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Short filmTranscript
00:02My three brothers destroyed me just to make our half-sister Vivian the next Luna.
00:08My eldest brother set his wolf upon me and tore half my face off. I was scarred for life.
00:12My second brother let rogues into our estate. They cut the tendons in my wrists.
00:16I'd never played the rune again. All my talent gone.
00:19My third brother slipped a drug into my drink and let his rogue friend mark me.
00:22My honor was ruined.
00:25Vivian took my place. She became the Luna.
00:28Once their wish was granted, my brothers finally remembered me.
00:31Lyra, listen. We'll make this right. We've got you. Always.
00:35I gripped the marriage contract from the crippled king's hand, voice steady.
00:38Don't. I don't need your apologies.
00:42I cut ties with my brothers in three days, then climbed into the wedding car without looking back.
00:47Later I heard my three brothers turn the whole territory upside down.
00:50They even posted a bounty just to bring me home.
00:52But what did it matter? We were strangers now.
00:54In the pack's wolf grounds, my eldest brother Cassius was personally training a wolf cub.
00:58He was the finest beast master in the Northern Territory.
01:00The royal pack came to him, but now he was stroking the cub's furry head.
01:04Mochi, you have to be a good girl, so one day you can protect Vivian better.
01:09Tears slid down behind my mask. They seeped into the wound on my face that hadn't healed yet.
01:15The pain cut deep. I'd always wanted a wolf cub of my own, but Cassius would always snap at me.
01:19He said spirit wolves were sacred. Only royals were worthy of them.
01:22Back then, I thought he was just following the rules, that he was protecting me from getting in trouble.
01:26Now I knew better. For someone he truly loved, he'd break any rule.
01:29Seven years ago, my mother died. My father brought home his mistress and her bastard daughter, Vivian.
01:34The brother who used to love me became a stranger overnight. His eyes only saw Vivian.
01:38He stopped seeing me, his real, blood-born sister.
01:40I walked over to Mochi. I lowered my head and stroked her soft little ears.
01:44Brother, do you remember? I always wanted a wolf cub too.
01:49Cassius looked at me. He scooped Mochi up and stepped back, eyes sharp.
01:52Liar. What are you trying to do? This is Vivian's mating gift. Don't even think about taking it.
01:58Honestly, his change toward me wasn't sudden.
02:00Seven years ago, the day Vivian first arrived, she came to my room in a fancy new dress, just to
02:05rub it in my face.
02:05I didn't even bother with her. I told my maid Rosie to send her out.
02:08She tore her own dress, slammed her head against the marble counter, then framed me.
02:12Cassius rushed in just in time to see her. Pitiful. Trembling. Perfect.
02:16She curled into his chest.
02:18Brother, Lyra said I'm a wild bastard. Said I don't deserve nice things. She had the maids stripped me-
02:25Cassius had always been stubborn. He only believed what his own eyes saw.
02:27He didn't listen to a single word from me. He slapped me hard across the face. After that, we became
02:32strangers.
02:33In his mind, I was the jealous shrew who wanted everything for herself.
02:36Seven years, nothing changed. All these years, I tried to prove my innocence.
02:39All I got back was disgust and cold stares. In his mind, every word out of my mouth was a
02:44lie.
02:44Now that I was about to leave, I let it go. You can't make someone love you back. I had
02:48one goal today.
02:49Sever the bond. Cassius scanned the blood renunciation. He scoffed.
02:52A pure-blooded daughter of this house, and you're this petty? Not half as graceful as Viviana.
02:59Having a sister like you is the greatest shame of my life.
03:05I touched the cold porcelain of my mask. I let out a bitter laugh.
03:09Having a brother like you is my shame too.
03:12Growing up, I'd always clung to him. I followed his every word. Even when his words clogged my face, I
03:16didn't accuse him.
03:17This was the first time in my life I'd ever spoken back. Cassius was pissed. He grabbed me by the
03:21throat. His eyes flashed gold.
03:22Liar! You brought this on yourself. When you set that cub on Viviana, you should have known this day would
03:29come.
03:30Suddenly, I remembered the summer I was eight. Vivian dragged me into the wolf grounds in secret.
03:35Said she just wanted to play. I knew it was dangerous. I begged her to leave, but she insisted on
03:39touching the newborn cub.
03:40The cub got spooked. It knocked her down. Its claws scratched her face.
03:43When Cassius arrived, she pointed at me. Said I'd ordered the cub to attack her. Cassius didn't ask. Didn't listen.
03:48He locked me in the wolf cage. Starved me for three days and three nights. The memory sat in my
03:53chest. I couldn't breathe.
03:54To leave this place faster, I forced the words out through the pain.
03:57Cassius, if you hate me so much, just sign the blood reduciation.
04:02That way, Vivian can be officially recognized as the rightful daughter.
04:07Good! He snapped.
04:08Someone as twisted as you doesn't deserve to be my sister.
04:12He took the pen from Rosie and scrawled his name. He threw the contract at my face. Cold laugh.
04:16Don't you dare regret this. Look at yourself. Who else would want you? Severed or not, you'll still end up
04:25crawling back to this estate. Eating our food. Wearing our clothes.
04:31I picked up the contract from the floor, folded it carefully, tucked it into my coat.
04:35Don't worry, Lord Cassius. Lyra has no intention of coming back.
04:39You're calling me Lord now?
