Crowned by Fate

Chapter 5: The Royal Palace - Second Rejection

The palace gates loomed ahead, imposing and magnificent. Guards led her to the king’s office, where King Tharion and Prince Kaelen awaited.

A guard mind-linked the king. “King Tharion, there is an Elara Silverfang here seeking asylum.”

King Tharion linked back. “Let her through, and have an escort bring her to my office.”

Lunaris stirred in her mind, protective and alert. Stay composed. I’m here. We face this together.

Before she even reached the door, a wonderful scent hit her—warm chocolate and ripe strawberries. She froze, her wolf stiffening in her chest. Mate. No… not again.

Kaelen’s eyes narrowed as she entered. “This cannot be! I don’t need or want a mate. I already have a chosen one!”

Elara braced herself, knowing another rejection was coming. Lunaris whimpered. Why her? What is wrong with me?

Kaelen’s voice rang out: “I, Kaelen Royal of Royal Palace, reject you, Elara Silverfang of Silverfang Pack!”

Pain shot through her chest, her body trembling. Her wolf growled softly, warning her of the storm to come. Some wolves might not survive this public rejection—but she forced herself to stand.

“I, Elara Silverfang of Silverfang Pack, accept your rejection, Kaelen of Royal Palace,” she whispered, voice trembling yet firm.

Kaelen stumbled back, anguish flashing across his eyes. He could hardly believe the intensity of the pain he felt over rejecting some nobody, weak shewolf.

King Tharion’s amber gaze hardened. “Do you understand what you just did? Why you are feeling this much pain, son?”

Kaelen gritted his teeth. “Father… why?”

“The Moon Goddess forbids royals from rejecting their mates,” the king said. “You have felt her pain because the law is absolute. You forfeit the crown if you refuse and reject your mate. This is partly your punishment—and partly your lesson.”

Kaelen’s jaw tightened. “We’ll see about that,” he whispered, unaware the king had heard him.

Turning to Elara, the king asked, “Would you mind if I touched your hand?” She nodded. “This way, I can see your past without you having to explain why you’re seeking asylum.”

His gaze softened as he gasped, sensing the depth of her experiences. “You are special, child. You and your wolf are more than you think. I will send you to train at a loyal pack nearby and continue your studies. There, you will discover your full potential.”

Elara nodded. “Thank you, Your Highness, for your help and understanding. I promise I will work hard and make something of myself.”

“I have no doubt, child,” he said.

Her chest tightened. I will survive. I will grow. And one day… they will see me.