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00:00On the day of my wedding to the Lycan prince, his childhood sweetheart Rue, his wet nurse's daughter, killed herself
00:05with her own claw.
00:06Cain knocked over the Blood Covenant cup. He was silent for a long moment.
00:09Give the wetmaid some gold coins for her retirement.
00:13Bury Rue properly.
00:14Then he went back to completing the Blood Covenant ritual with me, as if nothing had happened.
00:18Five years later, the night before Cain's coronation as Lycan king, the elders examined me and declared I was barren.
00:23Would never bear children.
00:25He had his warriors drag me to the stone quarry behind the royal grounds.
00:27Made me pave a road of atonement. Said I could never return to court.
00:31That night, he pointed at Rue's grave marker and said,
00:33She was carrying my pup when she died.
00:36If your Stormfrank tribe weren't so powerful, why would I have married you?
00:41Rue would still be alive. And so would my child.
00:45You don't deserve to have offspring. Spend the rest of your life moving stones.
00:50Atone for Rue and her pup.
00:53Within a year, my father and brother were framed for colluding with vampires.
00:56The entire Stormfrank tribe was slaughtered.
00:58I coughed up blood and died.
01:00Then I opened my eyes.
01:02I was back the day I was marrying into the royal court.
01:04Outside, the wolves were howling at the moon.
01:07The sound of Alpha Cain kicking the wedding carriage axle snapped me fully awake.
01:12I was reborn.
01:13I clenched my fists.
01:15My heart pounded.
01:16If the moon goddess was giving me a second chance, I wasn't going to waste it.
01:21The Stormflank tribe wouldn't die in vain.
01:23I would live this time, and I would make him pay for every drop of blood he spilled in my
01:28past life.
01:29Cain led me into the ritual circle.
01:31Freya, my handmaiden, steadied my arm.
01:34As she leaned in, I whispered a few quick words.
01:37Freya's eyes flickered.
01:38She was a warrior raised by the Stormfling tribe.
01:41She'd been by my side since childhood.
01:43A handmaiden in name.
01:44A bodyguard in truth.
01:45I trusted her completely.
01:47The wedding between Alpha Cain and the daughter of Stormfang.
01:49Every chieftain in the northern territories had come with their mates.
01:52It was the biggest union the north had seen in years.
01:55The daughter of Stormfang was about to become the luna of the royal court.
01:59The ritual circle was alive with noise.
02:01In the name of the moon goddess, bind by blood.
02:05Then a young servant from Rue's room came running in, stumbling over herself.
02:08Alpha!
02:09Rue tried to kill herself!
02:13Tears streaming down her face.
02:15She dropped to her knees, forehead hitting the ground.
02:18Rue grew up with the Alpha.
02:20Please, Alpha, save her!
02:22Why would she do something so stupid?
02:24I told her I'd give her a title after the wedding.
02:27He caught himself mid-sentence and shut his mouth.
02:29He turned to run.
02:30Remembered it was his wedding day.
02:32Every chieftain in the north was watching.
02:34If he left now, by tomorrow, his father's desk would be buried in letters demanding his head.
02:39Leora, I need to check on Rue.
02:41I'll come back and finish the blood covenant.
02:43The wedding's set.
02:44What's the hurry?
02:45I widened my eyes, made my voice small and pitiful.
02:48Alpha, this is a matter of life and death.
02:51Why don't I come with you?
02:53A luna should handle household affairs after all.
02:57Kane looked relieved.
02:58Yes, yes, of course.
02:59So the Alpha and his bride-to-be left the ritual circle halfway through the ceremony to visit a wet
03:04nurse's daughter.
03:05The crowd whispered behind us.
03:07They couldn't believe it.
03:08Inside the wooden house, Rue was wearing a moonlight gown.
03:10The kind a bride was supposed to wear for the blood covenant.
03:13She'd dyed cheap burlap white herself.
03:15The stitches were crooked.
03:17Her half-shifted claws were pressed against her own throat.
03:20Her fingertips had already broken skin.
03:22Blood trickled down her neck, dripping onto the white dress.
03:24She saw Kane walk in.
03:26Burst in tears.
03:29Threw herself at him.
03:31Alpha, I didn't mean to.
03:33I just want to be with you.
03:37I know I'm low-born.
03:39Destemptity.
03:40I can never be your luna.
03:42But I wanted, just once, to wear a moonlight gown and complete the blood covenant with you.
03:50You know I've wanted to be your mate.
03:52Since we were children.
03:54Kane pulled her close.
03:56His face was twisted with pain.
03:58Why are you so stupid?
04:00Why are you stupid?
04:01I told you I'd give you a title after the luna moved in.
04:07Why would you do this?
04:09If anything happened to you, how could I go on?
04:13Are you trying to rip my heart out?
04:15Rude took his hand.
04:16Placed it gently over her stomach.
04:19Alpha the healer came a few days ago.
04:21I'm carrying your pup.
04:24Two months.
04:25I didn't want my child to be born low-win.
04:29To be mocked.
04:30And called bastard.
04:35That's why I...
04:36Really?
04:39Really?
04:41You're carrying my pup?
04:45Yes, Alpha.
04:48We're having a child.
04:49They held each other.
04:50Everyone else just stared.
04:52No way.
04:54The Alpha knocked up a wet mater's daughter?
