The Omega’s Second-Chance Mates

Homecoming

Chapter 8

Fifteen years later...

"Let's study exhibit C named the Eye of the Moon." I gestured my hand to the enigmatic artifact to my students, where they could see a perfectly spherical gemstone. "Class, today we will be diving into an enchanting narrative that revolves around a gem of extraordinary allure," I said, striding to close the curtains to let them see the majestic light of the gemstone. "This gemstone glows with an ethereal lunar light," I added.

A collective gasp of awe and astonishment reverberated through the study hall as the gemstone emitted a brilliant, moon-like glow. Seeing their reaction made me realize that I had the same attitude when I was studying the Eye of the Moon.

"This gem possesses a mesmerizing radiance that captivates all who behold it. Beyond its sheer beauty, this gem holds a profound connection to ancient prophecies and legends that intertwine with the Moon Goddess Herself. As we explore further, we will uncover the pivotal role this gem plays in a celestial ritual—one that has the potential to reshape the very destiny of someone's world. So, get ready to embark on a thrilling journey filled with mystery, magic, and the power to alter the course of an entire realm's fate."

As the explanation furthers, I highlighted that this was a present bestowed to the royal lycan family of the Estasia Eglaria Kingdom from the Moon Goddess Herself. This exclusive privilege bestowed upon the royal family underscored their intimate connection to the Moon Goddess and the divine blessings she bestowed upon them. It stood as a testament to their revered status and the profound connection they held with the Moon Goddess.

After the class, I returned it to the rightful place, to the sacred room where only authorized personnel could enter.

"Job well done, Professor Czerie." I was greeted by a beaming smile from one of my colleagues, Professor Linus, when I returned to the faculty room to rest for a while since Headmaster Reinrich, the headmaster of the Estasia Eglaria Royal Academy, was summoning us for a faculty meeting.

"Thanks, Professor Linus. The students for this year are being diligent when it comes to my class." I slouched and kept tapping my fingers on my desk so I could contemplate. "I must say that they can handle themselves from now on..." I said meaningfully.

"Shame that you are not going to be with us in the next semester, though." Professor Palma chimed in. "Are you truly planning to return to your home country, Professor Czerie? Is there no possibility of persuading you to stay at the royal academy and not leave?"

My gaze penetrated the ceiling, almost seeing some scenes that I hadn't gotten a chance to recall. "I have already made my decision." I smiled and looked at them. "Fret not. I will establish ongoing communication with all of you through telegrams to ensure our connection remains intact."

That was all I said so they could drop the topic of letting me stay. I had already served this country as an archaeologist and professor at the royal academy in the Estasia Eglaria Kingdom for 15 years. It was my time to return to the Sowinski Kingdom, my motherland, where I must repay Alpha Orlando's kindness even though he insisted I could stay here for all I needed.

"Professor Czerie, may I have a word with you?" Headmaster Reinrich gathered my attention when all of the professors left after the faculty meeting.

Confused, I nodded. "Certainly." I followed him, and he led me to his study room. "May I ask if this is about my resignation?" That was the only plausible way as to why he was asking me to converse with him, right?

His eyes widened, and a smile spread across his face, revealing his anticipation. "That's not the only thing I wish to discuss with you, Professor Czerie."

Fluttering my eyelids, my back postured up, my hands clasping together, nestling on my thighs. "Then, what is it?"

"Actually, since you are going to resign and not going to continue teaching here for the next semester, there is someone, an acquaintance of mine, who needs your expertise." His eyes were glinting as the remnants of the stars pulverized in the clear night sky.

I slightly tilted my head out of curiosity. An acquaintance of his? "Is there something I need to exhume or study with my fellow colleagues?"

This was not the only moment someone sought my expertise as an archaeologist. Over the years, I had been approached by various nobles and individuals who entrusted me with the task of studying artifacts passed down from their ancestors. These remnants held secrets and stories of ancient times, and it was my responsibility to carefully examine and decipher their mysteries. Each artifact was a doorway to a bygone era, and I relished the opportunity to unravel the secrets hidden within their ancient remains.

"Sort of. That acquaintance of mine has been conducting an expedition since he was 18 and is looking for an archaeologist to hire."

