The Lycan King's Outcast Omega (by Cara Anderson) novel Chapter 197

Alexander

The Choosing Gala preparations transform the palace into a frenzy of activity. Servants hurry through corridors with armfuls of decorations, chefs bark orders in the kitchens, and the royal tailor makes last-minute adjustments to my formal attire—a midnight blue suit with silver embroidery that matches the royal colors.

I stand still as he fusses with the collar, my mind elsewhere. Since the formal welcoming ceremony yesterday, I've been unable to shake the strange sensation I felt when meeting Princess Selene. Not a mate bond, but something significant. Something that demands my attention.

"Your Highness?" The tailor's voice breaks through my thoughts. "If you could turn, please."

I oblige mechanically, catching sight of Dominic lounging in the doorway.

"Don't you look dashing," he drawls. "The eligible bachelorettes will be swooning."

"Exactly what I need," I mutter. "Unconscious potential mates."

The tailor suppresses a smile as he steps back to assess his work. "I believe we're finished, Your Highness. The suit fits perfectly."

Once he leaves, Dominic closes the door behind him. "You've been summoned. The Northern delegation requests a private audience before the Gala begins."

I raise an eyebrow. "Princess Selene is certainly direct."

"It's not just the princess. Her advisors will be present." Dominic's expression turns serious. "They claim they want to discuss the prophecy texts they've brought."

My interest sharpens. Despite my skepticism about the Choosing Gala, the prospect of learning more about the prophecy that has shaped my entire life is too compelling to dismiss.

"When and where?"

"The West Library, in thirty minutes."

I nod, changing out of the formal attire and into something more appropriate for a diplomatic meeting. "Have you learned anything more about them? Something feels... off."

Dominic hesitates. "Nothing concrete. They keep to themselves mostly. The princess has been touring the palace grounds, asking questions about our history, our customs." He pauses. "She seems particularly interested in your sister."

That raises a red flag. "Elara? Why?"

"No idea. But she requested a formal introduction yesterday after you left the welcoming ceremony."

I frown, remembering how I'd been called away to deal with a dispute between two visiting delegations. "Did they meet?"

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