04:58On his wedding day.
05:00And she chose today to make a scene.
05:02Look at them.
05:03This is bad.
05:04Iora must be devastated.
05:06She's the future luna.
05:07This is a slap in Stormfing's face.
05:10Alpha Kane.
05:11I thought she was just a servant.
05:12Now you're telling me she's pregnant with your pup?
05:14Leora.
05:15She's my wet nurse's daughter.
05:17We grew up together.
05:19She's the woman I love.
05:20So you're in love.
05:21You've been meeting in secret.
05:23And now there's a child.
05:28Roos scrambled off the bed, dropped to the floor in a full submission kneel, forehead to
05:34the ground, hands spread wide, throat bared.
05:39Luna, it's not the Alpha's fault.
05:42Luna, it's not myself.
05:44It's mine.
05:46I couldn't control myself.
05:53My palm connected with her cheek.
06:00How dare you?
06:03I'm the legitimate daughter of Stormfun.
06:05I was raised with discipline.
06:08I will not be slander.
06:09I met the Alpha two times before the engagement.
06:12Always with elders present.
06:15Never alone.
06:15So don't drag my name through the mud.
06:19Just to make yourself look less disgusting.
06:23Roos sobbed.
06:24Shook her head.
06:28It's my fault, Luna.
06:31Forgive me.
06:33Then she half-shifted and dragged her own claws down her face.
06:37Three gashes from forehead to cheekbone.
06:40Blood poured down her cheeks.
06:42Pain grabbed her arms.
06:44Stop.
06:47He looked at me.
06:49I not, you renounced to bent.
06:51His voice was sharp with blame.
06:53This isn't Rue's fault.
06:55That's baking at you it.
06:57You were.
06:58That's the only difference.
07:01Without your father's wolves.
07:05Would I want you as Luna?
07:07Rue tried to kill herself today because of you.
07:10She's carrying my pup!
07:13Now you're married in.
07:15Rue is my consort.
07:16I won't leave her or my child without a title.
07:19I laughed at him.
07:20Luna?
07:21The Lycan King himself had approved this match.
07:23If it weren't for this engagement,
07:25Kane wouldn't even be sitting in the Alpha's seat.
07:27I lifted my chin.
07:29The Luna position was granted by the Lycan King himself.
07:35How you've behaved today on our wedding day.
07:37Insults not only Stormfig, but also the king.
07:41If you loved Rue, why not call the engagement?
07:43You wanted my family's army.
07:45And your lover.
07:47Did you think I'd refuse you a consort?
07:51And you?
07:54You've known about the pregnancy.
07:55You waited until wedding day to make a scene.
07:59Are you really not doing this on purpose?
08:03I heard a servant say,
08:04You make consorts drink sterilization tonic.
08:07I was afraid for my pup.
08:10Sterilization tonic.
08:12Which servant?
08:13My people just arrived.
08:15They don't even know where the wooden houses are.
08:17Why would they gossip about me?
08:18Do you think the servants of Stormburn are as undisciplined as yours?
08:22Go on.
08:22Name the servant.
08:23Let's have a face-to-face confrontation.
08:26Rue's face went red.
08:28Then pale.
08:29Finally, she whispered.
08:31Oh.
08:32I don't know.
08:33Maybe I misheard.
08:34Everyone understood.
08:36It was pathetic.
08:37Just a whore.
08:38Using her belly to cause trouble on a wedding day.
08:41She thought a noble bride would be too ashamed to fight back.
08:44Leora must be so humiliated.
08:46She's a Stormhome.
08:47The future Luna.
08:49Then Kane's wet nade.
08:51Rue's mother came rushing in.
08:53Drop to her knees in full submission pose.
08:57Luna.
08:57Luna.
08:58Raise the alpha.
09:00Give Rue a title.
09:01Or the king and queen will kill her.
09:05Get up.
09:08You're my Luna.
09:10And you're making her kneel?
09:11This is how Stormfin treats elders?
09:15I loved Rue before you.
09:18I accepted you as Luna.
09:20But if you're this jealous and petty, how can you be mate to a future Lycan king?
09:28I remembered what he'd done to my family in my past life.
09:32The blood rushed to my head.
09:36This time, I would not let history repeat.
09:41Kane and Rue clung to each other.
09:43I stepped back and pulled off my wolf-thing necklace.
09:49Your love is so touching.
09:51I won't stand between you.
09:53We haven't completed the blood covenant.
09:55Technically, we aren't mates.
09:57And Rue is already wearing her moonlight gown.
10:00Why don't you two complete the ritual together?
10:06The engagement is over.
10:08I'm not marrying me.
10:11The chieftains behind me erupted.
10:15No way.
10:16The Lycan king himself approved this match.
10:22The alpha slapped Stormfin in the face.
10:24Rannar Stormfin won't let this go.
10:26Lyora is a Stormfog princess.
10:28She doesn't have to take this.
10:29She'd rather lose the Luna position than tolerate a servant's bastard child.
10:35Kane stared at me, stunned.
10:37You're breaking off the engagement?
10:39This is treason.
10:40My father approved this marriage.
10:43Alpha, don't fight with the Luna because of me.
10:46I'll give up everything.
10:47Go complete the blood covenant.
10:49Don't make the Lion King angry.
10:52Don't break father and son apart.
