Chapter 1 Book 1: Alpha’s Mage [Prologue]

1000 years ago... The war was over. Lives were taken. Peace and tranquillity were replaced by chaos and hopelessness. He gazed at her and witnessed how, with every second, Death snatched his love, his mate, his queen, away from him into everlasting oblivion. There was no hope. No chance. He couldn't take her to the castle because they both knew that she wouldn't be able to make it. Thus, they decided to savour those few painful moments of his precious mate's life, here, on the muddied and bloodied forest ground, away from others. He watched, numb and helpless, as a piece of him was being ripped away from him. No words were spoken yet their eyes expressed volumes. Her chestnut tresses were a mess, her armour suit caked with blood, and her forest green orbs slowly losing their focus. Her lips trembled ever so slightly but no words came out. Then it stopped. Her beautiful eyes were now hollow and lifeless. A lone tear rolled down the Alpha king's cheek as the beast inside him howled for the grave loss of his true love. He felt an acute pain in his heart as his beloved had left him for eternity, taking away his heart with her. Soon, more howls resonated in the dark forest, mourning the loss of their Luna queen. The king of the beasts gazed at her with love and anguish. "I will always love you." He whispered, his tone laced with emotions as his grip tightened on her cold frame. "And...I will avenge your death." He vowed.

Chapter 2 1. Ville de Ravenwood

[Erica] "I hope you all are prepared for exams starting from next week. The results will be vital for your college and on your graduation day, a list of students who have been offered a scholarship will be announced..." Erica tuned out Ms.Greyson's lecture and glanced at the wall clock hanging above the entrance door of the average-sized classroom. '5 more minutes...' she thought. It's not that she found her speeches boring, it was rather the opposite, she idolized the woman, most of the students of Westview High did. But she had other pressing matters at the moment which had her on the edge from yesterday. Her mind was conjuring up ways to convince her parents. Convince them to let her go to Ravenwood University. Her mind veered back to last night's argument. She had never seen her father, Adrian Morris so angry before neither did she ever see her mother, Evelyn, so upset. She knew her chances to get the scholarship for Ravenwood University were slim to none. Firstly, because only 2 scholarships were available and secondly, being the trustee of Westview High, it was no secret that her father could cancel her name from the list and put some other student's name instead. Despite being a straight-A student with a GPA of 4.0 till then, she knew she just might have to fly to Canada or Australia instead of being just a city away. "Ric? babe? Land your ass back to earth this instant," a feminine voice brought her back from her train of thoughts. She looked up to see a petite brunette and a tall blonde standing near her desk and the class had already been dismissed. "Wow, Nes, this is something new, she came back from la-la land quicker than the other times," the brunette said in a mock surprise to the blonde, pushing her cat eyeglasses up her nose. "Right Megs. We generally have to call her at least thrice before we finally get a response from her," Nessa commented dryly. "Uh..." she looked sheepishly at her two best friends. Nessa was tallest among the three of them with an athletic body seeing as she was the captain of the female basketball team while Meghan was curvaceous and had a baby like face, attracting the male population in school and out of it more than the other two, more in school because she was the president of the student council. Nessa always got irked by this because Meghan was her long time girlfriend. Erica started chewing her bottom lip. "What's the matter?" Meghan asked, immediately detecting her friend's plight, her charcoal orbs clouding with concern. "Let's talk in the cafétéria?" Nessa suggested. Erica nodded. ---- "Spill," Nessa demanded as Meghan arrived at their table and placed the tray filled with three burgers and french fries. Erica took a french fry and dipped it in the sauce, "Dad is not giving me permission". "To go to that University?" Meghan prodded, taking a bite from the veg burger. "It's Ravenwood University," Erica glared at the brunette. "Right. But Ric, it is practically in the middle of nowhere," Nessa interjected. Erica's eyebrow twitched, for some reason, she didn't like people bad-mouthing about Ville de Ravenwood. Even though she hardly knew anything about the city except that the city was cushioned by forest on three sides yet it had all the modern facilities, courtesy to the internet. Moreover, it was one of the best Universities for learning Arts and Commerce. Very few people from the neighbouring towns and cities got a chance to study by getting scholarships as the education provided there was quite heavy for the pockets. "Calm down hon," Nessa's brown irises twinkled with amusement. "We'll think of something," Meghan consoled her blue-eyed best friend. Erica sighed, she just wanted to know the reason behind her parents' refusal, hell, even her elder brother, Drake was completing Masters in Economics from there. Yet little did she know that she was not what she should have been, she was unaware that on her 16th birthday she had her fate sealed. She was a human and humans weren't allowed in the University she dreamt of studying.

