Chapter 2
The Wolf Heir
Kael barely slept that night.
The royal palace had become silent, but his mind remained trapped in the moment when he first saw Elara.
Every instinct demanded that he find her.
Yet the king's command echoed in his thoughts.
You will not approach her.
Kael had obeyed his father all his life. He had accepted every lesson, every responsibility, and every sacrifice expected of the future king.
But the mate bond was different.
It was not a political agreement.
It was not a royal decree.
It was something older than the throne.
At sunrise, Kael entered the council chamber.
The royal council was already waiting.
"The northern girl must leave the capital," the king announced.
Kael's expression hardened.
"Why?"
The king stared at him.
"Because she is not suitable for you."
"That is not an answer."
The room became silent.
For the first time, Kael openly challenged his father.
The king leaned forward.
"You are the Wolf Heir. Your marriage will determine the future of this kingdom."
Kael stood.
"And if fate has already chosen?"
No one answered.
That silence told Kael more than words could have.
His father knew something.
Something he was hiding.