10:54You're always thinking of me.
10:56My good Rue.
10:58I won't fail you.
11:01Are you sure your father and brother will agree to this?
11:03Can Stormvag really give up this kind of power?
11:06Stormfold can.
11:16Stormfold can.
11:18It was my father.
11:19Behind him stood my brother.
11:21Ragnar Stormfin.
11:22This marriage was approved by the Lion King.
11:27Your daughter cannot simply throw away a royal convovenant.
11:30He humiliated you in front of every tribe.
11:34Hold.
11:35My daughter has spoken.
11:37Stormfin stands with her.
11:39This covenant is broken.
11:41You dare defy the King's order.
11:44Tomorrow, I'll go to court myself.
11:46You dare!
11:48Leora, if you leave the royal court today, don't think you can ever come back.
11:52Don't worry, Alpha.
11:53I will never set foot in this court again.
12:01My father and brother brought me home.
12:03My mother had already heard the news.
12:06My Leora.
12:07You've been wronged.
12:09Her eyes were red as she came out to meet us.
12:12Because it was my wedding day, our tribe's relatives and friends were all there.
12:15Everyone was already here.
12:18Don't worry.
12:19You'll find someone better.
12:20He's not worth it.
12:21I laughed through my tears.
12:22This time, my family and tribe were alive.
12:25I would protect them.
12:27My mother held my hand.
12:28I leaned into her, feigning girlish neediness.
12:31Father, you and mother have to stand up for me.
12:34That Alpha humiliated me.
12:36He disrespected Father, too.
12:38Don't worry.
12:40The Alpha's out of line.
12:42We're not the only ones who will be writing letters of complaint.
12:46The next morning...
12:47Miss, you're awake.
12:49Something huge happened.
12:51You'll be so happy.
12:53It turned out that after I left the wedding, the servants had spread the news all the way to the
12:58Lion King and Queen.
13:02The Queen had smashed a cup of wine in fury.
13:05Rue Morrow.
13:07Of all the people to offend, he chose Stormfane?
13:10That bitch.
13:11I knew her.
13:13A servant girl.
13:15I never took her seriously.
13:16Now she's carrying his pup?
13:19She thought Liara would just accept it quietly?
13:22On her wedding day?
13:23Does she even know who Liara is?
13:26Stormberg's only daughter.
13:28Raised by the Luna herself, I picked Liara for Cain.
13:31I spent years arranging this match.
13:34And they ruined it.
13:36All for a half-grown pup.
13:38She thinks she can marry into the royal court because she's got a lump of flesh in her belly?
13:43This court has never lacked for pups.
13:45Bring Rue Morrowind to the moon goddess altar.
13:48Make her kneel and reflect on her mistakes.
13:50When the Queen's female warriors dragged Rue out of her wooden house, she was still screaming.
13:57How dare you!
13:58I'm carrying the Lichen Royal Family's pup!
14:04When Alpha Cain finds out, he'll have you executed!
14:08The warriors were calm.
14:09Let me go!
14:11The Queen's orders.
14:13No!
14:15Kneel at the moon goddess altar.
14:17When you understand your mistake, you can get up.
14:20Impossible!
14:21I'm carrying a future royal pup!
14:24The Queen can't do this to me!
14:26I'm the Alpha's future consort!
14:29The Queen's personal attendant stood to the side, expressionless.
14:32Miss, the Queen has made herself clear.
14:35You ruined the Alpha's engagement.
14:38The punishment for that is death.
14:43If you don't kneel and reflect, you can reflect in the dungeon instead.
14:47Rue's face went white.
14:48She didn't say another word.
14:50She spent the moonless night on her knees at the moon goddess altar, hands bound behind her back, an iron
14:56chain around her neck.
14:58Noble women passing by whispered,
15:01This is the servant girl from yesterday.
15:03She's not a servant.
15:05She's the wet nurse's daughter.
15:06Her mother was claimed by a servant.
15:08She was born a slave.
15:10She grew up with the Alpha.
15:13I think she can seduce her way to the top.
15:16Disgusting.
15:17I heard Ragnar Stormvon went to court today to ask for the engagement to be formally arrived.
15:21If that happens, if that happens, the Queen is going to flay her alive.
15:26Rue broke out in a cold sweat.
15:28She looked like she might collapse.
15:33My father and brother knelt before the Lycan King.
15:35Your Majesty, we spoiled our daughter.
15:37She's not fit to marry the Alpha.
15:39Leora heard that the Alpha loved someone else.
15:41That woman is pregnant.
15:43Leora didn't want to come between them.
15:44She asked to annul the engagement.
15:46Please, Your Majesty, understand.
15:48The King's face was dark.
15:49Cain, what do you say?
15:51Cain lifted his chin.
15:52Ragnar Stormfern, where the women of Stormfern never taught basic manners.
15:57I'm going to be Lyon King, so what if I have another woman?
16:00She calls off the engagement over that?
16:03Spoiled.
16:04Completely spoiled.
16:05My brother raised his head.
16:06Alpha, this isn't worth it.
16:08A single woman?
16:09You'd ruin an alliance over one woman?
16:12You sit at the highest seat of power.
16:13You're supposed to set an example.
16:15Plenty of other women want to be my Luna.
16:17If your daughter doesn't want the position, fine.
