- 2 days ago
I Married a Hound Prince
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Short filmTranscript
00:00The matriarch ordered me to marry a black hound.
00:02The whole room exploded with laughter.
00:04My eyes shot to the man I once loved, Crown Prince Killian.
00:08He was holding my sister's hand.
00:09My Luna will only ever be Fiona.
00:12They have no idea what black really is.
00:14That hound they chained me to is a handsome man.
00:16The true future Wolf King.
00:18At the court feast, the moon matriarch led a black hound up to me.
00:22Lyra, meet your future mate, the Black Prince.
00:25The entire court erupted in laughter.
00:27It's a hound.
00:28You expect me to bond with a hound?
00:31You dare disrespect the prince?
00:33I raised Black from a pup.
00:34He's like a son to me.
00:36You should be honored to bond with him.
00:37My gaze shot to Crown Prince Killian, the man I once loved.
00:41Before the war, he had sworn under the full moon that I would be his only Luna.
00:44Kilvan, so your oath meant nothing?
00:47That was a joke.
00:48The battlefield has aged you.
00:50You're not fit to stand beside me anymore.
00:52My future Luna will only ever be your sister Fiona.
00:54Fiona, ten years younger than me and beautiful.
00:56She lifted her chin, a triumphant smirk plastered on her face.
00:59Don't blame me, sister.
01:00You were gone too long.
01:01The prince can't wait forever.
01:03Without another word, I bent down and took the black hound's leash.
01:06I saw his eyes were crimson, a half-breed, bloodthirsty and doomed to a short life.
01:10As I ran a hand over his head,
01:12Tell me you're actually growing fond of a dog, Lyra.
01:14What do you want, Fiona?
01:15She gave me a once-over, her expression dripping with contempt.
01:19I know you're bitter, but just look at yourself.
01:21Did you really think you could hold onto the Crown Prince looking like that?
01:24I drew my longsword and pressed the tip to her throat.
01:27Are you finished?
01:28Fear flashed in her eyes, but she stumbled back, arrogance winning out.
01:32You wouldn't dare!
01:33This is the Wolf Royal Palette!
01:34God, you're just scut whore!
01:35Just like that whore of a mother who abandoned you!
01:38Shut your mouth.
01:40Don't you ever say her name again.
01:42With a twist of my wrist, I swung the heavy pommel of my sword.
01:45A scream tore from her throat.
01:47I know! I know!
01:49Blood gushed between her fingers.
01:51Her nose lay severed on the marble floor.
01:53You care so much about your beauty.
01:55Let's see how you fare without it.
01:57Killen dropped to Fiona's side as she sobbed, blood pouring through her fingers.
02:02What have you done?
02:03He roared.
02:04How could you do this to her?
02:05She's your sister!
02:06A slow, cold laugh was my only answer.
02:09Sister?
02:10Fiona had despised me since the day our father brought her home.
02:13She always got first pick of his gifts.
02:15The silks, the jewels, the delicate necklaces.
02:17She'd take everything, then toss me the cheapest.
02:20Frayne ribbon and sneer.
02:21This is all that a thing like you deserves.
02:24I don't recall having a sister.
02:27Certainly not one who'd steal my mate.
02:30Fiona clutched her ruined face, her squeaks echoing off the stone walls.
02:34Father told you to protect me!
02:36On his deathbed, our father had grabbed my hand, nearly breathless.
02:39Protect Fiona from me.
02:41I remember laughing as I ripped my hand from his grip.
02:43I leaned in close, my lips brushing his ear and whispered,
02:46You miss her that much?
02:47Don't worry.
02:48I'll make sure she joins you soon enough.
02:49You never paid any homage to my mother when she died.
02:52I kicked Fiona away from me, sending her sprawling.
02:54He asked, but I never agreed.
02:55Hilven cradled her, his golden wolf eyes blazing with a fury.
02:58You're a monster!
02:59I flicked Fiona's blood from my blade and leveled the point at his heart.
03:02And you?
03:03Care to test that theory?
03:04You?
03:04I let out a soft, humorless chuckle and sheathed my sword.
03:08Grasping the leash of black beside me, I turned my back on them both.
03:13I'm not a monster.
03:15I'm just done holding back.
03:18With the black hound in my carriage, I circled the capital, commanding minstrels to play.
03:23I wanted everyone in this city to see what the royal court had done.
03:26They demanded that I marry a black hound.
03:28Children ran after the carriage, their voices a cruel chant.
03:31Duchess Lyra is marrying a dog!
03:33A beta in the crowd smeared.
03:35That battle-scarred duchess?
03:37A dog's the best she can get!
03:39I vaulted from the carriage and gave him 50 lashes.
03:42Right there, in the street.
03:44There.
03:46Now you're worse than a dog.
03:47I'll never forget how they treated me.
03:49When I first joined the knight's order, the male alpha scorned me.
03:53A she-wolf has no place on the battlefield.
03:55Her only duty is to bear pups and warm her alpha's bed.
03:58I proved them all wrong.
03:59I am now the most powerful alpha in the entire kingdom.
04:02The night of the bonding ritual, I was back in my chambers.
04:05The black prince was leashed by the door, whining pitifully.
04:08I knocked on a secret panel in the wall.
04:10It slid open, and a powerful man emerged from the shadows.
04:13He had the same wild look, the same crimson eyes as the hound at the door.
04:17I stroked his head.
04:18Silas, you're no hound.
04:20His raw scent overwhelming me.
04:21His calloused fingertips traced a line down my throat.
04:24Lyra, hold me.
04:26I wrapped my arms around his back, pulling him closer.
04:30That was all the permission he needed.
04:32He became a storm of unrestrained passion, sweeping me from the table to the bed.
04:37It was pure, exhilarating bliss.
04:39I felt alive again.
04:40After that night, Silas held me like a wolf guarding treasure.
04:44Lyra, I like this.
04:46I lifted my head and kissed him.
04:48Then I rose from the bed and led him to the door.
04:51I pointed at the hound leashed outside, a slow smile spreading across my face.
04:56Silas, I got you a brother.
