting me at ease. He mentioned that he had been in the service of the Blackwood family for countless years.

My wolf was getting anxious and restless; she was excited to see our mate, and so was I. I took out my phone and sent a quick message to Cane, letting him know that we were preparing for takeoff. Moments later, my phone buzzed with a response.

Safe travels! See you when you get here, Cane's message read. It was a brief exchange, but it sent the butterflies in my stomach fluttering.

I leaned back in my seat, glancing out the window and up at the sky. The engines roared to life, and the jet began to taxi down the runway, gradually picking up speed.

As the plane ascended into the sky, leaving the world below behind.

The flight back to the royal pack's territory was relatively uneventful. Still, the anticipation of returning to the castle made it hard for me to relax. I tried to make the best of the time by catching up on some much-needed sleep, but my dreams had other plans.

The nightmares that had been plaguing me resurfaced during the flight. Each time I closed my eyes, I was thrust back into the darkness of that underground cell. The sensation of waking up in a cold sweat became familiar, and I frequently jolted awake my heart racing. The flight attendants must have noticed my restlessness, for they were kind enough to brew me a fresh cup of coffee, its warm aroma and comforting taste helping to chase away the lingering shadows of my dreams. I sipped the coffee slowly, grateful for the small comfort it provided.

With each passing mile, the anticipation grew. I knew that Cane was waiting for me.

"Ryder?" I ventured in a hushed tone, trying to catch the attention of the formidable warrior. He sat, unwavering and engrossed in a book. When my first attempt didn't succeed, I cleared my throat and called his name again, a tad louder, "Ryder?"

The warrior shifted his gaze from the pages of the book, and his piercing eyes met mine. "Yes, Miss North?" he responded, his voice carrying a steady, almost rhythmic quality.

A spark of curiosity overcame me, compelling me to initiate a conversation. Ryders' stern countenance didn't deter my efforts. He gently closed the book, placing it carefully on a nearby side table, signaling his willingness to engage in a dialogue. "How long have you been a warrior?" Ryder's stern expression softened slightly as he answered my question. His years of experience as a warrior were evident in how he carried himself, but a depth of kindness in his eyes put me at ease.

"Forty years." He proudly answered, "But for five years, I've had the honor of serving on the royal guard and one of the personal guards to King Charles. And now, I've been assigned to your service, ma'am."

"Me?" I asked, my surprise evident. "I thought Cane just asked you to look after me this week."

"No, ma'am," Ryder clarified, his tone resolute. "I had strict orders to return from the side of King Charles and serve as the personal guard to the future queen."

"Am I in danger?" I asked, a shiver of concern running down my spine.

"No, Miss, of course not," Ryder replied, his tone calm and reassuring. He leaned forward slightly, his eyes locked on mine as if to emphasize his words. "But it's a precaution," he continued, shifting his posture to sit more upright. "All royal family members are to have at least one royal guard with them at all times when outside pack territory."

I furrowed my brow, processing this information. "But when Cane and Ashton traveled with my sister and me," I began, gesturing slightly in emphasis, "there wasn't a guard with us."

Ryder nodded slowly, understanding the confusion in my voice. "That's because, since he was a young boy," he explained, his fingers tapping lightly on the armrest, "my nephew was trained as a guard for Prince Cane." A faint smile tugged at the corners of his lips as he spoke, a glint of pride shining in his eyes.

"Ashton?"

"Yes, ma'am," he continued, his expression softening, "Ashton is not only the beta of the Royal pack but also a trained guard."

"Wow, I had no idea," I exclaimed, my eyes widening in astonishment. "His fighting skills much be incredible," I whispered under my breath.

"I've seen your file. Your combat skills and proficiency are incredible, Miss North. But even the most skilled warriors need someone to watch their back. That's the essence of our duty as royal guards. It's not a reflection of your abilities; it's about ensuring your safety at all times," he explained, a faint hint of reassurance in his voice.

"Thank you."

The pilot's voice cut through the plane's speakers, instructing us to prepare for landing. I fastened my seatbelt, feeling the aircraft steadily descend.

The plane's engines powered down, and we were soon stepping off the private jet onto the tarmac. A brisk wind greeted us, ruffling my hair and making me grateful for the cozy sweater I had worn. Ryder, ever the vigilant guardian, escorted me down the steps.

Waiting nearby was a sleek black SUV, its windows tinted. Ryder held the door open, and I slid into the plush leather seat. He took the driver's seat, and with a nod, we set off on the journey to the castle.

The landscape outside the tinted windows changed rapidly, transitioning from the airport's surroundings to the serene beauty of the forest. Tall trees, dressed in rich autumn hues, reached for the sky. The road snaked through this natural cathedral, and I couldn't help but watch the passing scenery with fascination.

As we drove, Ryder's stoic demeanor remained unchanged. He occasionally glanced at me in the rearview mirror, his eyes reflecting a mix of watchfulness and curiosity. It was clear that he took his role seriously, and his presence offered me a measure of comfort.

