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00:10:04I need air.
00:10:08A maid was already waiting.
00:10:13Miss Alara has asked to see you, my king.
00:10:17She wishes to catch up.
00:10:22Their voices weren't loud, but the courtyard was too quiet.
00:10:27I heard every word.
00:10:29The door wasn't fully closed.
00:10:32I could see Kael pause, saying nothing.
00:10:35His back was to me.
00:10:38I couldn't see his face, but I knew he would go.
00:10:42A man is forever trapped by what he could never have in his youth.
00:10:48Besides, he had loved her so deeply.
00:10:51As expected, he turned back toward the room, wanting to say something.
00:11:00But I cut him off first.
00:11:09I had heard too many lies in my life.
00:11:14Today, I was too tired to listen to whatever absurd reason he had fabricated for Alara.
00:11:21The distance in my words hung naked in the air.
00:11:27Kael stiffened, his brows snapping together.
00:11:33Isla, do you hate me so much?
00:11:37The moment your sister returns, you can't wait to push me away?
00:11:41His chest heaved, a storm raging in his eyes.
00:11:45He grabbed his robe and slammed the door as he left.
00:11:49How ridiculous.
00:11:50He was the one who crossed the line first, yet now I was the heartless one.
00:11:57Tears spilled over before I could stop them.
00:12:00I wiped them away fiercely.
00:12:03Then mother slipped in and took my hand.
00:12:08Isla, I have no eloquence.
00:12:11I couldn't talk sensence into your sister, so I asked the king to comfort her.
00:12:15Can you bear with her a little longer?
00:12:21She is stubborn, but kind-hearted.
00:12:25She will understand eventually.
00:12:31I lowered my eyes, a bitter smile tugging at my lips.
00:12:35Kind-hearted, when she fled six years ago, did she ever consider that a bonding ceremony
00:12:43is the pack's highest right?
00:12:45One misstep, and our entire bloodline would have been destroyed.
00:12:50I gently pulled my hand free, my voice dropping like ice.
00:12:57Mother, after all these years, you still indulge her every whim without question.
00:13:05In your heart, was there ever a place for me?
00:13:12Ilara and I shared the same mother.
00:13:15But because I had been frail since childhood, I was sent to live in the countryside.
00:13:21I was only brought back the year I came of age.
00:13:25But Ilara, who had monopolized our parents' love, despised me.
00:13:30She framed me, tormented me, never stopped.
00:13:36I cried.
00:13:37I defended myself.
00:13:40But every time, father and mother punished me without asking right from wrong.
00:13:45No matter how clumsy her excuse is, they believed her unconditionally.
00:13:50They even locked me in the cold cellar for days.
00:13:53It wasn't until Ilara ran away that they remembered me, barely breathing in that cellar.
00:14:01In truth, we had only lived together for half a year.
00:14:08Isla, in your heart, is there truly no affection for me at all?
00:14:12Pain filled mother's eyes.
00:14:14I was stunned.
00:14:16So the cold distance, we both understood without words in their eyes.
00:14:23It was something that needed to be questioned.
00:14:26Did six years without Ilara make everyone forget that I had only ever been a replacement?
00:14:33A spare part brought in to fill the gap.
00:14:38Mother, please let me go back, I need to sleep.
00:14:42I stopped looking at her.
00:14:46Dawn broke, and Kale still had not returned to the bedchamber.
00:14:51It gave me the quiet I needed to finish drafting the severance of our mate Bond.
00:14:56By the time the maid came to call me for breakfast, the ink was dry.
00:15:02I folded the paper carefully and slipped it into my sleeve.
00:15:06My whole life, it seemed, I had lived for other people.
00:15:11Sent away as a child.
00:15:13Brought back when I came of age.
00:15:16Forced into a marriage that was never meant to be mine.
00:15:20But once this document was sealed, the road ahead would finally be my own.
00:15:25I had barely stepped into the front hall when I saw Kale seated there.
00:15:32Ilara beside him, smiling as if she already owned the room.
00:15:37Ila, last night I...
00:15:43He never finished.
00:15:45Ilara picked up a honeyed fruit and pressed it gently between his lips.
00:15:50The sight burned behind my eyes.
00:15:53I have no appetite, I'll return to my rooms.
00:15:57I turned and left before he could say another word.
00:16:01Whatever he had meant to say, I was done listening.
00:16:06Ila, must you treat me this way?
00:16:11My steps faltered, but then, Ilara pressed her handkerchief to her face and began to weep.
00:16:21Kale, it's all my fault.
00:16:23I shouldn't have come back.
00:16:25I've made Ila feel like I'm trying to take her place.
00:16:29If my presence distresses her, I'll leave.
00:16:36I would never cause trouble for you both.
00:16:37Don't speak nonsense.
00:16:40No one is sending you anywhere.
00:16:44Kale's voice was low and soft as he comforted her.
00:16:49Then, he turned to me.
00:16:51Ilara has just returned.
00:16:55I'm holding a feast in her honor.
00:16:58I hope he'll join us.
00:17:01Yes, sister, do come.
00:17:03We're family, after all.
00:17:06Ilara agreed in that same gentle tone.
00:17:09The sight stung my eyes.
00:17:11I didn't answer.
00:17:13I simply walked away.
00:17:15Of course I would go.
00:17:18This was my pack.
00:17:20I was the rightful Loma Queen.
00:17:22What did I have to fear?
00:17:25I returned to my chamber and summoned the most skilled maid.
00:17:31High chignon.
00:17:32Painted forehead ornament.
00:17:35Silk robes.
