The Omega Rejected Me, Then Fainted in My Arms—Now She Bears My Mark…

Aria’s eyes snapped open to silk sheets she’d never touched before, a massive for poster bed she’d never seen, and a throbbing, burning sensation on her neck that made her blood run cold. When her trembling fingers touched the mark, she knew with absolute certainty someone had claimed her, and she had no memory of saying yes.

 The bite mark pulsed under her fingertips, hot and raised like a brand. Her heart hammered against her ribs as she sat up too fast, making the room tilt sideways. This wasn’t her cramped closet of a room in the servants’s quarters. This was somewhere else entirely. Darkwood furniture that probably cost more than she’d earn in a lifetime.

Windows that stretched from floor to ceiling, showing a view of the northern mountains she’d only ever seen from a distance. And that bed, gods, that bed could fit five of her. She pressed harder against the mark, and pain shot through her like lightning. What happened? The last thing she remembered was standing in line with 300 other unmated She Wolves at the Alpha King selection ceremony.

 Her best dress, really her only dress that wasn’t falling apart, had felt shabby next to the other females in their designer gowns and perfect makeup. She’d kept her head down, tried to stay invisible like always. Because that’s what omegas did. Especially weak ones like her. You really think you have a chance? Becca had sneered as they’d waited.

 The Beta’s daughter had made Arya’s life hell since they were children. The Alpha King would rather stay unmated than settle for something like you. Arya hadn’t even wanted to be there. But attendance was mandatory for every unmated female over 18. The alpha king needed a mate to solidify his rule, and every pack in the territory had sent their eligible wolves.

 She’d just been trying to survive the day without anyone noticing her. Then she’d caught his scent. Pine and winter storms and something dark and wild that had no name. It had hit her like a physical blow, stealing the breath from her lungs. Her wolf, the small, timid creature that barely ever made itself known, had suddenly surged forward with a strength that shocked her.

 Mate, no, that couldn’t be right. Omegas didn’t get faded mates, especially not her. She was nobody. Nothing. The wolf everyone forgot existed until they needed someone to blame for something. But her wolf hadn’t cared about logic. It had pulled her forward, making her look up for the first time all day. And there he was. Alpha King Damian Blackwood.

6 and 1/2 ft of pure lethal power. Dark hair that looked like he’d run his hands through it too many times. Eyes that could freeze you where you stood. A face that belonged on ancient coins. All hard edges and sharp angles. He’d been scanning the crowd with obvious boredom, fulfilling his duty, just like the rest of them. Then their eyes met.

 She’d watched his entire body go rigid. Watched those cold silver eyes go wide with something she couldn’t name. Shock, maybe or horror. The mate Bond had snapped into place with enough force to buckle her knees. Too much. Too intense. like every emotion she’d ever felt in her life hitting her all at once. His anger, his desire, his absolute fury at the bond, it all poured into her through a connection she didn’t know how to block.

 The last thing she remembered was falling forward. And his arms catching her as the world went black. Now she was here in his chambers with his mark burning on her neck. You’re awake. Arya jerked so hard she nearly fell off the bed. Her head whipped toward the voice. And there he was. Alpha King Damian stood in the doorway like an avenging angel.

 All controlled power and barely contained rage. He’d changed from the formal suit he’d worn at the ceremony. Now he wore dark pants and a black shirt with the sleeves rolled up showing forearms corded with muscle. He looked at her the way you’d look at a problem you didn’t want to solve. How long? Her voice came out scratchy, broken.

 She cleared her throat and tried again. How long was I unconscious? 12 hours. He moved into the room with that predators grace all alphas had. But his was different, more controlled, more dangerous. You fainted at the ceremony yesterday afternoon. Yesterday she’d lost an entire day. Aria’s hand pressed against the mark again. You bit me.

 It wasn’t a question, but he answered anyway. Yes, I didn’t consent to this. Something flickered across his face. There and gone so fast she almost missed it. You were dying. The words hung in the air between them. What? She stared at him, searching for any sign he was lying. But Alpha Kings didn’t lie. They didn’t have to.

 When you fainted, your heart stopped. He said, “It’s so matterof factly, like he was discussing the weather.” But his hands had curled into fists at his sides. The pack physician said, “You were experiencing mate bond shock.” Your omega couldn’t handle the strength of the connection. Arya felt the blood drain from her face. Mate Bond shock was rare, usually only happening when the power difference between mates was enormous.

When one wolf was so much stronger than the other that the bond itself became toxic. So you bit me to save my life. She heard the disbelief in her own voice. The bite forced your wolf to accept the bond to adapt. His jaw was so tight she could see the muscle ticking. It was the only option. The only option was to mark me without my permission.

The only option was to keep you breathing. He took another step closer and she caught his scent again. Her wolf whimpered, wanting to go to him, wanting to nuzzle into that claiming bite and accept it. She told her wolf to shut up. You could have let me die. The words were out before she could stop them.

 His eyes flashed with something wild. No, I couldn’t. The way he said it made her chest hurt, like he’d tried, like he’d wanted to, like some part of him had stood there while she was dying and actually considered letting her go. You’re angry. I’m your mate. She said it quietly, but she knew he heard her.

 Alphas heard everything. I’m angry the fates paired me with someone who can barely survive being in the same room as me. He practically spat the words. I’m angry that I’ll spend the rest of my life watching you flinch every time I walk into a room. I don’t. You’re doing it right now. He cut her off. You’ve been trying to make yourself smaller since the moment you woke up.

 You can’t even look at me for more than a few seconds. Because he was right. Because she’d spent her whole life learning to take up as little space as possible. Because looking directly at an alpha, any alpha, let alone the alpha king, went against every survival instinct she had. What did you expect? The words burst out of her, surprising them both.

 You’re the alpha king. I’m Omega trash that everyone steps on. You think I don’t know what this looks like? What everyone’s going to say? I don’t care what anyone says. Well, I do. Her voice cracked. I’m the one who has to live with everyone knowing I’m not good enough for you. That you got stuck with the weakest wolf in the territory because the fates have a sick sense of humor.

 Silence fell between them like a blade. When he spoke again, his voice had gone dangerously soft. Is that what you think? That you’re not good enough? It’s what I know? She finally forced herself to look at him directly, holding his gaze, even though everything in her screamed to look away. It’s what everyone knows, including you.

 Something shifted in his expression. The anger was still there, but now there was something else underneath it, something that looked almost like pain. “Get some rest,” he said abruptly. “The pack physician will be here in an hour to check on you.” He turned to leave, and Arya knew she should let him go. She’d keep her mouth shut and be grateful she was alive, even if she had no idea why someone had wanted her dead in the first place.

 But she’d never been good at doing what she should. You said the bite was necessary to save my life. Her voice stopped him at the door, but you didn’t say why my life needed saving. What happened while I was unconscious? His hand gripped the door frame so hard she heard the wood crack. That he said without turning around is what I’m trying to figure out.

 Then he was gone, leaving Arya alone with a claiming mark she didn’t remember accepting, a mate who wished she didn’t exist, and the terrifying knowledge that someone had apparently tried to kill her, and nobody knew why. Wanting to see what would happen next? Subscribe to this channel to get to listen to more of our upcoming exciting stories, click on the subscribe button now. Thank you. Chapter 2.

 Arya lasted exactly 20 minutes before she threw off those silk sheets and went looking for answers. The pack physician, a stern-faced woman named Dr. Reeves, who looked at Arya like she was a particularly disappointing medical specimen, had come and gone. She’d poked and prodded, muttered things about miraculous recovery and shouldn’t be possible, then left with instructions for Arya to rest.

 rest like she could sleep not knowing why someone wanted her dead. She tried exploring the chambers, hoping to find Damian and demand the truth. But the rooms were enormous, connecting one to another like some kind of royal maze, a bedroom the size of her entire pack house back home, a bathroom with a tub that could double as a swimming pool, a sitting room with leather furniture, and a fireplace big enough to stand in.

 Everything screamed power and wealth and a life so far removed from hers they might as well be different species. She just opened what she thought was a closet and turned out to be another bedroom when the main door opened. Damian entered with a silver-haired man at his side. The other wolf wore glasses and carried a leather folder like a shield.

 He took one look at Arya standing there in nothing but the oversized shirt someone had dressed her in and his expression went carefully blank. Miss Thorne,” he said with the kind of politeness that felt like an insult. “You should be resting. I’ve been resting for 12 hours.” She looked past him to Damian. “We need to talk.” “This is Richard Ashford, my chief adviser.

” Damen’s voice gave nothing away. “Richard, give us the room.” The older man’s jaw tightened. “Your majesty, we have the council meeting in.” I said, “Give us the room.” It wasn’t loud. Didn’t have to be. The command and those words made even Arya’s wolf duck its head in submission. Richard left, but not before shooting Arya a look that said he blamed her for every problem in Damian’s life.

