- 4 hours ago
[#short film] Too Late, She Married Another Alpha(updating)
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Short filmTranscript
00:00I woke up back on the day I begged my father to let me marry him.
00:03I chose someone else instead.
00:06My first mating ceremony with Vincent.
00:09I learned the true weight of hatred.
00:11Before the silver moon god, Princess Lydia and Beta Vincent
00:16shall mark one another, bite the neck, and seal your bond as mates.
00:21Till death do you part.
00:24My heart pounded so hard I could hear it in my ears.
00:26I stepped forward, my legs barely supporting me, and leaned toward Vincent's neck.
00:31A silver moon mark appeared on his wrist, the first sign that the bond was forming,
00:35that the goddess had blessed our union.
00:36Vincent lowered his head as if to return the gesture, but he did not bite me,
00:41and then he whispered,
00:42You forced Jade to marry the alpha of the snow wolf pack,
00:45and now you're forcing me to mate with you.
00:48I hate you, Lydia. I will never love you.
00:51I froze. The hopeful smile on my face slowly disappeared,
00:54replaced by shock and heartbreak so profound I thought I might shatter into pieces right there
00:58on the altar. Vincent straightened.
01:01The silver moon mark on his wrist, the mark that should have bound us together for eternity,
01:05shattered into fragments of light and faded away.
01:07Without another word, he turned and walked away from the altar.
01:11Vincent! Come back!
01:13I called after him, my voice breaking, but he didn't turn around.
01:17He didn't even slow down.
01:19I stood there in my beautiful silver gray gown, surrounded by hundreds of staring eyes,
01:22and felt my world collapse.
01:24Vincent loved my stepsister.
01:26He always had, and I was just the woman standing in their way.
01:30That night, while I stood humiliated at my own mating ceremony,
01:33my stepsister Jade met a far worse fate.
01:36In the snow wolf territory, far from our forest,
01:38Jade lay pinned to a glowing blood-red magic circle.
01:41Several snow wolves clamped their jaws onto her arms and legs,
01:44holding her down as she struggled in agony.
01:46Blood poured from her wounds as the ritual began.
01:48The magic circle erupted with blinding crimson light.
01:51Around her, the snow wolf clan stood in human form.
01:55A silver moon crest appeared on each of their foreheads,
01:57then shattered into glowing fragments and disappeared.
01:59The curse that bound them, the curse my ancestors had placed on them centuries ago,
02:03had been lifted.
02:05The snow wolves burst into tears of relief and joy,
02:07but their expression soon turned cold as they looked down at Jade trembling on the ground.
02:11One by one, they transformed into wolves and descended upon her.
02:15Jade's screams echoed through the night as the pack tore her apart.
02:18The snow wolves killed Jade on her arrival.
02:20They drained her blood to cure their curse.
02:22Then they devoured her until nothing remained.
02:25For eight years after that night,
02:27hatred was all there was between Vincent and me.
02:29We fought constantly.
02:30We clashed in pack meaning, in training, in every aspect of our lives.
02:35Two wolves colliding in a violent fight over and over again,
02:37me the silver gray, him the dark brown.
02:40We fought and slammed into each other with savage force
02:42until one of us finally pinned the other.
02:44Usually, it was him.
02:45I would shift back into human form and press my hand against whatever wound I'd earned in the latest battle,
02:50watching him disappear into the distance with tears fell in my eyes.
02:53Eight years of hatred.
02:54Eight years of loving someone who would never love me back.
02:57When the war with the snow wolves finally began, Vincent swore to avenge Jade.
03:01But the snow wolves were too strong, and soon the forest was filled with the corpses of our kin.
03:05I was in human form, covered in wounds and surrounded by snow wolves closing in for the kill.
03:09I had accepted my fate.
03:11After eight years of misery, death almost seemed like a relief.
03:14Suddenly, a brown wolf burst through the pack.
03:17It was Vincent.
03:18He threw me onto his back and raced through the forest as the snow wolves pursued us.
03:22I clung to his fur, too weak and shocked to do anything else.
03:25Vincent reached the ancient altar, the same altar where we had almost become mates eight years ago,
03:29and shifted into human form.
03:31I slid down from his back, struggling to stand.
03:33Without hesitation, Vincent drew a blade and cut open his own chest.
03:37Blood poured down his body.
03:39I stared at him in shock.
03:41Vincent, what are you doing?
03:42Drops of his blood fell onto the altar, and a crimson magic circle appeared beneath my feet.
03:47A transparent barrier rose around me, sealing me inside.
03:50I rushed forward and pounded against the barrier, but it would not break.
03:54I'm teleporting you out with my life.
03:56Consider it repayment for the years you loved me.
03:59But if there is a next life, leave me be with Jaded.
04:06I screamed, but the snow wolves had arrived at the altar.
04:09Vincent turned to face them alone.
04:11The wolves leaped onto him and tore into his body.
04:14Claws ripped through flesh and blood splashed across the stone altar.
04:18I slammed my fists against the barrier as my body slowly began to fade.
04:22Vincent, I never imagined you would die to save me.
04:25If there truly is another life, I will never chase after you again.
04:29My body dissolved into light and disappeared within the magic circle.
04:32A single tear mixed with blood fell onto the altar.
04:35The crimson circle suddenly turned gold, erupting with a brilliant light that flooded the forest.
04:39I opened my eyes.