00:17:37Incense.
00:17:38Two hours later, I entered the great hall in a gown of silver-threaded gold, woven with the wolf crest.
00:17:46Ilara, meanwhile, lounged at ease in the same plain dress she had arrived in, leaning against our parents and Kale,
00:17:56laughing freely.
00:18:00Ilara blinked at my attire, then laughed.
00:18:05Iya, it's only a family dinner.
00:18:08Why such grandeur?
00:18:10Is your need to compete truly so desperate?
00:18:15I paused, my nails digging into my palm, but my face revealed nothing.
00:18:20You've lived in the wilds too long, sister.
00:18:23You may not understand.
00:18:26I am the Luna of this pack.
00:18:29Every word, every gesture reflects its honor.
00:18:31How could I appear before guests in disarray?
00:18:35You!
00:18:37Ilara swayed, clutching her chest.
00:18:41Her face, a mask of wounded fragility.
00:18:44You're nothing but a replacement!
00:18:48You stole my life!
00:18:51Took my place!
00:18:54All of this was meant to be mine!
00:18:58Absurd.
00:18:59Hadn't she been the one to throw all of this away?
00:19:03The hall fell silent.
00:19:05I lowered my eyes, my voice barely audible.
00:19:10Sister, you speak such interesting words.
00:19:14What did I steal?
00:19:15You were the one who found the throne too fragile.
00:19:18You handed it to me with both hands.
00:19:21You walked away so easily, unwilling to bear the burden.
00:19:25Why should I have spent six years holding your place?
00:19:30Facing what you refused to face?
00:19:32Kale's voice cracked like a whip.
00:19:34Kyla!
00:19:37Must you make your words so ugly?
00:19:40Does marrying me fill you with such bitterness?
00:19:44Kale looked beyond furious.
00:19:47His eyes were bloodshot.
00:19:49Before the words had left his mouth, his alpha presence crashed over me like an avalanche.
00:19:55Gasps rippled through the hall.
00:19:58I didn't flinch.
00:20:00If you mean to strike, then strike.
00:20:03I am tired.
00:20:05Kyle!
00:20:07Ilara threw her arms around him.
00:20:09When he didn't move, she pressed a slow kiss to his cheek.
00:20:13A touch, then gone.
00:20:15Last night, I learned your true heart.
00:20:18I am content.
00:20:23If I have caused strife between you, I will carry the guilt forever.
00:20:27What true heart?
00:20:29And why hadn't he pulled away from her kiss?
00:20:32Could it be?
00:20:34My mind went blank.
00:20:36I looked at the hand he'd settled against her waist, and spoke softly.
00:20:43Kale, so you do know how to be gentle.
00:20:47Just not with me.
00:20:49A crystal goblet on the side table exploded under the weight of his rage.
00:20:54Shards scattering across the marble.
00:20:57Kale stared at me, his own eyes red.
00:21:00As if he were bleeding for me, or perhaps for himself.
00:21:04Is that what you believe?
00:21:06I stepped back, and withdrew the paper from my sleeve.
00:21:10Laying it on the table.
00:21:12Kale.
00:21:13I want to sever the mate bond.
00:21:16Since she has returned, this bond was always meant to be hers.
00:21:20I am giving it back.
00:21:23Kale's eyes widened.
00:21:25Staring at me in disbelief.
00:21:27Kale stared at me in disbelief.
00:21:29I didn't wait for his answer.
00:21:31I turned and walked toward the hall doors.
00:21:34He reached to stop me.
00:21:36I sidestepped him gently.
00:21:38This bond, I returned to you.
00:21:42Not as a trade.
00:21:44As an ending.
00:21:47I looked at the four of them one last time.
00:21:50My voice barely audible.
00:21:53I won't be coming back.
00:21:55Consider these six years my repayment for being born into the family.
00:21:59From here on, take care of yourselves.
00:22:03I hated them for bringing me back.
00:22:05If they had left me alone, I would have lived out my days with my foster mother in the countryside.
00:22:09She wouldn't have cried herself blind from missing me.
00:22:12And died alone on a winter night.
00:22:15The next morning, I woke in a cottage in the Outlands.
00:22:19The table was covered with letters like scattered snow.
00:22:22The maid whispered.
00:22:24I was sent by the king and your parents.
00:22:26I did as you asked.
00:22:27I told no one where you were.
00:22:30I opened a few at random.
00:22:34Actually, I could already guess what they would write.
00:22:43Isla, mother knows you're angry.
00:22:45What was said yesterday came from temper.
00:22:48We know we were wrong.
00:22:49Come back and let us talk properly, won't you?
00:22:54Isla, wherever you are, return at once.
00:22:56I will never agree to the severance.
00:23:00Kale's handwriting was messy.
00:23:02Nothing like his usual forceful strokes.
00:23:06Could he actually be panicking?
00:23:09I kept looking and found another hand.
00:23:13Delicate feminine, Alara.
00:23:18Isla stepping aside is simply returning what was mine.
00:23:23Playing the victim now only makes me look like the villain.
00:23:28How naive.
00:23:30Did six years as Lunar Queen convince you this was real?
00:23:35Did you actually start believing you belonged?
00:23:39That night he told me himself.
00:23:42Only I am worthy of bearing his heir.
00:23:47Marrying you was nothing but a stop or despair the pack humiliation.
00:23:54Remember this.
00:23:55You will always be my replacement.
00:23:58And what replacement could ever dream of being loved?
00:24:03Isla.
00:24:04You will never win against me.
00:24:10I went rigid.