My forehead furrowed at what he said. "Headmaster, are you referring to the siblings of Alpha King Kennedy? It is well-known that only the esteemed members of the royal lycan family have the authority to oversee and organize such expeditions, employing a team of skilled archaeologists for the task."

I used to remember the siblings of Alpha King Azarius back in the Sowinski Kingdom. They used to do this expedition once they reached the age of 18.

"Not really. But he is the youngest of the five siblings."

"If not them, then who?"

Just as I awaited his response, our conversation was abruptly interrupted by a knock at the door. "That must be him." He stood up, which made me sigh before deciding to attach my back to the supporting surface of the chair I was sitting on right now.

I closed my eyes, inhaling deeply, as the sound of a creaking door reached my ears.

"Your Highness, greetings!"

I almost scoffed since I knew now that this time, my client would be from the royal lycan family again. Hearing that he called someone an honorific meant that it might be one of the siblings of His Majesty, Alpha King Kennedy.

"Reinrich, it has been a while."

Huh?

That baritone voice... It seemed familiar.

"Please come in. You are just in time. Professor Czerie is here."

The spirit of inquiry was looming over my sanity since I couldn't get the gist of that firm voice of a man, but I was sure as hell that I had heard that voice before.

My eyes shot open, and I quickly turned my attention toward the doorway. As the figure stepped into the room, my heart skipped a beat. It was him. The man with the voice that was part of the memories I had long tried to bury.

"Reinrich, it's good to see you," he said, his voice filled with a mixture of warmth and authority. Then his piercing forest green eyes met mine, whose face brightened up. "Professor Czerie, it has been a long time."

"Prince... Atticus...?" I blinked, not believing that the youngest prince from the Sowinski Kingdom was here, standing before me.

Prince Atticus, clad in a regal attire befitting his royal status, approached me with a gracious smile. "Indeed, it is I, Atticus," he confirmed, his voice resonating with a sense of familiarity.

As memories surged through my mind, I found myself transported to a bygone era, a time when I was deeply intertwined with the noble members of the royal lycan family hailing from the Sowinski Kingdom.

Prince Atticus, cousin to Prince Alfonso and brother to the Twin Garnets, Prince Alistair and Prince Alejandro, held a significant place in my tumultuous past. Once, I had admired and respected the Twin Garnets, but now, just by seeing any members like Prince Atticus evoked a storm of conflicting emotions within me. The rejection I had experienced from my former mate, Prince Alfonso, cast a shadow over any remaining respect I might have had for them.

"Your Highness, Prince Atticus," I murmured, my voice tinged with a mixture of surprise and caution. I lowered my head in a respectful gesture, unable to attempt a curtsy as I was dressed in a tunic and trousers rather than a dress. "What brings you here to the Estasia Eglaria Kingdom? And why do you seek my assistance?"

Atticus' smile remained unwavering as he took a step closer. "I have been following your impressive career, Professor Czerie. Your reputation as an archaeologist and your expertise in unraveling ancient mysteries are unparalleled. I am embarking on a grand expedition, and I believe that your skills would be invaluable to our team."

I blinked, my mind raced, weighing the pros and cons of accepting Prince Atticus' offer. On one hand, the opportunity to be part of a significant expedition, one that could potentially unearth artifacts of immense historical and cultural significance, was tantalizing. On the other hand, the connection to my past, particularly through Prince Alfonso and the schemes of his twin brothers, Prince Alistair and Prince Alejandro, gave me pause.

"I must admit, Your Highness, your proposal intrigues me," I said, carefully choosing my words. "But why choose me? Don't you already have a team of archaeologists in the Estasia Eglaria Kingdom? What makes my expertise necessary?"

I wanted to say that with his presence here, he just reminded me of his cousin and his twin brothers. But I castigated myself not to let him know that since it would be deemed as if I hadn't moved on from them.

"It was actually my recommendation that brought you into consideration since you are one of the top archaeologists here," Headmaster Heinrich replied, addressing the questions I had posed to Prince Atticus. "When you mentioned your intention to resign from the royal academy and return to your home country, it coincided perfectly with His Highness, Prince Atticus's arrival and his plans for another expedition."