 Maybe in the whole kingdom. The door closed with a decisive click. You were poisoned. Damian spoke before she could. He moved to a side table and poured himself a drink from a crystal decanter. Didn’t offer her one. Not in the traditional sense, but poison nonetheless. Aria’s heart kicked against her ribs. I don’t understand.

Dr. Reeves found traces of a partial mark on your shoulder. He took a drink, watching her over the rim of the glass. Someone bit you. Started a claiming bond, then abandoned it before completion. The world tilted sideways. No, no, he couldn’t mean 3 years ago. The words fell from her lips like stones. Beta Marcus.

 Damian’s eyes sharpened. Tell me. So she did. Because what did it matter now? Everyone in her pack knew anyway. It had been the final nail in her worthless reputation. I was 15. he was 24. Her voice sounded far away, like it belonged to someone else. He said I was his mate. That he’d recognize the bond the moment he saw me.

 She’d been so stupid, so desperate to believe that someone wanted her. That maybe she wasn’t as worthless as everyone said. He marked me one night behind the pack house. The memory made her skin crawl. Said we had to keep it secret until I turned 18. that his father would never approve of him mating an Omega, but once the bond was complete, there’d be nothing anyone could do.

 Damian’s knuckles had gone white around his glass. I believed him. God, she’d been such a fool. For 3 years, I kept his secret. Let him tell me when to meet him, when to stay away. He’d touch the mark sometimes, just enough to keep it active. Keep me hoping. What happened when you turned 18? Aria’s laugh came out broken. He announced his engagement to the alpha’s daughter.

 Told everyone the mark on me was just a youthful mistake and that it would fade on its own. She met Damen’s eyes. Except it didn’t fade. It just sat there half-formed, rotting. Son of a [ __ ] Damian set his glass down so hard she was surprised it didn’t shatter. An incomplete bond is a death sentence. He had to have known that.

 I don’t think he cared. She wrapped her arms around herself. Omegas die young anyway. Everyone expected me to just fade away eventually. But you didn’t. No. She lifted her chin. I was too stubborn to die just because some beta decided I wasn’t worth finishing what he started. Something flickered in Damian’s expression. almost like respect, but it was gone before she could be sure.

 The incomplete bond was poisoning you slowly, he said. Eating away at your wolf from the inside. When our mate Bond snapped into place, your body tried to accept two claims at once. The conflict stopped your heart. Arya felt the pieces clicking together. So, you bit me to override Marcus’ mark. I bit you because you were dying in my arms and it was the only way to save you.

 His voice had gone rough. A true mate’s claim supersedes all others. The moment I marked you, Marcus’ bond shattered. She should feel relieved, grateful, even. But all she felt was cold. So you’re stuck with me because some beta tried to kill me 3 years ago. She watched his face. That must make you furious. What makes me furious, he said quietly, is that someone allowed this to happen.

That your pack knew you carried a partial mark and did nothing. That they let you suffer for 3 years because you were just an omega. The way he said it made something crack in her chest. Don’t. She held up a hand. Don’t pretend you care. You made it clear you’re not happy about this bond anymore than I am. I never said you didn’t have to.

 She pushed past him toward the door. I heard what you told your adviser. That the fates cursed you with the weakest wolf in the kingdom. Damian went absolutely still. You were listening. I was trying to find you. Guess I found more than I bargained for. She reached for the door handle. Don’t worry.

 I’ll figure out a way to reject the bond and get out of your life. His hands slammed against the door above her head, caging her in. She could feel the heat of him at her back. Smell that pine and winter storm scent that made her wolf whimper. You can’t reject a king’s claim, he said softly. Too softly. The penalty is execution. Aria’s blood turned to ice.

 She turned slowly, finding herself trapped between the door and his body. You’re joking. Royal law. A king’s mate bond is sacred. Breaking it is considered treason against the crown. His eyes were mercury silver and completely serious. You reject this bond and you die. So I’m your prisoner. The words tasted like ash.

 Trapped in a bond neither of us wants because the alternative is death. The alternative is you walking away and getting yourself killed. He leaned closer and she felt the bite mark on her neck pulse with heat. There are worse fates than being queen. Name one. A knock at the door interrupted whatever he’d been about to say.

 He pulled back and Arya immediately missed his warmth. Hated herself for missing it. Enter. Damian commanded. Richard returned looking even more pinched than before. Your majesty, the council is assembled. They’re demanding to meet the new queen. Tell them with respect. Sir, you can’t put this off. Richard’s voice dropped. Lady Celeste has already filed a formal challenge.

Arya watched Damen’s jaw turned to granite. She wouldn’t dare. She dared. Richard glanced at Arya and she saw something almost like pity in his eyes. She’s claiming that an Omega cannot fulfill the duties of queen. that Miss Thorne’s weakness puts the entire kingdom at risk. Lady Celeste can go to hell.

 Lady Celeste, Richard continued as if Damen hadn’t spoken, is the daughter of the Northern Alpha Prime and your former. He trailed off delicately. His former lover, Arya finished, because of course, of course, Damen had a beautiful, powerful ex who was everything Arya wasn’t. Richard’s silence was answer enough. The challenge is formal, the adviser continued.

Which means Miss Thorne must appear before the council within 24 hours or forfeit her claim to the title. Arya isn’t forfeiting anything, Damen growled. I’m standing right here. Arya snapped. Stop talking about me like I’m not in the room. Both men looked at her. Richard with surprise. Damian with something that might have been approval.

 What happens if I forfeit? she asked Richard directly. Miss Thorne, I don’t think what happens. Richard adjusted his glasses. If you forfeit your claim as queen, the royal bond remains, but you lose all title and protection. You’d essentially be a kept woman, the alpha king’s maiden name only. And if I accept the challenge, then you face Lady Celeste before the council.

 Richard’s expression said he thought she was insane to even consider it. You’d have to prove you’re worthy of being queen. How? Tests of strength, wisdom, and leadership. Damian’s voice had gone hard. It’s archaic and barbaric, and you’re not doing it. Arya turned to face him fully. Don’t I get a say in this? Not when it comes to you walking into a situation designed to destroy you.

 He moved closer, crowding her against the door again. Celeste is a trained warrior. She’s won tournaments against alphas twice her size. You’re an Omega who’s been recovering from near death for the last 12 hours. So, I’m supposed to just roll over and let her take what’s mine. The words were out before she could stop them.

 And they hung there, heavy with meaning she hadn’t intended. Damen’s eyes darkened. Yours? The title, she said quickly. I meant the title. But they both knew that wasn’t quite true. The mate bond pulsed between them, warm and insistent. Arya felt it pulling at her, urging her closer to him. Her wolf wanted to submit, to accept, to curl up in his arms and let him handle everything.

 But Arya had spent her whole life being told she was nothing. She’d be damned if she let some alpha female take away the one thing. however unwanted, that was actually hers. I’m accepting the challenge, she said. No, it’s not your choice. You’re my mate. Everything about you is my choice. The sheer arrogance of that statement should have made her furious.

And it did. But it also sent a thrill through her that she absolutely refused to examine. Then unmake the bond, she challenged. Let me go. Let me walk away and die or live or do whatever I want without you controlling it. I can’t. Won’t can’t. He slammed his hand against the door again and she heard the wood crack.

 You think I haven’t tried? You think I didn’t spend the last 12 hours while you were unconscious trying to find a way out of this? The bond is sealed, complete. There’s no breaking it without killing us both. Then I guess you’re stuck with me. She lifted her chin and I’m accepting Lady Celeste’s challenge. You’ll lose probably.

 She’ll humiliate you in front of the entire council. Most likely. You could get seriously hurt. I’ve been hurt before. She held his gaze. At least this time I’ll be fighting back. Something in his expression shifted. The anger was still there, but underneath it was something else. Something that looked almost like pride. “You’re insane,” he said.

 “I’m an omega who survived 3 years with a partial mark slowly killing me.” She smiled, but there was no humor in it. “Insane is the least of what I am.” A muscle ticked in his jaw. Then, without warning, he leaned down and pressed his forehead against hers. The gesture was so unexpected, so intimate that Arya forgot how to breathe.

 “You’re going to be the death of me,” he murmured. “The feelings mutual.” He pulled back and just like that, the moment shattered. “Richard,” Damian said without looking away from Arya. “Tell the council will be there in 1 hour and find Arya something appropriate to wear. If she’s going to face down a challenge, she’s going to look like a queen doing it.

Richard sputtered something about protocol and proper procedure, but Damen ignored him. 1 hour, he repeated. Then to Arya, don’t make me regret this. Too late, she said. You already do. He almost smiled. Almost. Then he was gone, sweeping out of the room with Richard scrambling to follow. The door closed behind them, leaving Arya alone in chambers that were both a palace and a prison.

She walked to the window and looked out at the northern mountains. Somewhere out there was her old pack. The wolves who’d bullied her ignored her, let her suffer because she was worthless. They’d expected her to fade away, to die quietly like a good little omega. Instead, she was about to become their queen or die trying.

