Chapter Five
The atmosphere of the Wolf Kingdom was heavy, steeped in an ancient power that seemed to breathe through the land itself. Snow-capped peaks loomed in the distance, shrouded in mist that clung like restless ghosts. The icy wind whispered through towering pines as wolves howled from afar.
Melody stepped off the ferry wheel, the cold mountain air stealing her breath. A chill crawled down her spine, not only from the frost, but from the reality of what lay ahead. She stood tall, her face carefully composed, though her heart raced wildly in her chest.
Her gaze swept over the gathering crowd until it settled on two men standing near the landing platform. One was tall and blond, his expression easy. The other was dark-haired, broad-shouldered, and stern.
Her attention lingered on the dark-haired man.
Could he be my future husband?
She had always imagined werewolves to be fair-haired, but the royal bloodline was known for its raven-dark hair. Still, something about him felt… final.
Her father, King Akornus, stepped forward with his advisors. The dark-haired man greeted him with a firm handshake and a practiced smile.
"I am King Korvus," he said, then turned his gaze toward Melody. The smile did not reach his eyes. "You must be Melody."
She inclined her head politely, though her instincts bristled. His gaze felt invasive, sharp, like that of a predator assessing prey.
"Nice to meet you, Princess," he said, amusement flickering briefly in his eyes.
"Likewise, Your Majesty," Melody replied.
Her father cleared his throat, a subtle reminder to remain composed. Korvus gestured for them to follow.
"Come. The celebration has already begun. Everyone is waiting for the bride."
Melody followed in silence, taking in the palace as they walked. It was vast, larger and more opulent than her father's, yet colder somehow. As though it had been built on ambition rather than warmth.
No wonder Tharenos was feared across Deveria.
Prince Orionn stood near the arched window of his chamber, silver eyes fixed on the snowy horizon. The day he had dreaded had finally arrived.
A knock sounded.
"Come in," he said flatly.
Nathan entered with a grin. "Big day. Excited to meet your bride?"
Orionn did not turn. "She's not my bride."
"Oh?" Nathan teased. "Then who is she?"
Orionn faced him slowly, irritation flashing in his gaze. "You know exactly who she is."
"Relax," Nathan said lightly. "I'm just saying, you should be a little curious. She's beautiful, and unusual."
"She's a political tool," Orionn replied coldly. "Nothing more. Her beauty means nothing to me."
Nathan chuckled. "You really are heartless. But even ice melts eventually."
Orionn's stare hardened. "Get out."
"Why do you always say that?" Nathan laughed. "Fine. Time's ticking. Let's go."
Back in the palace, Melody stood before a mirror as Amah adjusted the final folds of her gown. The dress was breathtaking, white with delicate silver embroidery forming wolves along the bodice and sleeves. It shimmered softly in the candlelight.
"You look stunning," Amah whispered.
Melody stared at her reflection. "But I don't feel ready."
Amah squeezed her hand gently. "You are braver than you think."
The doors opened, and her father entered. "Everyone is waiting. Shall we?"
Melody drew in a steadying breath and nodded.