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00:00When my shifter fiancé, Felix Vale, abandoned me in the Old City Forbidden Zone, I heard his thoughts.
00:06Ivy is the perfect mate in my heart.
00:08Too bad we were never meant to be.
00:10Tonight's birthday party is for her.
00:12Let this be our last indulgence together.
00:14Selena's just a powerless waste.
00:16Without me, no shifter would ever want her.
00:18I'll just say a few sweet words later, and she'll come running back.
00:21That was when I finally learned.
00:23The woman Felix had always loved was Ivy Reed, the fake daughter who had stolen my identity for 18 years.
00:29He didn't know the girl he abandoned was about to awaken.
00:32Then I calmly called my father.
00:34About the marriage alliance with the Blacktone family you mentioned before?
00:38I agree.
00:39Really?
00:40Before I could answer, Ivy's voice cut in.
00:43Dad, come on. Felix hired the best pastry chef in the capital for my cake.
00:52The call ended. I called again. No answer.
00:55Cold wind slid under my collar.
00:57Behind me, the brush shook hard.
01:02My blood froze.
01:03A massive charcoal gray wolf stepped out from behind the ruins.
01:07He was nearly twice the size of any normal wolf.
01:09Around his neck hung a blood-stained military tag.
01:12Colonel Maddox Blackthorn.
01:13The war god of the Blackthorn Pack.
01:15Three years ago, his mindscape was shattered on the front line.
01:18Since then, he could no longer shift back into human form.
01:22Every night, psychic storms drove him mad.
01:24The massive wolf stalked closer.
01:26I scrambled back and raised my hands, but he did not attack.
01:33I froze.
01:34For me?
01:35He looked at my hand.
01:40Thank you, wolf.
01:41The broken wolf king was the only one who protected me.
01:44The next second, his massive body convulsed.
01:47He collapsed with a pained growl, choking on a broken wine.
01:50A psychic storm.
01:51Maddox, I've never done this before.
01:55I can't promise it will work.
01:57But I won't leave you here.
02:03Everyone always said I was a powerless waste.
02:05But yesterday, my psychic power awakened for the second time.
02:08When I tested my psychic power...
02:12Oh!
02:13Oh, the monitor exploded!
02:16But before it died, the screen flashed one final reading.
02:19Her psychic power is SS+.
02:24Me?
02:27I had wanted to tell Felix.
02:29I had wanted it to be a surprise.
02:31But he never gave me time to speak.
02:32Maybe that was a blessing.
02:34At first, the wolf struggled.
02:35Then slowly, he went still.
02:38It's okay.
02:39I'm here.
02:40Just before darkness swallowed me, I heard boots pounding over broken pavement.
02:43We found him!
02:44The colonel is here!
02:47And there's a girl!
02:51I woke under a ceiling I did not know.
02:53The room was elegant, cold, and expensive.
03:01Miss Alina!
03:02You're awake!
03:03This is Blackthorn Manor.
03:04The doctor said you drained your psychic core and slept all night.
03:07Maddox, is he alive?
03:09The maid shook her head.
03:11My heart dropped.
03:14I failed?
03:15The door opened.
03:15Lady Blackthorn rushed in.
03:17No, child.
03:18You saved him.
03:20Maddox's collapse rate was above 90%.
03:24The doctor said he had days at most.
03:27After your healing last night, it dropped to 85.
03:31He regained awareness.
03:32So that was why I had not heard his thoughts.
03:35My gift had not failed.
03:36He simply had no conscious mind left.
03:38And still, even feral, he had not hurt me.
03:40He had pushed me a scarf to wrap my bleeding hand.
03:43My fiancé of five years had thrown me into a forbidden zone.
03:46A broken wolf had protected me.
03:48The irony almost made me laugh.
03:50What is your name?
03:51If you can help Maddox, name your price.
03:53Anything.
03:54My name is Selina Reed.
03:56I'm also the woman Mr. Reed planned to send here for the Blackthorn Marriage Alliance.
04:00The Reed family promised us Ivy Reed.
04:03She is supposed to be an A-rank empath.
04:04Now I understood.
04:06The Blackthorns had offered a military-grade healing serum supply line.
04:10They wanted Ivy.
04:11My father could not bear to give up his precious adopted daughter.
04:14But he also refused to give up the Blackthorn fortune.
04:16So he sent me.
04:17The so-called powerless waste.
04:20They probably planned to make me replace her.
04:23The Reed's are bold.
04:26Selina, your SS Plus Awakening stays between us.
04:29Let them regret it themselves.
04:32After Lady Blackthorn left, something shifted at the door.
04:36Maddox stood outside.
04:37Then his thoughts exploded in my head.
04:39She's awake!
04:40She's awake!
04:41That was her power last night.