Chapter 3 2. Dreams on Fire

[Erica] She knew this would happen. She knew her father was capable of such ruthless manipulation yet to see the proof of it in front of her eyes, taunting her, was too painful. The results were out. As usual, she had aced in class. Her GPA remained the same which meant any college would be glad to welcome her to their institute yet the doors of the one she wanted to go to had been forever closed by her father. She was angry, very angry at the man whom she idolized. She was angry at her mother for not standing up for her. She felt lost and frustrated. She saw smiling faces. Students taking pictures with their friends and family. She couldn't help but feel lonely. She knew her father was here somewhere and her mom too but still she felt alone. She missed her brother. Even he hadn't said anything to convince their dad. Heck, they did not even have a proper conversation for the past two years. He did not even come home. She not only missed her brother but the bond that they shared, the bond which had weakened. She wanted to leave. To go into the haven which was her bedroom, curl up and cry. Cry till her tear ducts became devoid of tears. She weaved through the crowd, keeping her head low. "Hey Erica," a feminine voice startled her. She composed herself. Turning around, she saw Lana, her classmate in French class, walking towards her. She was a petite girl with doe-like brown eyes and shoulder-length red hair. She had a huge grin on her face, after all, she had gotten the chance to go to the University where she would never be able to study. "Hey," Erica waved with a small smile. "Congratulations! you aced in our class as usual," she said while taking off the graduation hat. "Uh, thanks I guess," she mumbled fidgeting with the sleeves of her graduation robe. "And congrats to you too. Lucky you," she willed her voice to not quiver. Lana grinned, oblivious to her classmate's pain, "Yeah, even I can't believe it. By the way, didn't you apply for scholarships? You'd get one easily." Erica did not reply, just shrugged. No one except Nessa, Meghan, and their school principal and of course her parents, knew that she had applied for a scholarship and that too only for Ravenwood University because she knew that she wouldn't get it as she had gone against her dad to fill in the application. Even though she was angry and hurt, she did not want anyone to criticize her dad. "Okay, I got to go. See ya later," she said and giving her a tight hug, Lana waltzed away, disappearing in the throng of people. She sighed and started walking towards the gate. She needed to get out of the premises or she'd just crumble here and that is the last thing she wanted. She had made it to the parking lot which was currently deserted when she heard the all too familiar voice of her best friend. "Ric, wait up," Nessa hollered from behind. Erica let out a breath and shook her head. It wouldn't be easy, she thought. She once again turned around and saw Nessa and Meghan jogging towards her. "Where do you think you are going, missy?" Meghan scowled at her friend. Erica pursed her lips, "Home.""Ric, why are you behaving as if this is the end of every damn thing?" Nessa asked exasperatedly. Meghan looked at Erica worriedly. Erica glowered at Nessa, "This was the only thing I dreamt of since my freshman year. The only thing for which I worked my ass off, never going to parties, not hanging with you guys during most weekends and so many more sacrifices. What did I get in return? Nothing! only my hopes getting crushed brutally!" Her outburst stunned her friends. Tears were rolling down her cheeks as her chest heaved up and down. Meghan engulfed her best friend in a tight embrace. Letting her cry. The only sound that echoed in the empty parking lot was Erica's helpless sobs. Meghan shot a pointed look at Nessa, indicating her to keep her mouth shut. "Now now, Ric, let's take you home," Meghan mumbled. They made their way to Nessa's car. She unlocked her black beetle and Erica took the backseat still sniffling while Meghan took the passenger seat. The drive home was a silent one. ~~~~ Adrian Morris, the respectable trustee and the Alpha of Crescent Pack, sighed as he watched his daughter leave, her shoulder slumped in defeat. His shoulders were hunched up as well. the 6ft male felt weak. He could feel her distress and anger despite her being a human. After all, she was his pup. His wolf wouldn't speak to him because according to him he had done injustice to his own blood. He himself felt guilty for doing so. "Have you seen Ric?" His wife's voice stopped his self-admonition. Evelyn came and stood beside him. Her jet black hair was secured in a tight bun. She oozed elegance and beauty with her slender frame and her personality made her stand out. "Yes, she just left," he replied curtly. Evelyn sighed. She could feel his sadness and anger. "Please stop blaming yourself Rian," she said softly, placing a hand placatingly on his shoulder. He did not say anything. He kept looking at the gathering from the second-floor office balcony. "Will she forgive me, Eve?" He asked, his voice cracking ever so slightly. He had never felt so weak and helpless. For the first time, he felt that he had failed, as a father, he had lost to fate, to destiny. He couldn't give the one thing his daughter had wanted, had dreamt of despite seeing her work hard day and night. Evelyn's heart shattered seeing her mate like this. Her heart cried for their lovely daughter. She rested her forehead on the edge of his shoulder and consoled him, "She will forgive us. When she learns that we had done it for her good. To keep her safe. When she comes to know that we were helpless in this case. She will forgive us." He closed his eyes and took a deep breath. He had put her dreams on fire and right now his only wish was her forgiveness.