16:20Engagement annulled.
16:21Your Majesty, the Alpha has agreed.
16:25Please issue the decree.
16:26My father pressed his forehead to the ground.
16:28The Lion King looked at his son with disappointment.
16:31You are my heir, and yet you behave like this.
16:34Fine.
16:34If you insist on breaking this engagement, I will give you what you want.
16:39My father and brother left the court, beaming.
16:42Meanwhile, on Cain's side, he barely stepped out of the hall when a servant came running.
16:47Your Highness, Rue, the Queen, locked her in the tower.
16:51At the moon goddess altar.
16:53Cain rushed over.
16:55Rue was pale as death from kneeling.
16:57She saw him and collapsed into his arms.
17:01Alpha, save me.
17:03Cain carried her into the hall.
17:05The Queen rose to her feet, incandescent.
17:08Cain!
17:09You defied your father's order for her.
17:11You defied my order.
17:14Are you trying to bring the whole court down?
17:16Cain set Rue down, knelt before the Queen.
17:20Mother, Rue is carrying my first pup.
17:23Your grandchild.
17:24The Queen smashed her cup.
17:28One pup?
17:29Against the entire Stormflow tribe?
17:31Do you understand what you've lost?
17:33Stormflow's wolves.
17:34The strongest warriors in the north.
17:37Gone!
17:38Cain raised his head.
17:39Stormfling is a loyal subject of my father.
17:42Whether his daughter is my Luna or not, he will serve the king.
17:46I'm not afraid.
17:48If I can't protect the woman I love, what kind of alpha am I?
17:52Not giving Rue the Luna position is already my biggest concession.
17:56Leora disrespected me.
17:58If I'd let her into this court, it would have been endless trouble.
18:02The Queen stared at him.
18:03For a long moment, she said nothing.
18:06Then she waved her hand.
18:08Years of teaching.
18:09All wasted.
18:12Fine.
18:13Have it your way.
18:15Leave.
18:15The news spread through the court.
18:18Cain had fought with the Queen over Rue.
18:21Some saw opportunity.
18:23If Rue would be the alpha's consort, it was worth curring favor.
18:29Noble women began visiting her.
18:36The Queen announced she would be selecting a new Luna for Cain.
18:41There was a banquet for the arrival of the Southern Emzays.
18:43The Queen invited all the noble daughters to keep them company.
18:47After the banquet, we walked through the moon goddess garden toward the spring pool.
18:53Rue was sitting in one of the poolside chairs, wearing a dark red dress.
18:57Several servants stood around her.
18:59She smiled when she saw us.
19:01Leora.
19:01Long time.
19:02Too bad the alpha isn't here today.
19:05We could have caught up.
19:06I heard you isn't engaged yet.
19:08Still waiting for the alpha?
19:09Oh, but the Queen is going to pick a new Luna for him soon.
19:12I bet you're regretting leaving now.
19:14I sat down across from her.
19:16I heard today was about choosing the alpha's Luna.
19:19Oh, but Rue, you're pregnant.
19:20I can't just call you by name.
19:22But you haven't been officially named a consort yet, have you?
19:26I heard today was about choosing the alpha's Luna.
19:29But you haven't been officially named a consort yet, have you?
19:32I'm not sure what to call you.
19:34That servant's bastard?
19:36The Queen seems to really like the Southern Princess.
19:40The Luna selection is probably settled.
19:42The Queen might pick a Luna, but the alpha says I'm the only one he loves.
19:46He'll bring in other women, but they'll just be decorations.
19:48I'm not worried.
19:49Whoever comes into this court, they'll answer to me.
19:51The Luna?
19:52The Luna is a joke.
19:53You all seem to be having such an interesting conversation.
19:56Mind if I join?
19:57I didn't see this young lady at the banquet.
19:59Who is she?
20:01Princess!
20:02This is the alpha's wet nerther's daughter.
20:04One of the noblewomens explained.
20:06The one who caused a scene at his wedding.
20:08She's the alpha's favorite.
20:10None of us dare cross her.
20:13A wet mercer's daughter?
20:15So, a servant?
20:17And she doesn't even have a title?
20:18Then why are you sitting?
20:20We outrank you.
20:22Are you going to stand and bow?
20:24Is this how things are done in the North?
20:26Someone teach her some manners.
20:28Pick her up.
20:29Rue screamed as the guards stepped forward.
20:33Don't touch me!
20:34I'm carrying the alpha's pot!
20:36You're a servant.
20:37Teaching you manners is doing you a favor.
20:39How is that a death sentence?
20:41Rue's voice turned strilly.
20:43The alpha and I grew up together!
20:46We love each other!
20:48Touch me and see what happens, princess!
20:52I said, do it.
20:56The princess raised her voice.
20:59The guards grabbed Rue and forced her to her knees.
21:03The alpha will have you all killed!
21:06Rue struggled.
21:07Hit her.
21:09The guards slapped Rue across the face.
21:12Her cheek swelled.
21:15Rue let out a high-pitched scream, shoved the guards away, and half-shifted.
21:21Bitch!
21:22She lunged at the princess.
21:23The princess reacted just a second too late.
21:26Something cut through the stillness and left its mark.
21:29I lunged forward, grabbed Rue, and shoved her back.
21:33She tripped over a tent rope.
21:35She screamed, but she held on and pulled me with her.