04:41I was standing in the middle of the Silvermoon Palace.
04:43My father was looking down at me, sullen and mighty.
04:46And Jade, Jade, who should have been dead for eight years, gazed at me with hatred.
04:50Wait, I thought, my mind reeling.
04:53I'm actually back to the day when I begged father to make Vincent my mate.
04:57Lydia, my father said, his voice heavy with authority.
05:00The snow wolves demand a daughter of mine to mate with their alpha and lift the curse for them.
05:05If we say no, there will be a war we can't win.
05:09Are you still sure you are turning down the offer to marry Vincent?
05:13I stared at him, my heart pounding.
05:15This is it.
05:16This is the moment everything changes.
05:18In my previous life, I had insisted on marrying Vincent.
05:21I had manipulated and begged and cried until my father gave in.
05:25And what had it gotten me?
05:27Eight years of hatred.
05:28Eight years of misery.
05:29And Vincent dying to save me, only because he felt obligated.
05:33No more.
05:34Father, I've changed my mind.
05:37I will fulfill my duty and marry the snow wolf alpha.
05:41Stop, staring at me in disbelief.
05:43Haven't you always wanted to marry Vincent?
05:46What changed your mind?
05:47What are you planning?
05:48I met her gaze without flinching.
05:50I'm not planning anything.
05:52But I do have one condition.
05:54My father's eyes narrowed with suspicion.
05:56What condition?
05:58Keep it secret till the day of the mating ceremony.
06:01A flicker of excitement crossed Jade's face.
06:03Sure.
06:04I have no problem with that.
06:06Consider it my repayment for Vincent saving my life in our last life, I thought.
06:10It will also be the final chapter between us and this one.
06:13My father sighed.
06:14Very well.
06:15In five days, the two of you will hold their mating ceremonies with your destined partners.
06:21I will have the preparations arranged.
06:24I lowered my gaze with a bitter smile.
06:27Destined partners?
06:28My father has never cared about my happiness.
06:31Between Jade and me, he has always favored the daughter my stepmother gave him.
06:35The palace doors opened and I stepped outside.
06:37The first thing I saw was Vincent kneeling in the pouring rain, his back straight and unmoving.
06:41It's him.
06:42Just like before.
06:44Even in this life, he was here begging for Jade on his knees.
06:47In my previous life, I had reacted with fear.
06:49I had ordered him taken away.
06:51Had watched him struggle and scream as the attendants dragged him off.
06:54No!
06:55Let me go!
06:57I had made everything worse.
06:59This time would be different.
07:01I walked toward Vincent with an umbrella, the rain pounding heavily around us.
07:04He looked up at me, frowning slightly, then quickly looked away.
07:08Why are you here?
07:09Vincent, have you ever thought about something?
07:13If Jade doesn't go, then the one who must go is me.
07:17His expression remained cold.
07:19As long as you don't interfere, I can lead the army and conquer the snow wolf pack myself.
07:25Then neither of you will have to marry that brute.
07:29I let out a soft, almost amused laugh.
07:32He still doesn't understand.
07:33The snow wolves are too strong.
07:35In my previous life, they nearly destroyed us.
07:38Then I wish you will get what you wish for.
07:41Instead of me when the veil is lifted, he will be so happy.
07:44Vincent, you saved my life and our last life.
07:47In this one, I've repaid that debt.
07:49We are clear.
07:50Behind me, I could feel this surprised stare on my retreating figure.
07:53She used to always make a scene for this.
07:56He was probably thinking,
07:57Why is she so calm today?
07:59Let him wonder.
08:00It didn't matter anymore.
08:01Night fell, and I sat on my bed preparing to sleep.
08:05The events of the day had exhausted me emotionally, even if my body wasn't tired.
08:09Being back in this time, seeing Vincent so young and full of hatred for me, it was harder than I
08:13had expected.
08:15Suddenly, loud and chaotic pounding erupted at my door.
08:18I frowned and walked over to open it.
08:20The moment the door opened, Vincent shoved me back against it.
08:23His eyes glowed red and the heavy smell of alcohol clung to him.
08:26Lydia, why did you have to send Jade to the snow wolf pack?
08:31You, you let the alpha to your order!
08:34You manipulated the alpha to give the order!
08:37Vincent, let go!
08:38You're hurting me!
08:40The snow wolf pack has a blood feud with us.
08:44They have suffered under the curse from our ancestors for centuries.
08:48What do you think they will do to Jade once the curses lift?
08:52Is that what you want?
08:53You want your sister dead?
08:55He tightened his grip on my shoulders, his fingers digging into my flesh.
08:59A jealous, vicious woman like you doesn't deserve anyone's love!
09:03Do you really think forcing me to mate with you will make me submert?
09:09Dream on!
09:10I froze, my eyes reddening as I stared at him in disbelief.
09:13That look of hatred on his face.
09:15It's exactly the same as the day we turned our swords against each other in our last life.
09:19A bitter smile crossed my lips.
09:21I lifted my hand and released a burst of magic.
09:24Vincent was thrown several meters away, crashing to the ground before barely managing to kneel.
09:29Blood dripped from the corner of his mouth.
09:31Vincent, don't forget your place.
09:34He wiped the blood from his lips with his knuckle and looked up at me in stunned silence.
09:39I turned to go back inside.
09:41His hand shot out and grabbed my wrist.
