My Alpha’s Betrayal: Burning In The Flames Of His Vengeance by Moonlight Muse

3. The Alpha King

enjoy the show. I stepped out and looked up at my Alpha, amusement clear in his eyes. He knew I wouldn’t even last a few minutes… The two men who had been thrown to the ground got up as the king jerked his head in dismissal. “I’m not sure if you are reckless or brave.” The king stated, grabbing a towel and wiping his face which was coated with a layer of sweat. “A little of both?” I suggested when he turned back to me. A predatorial grin crossed his face and he raised his fist, lunging at me without warning. My eyes flew open and I ducked to the left, just as his fist hit the ground, creating a crack. He turned and threw another punch, using all his brute strength. Of course, I wouldn’t last when it came to a battle of strength. Was it disrespectful to defend or attack the king? I kept dodging when the king growled. “Do not run! Attack! I’m sure Will showed you something!” The sudden anger and irritation in his voice at the loss of his closest confidant was raw and clear, sending a stab of pain through me. Of course he had… I would never let my father’s name be tarnished… I knew that he blamed me too. I could see it in his eyes, even if he never voiced it… But didn’t they realise it hurt me too? A flash of anger overcame me, but I didn’t let it show. The urge to release this pent-up irritation was rising within me. If the king had strength, then I had speed. This time when he lunged at me, fist raised, I didn’t duck, blocking it with my arms and gritting my teeth as I felt something break. I twisted, grabbing the king’s thick forearms, and with all the force I could muster, I kicked him straight in the stomach. I do hope he realised I could have kneed him where the sun didn’t shine, but I don’t think it would have been very respectful. He staggered slightly and I glanced at Theon, a flash of surprise crossing his usually arrogant, emotionless face. “Hmph… Talent but no strength.” The king grunted, turning away, a clear signal that we were done. My arms screamed in agony, but they would heal. I looked down, noticing my right one was at a slight angle, but I was not going to snap it into place in front of the king. I didn’t reply, bowing my head in submission. I knew what he meant… the fact that I hadn’t shifted or come into full strength… He picked up a bottle of water, downing it in a few gulps, leaning against one of the pillars as he looked at both Theon and me. I could feel Theon’s gaze burning into me, but I refused to look at him. “Do you know why we are constantly attacked?” He asked. “Everyone wants a slice of the power that the Alpha king holds, and possibly the legend that the one who conquers Astalion ultimately has within their hold the power to rule the thirteen kingdoms and the seven seas.” Theon replied. That old folk’s tale? I know people believed it, but I didn’t think Theon was one for old wives’ tales. The king nodded with a smirk. “Well, that’s a whole load of bullshit, but every myth and legend comes from somewhere.” His smirk vanished and he looked up at the sky. “I trust you both. Theon, we may have only had you here for two years, but you have proven yourself as a loyal warrior, and an honoured member of this pack. I have placed my greatest treasure in your care, and I know you will protect her with everything. You will honour the oath you took when you joined us.” I glanced at Theon, who was simply watching the king indifferently. Both men were regal and powerful, I felt like an unnecessary extra here. Why did he want to speak to me? “She saved my life. That isn’t a debt that I’ll ever forget.” He replied. The king nodded. “Yileyna, you are the… daughter of my closest friend and confidant, and you are also Charlene’s best friend. I know you mean the world to her and despite everything, you do protect her. There is something I need to share with you both…” His gaze scanned the area, making sure we were alone. Why did it feel like whatever he wanted to tell us was very important? “The myth you speak of Theon, the so-called treasure given to the middle kingdom; the heart of Kaeladia, of our world…It’s not a tome or a magical crystal, it’s something entirely different… and the reason no one has ever found it. It’s said to be revealed every few centuries…” I frowned as I began to piece the puzzle together. He mentioned Charlene… Was she somehow connected? “You mean…” Theon murmured, but I could tell from his tone that understanding had dawned on him. “Yes. My daughter is the