00:24:11So the tenderness he had shown me over six years was all a lie.
00:24:17Her words were shears slicing through the last of my self-deception.
00:24:22To comfort her.
00:24:24He hadn't even spared me a shred of dignity.
00:24:32I forced myself to focus and handed the severance document to the maid.
00:24:43Deliver this to the pack hall immediately.
00:24:46I tucked Ilara's letter inside with it.
00:24:50I packed quickly.
00:24:51Hired a carriage.
00:24:53And drove deeper into the outlands.
00:24:55I settled in a cottage by the water.
00:24:58That night.
00:24:59I pulled a yellowed scroll from beneath my pillow.
00:25:02An ancient scroll.
00:25:04Copied from the pack's archive chamber.
00:25:07A rejection ceremony requires both parties.
00:25:10The witness of elders.
00:25:12The eyes of everyone.
00:25:13I refused.
00:25:15And he had written.
00:25:16Never.
00:25:17But my mind was made up.
00:25:19The scroll recorded that with blood.
00:25:21As the catalyst.
00:25:23One could unilaterally tear the mate bond apart.
00:25:27I gripped a silver blade.
00:25:29And aimed it at my fingertip.
00:25:31Runes began to glow faintly across the parchment.
00:25:35Then.
00:25:36Urgent footsteps pounded across the yard outside.
00:25:39The maid rushed up.
00:25:40Breathless.
00:25:41Something terrible.
00:25:44My hand froze.
00:25:50I stopped in my tracks and turned to the maid.
00:25:55What was wrong?
00:25:57Her eyes were red.
00:25:59Her voice thick.
00:26:01Miss someone spread rumours in the capital.
00:26:05They say the woman the king has loved since youth has returned.
00:26:09And that he will sever the bond to marry her.
00:26:12Now, the whole capital is talking about you being cast aside.
00:26:17The words are unspeakable.
00:26:19My chest felt struck by a blunt weight.
00:26:21A dull, suffocating pain.
00:26:23At that moment, I realised I had forgotten my provisions.
00:26:26I had to return to the capital.
00:26:29I covered my face with a veil.
00:26:31And re-entered the city with the maid.
00:26:34While waiting at the grain shop, my gaze drifted to the other end of the street.
00:26:39The pack hall gates stood silent.
00:26:41But in the luxury boutique next door, two figures moved.
00:26:46Two familiar.
00:26:49Kale stood at the counter.
00:26:51Elara beside him.
00:26:53He picked up a wolf tooth pendant, paused and paid for it, tucking it carefully into his sleeve.
00:27:02Elara leaned against him, asking sweetly for a moonstone bracelet.
00:27:07He agreed.
00:27:09They stood there, like a newlywed couple.
00:27:12I looked away, after only a glance.
00:27:15The bond was about to be severed.
00:27:18What was left to see?
00:27:19I took my provisions and turned to leave.
00:27:21But just outside the gates, I was surrounded by a group of common women from the pack.
00:27:26Their faces were strangers to me.
00:27:31Well, isn't this the Luna Queen?
00:27:35A plump woman smiled first.
00:27:37What? Luna? Haven't you heard?
00:27:40The king has discarded her.
00:27:43The real one has returned.
00:27:45Another joined in, her voice dripping with scorn.
00:27:48She used to carry herself so high.
00:27:50Now she's sneaking out of the city like a rat.
00:27:53Laughter erupted. Someone reached to tear off my veil.
00:27:57Let's see what a cast aside...
00:28:00Luna Queen, Luna Flight!
00:28:04I dodged aside.
00:28:06My heart turned to ice.
00:28:08For six years as Luna Queen, I had been kind to everyone.
00:28:13I had never looked down on others.
00:28:15I didn't know these women at all.
00:28:17But once that title was stripped away, those who once wouldn't dare meet my eyes, now spat in my face.
00:28:26I heard Miss Ara is the king's true love.
00:28:29What tricks did you use to take her place?
00:28:32Where are you running to now? Too ashamed to show your face?
00:28:37I said nothing. Their voices rose, their questions turning venomous.
00:28:43You stole your sister's fate. Now the rightful one is back.
00:28:50Time for the imposter to crawl away.
00:28:54Laughter
00:28:57Did you know all along he loved another, yet clung to the position anyway?
00:29:02I brushed away the fingers in my face, my voice tight.
00:29:07Please let me pass.
00:29:08No one moved. They closed in tighter.
00:29:12The maid cried out, pushing desperately.
00:29:15Insolence! How dare you disrespect the Luna Queen!
00:29:20Luna Queen? She doesn't deserve the title.
00:29:24Laughter
00:29:26Someone spat. Countless mouths opened and closed.
00:29:31A net tightening around me.
00:29:33I gritted my teeth and pushed forward.
00:29:35The maid shielded me, shouting for them to make way, drawing only more mockery.
00:29:41Someone shoved me hard.
00:29:43My ankle twisted.
00:29:44I stumbled and fell forward.
00:29:47My elbows struck the rough stone.
00:29:50Dust flew up.
00:29:51I landed on my knees before them.
00:29:54In that instant, humiliation and pain surged through me.
00:30:03A tear struck the dirt.
00:30:06I wiped it away fiercely and tried to rise.
00:30:10The crowd roared with laughter.
00:30:13Eggs and stones flew from every direction.
00:30:18A cast-off woman still putting on oars.
00:30:22Get out of the capital!
00:30:23The six years you stole are owed back.
00:30:28A sharp stone sliced my temple.
00:30:30Blood ran down immediately.
00:30:32I lifted my dirt street face.
