Chapter 4

The Royal Academy list was posted. My name was missing.

For centuries, the elite were sent to the capital to train under the Lycan King himself. It was the only way to escape the brutal politics of local packs.

"You blocked my application," I stated, finding Acacia in the main hall, preening in her new silk robes.

"I simply filled the slot with someone worthy," she smirked, tapping a scroll against my chest.

"But the Pack is generous. We've assigned you a 'glorious' mission instead: The North Border Patrol."

The North Border. A 90% mortality rate.

It was a dumping ground for the unwanted, infested with Rogues and shadows that even the King’s guards feared.

"A maid on the front lines?" I gripped the scroll so hard it creaked.

"You're sending me there to die."

"I'm sending you to be useful," she laughed. "Carry the warriors' bags. Try not to scream too loud when the Rogues find you."

"Fine."

For eighteen years, I was the first on the training field and the last to leave.

If they thought wolf-less made me easy prey, they were about to learn that a cornered girl with nothing to lose is far more dangerous than any beast.