04:40I stepped back.
04:42The bond is severed. Of course I should.
04:45Cassius shook with rage.
04:46He clenched his teeth.
04:48Fine. Be as proud as you want. Don't come crawling to me later.
04:51I wouldn't. In three days, I'd leave the Ashford estate. I'd never come back.
04:55Whether I regretted it or struggled to survive, it was no one's business but mine.
05:00The next day, I walked straight into my second brother, Damien's study.
05:04After father died, Damien took over as the most accomplished son.
05:06He inherited father's seat. He became the pack's CFO. He was steadier than Cassius. Colder.
05:11When I barged in, he didn't even glance up. He kept writing. His mouth offered a lazy, half-hearted greeting.
05:16How are your hands?
05:17I looked at my hands. The wounds had closed, but I'd never hold a brush again. I gave a bitter
05:22smile.
05:23Better. Thanks for leaving me with at least something, brother.
05:26He saw I wasn't crying or screaming. He smiled, satisfied.
05:29Now that's more like what you should be. A proper lady.
05:33Lyra, don't blame me. Viviana suffered so much as a child, she could never paint runes the way you used
05:38to.
05:39If we hadn't helped her this time, she'd have lost the Lycan prince. She'd have ended up with no one.
05:43I touched the moonflower rune hanging on his wall. The one I'd given him. My chest ached. A tear slipped
05:48out.
05:49And me, Damien. My engagement is destroyed too. What about me? Should I die alone?
05:56He saw my tears, but he thought I was demanding answers. His guilty look vanished. Annoyance took its place.
06:01Lyra, I'm trying to spare you. You and the Lycan prince, you know how that engagement really happened.
06:07Vivian saved him that night. You stole the moonstone pendant he left her. You tricked him into the wrong betrothal.
06:15This is what you owe her.
06:18The Lunar Eclipse Festival. When I was 10, I'd pulled a boy my age out of the river, half drowned,
06:23barely breathing.
06:24Before he passed out, he pressed a moonstone pendant into my hand. I had no idea he was the Lycan
06:27prince.
06:28Sneaking out to watch the festival, I tossed the pendant on my dresser without a thought.
06:31Vivian's mother came by a few days later. She saw the pendant. She had her people dig up the whole
06:35story.
06:36A few days later, she brought Vivian to my door, accusing me of theft.
06:39She stole Viviana's pendant!
06:41The mother and daughter got their story in first. They described the pendant, the night, every detail.
06:46My three brothers and father believed them. But when Lycan prince Theron came to formalize the betrothal, he didn't recognize
06:52the pendant.
06:52He closed his eyes, reached out, touched my hand, then said, firm as iron.
06:56That's right. Lady Lyra saved me. I'd know her hand anywhere.
07:00The prince's verdict didn't clear my name. If anything, it made my family hate me more. They were convinced I'd
07:05seduced him.
07:06That was when Damien gave up on me. He stood with Vivian for good. He clung to father's dying words.
07:10Help Vivian take back what's hers.
07:13Lyra, if you have a shred of decency, you'll wish her well and shut up about it.
07:17His voice yanked me back. I had no fight left. I nodded calmly.
07:20As you wish, my lord. I pulled the moonflower rune off the wall.
07:23This is the best work I've ever made. Let it be my mating gift to the Lycan prince and Vivian.
07:30You never liked it anyway, brother.
07:32A flicker crossed his eyes. Maybe regret. But pride wouldn't let him show it. He looked down. Cool as ever.
07:37Suit yourself. Just don't go bothering Vivian.
07:41I pulled out the blood renunciation. Spread it on his desk. Held out the pen. Sign it, my lord. And
07:48I swear, I'll never trouble Vivian again.
07:52His head snapped up. Are you threatening me? I answered calmly. Yes.
07:57He hesitated. Then snatched the pen. Signed. You said it yourself. Don't you dare go back on your word.
08:04I folded the contract. Took one last look at the document on his desk. His territory expansion plan.
08:10Lord Damien, pushing into the eastern border now is a mistake. The Wolf Spade Pack has three alphas there. You'll
08:17burn through your scouts in a month. Take the western flats first. They have no leadership. Settle the territory. Build
08:24the farms back up. That's the way.
08:26His eyes lit up. The corner of his mouth twitched up. He nodded.
08:29Laya. You're really good at strategy. Such a shame your heart is rotten. Stay with me. Be my advisor. It's
08:38the best way for you. Then, the blood renunciation, I'll just take it as a joke.
08:43Thank you, my lord. But my tongue would only annoy you. I won't speak out of turn anymore. Consider this
08:50my repaintment for all the years you sheltered me.
08:52Fine. I can wait. Once you've cooled down, we'll talk again.
08:56My brother, you won't have time to wait. In two days, we'll part ways. Forever.
09:02On the third day, I cornered my third brother Roman at the Crimson Howl. Of all three sons, Roman was
09:08the family disappointment. He spent every night at the nightclub. He ran with the worst crowd in town. Lazy, cruel,
09:14with too much money and too much time.
09:15The rogue who marked me was his closest friend, Lucian Vale, son of the Vale Pack. When Lucian saw me,
09:21his eyes lit up with that filthy gleam. He smirked.
09:24Well, well. If it isn't my little bride. What's the matter, sweetheart? Miss me? Shame about that face of yours.