00:30:34Through blurred vision, I saw a familiar figure behind the crowd.
00:30:38Ilara's personal maid, pressing her lips together in a smile.
00:30:42Nodding to the burly women beside her.
00:30:44The woman seized my bloodied hand and pressed it to a scroll.
00:30:48The mate bond severed in a blaze of pain.
00:30:51So that was it.
00:30:53I swayed to my feet.
00:30:55Filth clinging to me.
00:30:57Blood and dust slid down my temple like a savage tear.
00:31:01But I straightened my spine and walked toward the city gates, one step at a time.
00:31:07Two thoughts remained in my mind.
00:31:10Kale.
00:31:10From this day forward, we meet neither in life nor in death.
00:31:16We settled in a cottage by the water, in a relay town on the edge of the capital.
00:31:22Lyra arrived a few days later than me.
00:31:25She had urgent family matters.
00:31:27The day she pushed through the door, she was carrying a massive bundle in her arms.
00:31:32Her face bright, with barely contained excitement.
00:31:37Miss?
00:31:38She placed the bundle carefully on the table, her eyes shining.
00:31:42Guess what?
00:31:43Those foul-mouthed women who blocked us at the capital E's.
00:31:46They got what was coming to them.
00:31:47I had been trimming a pot of wild herbs by the window.
00:31:50My hands stilled.
00:31:52I heard their tongues were pulled out.
00:31:54Lyra leaned closer.
00:31:55The king gave the order himself.
00:31:59I didn't answer.
00:32:01I only gathered the cut leaves into a clay bowl.
00:32:05Lyra studied my expression carefully.
00:32:10And?
00:32:13Say it all.
00:32:15Now.
00:32:20Lyra spoke faster.
00:32:22The king had Miss Aliyah moved out of the pack hall.
00:32:25She's in a western estate now, half a territory away.
00:32:28He told everyone outside that he and Miss Aliyah only met a few times and there was nothing between them.
00:32:35My hands paused.
00:32:37Lyra's voice carried a thread of excitement now.
00:32:40And when he dealt with those women, he had drums beaten and bells rung so the whole city would watch.
00:32:48He declared before everyone that you are the only Lunar Queen.
00:32:52Whoever touches you touches Kale.
00:32:57The tea shot down my throat.
00:32:59I coughed violently.
00:33:01I coughed violently.
00:33:03Lyra rushed to pat my back.
00:33:06It took a long moment before I could breathe again.
00:33:10Lyra whispered.
00:33:12And... and...
00:33:14Lyra.
00:33:17I lifted my eyes.
00:33:19Say everything today.
00:33:21I don't like half-truths.
00:33:24Lyra straightened at once, speaking rapidly.
00:33:27The king sent a message.
00:33:29He asks you to return.
00:33:32And he sent supplies.
00:33:35He... he asks you to return.
00:33:38She turned to untie the bundle.
00:33:40Blue cloth fell away.
00:33:42Healing supplies.
00:33:42Inside were stacked provisions.
00:33:46Furs.
00:33:46And a bottle of fine healing salve.
00:33:49Its scent clean and sharp.
00:33:52Beside them, lay a silver-grey wolf-pelt cloak.
00:33:56The one I had left behind, last winter.
00:34:05My gaze rested on it for only a moment.
00:34:08I retied the bundle.
00:34:09No emotion showed on my face.
00:34:13I'll accept the supplies.
00:34:15As for returning, tell him no.
00:34:18Lyra grew anxious.
00:34:20Miss, the king is sincere this time.
00:34:22Sincere.
00:34:26I cut her off.
00:34:28Shaking my head gently.
00:34:30Did he pull out their tongues to assert his own power,
00:34:33or tend to avenge me?
00:34:36Did he move Alara out to protect Pak Honor?
00:34:39Or because he finally sees clearer?
00:34:42You've been with me six years, can't you see?
00:34:45This is only the most dignified way to mend what he broke.
00:34:50I pushed the bundle to the corner of the table.
00:34:54I warn you.
00:34:56Not a single word about where I am.
00:35:00If you cannot hold your tongue, I will pack tonight and leave you here alone.
00:35:08Lyra's face went pale.
00:35:10Miss, I... I wouldn't dare.
00:35:13But... but what?
00:35:15But it's already too late.
00:35:16My brows drew together sharply.
00:35:20Too late for what?
00:35:23Then, from the cottage doorway, came the sound of familiar footsteps.
00:35:29KL stood in the yard, covered in road dust.
00:35:33His silver-grey wolf-pelt cloak was stiff with frost from the ride.
00:35:39He must have galloped through the night.
00:35:41His gaze passed over Lyra and locked onto me.
00:35:45Isla.
00:35:46His voice was harsey.
00:35:48I didn't move.
00:35:49I only looked at him.
00:35:52As if he were a stranger.
00:35:55We walked into the courtyard.
00:35:58Lyra had already slipped away without a sound.
00:36:03I've come to take you back.
00:36:05He stopped a few paces from me.
00:36:07His eyes swept the bundle on the table, and a flicker of pain crossed his face.
00:36:12His...
00:36:14Those things, they're not bargaining chips.
00:36:17They're what you deserve.
00:36:19Kyle.
00:36:21The bond is already broken.
00:36:25What is there to take back?
00:36:28He stepped closer.
00:36:30Urgent.
00:36:32Isla.
00:36:33Everything Allura wrote was a lie.
00:36:36I never called you a stoppine.
00:36:38That night I went to her.
00:36:40Your parents begged me.
