Chapter 4
THE FORBIDDEN MARK
The ancient prophecy revealed that the Celestial Alpha would possess enough power to unite every magical kingdom.
But there was a condition.
The Celestial Alpha could only awaken completely beside her destined Alpha King.
Aria refused to accept it.
“I don't need a destined king.”
Lucian agreed.
“I don't need a destined queen.”
They looked at each other.
Then their magical marks glowed.
Both sighed.
“This is becoming irritating,” Aria said.
Lucian smiled.
“For once, we agree.”
Their journey began.
They traveled through enchanted forests.
They crossed a river filled with glowing stars.
They fought magical wolves.
And slowly, their arguments became laughter.
One evening, Aria fell asleep beside a campfire.
Lucian watched over her.
He realized something terrifying.
He no longer wanted her to leave.
When Aria opened her eyes, she found his cloak covering her.
“You're staring.”
“I wasn't.”
“You were.”
Lucian looked away.
Aria smiled.
“Interesting.”
* * *