Amidst The Curse: The Heartless Lycan and His Deadly Mate

SERENITY

The sound of my ribs breaking was horrifying, and I felt intense pain spreading throughout my body, rendering me unable to move.

A throbbing pain. I experienced an agonizing ache, caused by both his blow and the intense animosity in his gaze. The scent remained strong, and the more I inhaled it, the more shattered I felt.

The pain was so intense that I wished the earth would open up and engulf me, causing me to disappear from existence.

I felt like my life had come to an end, and the idea of dying seemed very tempting at the moment.

I had a coughing fit and a thick crimson liquid sprayed out of my mouth. I felt my lips quiver and my eyes well up with tears that streamed down my face like never-ending rivers, scorching my skin.

I let out a deep groan as a sharp pain shot through my stomach, a painful reminder that my destined mate had struck me with such force, as if they wished for my demise.

‘But how is this possible? Why would he do that?’

I couldn't believe my eyes as I glanced up at the Lycan, making sure I wasn't imagining things. However, the heartless man didn't even acknowledge my presence. It seemed as if he had completely overlooked my presence.

As soon as I let out a cough, all the people in the palace turned their heads to look at me. However, my cold-hearted mate didn't even bother to acknowledge my presence.

I sat hunched on the ground, feeling defeated and broken. I experienced intense pain in my stomach and chest, making it difficult for me to even scream.

However, I didn't have the bravery to interrupt him with my suffering. I couldn't even express my pain through screams while he was speaking, as I feared he would become furious and harm me.

The chill on his face made me close my mouth instantly. All I could manage was a quiet whimper and groan, as I attempted to endure the pain using my wolf-like ability to heal.

The force of his punch was incredibly strong. Whenever I caught a glimpse of the shattered tiles on the floor, I couldn't help but imagine that it could have been my head if I hadn't managed to avoid it.

Fear would instantly grip my heart, causing it to sink into my stomach. I was nearly killed by my destined mate simply for referring to him as my mate.

‘Why did I have to be so unfortunate to end up with such a creature as a mate?’

Even my wolf, who was thrilled about having a mate, can't stop howling in disappointment and extreme sadness.

“Lycan…” I attempted to communicate with my mate once more using mind-link, but I quickly realized that he had already severed the link, preventing my thoughts from reaching him.

‘Is he filled with such intense dislike for me upon our initial meeting?’

‘Didn't I become his mate to melt his heart and captivate him with an immediate love upon our first meeting?’

He didn't refuse me, but he also didn't agree. After striking me, he simply cautioned me to never bring up the term ‘mate’ in his presence ever again.

‘That's so heartless... That’s so cruel of him…’

“Everyone, let me introduce myself first. I am Maximus, the prince of the Lycans, as I'm sure you are all aware. Right now, I need everyone's full attention. I will only say this once, and I expect complete compliance. Any defiance will not be tolerated.” The Lycan started to discuss with the pack members after his brief of silence since he attacked me.

Had it not been for the coarseness and intimidation in his face and eyes, I might have interpreted the silence as an indication of regret.

His voice resonated with the power of thunder, emitting a captivating and intense energy that left everyone frozen in place.

I let out a startled breath when he revealed himself as the prince of the Lycans.

However, it appeared that I was the sole individual who had just come to the realization that he was not merely a Lycan, but rather the prince, as no one reacted in the same way I did.

I understand now. This really clarified why my dad turned into a puppet in front of the Lycan.

I am aware of his immense courage and lack of fear, however, every werewolf was well aware that no matter how brave one may be, it would be futile to try and escape the fury of the Lycan prince, who holds dominion over the armies of the Lycans.

I finally understand why my mate had such a strong and terrifying presence that could make anyone lose their bravery and feel weak.

His presence had the ability to seep into the walls, causing a collective shiver of fear among us.

A sense of fear overwhelmed me as my inner wolf retreated deep within, quivering with fright. It's hard to believe that my wolf and I become scared of the man who was supposed to accept us as his beloved mate.

‘Why is my life in such disarray?’

I glanced up at his face once more and noticed how he stood confidently, with well-defined muscles visible in every area of his physique, particularly his strong arms and wide chest, despite his loose-fitting long-sleeved robe.

It subtly indicated the immense power and strength possessed by this individual.

He coughed to regain his voice, his expression becoming even more serious, causing everyone to feel more anxious as we anticipated his next words.

He delicately moved his hand across his nose, wiping it softly, and emitted a snort as if he had detected a strong odor.

I sensed that my scent was causing him to rub his nose in annoyance, and it deeply saddened me.

Perhaps he could have a girlfriend who is also a Lycan, and witnessing a werewolf like myself becoming his mate has ignited anger and repulsion within him.

