Curves And Claws: The Lycan King's Relentless Claim novel Chapter 78

**Fireflies in Winter Rain — Neil A. Varma**
**Chapter 78**

Cassian,

An oppressive wave of tension surged through me, tightening my jaw and dampening my palms with a sheen of sweat as I observed Former Beta Kyros Valeric making his way towards me. Each purposeful step he took resonated like a drumbeat in my chest, quickening my heartbeat and sending a jolt of anxiety racing through my veins.

Kyros Valeric, the father of both Carolyn and Elle, had long been a guiding force in my life. He had imparted wisdom on the intricacies of ruling this region, teaching me how to navigate the treacherous waters of leadership without faltering. It was he who had encouraged me to ask Carolyn to be my Luna, believing that the bond we had forged over years of camaraderie was resilient enough to withstand the trials that lay ahead. Yet, when Carolyn turned me down, he shifted his focus to Elle, urging her to consider the role instead.

Now, witnessing him approach, disappointment etched into his features, felt like a sharp blade piercing through my resolve. The thought of disappointing those who had stood by me throughout my life was unbearable, a weight I could hardly bear.

“Uncle Kyros! What brings you here today?” I inquired, my tone laced with respect as I stepped down from my throne, trying to mask the turmoil within.

To my surprise, he immediately knelt, bowing his head in deference. “Your Majesty, Elle has always held a special place in her heart for you. In her last message to me, she expressed her longing for your protection. Yet, you have remained silent. Why now? Is it because you have found someone new, leaving her heartbroken in your wake?”

His words struck me like a thunderclap, reverberating in my mind. “No!” I exclaimed, my voice rising defensively. “Please, don’t misunderstand my intentions. You know the circumstances surrounding Elle. Even if I had the desire to wage war, bringing her back would be impossible.”

“Then why now? What has changed to make you believe this is the right moment?” he pressed, his piercing gaze searching mine for answers.

Taking a steadying breath, I met his eyes, unwavering. “Why not? Yes, they kidnapped my Luna Queen and inflicted pain upon her—that is one reason. But let’s not forget that they also paralyzed Carolyn. Two of my villages lie in ruins. Countless other atrocities have transpired within our territory. Do you truly believe I should stand idly by, waiting for an opportune moment?”

The coldness in my tone surprised even me, yet I felt no urge to retract my words. They were the truth, raw and unfiltered.

“I care for Elle as well, and it pains me to see her in captivity. But Uncle Kyros… we both know the reality of her situation. Can you still accuse me of favoritism?”

A thin line formed across his lips as he pressed them together tightly, his eyes darting away, shoulders tense as if my words had struck him physically.

“I consider all of you my family. There is no room for favoritism. My Luna Queen holds the second highest position in this Region; her importance rivals my own. If anyone dares to harm her, the repercussions will be severe. No matter how much we prioritize family, disrespect toward the leader is far more disgraceful. I trust you will not turn this into a familial dispute.”

My words hung in the air, sharp and final, like a blade ready to sever ties. The silence that followed was palpable, shock rippling across the faces of those present. I had never intended to air such grievances in front of everyone, but I felt I had no choice.

Roana was my responsibility to protect. She had not asked to be dragged into this chaos; I had thrust her into it. Therefore, it was my duty to defend her, to shield her from harm.

I acknowledged my past neglect of those who mattered, but I would not allow anyone to speak ill of Roana.

“Very well, Your Majesty. If you believe this is the appropriate time to act, I will not question your judgment. But remember, my daughters have sacrificed greatly for you. I hope you will not bring them harm, especially my Carolyn. Please, treat her well.”

With that, he rose and exited the throne room. I felt an overwhelming urge to call him back, to explain my thoughts more thoroughly, but the weight of the situation held me back. Right now, I had to focus on the looming conflict.

After what felt like an eternity of discussions regarding the potential war between the Southern and Northern Regions, I finally made my way home.

11:01 Tue, Dec 16

Chapter 78

I attempted to call Roana but was met with silence on the other end. I decided to leave it at that. Our previous conversation had soured, and she might have sensed my uncertainty. It wouldn’t be surprising if she chose to avoid talking to me altogether.

As I stepped out of the car, Carolyn’s cheerful voice rang out from the front door. She waved at me, her grin reminiscent of the joy she used to share with me years ago, a bright beacon in the heavy gloom of my thoughts.

“Hey, Cass! Lorenzo mentioned you’re taking me to the Aquarium!” she exclaimed, wheeling herself towards me with excitement bubbling in her voice. “I can hardly believe it! Are you really taking me there? What about your Luna?”

Her voice faltered at the mention of Roana, the sadness woven into her words almost palpable, like a shadow that crept into our conversation.

“She’s in the hospital. But don’t worry about that,” I reassured her, trying to ease her concern, though the weight of my own worries lingered.

“Really? I want to apologize for everything I said earlier. Honestly, I was jealous seeing you so close to another woman who wasn’t my sister. I’m sorry for crossing that line.”

A small smile crept onto my face as I helped her into the car, grateful for her honesty. “Don’t worry about it. We’re adults now. We have our own lives to lead. I want you to be happy too, Carolyn.”

She lowered her gaze, a flicker of sadness crossing her features, revealing the vulnerability beneath her cheerful facade. “As long as you don’t abandon us, Cass… we’ll always wish you a happy life.”

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