21:37We both fell into the pool.
21:38I could swim, but Rue panicked and latched onto me.
21:42We sank together.
21:45Before I lost consciousness, someone doved in.
21:48They pulled Rue off me, dragged me to shore.
21:51Brother, give Leora your cloak!
21:53She saved me, brother!
21:54Help her!
21:57The healers pounded my back.
21:59Finally, I could breathe.
22:01Alpha Cain!
22:02Lyra told that southern savage to hit me, and she pushed me into the water.
22:06She tried to kill my pup.
22:07The queen is here.
22:09The queen and her party arrived at the pool.
22:12Rue threw herself at the queen's feet.
22:14Your majesty!
22:16Leora tried to murder a royal pup.
22:18She should be executed on the spot!
22:21I stood up.
22:22Wiped my mouth.
22:23Kill a chieftain's daughter on the spot?
22:25You have a lot of nerve.
22:27I fell in because you dragged me.
22:30Everyone saw.
22:31The southern princess pressed a cloth to her face.
22:34Her voice was loud and furious.
22:36Your majesty, I don't know the customs here.
22:40But in the south, attempting to assassinate a princess means execution for the assassin's entire family.
22:47She tried to kill me.
22:48Everyone saw.
22:49She clawed my face!
22:51Cain rushed forward and put himself between the princess and Rue.
22:54That's just your side of story.
22:56Rue is timid.
22:57She would never...
22:57Leora, you were the one who didn't want to be my Luna.
23:01If you're having regrets, don't take it out on Rue.
23:03Oh, pushing her into the water with my pup inside her?
23:07That's a capital crime.
23:08A man stepped forward.
23:09Alpha Cain.
23:11Are you saying my sister is lying?
23:13He wore southern royal robes, sharp features.
23:16He was Sorin Morningshide, third prince of the south.
23:19I happen to see everything in the pool.
23:21The prince is protective of his sister.
23:23Understandable.
23:24But you shouldn't make false accusations.
23:25Sorin pulled the princess' hand away from her face.
23:28Looked at the bloody gash.
23:31Are you saying the southern princess clawed her own face just to frame a servant girl?
23:36I wasn't the only one watching.
23:37Your northern chieftains were there.
23:39The law keepers were there.
23:40Are they lying too?
23:41Standing nearby were the chieftains and justices.
23:44They were all looking at Cain with cold expressions.
23:48Cain, your woman tried to assassinate a southern princess.
23:51Cain's expression darkened.
23:54He turned and slapped Rue across the face.
23:59You lying bitch.
24:01You tried to frame the princess and Leora?
24:05Apologize.
24:06Now!
24:07Rue clutched her face, staring at him in disbelief.
24:11You hit me?
24:13For her?
24:14Cain leaned in, voice low and threatening.
24:18Apologize.
24:19Unless you want my father to execute you.
24:22Now.
24:23Then he hurried to Sorin's side, trying to smooth things over.
24:27The southern princess wasn't calming down.
24:29I walked over to Rue.
24:32Leaned down.
24:33Spoke only loud enough for her to hear.
24:35The south is here to make an alliance.
24:38Do you really think the alpha will take your side over theirs?
24:41I could crush you like an insect.
24:43You're nothing.
24:45A servant's bastard.
24:55Saurin caught my wrist.
24:57The moment he touched me, he went completely still.
25:00Mate.
25:02The word was low and rough, dragged up from somewhere deep.
25:06I froze.
25:06Before I could process it, he let go, closed his eyes briefly, collected himself.
25:12When he opened them again, his voice was cold and hard.
25:15Alpha Cain, you don't give my sister justice.
25:18I'll take it myself.
25:21Rue's face twisted.
25:22She pointed at Sorin.
25:23You're defending Lyora?
25:25You don't know what kind of slut she is!
25:27She's jealous of me!
25:29She's hated me ever since Cain chose me!
25:31You think she likes you?
25:33Don't be pathetic.
25:34Rue, not everyone is as small-minded as you.
25:38I'm never marrying Cain.
25:39And I'm never being Luna.
25:41You can stop worrying.
25:42Rue clutched her stomach.
25:44You noble girls.
25:45So fake.
25:46You think I don't know you're just playing hard to get?
25:49You want Cain to come crawling back?
25:50You talk too much.
25:54The Princess Silver Whip lashed across Rue's face.
25:58She clawed my face.
25:59I'll take a hundred times that.
26:01Arrest her.
26:02One hundred flashes.
26:04The whip came down again and again.
26:06Rue screamed.
26:07Riled.
26:08Every lash left a burning welt.
26:10Cain tried to rush forward, but the Queen grabbed his arm.
26:15Cain.
26:16Do you want to start a war with the South by the 20th lash?
26:20Cain couldn't take it anymore.
26:21He shoved the executioner aside.
26:24The Princess stepped forward to argue, but Sorin stopped her.
26:28A servant attacks royalty.
26:30The Master must answer for her.
26:32The Lyman King is the Master here.
26:33I've already sent word to our father.
26:35This will be handled properly.
26:36You think I'm like the noble girls here?
26:38I don't make idle threats.
26:40If I see your face again, I'll kill you.
26:44Rue was carried away.
26:46Soaked in blood.
26:47Cain stood in silence.
26:48Head down.