04:58Look at him.
04:59Don't you two match?
05:01Silas cried out, pure panic in his voice as tears streamed down his face.
05:05A brother?
05:06No!
05:07His arms became steel bands around me, crushing me to him.
05:10No, Lyra.
05:11You have me.
05:13Only me.
05:13I found Silas in the ashes of a battlefield.
05:16He was a weapon, forged by the Outlanders.
05:18They'd raised him in a cage with beasts, forcing him to kill or be killed every day.
05:23By the time I found him, the boy was gone.
05:25Only the killer remained.
05:27The battlefield was a graveyard.
05:28A boy, Silas, cacket in blood, stood silently among the corpses, his eyes completely hollow.
05:33Come back with me.
05:34I walked toward him, wrapped my arms around his broken body, and brought him back to the
05:38nights.
05:39No one ever knew he existed except my late father.
05:42I smiled, hugging Simus back gently.
05:45Simus, I've bonded with it.
05:47Bonded?
05:47It means I'm bound to it for life.
05:49I'll even have its children.
05:51His eyes flew wide in disbelief.
05:52Horror twisted his features as his gaze shot between me and the hound.
05:55No!
05:55It's a hound!
05:56Don't choose it!
05:57Choose me!
05:58I couldn't help but lean in and kiss him.
05:59I want to bond with you, Silas.
06:01But they won't let me.
06:02His face hardened into a vicious snarl.
06:04Who?
06:04I'll kill them.
06:05I smiled, pulling him into my arms as my eyes fell on the black hound.
06:08Don't worry.
06:08As long as you become black, you'll be my mate.
06:10I made Silas live and eat with the hound until he mirrored its every move.
06:15A month later, I rubbed the potion into the hound and led him back into the palace.
06:21Whispers followed me down the halls.
06:23Utterly shameless.
06:24To actually bed a dog.
06:26They say the whole manor can hear her at night.
06:28I ignored them all.
06:29My head held high.
06:31Then I saw Killian walking straight for me.
06:33He stopped.
06:33His face a mask of arrogance.
06:35Marquis Roman has returned.
06:37The Black Wolf Knights are no longer yours.
06:39He's taking command.
06:41Liar, stop fighting me.
06:42Submit.
06:42And I may still show you mercy.
06:44A bitter laugh escaped my lips, cutting him short.
06:46What's the matter?
06:47Your Luna is missing a nose.
06:49So suddenly you've remembered me?
06:50The blood from his face replaced by a flash of rage.
06:53Fiona's face is ruined because of you!
06:55You're right.
06:55I'm poison.
06:56So imagine what my child would be.
06:58A prince as pure as you should stay far, far away from my tainted blood.
07:03I swept past him and strode into the throne room.
07:05The moon matriarch sat perched on her throne.
07:07Marquis Roman standing vigil below.
07:09I placed a deliberate hand over my stomach and stepped forward.
07:12Matriarch, I'm carrying the Black Prince's child.
07:14Her regal composure crapped, her eyes widening in disbelief.
07:17Impossible!
07:17That thing is just a black hound!
07:19Killian stormed into the room.
07:21His golden iria is webbed with red.
07:23Tell me the truth.
07:24Whose bastard are you carrying?
07:26I stroked my belly.
07:27A serene smile playing on my lips as I glanced at the black hound.
07:30Why won't you believe me?
07:31This is the air of the Black Prince.
07:34With a roar of fury, Killian kicked the hound hard in the ribs.
07:36You're lying!
07:37The beast let out a painted howl, and its eyes flared a burning crimson.
07:40The potion had taken effect.
07:42It launched itself at Killian.
07:43A furious blur of teeth and claws tore a chunk of flesh from his cheek.
07:46Kill it!
07:47In a flash of silver, Roman's sword fell.
07:49The Black Prince's blood splattered across the hem of my gown.
07:52No, my prince!
07:53Tears streamed down my cheeks as I fell, pulling the hound's body into my arms.
07:55Lifting my head, my golden pupils locked on a Roman.
07:57You!
07:58You killed the prince!
08:00You killed my baby's father!
08:01The hound assaulted Prince Killian.
08:03For attacking royalty, its death was justified.
08:05Kneeling on the cold stone, I pulled Black's lifeless body into my arms.
08:08His blood soaked my gown as I felt the last of his warmth drain away.
08:11Lifting my head, I fixed my gaze on Roman, my eyes glinting like cold steel.
08:15My hand moved deliberately to my stomach.
08:16You murderer.
08:17You just made my child lose his father.
08:18Enough of this madness!
08:19It was just a hound!
08:20He was the mate you decreed for me.
08:22Have you forgotten calling him your own son?
08:23It hurt Killian, so it deserved to die!
08:26A slow shake of my head was my only answer.
08:28I gathered his body into my arms, stood, and walked.
08:32Warm blood trickled down my arms.
08:34No one dared stand in my way.
08:37Back in my territory, I stood dressed in morning black.
08:39His body lay in a simple wooden coffin before me.
08:42Take it to the cemetery.
08:43I will bury my mate, and all will bear witness.
08:46The funeral procession cut through the crowds.
08:48I rode alongside the coffin.
08:50The Black Wolf Knights a shadow at my back.
08:52It was time.
08:52As everyone walked, the wooden coffin suddenly jolted.
08:55A low groan of splintering wood echoed in the silence.
08:59The procession halted.
09:00Gasps of fear rippled through the crowd as my knights drew their swords.
09:04Crack!
09:05The lid of the coffin exploded outward.
09:07A figure sat bolt upright inside.
09:09His bare chest was rose in ragged breaths, and his crimson eyes burned like embers.
09:13The black hair, and a wild, untamed face like blacks.
09:16It was Simus.
09:17Lyra, I'm back.
09:19The crowd exploded.
09:21Some screamed, and some drew their swords.
09:24What the hell is that?
09:26It's a demon that possessed the beast!
09:29A knight's voice cut through the chaos.
09:30His sword already raised.
09:31Kill it!
09:32Before it can...
09:32I stood between Silas and the blades, my hand falling to the hilt of my sword.