 The thought should have terrified her. Instead, for the first time in years, Arya felt something almost like hope. She pressed her fingers against the mark on her neck, Damen’s mark, not Marcus’ rotting claim, and felt the bond pulse with heat. Whatever happened next, at least she’d go down fighting. And if Lady Celeste wanted to challenge her right to be queen, well, let her try.

 Wanting to see what would happen next? Subscribe to this channel to get to listen to more of our upcoming exciting stories. Click on the subscribe button now. Thank you. Chapter 3. The dress they brought her was a weapon. Deep midnight blue that somehow made her pale skin glow instead of washing her out. Cut to emphasize curves she’d always tried to hide.

 and the neckline low enough to showcase Damian’s claiming mark like a brand of ownership. Arya stared at herself in the full-length mirror and barely recognized the woman looking back. “You clean up nice,” said a voice from the doorway. She spun to find a woman leaning against the frame, arms crossed.

 “Mid-30s, maybe with auburn hair pulled back in a severe bun and eyes that assessed Arya like a general studying a battlefield. I’m Morgan.” The woman pushed off the doorframe. Head of the royal guard. His majesty asked me to escort you to the council chamber. And make sure I don’t run, Arya finished. Morgan’s lips twitched.

 And make sure you don’t die before you get there. Someone’s already tried once. We’d prefer they not succeed on the second attempt, right? Because her life wasn’t complicated enough without assassination attempts. Arya followed Morgan through corridors that seemed designed to intimidate. Every painting was of some stern-faced alpha king from history.

 Every statue depicted a warrior in battle. The message was clear. Weakness had no place here. They were halfway to the council chamber when it happened. The surge hit Arya like lightning through her veins. Power, raw and wild and absolutely terrifying, flooded through her body. Her vision went white. Her knees buckled.

 Morgan caught her before she hit the marble floor. What the hell? The guard’s voice came from very far away. Are you having a seizure? But it wasn’t a seizure. It was something else. Something that made every nerve ending in area’s body light up like she’d touched a live wire. She could feel the stone beneath her feet, the air moving through the corridor, the heartbeats of every living thing in the palace.

 It was too much. Way too much. Then, as suddenly as it started, it stopped. Arya sagged against Morgan, gasping. “What? What was that? I was hoping you’d tell me.” Morgan helped her straighten. Your eyes just went pure silver for a moment. Like the moon itself was looking out through them. That’s impossible. Omegas didn’t have power.

 They were the bottom of the hierarchy for a reason. Weak wolves, weak abilities, weak everything. Except that Serge hadn’t felt weak. We need to tell the Alpha King, Morgan said. No. Arya grabbed her arm. Please. Not yet. Not until I understand what’s happening. Morgan studied her for a long moment. You have until after the council meeting.

 Then I’m telling him whether you like it or not. It was more than Arya had any right to ask for. She nodded. They continued toward the council chamber in silence. The chamber was exactly as intimidating as Arya had feared. 20 wolves sat in a semicircle of raised seats, all of them radiating alpha power.

 At the center, elevated above the rest, was Damian’s throne. And standing at the base of those steps, beautiful and deadly in crimson silk, was Lady Celeste. She looked like war dressed up for a party, blonde hair that fell in perfect waves. A body that belonged on magazine covers, and eyes, cold blue eyes that tracked area’s entrance like a predator watching prey limp into the kill zone.

 The Omega arrives, Celeste announced, her voice carrying through the chamber. How quaint. Arya felt every eye turned to her. Felt the weight of their judgment, their disdain, their absolute certainty that she didn’t belong here. She lifted her chin and walked toward Damen’s throne like she owned the damn place. Damian watched her approach with an expression she couldn’t read.

 He’d changed into formal attire, all black except for the silver crown resting on his dark hair. He looked every inch the king, remote, untouchable. Then his eyes dropped to the claiming mark on her neck, and something possessive flashed across his face. Lady Celeste has issued a formal challenge, announced Richard from his position beside the throne.

 According to ancient law, she has the right to test the queen’s worthiness through trials of I’m aware of the law, Richard. Damian<unk>s voice cut through the chamber like a blade. What I’m not aware of is what gives Lady Celeste the authority to question my choice of mate. With respect, your majesty, Celeste said, and there was nothing respectful in her tone.

 Your choice affects the entire kingdom. An Omega queen is unprecedented, unheard of. Some might say unnatural. Some might say a lot of things. Damian leaned forward slightly. That doesn’t make them true. Then let her prove it. Celeste turned to face Arya directly. Let her show the council that she’s worthy of standing at your side.

 Surely, if the moon goddess truly blessed this union, the Omega will be able to pass a few simple tests. The way she said Omega made it sound like a curse. I accept your challenge,” Arya said before Damen could respond. The chamber erupted in whispers. Damen’s eyes narrowed. They discussed this, or rather, he’d ordered her not to accept, and she’d ignored him.

 But he couldn’t countermand her now without making them both look weak. “Very well.” Celeste’s smile was all teeth. “The first trial begins. Tomorrow,” Damian interrupted. Arya has been recovering from a serious medical condition. She’ll have 24 hours to prepare. Medical condition. One of the council members, an older alpha with graying hair, leaned forward.

 What kind of medical condition? Arya saw Damian’s jaw titan. He didn’t want to reveal the incomplete bond. She realized didn’t want the council knowing someone had already tried to destroy her before she’d even arrived. Nothing that concerns the council, Damian said. With respect, your majesty, everything about your mate concerns us.

 The councilman’s eyes fixed on Arya, especially if she’s too weak to even survive the mate bond. That was when the second surge hit. This time, Arya felt it building. Felt the power rising up from somewhere deep inside her, demanding release. Her vision started to blur at the edges, silver creeping in like moonlight through fog.

 No, not here. Not in front of everyone. She dug her nails into her palms, using the pain to anchor herself. The power responded, pulling back like a wild animal she’d somehow leashed. But not before every wolf in the chamber felt it. The change in the room was instant. Alpha sat up straighter, heads turned, and Celeste’s confident smile faltered for just a moment.

 What was that? The gray-haired councilman demanded. I don’t know what you’re talking about, Arya lied. Don’t insult our intelligence. Another council member, a woman with sharp features and sharper eyes, stood. We all felt that surge of power. That was Omega energy, but it was wrong. too strong. “Maybe your perception is wrong,” Arya shot back.

 “The trial is postponed until tomorrow,” Damian announced, rising from his throne. The command and his voice made even the council members sit back down. “This session is over. Your majesty, I said, “It’s over.” He descended the steps and held out his hand to Arya. Come. She took it, and the moment their skin touched, she felt it.

 That bond between them thrumming with energy, his power recognizing hers. Alpha meeting, whatever she was. They’d almost reached the chamber doors when a new voice stopped them. If I may, your majesty. An ancient wolf emerged from the shadows at the back of the chamber. He wore simple brown robes and leaned heavily on a gnarled walking stick.

 But his eyes, his eyes were sharp as broken glass. Elder Thomas. Damian inclined his head with genuine respect. I didn’t realize you were attending. I wasn’t planning to. The old wolf’s gaze fixed on Arya. Until I felt that. Felt what? Arya asked, though she was pretty sure she knew. The awakening.

 Elder Thomas moved closer, his steps slow but steady. Tell me child, have you been experiencing surges of power? Moments where you can feel everything and everyone around you. Aria’s silence was answer enough. Fascinating. The elder circled her slowly and the mark on your shoulder, the partial bond that was killing you. When did it appear? 3 years ago.

 Arya glanced at Damian who looked as confused as she felt. Why does that matter? Because three years ago, you turned 18. Elder Thomas stopped in front of her. The age when bloodline abilities typically manifest. I don’t have bloodline abilities. I’m an Omega. You’re descended from the lunar priestess line. The elder corrected.

 The last of them, unless I’m very much mistaken. The chamber went absolutely silent. That’s impossible. Celeste said. The lunar priestesses died out centuries ago. They were murdered. Elder Thomas corrected, systematically hunted down and destroyed by alphas who feared their power.

 The priestesses were omegas who could channel the moon goddess’s energy directly. They could see the future, influence the bond between mates, even command alphas to submit to their will. Arya felt the blood drain from her face. You’re saying I’m a lunar priestess or you would be if your abilities hadn’t been suppressed.

 The elder turned to address the council. The partial mark on her shoulder, it wasn’t just poisoning her body. It was actively suppressing her power, keeping it locked away so it couldn’t awaken. Why would someone do that? Damian’s voice had gone dangerously quiet. Because a lunar priestess is the only omega powerful enough to truly rule as queen.

 Elder Thomas met Damen’s eyes. Someone didn’t want that to happen. Damian’s office was a war room masquerading as a study. Maps covered one wall. Reports and files stacked on every surface. And in the center, a massive desk where Damen now sat, his laptop open, going through records with the intensity of a man hunting prey. Arya paced.