09:34Otherwise, I'd have taken you home and kept you.
09:36Roman swirled his drink, watched the whole thing with a smirk. Didn't say a word. I knew the answer already,
09:42but I asked anyway.
09:45Roman, you let this scum mark me? Now you're going to watch him touch me, too?
09:49You're already Lucio's, aren't you? What's a little touch? I mean, it's not like you're a virgin, right? Maybe one
09:56day, when no one else wants you, you'll beg him to take you.
10:00Even the hostess couldn't stand it. Lord Roman, she's still your blood.
10:04I don't have a sister this rotten. My only sister is Vivian.
10:10The wound in my chest ripped open again. The pain stole my breath.
10:13When we were little, Roman loved me the most. I used to play tricks on him, tease him. He never
10:18got mad.
10:19Once, I hid a snake in his closet. He'd always been terrified of snakes. He nearly fainted.
10:24Sick in bed for three days, father and mother punished me, locked me in the cellar. Roman, burning with fever,
10:29dragged himself out of bed and begged for me.
10:31He got me out of trouble. I asked him why he didn't hate me. He said,
10:34You're my sister. Who else is gonna spoil you?
10:37After that, I never pranked him again. Every time we saw a snake, I'd step in front of him.
10:41Anyone who messes with my sister, I'll break their legs!
10:44His words still rang in my ears. But everything had changed. Maybe Roman never imagined the one who'd hurt me
10:49deepest would be him.
10:50The hostess looked away, sick to her stomach.
10:53Don't pity her. You don't know how rotten she is.
10:57Two years ago, she snuck a man into our estate. She wanted him to assault Vivian.
11:05Cassius and Damien had hated me for years. Roman was the only one who'd believed me.
11:09He wasn't as close as before, but in the big moments, he still took my side.
11:13That stopped two years ago. Vivian had been seeing some pack boy in secret.
11:16He had a smooth tongue. He convinced her to meet him in the back garden of our estate.
11:20If I hadn't caught them, Vivian would have lost it that night.
11:23But she didn't thank me. She turned on me in front of everyone.
11:26Said I invited the man. Said I set the whole thing up.
11:28The man, hating me for ruining his fun, swore the same. He said I'd snuck him in.
11:32Cassius and Damien, they believed it without hesitation. Only Roman froze.
11:37When he came back to himself, his eyes were red. He grabbed a knife and lunged at me.
11:41Lila! All these years I had your back, and you're a goddamn monster!
11:46Damien held him back. He was worried about the scandal. Otherwise, I'd be dead.
11:50But knowing what I know now, I wish I had died that night. Cleaner, that way.
11:54I had no more breath to waste explaining.
11:56You're right, brother. I'm the wicked sister who framed our half-blood.
12:01Sorry I embarrassed you.
12:05For your sake, my lord, I'll sign the blood rentiation myself.
12:09Roman froze, then snapped back, sneering.
12:11You think one piece of paper buys our forgiveness after everything you've done?
12:15I goaded him in front of the crowd.
12:17Or are you just sad to see me go, brother?
12:20Roman wouldn't lose face. He gritted his teeth, signed.
12:23Then he dragged me out of the crimson howl himself.
12:25Pull this stunt for the others if it makes you feel better.
12:28But don't try me again.
12:30Get back home.
12:32Stay there.
12:33We'll deal with you when I'm done.
12:35I smiled, tired.
12:37Roman, you always loved drinking yourself into oblivion, didn't you?
12:40When you sober up this time, I'll be gone.
12:42You won't have to look at me ever again.
12:44The next morning, I walked out the back gate alone.
12:46No goodbyes.
12:47I climbed into the black car waiting for me.
12:50I didn't look back.
12:51As we pulled away, I heard the estate erupt behind me.
12:54My lord, Lady Lyra is gone.
12:56What?
12:57For the first time, my three brothers looked panicked.
13:01Wedding night, I pushed Adrian's wheelchair into the courtyard.
13:03We sat under the stars.
13:04My lord, thank you for taking pity on me.
13:08For taking me in.
13:09I meant it.
13:10Without him, the world was wide.
13:11But I had nowhere to go.
13:12Adrian had always been a man of few words.
13:14He gave a quiet smile.
13:16It wasn't only pity.
13:18Look at me.
13:19Anyone who'd marry me only wants my power.
13:22You don't.
13:23I felt a stab of guilt.
13:25But I had a reason too.
13:27I know.
13:27You needed somewhere safe.
13:29A way out of that house.
13:31I really couldn't read him.
13:32Forget about my ruined honor and my scarred face.
13:34My reputation alone was enough.
13:36Anyone in Damien's council circle had heard I was a cruel, scheming woman.
13:39The kind who tormented her own half-sister.
13:41I was afraid of dragging him down.
13:42I didn't want to lie.
13:43My lord, the Luna and I have a private feud.
13:46If that worries you, I can leave tomorrow.
13:48Adrian patted my hand where it rested on his shoulder.
13:51His voice was steady.
13:52It's fine.
13:52The Lycan prince doesn't dare cross me.
13:54A Luna even less.
13:56Stay.
13:56As long as I'm here, no one will lay a hand on you.
13:59The rumor said the king's hand, Adrian Thorne, was unreadable.
14:02Cold.
14:02Brutal.
14:03People said he had no heart.
14:04But sitting next to him now, I didn't think that was true.