09:37Who dares?
09:38Your grace, that demon crawled from a coffin.
09:40It's a foul spirit and must be destroyed.
09:42A low chuckle assabred my lips as I gently touched Simus's cheek.
09:46Look closer.
09:47He is my mate.
09:49The black prince returned from the dead, bathed him, and a low howl escaped his throat.
09:53His bones grew larger.
09:55Black fur erupted from his skin.
09:57In fangs curled past lips, Simus's human form melted away.
10:00Replaced by a colossal, jai-black wolf, he lifted his enormous head.
10:05His crimson eyes glaring down upon the crowd.
10:07A citizen's voice trembled.
10:10Moon goddess, preserve us.
10:13A black wolf.
10:16The ancient bloodline...
10:18Silas swiped a massive paw, and the raw power of a true wolf alpha crashed over the crowd.
10:23Some men's knees buckled.
10:24They collapsed to the ground.
10:26Another citizen shouted.
10:27Not a demon!
10:28It's the blood of the first wolves!
10:30The wolf god walks again!
10:32Knights dropped their swords with a clatter.
10:35One by one, the entire crowd fell to their knees.
10:38A knight's voice boomed.
10:39The living image of the first wolf!
10:41The true king has returned!
10:43Silas paddled to my side.
10:44He lowered his massive head, gently touching his nose to my forehead.
10:48He faced his kneeling subjects, his deep howl echoing powerfully across the entire kingdom.
10:52As one, they knelt in reverence.
10:54We held the new king!
10:56I watched it all unfold, a slow, triumphant smile touching my lips.
10:59They all thought they were burying Black, the pathetic hound from the kennels.
11:03But it was Silas I had sealed inside that coffin.
11:05They forced me to mate with a hound.
11:07So I made that hound a king.
11:09I rested my hand in Silas's thick fur and looked toward the distant wolf royal palace.
11:15Let's go.
11:16It's time to take back your throne.
11:20I shoved the great doors open and walked into the throne room.
11:23Simus at my side.
11:24The moon matriarch rose from her throne.
11:26Killen, his face still bruised, his golden eyes locked on the colossal wolf.
11:30What is that?
11:33I rested a hand on my stomach.
11:35Don't you recognize him?
11:36It's the Black Prince.
11:38Black.
11:39My mate.
11:40Impossible!
11:41That mongrel is dead!
11:42Roman killed him in person!
11:43A low growl rumbled from Silas's chest.
11:45The sheer force of the sound slammed into Killen, sending him stumbling back.
11:48Kilton gasped.
11:50That power.
11:51How?
11:52Roman's voice trembled.
11:54The first wolf.
11:55Can the rumors be true?
11:56The black hound transformed under the moonlight.
11:58The moon matriarch snapped.
12:00Absurd!
12:01It's just another of this wench's pathetic lies!
12:04Silas stalled forward.
12:05With every step he took, the courtier scrambled back.
12:09He lifted his head, his crimson wolf eyes sweeping over every person in the room.
12:13One by one, they collapsed to their knees.
12:16Killen roared.
12:17What are you doing?
12:19Get up!
12:19It's just a...
12:20He never finished.
12:21A single swipe from Simus's claw sent him flying into a stone pillar.
12:25Killen coughed up blood.
12:26Lyra, you're in league with an outsider.
12:29This monster isn't the first wolf.
12:31He's tricked you all!
12:32I am the true king, your future alpha!
12:34He looked desperately at the others.
12:35You call him an outsider?
12:37I ran a hand through Silas's fur, a slow smile spreading across my face.
12:41He transformed in front of the entire city, under the light of the full moon.
12:46Tell me, what kind of outsider can withstand the goddess's blessing?
12:50My gaze shifted to the moon matriarch, who had fallen back onto her throne.
12:54And I have you to thank for it, really.
12:55You gave me black.
12:57Her face was a mask of pale horror.
12:59I gave the order.
13:02And had them both thrown out.
13:04I took my place on the throne beside Silas as the coronation began.
13:08The throne room doors burst open.
13:10Fiona stood there, her face a wreck of bandages.
13:13All her delicate beauty replaced by a haggard desperation.
13:17She threw herself at the foot of the throne, her eyes fixed on Silas.
13:20It should be me at your side. I am the most highborn she-wolf in this entire kingdom.
13:25My coat is finer, my face more beautiful. I'm ten years younger than her.
13:29Silas's lip curled in disgust as he pulled Y into his arms.
13:32My Luna is Lyra, and only Lyra.
13:35Fiona recoiled, her amber eyes burning with a lifetime of hatred for me.
13:40It's always been you! Since we were pups, everything has been yours.
13:44The Dukity, the Black Wolf Knights, and now the Luna's throne!
13:48You've stolen everything that should have been mine!
13:50I stared at her, my face a mask of ice.
13:53Are you finished?
13:55While I bled on the training grounds, you danced at court.
13:58While I fought for our lands in the north, you were whispering in my betrothed's ear.
14:02And you think you have the right to take my place?
14:05To be Luna?
14:07She screamed.
14:08No! You're just a sword-swinging maniac!
14:12Even father said it!
14:14Just like your brutally mother, born to be a tool, a slave to serve the family's ambitions!
14:19And?
14:20Our father is dead, and unlike him, my dear sister, I don't have a soft spot for a pretty face.
14:26Guards!
14:27Drag her out, they seized her.
14:28She struggled.
14:30Her screams cut short as the great doors slammed shut, silencing everything.
14:34In the Duke's domain, training yard, I was just a pup, swinging a wooden sword, soaked in sweat.
14:40My father, Duke Selvin, stood watching, a permanent scowl on his face.
14:43Enough!
14:43A she-wolf has no use for such things.
14:46But I beat all the other pups, even the males!
14:49And what of it?
14:49You are female.
14:50Your duty is to be gentle, to serve not to fight.
14:53His words were like stones.
14:54You will never be an alpha.
14:56You will never be a knight.
14:57I couldn't understand.
14:58I was the strongest.
14:59Why did he refuse to see it?
15:01Hot tears blurred my vision.
