The Beast Within

"Amelia!" The Alpha’s voice roars within his study, shattering the stillness of the air; every syllable dripping with impatience.

Her mouth goes dry and a ripple of fear pulsates within her chest cementing her to the safety of her chair. Like a constrictor, fear grips her core and implores her to flee. “Nothing good will come of this!” her mind screams.

“AMELIA!” Another roar, more urgent this time, demands her presence. Slowly, she rises out of her chair, her limbs heavy with apprehension, her heart beating against her ribcage like a caged beast.

Amelia approaches the massive wooden doors with hesitant steps. She is the last of the five girls brought before the Alpha for his Luna selection and although many may consider this an honor, even being nominated as a candidate turned the young woman’s stomach. In her opinion, not only did she not want to even be considered, she felt that she was the least worthy of being the next Luna of the Scarlet Moon pack.

For hours, she has sat watching the other selections ahead of her disappear into the confines of the Alpha's personal office. Distant echoes of horrific growls and yelps, reached through the ominous doors, painting a gruesome picture of what transpired behind them. Dread knots her stomach and her eyes widen. Pools of tears begin to form at the edge of her vision as she contemplates the inevitability of her own fate.

Before the panic consumes her, Amelia touches her delicate fingers on the handle; the cold brass against her skin brings her colliding with reality. It has all felt like a nightmare until this point, a surreal fantasy that she longed to awaken from. But now, as her hand trembles on this great precipice, it is all out of her control.

Amelia takes in a sharp breath, "Y-you are okay..." she recites to herself and her wolf, Harlow, who has been nervously pacing back and forth in her mind. She pushes back the tears threatening to spill, summoning every ounce of courage she could muster and walks into the room.

Taking a few confident steps into the study, Amelia’s gaze sweeps the room before settling on the Alpha seated behind a large desk. The room resembled more of a sanctuary of knowledge than the lair of an Alpha. Shelves lined the walls, each one full with books. The alluring aroma of wisdom and knowledge coupled with a smooth cedar and pine scent, give the room an aged and sophisticated feel.

Cascading light from the setting sun filters through a large window on the far wall behind the desk. The Alpha’s brooding figure sits backlit, and Amelia’s eyes search the face of the figure until suddenly, her eyes meet with those of Alpha Lukas Bardin, the undisputed leader of their pack. His piercing gaze bores into her, quickly devouring her confidence, and she lowers her eyes to the floor.

"Yes, Alpha..." Her words emerge timidly, betraying the strength she fought so hard to convey. The Alpha chuckles when he hears the hesitation in her voice, sending a nervous chill down her spine.

Amelia can feel the weight of his contemplative stare consuming her body. His presence is both intimidating and suffocating, as it engulfs her. The oppressive silence of the room is only broken by the constant pound of Amelia's heart, which she was sure the Alpha could hear.

A sinister smile played upon the Alpha lips, "Look at this sweet little thing, Noah." he says, his words dripping with malice. Amelia’s gaze flickers to a man standing in a darkened corner of the room, lurking in the shadows. His Beta, she presumed, his face hidden, but she can make out strong arms folded across a broad chest.

"Do you think she'll be able to provide me with an heir?" The Alpha’s taunting question hung in the air, as he cocked his head while his eyes explored her shape. As the words leave his lips, Amelia's blush fills her face and her heartbeat quickens. She is grateful that she chose a more modest sundress, as a shield against the Alpha’s leering gaze.

“Hmm…okay.” the Alpha mutters under his breath, his eyes lingering on her with unsettling intensity. “I guess you'll do.”

The Beta in the corner clears his throat, a playful tone in his voice, "Oh come on, Lukas, don't frighten the poor girl." he teases, "She's not just a piece of meat, ya know. You are considering her as your Luna, after all, aren’t you?."

Amelia's blush suddenly drains, as a familiarity with the Beta’s voice ignites her memory. "Could it be..?" her mind wanders, not realizing that she was holding her breath again.

A guttural growl pulls her from her thoughts and fills the room. The Beta slowly shifts his position facing away from Amelia, possibly aware that he should keep his opinions to himself. The Alpha gives him a side eye before letting out a satisfied huff before turning his attention back to Amelia.