Silence warmed me up before turning at Prince Atticus, who nodded, validating Headmaster Reinrich's words. Observing him closely, it was evident that he had matured significantly. I estimated his age to be around 34 now, considering that the last time I had seen him was when he was just 18 years old. That was back when I had not yet dropped out from the Sowinski Royal Academy.

"I understand," I replied, my chest rising and falling with a sigh as I released the pent-up anticipation. "I will carefully consider your offer, Your Highness. However, for the time being, my priority is to return to my pack after completing this semester."

I knew that I had dedicated my life to the pursuit of knowledge and unraveling the mysteries of the past. This proposal could provide me an opportunity to delve into the depths of history, uncovering secrets that had long been forgotten. However, I was still not ready to face the culprits who almost ruined my life.

At least, not yet.

Expecting that Prince Atticus would be disappointed, but he only smiled, a broadened one. "Certainly." He extended his hand toward me. "I respect your decision," he said, his voice carrying a hint of determination. "But rest assured, this is not the end. Once you have returned to our country, I will approach you again and make every effort to convince you to join my expedition team." A confident smile graced his lips, leaving no doubt in his conviction.

I reached out and clasped his hand firmly, but as his words reached my ears, my smile nearly stretched into a wry one. There was an inkling within me, a faint sense of intuition, that told me he would indeed be true to his words.

As the time for my departure drew near, our encounter and the subsequent conversation seemed to fade away, resembling a bond that had been weakened by rejection. While I busied myself with bidding farewell to my students, fellow archaeologists, and professors, a bittersweet feeling lingered within me. The decision to return to my place of origin was a difficult one, but it was a journey I felt compelled to undertake.

As I embarked on a sea voyage, a mix of anticipation and unease stirred within my heart as the port of the Orkland Piers came into view. I knew that I was nearing the territory of the Silver Growl pack, and the proximity to my pack filled me with a flurry of emotions. Stepping onto the solid ground of my pack's territory, the lingering scent of the sea, infused with a hint of salt, enveloped me, serving as a reminder of the journey I had undertaken to return home.

"Czerie!"

My heart vaulted over my chest, my gaze met the two most important people in my life who had bestowed me a better life.

"Alpha Orlando! Luna Desiree!" Using my wolf speed, I did not hesitate to hug them.

"Oh, Czerie!" they said in unison.

"Careful. Your Luna is pregnant."

I gasped upon learning that. "My apologies, Luna!" I panicked, asking if she was alright.

"I am fine, Czerie." She cupped my face, softening with the way she looked at me. "You have grown so well, dearest."

"Thank you, Luna!" I beamed before lowering my gaze when I noticed a boy who seemed like in his nine years old. Smiling, a deep bow excreted from mine. "Greetings, Lord Dawson."

Lord Dawson only hid behind Alpha Orlando's thighs, where he laughed and carried his son. "My, my... She is our pack member, Dawn. Say hi to Czerie."

Looking hesitant, Lord Dawson bowed his head. "G-Greetings, Czerie..."

I almost squealed at his cuteness, but I remembered that he was the first son of Alpha Orlando and Luna Desiree. "Pleasure to meet you, future Alpha."

"I am certain that you are jaded from your travel, Czerie. You may rest in your room. I managed to have someone to maintain your room in the packhouse."

"Thank you, Alpha. I shall report to you once I have refreshed myself," I said after bowing before them.

As we arrived at the packhouse, a place where the unfortunate pack members lacked parental figures and proper shelter, we gathered together as a large family, seeking solace and warmth amidst our shared struggles. The embrace of my parents was something I could only imagine, for they had passed away before I could meet them. My mother's life had slipped away during childbirth, while my father valiantly fought a terminal illness for five long years before succumbing when I was just four years old. Their absence left a void in my heart, a yearning for the love and guidance that only parents could provide.

Returning to the Silver Growl pack after 15 long years filled me with overwhelming joy. It had been far too long since I last set foot in the pack that held my childhood memories. My dedication to my work had kept me away, engrossed in my passion. However, despite my physical absence, I maintained constant communication with Alpha Orlando through regular telegrams. Our connection remained strong, bridging the gap created by time and distance.

And now, I was back. I would certainly enjoy my life here before starting to look for work.