15:02I dropped the sword and fled.
15:04In the Duke's domain, Main Hall.
15:05I was ten, and my father brought another she-wolf into our home.
15:09She was beautiful, all silver fur and amber eyes.
15:12And she was pregnant.
15:13My father wrapped an arm around her, announcing to the entire hall.
15:16She carries my heir.
15:17She is to live here from this day forward.
15:19The child she carried was Fiona.
15:22My eyes shot to my mother.
15:23All the color had drained from her face.
15:25She looked like she would shatter into a million pieces.
15:29Selvin, you've broken our sacred bond.
15:32It wasn't long before my mother's spirit broke, and she took to her bed.
15:36I never left her side.
15:37My small face streaked with tears.
15:38Mom, does he not want us anymore?
15:41Her frail hand stroked my hair.
15:43Oh, my sweet Lyra.
15:44It isn't that he doesn't want you.
15:46He's terrified of you.
15:47Of me?
15:48He's terrified of a she-wolf who is his equal.
15:51Terrified you'll grow too powerful for him to control.
15:54Terrified you'll prove that a she-wolf doesn't need an alpha's permission to rule.
15:58What do I do?
15:59Fight for it.
16:00Take it.
16:01No one will ever hand you anything in this life.
16:03Promise me, Lyra.
16:05Promise me you will become an alpha that no male dares to challenge.
16:10Her grip on my hand tightened, then went limp, and just like that, she was gone.
16:14The coronation ceremony pressed on.
16:17Silas' hand covered mine, rough and warm.
16:19He leaned in, his crimson wolf eyes filled with concern.
16:22Lyra, what's on your mind?
16:25My mother.
16:26I leaned into his embrace and looked toward the horizon.
16:28My mother's voice echoed in my mind.
16:30Mom, do you see me now?
16:31I didn't become the submissive female they wanted.
16:34I became a sword.
16:35I became the Luna.
16:36Marquis Roman stepped forward, dropping to one knee before the throne.
16:40Your majesty, I struck down the Black Prince in public, a grave insult to the blood of an alpha.
16:44I am here to accept my punishment.
16:47I fixed my gaze on him.
16:48Roman, the Black Wolf Knights, do you still want them?
16:52He lowered his head even further.
16:54The Black Wolf Knights will always be your blade, my Luna.
16:57I am merely the rust on that blade, unworthy of ever wielding it.
17:01I nodded, then beckoned a guard forward.
17:03The Moon Matriarch and Killian, report.
17:06Confined to the North Tower as you commanded.
17:08Guard said.
17:09They will never set foot outside it again.
17:11Good.
17:12I want them to watch this palace change hands.
17:15I turned to the court.
17:17Send the news to the entire city.
17:19In three days, we will hold a festival for the Moon Goddess, celebrating the rise of our new king.
17:25I wanted everyone to witness our victory.
17:28Silas dismissed the court.
17:30Soon the Great Hall was empty, leaving just the two of us.
17:33He nuzzled the back of my neck, his warm breath ghosting across my skin.
17:37Tired.
17:38He murmured, his voice low and rough.
17:40You will stand with me, and together we rule these lands.
17:43He lowered his head, his fangs grazing my neck, leaving his mark.
17:47As you command, my Luna.
17:48I reached up, my fingertips tracing the rugged line of his jaw.
17:52Silas, from this day forward you will never hide in the shadows again.
17:57No one will ever dare look down on you.
17:59At the festival for the Moon Goddess, it was time for our binding ceremony.
18:03The high priest held a silver chaplice between us.
18:06By blood, a vow.
18:08By the moon, a witness.
18:10Drink from this chaplice, and be bound for all eternity, mate to mate.
18:14Silas sliced his palm, letting his blood fall into the silver.
18:18I took the blade and did the same.
18:20Our lifeblood swirled together.
18:23He drank half, then pressed the chaplice to my lips.
18:26I tilted my head back and drained the rest.
18:28In one swift move, Silas swept me into his arms and kissed me.
18:34Lyra, I love you.
18:36Pack of wolves cheered.
18:37I smiled in his arms.
18:39Later, in the quiet of our chambers, he laid me down on the furs of our bed.
18:43His nose traced a path from my forehead, down my nose, to my lips.
18:48His voice was a low growl.
18:50Stay with me forever, Lyra.
19:05Afterward, he wrapped himself around me, holding me tight.
19:08I laid there with my eyes open, tracing idle patterns on the back of his hand.
19:12And in that moment, I believed in forever love.
19:15After becoming Luna, my coat began to regain its sheen.
19:19The handymators couldn't stop gushing about how my beauty was returning.
19:23As I asked Simus about it, he just rested his chin on my shoulder.
19:27You've always been beautiful.
19:29Turned my head to kiss the corner of his throat.
19:32Who taught you to say things like that?
19:33My Silas doesn't usually use such sweet words.
19:36I teased, raising an eyebrow.
19:38He captured my lips in a deep kiss.
19:41You did.
19:42You taught me everything.
19:44Later that afternoon, we were in the gardens.
19:47I was resting against the trunk of a willow tree.
19:50Silas sat beside me, a goofy smile on his face as he twisted a lock of my hair.
19:55He leaned down, his lips brushing softly against my eyelid.
19:59My eyes fluttered open, a smile playing on my lips.
20:03Stealing kisses now?
20:04Not stealing.
20:06This is me being very obvious about it.
20:08He pulled me into his arms.
20:10Burying his face in my neck.
20:11His warm breath tickled my skin.
20:14That tickles.
20:15You're very beautiful.
20:17I don't want anyone else to see you.
20:19What are you gonna do?
20:21Nothing.
20:21I'm the Wolf King.
20:22I'll just make them shut their eyes.
20:24My little Silas has gotten so bossy.
20:27His arms tightened around me, his body a shield.
20:30I'll always be yours.
20:32At the feast, a young duke from the Borderlands couldn't keep his eyes off me.
20:36His name was Darion.
20:37A new title.
20:38A lot of arrogance.
20:39He swaggered over, wine glass in hand, and presented a moonstone brooch for the whole court
20:44to see.
