Wanted by my sworn enemy

Five Days

Lilorith's eyes blinked open, and she found herself in a place completely different from where she had fallen asleep.

The soft field of lush grass surrounded her, each blade seemed to sparkle with a hint of magic, emitting a gentle glow that illuminated the entire area. The air felt crisp and invigorating, carrying with it the scent of wildflowers and a hint of something more mysterious.

The soft field of lush grass surrounded her, and she sat up in surprise, trying to make sense of her surroundings. Lilorith couldn't help but be captivated by the surreal beauty of her surroundings.

The grass beneath her felt velvety soft, like a bed of feathers, and the gentle breeze caressed her skin like a tender embrace. The sky above was a mesmerizing canvas of colors, blending shades of purples, pinks, and blues as if it were an artist's masterpiece.

Beside her, Gael was crouching, and the vibrant colors of the enchanted realm seemed to enhance the intensity of his striking eyes. He appeared more alive and animated than ever, his presence commanding attention and respect.

Engaged in a heated argument with his cousin Hugo, the two werewolves were surrounded by an aura of power and authority. Even in their dispute, they radiated strength and dominance, their wolf-like features accentuated by the ethereal light of the realm.

Sanari, who usually exuded confidence and allure, appeared surprisingly uncertain in this otherworldly realm. Her usual charm seemed subdued as if she were overshadowed by the enigmatic energy surrounding them.

Confused and still half-asleep, Lilorith tried to make sense of the situation. The beauty of this realm both fascinated and bewildered her. It felt like stepping into a dream or a fairytale, where reality merged with the fantastical.

"What's happening?" she asked, her voice laced with wonder and curiosity.

"We are Belthesar and Yuri," Belthesar introduced himself with a regal yet warm tone.

Belthesar and Yuri, standing nearby as a couple, seemed to embody the essence of the enchanted realm. Their connection appeared profound, and the love they shared was almost palpable. As they turned to Lilorith, they offered a respectful bow.

"We suspect the trials have begun, without announcement," Yuri chimed. "We are honored to be chosen as future Betas of Gael's pack, and we are equally honored to meet you, Lilorith, the Alpha's mate."

Lilorith felt a rush of surprise and realization at their words. The significance of her role as the Alpha's mate became more apparent in this realm, where the dynamics of power and hierarchy were amplified.

As the words "Alpha's mate" lingered in the air, she glanced at Gael, whose expression softened with an affectionate gaze.

Lilorith's eyes widened as she tried to process the information. "Trials? But how? We were just in Gael's room a moment ago."

Belthesar nodded. "The trials take place in a realm where time and space are not bound by the rules of our world. It's a place that exists beyond the boundaries of reality, accessible only to those chosen."

Lilorith glanced down at her attire, realizing that she, too, was now dressed in medieval-like fantasy clothing, fitting for the otherworldly setting. "I'm dressed like an archer." Her confusion only deepened as she took in the magical surroundings.

Gael turned his attention to Lilorith, his frustration evident in his gaze. "I didn't expect this to happen so soon," he admitted, his tone exasperated. "But we can't afford to waste any time. The trials are already underway, and we need to be prepared."

Lilorith's head was spinning with the sudden turn of events. "Prepared? For what? And why are we here?"

Gael took a deep breath, trying to steady his emotions. "The trials will test our strength, skills, and ability to work together as a team. We have to face various challenges and overcome them to prove ourselves worthy of the throne. Most of all, my leadership."

As Lilorith tried to process this new information, her attention was drawn to the sound of footsteps approaching. Zorya walked into their midst, carrying a bunch of bags in her hands. Lilorith's heart sank at the sight of her former lady-in-waiting. There were unresolved issues between them, and the recent discovery of Zorya being a spy had shattered the trust that once bound them together.

"Oh, Brielle. You're awake," Zorya greeted with an overly sweet tone, her eyes avoiding Lilorith's gaze.

