The Elusive Bond

A Party at the Grand Palace

The night of the party at the Grand Palace was a grand affair, filled with lavish decorations, music, and laughter. The human court mingled with ease, unaware of the deeper currents of power swirling around them. Aleksander, known to them as General Kirigan, moved through the crowd with his usual commanding presence, but tonight was different.

Tonight, Amira was by his side, her hand resting lightly on his arm as they navigated the grand halls. Dressed in an elegant black gown, she exuded grace and strength, the subtle glow of her power just beneath the surface. Around her neck rested the ring Aleksander had given her, a symbol of their bond, though its true meaning was hidden from the humans present.

As they walked, Amira's mind reached out to Aleksander through their mental link, her voice brushing against his thoughts. Why do you serve a human king? she asked, her curiosity tinged with concern. And what about the rumors I've heard regarding Genya? Is it true the king mistreats her?

Aleksander's jaw tightened at the mention of Genya, but his reply was calm. Yes, he confirmed through their link. Genya is given heat suppressants to ensure her safety within the Grand Palace. It's the only way to protect her from the king's... advances.

Amira's heart twisted at the thought, her protective instincts rising. That's terrible. Why is she still there?

For now, Aleksander replied, his voice steady, it's the safest place for her, given the circumstances. But I plan to take the throne soon—for the safety of our pack. Once that's done, Genya will be free, and so will the others.

Amira's gaze softened, her trust in Aleksander growing with each passing moment. You'll take the throne? she asked, though it was more of a confirmation than a question.

Yes, Aleksander's voice was firm. It's only a matter of time.

A Royal Encounter

As they continued to walk through the palace, mingling with the human nobility, a familiar figure approached them—Prince Vasily, his charming smile as calculated as ever. His gaze lingered on Amira, curiosity flashing in his eyes as he stopped before them.

"General Kirigan," Vasily greeted, his voice smooth and polite. "And who is this lovely lady on your arm?"

Aleksander's grip on Amira's hand tightened ever so slightly, but his expression remained neutral. "Prince Vasily, this is my wife, Amira."

Amira smiled politely, inclining her head in greeting as Vasily's eyes widened in surprise. "Your wife?" he repeated, clearly taken aback. "I didn't know you were married."

Aleksander's smirk was subtle but unmistakable. "Not many do," he replied, his tone cool.

Vasily's gaze flicked between the two of them, clearly intrigued by the mysterious woman at the General's side. "Well, it's a pleasure to meet you, Lady Amira," he said, his voice dripping with courtly charm. "I must say, you've made quite the entrance tonight."

Amira smiled again, her expression unreadable. "Thank you, Your Highness."

As Vasily excused himself and moved on to greet other guests, Amira glanced at Aleksander through their mental link. He doesn't suspect anything, does he?

Aleksander shook his head slightly. No. The humans have no idea about our true nature. To them, we are just another part of the Grisha army—powerful, but human.

Amira nodded, though she couldn't shake the feeling that something was brewing beneath the surface. The humans might not know the truth about the Grisha wolves, but there were other dangers lurking in the shadows—dangers that Aleksander's plan to take the throne would undoubtedly bring to light.