Chapter 4 3. The Majestic Wolf

[Erica] The smoky clouds partly hid the slumbering mountains. Erica found herself standing in front of a rivulet whose water was as clear as crystal. It was getting dark, making it difficult for her to fathom the place she was in. She looked around. The place was deserted except for the forest behind her, which hindered the view of what was beyond it. Erica started walking along the bank cautiously, trying to get a grasp of where she was. She wondered why am I here? She was sure she had never visited this place. But then her feet halted. In front of her sat a gigantic and majestic wolf! Her blue eyes met with its obsidian ones and for some reason, she couldn't move. She stood there mesmerised, not moving, mouth agape, eyes wide. The wolf's midnight black fur seemed smooth and lustrous. His piercing gaze assessed her, every inch of her, unnerved her but at the same time calmed her. He slowly stood to his full height, almost matching the height of the adjacent tree. She tipped her head back to look at this humongous beast. She looked at the creature with awe, but then a sudden fear filled her mind and heart. Who was this animal? How could a wolf be so huge? What if it hurt her? A part of her knew that she was dreaming, but yet this seemed so real. She had to run. Her gaze wandered eagerly, looking for an escape. She had to run, and the forest seemed the only escape route. She started taking backward steps. The beast seemed to notice this movement. He growled a warning. Erica stopped in her tracks. She gulped. Then, to her horror and astonishment, she heard the cracking of bones, and horrified, she watched the transformation of the animal- the wolf to a human being! The darkness had veiled the landscape because of which the person or wolf, or whatever it was, was shrouded in the dark as well. "Who-who ar-are y-you?" She managed to ask despite feeling anxious and nervous as hell. "Your mate," a deep male voice rumbled. ------- Erica woke up with a start. She felt numb, dazed, and scared. What did she just dream of? She had never had an absurd dream like this before. Her heart was racing and beads of perspiration had formed on her forehead. She took deep breaths to calm herself. She got out of bed and opened the window. The streetlamps glowed dimly on the deserted road. Her gaze wandered to the forest across the road. She pinned her gaze there, hoping to catch the glimpse of that wolf. But nothing unnatural occurred. No one appeared. Why would they? It was a freaking dream after all! She shook her head. 'Maybe because I am stressed,' she tried to assure herself. Yet she felt jittery. She closed the window and closed the curtains. She trudged downstairs to get a glass of water. She was about to enter the kitchen when she heard her dad's voice. Entering the kitchen, she saw her father standing with his back to her. His phone pressed to his ear, deep in conversation. "What are you saying? That's wonderful! Thank you, Arnold! I am so relieved. You won't believe how happy I am. So humans are allowed? That means..." he trailed off and turned around. His eyes widened for a second before he asked, "What are you doing here, Erica?""I'll call back," he mumbled and ended the call quickly and put the phone in his pocket. "Uh...I came to drink water. Couldn't' sleep," she explained, lowering her gaze. But several questions swarmed in her mind. Human? Weren't they all humans? What was he talking about? Who was he speaking to? "Want to talk about it?" He murmured, his gaze softening. Erica shook her head, still not looking at him. She heard her father sigh. "Still angry with this old man, eh?" He questioned with a rueful smile. Erica's eyes welled up. The sadness in his voice had her. She just couldn't stay mad at her dad no matter what. She walked up to him and gave him a tight hug. He rested his chin on the crown of her head. "You know I can't remain angry with you no matter what," she mumbled into his chest, sniffling. Her dad's chest rumbled with laughter. He stroked her hair affectionately. "Please forgive me, princess," he murmured. Erica nodded. Then he pulled back and said, "Drink some water and get some sleep. We're going to Ravenwood University tomorrow. They have accepted your application." Erica pulled away in surprise. Her dad was grinning. This wasn't a joke, was it? No. her dad would never be that cruel. However, she could only stare at him, unable to utter a word. This was surreal. She was going to Ravenwood.

