Alpha's STOLEN Mate (by Abigail Hayes) novel Chapter 123

Chapter 123

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71

I tried to summon my lightning rift ability the moment I left Lysandra’s cave, eager to return to the castle instantly. But the moment I

reached for that familiar power, trying to set the castle as my destination, it sputtered and died like a candle in a windstorm.

What the fuck?

I tried again, concentrating harder, but the energy refused to coalesce. It was like trying to grasp smoke-every time I thought I had it, it

slipped through my fingers.

The castle. The magical interference is even stronger than before-and it’s not just blocking anymore, it’s actively suppressing my power when I

try to reach there. The Elders are taking serious precautions against me now.

Frustration burned hot in my chest, but there was no time to waste. I shifted into my wolf form and called upon the wind, letting it carry me swiftly across the landscape. My wind manipulation sent me racing through forests and over streams as the moon began its ascent

into the darkening sky.

As I drew closer to Kaius’s territory, something shifted inside me. The confusing tangle of emotions Lysandra’s words had stirred-that unsettling awareness of Frost’s feelings, the uncomfortable warmth in my chest-all of it began to fade. The bond with Kaius grew stronger with each mile, drowning out everything else.

I could feel him. Feel his pain radiating through our connection like waves of heat. The torture he’d endured since being taken to the dungeons hit me in pulses-sharp, aching, relentless.

My wolf whimpered, urging me faster. He needs us.

By the time I reached the castle, my emotions had crystallized into a single burning purpose. Save Kaius. Nothing else mattered.

I shifted back to human form, changed into fresh clothes, and uncorked Lysandra’s potion, downing it in one gulp. The liquid was cool and slightly sweet, sliding down my throat like liquid moonlight. Within seconds, I felt a clarity settle over my mind-a shield forming against the oppressive magical interference.

Now. Time to move.

I immediately sought out Gamma Cross. I found him in the guard quarters, pacing like a caged animal, his weathered face etched with

worry.

“Cross,” I called out softly.

He spun toward me, his eyes widening with relief. “You’re back!” He rushed over, practically vibrating with anxiety. “Thank the Moon Goddess! The King is in the dungeons-he’s suffered such terrible injuries, and I wanted to send the medical staff down to treat him, but -” He slammed his fist against the wall in frustration. “The guards have all been replaced by the Elders’ men! Even I can’t get down there

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Chapter 123

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to check on the King’s condition! Please, my Queen-our King depends on you now!”

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It was the first time Cross had called me “Queen.” The weight of that title settled over my shoulders like a mantle, bringing with it a surge of protective determination.

“I understand,” I said firmly. “You can stand down now. Don’t do anything rash. I have my own way to rescue the King.”

Cross looked conflicted, his brow furrowing. “Queen, I know you’re thinking of charging in there, but direct confrontation might not be wise. And I notice Frost isn’t here either…” He hesitated. “Perhaps we should use strategy instead of force?”

I considered his words. He was right-stealth would serve us better than open warfare. At least initially.

“Create a distraction,” I ordered. “Draw the dungeon guards away. Give me an opening.”

Cross’s expression shifted to grim determination. He nodded once, sharply, and hurried off to execute the plan.

I returned to my rooms and changed into a form-fitting black dress and veil, the fabric designed to blend with shadows. I strapped a silver dagger to my thigh-if the potion failed and I couldn’t shift, at least I could fight as a human assassin.

One way or another, I’m getting him out.

I made my way to the highest tower of the castle, looking down at the dungeon area below. Even from this distance, I could feel the oppressive magical energy emanating from that section-the same force that had been suppressing my abilities. But now, with Lysandra’s potion coursing through my system, the interference was beginning to lift.

I could feel my wolf spirit stirring, testing its strength against the magical barriers.

If I hadn’t taken that potion, I’d be completely helpless down there. Unable to shift, unable to use my lightning rifts. Trapped.

The thought sent a chill through me, but I pushed it aside.

Below, I saw flames suddenly erupt near the dungeon entrance. Smoke billowed into the night sky as guards began shouting and running to fetch water. The carefully orchestrated chaos spread quickly.

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19:14 Wed, Jan 14

Alpha’s STOLEN Mate