09:43Let me take you to the witch doctor.
09:45She can treat your injury.
09:46I glanced back.
09:48His concern appeared genuine.
09:50Genuine concern?
09:51Or guilt?
09:52Memories flooded my mind unbidden.
09:54I was young, kneeling among a field of bright flowers, picking a red blossom.
09:58The pollen suddenly corroded my skin.
10:01The flesh on my palm and legs began to blister and bleed.
10:03I burst into tears.
10:05Young Vincent ran toward me as fast as he could.
10:07Lydia, don't be afraid!
10:09He rushed through the poisonous flowers and lifted me onto his back, carrying me out of
10:13the field.
10:14His own skin was burned and bleeding from the corrosion.
10:16I watched him with tearful gratitude.
10:18Then another memory, young Vincent and I were suddenly attacked by a horned beast in the
10:22forest.
10:23Vincent stepped in front of me to shield me.
10:25The creature slammed into him, sending him crashing to the ground as he caught up blood.
10:29Vincent!
10:30Other brown wolves rushed in and drove the beast away.
10:33I knelt beside Vincent, crying as I held him.
10:36He gently wiped away my tears.
10:39As long as you're safe.
10:43After my mother died, Vincent always looked after me.
10:46He always protected me, even risking his own life.
10:49I fell for him and thought he was my savior.
10:52But then Jade appeared.
10:53Jade and I trained with several young pack members under the guidance of the pack witch.
10:57Jade suddenly smirked and secretly cast a spell toward me.
11:05I was struck and immediately retaliated in anger.
11:10Vincent rushed over.
11:12Jade, are you alright?
11:14Vanessa, she's faking it!
11:16She attacked me first!
11:18If you ever hurt Jade again, I will never forgive you.
11:21I watched in heartbreak as Vincent carried her away.
11:24Jade looked back over his shoulder, smiling mockingly at me.
11:27After Jade appeared, I finally understood.
11:30Everything Vincent had done for me was only repayment for the kindness my mother once showed him.
11:34I mistook it for love and clumped to that illusion for an entire lifetime.
11:38I looked at Vincent for a long moment.
11:40It's time to let go.
11:42There's no need.
11:44He stared at me in surprise.
11:46She has never looked at me like this before.
11:48Why does it feel like she's become a completely different person today?
11:51Just then, Jade appeared.
11:53Vincent!
11:53The moment he saw her, his expression softened.
11:56Vincent!
11:57What about the wolf fang charms you promised to make for me?
12:00He took a small cloth patch from his coat and opened it.
12:04Right here.
12:04Revealing many golden wolf fang charms of different shapes.
12:07Jade's eyes widened with amazement.
12:11Vincent, you're incredible!
12:13Well, you must have made these for lots of people, right?
12:16No.
12:17I only make them for people I care about.
12:20Vincent lowered his head as he took out one charm and fastened it around Jade's neck.
12:24My eyes locked onto the wolf fang charm.
12:26My chest rose and fell sharply as a ringing sound filled my ears.
12:29A large, round stone beside a silver wolf statue deep in the forest.
12:34Suspended in the air before her was a wolf fang engraved with runes.
12:38With her eyes closed, she chanted softly, weaving magic into the fang.
12:43Young Vincent and I stood nearby, watching curiously.
12:47My mother smiled and placed the wolf hand charm into my little hands.
12:52I clapped happily and laughed.
12:54A white coffin rested in the forest.
12:56My mother lay inside.
12:57I knelt on the ground beside it, crying uncontrollably.
13:00Standing next to me, young Vincent gently pressed a wolf fang charm into my hand.
13:04His own hands were covered in fresh wounds.
13:06It was my mother who taught Vincent the spell to enchant the charm.
13:09She used to make many charms to protect me.
13:11After her death, Vincent took her place.
13:13Vincent carefully dripped his blood onto a wolf fang, preparing another charm.
13:17Suddenly, I rushed in and snatched it from his hands.
13:20I clenched my fist tightly, and the wolf fang crumbled into glittering particles of light.
13:24You are not making charms for her!
13:26That's enough.
13:27How long are you going to keep bullying Jade?
13:29Vincent stared at me with open disgust.
13:31He turned and walked away without another word.
13:33I stood frozen as tears welled in my eyes.
13:35This in it? Have you forgotten?
13:37My mother died because of Jade's mother.
13:39In the present, Jade glanced deliberately toward me with a provocative smile.
13:44Jade doesn't even like those show chairs' charms.
13:47This is just her way to provoke me.
13:50My hands clenched into fists.
13:53I turned and shut the door behind me.
13:55At the same moment I turned away, Vincent looked up.
13:58Why did Lydia leave?
14:00Is she mad at me?
14:02Vincent watched my back for a long moment, deep in thought.
14:05Vincent, you despise me so much.
14:07Don't worry.
14:08In three days, you and I will never have to see each other again for good.
14:12In the present palace hall, nobles dressed in luxurious attire mingled and danced beneath glittering chandeliers.
14:18At the center of the crowd, Jade stood with red-hidden eyes, crying softly as several guests gathered around her
14:25in sympathy.
14:26After tonight's farewell a banquet, you'll be sent to marry our enemy, the brutal snow wolf king.
14:31And as your sister, all Lydia cares about is her marriage with Vincent?
14:35She's even forcing him to mate with her.