I marveled at the forest's beauty, the dappled sunlight filtering through the leaves, and the occasional glimpse of wildlife. The forest seemed to breathe with life.

The anticipation of meeting Cane was bubbling within me.

As we continued our drive, my eyes caught a glimpse of a large sign that read "No Trespassing," nailed to a sturdy tree trunk. It was a stark contrast to the natural beauty surrounding us. Curiosity got the best of me, and I leaned forward slightly to catch Ryder's attention.

"Hey," I began, my voice barely above a whisper, "what's with the 'No Trespassing' sign?"

With his ever-stoic demeanor, Ryder responded with a chuckle, his eyes briefly meeting mine in the rearview mirror. "Oh, that old thing?" he said with a hint of amusement. "Don't worry, Miss North. It's just a precaution to keep humans away. But they don't venture this far into the woods. They never have." With a twinkle in his eye, he continued, "You know, there are stories about terrifying monsters out here—half human, half wolf, with glowing eyes and fearsome howls. But I assure you, they're just tales to keep the adventurous at bay."

His playful tone drew out a laugh from me.

As we drove deeper into the forest, following the winding road, tall trees leaned over the path, their branches forming a lush canopy that filtered the daylight into a soft, orange, and red glow. There was an undeniable enchantment in the air, as if the very woods themselves whispered secrets of centuries gone by.

Suddenly, we approached a stone bridge that arched gracefully over a small stream. The sight was breathtaking, a testament to the artistry of nature. The road led us right beneath it, and I couldn't help but crane my neck to catch every detail. Water trickled merrily beneath the bridge, and moss clung to the ancient stones, creating a picturesque scene.

As we passed beneath the bridge and deeper into the woods, Ryder maneuvered the SUV expertly. The trees grew denser, their branches interlocking like a protective fortress above us. Soon, we entered an underground garage, and my breath caught in my throat as we descended.

The underground garage was expansive, and the overhead lights buzzed to life, bathing the space in a soft, artificial glow. Ryder parked the SUV in an available space close to what I guessed was an elevator door. I felt a subtle vibration beneath us as the engine was turned off. He turned in his seat to look at me, his face illuminated by the soft light.

"This is the underground garage of the royal castle," he informed me. "The elevator to the castle itself is right over there."

It was then, at that moment, that a strange sense of déjà vu washed over me. My eyes darted around the garage, and a rush of memories flooded back—memories of a time when Cane, Ashton, Emiline, and I had left the pack together.

But back then, my mind had been clouded by fear, uncertainty, and the enormity of the unknown. I had been too overwhelmed to truly notice the surroundings. It was like seeing everything again for the very first time, through a different lens, with newfound clarity.

The familiarity of it all was comforting, like retracing steps from a long-forgotten dream as we made our way to the elevator that would take us up to the castle.

As the elevator doors slowly slid open, my heart raced with anticipation. I had expected, perhaps foolishly, to see Cane waiting for me on the other side. His warm smile, his comforting presence. But as the doors opened fully, revealing an empty corridor, my heart sank.

No one was there.

A pang of sadness and disappointment washed over me like a sudden storm cloud obscuring the sun. I had hoped to see him, to feel his arms around me, to hear his voice whispering sweetly in my ear. But he wasn't there.

My wolf let out a sad whine.

I stepped out of the elevator slowly, my footsteps echoing in the quiet corridor. The castle seemed vast and unfamiliar without Cane by my side.

"Miss North," Ryder spoke up, breaking the silence that had settled between us. "All your bags have been taken to your and Prince Cane's bedroom. Would you like me to show you the way?"

I considered his offer for a moment, the idea of getting some rest after the long flight tempting. But a slight dizziness that had crept over me during the drive from the airport.

"Thank you, Ryder," I replied with a small smile. "But I think I'd like to go to the kitchen first. I'm feeling a bit dizzy, and I could use something to eat."

Ryder nodded in understanding. "Of course, Miss. Right this way."

As we walked through the castle's grand corridors, I couldn't help but admire the opulent interior. Massive chandeliers hung from the ceilings, casting a warm and inviting glow. Intricately carved furniture adorned the halls, and the walls were adorned with portraits and paintings.

As we continued our journey through the castle, Ryder eventually led me to a pair of towering French doors. He swung one of the doors open with a polite nod, revealing a beyond-impressive kitchen. My eyes widened in amazement as I stepped inside.

The vast kitchen was equipped with gleaming stainless steel appliances that looked like they belonged in a 5-star restaurant. A massive walk-in fridge and freezer occupied one corner of the room, their size dwarfing anything I'd seen before. Two long islands stood in the center, each with its own sink and surrounded by bar stools.

My awe couldn't be contained, and I whispered to myself, "This kitchen is bigger than my parents' home."