Chapter 5 4. Queen of Wizarding World

[Xavier] "Alpha." The 6-foot raven-haired man bowed. "Did you inform them?" The Alpha asked while his eyes were trained on the laptop screen. "Yes, Alpha. I have informed the packs so they can send in the human students who have been selected," the Beta informed. "Good. Thanks, Arnold," the Alpha said, glancing at the royal Beta and a very good friend. Arnold nodded with a smile. "Do you think they will send the spy?" Arnold asked curiously. He had seen his friend and Alpha go against the Council members to make this change. This was a big step. Nonetheless, he had his family's love and support and his friends as well. After almost 3 centuries, humans will be allowed to set foot in the Ravenwood. "Yes, they will, Arnold. They are becoming desperate day by day and the easiest way to sneak in is to get admission here," he replied thoughtfully. "But won't they get suspicious? Suddenly..." Arnold trailed off. "I know that but we need to take the risk. There will only be a handful of human students - 50 of them, which will enable us to keep tabs on each one of them and we can also find out who are the black moles, in our world if we catch that human," the Alpha King explained, hatred lacing his tone at the thought of the 'human' race and the traitors. Arnold growled in agreement. They knew certain werewolves, especially certain Alphas had allied with humans, but the reasons were still unclear. Arnold nodded grimly. He knew the risk of letting humans enter this University. But he also knew that the King's decision was not taken quickly. He knew what he was doing. He was proud of their Alpha King and his decisions were never questioned, not because they were scared to ask, but for their tremendous respect and faith in their leader. "Call a meeting today in the Hall in the evening," he instructed. "Okay, King," Arnold responded. His friend sighed, "Start calling me by my first name Arnold when we are not in public. You're my sister, Mathilda's mate. Therefore, you are family and we were on the first name basis before we took up our positions, remember?""Uh, sorry Al- I mean Xavier," Arnold replied sheepishly. "But you were more laid back then," he remarked. Xavier tensed. How could he say that even after 9 years since he shifted at 16, he is yet to find his mate? Even though he has convinced himself that he might not be blessed with a soulmate, his wolf Leikos disagrees with him. So nowadays the word 'smile' seemed like a foreign word to him. "The royal duties take a toll sometimes," he lied. Arnold smiled wistfully. He knew that Xavier yearned for his mate, but he would never admit it out loud. "By the way, today Alpha Samuel told me to inform you that aunt Jade is-" But before Arnold could complete his sentence, the huge mahogany doors of the office flung open and in walked a tall woman wearing a turquoise sweater with white polka dots and a purple palazzo, her red high heels clicked on the floor and behind her the royal Delta, Vladimir floated in! The other two males' eyes widened. His head hit on the entrance. "Ow," he winced, making Arnold cringe. Then his body sunk a little lower but was still kept floating. He had an utter helpless look on his face. Xavier let out an aggravated sigh while Arnold tried to smother his laughter with a cough. Vlad glared at Arnold and then looked at Xavier pleadingly. Xavier stood up and greeted his aunt with a quick hug. Arnold too greeted her the same way. "I see you boys are fine," Jade spoke, looking at the two of them and completely ignoring the person in the air. "Thanks, aunt. You are looking... uh... beautiful as well," Arnold said with a nervous smile. The woman's crazy taste in fashion couldn't be criticised unless one wanted to get killed or worse, get punished by her spells. "I know, kiddo. I am awesome," she smirked. Xavier glanced at his Delta's pitiful state and came to his aid, "Aunt. Please set Vlad down.""Nope," she said, flipping her blue-dyed hair. "Now he will learn not to mess with Jade Jenson," she glared at the poor guy. "I...I was only following the King's order," Vlad cried, defending himself, flailing his hands in the air. Jade glanced at the Delta, "I am his aunt and I am a Queen as well so I have the permission 24x7, right Xav?" Xavier had no other choice. He knew better than to argue with this woman, "Yes. You do". Jade said smugly, "See.""I said I was sorry Queen. I forgot. But I do apologise. Can you please put me down? Please," Vlad pleaded. Arnold snickered, not able to hold his amusement any longer. Vlad shot daggers with his eyes at the Beta. "Oh alright. I hope you have learned your lesson," she admonished. Vlad nodded his head vigorously, ready to do anything. She flicked her fingers and Vlad came crashing down on the concrete floor with an "oomph". The Delta scrambled up and profusely apologised to the Queen of the Wizards. Again. "Okay, fine. Just get the hell out now," Jade dismissed him. Sorry, Alpha. Vlad mind-linked Xavier. Xavier nodded. Vlad scurried out of the room. Xavier shook his head. How on earth could uncle Roland tolerate her antics and mood swings were beyond him? But then again, he was her mate, so that was normal. They did not have any kids but aunt Jade equalled 5 kids with her vivacious nature and mischiefs. "Aunt, why did you grace us with your presence?" Xavier asked, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Oh