14:37She's ridiculous.
14:39Jade, we'll miss you so much.
14:41I am a princess of the Silver Moon Pack.
14:43The pack must come before my personal feelings.
14:45If the marriage can put a stop to the bloodshed between us, then it shall be done.
14:49You've got such a big heart.
14:50How can Lydia miss out on your farewell party?
14:52This is outrageous.
14:53Maybe she doesn't deserve to be the princess of Silver Moon Pack after all.
14:57Talking behind my back, I entered the hall dressed in an elegant gown, my presence sharp and commanding.
15:03I walked straight through the crowd until I stood before Jade and the gossing nobles.
15:08Who are you to judge me?
15:10I drained the wine in my glass in one motion and turned, leaving the banquet alone.
15:16Near the silver wolf statue in the garden, I paused beside it, trying to clear the alcohol from my head.
15:21Sister, I know you decided to take my place and go to the Snow Wolf Pack instead, but that was
15:26your own choice.
15:27I never forced you.
15:28Behind me, Vincent quietly appeared, watching from a distance.
15:32Jade noticed him.
15:32A cold smile briefly curled at the corner of her lips.
15:35She placed a hand over her chest.
15:37Because I stood between them, Vincent could not see what Jade was doing.
15:40She secretly cast a spell.
15:41Suddenly my arm moved against my will as if guided by an invisible hand.
15:44A bolt of lightning magic struck toward Jade.
15:47Vinistit reacted instantly.
15:48He cast a spell that slammed into me.
15:51Vincent rushed forward and pulled Jade protectively into his arms.
15:55He glared furiously at me.
15:56Enough!
15:57It was...
15:57His teeth browned together with anger.
15:59I thought you were only a bit childish.
16:02But this is too much.
16:03You are pure evil.
16:05You almost killed Jade.
16:06And for what?
16:08If your mother were still alive, she would be utterly ashamed to see what you've become.
16:13Vincent.
16:13My hand lifted as magic gathered in my palm.
16:18Vinistit raised his hand as well.
16:20We faced each other in open confrontation while the surrounding guests stared in shock.
16:26In our previous life, during the eight years after we didn't marry, we argued over Jade countless times.
16:31But we never truly tried to hurt each other.
16:33I raised my hand higher.
16:35But this time, golden light burst from my palm and shot toward Vincent.
16:38His eyes widened in shock.
16:40Around us, the crowd gasped in disbelief.
16:42The golden light in my hand flickered and dissolved just inches before reaching Vincent.
16:46My legs gave out beneath me.
16:48My legs gave out beneath me.
16:49I fell forward, but landed in a firm pair of arms.
16:53Lydia, what's wrong with you?
16:55For a brief moment, panic flashed across his face.
16:59With the last of my strength, I grabbed his collar and clenched it tightly.
17:02You have no right to speak about my mother.
17:09Lydia.
17:10Lydia.
17:12Vincent, I...
17:13Vincent did not stop.
17:15His attention remained entirely on me as he strode away, leaving Jade behind.
17:19Jade's expression darkened instantly.
17:21Lydia.
17:23You're already going to marry our enemy and walk to your own death, yet you're still trying to heal Vincent
17:27from me.
17:29The next thing I knew, I was lying weakly on my bed.
17:33Barely conscious as the witch doctor finished casting a healing spell and quietly left the room.
17:37I slowly opened my eyes.
17:39The first thing I saw was Vincent standing beside the bed, waiting with visible guilt in his expression.
17:44In our previous life, Vincent never came to see me on his own.
17:48Even when I was gravely ill, he only sent someone to summon a healer.
17:52He avoided me as if I were a plague.
17:54Why are you here?
17:55I'm sorry.
17:58There's no need for apologies between us anymore.
18:01Leith.
18:02I closed my eyes.
18:03Behind me, a sharp sound suddenly echoed through the room.
18:06Vincent had slapped himself hard across the face.
18:09Moments later, the sound of his footsteps faded.
18:12The door opened, then closed.
18:14Only then did I fully open my eyes again.
18:16Vincent, you will be free very soon.
18:19In just a few days, you will finally marry the woman you have loved through both lifetimes.
18:24After that, you will never have to see me again.
18:26And I will never have to suffer for you anymore.
18:29Moonlight outlined Vincent's tall figure standing outside my door.
18:33He remained there, motionless, for two days and nights.
18:38Inside my room, I opened a silver jewel box encrusted with diamonds.
18:43Inside rested a wolf hand charm, the one Vincent had made for me long ago, before Jade, before everything changed.
18:50Through the window, I glanced toward Vincent, standing outside.
18:54Since that night, Vincent has stood outside my door for two days and nights, but I haven't let him in.
19:00Lydia, I will marry you.
19:03I will spend the rest of my life making up for what I did to hurt you.
19:07I swear it in the name of the goddess of the moon.
19:09I raised my hand and quietly cast a spell.
19:13Inside the room, the lights dimmed instantly.
19:16Vincent waited outside for a moment longer.
19:18Then, realizing I would not answer him, he finally turned and walked away.
19:23I heard his footsteps fade.
19:25A single tear slipped down from the corner of my eye.
19:28He has no idea.
19:28Tomorrow, I will take my sister's place and marry the snow wolf, Alpha.
19:32I will mate with our enemy, with little chance to survive.
19:36The woman he will marry is Jade.