26:49Behave yourself.
26:51Cain opened his mouth.
26:52Stay in line.
26:53If you still want to be Alpha.
26:55The Queen cut him off.
26:56Rue miscarried it that night.
26:58She cried out all night.
26:59No one came.
27:01Not even Cain.
27:02Before dawn, Cain's steward came.
27:04He moved Rue and her mother out of the court to a small house on the northern border.
27:08The Alpha is merciful.
27:10Leaving before sunrise.
27:11He'll report you dead.
27:12You'll be brought back to court as his consort once you've recovered.
27:16She waited.
27:18He never came.
27:19She heard that Cain was taking a new Luna.
27:22Rue ran out of the wooden house.
27:24In the distance, the court blazed with bonfires.
27:27Cain rode a giant wolf at the head of the procession.
27:30The Luna's carriage followed.
27:31The whole territory was celebrating.
27:34Cain!
27:34She screamed.
27:36Cain!
27:37I'm Rue!
27:38I'm the woman you love!
27:40Don't you remember?
27:42Don't you remember?
27:44The drums and the howls dragged round her out.
27:47People shoved past her.
27:49She couldn't get close.
27:50She followed as far as the gates.
27:53A warrior blocked her.
27:54No entry.
27:56I'm Rue!
27:58The Alphas!
27:59Conskort!
28:01The warrior pushed her back.
28:03The Alpha has no consort.
28:06Leave.
28:07Keep causing trouble.
28:09And we won't be nice.
28:11She went back to the wooden house in a daze.
28:15Cain's steward was there.
28:17With an unfamiliar old woman.
28:21The Alpha gives you these coins.
28:23You and your mother leave the North tonight.
28:27I don't believe you.
28:28The steward snapped his fingers.
28:30Coins are wolf-a-ban juice.
28:32A servant brought out a small bottle.
28:34Choose.
28:36She collapsed onto the floor.
28:38How did this happen?
28:40He loved me.
28:41The steward laughed.
28:43Miss, the Alpha is the future Lion King.
28:46He was infatuated.
28:47But the other princes are moving up.
28:50Now Cain knows.
28:52Power matters more than love.
28:53Rue asked.
28:54Who's the Luna?
28:55Is it Leora?
28:56The old woman snarted.
28:57Our Luna is a chieftain's daughter from the North.
29:01I heard Leora's engagement has been settled.
29:04She's marrying into the South.
29:06Didn't you know?
29:07Rue stared blankly.
29:11Then she started laughing.
29:13Hysterical.
29:15Tears running down her face.
29:17Stupid.
29:18I was so stupid.
29:20All that scheming.
29:22For nothing.
29:23She looked at her hands.
29:25At the full moon rising outside the window.
29:30My mother was right.
29:32And Omega's life means nothing.
29:35She poured the wolf's bane juice down her throat.
29:38Sorin asked the Lichen King for my hand.
29:41The King agreed.
29:42The engagement was announced.
29:43Sorin was already the Southern King's heir.
29:46With the alliance sealed, the Southern King publicly named him Crown Prince.
29:50I married into the South.
29:52I would be the future Queen.
29:53Sorin and I lived in harmony.
29:56Two years later, I gave birth to a son.
30:00News came from the North.
30:02Alpha Cain had been deposed for incompetence.
30:06His younger brother was named heir in his place.
30:09I held my son.
30:10Looked at the northern sky.
30:13Look.
30:15That's where your mother comes from.
30:20It's time to go home.
30:22Two years later, I returned to the North.
30:25Not as Alpha Cain's discarded wife, but as the Crown Princess of the South.
30:29Sorin rode beside my carriage, his hand never far from the door.
30:33The royal court gates opened.
30:34Cain's black wolf crest was gone.
30:36In its place flew the silver banner of his younger brother, Rowan, the new heir of the North.
30:41The Lichen King and Queen stood at the top of the steps.
30:43And behind them, my father, my mother, and my brother.
30:47Alive.
30:48My throat tightened.
30:49Sorin reached into the carriage and held my hand.
30:52The Lichen King stepped forward.
30:53Princess Leora, the North owes you justice.
30:57Bring him out.
30:58A man was dragged forward in chains.
31:01Cain.
31:01His hair was unkempt.
31:03His face was thin.
31:04His once proud shoulders were bent.
31:06He looked up.
31:07The moment he saw me holding my son, his eyes turned red.
31:11Leora.
31:13Sorin's hand moved to his sword.
31:15Then, before the entire Northern Court, the former Alpha dropped to his knees.
31:20Cain knelt on the stone steps.
31:22In my past life, he had made me kneel in the quarry until I died.
31:27Leora.
31:28I was wrong.
31:30The words came too late.
31:32Cain has been stripped of his title.
31:34He is no longer Alpha.
31:35He begged to apologize before the South-North Alliance ceremony.
31:38Cain looked at my son.
31:41Is he yours?
31:42Sorin's face darkened.
31:46Of course he is.
31:47I stepped out of the carriage.
31:49Sorin helped me down.
31:51Cain reached toward my hen, but stopped before touching me.
31:54I thought Rue loved me.
31:56I thought you were arrogant, spoiled, and cold.
31:59I looked down at him.
32:00No.
32:01You thought power meant never having to earn love.
32:03Rue left something before she died.
32:05Cain lowered his head.