20:45My Luna.
20:46A moonstone from my own quarries.
20:48Its light is the only thing I've seen that can ravel your eyes.
20:53The great hall went quiet.
20:55Every single gaze was locked on us.
20:57I didn't take the brooch.
20:58I just smiled.
21:00The stone is lovely, but I don't wear other people's things.
21:02The smile on his face cracked for just a second before he retreated into the crowd.
21:08I turned my head to look at Silas beside me.
21:12The knuckles of the hand gripping his goblet were bone white.
21:17Later that night, in the darkness of our chambers, Silas prized me to the wall.
21:22His canines grazed my ear.
21:24His voice a low, ragged groal.
21:26He stared at you all night.
21:29A smirk played on my lips.
21:32Jealous?
21:35You're mine.
21:37No one else gets to look.
21:41He carried me to the bed, his touch more demanding than ever before.
21:46I clung to his shoulders, laughing softly into his ear.
21:52You were never this rough before.
21:54Before I was your warrior.
21:58Now, I am your king.
22:02He bit down on my neck, staking his claim.
22:07My laughter seemed to provoke him further.
22:10He drove into me harder, trying to silence his jealousy.
22:16After, he collapsed into my arms, his nose brushing against my collarbone.
22:22You won't look at him, will you?
22:26Never.
22:29I said, stroking his dark hair and kissing and kiss brow.
22:40The next morning, I found Simus on the training fields.
22:44Simus had summoned every noble male who'd offered me a gift at the feast.
22:49The seven or eight of them were lined up.
22:51Dorian right at the front, his face a dark mask.
22:54So, you all had gifts for my Luna?
22:59Come at me, all at once.
23:01He shrugged off his tunic, bare to the waist.
23:04Dorian was the first to be sent flowing.
23:06The second was kicked off his feet, before he could even draw his blade.
23:10A third, then a fourth, one after another.
23:13They were slammed into the dirt.
23:15The crowd of nobles watching from the sidelines began to whisper.
23:19King is too harsh.
23:20This is a warning.
23:22Silas threw his final opponent to the ground, his crimson eyes as cold as northern ice.
23:27Anyone else want to offer a gift?
23:29Total silence.
23:30The crowd parted for me, as I walked onto the grounds.
23:35His back was turned, shoulders still heaving from the fight.
23:38A cold, raw fury still clung to him.
23:41I heard you were bullying them.
23:42I called out.
23:44He turned.
23:45The ice in his crimson eyes vanished.
23:48His lips curved into a smile that only I had ever seen.
23:52Not bullying, just a lesson about not coveting what isn't yours.
23:58He walked over, and, as if no one else was around, took my hand.
24:02In his crimson eyes, there wasn't a trace of cold left.
24:06At night, white mist ghosted off the hot water of the bathing pool.
24:10I leaned against the stone edge, eyes closed, until soft footsteps broke the silence.
24:16Come here.
24:16Apply the bomb.
24:17I heard the clay jar shift.
24:19A finger scooped some out, then paused, before a rough, calloused touch met my back.
24:23It wasn't a maid's hand.
24:25The fingers traced down my spine, impossibly gentle, as if I might shatter.
24:28I opened my eyes and turned my head.
24:30Silas knelt by the pool, sleeves rolled to his elbows.
24:33His head was bowed, the tips of his ears glowing red.
24:36Those crimson eyes stayed locked on his own fingers, refusing to look anywhere else.
24:41What are you doing here?
24:42The handmaid was waiting.
24:43I sent her away.
24:45His fingers froze at the curve of my waist.
24:47A single drop of water slid down my spine.
24:50His eyes tracked its path, and I saw his throat work as he swallowed hard.
24:54I twisted around, lashed onto his wrist, and dragged him into the water.
24:58Water exploded over the stone tiles.
24:59He broke the surface.
25:01Gasping, dark hair plastered to his forehead.
25:03In the steam, his crimson eyes had a wet, luminous glow.
25:06His gaze found mine.
25:07My legs were already wrapped around his waist.
25:09The soaked fabric of his tuchnic was a useless barrier between our bodies.
25:13He lowered his head, his lips brushing against my shoulder.
25:16They were hotter than the water.
25:17A searing heat.
25:19He traced a path up my collarbone, his canines gently grazing the tip of my ear.
25:23My fingers tangled in the wet hair at the nape of his neck.
25:26A breathless laugh escaped me.
25:28You haven't finished with the bomb.
25:32That can wait.
25:33He pressed me back against the cool stone wall, sending ripples pulsing through the water.
25:37The clay jar tipped, forgotten.
25:39Its contents bled slowly into the pool.
25:42We let it sink.
25:43The afternoon sun warmed the stones of the garden.
25:46I was drinking a cup of tea with the noble ladies.
25:48A sharp pain seized my chest.
25:50On the back of my neck, my mating mark began to burn.
25:53Something was wrong with Silas.
25:55I dropped my cup and walked out.
25:56Silas was working when the door to his office swung open.
25:59A woman stood in the doorway.
26:01A perfect copy of me.
26:03Her silver-gray hair fell over her shoulders.
26:05And she smiled, silhouetted against the light.
26:08Silas didn't even look up.
26:09You're back.
26:10She hummed in agreement, her steps silent, as she moved toward him.
26:14Her fingertips trailed along the edge of his desk, circling around behind his chair.
26:19His hand shed out, locking onto her wrist.
26:23Who are you?
26:24She said,
26:25What are you talking about, my king?
26:26It's me, Lyra.
26:28No, you're not.
26:29His fingers tightened, the bond mark searing his chest.
26:33The woman before him was my mirror image, every line and curve perfect.
26:37But the bond never lied.
26:38Moonlight streamed through the high window.
26:40I threw the door open.
26:41A wave of roar power slammed from my palm, blasting her across the room.
26:45She collapsed in a heap.
26:46The illusion shattered, her silver-gray fur fading to a dull white.
26:48The jagged scar on her nose twisted her face into a snar.
26:51It was Fiona.
26:52She scrambled backward.
26:53How did you know?