"Look at me, girl." the Alpha commanded, and Amelia obeyed, her eyes meeting him for the first time. She took in his imposing figure before her, his chiseled features, and inherent confidence - the ideal leader for any Lycan pack.

His blonde hair is slicked back, showing his prominent widow's peak pointing past a strong brow and into his deep blue eyes. Amelia's gaze travels to the Alpha's lips that are spread thinly around a dazzling smile. His clean-shaven face only accentuates his sharp jaw and thick neck; while his button shirt grips tightly to his form, leaving little to the imagination.

“Do you like what you see, sweet girl?” he teases, and Amelia can feel her face burn with embarrassment.

“Turn around for me. Let me get a better look at you.” The Alpha commands as he lets his arms drape lazily along the armrests of his oversized leather chair.

Amelia spins slowly and deliberately in the middle of the study, the hem of her dress fluttering only slightly above her knees. Her shallow breaths and pounding heart echo in her head as the Alpha continues to scrutinize her from across the room. He sways side to side in his chair causing it to squeak, taming the silence, as she stops, facing him.

He stays like this for a moment, maintaining his eye contact with Amelia, before suddenly leaning forward, “Come here.” He beckons, gesturing to a chair sat in front of him, as he begins to rummage through some files on his desk.

Amelia crosses the room to the chair. She sits confidently, her posture straight and her expression composed, meeting his gaze with unwavering certainty. Amelia has always been a strong and assertive woman, and she was disappointed with herself for allowing this man, Alpha or not, to intimidate her earlier.

“Thank you, Alpha.” she says politely while giving him a soft confident smile, keeping her eyes intertwined with his stare. Amelia somehow felt more steady being closer to him. Her gallant demeanor being unexpected, the Alpha raised a brow as his lips curled more tightly around his smile.

“Tell me, sweet girl-”

“Amelia.” she interjects without missing a beat, her gaze resolute - and her smile steadfast.

The Alpha’s eyes narrow at her interruption, and her heart skips. “Was that too brazen?” her mind whirls, but she's careful to keep her expression neutral. A flicker of annoyance graces the Alpha’s strong brow, “What was that?” he asks pointedly, demanding an explanation.

Amelia takes a slow breath, “My name is Amelia. Amelia Ricard, Alpha.” she says firmly, her voice laced with respect. She lowers her eyes and nods into a bow, hoping this simple act of reverence and submission will be enough to appease him.

He pauses momentarily, before turning back to his papers, “Lukas.” he states, almost as an afterthought, and Amelia clears her throat. “You can call me Lukas.” he adds, and gives her a slight smile, “It’s my name after all.” His voice drips with charm, and Amelia quickly moves her gaze away from the Alpha, thankful for his change in demeanor, but struggling to keep from rolling her eyes at his pointed flirtation.

“So, uh, why don’t you tell me a little bit about yourself, Amelia Ricard.” Lukas asks, his attention diminished, as he sorts through files on his desk.

She wasn’t prepared for an interrogation. It never even crossed her mind that she would get this far into the selection process.

Her hesitation does not go unnoticed, earning the Alpha’s scrutiny once more, “Am I boring you, Amelia?” he probes, his eyes wide with curiosity, as he places his elbow on the middle of the desk and props his strong jaw between his finger and thumb, his gaze fixed on her once more.

Flustered, and she quickly apologizes, “I-I’m sorry, Alpha, I just wasn’t-”

“Lukas. Call me Lukas.” he interrupts smoothly, with an alluring smile, “I want to hear how my name sounds on your lips…such luscious lips, too, I might add.” he adds with a suggestive wink.

Caught off guard by the forwardness of his flirtation, Amelia begins to rattle off her statistics like a rehearsed script, “Well, I am 24 years old, stand five foot seven, and weigh about 132 pounds.” Her mind is a flurry and completely blank at the same time, “I have auburn hair and hazel eyes.” Her words come out mechanical as she attempts to appease his request, “Um, I spend most of my time reading novels, and enjoy being alone, but I do well in social situations as needed.” She becomes more flustered as the words fall from her lips, “I’m a fairly good cook, or so I’ve been told, I have several hobbies, but…hmm.” she trails off.