 She’d been pacing for the last 30 minutes while Damen pulled up everything he could find about Beta Marcus. Marcus Kain. Damen read from the screen. Beta of the Silver Moon Pack, age 27. Engaged to Alpha Donovan’s daughter, Cara. He looked up large deposit into his account 3 years ago. $50,000. Source unknown. Someone paid him to mark me.

 Ariel’s stomach turned to poison me before my powers could awaken. That’s exactly what happened. Morgan stood by the door, arms crossed. She’d insisted on being present for this conversation. The question is who paid him. And who’s still trying to finish the job? Damian added grimly. He’d filled Morgan in on Elder Thomas’s revelation, about the lunar priestess bloodline, about the suppression, about everything.

The guard had taken it with the calm of someone used to impossible situations. Celeste is the obvious suspect, Morgan said. She has motive. She wanted to be queen. She has means. Her family has connections everywhere. And she certainly has opportunity. It’s not Celeste. Damian’s voice was certain.

 How can you be sure? Because she challenges directly. Always has. He pulled up another file. When Celeste wants something, she takes it headon. Poisoning and assassination aren’t her style. People change, Arya said quietly. Not that much. Damian’s eyes met hers. Trust me, I know her. This isn’t her. The jealousy that flared in Arya’s chest was completely unreasonable and completely undeniable.

So if not Celeste, then who? She forced herself to focus. Who else benefits from me being dead? Anyone who wants the royal line to remain pure alpha bloodlines. Morgan moved to study the maps, which unfortunately is about half the kingdom. We need to find whoever paid Marcus. Damian stood closing his laptop with decisive click and we need to keep Arya alive long enough to do it.

 I can protect myself. Arya started. Can you? Damian moved around the desk toward her. Can you control that power that’s been waking up inside you? Because from where I stood, it looked like you could barely hold it back. He wasn’t wrong. The surges were getting stronger, more frequent, and she had no idea what to do with them.

 Elder Thomas can teach you, Damian continued. Help you understand what you are and how to use it. And if I don’t want to use it, the words burst out before she could stop them. If I just want to be normal, you stopped being normal the moment the moon goddess gave you that bloodline. His hand came up to cup her cheek, and the touch sent warmth flooding through her, and the moment she made you mine.

 The possessiveness in that last word should have annoyed her. Instead, it made something deep in her chest purr with satisfaction. Before either of them could say anything else, the door burst open. Richard stumbled in, his face pale. Your Majesty, there’s been an incident. Damian’s hand dropped from Arya’s face.

What kind of incident? A maid just collapsed in the kitchen. She was preparing Miss Thorne’s dinner. Richard’s voice shook slightly. She’s dead, your majesty. Poisoned. The room went cold. Someone put poison in my food, Arya said slowly. And the maid died testing it. Damen’s expression had gone absolutely lethal.

Get Dr. Reeves down there. I want to know exactly what kind of poison and where it came from. And locked down the kitchen. No one in or out without my explicit permission. Richard nodded and fled. Morgan was already moving toward Arya. We need to get you somewhere safe. Nowhere in this palace is safe.

 Damen’s eyes blazed with fury. Not while whoever’s behind this is still here. Then we draw them out. Arya heard herself say it before she’d fully thought it through. We make them think they succeeded. Both Damian and Morgan turned to stare at her. “Absolutely not,” Damian said. “It’s the only way.” Aria’s mind was racing now, pieces clicking together.

 We announced that I’ve been poisoned, that I’m in critical condition. Whoever’s behind this will make a move, either to finish the job or to celebrate their success. Either way, we’ll have them. You want to make yourself bait? Damian moved closer, crowding her against his desk. You want to paint a target on your back and see who takes the shot.

 I already have a target on my back. She lifted her chin. At least this way, I’m choosing when and where it appears. No, it’s not your decision. The hell it isn’t. His hands came up to frame her face, holding her still. You’re my mate, my queen, and I don’t use people I care about as bait. The words hung in the air between them. You care about me.

 Aria’s voice came out smaller than she’d intended. Damian’s jaw tightened. Don’t read into it. Kind of hard not to when you just said it in front of witnesses. Morgan cleared her throat. I can step outside if stay. Damian didn’t look away from Arya. We’re doing this by the book. Extra guards on Arya at all times.

 I want the kitchen staff interrogated. And I want a list of everyone who’s entered the palace in the last 48 hours. And Lady Celeste, Morgan asked. Keep an eye on her. But quietly, Damian finally released Arya and stepped back. If she is involved, I don’t want to spook her into running.

 And the council meeting tomorrow, Arya asked. The challenge still happening. Damian’s expression was granite, but with new rules. No trial by combat. No physical tests that could be sabotaged. If Celeste wants to challenge you, it’ll be through tests of knowledge and leadership. She’ll call that favoritism. I don’t give a damn what she calls it.

He moved to pour himself a drink from the bar in the corner. She can either accept the new terms or withdraw her challenge. She won’t withdraw. Then she’ll lose. He downed the whiskey in one swallow. Because you’re going to show that council exactly what a lunar priestess can do. Arya wanted to argue, wanted to point out that she couldn’t control her power, that she had no idea what she was doing, that putting her in front of the council was a disaster waiting to happen.

 But the look in Damian’s eyes stopped her. It wasn’t the cold indifference from before. Or the anger at being saddled with a weak mate. It was something else, something that looked almost like belief. He believed she could do this, which was insane because she didn’t even believe it herself. The council reconvened at dawn.

Arya had spent the night with Elder Thomas, who tried to explain the basics of lunar priestess abilities. It had mostly involved a lot of meditation, some herbal tea that tasted like dirt, and a lecture about channeling the moon’s energy that had made exactly zero sense. But when she’d finally fallen asleep in the early hours, she dreamed.

In the dream, she’d been standing in a temple made of moonlight, and a woman, tall and regal with eyes that glowed silver, had taken her hand. “You are not weak,” the woman had said. “You are what they feared.” “Remember that.” Now, standing before the council again, Arya tried to hold on to that feeling.

 The chamber was even more crowded than yesterday. Word had spread about the lunar priestess revelation, about the poisoning attempt, about everything. Every seat was filled. And standing in the gallery, watching with undisguised contempt, was Lady Celeste. The challenge will proceed under modified terms, Richard announced.

 Lady Celeste will present three scenarios requiring judgment and wisdom. Miss Thorne will provide her solutions. The council will determine if her answers demonstrate the qualities necessary in a queen. And if I find the new terms unacceptable, Celeste’s voice rang out. Then you withdraw your challenge, Damian said from his throne.

 His voice left no room for argument. Those are your options. For a moment, Arya thought Celeste would refuse, would storm out rather than accept the changed rules. Then she smiled. Very well. Let’s see what the Omega knows. The first scenario was about trade disputes. Arya answered carefully, drawing on her years of watching pack politics play out.

 The second was about managing internal pack conflicts. She spoke about balance, about hearing all sides, about justice tempered with mercy. With each answer, she felt the council’s surprise. They’d expected her to flounder. to prove them right about omegas being too weak to lead. Instead, she was showing them something else entirely.

The third scenario was different. A member of your own pack stands accused of treason, Celeste announced. There’s evidence they’ve been selling information to your enemies. But they’re also your mate’s closest friend, someone the Alpha King trusts implicitly. Her smile was razor sharp. What do you do? It was a trap.

Arya could see it clearly. Answer that she’d prosecute and she’d look disloyal to Damian. Answer that she’d protect the friend and she’d look weak on treason. The council leaned forward, waiting. Arya took a breath and felt that power inside her, that lunar priestess energy rise up like a tide.

 I’d find out why, she said quietly. The chamber went silent. Excuse me. Celeste’s smile faltered. I’d find out why they did it. Aria’s voice grew stronger. Because someone the Alpha King trusts implicitly doesn’t commit treason without a reason. Either they’re being coerced, blackmailed, threatened, forced to choose between loyalties, or that evidence is planted to destroy that trust and weaken the king.

She turned to address the council directly. You want to know if I’m worthy to be queen? Here’s what I know. Ruling isn’t about making easy choices. It’s about understanding that nothing is ever simple. That justice without wisdom is just cruelty by another name. And that sometimes the strongest thing you can do is admit you don’t have all the answers.

The power inside her pulsed, responding to her emotion. And for just a moment, her eyes flashed silver. Every wolf in the chamber felt it. But here’s what else I know, Arya continued. And now there was steel in her voice. I know that someone tried to kill me 3 years ago by poisoning me with an incomplete bond.

 I know that someone tried again yesterday by putting poison in my food. And I know that whoever’s behind it is in this palace, possibly in this room. She let her gaze sweep across the council. So before you question whether I’m worthy to be your queen, maybe ask yourselves this. who’s afraid enough of an omega to want her dead because that says a lot more about them than it does about me. Silence fell like snow.