Lilorith's jaw tensed as she addressed Zorya, trying to keep her emotions in check. "Shouldn't you be off spying for someone else? Oh, actually I get it. Gael put you on his team so you can spy on the others, right?" Her voice carried a mix of bitterness and hurt.

Gael glanced between the two women, sensing the tension in the air. "Lilorith, let's focus," he urged, hoping to avoid any confrontation.

But Lilorith couldn't hold back her feelings any longer. "No, Gael. She betrayed us," she said, her voice quivering with anger. "My family took her in, treated her like one of our own, and she stabbed us in the back."

Zorya looked down, unable to meet Lilorith's eyes, but she spoke with a hint of remorse in her voice. "I showed," she choked, "I showed you and you still remain the spoiled brat, princess you are and always have been. Brielles the victim. Brielle's the one hurt. Brielle's the only one who wishes she were a human. Blah-Blah, Blah."

Lilorith's eyes filled with tears as she struggled with her emotions. Remembering the scars on Zorya's back. She had trusted Zorya like a sister, and the betrayal cut deep. But beneath the anger, there was also a sense of heartbreak for what had happened to Zorya, to push her into such a desperate situation.

Gael stepped closer to Lilorith, offering her a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "I know it's hard to understand, but we have to focus on the trials now. We can deal with this later."

Lilorith took a deep breath, trying to compose herself. She knew Gael was right; they couldn't afford to let their emotions cloud their judgment during the trials.

"Fine," she said, her voice still trembling. "But after the trials, we're going to have a long talk, Zorya."

Zorya nodded, her eyes finally meeting Lilorith's. "I know," she said softly. "I'm sorry for everything."

With a heavy heart, Lilorith turned away from Zorya, trying to push aside the pain and betrayal. They had bigger challenges ahead of them, and she needed to focus on proving herself during the trials.

As the group gathered their belongings and prepared to face the unknown challenges that lay ahead, Lilorith couldn't help but wonder what other surprises awaited them in this fantastical realm. The trials were not just a test of strength and skill; they were also a journey of self-discovery and growth, or so she had been told.

Just then, as if appearing out of seemingly thin air, Evangeline, the angel who had visited them the night before, materialized before the group. Lilorith couldn't shake the unease she felt in the angel's presence, but she tried to focus on the task at hand.

"Congratulations on successfully completing the first instruction. You may open your survival packages," Evangeline said with a warm smile.

"What's this?" Gael asked, holding up the map for everyone to see.

Evangeline's eyes sparkled with excitement. "That, my dear Gael, is the magic map," she said. "It will guide you on your journey through this realm. It will show you your objectives, quests, and even side quests. But be warned, some quests may be more challenging than others."

The group exchanged bewildered glances, unsure of what to make of this new development. Lilorith's heart pounded with a mix of anticipation and anxiety. She wasn't sure what to expect.

"And now, for your next task," Evangeline continued, her voice becoming more serious. "You must embark on a quest to retrieve the Sacred Crystal of Rialune."

"The Sacred Crystal of Rialune?" Zorya repeated, her eyes widening in awe. "Isn't that the most powerful, hard to find artifact in this realm?"

Evangeline nodded. "Indeed, it is. The Sacred Crystal holds immense power, and it has been hidden deep within the Mountains of Eternia for centuries. To retrieve it, you must climb the treacherous peaks, overcome the dangers that lie in wait, and unlock the ancient secrets that guard its location."

Lilorith's heart sank as she listened to the daunting task ahead. Mountain climbing was not something she had ever attempted, and the thought of facing unknown dangers filled her with uncertainty. But she knew there was no turning back now; the fate of the throne and the supernatural world depended on their success.

Gael stepped forward, determination in his eyes. "We accept the challenge," he said firmly, his voice resonating with resolve. "We will retrieve the Sacred Crystal of Rialune and prove ourselves worthy of the throne."

Evangeline noddedd approvingly at his resolve. "There are only fifty shards. Hence, only fifty of the hundred legitimate heirs of the through will be going through to the next round. We have a limited time to complete the task," Evangeline added, her voice firm, "Five days."