Just as I was about to explore further, I noticed someone sitting at one of the bar stools, casually making a sandwich. It was Ashton, his familiar face breaking into a grin as he saw me. "Hey, Bianca, long time no see."

I couldn't help but return his smile. "Ashton!"

Ryder, always ready with a quip, chimed in. "Ah, Ashton, always eating."

Ashton shrugged, taking a bite of his sandwich. "What can I say? It's a wolf thing."

I chuckled. Ryder rolled his eyes at Ashton. "I guess I shall leave you to enjoy a meal, Miss. North."

"Please, Bianca is just fine."

Ryder gave a polite nod. "Very well, Bianca. If you need anything, don't hesitate to ask. I'll be nearby."

With that, he made his exit, leaving me alone with Ashton.

Ashton rolled his eyes with a mischievous grin while preparing his sandwich. "Do you want a sandwich?" He asked. I nodded, "Please."

Ashton prepared the sandwich, his movements confident and efficient. While he worked, I couldn't help but drift into my own thoughts of Cane.

Somewhere amid my reverie, Ashton had tried to strike up a conversation. His initial inquiries about the flight went unnoticed, drowned out by the thoughts of my mate. Only when he called my name louder, jolting me from my thoughts, did I realize I'd been completely lost in my own world.

Embarrassment flushed my cheeks, and I stammered an apology, "Sorry, Ashton. I...I was lost in my thoughts."

Ashton chuckled warmly, his understanding gaze making me feel less foolish. "It's okay, Bianca," he said, his tone soothing. "I miss my mate too." He paused, "Don't worry too much about Cane," he reassured me. "He's just a bit on edge because his father's back. They've been locked in the office since this morning, hence the lack of a grand greeting from your prince charming." Ashton's tone held a note of humor, making light of the situation.

"King Charles is already back from Europe?" I inquired.

"Yeah, the jet arrived last night and was sent to pick you up," Ashton confirmed. He Put my sandwich on a plate and slid it over to me before eating his own.

"It's a relief to have the private jet here again. I can't stand those commercial flights," he added with a snort, relishing the convenience.

"Oh, you guys only one private jet?" I mockingly whined, bringing my closed fists to my eyes in a playful gesture mimicking a child wiping away imaginary tears.

Ashton chuckled, his eyes dancing with amusement. "You saw what happened," he began, his voice laced with mock exasperation. "That one woman practically tried to assault me with her... uh, assets," he said, using a cheeky euphemism, and we both burst into laughter.

Ashton and I sat on the island in the expansive kitchen, enjoying our sandwiches in comfortable silence.

After a few bites, Ashton broke the silence; his voice filled with a mix of understanding and concern. "Just food for thought, but Cane gets on edge around his dad. It's not because he doesn't love him; it's quite the opposite. He admires Charles tremendously and always tries so hard not to disappoint him. He's afraid of messing up, you know?"

I frowned slightly, trying to grasp the complexities of Cane's relationship with his father. "But why would he feel like that?"

Ashton gave a knowing smile, his eyes reflecting wisdom beyond his years. "I think it's an innate desire to make his father proud, to live up to his expectations. I think many of us here share that feeling. We want to be strong like our parents and carry on their legacy."

His words struck a chord with me. I thought about my father and how I'd always strived to make him proud. It wasn't so different from what Cane felt, I realized.

Ashton's voice interrupted my thoughts. "By the way, Bianca, if Cane seems a bit distant." Ashton paused and looked around, careful to make sure no one was listening, and in a hushed tone, continued, "I overheard a conversation between him and his father. Cane will have to oversee his trial of the man who held you captive."

Shock washed over me, and I could feel my heart race. The man who had tormented me, the monster responsible for my nightmares, was finally apprehended. But the realization that he was so close, in the castle's dungeons, sent a shiver down my spine.

"You mean he's here, in the castle?" I asked, my voice trembling.

Ashton nodded calmly. "Yes, he is in the dungeon."

Fear gnawed at my insides as I processed the information. The man. No, that monster was under the same roof as me. The thought filled me with dread, and I couldn't help but glance nervously around the kitchen as if expecting him to appear at any moment. My breaths came in rapid, shallow gasps, and I clutched the edge of the kitchen island for support, feeling utterly overwhelmed by the sudden flood of fear and panic. Sensing my distress, Ashton reached out and gently placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder.

"Bianca, it's okay," he said, his voice calm and soothing. "You're safe here. The dungeons are heavily guarded; he won't hurt you or anyone else."

But his words barely registered as the memories of that dark, dank cell flooded my mind. The faces of my tormentors, their cruel laughter, and the feeling of helplessness washed over me like a tidal wave.

Ashton's voice became a distant echo, and my vision blurred as tears welled up. The kitchen seemed to spin around me, and I felt like I was drowning in my fear.

Hello! Back to back updates I'm so proud of myself! Hope you are all enjoying the story and the longer chapters!

Stay tuned for the Next update

xoxo -Isa