Betrayed by an alpha claimed by a lycan king

Chapter SAGE

16

I closed my eyes and let out a sigh of relief, feeling the tension drain from my body. I had been so afraid it would be me, but for now, I was safe.

Isabelle, a beautiful and confident woman, looked pleased with the announcement. She stood

up gracefully and bowed to the queen before leaving the dining hall, her head held high. The other women exchanged looks, some of jealousy, other of relief, but no one dared to voice their true thoughts.

I kept my expression neutral, not wanting to attract any attention. The whispers and murmurs began again, but they were now focused on Isabelle and what awaited her. quietly excused myself from the table and made my way back to my chambers, my thoughts racing. Once inside my room, I locked the door and leaned against it, taking a moment to compose myself. The palace was a dangerous place, and every decision and every reaction could have serious consequences. I needed to stay alert and cautious.

As I moved towards the window, I glanced outside at the sprawling palace grounds. There was so much I didn't know about this place, so much I needed to understand if I was going to survive here. I couldn't afford to be complacent.

A soft knock on the door pulled me out of my thoughts. It was Elara, my maid, who had become a trusted confidante since my arrival

"Are you alright, my lady?" Elara asked, concern evident in her eyes.

"Yes, Elara," I replied, forcing a smile..

She

e nodded sympathetically. "I understand. I am here to help you with your bath."

"Oh... "11 hesitated. Until now, I wasn't used to being this pampered. I was accustomed to being the one serving everybody until my arms felt like they would fall off. "That won't be necessary, Elara. I can do that myself." "Everyone does, my lady. But this is our duty, and if you continue to refuse my help, I might find myself jobless," she said jokingly, yet with a hint of seriousness that made her point clear.

I chuckled softly, appreciating her lighthearted approach. "Alright, Elara. I'll let you assist me. I wouldn't want you to lose your job because of me." Cassper Tob. Rep 10

She smiled warmly, guiding me towards the bathroom. The tub was already filled with warm water, steam rising gently. Elara had added fragrant oils that filled the room with a soothing aroma.

with preparing towels and laying out fresh clothes. I closed my eyes, allowing myself a moment of relaxation.

served in the palace for nearly a decade, my lady," she replied. "I've se women come and go. It

you enjoy it?" I asked,

nany

answer. "It's not always easy, but I find fulfillment in my work. Serving the royal family is an honor, despite the challenges. My family has served His Majesty for as long as I can remember. We owe him a lot. He saved our pack from devastation, and since then, he has never failed to extend help to

be comforting to know you're in a place

my lady. It gives me a sense

"How long have you known him, Elara?" I asked, my curiosity getting the

she

What is he like?" I asked, wondering if my life could have been different had I made other choices. Would I be able to

"I've known His Majesty for most of my life," she began. "My family has served him for generations. He's a complex man, strong and decisive, yet he has a sense of fairness and justice. He's not easily swayed by emotions, but he does what

I mean, has he

moments, though they are rare. His position demands a certain hardness, a certain distance. But those who have earned

Chapter In

Π

deeply, even if he doesn't show it openly. His actions speak

in thought. "I wonder if I'll

she continued to scrub my back. After a few more minutes, I decided

skin, a luxurious sensation that made me feel like royalty. She carefully adjusted the delicate straps and ensured the gown fell gracefully around me. "You're ready for a restful night, my lady,"

large, canopied bed that dominated the room. The

else you need, my lady?"

You've done more than enough. Thank you," I replied, giving her a

smile.

well. Rest well,

and quietly left the room, leaving me alone with my thoughts. As I lay back against the pillows, my mind began to wander. The room was cast in a soft, gentle glow from the dimmed lights, creating an