00:36:43They said she was emotionally unravelling, that she might do something reckless.
00:36:47I spent the entire night in the hall with them, trying to make her accept reality.
00:36:52I never crossed any line.
00:36:55I...
00:36:55I didn't know she was capable of such malice.
00:36:59Of weaving lies to wound you.
00:37:02His eyes were bloodshot, searching my face for any crack.
00:37:07Isla, these six years.
00:37:09I was lost.
00:37:11Selfish.
00:37:12At times, I was cruel enough to think you were stronger than her.
00:37:17Better suited to endure the storms for me.
00:37:21But I swear, I don't know when it happened.
00:37:24My heart changed.
00:37:26I love you.
00:37:27I have loved you all along.
00:37:31I was only a fool.
00:37:34Blinded by the old obsession I couldn't have.
00:37:36Not until you left did I realize I had already fallen in love with you.
00:37:42I can't live without you.
00:37:43His voice was raw, his eyes red.
00:37:46Once, I might have been moved.
00:37:48Now, I only felt exhausted.
00:37:51Love me.
00:37:52I lifted my eyes, my voice flat.
00:37:56Kale.
00:37:58Is this your love?
00:38:02The night of the rival pack attack.
00:38:05You pulled every healer to save her dying lilies.
00:38:08While I bled out on the floor of the side chamber.
00:38:12Is it braiding our hair before the moon goddess to buy yourself peace?
00:38:17Is it what you said in your studio that only a Lara is worthy of bearing your heir?
00:38:22Your later tenderness was built on how much blood I shed for you.
00:38:29On confirming that I was more obedient.
00:38:32More useful than she ever was.
00:38:36Are you afraid of losing a convenient compliant Luna?
00:38:41Don't mistake need for love.
00:38:44With every word, more color drained from his face.
00:38:48I watched him pale and felt a strange calm.
00:38:52All those nights, you held me and said I was your Luna, your life.
00:38:58I spoke gently, but my eyes were barren.
00:39:02But I heard what you said in that study.
00:39:05Kale.
00:39:06I may be lowborn, but I am not blind and I am not deaf.
00:39:12No, no, it wasn't like that.
00:39:15His voice broke, agony swallowing him.
00:39:19I admit I was despicable.
00:39:22I admit I used you at first.
00:39:26But the years we shared were real.
00:39:28The blood I've spilled for you lately.
00:39:30The madness, the regret.
00:39:32The nights that belonged only to us.
00:39:34Do they count for nothing against one old mistake?
00:39:37They don't.
00:39:40I didn't hesitate.
00:39:43Kyle.
00:39:45From the start, this was a transaction.
00:39:48My family needed status.
00:39:50You needed a Luna to stabilize your rule.
00:39:54I needed to survive.
00:39:58The transaction is complete.
00:40:00The bond is severed.
00:40:01We owe each other nothing.
00:40:03That is the best ending.
00:40:05I pointed toward the gate.
00:40:08Please leave.
00:40:09This place suits me.
00:40:11I only want peace.
00:40:13I know I don't deserve your forgiveness.
00:40:16Kale dropped to his knees in the dirt.
00:40:19He looked up at me then.
00:40:21Eyes red.
00:40:22Please, Ayla.
00:40:24I am not asking you to forget.
00:40:28I am not asking you to forgive.
00:40:31Just let me try.
00:40:34Let me spend the rest of my life proving that I have learned.
00:40:38That I am not the man who walked past you in that hallway anymore.
00:40:42I looked down at him.
00:40:43This king who had slaughtered territories.
00:40:46Who had never bowed to anyone.
00:40:48Now kneeling in the dirt of my cottage yard.
00:40:51And I felt nothing.
00:40:54You think that night is the only reason I left?
00:40:57It's not.
00:40:58For six years, I was your shield, your advisor.
00:41:02Your Luna.
00:41:04And you never once asked what I needed.
00:41:09You only noticed I was gone when the silence in your room became too loud.
00:41:14That's not love.
00:41:16That's habit.
00:41:17I turned away.
00:41:19My fingers brushed the door frame.
00:41:21And I am not anyone's habit anymore.
00:41:23I walked inside and closed the door behind me.
00:41:27Kale stood there.
00:41:29As if every ounce of strength had been ripped from him.
00:41:33He said nothing more.
00:41:34He only looked at me, deeply.
00:41:36Then turned and walked away with heavy steps.
00:41:39At the same moment, miles away, chaos was already erupting before the pack hall.
00:41:45Elara wore white furs, no paint on her face.
00:41:49Weeping beautifully as she knelt on the steps of the capital square, drawing a crowd of pack members.
00:41:57Everyone, hear me!
00:41:59Her voice was pitiful.
00:42:02I only wanted to come home.
00:42:05To reunite with my parents.
00:42:07I meant no harm.
00:42:11But Isla cannot tolerate me.
00:42:13She forced me to leave the territory.
00:42:16To abandon everything.
00:42:18She stole my fate.
00:42:20Took my place for six years.
00:42:22And now that I've returned, she wants me dead!
00:42:27She raised her tear-filled eyes, scanning the growing crowd.
00:42:32And her voice shot higher.
00:42:35She is the imposter!
00:42:37Back then, she used tricks to bewitch Kale and take my place at the bonding ceremony!
00:42:45For six years, she has occupied the Lunar Queen's throne, enjoying the glory that was mine!
00:42:52And now she wants to strip me of even a place to stand!
00:42:56Where is the justice in that?!
00:42:59Her words were earnest, stirring, manipulative.
