Mute

Aria’s POV

Three days later, the Light Shadow pack was buzzing with excitement as the day of the annual pack run finally arrived.

This event was a cherished tradition, a test of endurance and speed where pack members competed fiercely for the honor of winning.

Normally, the prize was a ceremonial dagger and the privilege of leading the pack’s hunting expeditions for a month. But this year, with Caspian newly crowned as Alpha King, everything had changed.

Caspian had infused the event with a youthful energy, adding new activities that made the day feel like a grand festival.

There were obstacle courses, relay races, and even a friendly tug-of-war.

The atmosphere was electric, filled with laughter and anticipation.

The prize this year was exceptional-a week-long stay at the luxurious mountain

retreat, a dream for everyone in the pack. No wonder the mountain

was palpable,

1 stood at a distance, watching the preparations with longing and hesitation.

Men and women were stretching, warming up, their faces lit with eagerness. Running has always been my secret passion, a fleeting escape from the harsh realities of my life. But Lady Agatha had always forbiddende from participating. “You’re not fit to compete,” she would say dismissively. “Stay in your place.”

Now that Lady Agatha was gone and the oppressive treatment of ***ts had cased, I found myself wondering if I dared to dream of participating. My heart pounded at the thought, with hope and fear.

From his elevated throne, Caspian surveyed the gathering. His presence commanded respect and admiration. At his side stood his beta, Elijah, along with a few other trusted advisors. Ellen, Caspian’s chosen Luna, sat among the audience, her eyes fixed on him. Their wedding was only a week away, and she would soon be crowned officially. For today, she was just another spectator, her expression a blend of pride and possessiveness.

“Welcome, everyone!” Caspian’s voice boomed, silencing the murmurs. He surveyed the crowd, a confident smile on his lips. “Today, we uphold a tradition that has long been a part of the Light Shadow pack-the annual pack run.”

bs than pare the pack on a musese të

e of wear meaty and drength. Ne vên

Weliswcasticum My drøyse Sur khas a signály m She weary song with a hellig vom of gold

Cope we

wort of approval spread the wand was unprecedented Caspian continu open to everyone. No one is empted-ma chance to prove their worth”

The crowd erupted meo cheers, chanting Ca

unched from my corner, my heart poundi participating had always thrilled me Lady A gone, and things had changed. The**ts opporturary felt within reach.

The contestants were led out, dressed in the cheered as they took their positions. Caspiar detailing these ranks within the pack.

My heart hammered in my chest, a mix of e

Elijah stepped forward, his voice carrying on huse Leon, our bercest warrior and third in figure with a confident smirk, stepped forwa

Next Elgah introduced Mia, the swift and ag fallest funner She waved to the crowd, her i

One by one. Elijah introduced each contesta w.complishments within the pack. As he mo

I couldn’t stay still any longer. I abandoned r the contestants got dressed.

People secognized me as a maid, and I saw t I grabbed a set of running clothes and quick of fear and exciternent. This was my chance.

Emerging from the room, I approached the eyes widensdag an shock Whispers spread lik

“Isn’t that Aria

“She’s a maid””

“What’s she doing here?”

My heart pounded against my ribcage like a drum as I met Carpian’s surprised gaze. His eyes widened, brows knitting together in disbelief. It was evident that my unexpected appearance had caught him off guard.

Without a word, I locked eyes with him, a determined glint in my gaze. Slowly. I raised my hand and signed. Surprised to see me, Alpha?

Caspian’s expression shifted, it was of astonishment and curiosity flickering across his features. He seemed momentarily speechless, his lips parting slightly as if searching for words that wouldn’t come.

Meanwhile, I noticed Caspian signaling to his beta. Elijah, a silent instruction that didn’t escape my keen observation. Relief washed over me like a soothing wave as I realized that Caspian intended for me to join the race.

As Elijah stepped forward to introduce me as the final contestant, a surge of determination coursed through my veins. This was my chance to prove myself, to show everyone – including Caspian – that I was more than just a mute maid.

Elijah cleared his throat, his voice carrying over the expectant crowd. “And finally, we have Aria,” he announced. “A member of our pack

A murmur of surprise rippled through the crowd, and I felt all eyes turn towards me. Caspian’s gaze was intense, his expression a mix of surprise and pride.

He leaned slightly towards Elijah and signed. Introduce her properly”

Elijah nodded and continued, “Aria has long been a dedicated s**t, but today she steps forward as a contestant, showing us all the strength and spirit she possesses.”

The crowd erupted into applause, their cheers filling the air. I lifted my head, meeting Caspian’s eyes with a steady gaze. He signed back to me, ‘Run well

I nodded, signing back. Thank you for the chance.

The other contestants looked at me with curiosity and wonder. I took my place at the starting line, feeling the adrenaline surge through me.

Elijah’s voice boomed again. “Let’s hear it for all our contestants!”

III

Thu. M l

The crowd’s enthusiasm was electric, and as the signal to wait was given, I blew a low breath and waited for the task ahead, ignoring the whispers and murmurs that surrounded me. All that mattered was the race, the exhilarating opportunity to participate alongside my packmates.

As I stood at the starting line, I felt a sense of empowerment wash over me. Meeting Caspian’s gaze one last time, I saw a hint of respect mingled with surprise in his eyes. It was a silent acknowledgment of my courage and determination.

With a nod of gratitude to Caspian and a determined set to my jaw, I prepared to take off, ready to embrace the challenge that awaited me. This was my moment to shi

ne, to prove that I was capable of anything – even defying the odds stacked against me..