19:38Deep within the silver moon-packed forest, white roses bloomed everywhere on the day of the mating ceremonies.
19:43The ceremonial grounds were lavishly decorated, and a crowd gathered around the central altar.
19:48As that's Kantrish and Iva Stalans of Weisingun Asendiong.
19:51At the boundary where the forest met the snow fields, I stood alone.
19:54I turned back to look at the dense forest behind me, my eyes filled with quiet reluctance.
20:00By now, Vincent has probably received the surprise I left for him.
20:04Vincent, what I owed you from our last life has been repaid.
20:07A pack of snow-white wolves emerged from the snowy plain and approached me, their eyes fierce.
20:12You longer belong to the forest.
20:15Come with us.
20:17I turned back calmly and walked toward them.
20:21With lifted a veil over my face, then climbed onto the back of one of the wolves.
20:25In the distance, a brown wolf burst from the forest, racing toward us at full speed.
20:30The wolf skidded to a halt before the snow wolves but was quickly surrounded.
20:34With no other choice, it shifted into human form.
20:37It was Vincent.
20:38I turned and saw his face.
20:40Shock flooded my expression.
20:42Vincent, what is he doing here?
20:44Moonlight.
20:44I sat atop a snow wolf.
20:46My face thinned beneath the veil.
20:47Isn't he supposed to be at the altar with Jade, preparing for the mating ceremony?
20:52What is he doing here?
20:53Vincent spotted me and immediately rushed forward.
20:56The snow wolf beside me surged ahead as one, walking his path and snarling fiercely.
21:00Vincent Armand, one more step, and the snow wolf army will charge into your land and tear your clan apart.
21:09Vincent gritted his peace and stopped, but his eyes remained fixed on me, filled with reluctance and aching affection.
21:15Let me escort you.
21:17I remained silent.
21:19Are you mad at me for marrying your sister?
21:22I froze slightly.
21:23So he thinks I'm Jade, and he got here early for her.
21:27Guess the big surprise hasn't reached him yet.
21:30But this is a debt I owe her.
21:32I owe it to her mother.
21:34I had no other choice.
21:35Jade, forgive me, please.
21:38Beneath my veil toll like her veil, I let out a bitter smile.
21:41I'm sorry I couldn't stop this marriage.
21:45But one day, I will lead an army, crush the snow wolf pack, and bring you back safe and unharmed.
21:53Believe me, Vincent Armand, back away now, or your life ends here.
22:00Take me.
22:01The snow wolf snarled again and forced Vincent backward before turning as one.
22:05They sprinted across the snow field and disappeared into the distance.
22:09Behind us, Vincent chased a few desperate steps before stopping.
22:13Jade aid!
22:15I backed toward the forest in a daze, each step feeling heavy.
22:18If I had tried just a little harder, maybe Jade wouldn't have had to go.
22:22He was probably thinking, she must hate me for this.
22:25But there's nothing I could do.
22:27He returned to the ceremonial altar deep within the forest.
22:30The gathered guests were visibly exhausted from waiting.
22:33When they saw Vincent return, many of them let out quiet sighs of relief.
22:37Vincent, your behavior is outrageous.
22:40You kept all these people waiting and left my daughter standing here humiliated.
22:43Is this a message to my house?
22:47Vincent knelt halfway in a formal salute, accepting the reprimand without protest.
22:51Jade quickly reached for my father's arm and gently shook her head at him, coaxing.
22:57Forget it.
22:58Let's begin.
22:59Vincent took a deep breath and slowly walked up onto the altar.
23:02He stopped in front of Jade.
23:04Regret filled his face.
23:05The witch raised her staff and chanted an incantation.
23:09The moon god be our witness.
23:11Princess Jade and Beta Vincent shall mark one another with the bite of a mate bond.
23:17From this moment on, your souls are bound.
23:21Till death do you part.
23:24Under my father's stern gaze and the expectant eyes of the guests, Jade stepped closer to
23:28Vincent.
23:28Vincent closed his eyes and tilted his head slightly, fists clenched tightly.
23:32This is it.
23:34Jade and I will finally become destined mates.
23:36Jade removed her veil and bit down on Vincent's neck.
23:39That instant, a silver moon mark appeared on Vincent's wrist.
23:42Jade tilted her head, watching him with anticipation.
23:45Vincent opened his eyes and lowered his head to look at her.
23:48The moment he saw her face, he froze.
23:51Shock flooded his expression.
23:52What?
23:53Jade?
23:54Vincent stared at Jade in disbelief.
23:56Why is it you?
23:58Jade avoided his gaze, her expression shy and hesitant.
24:02I don't know why either.
24:04Yesterday, my sister, she was said you willing to go to the snow wolf pack, so...
24:08Vincent's eyes widened.
24:09What did you say?
24:10The one marrying into the snow wolf pack is Lydia?
24:13He suddenly grabbed Jade by the shoulder, his hands trembling.
24:16And that woman.
24:17The one taken away by the snow wolves alone.
24:20I'm sorry I couldn't stop you from marrying our enemy.
24:24But listen, one day I will lead an army, crush those snow wolves and make them beg for life beneath
24:28our feet.
24:30I will bring you back.
24:32Safe and sound.
24:34Trust me.
24:35Behind the veil, she gave a bitter smile.
24:39Time to go.