32:06The steward stepped forward with a sealed leather pouch.
32:10Cain's voice shook.
32:11It names the people who helped her.
32:13My brother's expression changed.
32:15Helped her do what?
32:16Cain looked at the Lycan king.
32:19Then at me.
32:20Frame, Stormhawk.
32:22The courtyard went silent.
32:23My father's face turned cold.
32:24In my past life, Stormfang had been accused of colluding with vampires.
32:28Now the same knife had appeared again.
32:30The Lycan king broke the seal and read Rue's final confession.
32:32Before the wedding, Lady Marwyn promised me that if I forced Leora out,
32:36I would become Cain's only woman.
32:38A murmur swept through the court.
32:39Lady Marwyn, the noblewoman whose daughter later became Cain's luna.
32:43The king continued.
32:44Lady Marwyn said Stormfin was too powerful.
32:46If Learla married Cain, the queen would favor her, and Cain would become useless.
32:50The queen's face darted.
32:51She said once Stormfine withdrawn, evidence would appear proving Ravnar Stormfine had exchanged
32:55letters with vampires.
32:56My brother stepped forward, furious.
33:01I didn't know.
33:03You didn't want to know.
33:04A dead servant's words prove nothing.
33:07Then you won't mind if the South examines your letters.
33:10A Southern guard entered and kneeled.
33:12Your Highness, we found a hidden raven tube in Lady Marwyn's carriage.
33:15He opened a silver case.
33:16Inside were three blood-sealed letters.
33:19The seal belonged to the vampires.
33:22Lady Marwyn tried to run.
33:25My brother slammed her to the ground before she reached the steps.
33:29Keep her alive.
33:30Keep her alive.
33:31The Lycan king opened one of the letters.
33:33His face grew colder.
33:35The vampires promised troops on the eastern border.
33:37In exchange, Lady Marwyn would deliver Stormflun patrol routes.
33:40Those routes are known only to the royal court and Stormflun commanders.
33:43The queen looked at Cain.
33:45Cain went pale.
33:46His own household had leaked them.
33:49Lady Marwyn laughed through the blood in her mouth.
33:52Stormben was too strong.
33:53The queen favored Leora.
33:55If that girl entered the royal court, my daughter would never rise.
33:59Rue was stupid.
34:00You were stupider.
34:01I only pushed you where you already wanted to go.
34:04Cain froze.
34:05I walked to Lady Marwyn and crouched before her.
34:08In another life, your plan worked.
34:11My father died.
34:13My brother died.
34:15Stormfen burned.
34:18For my father.
34:21For my brother.
34:23For Stormfen.
34:25The Lycan king raised his hand.
34:27Arrest Lady Marwek and her household.
34:29At that moment, a horn sounded from the eastern wall.
34:33A scout rushed in.
34:34Your majesty!
34:35Vampire riders have crossed the border!
34:37The conspiracy had failed, so the war began.
34:40The northern court erupted.
34:43My father began issuing orders.
34:45Stormfling riders to the eastern pass!
34:48Send word to Frostheak and Ironclaw!
34:51Sora stepped forward.
34:52The southern escort rides with Stormfling.
34:54The Lion King looked at him.
34:56This is a northern war.
34:58My wife is northern.
35:00My son has northern blood.
35:02That makes it mine.
35:03Cain struggled against his chains.
35:06Let me fight!
35:08Let me fight!
35:12No.
35:12Lyora, I know the eastern pass.
35:16I can help.
35:17I remembered the quarry.
35:18The stones.
35:19The blood.
35:20Then, I looked at my father.
35:23He said nothing.
35:25The choice was mine.
35:27I walked toward Cain.
35:28If I let you fight, it is not forgiveness.
35:32I know.
35:33If you run, my brother will hunt you down.
35:36I know.
35:37If you betray Stormflag, I will kill you myself.
35:40Cain lowered his head.
35:41Yes.
35:42I turned to the Lion King.
35:43Unchain him.
35:44Put him under Stormflag command.
35:46My brother stared at me.
35:47Sister.
35:48We need every wolf.
35:49The eastern warbell sounded again.
35:51This time, close.
35:52We rad for the eastern pass before sunset.
35:55My son stayed behind with my mother and the queen.
35:58He kissed his forehead and left.
36:00The eastern pass was burning when we arrived.
36:04Vampire arrows fell like rain.
36:06Stormflag warriors held the ridge.
36:08But the enemy had silver chains and fire oils.
36:10My father shifted first.
36:13A massive gray wolf charged down the slope.
36:16The Stormfig line followed.
36:20Zoran drew his sword.
36:23Stay where I can see you.
36:25Better.
36:26The battle swallowed us.
36:27A vampire lunged at me.
36:29I drove my dagger into his ribs.
36:31Another came from the side.
36:33Cain slammed into him and tore him down.
36:35For one second, we looked at each other.
36:38No gratitude.
36:39No forgiveness.
36:41Only war.
36:42Then someone screamed.
36:43Lord Ragnar!
36:45Across the ridge, my father had been caught in silver nets.
36:49Three vampires surrounded him.
36:50My brother rushed in and took a blade through his shoulder.
36:53Father!
36:55The blade went through him.
36:57My world went cold.
37:03Again.
37:04Not this time.
37:06Before any crown, I was Stormbone.