 Then slowly Damian rose from his throne. He descended the steps with that predatory grace, every eye tracking him. And when he reached Arya, he didn’t stop, didn’t hesitate. He pulled her against him and kissed her in front of the entire council. It wasn’t gentle, wasn’t sweet. It was claiming and possessive and absolutely deliberate.

 When he finally pulled back, his voice carried through the chamber like thunder. “This is my queen and my mate.” The words rang with command and absolute finality, and the next person who questions her right to either title answers to me personally. The threat was clear and deadly serious. Damian turned to face the council, keeping Arya tucked against his side.

The challenge is over. Arya has proven herself more than worthy. His eyes found Celeste in the gallery. Unless anyone else wants to step forward. No one moved. Good. He looked at Richard. Draft an official announcement. The coronation will take place in one week. Your Majesty. Richard stammered. A week isn’t enough time to “One week,” Damian repeated.

 “And I want extra security on Arya at all times. If anyone so much as looks at her wrong, I want to know about it.” He started to lead Arya from the chamber, then stopped. “Oh, and Richard, find Beta Marcus Cain. I want him brought to the palace in chains if necessary.” “Yes, your majesty.” As they walked out, Arya could feel every eye on them, could feel the weight of what had just happened.

 Damian had just publicly claimed her, defended her, called her his queen with a ferocity that left no room for doubt. And somewhere in this palace, whoever wanted her dead was now going to be even more desperate. But as Damian’s hand tightened on hers, Arya realized something. She wasn’t afraid anymore. Let them come. She was done running.

 If you’re still listening to this story up to this point, why don’t you subscribe to this channel to continue getting impactful daily stories like this? We would be most grateful if you can do that to help boost this video to reach everyone. Thank you. Chapter 4. The power hit Arya at breakfast. One moment she was picking at her eggs under the watchful eyes of three guards Damian had assigned to her.

 And the next she was drowning in emotion that wasn’t hers. Fear from the young maid pouring coffee. Resentment from the guard by the door. And something darker from the chef who’d prepared the meal. A twisted satisfaction that tasted like poison on her tongue. Aria’s fork clattered to her plate. Stop. Everyone froze. You.

 She pointed at the chef without looking up, her eyes squeezed shut against the onslaught of feelings flooding through her. “What did you put in this food?” “Nothing, my lady.” But his voice carried the acurid taste of lies. Arya could feel it thick and oily and wrong. “You’re lying.” She opened her eyes, and the world had gone strange. Silver threads connected every person in the room to her, pulsing with their emotions like visible heartbeats.

Tell me the truth. The words came out layered with power. Command and compulsion woven together. The chef’s face went slack. Nightshade extract, he said in a monotone. In the tea. The guards moved instantly. Two grabbed the chef while the third swept the entire breakfast service off the table, sending porcelain crashing to the floor.

 Arya barely noticed. She was too busy trying to breathe through the sensations still pouring into her. She could feel everyone in the palace. Hundreds of wolves, their emotions bleeding into hers like watercolors running together. Joy and anger and grief and desire and fear and too much. It was too much. Get the alpha king. Someone was shouting.

Get him now. Then Damian was there, his hands on her face, his scent wrapping around her like a shield. Look at me, he commanded. Arya, look at me. She forced her eyes to focus on his. And the moment their gazes locked, something clicked into place. The overwhelming flood of emotion pulled back like a tide, leaving her gasping.

What’s happening to me? Her voice broke. Your abilities are manifesting. He pulled her against his chest and she could feel his heart racing. Elder Thomas warned this might happen. The more you use your power, the stronger it gets. I can feel everyone. She fisted her hands in his shirt. Every emotion, every lie, every everything.

 Then we teach you control. His hands stroked down her back. But first, he looked over his shoulder at the guards holding the chef. “Who paid you?” The chef’s mouth snapped shut, but Arya could feel the answer sitting behind his teeth, fighting to get out. She pulled away from Damian and faced the man directly. “Tell us who paid you.

” Again, that compulsion in her voice, that power that demanded truth. The chef’s resistance crumbled like sand. Prince Kale. He paid me $5,000 to put poison in anything meant for the Omega. The room went absolutely silent. My brother Damian said slowly, dangerously hired you to kill my mate. He said it had to look like an accident.

 That he protect me if I was caught. The chef was sweating now, words pouring out like water. He said the Omega was dangerous. That she destroy the kingdom if she became queen. Arya felt Damen’s rage before she saw it. Felt it building inside him like a nuclear bomb waiting to detonate. Where is Kale now? His voice had gone deadly quiet. I don’t know, your majesty.

I swear I don’t. He’s in the east wing, Arya interrupted. She could feel it through those silver threads connecting her to everyone in the palace. Could trace them back to their sources like following a map only she could see. with 12 other wolves there planning something. Damian’s eyes snapped to hers. Are you certain? She nodded.

 And she was. She could feel Kale<unk>’s presence like a dark stain on the other side of the palace. Could feel his anticipation, his certainty, his absolute conviction that he was about to win. Morgan. Damian barked. The guard captain appeared in the doorway. already armed. “Sir,” Kale’s in the east wing with a dozen wolves.

 “Gather your team,” Anne, “It’s too late,” Arya whispered because she could feel them moving now. Feel Kale<unk>’s satisfaction sharpening into action. “They’re coming here.” The explosion took out the breakfast room’s main door. Arya found herself shoved behind Damian as smoke and debris filled the air. Through the chaos, she watched wolves pour into the room.

 All of them wearing the crimson armband of House Blackwood. Damian’s own family crest turned against him. And walking through the smoke like an avenging angel was Kale. He looked like a darker version of Damian. Same height, same build, same predatory grace. But where Damian’s eyes were silver, Kales were black as Midnight.

And where Damian’s face showed control, Kale showed triumph. Brother, Kale said warmly. We need to talk. They’ve been moved to the throne room. Kale<unk>’s wolves had surrounded them efficiently, professionally. No one had been killed yet, but the message was clear. This wasn’t a request.

 Now Arya sat beside Damian’s throne, her hands bound with silver chains that burned against her skin. Damian sat on the throne itself also chained his face carved from granite. Morgan and her guards were on their knees in front of the deis held at swordpoint and Kale stood at the base of the steps looking up at his brother with something almost like pity.

 You always were too honorable for your own good. Kale said father knew it. That’s why he made me swear I protect the kingdom from your weakness. Father made you swear to serve your king. Damian’s voice could have frozen fire. Not stage a coup. I am serving. Kale began climbing the steps slowly by removing a threat to our bloodline.

 An Omega queen, Damian. Really? You dilute centuries of alpha heritage for a mate bond. Careful, Damian said softly. You’re talking about my queen. I’m talking about an abomination. Kale<unk>’s mask of civility cracked. The lunar priestesses were destroyed for a reason. They were too powerful, too dangerous. They could make Alpha’s gravel, could manipulate bonds, could turn the natural order on its head.

 So, you tried to kill her. Ariel’s voice rang out across the throne room. You paid Marcus to mark me three years ago, to poison me before I could ever meet Damian. Kale<unk>’s smile was all teeth. Very good. Yes, I had visions, you see. Dreams sent by wolves who still practice the old magic. They showed me a lunar priestess rising.

Showed me her standing beside my brother, making him unstoppable. He turned to face the gathered crowd, council members, guards, staff, all held by Kale<unk>’s wolves. I couldn’t allow that. So, I found the priestess before she knew what she was. Had her marked by a beta fool who thought he was getting paid for a simple job.

 The incomplete bond should have killed her slowly, quietly. But it didn’t, Arya said. Her power was rising again. That silver sight showing her the threads connecting Kale to his wolves. Showing her something else, too. Something dark wrapped around Damian like chains she couldn’t see. because you’d already cursed Damian.

 The room went deadly silent. Kale<unk>’s expression shifted. How did you? I can see it. Arya stood despite her chains. There’s a curse wrapped around him. Old magic. Death magic. Any mate he claimed was supposed to die. She turned to look at Damian and her heart cracked at the understanding in his eyes. You knew.

 You knew there was a curse. I suspected. Damian’s voice was rough. Three years ago, I met a she wolf at a summit. Felt the maid bond snap into place. Within a week, she was dead. Heart failure, the doctor said. That was me, Kale said almost cheerfully. Took me months to find a witch willing to cast it. Cost me a fortune.

 But it was worth it to ensure you’d never have a mate to strengthen your reign. You killed an innocent woman. Morgan’s voice shook with rage. I killed a liability. Kale shrugged just like I tried to kill this one. But somehow, impossibly, she survived both the partial mark and the curse. His eyes fixed on Arya with something like fascination.

Your lunar priestess blood is stronger than I anticipated. It countered the death magic. Broke through the poison. “You should be dead three times over.” “Sorry to disappoint,” Arya said flatly. “Oh, you won’t for much longer.” Kale pulled out a knife and silver light glinted along its edge.