24:41The snow wolf snarled and forced him back before turning as one and sprinting away.
24:45He chased after them a few desperate steps.
24:47Jade!
24:50Vincent suddenly bolted from the altar platform.
24:53Mid-tride, he transformed into a wolf and sprinted toward the snowfields at full speed.
24:58Vincent!
24:59Where are you going?
25:00But he was already gone, his voice echoing with anguish and regret.
25:04...and packed snow, cold and gleaming beneath pale light.
25:07I walked slowly into the grand hall.
25:09Every snow wolf present stared at me with undisguised hatred.
25:12Low murmurs rippled through the crowd.
25:14At the far end of the hall sat the ice throne.
25:16Upon it lounged Damien race, white hair, loose curls, and a white cloak draped across his shoulders.
25:22His gaze rested on me as though he were looking at a corpse.
25:25I opened my mouth to speak.
25:27But Damien attacked.
25:28I instantly sensed the killing intent.
25:30My eyes sharpened, with a flash of magic.
25:33A long sword appeared in my hand, just in time to block the wolf claws of Damien, who lunged at
25:37me in his wolf form.
25:38In the blink of an eye, we exchanged several rapid strikes.
25:42Damien shifted back into human form.
25:44The earlier contempt in his eyes faded slightly, replaced by a flicker of interest.
25:48Then he vanished.
25:49A heartbeat later he reappeared behind me, gripping my throat in a crushing hold.
25:53His chest pressed against my back as he restrained me.
25:56I struggled to breathe.
25:58You can't kill me!
25:59Your people have suffered under the Silver Moon curse for generations.
26:03If you don't form a mate bond with me, none of you will live past 25.
26:08Damien's hand morphed into a wolf claw and pierced into my chest.
26:10Blood trickled down as he studied the terror in my eyes with cold fascination.
26:16It seems you don't know.
26:18Your blood alone can also weaken the curse.
26:21Looking at him now, so young yet overflowing with killing intent, I finally understand why Jade died the very day
26:26she came here to form the bond.
26:28I forced myself to speak through the pain.
26:30My blood can't save your entire clan.
26:32My blood can't save your entire clan.
26:35But if you bond with me, the curse will truly be broken.
26:38And after that, you'll never have to fear the Silver Moon curse again.
26:42The hall erupted into heated discussion.
26:45Damien slowly released me and stepped back.
26:48I clutched my throat, gasping for air.
26:51Suddenly gripped my chin and lifted my face, forcing me to meet his eyes.
26:56He studied me for a moment.
26:57Interesting. I'll give you a chance to live.
27:00Walk out of this hall alive.
27:02If you fail, I'll lock you away and drain your blood every day until the curse on every snow wolf
27:07is gone.
27:08Before I could respond, Damien disappeared.
27:11I looked around.
27:12Every snow wolf in the hall vanished at the same time.
27:15Damien?
27:17Where did you all go?
27:19A low, thunderous growl suddenly echoed from above.
27:22I slowly lifted my gaze.
27:24Beyond the transparent ice ceiling, a massive white bear stood outside, staring down at me.
27:28Its eyes blazed with hunger and savage intent.
27:31My eyes widened in horror.
27:32Hey, giant bear!
27:34Pallas, Damien, and several snow wolves stood quietly, observing me through the transparent ice structure.
27:41Alpha, are you truly going to kill her?
27:43Damien's eyes remained cold as he watched me inside.
27:45If what she said is true, we can always kill her after the curse is lifted.
27:49But blood feuds like ours are never forgotten.
27:52If we simply let her go, our ancestors and the clansmen who died will never accept it.
27:57He paused, his gaze fixed on me.
27:59Let her suffer a little first.
28:01Inside the palace, I stood tense and alert.
28:03Damien watched me closely.
28:05I suddenly turned and tried to run.
28:07With a thunderous crash, the giant bear smashed through the ice room.
28:11Shards of frozen stone rained down as it landed directly in front of me, blocking my escape.
28:15Outside, Damien continued watching.
28:17Looking at her closely, he thought, she is quite lively and beautiful.
28:22A pity she was born in the wrong place and came to the wrong place.
28:25She was always destined to become a sacrifice for her hatred.
28:28He exhaled quietly.
28:29He had no desire to watch me torn apart.
28:32Turning away, he gave an order.
28:34When it's over, bring her body back to the inner hall.
28:36Have the witch-octer keep her alive.
28:38That will be enough.
28:39Yes, Alpha.
28:41Damien began to walk away.
28:42He had barely taken a few steps when startled cries erupted behind him.
28:46Alpha, something's happening.
28:49Damien froze in place.
28:51Momentarily stunned.
28:52Inside the palace, I drew my sword.
28:54The entire blade erupted into blazing flames.
28:59Shock, quickly followed by admiration, crossed his features.
29:03On my face, cold sweat beaded across my skin, yet my expression remained steady and calm.
29:10That once filled my eyes had completely vanished.
29:13The roaring flame startled the giant bear.
29:15It instinctively retreated, letting out a low, uneasy growl.
29:18I held the burning sword in one hand while chanting a spell with the other.
29:22Golden runes spilled from my lips one after a gather, spiraling around the blade.
29:26The flames surged higher and higher, growing nearly as tall as the bear itself.
29:34With a fierce shout, I lifted the sword with both hands, and leaped into the air, charging towards the giant
29:39bear.