right. I came here..." She trailed off and tapped her chin, "Wait...Why did I come here again?" Xavier shut his eyes to control his rising temper. "Uh... I have some work. I guess I will take your leave," Arnold said awkwardly, gauging the rising tension and trouble. He decided to remove himself from the presence of this dangerously mischievous witch. He bowed quickly and left them. Xavier scowled at him. Some friend he was. "What happened to him?" Jade asked in confusion. "Nothing. Absolutely nothing", Xavier shook his head, praying for more tolerance. "Oh-oh, I remember, I remember", Jade suddenly cried out excitedly. Xavier looked at her expectantly. "I came here to tell you that I have done what you asked me to do. I have sealed the exclusive werewolf places with magic," she grinned. Xavier's interest piqued. Now that was some good news seeming that the humans would be coming by the end of this week and he knew that no matter how mischievous she was, her spells were strong and effective. She was a true queen of the world of witches and wizards; he thought proudly. "What spell have you used?" Xavier quizzed. "It's a spell that manipulates anyone who goes near the place that's under that spell, they will immediately go somewhere else" Jade replied while looking at her manicured nails. "Okay. Good," he said. "It'll be fun to have them here," she grinned evilly. "No. You will not, even by mistake, use magic in a human's presence. I forbid you to do so," Xavier warned, knowing exactly what his aunt was thinking. "Okay. I will try," she pouted. "You won't do any such thing," he growled. "Oh alright," she rolled her eyes. "Thanks a lot, aunt," Xavier said sarcastically. "You're welcome, kiddo," she chirped. "I'm not a kid," he replied irritably. "Oh, but you will always be a kid in my eyes," she went on to pinch his cheek, but when he glowered at her, she retracted her hand. She put her hand on her hip, "Listen here Mister, king or not. I have changed your diapers, so...""Aunt. You need to leave," he gritted out. She rolled her eyes, "Need to text your mom that her adorable son is no more adorable". Xavier scowled. "Okay, okay, I am leaving, geez, and anyway,  I'm going on a lunch date with Ro," Jade gushed like a teenager. "Yes, please," he muttered, relieved by the announcement. "Oh and don't forget about the family dinner tonight. Au revoir mon cher," she said, pecking his cheek. Once the door closed, he growled, "Fuck. My. Life".

Chapter 6 5. Rules for the Wolves

[Xavier] Xavier's boot-clad footsteps resonated in the corridor which was empty except for a few guards here and there. Everyone had already gathered in the Hall and was waiting for their Alpha King. The University of Ravenwood, an institute that initially had been the residence of the Royals, the hauntingly​ beautiful castle that was built by his ancestors a millennium ago - a thousand years ago... The corridors were decorated with paintings of his ancestors, Kings, and Queens, of brave knights. However, Xavier's eyes always wandered to that one empty spot among the line of paintings... He wondered whose picture was supposed to be there. He always wished to ask his father, but never really remembered when talking to him. Xavier stopped musing as his feet halted in front of the Hall - Rosamond Hall. "Alpha," two burly men who were standing on either side of the entrance, greeted him and bowed their heads in respect. Xavier nodded grimly before entering. Immediately the atmosphere in the room turned sombre. Every head turned his way. Everyone's gaze pinned on him. He swept his gaze across the hall - the ladies were all prepped up, except for a few. The young men had a mask of indifference on their faces. Some would become warriors, some Alphas, Betas, or Gammas. The most prestigious position for any wolf present in this Hall was to become a part of the Royal Pack, either through mating or being appointed as a Royal warrior. The Alpha King's aura emanated power and demanded respect. Beta Arnold and Gamma Vladimir were already present and standing near the stage. The Royal family, his dad, mom, aunt Jade, uncle Roland and her sister Mathilda, were sitting in the front row and he also noticed Ava, his childhood friend, sitting next to Mathilda. He rested his gaze on her. Ava's mystical blue eyes sought his midnight blue ones, and her red lips formed a heart-warming smile. He reciprocated it with a small smile of his. He saw his father, the previous king, Alpha Samuel give him a brief nod and his mother Luna Freida's honey-brown orbs fill with pride and happiness on seeing her son. His sister Mathilda too smiled at him. He felt a rush of gratitude and love for his family. Without stalling any further, he walked up to the stage and stood in front of the podium. "Good evening everyone," his deep voice greeted. "As you might know that the freshman students will start arriving on this Friday and also-" he paused, "-the humans." He heard groans and grunts of displeasure and annoyance. He let them absorb the news before his voice hushed the agitated crowd. "Enough." Immediately, silence prevailed in the room once again. He continued, "I do not want any kind of protest or opinion from anyone. I want you to trust me and have faith in me", his tone was gentle yet commanding. There was another round of grunts, but this time it was that of