 “Because I’m done playing games.” He moved faster than thought, crossing the distance between them in a blur. Arya felt rather than saw Damian surge against his chains, roaring with fury. But Kale wasn’t going for her. He pressed the silver blade against Damian’s throat hard enough to draw blood. Here’s what’s going to happen. Kale announced to the room.

 Damian is going to abdicate. He’s going to renounce his claim to the throne and name me king. And then he’s going to take his little Omega mate and leave this kingdom forever. And if I refuse, Damian’s voice was steady despite the blade at his throat. Then I kill her in front of you. Kale gestured to Arya slowly, painfully.

And you get to watch your mate die knowing you could have saved her. Don’t. Arya strained against her chains. Damian, don’t you dare. If I abdicate, you let her live. Damian interrupted. You let her go free. You have my word as a Blackwood. Kale<unk>’s smile was vicious. Leave the kingdom and never return.

 And I’ll let the Omega live out her days in obscurity. No, Arya shouted. Don’t do this. Don’t give up everything for you. Damian’s eyes met hers across the throne room. I’d give up anything for you. The silver threads connecting them pulsed with his absolute certainty, his devotion, his love.

 Even if he’d never said the words out loud, “Damian, please. I, Damian Blackwood, Alpha King of the Northern Territory,” he began, “Stop!” The command and Aria’s voice shook the throne room’s foundations. Power exploded from her like a shock wave. The silver chains binding her hands shattered. Every wolf in the room dropped to their knees except for Damian and Kale.

 An area’s eyes blazed pure silver as she stepped forward. You want to know what a lunar priestess can do. Her voice echoed with something ancient and terrible. Let me show you. She raised her hands and those invisible threads connecting her to everyone became visible. Silver lines of pure moonlight stretching from her fingertips to every wolf in the palace.

I can feel every bond in this room. Every connection between souls. She focused on Kale, including the lies you’re wrapped in. What are you? You said you were protecting the kingdom. Aria’s power surged, pulling at the threads around Kale. But that’s not why you did this. Show them. Show them the real reason.

 I don’t know what you’re talking about. Show them. The compulsion in her voice was absolute, undeniable. And suddenly, images poured from Kale<unk>’s mind into the room itself, visible to everyone watching. Memories made manifest by lunar priestess power. They saw Kale as a child watching his father praise Damian. Saw the jealousy eating at him.

 They saw him as a teenager, learning his father had chosen Damian to inherit despite Kale being older. They saw him years later meeting with other wolves who thought the kingdom should be ruled by the strongest, not the eldest. Planning, plotting, and they saw the curse being cast. Saw Kale smile as the witch promised that any mate Damian claimed would die within days.

“You didn’t do this for the kingdom,” Arya said, her voice ringing with power and condemnation. “You did it because you couldn’t stand being second. Because you spent your entire life in Damian’s shadow, and you thought removing his mate would weaken him enough for you to take everything he had.

 So what if I did? Kale snarled, abandoning all pretense. I’m stronger, more ruthless, a better king than he could ever be. Then prove it. Arya took another step forward. I challenge you to Luna’s judgment. The throne room erupted in gasps and whispers. You can’t, Kale said. That right hasn’t been performed in centuries because there haven’t been any lunar priestesses in centuries.

 Arya felt the power flowing through her, ancient and certain. But I’m standing here now and I’m invoking the oldest law of our kind. The law that says when truth is in question, the moon goddess herself will judge. Arya, no. Damian had finally broken free of his own chains. Luna’s judgment is a death right. One of you dies.

 I know she didn’t look away from Kale. But it’s the only way to prove what he is. The only way to show everyone that he’s been lying since the beginning. You’ll die, Kale said. But there was uncertainty in his eyes. Now you’re an omega. weak, untrained. Even with your priestess blood, you can’t accept the challenge or be named a coward in front of your own wolves.

” Arya’s voice cut through his protests. “Those are your choices.” For a long moment, Kale said nothing. Then his smile returned, sharp and cruel. “Fine, I accept your challenge.” He spread his arms wide. Let the moon goddess judge between us. When you’re dead, maybe my brother will finally understand that mercy is weakness.

No. Damian moved to stand beside Arya. His presence solid and strong. If you’re doing this, I’m standing with you. You can’t interfere in Luna’s judgment. Kale said. The right forbids it. I’m not interfering. Damian took Arya’s hand. But I’m not leaving her side either. Let the goddess strike me down if she has a problem with that.

 Arya felt tears prick her eyes. Felt the bond between them blaze with his absolute certainty, his unwavering support. Together then, she whispered, “Always,” he replied. Elder Thomas pushed through the crowd, his ancient face grave. If you’re truly invoking Luna’s judgment, you’ll need a witness.

 Someone to speak the words of binding. Will you? Arya asked. The old wolf studied her for a long moment. Then he nodded. I will. Though I pray the goddess shows mercy on us all. He moved to the center of the throne room and began chanting in a language Arya didn’t recognize. Old words, power words, words that made the air itself shimmer with magic.

 The throne room’s windows exploded inward as moonlight poured in. Impossible moonlight since it was barely noon. But the light was undeniable, silver and pure and absolutely divine. It coalesed into a column in the center of the room, and within that light, a figure began to form.

 A woman tall and regal with eyes that held all the stars in the sky. Power radiated from her like heat from a forge. The moon goddess herself. Every wolf in the room dropped to their knees. Even Damian bowed his head in respect. Only Arya remained standing, held upright by the same power flowing through her veins. “You have called for judgment,” the goddess said, her voice echoing from everywhere and nowhere.

State your accusation, priestess. Aria’s voice shook but held. Prince Kale Blackwood stands accused of murder, conspiracy, and treason against the rightful alpha king. He cursed his own brother, paid to have me marked and poisoned, staged a coup to steal the throne, and he did all of it for power, not protection.

 The goddess turned her gaze to Kale. And you? Do you deny these accusations? I deny nothing. Kale lifted his chin defiantly. I did what was necessary to save the kingdom from my brother’s weakness, from the threat of a priestess queen. You did what was necessary to satisfy your own ambition. The goddess’s voice was gentle but absolute.

 You wrapped your jealousy in righteousness and called it justice. She raised one hand and Kale screamed. The dark magic wrapped around him became visible. Black threads eating into his soul like acid. The curses he’d cast, the lives he destroyed, every wrong deed written on his very essence.

 You have been judged, the goddess said, and found wanting. No. Kale collapsed to his knees. No, I did what was right. I protected the pack from from nothing but your own inadequacy. The goddess turned away from him, dismissing him entirely. Your wolves are released from their oaths to you. Your claim to House Blackwood is revoked and your life is forfeit. Wait.

 Damian stepped forward. Goddess with respect. He’s still my brother. The divine being studied him. You would show him mercy after everything he’s done. I would show him justice. Damian’s voice was steady. Execution is too easy. Let him live, stripped of title, power, and honor. Let him watch what he tried to destroy flourish without him.

 For a long moment, the goddess said nothing. Then she smiled. You will make a wise king, Damian Blackwood. She turned back to Kale. Your life is spared at your brother’s request. But you are cast out from your family, from your pack, from your kingdom. You will bear a mark that brands you oathbreaker, and no pack will take you in. This is your sentence.

 She raised her hand again, and Kale screamed as a mark burned itself onto his forehead, a broken chain visible even after the light faded. As for you, priestess. The goddess moved toward Arya and every instinct screamed at her to run. You have done well. Better than I hoped when I chose you for this path. You chose me.

Arya’s voice came out small. The lunar priestess bloodline has always been mine to guide. And you are the strongest I have seen in centuries. The goddess reached out and touched Arya’s cheek. Your children will be powerful. Your legacy will reshape the kingdom and your mate. She glanced at Damian. He will be the king who brings balance between alpha and omega between power and wisdom.

 She began to fade, the moonlight dimming. Wait, Arya called? What about the curse? The one on Damian, already broken. The goddess’s smile was radiant. It shattered the moment you claimed him in return. True love always breaks curses. Priestess, remember that. Then she was gone, taking the impossible moonlight with her.

 The throne room remained silent for three full heartbeats. Then Damian pulled Arya into his arms and kissed her like she was the only real thing in his world. And maybe she was. When they finally broke apart, Kale was being dragged away by guards. His wolves had surrendered, looking lost without their leader.

 And the council members were staring at Arya with something that looked almost like awe. Well, Elder Thomas said dryly. I suppose that settles the question of whether an Omega can be queen. Arya laughed. Actually laughed. Because it was that or cry. And she’d done enough crying. Guess it does, she said. Damian tucked her against his side, and she felt his relief through their bond, his joy, his absolute certainty that she was his and he was hers, and nothing would ever come between them again.

 “Your Majesty,” Richard approached cautiously. “There’s still the matter of the coronation, and the formal investigation into Prince Kale<unk>’s conspirators, and the trade agreements that need can all wait until tomorrow.” Damian cut him off. Right now I’m taking my mate somewhere private and reminding her exactly why she agreed to put up with me. I never agreed. Arya pointed out.