29:40Outside, watching from a distance, Damien's expression deepened with surprise.
29:44In his eyes now shone unmistakable admiration.
29:47The blazing fire terrified the giant bear, causing it to turn and flee.
29:51But I struck first.
29:52With a powerful swing, I brought the sword down in a blazing arc.
29:55One clean strike.
29:57The bear's head was severed instantly.
29:59The massive body collapsed to the ground, shaking the palace like an earthquake.
30:02I landed lightly.
30:04I planted one foot on the fallen bear's head.
30:06My body smeared with blood and fire.
30:08After a moment, my strength gave way.
30:11My body swayed.
30:12I drove the sword into the ground to stable myself, then dropped to one knee, breathing heavily.
30:18A deep claw wound tore across my right shoulder.
30:20Blood steadily soaking through my clothes.
30:23The watching snow wolves stared in disbelief.
30:26Everyone except Damien looked completely stunned.
30:29That silver moon woman killed a giant bear by herself.
30:31If I hadn't seen it with my own eyes, I never would have believed it.
30:35Could she possess some extraordinary power?
30:39Alpha, should we take advantage of her weakness and finish her off?
30:42Damien studied me for a long moment.
30:44Then he lifted his hand slightly and turned away.
30:46Withdraw.
30:47The others froze briefly before quickly following him.
30:49As they left, the first subordinate kept glancing back toward me, muttering quietly,
30:54I can't believe it.
30:55The alpha who's always so cold and ruthless actually let that woman live.
30:59...of the bed with one shoulder exposed.
31:01I poured a vial of crystal clear glowing liquid onto the claw wound on my shoulder.
31:05Unnoticed by me, Damien quietly stepped inside.
31:08Seeing me with my robe partly loosened, he leaned against the doorframe and watched in silence for a moment.
31:13The liquid touched the wound.
31:14The torn flesh immediately began to close.
31:17Just as I reached to pull my clothes back into place, Damien walked over and pressed down on the hand
31:21holding my robe.
31:22I startled, my heart suddenly tightening.
31:24Who's there?
31:25I turned my head.
31:27Damien stood before me, an untamed aura of wildness and killing intent radiating from him.
31:32In an instant, a dagger slid from my sleeve.
31:34I raised it and pressed the blade against Damien's throat.
31:37He arched a brow, completely unafraid.
31:40Instead of retreating, his hand slid along my arm before gripping my chin and lifting my face toward him.
31:45His gaze lingered between my eyes and my lips.
31:48Such courage.
31:50Do you really think you could kill me?
31:54Suddenly my body froze.
31:56I could no longer move.
31:58The dagger clenched in my hand became encased in frost.
32:01The thin layer of ice spread quickly before shattering into fragments.
32:04Alarm flashed across my eyes.
32:06Damien lifted me effortlessly and threw me down onto the bed.
32:09I pushed against his chest in panic, watching him warily.
32:12What are you doing?
32:13Making you fulfill your obligation.
32:16What?
32:18You're going to become my mate.
32:20Damien leaned down.
32:22His sharp fangs pierced the side of my neck.
32:24I grabbed his chest instinctively, trying to push him away.
32:27At that moment, a snow-white mark appeared on my wrist.
32:30Damien pulled me into a fierce kiss.
32:36Loud pounding erupted at the door.
32:40Alpha!
32:41The silver moon beta, Vincent, has forced his way into the palace alone.
32:45He says he'll die before leaving, unless he sees the Luna.
32:48Then what do you want from me?
32:51I don't understand.
32:55Damien's jaw tightened.
32:56The gold light flickered beneath his skin.
32:59The beta who couldn't protect you.
33:01He wants to see you now?
33:03I didn't speak.
33:04My heart slammed against my ribs.
33:06He studied my face.
33:07And then a cold smile curved his mouth.
33:09Bring him in.
33:10Vincent stood surrounded by snow wolves.
33:12Claws extended, a snarl echoing across the frozen earth.
33:15His armor was damaged.
33:17Blood streaked his face.
33:18But his eyes burned with desperate fury.
33:20The palace doors opened.
33:22I appeared beside Damien.
33:23His hand rested at the small of my back.
33:26The mark on my wrist glowed faintly.
33:28Vincent's gaze landed on it.
33:30Lydia.
33:32No.
33:33You shouldn't have come.
33:36I came to take you home.
33:38This is my home now.
33:39Damien's hand tightened on my waist.
33:41You heard my moon, goddess.
33:43She belongs here now.
33:45To me.
33:46Vincent's power exploded.
33:48Amber light burst from his chest.
33:49Heavy, searing, burning.
33:51The shift tore through his body.
33:53His wolf lunged at Damien.
33:56Damien met him midair.
33:59Ice erupted from his palm.
34:01Silver white.
34:02Pure.
34:03The shockwave shattered windows.
34:08They tore across the courtyard.
34:10Amber fire against silver ice.
34:12Vincent's claws gouged through stone.
34:14Damien's frost froze the air between them.
34:16Every collision exploded into steam.
34:19Vincent pinned Damien down.
34:21His jaws opened, aiming for the throat.
34:24I moved.
34:25My sword cleared the sheath.
34:27Gold rim spiraled along the blade as I whispered the spell my mother taught me.
34:30Golden fire roared to life.
34:32I slammed the plot of the blade into Vincent's chest.