26:54The glamoury was perfect!
26:56You can wear her face.
26:59But our bond knows you're not her.
27:01My voice was low and dangerous.
27:06Who helped you get back?
27:11You think I'm going to tell you?
27:13Fiona clutched her ruined face, her amber eyes blazing with hatred between her fingers.
27:17You took everything from me!
27:19Killing my father!
27:21Even this face!
27:22You're everything?
27:23I knelt, grabbing her chin and forcing her to look at me.
27:28I gave you a chance.
27:30You were free from this palace.
27:31Why the hell would you come back?
27:33Now tell me, who gave you the glamours?
27:37Just kill me!
27:38If you have the guts, do it!
27:41Kill you?
27:42You're far more useful to me alive.
27:44I flicked my hand toward the door, and the guards moved in, hauling her to her feet.
27:48You'll regret this!
27:50She screamed as they dragged her away.
27:52Killen isn't dead!
27:53The Outlanders are coming back!
27:55They'll tear you apart!
27:56Her voice echoed down the hall, then vanished into silence.
28:00Simus was at my side in an instant, his hand finding mine.
28:03His palm was still warm from where he'd clenched his fist.
28:06What she said about Killian.
28:08His voice was low with worry.
28:10I know.
28:11My gaze shifted to the window.
28:12Toward the border, the clouds hung heavy, and an unnatural darkness was swallowing the
28:17edge of the moonlight.
28:18This was far from over.
28:20Dusk settled over our chambers.
28:22Silas stood at the window, his back to me.
28:25He hadn't said a word since they'd dragged Fiona away.
28:28I asked,
28:28What are you thinking?
28:30Kilton's alive.
28:31He's with the Outlanders, and he's plotting something.
28:33He turned, and his crimson eyes locked onto mine.
28:36You knew he was alive.
28:37Longer than you have.
28:38They found Killian's body in the North Tower right after his house arrestment began.
28:42I never bought it.
28:43He wouldn't go down that easily.
28:44Why wouldn't you tell me?
28:46Because then you'd do exactly this.
28:48I said, stand by the window and brood.
28:51I reached up and cupped his face.
28:53He immediately leaned into my touch, nuzzling my palm.
28:57Are you afraid?
28:58I asked softly.
29:00I'm afraid for you.
29:02He pulled me into his arms, his chin resting on my head.
29:05I melted against his chest, listening to the steady beat of his heart.
29:09Whatever they're planning, I won't let them win.
29:11I tilted his head down and kissed him.
29:15This wolf kingdom, and you.
29:18No one is taking either from me.
29:21Another female went flying out of the king's study.
29:24Did the king just throw out another noble's female?
29:26What do you think?
29:27That's the third one this week.
29:29Damn.
29:30The first guard said, a hint of awe in his voice.
29:34He really only has eyes for the Luna.
29:36Won't let anyone else even breathe in his direction.
29:39Inside, Silas was rubbing his temples.
29:41He beckoned his second in the command.
29:43Send out a decree.
29:45From this day forward, any man who sends a female to my door.
29:48He paused, a dangerous glint in his eye.
29:50I'll send ten mails to his mate.
29:52Ten.
29:53Mark my words.
29:54That night, I was shaking with laughter in our chambers.
29:58I can't believe you said that.
30:01Sending ten men to their mates?
30:03When did you become so funny?
30:05He rumbled, his voice low.
30:07You taught me.
30:08When did I ever teach you that?
30:09You taught me to stop tolerating their games.
30:12I wiped a tear of laughter from my eye and looked up at him.
30:15So all those females they paraded in front of you?
30:18Not a single one caught your eye?
30:20He pulled me into his arms, his chin resting on my head.
30:23It's only you.
30:25I don't want anyone else.
30:26I pulled his face down and kissed him.
30:32You said it.
30:33Don't you dare take it back.
30:35He swore.
30:36His hand slid down, coming to rest on the gentle curve of my stomach.
30:41I am your mate.
30:43Only yours.
30:45A rumor was slithering through the palace halls.
30:47One handymaid said,
30:48Did you hear?
30:50The Luna once made a vow to Prince Killian.
30:52Another handymaid yanked the handymaid's sleeve.
30:54Are you trying to get yourself killed?
30:56The king just made an example of the last few who spread that poison.
31:00The first handymaid went pale, and they scurried away, without another word.
31:05In our chambers, Silas buried his head in my lack.
31:07His arms wrapped tight around my waist.
31:09His voice came out muffled.
31:10If it weren't for what I was, for the Moon Muzz decree, would you have waited for him?
31:15I ran a hand gently down his back.
31:18Killian has always been shallow.
31:19I hadn't been to war, yet.
31:21I was young, beautiful.
31:24I paused.
31:24But he swore an oath to you under the full moon.
31:27To get the support of House Selvin, I said, my voice flat.
31:30A cold smile touched my lips.
31:32And the moment he laid eyes on my prettier sister, Fiona, he tossed me aside.
31:36Silas was quiet for a long moment.
31:38He was a fool to lose you.
31:39I chuckled softly.
31:41Of course he was.
31:42That's why the one beside me now.
31:44I lifted his face from my lap, locking my gaze with his rims and wolf eyes.
31:47Is you.
31:48My birthday was a month away, and Simus was already in a frenzy.
31:53He'd summoned a legion of tailors, turning the West Wing into a mountain of silk and velvet.
31:59I slipped into another gown and turned.
32:01What about this one?
32:02Beautiful.
32:03I changed again.
32:04And this one?
32:06Stunning.
32:07I laughed.
32:08You think everything looks good.
32:10Because you are beautiful.
32:12You look stunning in anything.
32:14You're just flattering me.
32:16I'm telling the truth.
32:17His eyes scanned the racks of gowns behind me, then snagged on one with a plunging neckline.
32:22Not that one.
32:23A frown cruised his brow as he pointed.
32:26Why not?
32:27I arched in highbrow.
32:29It shows too much.
32:30He rose from his chair and came up behind me, wrapping his arms around my waist.
32:34His face harried into the kirk of my neck, his voice a low rumber against my skin.