00:43:05The crowd began to whisper, looking toward the pack hall with sympathy for her and contempt for me, the vicious
00:43:12sister.
00:43:14Hilara rose slightly from her knees, lifting her tear-streaked face.
00:43:18I have been silent for six years.
00:43:24Six years of exile while she wore my crown!
00:43:29I kept quiet because I thought she was my sister.
00:43:33I thought she would treat my people with kindness.
00:43:36But instead, she rules with cruelty.
00:43:39She has cast me out!
00:43:41She has turned our king against me!
00:43:43A woman from the crowd shouted,
00:43:46Where is the king?!
00:43:48Why isn't he here to stop this?!
00:43:52That is the question, isn't it?
00:43:55She pressed a hand to her chest.
00:44:01Perhaps our king is not free to come.
00:44:04Every night she whispers poison in his ear.
00:44:07Every day she tightens her grip on this pack!
00:44:09She took my throne.
00:44:11She took my family.
00:44:13And now she wants to erase me completely!
00:44:18Is that the luna you want?!
00:44:20Murmurs rippled through the crowd.
00:44:23Louder now.
00:44:25She had no right to rule you.
00:44:27She had no right to rule him.
00:44:30And I am done being silenced!
00:44:32Just as anger peeped, Kale returned.
00:44:38Kale saw the crowd condemning me.
00:44:41And his face darkened with fury.
00:44:45Ilarra!
00:44:48Ilarra!
00:44:49Who gave you the nerve to spread such poison here?
00:44:52To slander my luna?
00:44:54Ilarra seemed shaken by his force.
00:44:56Her sobs catching.
00:45:00Kale...
00:45:01I only...
00:45:02Silence!
00:45:03Kale cut her off.
00:45:06What passes between me and my luna is not for an outsider to speak of.
00:45:10Spread such lies again.
00:45:12Stay in her name.
00:45:13And I will show no mercy.
00:45:16Not even for old acquaintance.
00:45:18His voice carried absolute authority.
00:45:21The crowd shrank under the cold killing intent radiating from him.
00:45:26And the noise died down.
00:45:28Ilarra looked at his merciless expression.
00:45:31Her eyes flickered.
00:45:33Suddenly she rose.
00:45:35Pushed through the crowd.
00:45:36And ran toward the city gates.
00:45:39Vanishing around the corner.
00:45:41Kale snorted.
00:45:42And ordered his guards.
00:45:44Watch her.
00:45:46See where she goes.
00:45:50Suspicion coiled in his chest.
00:45:52Her behavior was far more than jealousy.
00:45:56As expected.
00:45:57The tracking guards soon reported.
00:45:59That Ilarra had left the city.
00:46:01And headed straight for a desolate forest.
00:46:04In the western territory.
00:46:06Kale's brows locked together.
00:46:08He gathered his elite guard.
00:46:10And rode after her.
00:46:11Deep.
00:46:12In the forest.
00:46:14Branches blocked the sky.
00:46:16Light thin and gray.
00:46:18Kale had barely spotted Ilarra's vague shape.
00:46:21When the air tore with whistling arrows.
00:46:34Kale!
00:46:35Watch out!
00:46:36His guard shouted.
00:46:40Dozens of arrows shot from the dark woods.
00:46:43At the same time.
00:46:45Dozens of rival pack survivors.
00:46:47Surged from the shadows.
00:46:49Surrounding Kale's party.
00:46:50They wore old clan markings.
00:46:53Their eyes full of hatred.
00:46:56Their leader.
00:46:57Was the very rival pack chieftain.
00:46:59Who had escaped the night attack years ago.
00:47:07Kale!
00:47:08Kale!
00:47:09Didn't expect this did you?
00:47:11I'm alive!
00:47:13He grinned.
00:47:14Savagely.
00:47:17Today is your death day.
00:47:20Pay for my brothers!
00:47:22Kale's face went cold.
00:47:24He understood.
00:47:26Instantly.
00:47:27Ilarra.
00:47:28She had colluded with these outlaws to set this trap.
00:47:34With only you remnants.
00:47:37Kale drew his blade.
00:47:39Killing intent blazing in his eyes.
00:47:43You destroyed my family that year.
00:47:45Kale.
00:47:47I settle the debt myself.
00:47:49For my child.
00:47:52Battle exploded.
00:47:57The assassins were many.
00:47:59Prepared.
00:48:00Each strike vicious.
00:48:02And aimed to kill.
00:48:03Kale was powerful.
00:48:05His guard elite.
00:48:07But the enemy fought like men with nothing to lose.
00:48:11Soon.
00:48:12Casualties appeared on Kale's side.
00:48:14And a wound opened on his own arm.
00:48:16Kale!
00:48:17Your life!
00:48:22The enemy chief seized the moment.
00:48:24Joining his best fighters in a coordinated assault.
00:48:28There was nowhere to dodge.
00:48:35A blade of light precisely deflected to the fatal strike.
00:48:39Aimed at Kale.
00:48:41I landed steady at Kale's side.
00:48:44The wind itself seemed to stop.
00:48:48Everyone stared at me in shock.
00:48:53Disbelief filling their eyes.
00:48:57How can it be you?
00:48:59Ilara's voice shook.
00:49:01Kale stared at me.
00:49:02The wound on his arm forgotten.
00:49:05Isla, what is-
00:49:05I met his gaze and slowly drew something from the hidden pocket inside my sleeve.
00:49:13A token.
00:49:15Half the size of my palm.
00:49:17Its edges worn smooth.
00:49:20Carved with a clan sigil.
00:49:23Identical to the one hanging from the killer chief's belt.