34:35He flew backward, crashing through three ice pillars.
34:38Amber light flickered, then died.
34:40I stood over him, fire blazing along my sword.
34:43Go home, Vincent.
34:45If you come for me again, I won't miss.
34:48He looked up at me, broken, bleeding, finally seeing.
34:52Then he just appeared into the forest.
34:54I lowered my sword.
34:57The fire went out.
34:58Damien caught me before I could fall.
35:02I sat alone, staring at the mark on my wrist.
35:05The bond pulsed beneath my skin like a second heartbeat.
35:08The door opened.
35:09Damien walked into view and sat in the chair across from me.
35:12His posture was relaxed, but his eyes tracked every breath I took.
35:17Why did you let him live?
35:20You could have killed him.
35:22His expression didn't change.
35:24If I killed him, would you forgive me?
35:28I stared at him.
35:30What does it matter to you whether I forgive you or not?
35:32He stood and walked to the window.
35:34Moonlight caught the silver in his hair.
35:36You killed a bear with a burning sword.
35:39You walked into my hall knowing I might kill you and you never begged.
35:43I wanted you to suffer.
35:45But then I watched you fight.
35:47And I realized, you're not like them.
35:50You're not like anyone.
35:52What are you saying?
35:54He crossed the room in three strides and stopped inches from me.
35:57His hand lifted, fingertips brushing the spot on my neck where the mark rested.
36:01I'm saying I don't want to kill you, Lydia.
36:03And that terrifies me more than any enemy ever has.
36:07I didn't sleep.
36:09Around midnight, a soft scratching came at the window.
36:12I rose carefully.
36:13A wolf-toothed talisman hung from a silver chain, swaying in the wind.
36:17The charm was old.
36:18Vincent had made it for me when we were children.
36:21A folded note was tucked beneath it.
36:23I'll find a way.
36:25Wait for me.
36:26V.
36:26For a moment, I let myself remember.
36:29The boy who carried me through the poison flower fields.
36:32The boy who wiped away my tears.
36:34Then I looked at the mark on my wrist.
36:36Damien's mark.
36:37I left the talisman on the windowsill.
36:39Let the wind take it.
36:42I found Damien in the Great Hall, studying maps.
36:46A faction of Snove want war.
36:48They've been gathering strength, waiting for the curse to break.
36:52I studied the map.
36:55What do you want?
36:56I want my people to survive.
36:59I want to bury the hatred.
37:01I want you to stay.
37:03Not as a prisoner.
37:05As my moon goddess.
37:07My equal.
37:09The warriors around us exchanged glances.
37:11I looked at the mark on my wrist.
37:13I'll stay.
37:14But not because you command it.
37:16The corner of his mouth curved.
37:18I wouldn't expect anything less.
37:21Three days pass.
37:23The silver moon beta has returned.
37:26He says he won't leave without seeing you.
37:29I went to the border.
37:31Vincent stood alone, thinner than before, shadows beneath his eyes.
37:36You're still here.
37:38I told you I would be.
37:40He stepped forward.
37:42The snow wolf planking was shifted and the crowd rumbling.
37:45He stopped.
37:46Hands open.
37:47Empty.
37:47Unarmed.
37:48Lydia.
37:49I know you think I chose Jade.
37:51That I never loved you, but that's not the truth.
37:53I didn't speak.
37:55When we were children, you were everything to me.
37:59I would have died for you.
38:01I almost did.
38:03Then Jade came.
38:04I was weak.
38:05I let her manipulate me.
38:07But for the past three days, I've thought of nothing but you.
38:10The woman who faced the snow wolf alpha alone.
38:13The woman who killed a bear with a sword.
38:15The woman who walked into death to save her pack.
38:18That wasn't cruelty.
38:20That was courage.
38:21And I was too blind to see it.
38:23What do you want, Vincent?
38:25I want you to come home.
38:28I want to marry you, Lydia.
38:33Not Jade.
38:35Never Jade.
38:38I looked at his hands.
38:41I can't.
38:42Vincent's face went pale.
38:44What?
38:45I made a choice.
38:47I'm choosing to stay.
38:48With him?
38:50With the man who was going to kill you?
38:52He didn't kill me.
38:55He gave me a choice.
38:57No one in our pack ever gave me one.
39:01Lydia, he's using you.
39:02You think I don't know that?
39:04I spent my whole life chasing someone who never saw me.
39:08I begged my father to let me marry a man who loved my sister.
39:13I humiliated myself over and over for someone who looked at me with nothing but hate.
39:17And now, for the first time, someone sees me.
39:21Not a princess.
39:23Not a pawn.
39:24Someone who killed a bear and walked away.
39:28I'm not giving this up.
39:30Not for you.
39:31Not for anyone.
39:32He lowered his head.
39:34Then let me protect you.
39:37Even if you won't come home.
39:38You can't protect me, Vincent.
39:41He looked up, and I watched the truth finally settle into his bones.
39:45I walked back alone.
39:48Damien waited at the edge of the trees.
39:50He fell in to step beside me.
39:52After a long silence.
39:54I would let you go.
39:56If you chose him.
39:58I would hate it.
39:59But I wouldn't stop you.
40:01Why?
40:03He stopped and turned to face me.
40:05Because watching you leave would be easier than watching you stay out of obligation.
40:11He held out his hand.
40:12I took it.
40:15I left.
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