The Lycan King's Outcast Omega (by Cara Anderson) novel Chapter 201

Chapter 201

Selene

I gaze at my reflection in the elaborately framed mirror, forcing my expression into a calm, neutral mask while my thoughts whirl uncontrollably. The memory of Alexander pulling his hand away from mine during last night’s Gala replays endlessly in my mind. The confusion—and perhaps suspicion—lurking in his violet eyes haunts me. I was reckless, too eager, and I let my defenses slip dangerously low.

“Focus,” I murmur softly, adjusting the delicate silver circlet woven into my braided hair. For this morning’s garden tour with the queen, I’ve chosen a pale blue gown that enhances the color of my eyes and subtly complements the royal palette without appearing to claim it as my own. Every detail must be perfect. Every decision meticulously planned.

A sharp rap breaks the quiet at my chamber door.

“Enter,” I call, already anticipating who will step inside.

Magistra Vega enters with purpose, her stern gray gown and tightly coiled silver bun reflecting the iron will that has shaped me since childhood. She is my mentor, the architect behind the flawless instrument I’ve become—an extension of my people’s long-held ambitions.

“Well?” she demands immediately. “Report.”

I rise from the vanity, folding my hands in front of me as I have been taught to do. “Prince Alexander showed clear interest in the prophecy text. He spent a significant amount of time with me during the Gala. While he admits he doesn’t feel a mate bond, there’s no doubt he’s drawn to me.”

“And the sister?” Vega’s piercing gaze misses nothing, not even the subtle tension that tightens my shoulders at the mention of Princess Elara.

“She’s cautious—more perceptive than we expected. When I touched her hand during our introduction, I sensed a power. Raw, untamed, but stronger than her brother’s.”

Vega nods, unsurprised. “As the ancient texts predicted. The second child is the true vessel.”

“She’s now avoiding me,” I add. “And likely warning Alexander against me.”

Vega dismisses this with a wave. “We don’t need her trust, only her presence when the time comes.” Her eyes bore into mine. “There was an incident last night. The prince’s power activated upon contact with you.”

I shouldn’t be surprised she already knows. Vega’s network is vast. “Yes. He experienced the drain, just as we anticipated.”

“And your reaction?”

“Concerned surprise, nothing more. He suspects nothing of our real intentions.”

“Good.” She strides to the window, gazing over the palace grounds. “We’re moving faster than planned. The binding ceremony must happen by the full moon, not after the Gala as we originally intended.”

I can’t hide my shock. “That’s less than a week away! I haven’t yet earned his trust, much less secured his agreement to a formal courtship.”

“Then you must accelerate your efforts,” Vega replies, her tone icy. “Our scouts report increased activity at the border. The healer enclaves are growing suspicious after the reconnaissance mission.”

“I can’t force this,” I protest, rare defiance rising within me. “If I push too hard, I’ll only deepen his mistrust. Alexander is no fool.”

Vega pivots sharply, anger flashing in her eyes. “Do I need to remind you what’s at stake? Our people have waited generations for this moment—the throne stolen from us, the power that rightfully belongs to us.”

“I know my duty,” I say stiffly.

“Do you?” She steps closer, close enough that I catch the faint scent of bitter herbs she uses to keep her hair from graying. “You were chosen for this mission before you were born, Selene. Your bloodline preserved carefully for this purpose. You have one responsibility—secure the throne stolen from us all those generations ago.”

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