00:49:26And...
00:49:27Recognize this.
00:49:30My voice was barely audible.
00:49:33The killer chief's face changed.
00:49:38That...
00:49:39That's...
00:49:40This is your token.
00:49:42I cut him off.
00:49:45My fingertip tracing the rough carving.
00:49:51Six years ago, in a cottage a hundred miles from the capital, on a freezing winter night, you broke into
00:50:00a home.
00:50:03An old woman sat under lamplight, mending old clothes.
00:50:09On her table was a bundle of fresh baked bread, and a small jar of plums she had pickled all
00:50:16autumn.
00:50:17She planned to send them to her child in the capital, the one she missed day and night.
00:50:24My voice began to tremble.
00:50:28Uncontrollably.
00:50:29I saw again that snowy night.
00:50:32Saw my foster mother in a pool of blood.
00:50:35Still clutching the bundle she never got to send.
00:50:45You took what little food she had.
00:50:47You wanted the bread and the plums too.
00:50:51She wouldn't give them up.
00:50:53She knelt and begged you.
00:50:55Said they were for her child.
00:50:58You found her troublesome.
00:51:00And cut her throat.
00:51:02Silence swallowed the forest.
00:51:04Only my voice remained.
00:51:06When I received word and rushed back.
00:51:08Snow had covered the blood.
00:51:11I found this beside her cold hand.
00:51:15I raised the token.
00:51:19Later.
00:51:21After I married into the pack.
00:51:23On the night of the attack.
00:51:25When you surrounded me.
00:51:27I saw the same tokens on your bodies.
00:51:31I turned to Kale.
00:51:33Watching his face turn ashen.
00:51:35The child was gone.
00:51:38I hated.
00:51:40I wanted to die.
00:51:48But when you told me with red-rimmed eyes.
00:51:50That exterminated those responsible.
00:51:52That blood debt was paid.
00:51:54I felt a flicker of gratitude.
00:51:55I thought her vengeance was finally complete.
00:51:58I thought her vengeance was finally complete.
00:52:07Kale's lips shook violently.
00:52:10He looked at the token in my hand.
00:52:12Then whipped toward the killers.
00:52:14His gaze turning terrible.
00:52:17It was you!
00:52:20You hurt my Isla!
00:52:22Twice!
00:52:23You're only asking now.
00:52:25Isn't it too late?
00:52:28I said calmly.
00:52:30My eyes moving to Alara.
00:52:32Who had been shrinking back.
00:52:37But what truly killed my heart wasn't them.
00:52:42It was you.
00:52:47Alara shuddered.
00:52:49After you returned.
00:52:51That night you called Kale out to catch up.
00:52:54I walked toward her.
00:52:56Step by step.
00:52:57She retreated in terror.
00:52:59Until her back hit a tree trunk.
00:53:01I was restless.
00:53:02So I didn't follow.
00:53:04But on my way back to my chamber I passed your guest wing.
00:53:07Your window was open.
00:53:10Candlelight bright.
00:53:11And on your table.
00:53:14I saw another token exactly like this one.
00:53:16Kale whipped his head toward Alara.
00:53:19Alara.
00:53:21You dared to conspire with these criminals.
00:53:25At first I didn't understand.
00:53:27I interrupted him.
00:53:29Looking at Alara.
00:53:31Until later.
00:53:34When I bribed a frightened maid.
00:53:37At your side.
00:53:38She told me you hadn't returned.
00:53:40Unprepared.
00:53:42During your years away.
00:53:44You had connected with all manner of outcasts.
00:53:47Including these surviving remnants of the rival pack.
00:53:52You kept this token as your command.
00:53:54Sigil over part of their force.
00:53:57When you learned Kale had destroyed most of them.
00:54:00You planned to use these survivors.
00:54:03To stir chaos upon your return.
00:54:07Or to use them against me if necessary.
00:54:13I watched Alara's bloodless face.
00:54:16And continued.
00:54:17After that night.
00:54:19I didn't sleep.
00:54:25I finally pieced it all together.
00:54:27My foster mother's death.
00:54:29My child's death.
00:54:32You were likely tangled in both.
00:54:35And still.
00:54:36You could play the innocent.
00:54:38Return to fight me for my husband.
00:54:41To steal the life I had fought to build.
00:54:44More laughable still.
00:54:47I looked at Kale.
00:54:49My eyes flat.
00:54:51You swore you loved me.
00:54:54Yet you knew none of this.
00:54:55I drew a deep breath.
00:54:57Forcing down the sob in my throat.
00:55:00Drafting that severant wasn't own willy because of your indistitial and her provocations.
00:55:06It was because.
00:55:08I suddenly saw how absurd all of this was.
00:55:12So I played along.
00:55:16I deliberately provoked Alara.
00:55:20Intensifying her hatred for me.
00:55:23I knew that with her obsession and her hidden weapons.
00:55:26When she realized she couldn't win by ordinary means.
00:55:31She would resort to these.
00:55:34Shadowed forces.
00:55:35I turned back to the killers.
00:55:38Raising my blade to point at them.
00:55:41And you.
00:55:43And her.
00:55:45The fact that you are all gathered here today.
00:55:48Is exactly what I wanted.
00:55:51For my foster mother.
00:55:53For my child.
00:55:54For these six years of absurdity.
00:55:56I wanted an ending.
00:55:58The moment my words fell.
00:56:00The forest erupted.
00:56:01With the sound of rushing footsteps.
00:56:04A spark of relief lit inside me.
00:56:08The time I had bought.