You bit me while I was unconscious. Remember details? He swept her up into his arms, making her yelp. Besides, you’re stuck with me now. The moon goddess said so as he carried her from the throne room past bowing council members and stunned guards and one grinning Elder Thomas. Arya let herself relax for the first time since waking up in his chambers.

She was the weakest Omega in the kingdom and the most powerful lunar priestess in centuries. She was going to be queen and she’d just been blessed by the moon goddess herself. It was insane, impossible. But as Damian’s lips found hers again, Arya decided she didn’t care. Some things were worth the impossible.

Some things, like the alpha king currently carrying her toward their chambers with very clear intentions, were worth everything. If you’re still listening to this story up to this point, why don’t you subscribe to this channel to continue getting impactful daily stories like this? We would be most grateful if you can do that to help boost this video to reach everyone.

Thank you. Chapter 5. The bedroom door had barely closed behind them when Damian set Arya on her feet and kissed her again. Deeper this time, slower. Like he had all the time in the world and intended to use every second of it memorizing the taste of her. We should talk about what just happened. Arya managed between kisses.

Later, his mouth moved to her neck, right over the claiming mark that had started all of this. Much later, she wanted to agree, wanted to lose herself in the heat building between them, in the mate bond that sang through her veins like music. But something was wrong. That silver sight, the one that showed her emotional threads and hidden truths, kept flickering.

 And every time it did, she saw something that shouldn’t be there. A shadow, dark and ancient, wrapped around Damian’s heart like a fist. Wait. She pushed against his chest. Damian, wait. He pulled back immediately, concern replacing desire. What is it? Did I hurt you? No, it’s She pressed her hand against his chest, feeling his heart race beneath her palm.

The curse. The one Kale put on you. The goddess said it was broken, but I can still see it. Damian’s expression went carefully neutral. You can see curses now. I can see everything now. And it was true. Ever since Luna’s judgment, her power had been different, stronger, like something fundamental had changed in her very essence.

 And there’s something still wrapped around your heart. Dark magic that’s been there so long it’s almost part of you. She watched his jaw tighten. The goddess said. The goddess said the curse was broken. But breaking something isn’t the same as removing it. Aria’s eyes blazed silver as she let her power rise. The death magic is still there.

 Dormant now, but not gone. It’s waiting. Waiting for what? For you to be happy. The truth hit her like ice water. That’s how Kale designed it. The curse triggers when you finally find peace. When you think you’re safe. When you love someone enough to let your guard down. Damian’s face went pale. Then we can’t. Don’t. Arya cut him off.

Don’t you dare say we can’t be together. Not after everything. If being with you triggers the curse, then we remove the curse. She pressed both hands against his chest. now power flowing through her fingertips. I’m not just any Omega anymore, Damian. The goddess called me the strongest priestess in centuries.

If I can break Kale<unk>’s hold, I can break this, too. Arya, if you’re wrong, I’m not. She met his eyes. Trust me, please. For a long moment, he said nothing. Then he covered her hands with his own. always,” he said quietly. Arya closed her eyes and let her power dive deep, past skin and bone, past the physical entirely down into the spiritual essence of him, the part that was pure alpha, pure Damian, pure mate, and there it was, the curse wrapped around his heart like barbed wire.

Kale<unk>’s magic, twisted and dark, designed to activate the moment Damen’s happiness reached a certain threshold. The moment he truly completely loved someone, it would have killed him and whoever he loved with him. “You bastard,” Arya whispered, fury building. “You absolute bastard.” She could feel Kale<unk>’s signature on the curse.

Could trace it back to the moment it was cast. Damian kneeling in a witch’s circle, thinking he was being cleansed of some minor hex, not knowing his own brother had paid for his death. The rage that filled Arya was incandescent, and with it came power like she’d never felt before.

 It exploded from her core, not silver now, but pure white light. It poured through Damian, burning away the curse like sunlight through shadow. She felt it scream as it died, felt Kale<unk>’s magic shatter into nothing. But as the curse broke, something else happened. Memories flooded into her. Not hers. Not Damians. Ancient memories.

Centuries old. Memories of a woman standing in a temple of moonlight, power blazing from her fingertips as she healed a dying alpha. Memories of that same woman training other omegas, teaching them to channel the goddess’s power. Memories of betrayal and fire and murder as alpha wolves decided that priestesses were too dangerous to live.

 And the woman’s final words before she died. I will return when the balance is threatened. When the kingdom needs healing, I will return. Aria’s eyes snapped open. I’m her. What? Damian was staring at her and she realized she was glowing. Actual light radiating from her skin like she’d swallowed the moon. The first lunar priestess. The one who started it all.

Her voice sounded strange even to her own ears. Layered like multiple people speaking at once. She didn’t just pass down her bloodline. She put her soul into it, waiting for the right moment, the right crisis to be reborn. Arya, I’m the reincarnation of the original priestess. The truth settled into her bones. Absolute and undeniable.

That’s why I survived the partial mark. Why the curse couldn’t kill me? Why my power is so much stronger than it should be? The glow around her intensified, and Damian had to look away. I can see everything now, Arya continued. Every crime Kale committed. Every wolf he bribed or threatened or killed. Every deal he made in the shadows.

 She turned toward the window, but she wasn’t seeing the palace grounds. She was seeing beyond into the throne room where Kale was being held into the minds of his conspirators into the truth of everything he’d done. The pack needs to see this, she said. They need to know exactly what he is. How? Damian asked.

 They’ll just think we’re lying. That we’re trying to justify executing my brother. Arya smiled. And it was the ancient priestess’s smile as much as her own. Then I’ll show them all of them at once. She raised her hands and the world went white. Every wolf in the palace. Every guard, every servant, every council member suddenly found themselves standing in the throne room.

 Not physically. Their bodies remained where they were. But their consciousness, their awareness had been pulled to this one space. What’s happening? someone shouted. The Omega, another voice answered. She’s doing this. Arya stood in the center of the throne room, glowing with divine light. Beside her, equally present in this spiritual vision, was Damian.

 And kneeling on the floor between them, held by guards who existed in both the physical and spiritual realm, was Kale. You want proof of his crimes? Aria’s voice echoed through every mind present. then witness. She gestured and the air filled with images. They saw Kale meeting with a dark witch three years ago. Saw him describe Damian in detail.

 Saw the witch smile as she explained the curse. Saw Kale pay her in blood soaked gold and promise her sanctuary if anyone discovered what she’d done. They saw him receiving visions of Arya. Saw him track down Marcus and pay the beta to mark her to poison her slowly. saw him laugh when Marcus reported that the Omega was growing weaker by the day.

 They saw the first assassination attempt. A sheolf Damian had met at a summit, her heart giving out mysteriously. Saw Kale watching from the shadows as Damian mourned. They saw him planning the coup, recruiting wolves who thought Alphas should rule alone, who feared Omega power, who believed strength meant cruelty.

 And they saw his final plan to let Damian abdicate. then hunt him down and kill him anyway. Because Kale had never intended to let his brother live. The images faded, leaving Stun’s silence in their wake. “These are lies,” Kale snarled. “Ticks and manipulation from an Omega who can no longer lie in the presence of the moon goddess’s reborn priestess,” Elder Thomas interrupted.

 He was one of the few wolves physically present, standing beside Arya with his head bowed in reverence. Those visions came directly from your own memories, your own thoughts. You cannot deny what we all witnessed. He’s right. Lady Celeste emerged from the crowd, and Arya was surprised to see tears streaming down the alpha female’s face.

 I’d been investigating Kale for months since before the mate selection ceremony. Every eye turned to her. I thought Damian was involved. Celeste continued. thought maybe he was planning to eliminate Omega bloodlines entirely. So, I started gathering evidence, looking for proof. Her laugh was bitter. Instead, I found proof that Kale had been sabotaging his own brother for years, paying off council members, threatening anyone who showed Damian too much loyalty.

 She pulled a folder from inside her jacket. How she had it in this spiritual vision, Arya wasn’t sure, but the magic made it possible. bank records, letters, testimony from three different wolves Kale tried to recruit. Celeste handed the folder to Richard. Everything you need to prove he’s a traitor 10 times over.

 Why didn’t you say anything before? Damian’s voice was rough. Because I was the obvious suspect. Celeste met his eyes. If I’d accused Kale, everyone would have thought I was just bitter about losing you. that I was trying to frame an innocent wolf out of jealousy. She looked at Arya. I needed you to prove yourself first. Needed the kingdom to accept you as queen before any accusations could be taken seriously.

So you challenged me, Arya said slowly. Not to destroy me, to force me to show everyone what I could do. I challenged you because the kingdom needed to see that an Omega could be strong. Celeste smile was sad. And you are stronger than any of us imagined. Before Arya could respond, Kale moved. She didn’t see the knife.