32:38I can't stand the thought of other males seeing you.
32:41So radiant.
32:42The door creaked open.
32:44It was his adjuant.
32:45Your majesty.
32:46The elders request an audience.
32:50Silas pressed a kiss to my cheek.
32:53I have to go.
32:54Wait for me.
32:55I turned just enough to kiss the corner of his mouth.
32:59Go.
33:01He released me and followed the adjikri out, the door clicking shut behind them.
33:06I turned out to the door.
33:36我们娘俩哪怕多用了一根树枝
33:37都要被奶奶毒打一顿再骂上三天三夜
33:39我想帮忙被娘撵到一边去
33:41河边冷 奶奶去那边玩
33:43那边能晒着太阳 暖和点
33:44我们娘俩穿得薄 大冬天只有中午头
33:47晒晒太阳才能暖和点 衣裳洗完了
33:48回到家里 奶奶和祖老门已经等着急了
33:51他们着急 却没去河边找
33:53奶奶是要等我娘把今天的衣裳洗完
33:54洗这么慢 又不知道上哪儿浪荡去了
33:57真是个贱蹄子 永安不在
33:59心就不知道也到哪儿去了
34:00他一如寄网鼠咯 丢了个包袱过来
34:03官爷送了消息来 永安被你客死了
34:05自打取了你 玩就没遇上好事
34:07现在永安没了 你也赶紧嫁出去
34:10别留在我们老赵家祸害人
34:11那包裹很小 是我娘的两件破衣服
34:13奶奶这么迫不及待 似乎也没为我爹的死伤心什么
34:16不知道的还以为死的是村里的老狗
34:18我娘没说什么 只是紧紧拉着我的手
34:20娘 能让我把奶奶带走吗
34:22娘也没多少伤心 只担心我
34:24我奶奶横眉立幕
34:25看看那猎户愿不愿意给银子 这么大的丫头 要是卖给人牙子 也能换十两银子
34:30我娘拉着我的手更紧了 我们都知道 等娘一走 奶奶就会把我卖掉 绝不会多养一天
34:35我娘背着包裹 紧紧牵着我的手 被奶奶和祖老门撵到了张猎户家
34:39他正在家里磨刀 霍霍声不断 断了的一条腿不能弯曲 只能支在一边
34:43看起来姿势十分怪异
34:45他脸上一个伤疤从左眼角下方一直横到右嘴角上方 仿佛把脸分成了两半 更显得凶狠
34:49我往娘身后躲了躲 在奶奶家跟在这里 区别似乎也没多大
34:53你们强行把这女人卖给我 二十两银子已经太过分 别的就别多想了
34:57他看起来似乎并不乐意娶我娘 更别说加上我这个脱油瓶了
35:00我家永安当年也算是救过你 现在她没了 把这件货交给你 你也该感恩戴德
35:05这件蹄子现在就向着你 要把这死丫头带给你当女儿 你也是有福气 一下子有妻有女
35:11我也不多要 你再给个十两银就行
35:14很多人家一年也才赚二三两银子 十两银子能买一亩良田 是很多银子
35:18我根本不值这么多银子 张猎户又看他一眼 没说什么 村民都说他沉默寡言 但一睁眼能吓死人
35:24我乃推了娘亲一把 推得他单薄的身子差点摔倒 我娘拉着我往前两步 直接跪下了张
35:29大哥 我南南吃得少 能干活 能不能请你给个活路 张猎户这才看过来 重没看我 眼神莫名自我即使起
35:35就看见娘每天都被家里人欺负 我保护不了娘 但我觉得张猎户可以哪怕因为父亲尸骨未寒就认别人当爹
35:42而背上不孝之名 我也要赌一把我不想再看到娘的眼泪了 我跪在地上 用尽所有力气
35:47大声地喊了声 爹张猎户愣住 刀疤看起来更猙獰了
35:52这就着急叫别人爹跟你见货娘一样 够了 张猎户站起来 进屋 丢了十两银子出来 这丫头以后是我家的孩子了我抬头看向张猎户
36:00娘没注意到她的话 但我听到了 奶奶拿了银子就要走 但张猎户拦住了她 要求写下契约奶奶不肯 不愿意写什么契约
36:07但张猎户一把将银子抢回来 不签 银子还来最终 还是在祖老跟村长的见证下写了契约
36:12我和娘都成了张猎户家的人
36:14最终 还是在祖老跟村长的见证下写了契约 我和娘都成了张猎户家的人 娘丢下包袱 就开始干活她希望自己勤快点
36:21多干活 张猎户看到她的勤快 能让我多吃几口饭 可以不打我张猎户家里布置得很简单
36:26三间正房 中间堂屋 两边各一个卧室 但只有一个卧房有床 另一个卧房是空的娘带我去看了看柴房 这里柴火收拾得很干净
36:34屋里也干净 娘把柴火弄了弄 掌木板子给我搭了个床
36:37奶奶 别怕这里就是我晚上睡觉的窝了
36:41我把稻草往床上扑娘 我不怕反正在赵家也一直是这样的
36:44这些年我也都过来了
36:44娘抱了抱我可能 等娘给他生个儿子就好了我却隐约觉得
36:48也许爹对娘不好 也不是因为他没生儿子娘
36:53爹为什么让你改嫁张家以前爹看娘看了严实 不许他出村子
36:55不许他抬头看人奶奶也总骂娘
36:57让他少在外面勾搭人 怎么会突然间要他改嫁 还这么迫不及待娘的苦笑闷在胸腔里
37:02声音也极小
37:03因为只有张猎虎才拿得出这么多银子 也也后边的字他没说出来