As she finishes speaking, the room falls silent for a moment as she collects her wits, before looking directly at the Alpha, emboldened to defy and challenge his instructions.

“I’m sorry, Lukas.” she interjects, impressed with the boldness of her tone, “I’m afraid that I’m not exactly sure what you would like to know about me. I believe that you have all the notes about my skills, talents, and abilities there in front of you.” she continues, gesturing towards a file on his desk that bears her name. “If there is anything specific that you would like to know about me, I would be more than happy to fill in the blanks for you.”

In that moment, the silence of the room hangs heavy, while Amelia relaxes into a confident smile. Surely, the Alpha will not select her as the next Luna after that little speech. He was an Alpha, after all, and Alpha’s don’t take to anyone challenging them. Amelia feels that she has effectively neglected to follow his instructions, but with the utmost respect, and will hopefully keep her life. Her tenacity was soaring until she saw the arms of the man in the corner stiffen, and his stance shift to face her. A lump begins to form in her throat. “Now, THAT was too brazen!” her mind starts to panic.

As the silence lingers, Amelia's smile begins to fade, when Lukas lets out an eruption of laughter. “Now, this is what I’m looking for, Noah!” he exclaims, stretching out his muscular arms, and gesturing to Amelia. “Not one of those little sluts we had in here earlier who thought that I just need someone to fuck.” he adds, a hint of annoyance in his voice. “I can get laid whenever I want.” Lukas snickers and winks at Amelia.

If what he said wasn’t so repulsive, Amelia would have blushed at his attempt to flirt with her. Instead, she simply blinks slowly and keeps the smile plastered on her face, refusing to give him the satisfaction of her discomfort, regardless of how powerful he is.

“Very well then, tell me, what do you think of the pack that I’ve created? You said that you’re what, 24? I have been the Alpha for about half of your life. How do you think I’m doing so far?” Lukas speaks with such confidence and arrogance; Amelia isn’t sure how best to respond.

Drawing upon her partial truths and diplomacy, Amelia responds diplomatically, her words carefully chosen to appease the Alpha's ego while maintaining a semblance of honesty. “Lukas,” she says sweetly. The Alpha closes his eyes, as if soothed by the sound of her speaking his name, “you've obviously done an amazing job of ensuring our pack’s survival as well as our prosperity, which should be commended.”

Lukas leans back into his chair and folds his hands across his chest, hanging on Amelia’s every word.

“You have provided our pack with security from any outside threats while also fostering relationships with other packs, as well as the humans - feats that are not easily achieved in any Lycan pack.”

“Go on.” he encouraged, standing from his chair. Amelia keeps her surprise hidden from her face, as she didn’t realize how tall he is, towering at nearly six foot five.

“As you mentioned, I have only known you as the leader of our pack for about half of my life, and I scarcely have any memories, or even concerns about the previous Alphas.”

In a few short strides, Lukas is standing behind her, gently dragging his fingertips along the back of her chair. As he passed by her, the scent of cedar and pine swirled around her; she breathed it in, allowing herself to get lost in the familiar comfort it brought to her.

“You’re doing a really great job, Amelia.” Lukas mutters in her ear. His hot breath barely reaches her neck, and she shutters, sending shivers down her spine. He lets out an amused chuckle as he stands behind her, lightly touching the ends of her auburn curls.

“Thank you, Lukas.”

“But,” he asserts aggressively, gripping the back of her chair, “I’m more interested in what you think you know about me, rather than hear you recite my many accomplishments.”

Amelia’s mouth goes dry, how could she possibly share what she has learned or heard of the Alpha without putting her life in further jeopardy?

Lukas is infamous for his ruthless leadership. It has been rumored, by many reliable sources, that he kills at even the slightest offenses; including the fate of his two previous chosen Lunas. It is alleged that one had been disobedient or defiant in some manner, and he ripped her throat out right there. The other Luna, some reported that the Alpha had grown tired of her, and she was never seen or heard from again.

As brutal it may be, this is just the way that their pack operated – blind faithfulness and dedication to the regulations and laws imposed by the Alpha. There is no word higher or greater than his, and should you find yourself in a position of contempt, you pray that your end is swift.

