The Messenger( Iva) novel Chapter 50

The Thread effete

stirred.

Curiosity.

+25 Points

It crept in quietly at first, a whisper she tried to ignore, like something was pushing her do to something stupid. She knew better. Sergio had been very clear: stay in the back, keep your head down, don’t wander.

But this was… different.

This was a once-in-a-lifetime moment.

She dried her hands slowly, heart thudding.

Avalon, she whispered in her mind. Can you mask our scent?

Her wolf stirred instantly, tension flaring.

Iva… are you sure?

“Yes,” she replied, even though her pulse spiked. It’s a one-time opportunity. We’ll meet Lycans at the Academy anyway-once we’re in. But I need to see them. To know what we’re walking into.

A pause.

Then Avalon sighed, a deep, wary sound.

Very well. But only a glance. I will mask us completely.

Warmth spread through her chest as the familiar veil settled over her, her presence folding inward, muted,

blurred.

Now or never.

She took a quiet step forward. Then another. Moving slowly, carefully, sticking to shadows and corners until she found a narrow opening near the service corridor-a place where she could see without being

seen.

And then she saw them.

There were maybe ten of them gathered around a long table, laughter low and controlled, glasses raised. From their posture, their expressions, the energy coiling between them, it was obvious-they were celebrating someone. A promotion, a victory, a milestone.

Werewolves were known for impressive physiques.

But Lycans?

They were something else entirely.

They were taller, built with lean, lethal muscle that spoke of power held effortlessly. Their movements

were precise, economical. Their faces-sharp, symmetrical, almost unfairly perfect-looked carved rather than born. Every single one of them radiated dominance like a living force.

Iva’s breath caught.

3/5

The Thread-off-ale

So this is what stands at the top, she thought faintly.

Then-

She froze.

A sharp, searing sensation flared in her chest.

“No…” she whispered soundlessly, as the familiar warm feeling engulfed her.

From the center of her chest, something emerged

+25 Points

An invisible thread-no, not invisible anymore-glowing red, pulsing softly like a living thing. It stretched outward from her body, trembling, alive, and began to move through the air.

Straight toward them, towards the group of lycans.

Her heart slammed violently against her ribs.

No. No. No.

This is a mistake. A glitch. A cruel joke.

Avalon! she screamed in her mind. What is happening? Tell me this isn’t what I think it is. Please-tell me this isn’t possible!

Avalon’s voice came back low. Serious. Unmistakably real.

Iva… this is the Thread of Fate, there is no mistake.

Iva’s legs nearly gave out.

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