14:06I looked at him.
14:06Dark shirt.
14:07I thought maybe everyone had him wrong, so I gathered my courage.
14:09My lord, you hear everything that happens in this territory.
14:13You must know what they say about me.
14:15He looked at me with mild interest.
14:17Which one, my lady?
14:18Steating the wolf on your sister?
14:20Stealing the Lycan prince's heart?
14:22Hiring a man to ruin your sister's honor?
14:26I gave a small, bitter laugh.
14:28So you've heard them all.
14:30The truth is...
14:31He didn't let me finish.
14:33He pulled me down to sit beside him.
14:34Cut me off.
14:36You didn't do any of it, did you?
14:38I blinked.
14:40You believe me?
14:41Why wouldn't I?
14:43His eyes were clear.
14:44No doubt.
14:44No suspicion.
14:45I've seen who you really are.
14:47I searched my memory.
14:48I had no recollection of him at all.
14:49My lord, have we met before?
14:53He opened his palm.
14:54A dried apple slice sat in the center.
14:56Do you remember?
14:57Ten years ago.
14:58The wolf grounds.
14:59You saved a boy who was about to be eaten alive.
15:01You picked an apple off the tree to make him laugh.
15:02He came back to me then.
15:03I was six.
15:04I begged my father to take me to the wolf grounds.
15:06The beast master was father's old friend.
15:08We arrived just as he was ordering his men to drag a small boy toward the feral wolf cages.
15:13To feed them.
15:14I couldn't just watch him die.
15:15I ran in.
15:16I threw myself in front of him.
15:17I thought we'd both be torn apart.
15:18But the beast master pulled the wolves back.
15:20Out of respect for my father.
15:21I was scared he'd be killed the moment I left.
15:23So I begged my father to bring him home with us.
15:25But father wouldn't risk a friendship over some rogue boy.
15:28He refused.
15:28Wouldn't let him stay at our estate.
15:30The boy didn't want to make trouble for me.
15:31He slipped away one night.
15:32I never saw him again.
15:33And now, here he was.
15:34The most powerful man in the territory.
15:36The king's hand.
15:37Adrian's thumb traced over my hand.
15:39Anyone who'd risk her life for a stranger could never harm her own blood.
15:43I don't care what the rest of them think.
15:45I never believed-
15:46I'd been numb.
15:47But his words split me open.
15:48My chest hurt.
15:49A stranger believed me.
15:50My own brothers.
15:51The ones I grew up with.
15:52They branded me a monster.
15:53He saw me drift off.
15:54He squeezed my hand.
15:55My scouts just told me.
15:57Your three brothers have lost their minds.
15:59They're at each other's throats.
16:01Wanna come with me?
16:02Watch the show?
16:05As the king's hand, Adrian's eyes were everywhere.
16:07The Ashford estate was nothing to him.
16:09His men set us up in the south wing.
16:10From there, we could see and hear everything inside.
16:12Midnight.
16:13Cassius came back to the main hall first.
16:14He saw Damien and Roman returning empty-handed.
16:17His voice broke.
16:19Did you find her?
16:20Damien shook his head, defeated.
16:22Roman, the hot-headed one, slammed his glass down so hard it shattered.
16:25His eyes were bloodshot.
16:26You two stay home all day.
16:28How the hell did you lose her?
16:30Cassius was already on edge.
16:32He snapped.
16:32He slammed his glass down the table.
16:34And you, out drinking every night?
16:36When have you ever actually cared about her?
16:38Damien held his head.
16:39His patience mourned thin.
16:41Both of you, shut up.
16:43She's just missing, not dead.
16:45Why are you panicking?
16:46As long as she hasn't left the territory, we'll find her.
16:48Roman trusted Damien most.
16:50His voice cracked.
16:50Damien, don't tell me she really meant it.
16:53About the blood renication?
16:54Damien's brow tightened.
16:56Anger crept into his voice.
16:57Whether she meant it or not, she was wrong to do it.
16:59She wanted to destroy Viviana, and we still didn't throw her out.
17:03Now she pulls this?
17:04Such a spoiled rotten.
17:05When we find her, I'll lock her up myself.
17:08Cassius nodded along.
17:09Damien's right.
17:10Punish her later.
17:12Find her first.
17:15I watched it all through the crack in the door.
17:17I let out a soft, bitter laugh.
17:19You see, my lord?
17:20These are my blood brothers.
17:22The ones I grew up with.
17:23To them, Vivian is the kind one.
17:25The wronged one.
17:26And me?
17:27From start to finish, I've always been the wicked sister.
17:29They're not looking for me because they miss me.
17:31They just hate that I slipped out of their grip.
17:33Adrian smoothed the line between my brows.
17:36His voice was soft.
17:37Lyra, don't worry.
17:39I'm your husband now.
17:40Whatever they bring, we face it together.
17:42I didn't know what Adrian arranged.
17:43But the next night, while we were eating dinner, a servant rushed in.
17:46The Lycan prince was at the Ashford estate.
17:48He dragged Vivian with him.
17:49Adrian quietly led me out again.
17:51Time for another show.
17:52The Lycan prince sat at the head of the room.
17:54Vivian and the three Ashford brothers were on their knees in a row.
17:57Vivian was terrified, bowing again and again.
17:59Your highness, please, don't believe the rumors.
18:03I never hurt my sister.