agreement. He nodded, "Thank you. Now, I want you all to follow certain rules." He glanced at everyone's serious posture before continuing, "As you know that Humans do not know that we or any other Supernatural being exists. Therefore, no one will do any kind of thing which might threaten our exposure to the world of Humans. If your wolf needs a run, then take permission from your mentor before doing so. If I see your wolf anywhere near the vicinity of this Castle, then you will be expelled. Next, I will not allow any of you to treat any human unacceptably. If I hear any complaint against any of you from a Human student, trust me you'd wish that you didn't exist. I won't spare anyone Alpha or Beta or Gamma or any warrior or any staff for that matter, anyone who breaks the rule will be facing the same kind of grave punishment. This rule is set because I do not want our Kind to be tainted by any kind of disgraceful act. Am I understood?" He bellowed. His voice ricocheting in the room. "Yes, King," the students and the staff chorused. "Now, Queen Jade has cast a manipulative spell on the places where we can freely go but will be forbidden to the Humans. However, if any of you befriend any of them, then be careful not to divulge this secret at any cost. Moreover, a Human can go to these places if one of us is present with them so make sure that when you go to these places like the woods for a run or the place for sparring and practising, make sure they aren't with you." He could feel their displeasure and disappointment for these restrictions, but they were very necessary. "Alphas will be trained deep into the forest. The mentors will be given the direction and the trainees can only go when their mentors are with them," Xavier heard them groan again. "That's all," he concluded, "I will see you all again on next Monday." Every student and staff except the Royals bowed as Xavier walked out of the hall.

Chapter 7 6. The King Finds His Queen

[Erica] The moment had arrived. That moment when the line between dream and reality blurred, and it became one. 'This feels surreal ,' Erica thought as she sat in the passenger seat of the Range Rover. Earlier it was decided that they will leave the next day, but suddenly her dad had informed her that the departure had to be postponed till Sunday. Someone from the university had called him to inform him that the students weren't expected until Sunday She found the rules a bit odd. It was different from other Universities; she reckoned. She had also received an email from them, the acceptance letter was attached to it. She thought she would explode with happiness. When Nessa and Meghan had heard about it they were shocked at first for some reason, but then they were elated. They even went shopping, and she gave them a treat at their favourite diner. Erica saw her father talking to the guard near the entrance gate of the city. Yes, this one, unlike other cities, had a gate- a huge one with tall and muscled men standing as guards with a poker face. Even though she was within the earshot of the two males deep in conversation, for some reason she was not able to hear what they were saying but could only see their lips move. Suddenly, as if feeling her gaze on him, the guard glanced at her for a fleeting second before throwing a questioning look at Adrian. After some time, her dad came back and started the engine as Erica saw the gates slowly open for them to enter. "What took you so long dad?" Erica asked as they came quite a distance away from the gate. "Nothing important. They were just inquiring who we were and the reason for our arrival," her dad replied cryptically. Erica furrowed her eyebrows, there was more than her dad was letting on. She didn't prod further. The day was slowly edging towards dusk. She unplugged her phone from the portable charger she carried and switched on the gadget. No sooner did the phone come back to life than there were several pinging sounds. There were 3 messages from her mom and 5 messages in the WhatsApp group of Megan, Nessa, and hers. Ma ❣ : How far have you reached? - Are you both alright? - I wish I didn't have this stupid meeting :( I miss you. Love you lots. xx She tapped on the reply box and started typing... - Yes, we're fine. Just passed the city gates. I miss you too already :' ( Love you. xx "Evelyn? Is it?" Adrian asked without looking at her. She nodded. "She doesn't like the fact that she couldn't accompany us. She misses me," she mumbled as her shoulder slumped. She was more of a momma's girl than daddy's and Drake always teased her for that. "Don't worry. You'll always have Skype," Adrian quipped glancing at her for a second before training his gaze on the road. She then tapped on the WhatsApp group. She had this weird obsession of giving nicknames and emojis beside it to the contact numbers of her loved ones. The first ping was from Megan Megs😼 : did you reach Ric? Nes 👦 : yes , did u? Megs 😼: luk at her Nes, she is alrdy avoiding us 😑 Nes 👦: yeah 😖 din'  expect this from u chico rico 😟 Megs😼 : this is what we get for loving you so much? Huh? Tell me? Tell meeee 😤😤😤😢😢 chica rica 😭 not fair gurl.😠 Erica rolled her eyes, slightly annoyed at the stupid nickname Nessa and Megan used to irritate her. She started typing... Shut up, you two. 😑 I was sleeping for half of the journey. My phone was switched off coz my battery died a tragic death 🤐 I realized that after I had lunch. 