37:09但我知道爹是让娘来送死的原来 爹在走之前就想过把娘卖掉换钱他回不来
37:12却也不让娘亲好过 把娘卖了换银子
37:14还要绝了娘的生路我猜得到这些 不是因为我心眼子够多 实在是他们做得太明显村里人都这么说
37:19便是听不到都不行村里人都这么说 便是听不到都不行没一会儿 张猎虎回来了
37:24他没搭理我们娘俩只是拿着很多木板子进了屋里
37:27叮叮当当的好一通敲打
37:28他打个用力 一下下的就好像打在我们娘俩心上娘站在屋外
37:33好几次想去问问家里粮食在哪他好去做饭
37:34但又不敢 过了一会儿 张猎虎就出来了见我们娘俩都在
37:38不禁中眉有事他声音凶恶
37:39我吓得想往后缩
37:40可这里只有我跟娘我往后缩 娘就只有一个人了 我挺住了拉着娘亲的手跟她站在一块
37:46张猎虎看到了我的举动眉毛动了动
37:48娘犹豫着问我 我想问该做晚饭了 你把晚饭的粮食拿出来我好去做饭
37:52你 你累了一天 也该吃饭了
37:54张猎虎又是皱眉 很疑惑的上下打量我们 随即指了纸造房我娘看了看
37:59那要是张猎虎眉头皱得更深
38:01过去一脚踹开了门 回头看我们我总觉得 他是在用眼神问我们是不是傻没有锁哪来的钥匙
38:06可在赵家不是这样的赵家的造房上锁
38:11就连家里的粮食油盐鸡蛋都锁在柜子里家里的饭都是娘来做
38:16但用多少米面用多少油盐和柴火都是奶奶说了算他会把做这顿饭需要的米面油盐都拿出来
38:17放在造台上盯着我娘做饭哪怕掉了一粒米
38:20他都要骂半天他说我娘是件蹄子
38:23说我们娘俩饿死鬼投胎每天只知道吃 一点活不会干的他怕我们偷吃
38:28我娘带着我进了造房看到米面油盐都摆在那里有些犹豫
38:30看了看张猎虎 他又出门去了娘有点不敢动
38:32他怕做不好张猎虎回来会打人
38:34像奶奶那样也怕被怀疑偷吃 最终娘还是做了饭最终娘还是做了饭饭摆在桌上
38:40我跟他站在院子里 都没敢动
38:44张猎虎又扛着两个大筐子回来进了没人住的西屋见到桌上的饭菜
38:46又看看我跟娘眉头皱得更深了他洗了手
38:48坐下 见我们还站着就粗着嗓子叫我们都做他成了一勺半的饭做少了
38:52明天多做点他吃饭很快
38:56呼呼啦啦地吃完却只吃了不到一半吃完就坐在那里
39:02一边磨柴刀一边看着我们吃娘犹豫着给我盛饭我们俩一边吃一边看他我很快发现了问题我吃得快
39:03他就不看
39:04我吃得慢 想放下筷子他就会皱眉这是
39:09让我吃我跟娘战战兢兢把剩下的吃完等得挨骂挨揍但是张猎虎没骂人
39:13也没打人只是把柴刀收起来叫我娘烧热水洗洗睡吧
39:16忙活一天了娘赶紧烧了热水等张猎虎洗完想了想
39:18给自己也洗了洗脸和手脚毕竟是第一天
39:22洗干净他就没那么嫌弃了他一边洗一边念叨神色灰暗不明
39:23也很紧张我就着他用剩下的热水洗了洗
39:31感觉手脚都暖和起来原来用热水洗脸洗脚是这么舒服难怪二叔和奶奶一到了冬天就总使还我多少热水呢洗过澡
39:37我进了柴房娘叮嘱我我狠狠点头
39:38我知道的以前爹狠狠欺负娘我哭着来哀求
39:43让他放过娘他就狠狠踹了我一脚踹得我疼了大半年这一次
39:46我不会再叫我们娘俩都得小心地活着活着
39:49才有希望虽然我也不知道这希望在哪只是
39:50很快 柴房门就被踹开了张猎虎拿着灯
39:53站在门口
39:54盯着在稻草中躺着的我我吓得往后缩
39:56冷汗直流有一次 爹大半年喝醉了从外面回来也是进柴房来他说都怪我是个赔钱货害得他没儿子被人笑怪我害得他输钱最后是我娘拿了柴刀要跟他拼命救了我张猎虎力气更大是不是三脚就能踹死我可是
40:09他没喝酒 也没有发怒只是过来像拎小鸡仔一样拎着我进了西屋我娘正小心地站在屋里本来空荡荡的屋里多了一个很宽大的木板床
40:19床上堆着几床虽然有些就去干净的棉被张猎虎把我放下转身就走回了他的东屋
40:23门一关没一会儿就传来他打呼噜的声音我跟娘面面相去这一晚
40:27我们睡得很忐忑却也很暖和我缩在自己的被窝里小声说娘
40:32好暖和我在冬天从来没这么暖和过而且晚上吃了饭肚子里也暖暖的我觉得
40:35现在好像才是活着娘摸摸我的头楠楠
40:37你今天叫他爹了明天也这么叫 以后都这么叫我点点头
40:40张猎虎比我爹对我好多了之后
41:02娘做的饭慢慢多起来她不敢一次就做太多是一点点增加的过了好几天她才终于摸清楚了张猎虎的脾气跟饭量她吃得多有我跟娘两个人的饭量加起来那么大但她从不会不许我们吃我们吃得少了她反而会种梅她会上山打猎打到了猎物大的就去卖掉偶尔会留小鸡小兔子让娘炖了吃她只吃一半剩下的一半留给我和娘我长这么大只吃过三次肉
41:27这是第四次肉真好吃啊怪不得奶奶和二叔那么喜欢娘看我吃得高兴多给我留了一些我只顾着吃也没注意到当晚吃多了大半夜肚子疼我在床上疼得打滚娘给我揉肚子也不管用跑出去挖了锅底灰给我冲水喝但我喝了一口就全吐出来肚子疼得像是要死了张猎虎冲进屋里见我这样直接用棉被裹着我扛着就跑我娘跌跌撞撞跟在后面一句话也不敢说她扛着我跑到村头
41:41直接踹开了郎中家的门村里的郎中全家被她吓了一跳埋怨她但在看到她的脸之后就不敢说话了郎中给我把麦又问这几天都吃了什么吃多了即使朝地平时吃的差一下子吃这么多肉消化不好没事开个要吐出来回去用热水
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