Amelia attempts to clear her dry throat as she struggles to navigate a reply to the Alpha’s inquiry. She endeavors a response through treacherous waters; steady and cautiously, she speaks.

“It is common knowledge among our pack that you do not respond well to those who may defy you or question your judgment. Perhaps there have been some liberties taken when these rumors have circulated - which may have even worked in your favor.”

Lukas walks in front of Amelia, eyes glimmering with intrigue, “Continue.” he orders as he sits on the edge of his desk.

Raising her head to meet his stare, Amelia chooses her words thoughtfully, “Ultimately, there is a consensus that your methods are brutish when it comes to dealing with challengers or enemies. However, without witnessing an event or circumstance of that nature firsthand, I can’t say that I have the ability to come to an informed conclusion.”

Lukas claps his hands together before speaking, “Let’s assume that you believe these stories that you’ve heard about me - whichever ones you may find to be most believable. What would your opinion be of me then?” he petitions, raising a brow.

Amelia chooses her words carefully, “If what I have heard is true, I would question the necessity of certain actions that you have taken, when there were several alternatives that could have played out.” her voice trembles as she speaks, knowing that few have spoken to their Alpha this way and have lived to share the story. “That said, I am obviously not fully informed of all the circumstances surrounding these situations, and will always defer to your astute judgment when handling the matters of the pack.” Amelia softens her words. “This is why you are the undisputed Alpha, and I am simply a lowly member of your pack. It is not up to me to make those kinds of decisions or judgements, Lukas.” she says, finally lowering her head and breaking her confident stare.

“Hmm.” Lukas hums, giving her a look of amusement and curiosity. “You are peculiar, Amelia. That's for sure.” his tone contemplative as he paces in front of her. “Definitely unique among all the other selections I've had these last few days. And clearly the most bold woman that I have met in many years.” he adds with a smile.

Amelia sits in stunned silence, unable and unsure of how to respond - so she keeps her mouth shut.

“I do have one last question for you, Amelia.” Lukas speaks ominously as he leans towards her, his gaze locking onto hers with unwavering intensity.

Amelia's heart slams into her chest, her pulse thumping in her ears, as the Alpha closes in on her. His captivating gaze locks onto hers with unwavering intensity. “Do I frighten you?” he questions quietly, his blue eyes dissipating to black, as the veins in his neck begin to bulge.

“I would be lying if I said anything other than yes.” she confesses. The words escape her lips without a thought, and her mouth hangs agape as she stares into the blackened pupils of the Alpha.

“Good. You better remember that.” he murmurs, his lips pulling into a devilish smile.

As the sun sets, an eerie darkness fills the room. Amelia sits frozen in her chair, suffocating under the immense pressure of her encounter. She feels an involuntary tear slide down her cheek as she watches the Alpha open her file, his decision made without a second thought.

“Noah, she’s simply perfect.” Lukas declares, clasping his hands together with a triumphant smile lighting up his face. “She will be my new Luna.” he announces, seemingly unaffected by the tensions engulfing the room moments ago. “Go ahead and make the preparations, I want to get this moving.” Lukas commands briskly, shoving the chair back from his desk and quickly rising to his feet.

Leaning over the desk, Lukas’s large hands press into the leather top as he whispers to Amelia, “I am looking forward to this, sweet girl.” he breathes, his eyes closing briefly as he inhales her scent, his devilish smile pulling across his face once more.

Amelia’s heart sinks in her chest as she absorbs the weight of his words. She couldn’t fully accept, or even comprehend, what had brought her to this point. Was it the realization that she was now destined to be the new Luna, with the weighty responsibility of providing the Alpha with an heir? Or was it the chilling reminder of the consequences she had narrowly escaped, knowing that her insubordination could have cost her life?

As the thoughts swirl through her mind, she remains seated, unmoving. The dried tears on her pale cheeks serve as a silent testament to the turmoil within her. Her plan had gone terribly wrong, leaving her feeling more lost and confused than ever before. And as she watches Lukas exit the room, she can’t help but wonder what the future holds, dreading the inevitable nightmare that awaits her.