18:05The three brothers exchanged blank looks, confused.
18:08Then pack guards dragged in two figures.
18:10Vivian's handmaid and a man.
18:11Vivian's face went white.
18:12The Lycan prince pointed at the maid.
18:14You first.
18:15Was it really Lady Lyra who tore Vivian's dress and pushed her down?
18:18Did she really set the wolf on her?
18:22The maid looked at Vivian, terrified.
18:24Her face flushed red.
18:25She wouldn't speak.
18:25The Lycan prince didn't rush.
18:27Don't look at her.
18:28She doesn't decide if you live.
18:30I do.
18:31She clung to her loyalty.
18:32It was Lady Lyra did.
18:34It had nothing to do with my mistress.
18:36Good.
18:36She has no family.
18:37Her death changes nothing but you.
18:39Lying to me is lying to the Lycan king himself.
18:41And that, your whole bloodline pays.
18:44Think carefully before you answer.
18:45That man and Vivian had only been a fling.
18:48He wasn't dying for her.
18:49He didn't even hesitate.
18:50Your Highness, the truth is, it was Vivian who lured me to the estate.
18:53She was the one with feelings for me.
18:54Lady Lyra had nothing to do with it.
18:55She just happened to walk in.
18:56She cursed me out.
18:57I framed her out of spite.
18:58The maid saw there was no hiding it.
19:00She came to save herself.
19:01Your Highness, I had no choice.
19:03The Luna was my mistress.
19:04I had to lie for her.
19:05She did everything.
19:06The Luna framed the Lady Lyra.
19:08Lady Lyra never tore the dress.
19:10She never set the cub on anyone.
19:12The Luna just hated that Lady Lyra was pure blooded.
19:14She wanted to take everything from her.
19:19Vivian snapped.
19:20Are you turning on me?
19:21What?
19:22I never hurt Lyra.
19:23You always trusted me, didn't you?
19:25It's Lyra.
19:26She seduced the Lycan prince.
19:27She made him do this.
19:28You know her tricks.
19:30She drugged him back the-
19:31Enough.
19:32Lady Lyra never used anything on me.
19:34I've always known.
19:35The girl who saved me was her.
19:36Your family ruined her.
19:37My father, the Lylocon king, made me consider this engagement only to save face.
19:40I thought you'd only lied about the rescue.
19:42That's why I tolerated you.
19:43If a certain someone hadn't tipped me off, I'd still be in the dark.
19:46With witnesses against her, Vivian's denial sounded weak and pathetic.
19:50Because of your blindness.
19:52Because you took her side.
19:54You destroyed your sister's life.
19:56If I were you, I'd do anything to find her.
19:58Anything to make it right.
20:01Cassius.
20:02Damien.
20:03We wronged her.
20:05Stupid girl.
20:06Why didn't you defend yourself?
20:08She did.
20:09We just refused to listen.
20:15I'm finding her.
20:17Wherever she is, I'm bringing her home.
20:20Me too.
20:21When we find her, she can hit me.
20:23Curse me.
20:24Whatever she wants.
20:26Get word out.
20:2850,000 cash for any tip on my sister.
20:31I'll pay whatever it takes if she comes home safe.
20:36Show's over.
20:37I've seen enough.
20:38Let's go home.
20:39They mean it this time.
20:40Do you want to see them?
20:41Hear them out?
20:42My lord.
20:43You orchestrated all this?
20:45Just to fix my broken family?
20:47No.
20:48I just didn't want you carrying regret.
20:52I'm not.
20:53The day they chose to believe Vivian, this was always going to be the end.
20:57A cracked mirror can't be made whole.
20:59Neither can people.
21:00I'd already decided.
21:01This would be my last visit to the Ashford estate.
21:03But fate has a sense of humor.
21:06Lyra?
21:10Where the hell have you been?
21:12You scared the hell out of me.
21:16You.
21:18Did you take my sister?
21:21Watch your mouth, Lord Roman.
21:23He's my husband.
21:25A cripple?
21:25You think you're good enough for my sister?
21:27Tell me.
21:28Did you force her into this?
21:30Lord Cassius.
21:31Lord Roman.
21:32You lost the right to call me sister a long time ago.
21:35The blood renation is signed.
21:37None of this is your business anymore.
21:38Lyra.
21:39Don't be scared.
21:40If he hurt you, just tell us we'll handle it.
21:42The ones who hurt me have always been you.
21:45My face.
21:46My hands.
21:46My honor.
21:47Tell me which one wasn't your doing.
21:49In this whole territory, you're the last people who get to play protector.
21:52Lyra.
21:53Stop being a child.
21:54Your brothers are doing this for your own good.
21:56Marrying a cripple?
21:57You'll ruin the rest of your life.
21:58Too much noise here.
21:59Let's go home.
22:00Whatever you say, my love.
22:02Lord Hand.
22:02My apologies.
22:03I didn't realize-
22:07Adrian's face was blank, but his eyes were arctic.
22:10And if it weren't me, what were you planning to do to the crip who took your sister?
22:14Damien was a born politician.
22:16He smiled instantly.
22:17A misunderstanding, my lord.
22:20If we'd known she was with you, we wouldn't have panicked.
22:22Since we're family now, please, stay for dinner.
22:26Let us brothers say a few words to our sister.
22:29Whatever my wife wants.