00:56:10Had finally paid off.
00:56:13Pack enforcers.
00:56:15Traitors and outlaws.
00:56:17Drop your blades.
00:56:18And submit.
00:56:20Torchlight flared.
00:56:22Elite warriors and silver mail.
00:56:25Poured from every direction.
00:56:26Sealing the forest tight.
00:56:29The assassins fell into chaos.
00:56:32Some tried to flee.
00:56:34But the trained enforcers cut them off.
00:56:36And herded them into pockets.
00:56:38Leaving no escape.
00:56:40The chief saw his doom.
00:56:42His eyes turned savage.
00:56:45Abandoning all caution.
00:56:47He lunged at me.
00:56:49His blade slicing straight for my face.
00:56:52He knew he wouldn't escape today.
00:56:55He meant to take me with him.
00:56:59Kyla, watch out!
00:57:01Kael shouted in terror.
00:57:04Ignoring his wounds to rush toward me.
00:57:06But I was faster.
00:57:08The image of my foster mother clutching the bread.
00:57:12The faint cry of my lost child.
00:57:15The countless nights I woke from nightmares.
00:57:19Gasping.
00:57:20All my grief and hatred crystallized into strength.
00:57:25I sidestepped the blade.
00:57:27Knife sank into the chief's chest.
00:57:31Warm blood sprayed across my cheek.
00:57:34His eyes widened.
00:57:36His mouth opened.
00:57:38Then he crashed to the ground.
00:57:40Dead.
00:57:45Ilaris screamed.
00:57:46And turned to flee deeper into the woods.
00:57:50I blocked her path.
00:57:52A flash of my blade caught her knee.
00:57:55She shrieked and collapsed.
00:57:57Blood soaking her white furs.
00:58:00Two enforcers seized her without mercy.
00:58:04Isla, you wretched Kyle!
00:58:06Kyle, save me!
00:58:10She thrashed and shrieked like a mad woman.
00:58:14Kael didn't look at her.
00:58:15He only looked at me.
00:58:17The remaining killers were crushed by the enforcer's assault.
00:58:21Killed or captured within moments.
00:58:25Three days later, in the Great Hall, the High Elder listened to the full report.
00:58:32His expression grave.
00:58:33Isla, wise and courageous.
00:58:36Calm in the face of death.
00:58:39You used yourself as bait to lure out the rival pack.
00:58:42Remnants and aided the enforcers in exterminating them.
00:58:47Cleansing the pack of treachery.
00:58:49Elara conspired with rival pack outlaws and framed the Lunar Queen.
00:58:54Her heart is rotten.
00:58:57She is stripped of all pack standing.
00:59:00Cast out as an outcast.
00:59:02And thrown into the dungeon to await execution.
00:59:07I bowed, my voice steady.
00:59:10Elara's fate had been sealed long ago.
00:59:15The High Elder paused, then added.
00:59:18You are a woman.
00:59:21Yet you possess the mind of a strategist.
00:59:28And the courage of a warrior.
00:59:31I hereby appoint you council scribe of the pack.
00:59:36You will hold authority over all territorial records and decrees.
00:59:41Enter and leave the inner chambers freely.
00:59:44And advise on all matters.
00:59:47Continue to serve the pack.
00:59:49With your talents.
00:59:52I accept the appointment.
00:59:56I bowed again.
00:59:58I shed the Lunar ceremonial gown.
01:00:01And donned the formal robes of a scribe.
01:00:04This path was the new life I had carved with my own hands.
01:00:10The pack dismissal bell rang.
01:00:13Clan representatives filed out.
01:00:16The sunlight was blinding.
01:00:19I narrowed my eyes slightly.
01:00:24The familiar voice came from behind me.
01:00:27I did not slow my steps.
01:00:32Aya, wait!
01:00:33Kael hurried after me and blocked my path.
01:00:37His face was pale.
01:00:38His eyes filled with pain.
01:00:42Congratulations on your appointment.
01:00:45I gave a slight nod and moved to step around him.
01:00:50Isla!
01:00:51He reached for my sleeve.
01:00:53Then pulled his hand back.
01:00:55I'm sorry.
01:01:00I know it's too late.
01:01:01I know it's laughable.
01:01:04I was a fool, blind and stupid, deceived by her performance.
01:01:11I let you suffer.
01:01:12And I nearly cost you your life.
01:01:15His eyes reddened instantly.
01:01:19But Aayla, from beginning to end, my heart has only ever held you.
01:01:23I beg you.
01:01:25Give me one more chance.
01:01:27Let us start again, please.
01:01:30His eyes held a begging I had never seen.
01:01:32I listened quietly.
01:01:34But inside, there was nothing left.
01:01:38Those once burning feelings scattered long ago.
01:01:42Carried away by disappointment after disappointment.
01:01:48Kyle.
01:01:49I lifted my eyes and looked at him calmly.
01:01:51The one who killed my foster mother.
01:01:54I have killed him with my own hands.
01:01:56The outlaws who took my child have been brought to justice.
01:02:01The elder's grace allows me to stand on my own merit.
01:02:06Old debts are settled.
01:02:09Grudges are cleared.
01:02:10From the moment the bond broke, we owed each other nothing.
01:02:14From now on, you are the Lyman king and I am the council scribe.
01:02:19Our paths are long.
01:02:20Take care of yourself.
01:02:23Then I turned and walked steadily forward.
01:02:26The sunlight stretched my shadow long across the floor.
01:02:31It would never again touch his.
01:02:34To be continued.
01:02:36The airy looks.
01:02:36Just that way.
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