🙈 You know I can't function widout food in my system 🙊 I just charged it on the go till like 50% and then I switched on and saw ur msgs. We will reach soon. We have entered the city alrdy 😁. Happy now? I'll text you at night, yeah? 😘😘 Soon her phone dinged again. It was Megan. Megs😼 : yeah yeah..okie dokie 🍫 She glanced at the text, after which she locked the phone and slid it in her jeans' pocket and looked at her father. "By the way, when will I get to meet Drake?" Erica quizzed "He is probably waiting to see his little sister. You will get to see him soon, pumpkin," Adrian answered with a smile. Erica rolled her eyes. "As if," she scoffed but her dad knew better so he did not reply but chuckled softly. She was very excited to meet him as it had been nearly one year since he had come home. They exchanged texts now and then, but she really wanted to meet him in person - one of her best friends, her support. ~~ The car crunched over the gravelled pathway as it inched towards another huge and intricately designed iron gate. Erica was once again speechless at the magnificence of it. The sun was slowly dipping into the horizon, splashing red and orangish hue on the clouds. She wasn't surprised to see that there were guards standing on either side of the gate. In front of them, there was another car — a black Beetle. The huge gates opened, and the car glided in, after which it closed again. Their car halted just in front of it. Adrian rolled down the window as an almost 6ft black-haired, pale skin guard approached their car. He stopped on Adrian's side. He bowed his head a little, which yet again did not faze Erica because she saw this a lot back at her hometown as well. Adrian nodded. Then the guard asked in a gruff voice, "Name of the student, Sir". "Erica Morris — my daughter," he answered. Erica fished out her ID card from her backpack and handed it to Adrian, who in turn gave it to the guard. He checked it and tapped something on the phone, which he was holding in his other hand. Then he gave it back and hollered for the gate to be opened. Their car moved forward. Erica suddenly felt anxious. She couldn't​ place what exactly made her a ball of nerves right then. She clenched her fists and turned her gaze to look outside for distraction. She found it in the form of lush green trees and bushes. The trees lined on either side of the road were like a silent yet intimidating guard. She had seen this from the moment they entered the city. There were very few houses for quite a distance, but then the number increased. But the people here, love nature, she mused, as there wasn't any shortage of greenery even with the increasing number of houses. "Look", her dad's voice pulled her out of her thoughts and she turned her head to look at what her dad was showing and her mouth hung open. The first thing that she saw was the magnificent castle that stood tall and proud. Looking enchanting and foreboding at the same time. Words failed to describe the beauty of this aged castle, which still had the power to make anyone's breath hitch with awe. She then saw the cars lined on either side of the road before the entrance. Adrian found parking and parked their car. Erica got out of the car on wobbly legs. She could not believe that she was, at last, standing in front of the very institute she had dreamt of studying in. "Ric, you are happy, right?" Her dad asked softly, placing his hand on her shoulder. The tears that formed were given the freedom to fall. She sniffled before embracing her dad, "Yes, dad. Thank you so much". Adrian chuckled, "Your ma, I and your brother will always be there for our princess." And kissed the top of her head. "I know," she mumbled into his chest. "Let's go in. Shall we?" She nodded and took out her bags. She had 2 suitcases and one huge backpack. She took the backpack and one suitcase while Adrian took the other. People were scattered here and there. Some saying goodbyes and some trying to locate the right way. No sooner did she enter through another beautifully designed gate than her eyes zoomed in on the tall guy with dirty blonde standing near one of the several white marble fountains with a wide grin. She did not waste time as she left her luggage​ and all but ran to him. Few heads turned to witness this reunion of two siblings who were more like twins. Drake was ready to catch her the minute she started sprinting. "Drako!" she squealed as he caught her and pulled her in for a hug. She hugged him back, tightly. He chuckled, "I missed you a lot, Rica." Erica smacked his arm, "Do not call me by that name." and pulled away. "Yes, I will," he grinned. He ruffled her hair to annoy her further. "How's my little sister?" He asked, looking at her affectionately. "Good, but she missed you a lot," she pouted. "Same here sweets," he murmured. "Oh, really?! Then why didn't you come home for the whole of last year?" She scowled at him. Drake opened his mouth but then snapped it shut. What could he say? If he explained he'd have to tell her the truth? That he couldn't visit because of the Alpha training. But Adrian became his saving grace. He had reached the duo by then dragging the luggage, "You two meet after so long and absolutely forget about this old man and let him become your luggage carrier", he narrowed his eyes and accused them playfully. Erica giggled forgetting about the question, and