22:31I looked at the three of them, desperate, cornered.
22:33I knew them.
22:34They wouldn't let this go without saying their piece.
22:36So I nodded.
22:36Let's put this to rest.
22:38Once and for all.
22:39Dinner was painfully awkward.
22:40Adrian and I were the only ones laughing and talking.
22:42The three brothers sat stiff as boards.
22:45None of them touched their food.
22:46I looked at how uncomfortable they were and smiled.
22:48Eat.
22:49Please.
22:50Just like the old days.
22:51Don't be so stiff.
22:53The brothers thought I'd forgiven them.
22:54A small, hopeful smile crossed each of their faces.
22:57Then I dropped the next line.
22:58After all, this is our last family meal.
23:05Laya, we know we were wrong.
23:07Can you forgive us?
23:08Just one more chance?
23:10I set down my fork.
23:10If I forgave the three of you, would my honor come back?
23:13Roman opened his mouth.
23:14Closed it.
23:15Then forced out one weak, useless line.
23:17I'll spend the rest of my life making it up to you.
23:19I sighed.
23:20Shook my head.
23:21Lord Roman.
23:22You make it sound so easy.
23:24You think this is just a fit?
23:25That if you say sorry sweetly enough, I'll come running back into your arms?
23:28Lord Roman.
23:29Do you know?
23:30When those rumors first started, I wasn't even afraid.
23:32Because I trusted you.
23:34I thought you'd stand by me.
23:35Trust me.
23:36Protect me.
23:37But you didn't.
23:37The moment you chose Vivienne, we were done.
23:39Roman's eyes burned.
23:40He wanted to fight back.
23:42He didn't know how.
23:42Cassius saw Roman fail.
23:44He picked up the thread.
23:45Laya, we know you're hurt.
23:47But from the day you disappeared, we already knew we were wrong.
23:50A soft little spirit wolf cub trotted up to my feet.
23:52It bumped its head against my ankle.
23:54I crouched down.
23:55Stroked her ears.
23:56Cassius watched.
23:57The day you left, I gave her every toy you ever owned.
23:59Just so she'd know your scent.
24:01See?
24:02She knows you now.
24:04Lyra, didn't you always want a wolf cub of your own?
24:06Let me train her for you.
24:08Properly.
24:08The way you always wanted.
24:10Please.
24:13I looked at the little cub purring at my feet.
24:15My heart softened.
24:16A little.
24:17But I didn't move.
24:17Because I'd learned this lesson.
24:18Some things you want, you don't get when you need them.
24:21By the time they finally come, you don't want them anymore.
24:23Thank you, my lord.
24:24But I don't need her now.
24:26I used to love wolf cubs.
24:28But I've grown out of it.
24:29Don't push her on me.
24:30The cub has her own life.
24:32So do you.
24:33Damien got a bit annoyed seeing I wasn't listening at all.
24:35But he still held back his temper.
24:36Lyra, we've all said we're sorry.
24:39Don't be stubborn anymore.
24:40I looked at the gentleman, Damien.
24:41My whole life, no matter what I did, you always thought I was throwing a fit.
24:45When I defended myself, a fit.
24:47When I cleared my name, a fit.
24:48When my heart broke and I bled out, still a fit.
24:52A flicker of pain crossed his eyes.
24:53He shifted his tone.
24:54That's where I went wrong.
24:56I'm willing to change.
24:57He pulled out a fresh moonflower rune, slid it across the table.
25:00This is my apology.
25:01I didn't take it.
25:02I spoke calmly.
25:03Lord Damien, do you know why I gave you that painting?
25:06All those years ago.
25:08Because in my heart, you were like that moonflower.
25:11Noble.
25:11Honest.
25:12That painting you took from my study?
25:14I never sent it to Vivian.
25:16I burned it!
25:17Because it had a flaw.
25:19Just like you, Lord Damien.
25:22Once flawless to me.
25:24Now full of cracks.
25:28I finished my meal.
25:30I pushed Adrian's wheelchair toward the door.
25:31Damien called out one last time.
25:33Lyra.
25:33Please.
25:34Just one more chance.
25:36Father will be heartbroken.
25:37Wherever he is now.
25:38I didn't turn around.
25:39Father was just like you.
25:41He never trusted me.
25:42The only daughter in his heart was Vivian.
25:44He wouldn't be heartbroken for me.
25:46If anything, he'd celebrate that I'm finally gone.
25:48On the road home, Adrian and I rode in silence.
25:51I broke at first.
25:52Nothing you want to ask me?
25:54There is.
25:55Ask.
25:57I'll tell you anything.
25:58If I went after the Ashford brothers, would you blame me?
26:01No.
26:02PAC law is clear.
26:03Anyone who hurts the innocent should pay for it.
26:06Funny.
26:06The king's hand's wife.
26:08Nothing rules but the rules.
26:10He pulled me down into his lap.
26:11But to be honest, I'm not always the cold, untouchable man people whisper about.
26:16I have a selfish side, too.
26:18And right now, I really, really want to teach my in-laws a lesson.
26:23The Ashford brothers.
26:24That fake little Vivian.
26:26I'm not letting any of them off easy.
26:28The car rolled on through the night.
26:30I rested my head on his shoulder.
26:31For the first time in seven years, I felt safe.
26:33Outside, the moon rose full over the Northern Territory.
