The Lycan King's Outcast Omega (by Cara Anderson) novel Chapter 204

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Chapter 204

Selene

I find myself gazing intently at my reflection in the elaborately framed mirror, deliberately smoothing my expression into a calm, neutral mask even as my thoughts whirl uncontrollably. The memory of Alexander’s hand slipping away from mine during last night’s Gala replays relentlessly in my mind. His violet eyes held a mixture of confusion—and perhaps suspicion—that I can’t shake. I was reckless, too eager to reveal myself. I let my defenses fall when I shouldn’t have.

“Focus,” I murmur softly, adjusting the delicate silver circlet woven into my braided hair. This morning, for the garden tour with the queen, I’ve chosen a pale blue gown that subtly highlights my eyes and harmonizes with the royal colors without appearing to claim them. Every detail must be flawless. Every decision deliberate.

A sharp knock interrupts my thoughts at the door.

“Enter,” I call, already anticipating who it will be.

Magistra Vega steps inside with purposeful strides, her austere gray gown and tightly coiled silver bun a testament to her unyielding demeanor. She has been my mentor since childhood—the woman who shaped me into the precise instrument for our people’s ambitions.

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

I rise from the vanity, folding my hands neatly before me as I have been taught. “Prince Alexander showed great interest in the prophecy text. He spent a significant portion of the Gala in my company, and although he admits he doesn’t feel a mate bond, it’s clear he’s drawn to me.”

“And the sister?” Vega’s piercing gaze misses nothing—not even the slight stiffening of 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 even stronger than her brother’s.”

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

“She’s avoiding me now,” I add. “Likely warning her brother against me.”

Vega dismisses this with a wave of her hand. “We don’t need her trust—only her presence when the time comes.” Her eyes lock onto mine with an intense stare. “There was an incident last night. The prince’s power activated when he touched you.”

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

“And your reaction?”

“Concerned surprise, nothing more. He remains unaware of our true intentions.”

“Good.” She moves toward the window, gazing out over the palace grounds. “We must accelerate our timeline. The binding ceremony has to occur by the full moon, not after the Gala as originally planned.”

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

“Then you must act faster,” Vega says sharply. “Our scouts report increased activity along the border. The healer enclaves are growing suspicious following the reconnaissance mission.”

“I can’t rush this,” I protest, a rare flicker of defiance in my voice. “If I push too hard, I’ll only deepen his suspicions. Alexander is no fool.”

Vega spins to face me, her eyes flashing with anger. “Do you need reminding what’s at stake? Our people have waited generations for this moment. The throne stolen from us. The power that rightfully belongs to our bloodline.”

“I know my duty,” I reply firmly.

“Do you?” she steps closer, so near I catch the faint scent of bitter herbs she uses to keep her hair from graying. “Selene, you were chosen for this mission before you were born. Your bloodline preserved for this very purpose. You have one responsibility—reclaim the throne stolen from us generations ago.”

Her words wash over me, a familiar tide reinforcing a lifetime of conditioning. I was bred for this mission, raised for this moment. The weight of my people’s future rests squarely on my shoulders.