As I stood before the mirror, gazing at my exposed form, my attention was drawn to my neck. I delicately traced my fingers along the curve, where once a marking from my former mate had been etched. But it had vanished as if it had never existed, leaving only a faint memory lingering in my mind.

"Alfonso..." My tone was smothered with hatred before shaking my head.

In an effort to divert my attention, I resolved to indulge in a lukewarm bath, seeking solace in the gentle embrace of the water as it washed over my body. The sensation helped to cleanse not only my physical being but also the insidious thoughts that had begun to poison my mind, offering a temporary respite from their grip.

In the next few days, I was summoned to the study room of Alpha Orlando once I had learned that I received a letter.

"I am cordially invited to the royal palace...?" I had chills down my spine upon learning that it was a letter that came from Prince Atticus. I read the context of it, and it made me smile wryly upon learning that...

"Indeed." Alpha Orlando was smiling. "His Highness, Prince Atticus informed me that you two met already when you were in the Estasia Eglaria Kingdom." He clasped his hands with a soft expression plastered on his face as he stood up to meet Luna Desiree, who just came bringing refreshments. "Let me help you there, honey."

"You do not need to. Let me handle it." Luna Desiree squinted her eyes, causing him to back down as he sighed, nodding.

"Consider this as an opportunity to elevate your reputation here in our kingdom, just as you have done abroad, Czerie. How do you feel about joining Prince Atticus' expedition team?" he inquired, fully aware that our encounter with Prince Atticus in the Estasia Eglaria Kingdom would inevitably lead to this discussion. Then he pulled Luna Desiree onto his lap, and she settled comfortably, listening to our discourse.

Way to go, Your Highness. You wouldn't let me go to be on your team.

I told him I was still considering it when he brought it up since I promised to make everything up to the Silver Growl pack.

"Well, if that's your plan, why not consider participating in it? It could be a chance for you to make amends with our pack and boost our chances of inclusion in the national trade this year. But ultimately, the decision is yours."

With the fate of the pack hanging in the balance, I wasted no time in giving my consent. The following day, I stood before the grandeur of the royal palace, marveling at its majestic presence.

I stated my visit there and showed the letter sent to me. Then, Prince Atticus' assistant, Sir Caspian, met me in the drawing room.

"His Highness is his study room and wishes to speak with you there." He gestured to follow him, which I did.

As I followed Sir Caspian through the palace corridors, my eyes couldn't help but wander, taking in the opulence that surrounded me. The walls were adorned with richly carpeted tapestries, displaying intricate golden designs that spoke of grandeur and luxury. The marvelous columns that lined the path exuded a sense of architectural splendor, adding to the regal atmosphere of the palace. Each step I took resonated with a hushed elegance, amplifying my anticipation as I approached the prince's study room.

However, as I drew closer to the study room, a mixture of two distinct scents wafted into my nostrils, causing an inexplicable shiver to course through my body, which confused me. It was an uncanny sensation, reminiscent of a long-forgotten memory. My wolf stirred within me, her presence becoming palpable and eager, much like she had been 15 years ago when we discovered that Alfonso was our destined mate. The sudden surge of emotions and memories left me unsettled, as if the past was reaching out to intertwine with the present.

"Um... Is Prince Alfonso here?" There was this uneasy feeling tickling my whole body.

Sir Caspian glanced at me with a straightlaced face. "He is not, my lady." That was all he could say before we stopped at one of the grandiose chambers.

That brought me a great sense of relief. It meant that I wouldn't have to encounter him. It wasn't because I was still nervous or affected by our past, but I simply didn't want to feel any discomfort in his presence.

When Sir Caspian knocked, I flattened my skirt using my hands to look presentable. "Your Highness, Lady Grieco is here."

With that, he slowly opened the door. I heard a wave of laughter filling the room, causing me to inhale sharply. The sharp intake of air revealed the distinct musky, citrusy scent of bergamot and zesty orange, intermingled with another scent of wild forest and a trace of spicy cinnamon.

As the intoxicating blend of scents filled the air, a shiver ran down my spine. My gaze fell upon the two men who bore an uncanny resemblance to each other, the very individuals I harbored deep resentment towards. Simultaneously, my inner wolf rejoiced, whispering a word I had hoped to never hear again...

'Mates.'