26:36A new chapter was beginning.
26:37Not for the Ashfords.
26:38For me.
26:41A week later, Adrian made his first move.
26:44Royal pack envoys arrived at the Ashford estate before dawn.
26:47I watched from Adrian's study, half a territory away.
26:49His scouts had been digging for months.
26:51My lord, what did they find?
26:53Adrian didn't look up from his report.
26:55Cassius has been selling royal pack pups on the side.
26:58For years.
26:59Training defective wolves and keeping the strong ones for himself.
27:01The royal pack found out an hour ago.
27:03By noon, the news was everywhere.
27:05Cassius was stripped of his Beastmaster title.
27:08The royal pack seized every wolf he'd ever trained.
27:10I watched everything in the crystal ball.
27:12The wolf grounds were chaos.
27:14Royal handlers leading wolves out by the dozen.
27:16Cassius stood in the middle of the field.
27:18Pale.
27:19Hands shaking.
27:20Stop!
27:21Stop!
27:22You can't take them!
27:23They're mine!
27:24By order of the king, step aside.
27:26Cassius turned.
27:27Spotted Mochi being led toward a transport cage.
27:30Mochi!
27:31Come here!
27:32Come here!
27:33Mochi roared, trying to break free from the cage.
27:35Cassius dropped to his knees.
27:36Please!
27:39Give her back to me!
27:40I only want her!
27:41But Mochi was ultimately taken away.
27:44They were all powerless to resist.
27:45Just as I had been all those years ago.
27:47The field emptied wolf by wolf.
27:49By dusk, there was nothing left.
27:50Cassius was still kneeling there.
27:52Alone.
27:53That night, Damien came pounding on the thorn estate gates.
27:56Adrian's men turned him away.
27:59Three days later, the pack council convened.
28:01Damien sat at the head of the Ashford section.
28:03Confident.
28:04Polished.
28:05He didn't know what was coming.
28:06Adrian rolled his wheelchair to the center of the chamber.
28:08Set a folder on the table.
28:10Lords of the council.
28:11Evidence of embezzlement.
28:13Inflated invoices.
28:15Bribes to border and officials.
28:17Three years of records.
28:18All under the seal of the Ashford CFO.
28:21That's a lie! I never-
28:22Lord Damien, the records are sealed with your own signet.
28:25The council can examine them.
28:27The council passed the folder around.
28:28One by one, their faces hardened.
28:30I sat in the visitors gallery.
28:32Watching.
28:32Damien turned.
28:34His eyes found mine.
28:35Lyra!
28:35Tell them!
28:36Tell them this isn't me!
28:38I'd heard that voice before.
28:39Seven years ago!
28:40The first time Vivian framed me.
28:42Damien!
28:43Tell them!
28:44Tell them this isn't me!
28:45Lyra, stop being a child.
28:47I looked at him for a long moment.
28:49Then I turned to Adrian.
28:51My lord.
28:52I'm tired.
28:53Take me home.
28:54Whatever you want.
28:56The council voted before sundown.
28:57Damien was stripped of the CFO position.
29:00All Ashford accounts seized.
29:01He was exiled to a border pack on the eastern frontier.
29:04As the guards let him out, he passed my seat.
29:06He stopped.
29:07You did this.
29:09No, Lord Damien.
29:10You did.
29:11Years ago.
29:12I just stopped saving you.
29:13He was dragged out.
29:14That night, the Lycan king's messenger arrived at the Thorn estate.
29:18The king requests an audience with Lady Lyra.
29:20Tomorrow afternoon.
29:21Adrian raised a brow.
29:23Looks like the throne noticed you.
29:27I spent the afternoon with the Lycan king.
29:29I don't remember what I said.
29:30Only that he listened.
29:31For four hours.
29:32By the time I left the throne room, the decree was already drafted.
29:35By order of the crown, Lady Lyra Thorne is appointed Pax CFO of the Northern Territory.
29:40Effective immediately.
29:42The news hit the territory by morning.
29:43I went from disgraced Ashford daughter to one of the most powerful women in the realm overnight.
29:47The crimson howl closed its doors to Roman that same day.
29:50Lucian Vale didn't return his calls.
29:52His friends.
29:53His crowd.
29:53His life.
29:54All gone.
29:54By the third day, Roman showed up at the Thorn estate gates.
29:57Lyra!
29:58Please let me see you.
30:00Lyra!
30:01Adrian's scouts moved to remove him.
30:02I stopped them.
30:03Let him stay.
30:04Don't open the gate.
30:05I watched from the window.
30:06Roman stood in the rain for the first day, calling my name.
30:09Second day.
30:10No food.
30:10No water.
30:11Still there.
30:12Lyra.
30:13I know I was wrong.
30:16But we're family.
30:17Third day.
30:18Lyra.
30:18Please.
30:19He was sobbing.
30:20Remember when I took the punishment for you?
30:23When I begged father not to lock you in the jeller?
30:26You owe me.
30:29Please.
30:30I closed my eyes.
30:31I stopped just inside the gate.
30:33Lyra.
30:36I knew you'd-
30:37Lord Roman.
30:38No.
30:38Roman Ashfields.
30:40He froze.
30:41You signed the blood refocation.
30:42We were never family.
30:44Don't come back.
30:45I turned and walked back inside.
30:49Vivian's trial happened the same week.
30:51Lycan Prince thereon presided.