Didn’t know he’d had it hidden until it was already flying through the air. Silver blade glinting, aimed directly at her heart. Damian moved faster. He threw himself in front of her, taking the blade meant for her chest directly in his own. No. Aria’s scream shattered the spiritual vision, slamming everyone back into their bodies.

 She was on her knees beside Damian in the actual throne room now. When had they moved here, her hands pressed against the wound in his chest. Silver burned her palms where she touched the blade still embedded in him, but she didn’t care. Stay with me. Blood poured between her fingers. Too much blood, Damian. Stay with me.

 His eyes found hers, already starting to glaze. Worth it. He managed. You’re worth everything. No. No. You don’t get to do this. Tears blurred her vision. You don’t get to die for me. Not when we just The mate bond between them flared suddenly, blazing with intensity that stole her breath. And Arya understood. The bond had been partial before.

Strong, yes. Real, certainly, but not complete. Not fully sealed, because they’d never chosen it. Not really. Damian had marked her to save her life. She’d accepted it to survive. But now, with him dying in her arms, everything changed. She chose him completely. Absolutely. Not because the goddess said they were mates.

 Not because of duty or necessity or survival, because she loved him. And the moment that choice crystallized in her heart, the bond completed itself. Power erupted from Arya like a supernova. Not just priestess magic. Now, something more. Something that came from the bond itself. Alpha and Omega power combined, balanced, perfect.

 Her hands glowed as she pressed them against Damen’s chest. The silver blade melted away under her touch, and the wound, fatal, impossible, began to close. She could feel his life force through the bond. Could feel it flickering like a candle in the wind. So she poured her own life into him, shared her strength through their connection.

“Come back to me,” she whispered. “Please, I finally figured out I love you. You can’t leave before I say it. His heartbeat strengthened under her palms. The color returned to his face and his eyes opened clear and bright and absolutely astonished. You love me? He asked. Arya laughed through her tears.

 That’s what you focus on. You were dying was being the operative word. He sat up and the crowd gathered around them gasped. The wound was completely healed. Not even a scar remained. And you said you love me. Don’t let it go to your head. Too late. He pulled her against him and she felt his heart beating strong and steady. Say it again.

 I love you, you impossible alpha. She kissed him fiercely. And if you ever take a knife from me again, I’ll kill you myself. Noted. His hand came up to cup her face. I love you, too. In case that wasn’t obvious, the bond between them pulsed with warmth and certainty. And through it, Arya felt something new. His alpha power flowing into her even as her Omega healing flowed into him.

 A perfect circuit, perfect balance. What we just did, Damian said slowly. That shouldn’t be possible. A lot of things shouldn’t be possible. Elder Thomas limped forward, looking older than Arya had ever seen him. But the ancient texts spoke of this. When an Alpha and Omega are true mates, not just bonded, but perfectly balanced, they can share their abilities.

 He gains her healing. She gains his strength. “We’re stronger together,” Arya whispered. “Exactly as the moon goddess intended.” The elder bowed deeply. My queen. The title echoed through the throne room as one by one, every wolf present dropped to one knee. Even Lady Celeste. Arya looked around at them at the pack that had judged her worthless.

 At the kingdom that hadn’t wanted her, at the throne she’d never dreamed of claiming. “What about Kale?” she asked. The guards were holding him now, the knife throwing having been his final stupid attempt at murder. He looked small, suddenly diminished. “The sentence for attempted reicside is death,” Richard said formally.

“Multiple counts of murder and treason raise it to immediate execution.” “No,” Arya said. “Every head turned to her. He tried to kill you,” Morgan protested. “Tried to kill the king. He deserves. He deserves to live.” Arya stood, pulling Damian up with her. The moon goddess already sentenced him. Exile with the oathbreaker brand.

 No pack will take him in. He’ll spend the rest of his life alone, watching the kingdom he tried to steal flourish without him. She met Kale<unk>’s furious eyes. Death would be mercy. This is justice. For a long moment, no one spoke. Then Damian squeezed her hand. The queen has spoken. The sentence stands.

 Kale was dragged away, screaming threats and curses that no one paid attention to. His wolves had already surrendered and sworn new oaths to Damian. It was over. Finally, truly over. The coronation took place 3 days later. Arya wore a gown that seemed to be made of moonlight itself. A gift, Elder Thomas said, from the goddess who had blessed them.

 Her hair had been pulled up in an elaborate style that made her neck look longer, showcasing the claiming mark with pride instead of shame. The crown they placed on her head was delicate silver, shaped like crescent moons linked together. Light as air, but heavy with meaning. Do you, Arya Thornne, accept the responsibilities of queen? The high priestess asked.

 To lead with wisdom, to protect with strength, to serve with humility. I do. Her voice carried through the cathedral without wavering. Then rise Queen Arya of the Northern Territory. First Omega Queen in five centuries. May the moon goddess guide your reign. The cathedral erupted in cheers. Not the polite applause of duty, but genuine celebration.

 Arya was shocked to realize that the kingdom had actually embraced her. She caught Celeste’s eye in the crowd. The alpha female smiled and inclined her head with respect. Real respect. Redemption was a strange thing. After the ceremony, after the feast that followed, after shaking what felt like a thousand hands and accepting a million congratulations, Damen finally pulled Arya away to their private chambers.

Tired of being queen already, he teased. Tired of sharing you. She pushed him onto the bed and climbed on top of him. I’ve been thinking about something. Oh. His hands settled on her hips. Do tell. The claiming mark. She traced the one on her own neck. You gave me yours. To save my life. Yes.

 But also because it was what alphas do. They mark. They claim. They own. His expression grew cautious. Arya. But we’re balanced now,” she continued. “Equal partners, perfectly matched.” Her fingers moved to his neck, tracing the unmarked skin there. “So I want to give you something, too. A choice, not a necessity.” Understanding dawned in his eyes.

 “You want to mark me? Only if you want it.” She held his gaze. only if you choose it. The way I’m choosing you now, not because we have to because we want to. For answer, Damian tilted his head, exposing his throat in the ultimate show of trust and submission. Mark me, he said softly. “Make me yours the way I made you mine.

” Arya leaned down and kissed the spot where neck met shoulder. Then she let her canines extend and bit down. The effect was immediate and overwhelming. The bond between them blazed with new intensity as her marks settled into his skin. His alpha power surged through her. Her omega healing flooded into him. And for the first time, they were truly completely equal.

 When she pulled back, her mark gleamed silver on his skin, a perfect mirror to the one he’d given her. “Now everyone will know,” she whispered. “That the alpha king belongs to his queen.” just as much as she belongs to him. I belong to you since the moment you fainted into my arms. He rolled them over, pinning her beneath him.

 I was just too stubborn to admit it. And now, now I’m going to spend the rest of our lives proving it. He kissed her then, deep and claiming and full of promise. And Arya kissed him back, knowing that whatever came next, whatever challenges they faced, they’d face them together. balanced, equal, perfectly matched. The way true mates were always meant to be. Epilogue.

 The message arrived 3 weeks later. Arya was in the garden practicing her healing abilities on the roses that had wilted during the winter when Morgan found her. Your Majesty. The guard captain looked troubled. A messenger just arrived from the far north beyond our territory. He says he’ll only speak to you.

 Ariel’s instincts prickled. Did he say what it’s about? No, but he’s carrying this. Morgan held out a sealed envelope. The wax bore a symbol Arya had never seen before. A full moon with what looked like ancient runes circling it. She broke the seal and read to the reborn priestess. Your awakening has been felt across all territories.

The ancient bloodlines recognized their sister’s return. 500 years ago, before your first incarnation was murdered, a pact was made between the lunar priestesses and the northern pacts. A promise that when the priestesses return, old debts would be honored and old alliances renewed. We come to fulfill that pact.

 Expect us at the next full moon. The Northern Council. Aria’s hands shook as she lowered the letter. Your Majesty, Morgan asked. Is everything all right? I don’t know. Arya looked toward the mountains that bordered their kingdom to the north. But I think we’re about to find out just how much bigger this story really is. Behind her, Damian emerged from the palace, drawn by the concern he felt through their bond. “What’s wrong?” he asked.

Arya handed him the letter and watched his expression darken as he read. the Northern Territories,” he said slowly. “They’re coming here. Apparently, I made promises 500 years ago.” Arya tried to smile. “Any idea what an ancient pact between priestesses and northern pacts might involve?” “Nothing good.

” Damian pulled her against his side. The Northern Pacts don’t acknowledge our authority. They’ve been independent for centuries. If they’re reaching out now, then something’s changed. Arya looked at the letter again. Something big enough to bring them out of isolation. We’ll deal with it. Damian kissed her temple. Whatever it is. Together.

Together. Arya agreed. But as she stared at the northern mountains, she couldn’t shake the feeling that their story, the one that had started with a bite and ended with a crown, was really just the beginning. The real challenges were still coming and they’d be here by the next full moon. The end.