Seraphina's POV
I sat in the corner of the cold, damp cell. Silence enveloped me, reminding me constantly of how alone I am.
I was afraid.
Afraid but furious.
The rough stone beneath me was not merciful but it was a relief compared to the unrest that ravaged my mind.
I could not believe "Seraphina" stayed with a man like Lorien.
The Alpha. He was ruthless and unforgiving …..and still I was drawn to him. One time he kissed me, and the other, he locked me up!
I glanced at the mark on my wrist, I wondered how it came about, the look Alpha gave me then showed how unclean the mark was.
Unclean?
Was it unclean? I'm drawn to the mark; it's a part of me that I can't explain.
My thoughts drifted to my 'other self', I could not fathom the condition I was in.
The memories of both personalities keep flooding back.
Teasing me,….taunting me!
I wondered what was going on in the Alpha's mind, what was he up to? He definitely could have killed me again if he wanted to but he couldn't.
I shouldn't make myself vulnerable anymore, I'm stronger and fiercer.
Gently and slowly, I released myself…..into the hands of sleep.
~~~~
Lorien's POV
I stride into the dark compartment, my intense gaze burning with compassion.
"Seraphina?" I called out, harshly.
She stirred, not awake.
"Seraphina, wake up. We need to talk." I added, my voice echoing through the walls, gentle yet fierce.
She opened her eyes groggily and sat up immediately when she saw me, composing a better posture.
"Why are you here?" She asked, avoiding my gaze.
"It's time to face your trial"
"Trial?"
"Get up and follow me" I declared and walked out to the cell.
Once outside, I heard her soft voice behind me.
"What do I have to do?"
I turned to her, she looked too pale and small. What if she can't pass the trial? No matter her condition, she has to face the trials.
"It's simple, I'll give you three tasks to complete, each one has its one difficulty and rewards…if you succeed, I might start believing you."
"What are your tasks?" She asked nonchalantly.
I gave her a cruel smile. "Your first task is to retrieve a rare herb that only grows on the south side of the mountain. It's called 'Moonbloom,' and it's said to be a healing herb and works miraculously."
She nodded, unbothered.
"The south side is dangerous, there're rocky cliffs and lurking predators that watch the herb. You've until sundown to bring the herb back to me, If you fail … you'll die. Again." I added deadly.
She turned and walked away, her eyes fixed on the mountain in sight.
"Seraphina?"
The familiar voice called out, she looked back and stared at me anxiously.
"Be careful, please." My voice is reassuring and gentle.
She did not respond and I'm sure she was ready to face any obstacles.
~~~~
Seraphina's POV
"Am I cursed?" I muttered under my breath as I climbed the mountain, the Alpha commanded me to do such a dangerous task and I agreed without regrets.
My feet were pounding against the rocky ground. I had a purpose and an overwhelming fear.
The air grew thinner but my eyes were fixed on the mountain. I could feel the Alpha eyes watching my every move, one mistake and my efforts would be in vain.
I refused to give up as I climbed higher, the sun beating down on me harshly.
"Any wrong move and you will be dead, Elaena this is real life! No drama!" I muttered bitterly to myself.
Finally, I reached the top of the mountain, my legs and hands sore from climbing. Suddenly I saw the Moonbloom, growing in the limited terrain.
I became so happy, my heart filled with excitement.
I reached out to grab the herb.
As I did, I heard a loud growl and saw a big wolf emerging from the strong trees. I froze on the spot, speechless and terrified.
I knew I had to act or this wolf would rip me apart, but I still wanted to live. I reached into my pocket and brought out a small knife, I held it with my two hands and pointed it at the wolf.
The wolf ran towards me so fast, I knew the knife could not help so I closed my eyes and wished for a miracle. I needed some power to help me. I needed help!
Suddenly, I felt a very odd sensation from my body. It felt like a powerful force fueled my strength and I fought back against the wolf. The wolf was hungry and strong but I was determined and eventually, I defeated it.
It fell weakly at my feet, I stood over it with my cheats heaving.
~~~~~~
I woke up to the humming of the healers, my body was in pain….my head ached and I felt so weak. The healers noticed and stopped humming.
"She's awake! I'll inform the Alpha now" one of them declared and ran out.
I sat up, still feeling weak and tired. They had treated my sore legs and hands. I had scars all over my arms and I hated that.
And it's all because of that bully!
He finds joy in making people suffer, and I hope he meets his karma soon.
"Stupid Alpha" I muttered bitterly and the door opened.
The healers bowed respectfully and he ignored them, running to me. How sweet of him!
"Leave us!" He said and they all scrambled out, closing the door behind them.
"Are you fine?" He asked gently, placing his palm on the side of my face.
"Don't act like you care for me" I yelled at him.
"Don't behave childishly Seraphina, you have to rest and regain your strength." He replied pushing my hair backward.
"How did I end up here? I remember defeating the wolf and there was a blackout?" I asked trying to remember how I passed out.
"You fainted, how did you put up a fight against that wolf? You're not the Seraphina I knew in the past…you're changed.." He stated as his eyes lingered on my face.
"Probably," I whispered to myself.
"You did well today, what do you want to be your reward?" He asked closing onto me.
"I'll declare my rewards after I've finished my three tasks, what is the next one?" I asked as I tried to stand up but he pushed me back to the bed.
"You've to rest now, I'll assign the other tasks to you when you're physically okay" He commanded, moving away from me.
I wanted to finish the tasks quicker, resting can wait. "No, I'll finish them up now" I declared and stood up, losing my balance.
Before I knew it, his strong arm reached out behind my back and held me tight. His eyes locked with mine, and I found myself, holding his robe tightly for support.
He looked at me, not like the past. This look was different, he looked at me as if I was magical….as if he needed me.
I could not explain it but there is a bond between us that he did not want to accept, he does everything to avoid the bond.
"You're so naughty and too stubborn." He affirmed quietly.
"I was forced to be."I retorted basking in the moment.
"I should teach you how to be a better lady." He muttered drawing my body close to his.
"You…. are something else." I whispered, his presence taking total control of my mind and voice"
"I think I'm starting to like the new you, my dear Seraphina." He said teasingly.
I felt so vulnerable, my body wanted him but my head said otherwise. His breath was so calm and warm unlike him. It was as if I was bound by a spell to him.
Suddenly, he leaned in, our lips met in a slow and gentle kiss. He placed his palm at the back of my head and that gave him no space between us.
This man wanted domination over me, over my body! His lips were warm and soft, I slowly released myself to him. He deepened the kiss and I became lost, all that existed at that moment was just Me and my Alpha.
I felt a rush of thrill run through my body and veins as our lips entwined together, I got weak in my legs and hung on him for support.
He noticed and swooped me up in his arms, staring at me so beautifully…I've never been so happy.