30:52The chamber was packed.
30:53I sat next to Adrian in the front row.
30:55Her crimes were proven.
30:56The sentence was all that remained.
30:59Vivian.
30:59Formerly of House Ashford.
31:01By the authority of the crown, you are stripped of your lunar title.
31:05You are exiled to the Wolf's Bay Pack.
31:08Effective immediately.
31:09Vivian broke.
31:10She always broke easily.
31:12She crawled toward Theron.
31:14Your Highness.
31:15Please.
31:16I made a mistake.
31:18I'll do anything.
31:19Theron didn't even look at her.
31:20Take her away.
31:21Then she saw me.
31:23Lyra.
31:23Lyra.
31:24You have to help me.
31:25We're sisters.
31:26We grew up together.
31:27I looked at her face.
31:28Beautiful.
31:29Untouched.
31:30Unscarred.
31:30I said nothing.
31:31Pack guards dragged her out.
31:32As she passed Theron's seat, she shouted one last thing.
31:35I never loved you, your highness.
31:37The one I always wanted was Marcus.
31:39I'll find him.
31:40I'll be happy without you.
31:42The whole chamber went silent.
31:44Theron's face didn't move.
31:45Make a note.
31:46The prisoner just confessed to adultery against the crown.
31:49Add it to her file.
31:50That night, on the transport road to Wolf's Bay Pack territory, Vivian escaped.
31:54She's running to Marcus.
31:55Adrian said over dinner.
31:56The pack boy from her back garden days.
31:59And Marcus.
32:00Adrian smiled.
32:01He's been living in a border town.
32:03Drinking.
32:04Broke.
32:05Bitter.
32:06Two days later, the news came in.
32:08Vivian found Marcus in his rented room.
32:10Begged him to take her in.
32:11Threw herself at him.
32:12He laughed in her face.
32:14You?
32:15The disgraced Luna?
32:17You think I want you now?
32:19She didn't leave.
32:19She clung to him.
32:20He dragged her out to the cliffs above the river.
32:25You ruined my life.
32:27Now I'll ruin yours.
32:28Then he pushed her.
32:29Her body was never found.
32:31Marcus was arrested by Dawn.
32:35A month later, I went back to the Ashford estate.
32:37For the last time.
32:38The gates were rusted.
32:40The lawn was overgrown.
32:41All staff had left.
32:44Mochi.
32:46Mochi.
32:47Mochi.
32:49Let's get him.
32:55I stepped out of the car.
33:01Adrian's wheelchair rolled beside me.
33:11The one the Lichen Prince had pressed into my hand when I was ten.
33:14The one that started everything.
33:19The father said help Vivian take back what's hers.
33:22Help Vivian take back what's hers.
33:26He never said what was mine.
33:28Lyra.
33:29Take me to the back garden.
33:31There's something I need to show you.
33:33Tonight.
33:34Under the full moon.
33:35What is it?
33:37Just come.
33:41My lord.
33:42We're here.
33:43What did you want to show me?
33:45Step back Lyra.
33:46What?
33:46Step back.
33:48Adrian.
33:50How long?
33:51Three months.
33:51I've been recovering for three months.
33:53I wanted the first time I stood to be in front of you.
33:55Lyra.
33:56This was the first time I cried because something was good.
33:58I'd cried so many times in my life.
34:04Out of grief.
34:11Out of betrayal.
34:18Out of pain.
34:28I had a reason for not telling you.
34:30I wanted the Ashford's to think I was weak.
34:32To act bold.
34:32To dig their own graves.
34:33They did.
34:34You're a monster my lord.
34:35I'm your monster.
34:37Lyra Thorne.
34:37We were mated by contract.
34:39Now I'm asking for the bond.
34:40Mate me.
34:41Yes.
34:42Last time.
34:46The next morning I woke up sick.
34:48I made it to the bathroom before throwing up.
34:50What is it?
34:51I don't know.
34:52I just feel.
34:53Stay here.
34:54Don't move.
34:55He sent for the pack healer.
34:56I sat on the bed while she examined me.
34:58Adrian paced.
34:59The pack healer was smiling.
35:00My lord.
35:01Congratulations.
35:03Lady Lyra is with child.
35:04Adrian's face did something I'd never seen.
35:06He stared at the healer.
35:08Then he burst to me.
35:08Lifted me off the floor.
35:09Spun me around the room.
35:10Adrian.
35:12Put me down.
35:13I'll be sick again.
35:14He didn't put me down.
35:16He held me against his chest.
35:17His head against my hair.
35:18I felt him shaking.
35:20My lord.
35:21Give me a moment.
35:22Please.
35:23The unreadable, cold, brutal king's hand was crying.
35:26I never thought I'd have this.
35:28I touched his face.
35:30Neither did I.
35:32Six months later, the Thorn estate held its full moon ceremony.
35:35I stood next to Adrian on the eastern balcony.
35:38Below us, the pack gathered.
35:39Every alpha in the northern territory came to bow.
35:42Mochi sat at my feet.
35:43Full grown now.
35:44I looked out at the moon.
35:45I thought about the girl I used to be.
35:47Scarred.
35:48Broken.
35:48Crawling toward a marriage contract because she had nowhere else to go.
35:51She was gone now.
35:52A new chapter is beginning, not for the Ashfords.
35:57I smiled.
35:58For us.
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