Chapter 9
The Hidden Bloodline
By morning, rumors had spread throughout the palace.
Everyone knew the Wolf Heir had been seen with Elara.
The royal council demanded answers.
Kael refused to give them.
Instead, he returned to the ancient library with Elara and searched deeper into the royal records.
After hours of searching, Elara discovered a sealed scroll hidden behind a stone panel.
The royal crest was stamped across it.
Kael broke the seal.
Inside was the history of the Moonborn bloodline.
Elara's family had once been protectors of the kingdom. Their wolves possessed a rare connection to the ancient magic that had united the first packs.
But generations earlier, the Moonborn were accused of treason.
The accusation had been false.
The royal family had feared their growing influence.
"They erased my family from history," Elara whispered.
Kael looked at her.
"And my family allowed it."
Before either could say more, another passage caught their attention.
It described a prophecy.
When the Moonborn heir returned, the Wolf Heir would be bound to her.
Their union would either unite the kingdom or awaken an ancient conflict.
Elara closed her eyes.
"So that's why your father fears me."
Kael nodded.
"Because he believes our bond could destroy his kingdom."
Elara looked toward the window.
"Or save it."
Neither realized that someone had been listening outside the library.
And that person immediately carried the secret to the king.