However, during my mother's lifetime, she reassured me that my mate would adore me in ways I couldn't fathom, cherishing me like a queen and valuing me as the most treasured aspect of his being.

Prior to my mother's passing, we would often spend time together on the balcony. I would sit on her lap as she shared stories and knowledge about the special connection called mate bond, particularly for those of us with royal lineage.

The story was so captivating that it made me imagine experiencing a day similar to it.

On the day I reached the age of eighteen, I unexpectedly encountered my incredibly attractive soulmate who shares the same royal lineage as me.

Our hearts, souls, and bodies were inexplicably drawn to each other.

The way she explained everything was incredibly touching, and I eagerly anticipated the arrival of that day.

My mother didn't mention anything about rejecting a mate or feeling hatred towards anyone.

When I asked her if it was a possibility, she assured me that it could never happen to me, because I am special being the princess of the pack.

‘But now? What's happening here?’ My mate nearly caused my demise in a horrifying manner just now.

“Just to let you know, I arrived here because I will temporarily reside in this pack alongside you, vulnerable creatures. I am familiar with the faces of everyone present, thus I feel compelled to deliver a cautionary message to each and every one of you…”

“I don't want anyone to know about my real identity as a Lycan. I arrived here with the intention of leading a regular life, free from any unfortunate incidents or calamities. However, should you choose to defy me, your actions may compel me to engage in such behavior.”

“Tonight, I will be staying in this luxurious lodge, while a different lodge will be constructed within the next day for me and my warrior guards to reside in, anywhere within this area.” The Lycan conversed with regality and authority, and everyone in the room nodded in agreement, saying ‘Yes, sir,’ repeatedly.

“If anyone from outside this pack ever behaves in a way that shows they found out I'm not a werewolf but a Lycan, it means someone has revealed my true identity. The consequence for all of you is death! Was I able to convey my message effectively?” He inquired firmly, and they all responded with nods, bowing their heads.

He continuously evaded eye contact, directing his gaze anywhere but towards me.

As I gazed deeper into his expressionless countenance, it grew increasingly intimidating and horrifying.

“That’s all I could say, I think I’m done for now. I've said everything I wanted to express. This is an uncomplicated order, and failure to comply will result in death. Take note of that!” He finished speaking, and they all nodded in agreement, except for me.

I was primarily worried about what would happen to me. He had no intention of mentioning me, his fated mate, as if I didn't exist to him.

With grace and grandeur, he descended the small staircase below the royal seat. Once more, everyone in the room lowered their heads.

“What? Move! Are all of you crazy? Why are you still sitting there with your head down? Who will be responsible for organizing the room where I will be staying?” With a sudden bark, fear gripped everyone in the room, causing them to startle.

“Go ahead, help him! Please go to my room and collect all of my things. Then, kindly give them to him.” Without thinking twice, my dad yelled, causing all the housekeepers to rush out and do their assigned tasks.

I understand that they were simply too frightened to remain in that palace any further.

At that moment, the Lycan finally looked at me, directly on the ground, where I remained seated with my knees pulled up to my chest.

I felt a strong, pulsating fear engulf me, causing me to close my mouth tightly and recoil as I noticed his eyes fixed on me.

It would have been wonderful if his eyes were serene, but unfortunately, they were not. I could only perceive flashes of animosity emanating from it.

“You! Guide me to the garden! Now!” He spoke abruptly, causing me to flinch.

I narrowed my eyes and glanced to the side, questioning if his words were directed at me.

“Yes, you! Are you deaf too, you filthy servant!” He growled, clenching his jaw in complete irritation, so I promptly rose, flinching as my stomach pained me further.

“I apologize, sir.” I muttered sadly, swiftly walking away from the room without glancing back or verifying if he was coming after me.

I never want to lay eyes on him or be near him right now.

“Take your time moving, slave!” He yelled at me and my legs froze in place, tears welling up in my eyes.

‘Why is he referring to me as a slave? I am his mate! And what's the reason behind his request to see the garden all of a sudden?’

I simply desired to flee and keep a great distance from him but I know I couldn’t. He has shattered my heart and destroyed my very essence, piece by piece.

I felt even unhappier at that moment, and each instance of mistreatment or cruelty from my father or Ophelia appeared insignificant compared to the pain inflicted by him, my fated mate.

The sole individual whom I had hoped to love and show concern for me has also turned his back to me, referring to me as a servant.

He showed no interest in inquiring about me, his mate, and my scent was bothersome to him.

Perhaps it would be better if I were to end my life, as this burden is overwhelming.

‘I couldn’t handle what could happen next.’