37:08I tore through the battlefield toward my father and brother.
37:11The vampire who stabbed my brother turned to throat.
37:14I hit him with my full weight and ripped out his too late.
37:19My brother stared at me.
37:20Sister.
37:23Your dress.
37:24My southern silk gown was shredded and soaked in blood.
37:29Mother will scold me later.
37:31Sorin cut through the silver net around my father.
37:33Cain helped him.
37:34For a moment, the former northern heir and the southern crown prince fought side by side.
37:39My father rose.
37:40Wounded, but alive.
37:41Line formation!
37:43The vampires began to fall back.
37:45Too easily.
37:46Sorin noticed it too.
37:47They wanted us to chase.
37:49I turned toward the smoke.
37:50A smaller vampire unit was moving west.
37:52Toward the royal court.
37:53Toward my son.
37:54The main attack was a distraction.
37:55I know the old hunting tunnels.
37:57They lead back under the court.
37:59No.
38:00Sorin's eyes hardened.
38:03Cain lowered his head.
38:05I won't ask you to trust me.
38:08But the main road is too slow.
38:10I pointed my dagger at Cain's throat.
38:12This is a trap.
38:13You die first.
38:17Cain nodded.
38:19I know.
38:20Then we ran into the dark.
38:23The hunting tunnels were narrow and cold.
38:25Cain led the way with a torch.
38:27I followed with two Stormfung warriors.
38:29At the split, he stopped.
38:31This way leads to the queen's inner hall.
38:33That way leads to the nursery wing.
38:34The nursery.
38:35We ran.
38:36The tunnel opened behind an old stone wall.
38:39The nursery corridor was filled with smoke.
38:41Dead guards lay on the floor.
38:43My mother's shawl was torn near the doorway.
38:45Then I heard my son cry.
38:46A vampire stood inside the nursery.
38:48My mother lay injured on the floor.
38:50The vampire smiled.
38:51Stormfung blood and southern royal blood in one child.
38:54The perfect hostage.
38:55Put my son down.
38:56He laughed.
38:57Then the queen moved behind him.
38:59She drove a silver hairpin into his neck.
39:01My son fell.
39:02I dove and caught him.
39:04Cain rushed in and killed the vampire.
39:07My son cried in my arms.
39:09My mother touched my shoulder.
39:10He's safe.
39:11The queen staggered.
39:13Cain caught her.
39:14She looked at him and whispered.
39:15You finally protected something that mattered.
39:18Then another scream rose outside.
39:19The vampires had breached the inner court.
39:22I handed my son to my mother.
39:24Take him to the altar chamber.
39:25Seal the doors.
39:26My mother looked at me.
39:28Then nodded.
39:29The queen stood despite her wound.
39:31I am still queen.
39:33Together, we entered the inner courtyard.
39:35Lady Marwen's daughter stood beside the vampire commander.
39:37Cain's new Luna.
39:39She smiled at Cain.
39:40You were supposed to stay locked away.
39:42Cain stared at her.
39:43You opened the gates.
39:44She lifted her chin.
39:45My mother promised me a throne.
39:47Instead, I got a deposed husband and a dying court.
39:49It was always you.
39:51Even after you left, everyone talked about Leora.
39:53I handed my cloak to Freya, who appeared beside me.
39:55Then stopped hiding in my shadow.
39:57The traitor Luna shifted and lunged.
39:59Freya intercepted her.
40:01Steel flashed against claws.
40:03North wolves, protect the children.
40:06Hold the altar.
40:07Cain attacked the vampire commander.
40:09For once, he fought without pride.
40:12Only atonement.
40:13While he held the commander back, I saw the opening.
40:15I picked up the queen's silver spear and threw it straight through the vampire's heart.
40:20By dawn, the royal court was silent.
40:22The eastern pass held.
40:24Sorin returned before sunrise with my father and brother.
40:27Both wounded.
40:28Both alive.
40:29When Sorin saw me holding our son, he crossed the courtyard and pulled us into his arms.
40:34Lady Marwen's daughter was captured.
40:35Lady Marwen confessed before execution.
40:37The vampire letters were read before every northern chieflin.
40:40Stormflin was cleared before the accusation could ever be born.
40:43The Lycan king issued three decrees.
40:44Second, the South-North alliance would be sealed by blood oath.
40:47Third, Cain would be sent to the border quarry.
40:51The same quarry where he had once condemned me in my past life.
40:55When the guards came, Cain did not resist.
40:58He looked at me one last time.
41:00I know you won't forgive me.
41:02No.
41:03He nodded.
41:04Then his eyes moved to my son.
41:07Protect him becoming like me.
41:08Sorin's arm tightened around I.
41:10He has a father.
41:12He won't.
41:14I answered coldly.
41:16Cain lowered his head.
41:18The guards led him away.
41:19The North has lost an heir.
41:21The Lycan king looked at Sorin.
41:23No.
41:23The North has found something better.
41:24He took my hand and raised it before the court.
41:26A queen who knows what it costs to lose a kingdom.
41:29The northern wolves lowered their heads.
41:30One by one.
41:32To me.
41:32My son laughed in my arms, reaching toward the rising sun.
41:36In my past life, I died under the weight of stones.
41:39In this life, I came home carrying a crown, and this time, no one would take my family
41:45from me again.
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