Drake sighed in relief. "Dad, you look just fine", Drake smirked earning another smack on the back of his head from Erica. "Ow. That hurt Ric. You surely have become stronger since the last time I saw you," Drake whined playfully, rubbing the back of his head. Erica stuck out her tongue. But all of a sudden she felt alert. She felt someone's eyes on her. Her subconscious urged her to look around, to find the source. She swept her gaze across the area. Nope, no one was blatantly staring at her. Some people were talking while others were going somewhere. Maybe I am being paranoid, she thought. "Oi...what are you thinking?" Drake nudged her. She shook her head, "Nothing". "Okay, now I'll guide you from here. I'll walk you to your hostel," Drake said, grabbing the suitcases. Erica nodded and took her backpack. She turned to her dad, "Take care papa bear," she whispered trying to keep her tears at bay. "Yeah, sweetie. We'll miss you. Drake, take care of your sister." Adrian kissed her forehead and gave Drake a hug. After waving goodbye she started towards her new abode with her brother, completely oblivious of her soulmate's gaze upon her. ~ [Xavier] He had seen it all. He had felt it and he had smelt it. The Alpha King had felt her presence the moment she had entered the city. His wolf had instantly become alert and anxious. At first, he did not understand his wolf's unusual behaviour, but then when the dusk fell, his senses were aware of her. The woman who was made for him to call her... his . The scent of sandalwood clouded his senses. It was like a drug, which in this case did not harm him at all but was like a balm to his heart and soul. "Uh...Xavier?" He couldn't even focus on his work from the afternoon even though at that time the scent was faint, informing him that she was near but not close enough. "Yes? Did you inform the mentors?" He asked, flipping through a file. "Yes, that's what I just said. I had informed them yesterday to instruct the werewolf freshmen about the rules. They have done that since the Weres had all arrived by noon," Arnold had explained once again. "Are you alright?" He had inquired, concerned. "Hmm.. yeah. I'm fine. Good," he replied vaguely, since the only thing that he could focus on was the scent of the mysterious woman who had already ensnared his heart and mind. And his 9 years of patience and longing were finally answered when he could feel her presence inside the campus. But why did she arrive now? ' She is late.' he growled inwardly and sulkily. But he did not care. Even the humans had arrived now, therefore, it'd be a perfect excuse to get of glimpse of the beauty. His wolf yipped in happiness. "I'm going to keep an eye on the humans," he declared gruffly. "But Alpha there is — " Arnold was cut off mid-sentence. "I know. I will mask my scent so no one will know I'm there," and with that, he strode out of the office leaving a thoroughly perplexed Beta behind. ~~ The balcony that was on the deserted East wing of the castle gave a perfect view of the well-carved pathway and the huge garden with the beautiful fountains. He did not want her to see him. He wanted to savour this moment without being called a stalker by the humans, although he couldn't care less. He channelled all his power to locate his mate. Being an Alpha King, he did not need to look into his mate's eyes to confirm the fact. Just by her scent, he would know. After scanning the area while lurking in the shadow, he finally laid eyes on the being who he thought did not exist. The Alpha king had finally found his Mate. His Luna. His Queen. His wolf was itching to be set free. His primal Instinct told him to claim her as his but he reined them. He saw her entering with a man who he recognised as Alpha Adrian Morris. But suddenly his happiness was doused completely when he saw her running to an unmated wolf. He growled lowly. Mine. Mate. Mine. His wolf chanted and he could feel his teeth elongating. But then the word 'sister' calmed him instantly. He immediately saw the resemblance between the two. Her brown tresses which were secured in a ponytail made him want to release them and run his fingers through them. Her blue orbs that twinkled with mirth made him want to look into them all day, and the beautiful curve of her lips made him want to never remove that smile that lit up her face and his heart, ever. His only wish at the moment was to hold her in his arms and never let go. 'Turning into a poet, are we?' His wolf Leikos teased. He growled at his animal half. He now understood all the stories of love and devotion that he had heard from his parents and other mated couples. The attraction was beyond physical. It was like the meeting of two halves of the same soul. Then he saw her looking around and just like that his heart started beating faster. She could feel it! But something seemed off... His eyebrows furrowed as he tried to put his finger on it. What was it? What-- And then as the daze of meeting his mate slowly cleared, as his senses came back from the high. He realised something. The smell was faint, fainter than a normal wolf's scent. The realisation lodged the sword of dread in his heart. She was Alpha Adrian's daughter. She was the one. The only one who never met her wolf. She was the only Human born to two strong werewolf parents. His eyes widened as the truth settled in. His mate, the Luna Queen, was human.