“What actions must we undertake to achieve victory, Lord Colton?”“A man to her left inquired.”
“It is quite straightforward.” Colton grasped the tops of the men’s heads. “I intend to allow these two imbeciles to roam freely into the woods.” The victor must present both of their heads or face the possibility of sharing the title. “Indeed, merely their heads will suffice.”
Suddenly, silence enveloped the vicinity. Anxious glances exchanged among companions and partners, Molly sensed her hands beginning to tremble. Colton liberated their heads and compelled them to stand. “The full moon is nearly ascendant,” he remarked as he severed their restraints. He propelled them both off the stage. “Shall we grant them a head start?”
The crowd dispersed to allow the men to stand. Their eyes were frantic as they searched for assistance, yet no one was willing to intervene. Colton clapped his hands. “You are squandering time, my boys.” I typically would not permit traitors such an advantage.
The men dispersed in various directions among the trees. Colton smiled charmingly at the crowd. “I anticipate their heads before the first hour elapses.” Delight in your pursuit.
Colton retreated into the throng and swiftly seized Molly. He guided her to the periphery, and she comprehended the reason moments later. Bones began to fracture; she gasped as the individuals in the crowd commenced their transformation into wolves. Having never witnessed a wolf shift firsthand, she had only heard tales, yet this experience proved far more terrifying than she had anticipated.
Their garments were shredded from their bodies as they rapidly expanded, their spines fracturing, prompting Molly to avert her gaze as they transformed into wolves. The diminutive women had become formidable, menacing wolves, and the men were even more fearsome. Several howled at the zenith of the moon. She looked at Colton, but he remained unchanged.
“I will abstain from participation tonight,” Colton responded to the inquiry reflected in her gaze. “I have mastered the ability to regulate my shifting.” I was required to perform it during each full moon. It is now solely at my discretion.
The wolves began to scent the ground for the presence of the men, and simultaneously, Molly observed two groups disperse, heading towards each one. She was unaware of her trembling until Colton embraced her firmly.
“You need not have done that for me,” Molly murmured.
Colton shook his head. “You are mistaken; I did it for my own sake.” He brushed hair from her eyes and gently patted her cheek. “You might consider returning to your cabin.” Their return will be unappealing.
Colton did not need to request again; Molly retreated to her room and positioned a chair against the door to prevent entry, even if it were unlocked. She ensured that all windows were securely fastened before extinguishing the lights and lying in bed, clutching her dagger firmly. Distant howls echoed outside her window, and she doubted she would find any rest until dawn.
What did the rogue hunt when Colton was not attempting to convey a message to his pack? Did they target animals or individuals? She shuddered at the thought, yet it must have been something significant. There was no question regarding Colton’s position as the leader of the rogues. Despite his kindness, he was one of the most intimidating men she had ever encountered, and that was a considerable statement.
After what seemed like hours of nearly dozing off, a cacophony erupted from outside her door, abruptly rousing her. She sprang from her bed and stumbled as she attempted to discern the commotion. Had someone returned with the severed heads? Molly quaked at the notion of their heads being presented at Colton’s feet as if they were trophies.
Why did it appear as though they were engaged in a conflict?
“It is the prince!””A voice called out as someone hurried past her door. Molly promptly shifted the chair and flung open the door to venture into the snow. Did he mention prince? Her prince? Was Jayce present?
What she observed was pandemonium. Palace guards clashed with the wolves from the village. They transformed into their wolf forms, intensifying the ferocity of the battle within mere seconds. She concealed herself behind one of the cabins, clutching her dagger tightly. Her mark began to itch; she sensed Jayce’s proximity, yet she had not yet spotted him.
Jayce stood on the platform, exhibiting his usual demeanour, albeit with a trace of madness evident in his expression. His hair was dishevelled, and the stubble on his jaw had grown since their last encounter. Her heart inexplicably fluttered at the sight of his untamed appearance. His guards encircled him like a protective barrier, reprimanding anyone who attempted to approach. He had yet to notice her, but she observed him intently. Her thoughts were tumultuous. Should she reveal her presence? Would he even acknowledge her? What was his purpose for being there in the dead of night? She had assumed he would have returned to the palace by now with the answers he sought.