04:43It felt so good.
04:45Like bathing in moonlight.
04:47Mom says she's my arranged mate.
04:49Whoever said arranged marriages are bad was an idiot.
04:51Do I step in with my left paw or right paw?
04:53Which one looks more dignified?
04:54I stared at him.
04:56Outside, he looked like a king.
04:57Inside, he was a tail-wagging puppy.
05:01Maddox?
05:03He walked to my bed with perfect dignity and lowered his head.
05:07She said my name!
05:08Her voice is pretty.
05:09Her face is pretty.
05:10Wanna nuzzle?
05:10Wanna lick?
05:11Want pus?
05:12I fought a smile and touched his head.
05:14His fur was soft.
05:16Ridiculously good.
05:18She touched me!
05:19She likes me!
05:20Good thing I didn't trip when I carried her back last night.
05:23My image would have been ruined.
05:25You carried me back?
05:26He gave one serious bark.
05:29Of course!
05:30Only I carry my mate.
05:32My ears warmed.
05:33Then my phone lit up.
05:34Maddox looked down.
05:36Why is there a man on her phone?
05:38Does my mate have another dog outside?
05:40Hmm.
05:40He's not even that handsome.
05:42Not one-tenth of me!
05:43I picked up the phone from beside his paw.
05:45As soon as I answered, Felix's furious voice hit me.
05:49Selina, where the hell are you?
05:51We were supposed to register our marriage today, and you stood me up!
05:56I moved the phone away from my ear.
05:58Do you know how long I waited?
06:01Everyone thinks you dumped me!
06:05Marriage registration?
06:07Isn't she my mate?
06:10This man shouts too much.
06:12Terrible emotional control.
06:13Not husband material.
06:15Hmm.
06:15Quiet.
06:16Maddox immediately lay down.
06:17His head resting on the bed like a scolded dog.
06:20She snapped at me for another man!
06:23It's fine.
06:24I must be generous.
06:25Mom says a good mate is obedient.
06:27His thoughts gave me a headache.
06:30Good boy.
06:31I'll be with you in a minute.
06:33There's someone with you?
06:34Selina, did you find another shifter behind my back?
06:37Didn't you say we weren't registering anymore?
06:39You're still mad because I missed your birthday?
06:42Fine.
06:42I'll make it up today.
06:44I heard the familiar words and felt nothing.
06:46For five years, whenever he gave the best things to Ivy first, he always said he would make it up
06:52later.
06:52There was never a later.
06:55Felix, do you even know why I'm angry?
06:58Ivy's soft voice drifted through the line.
07:01Felix, is she still not here?
07:02I booked a fitting with my friends.
07:04We're going to be late.
07:05The call ended.
07:07A message popped up.
07:09You made us late.
07:10We'll register another day.
07:12There won't be another day.
07:16Don't be sad.
07:17You have me.
07:18Wolves are loyal, sweet, and very pettable.
07:22I laughed, despite myself.
07:24Five years ago, the Reeds brought me home.
07:26That was when I learned I was their real daughter.
07:29Ivy was the adopted girl who had lived my life for 18 years.
07:32But I had no psychic power, so my parents only felt disappointment.
07:37On my 18th birthday, every Reed daughter had to choose a shifter mate.
07:43No high-rank shifter will want you.
07:45Go to the shifter registry and buy whatever is left.
07:48That was where I found Felix.
07:50He was badly wounded, about to be disposed of by the registry.
07:53I thought he was like me, abandoned.
07:55So I paid 200,000 credits for him.
07:57I paid his medical bills, fed him medicine, cleaned his wounds.
08:01The day he tested as S-rank, I thought our lives would finally get better.
08:05I had not saved a mate.
08:07I had raised a snake.
08:08Something tugged my sleeve.
08:09I looked down.
08:13Mate, follow me!
08:14I followed him to the third floor.
08:16He shoved open a door on his shoulder and began rummaging through the room like a giant wolf-shaped disaster.
08:22The walls were covered in medals and trophies.
08:24In the center hung a photo.
08:25The man in it was tall, black-haired, with sharp gold eyes.
08:29I had to admit it.
08:30Maddox was much better looking than Felix.
08:36Mate, this is my private vault key.
08:38First meeting gifts are important in wolf culture.
08:40Unlike certain foxes who miss birthdays.
08:43I opened the vault.
08:46I stared for a long time.
08:49This is the first gift I've ever received.
08:52Maddox went still.
08:53Then he dragged out another box.
08:55Don't be sad.
08:56Take it all.
08:57My private savings, too.
08:59Everything mine is yours.
09:00Maddox, I will heal you.
09:03At dinner, I offered to continue treatment.
09:05Lady Blackthorne refused immediately.
09:09Your power just awakened.
09:11The doctor said you need seven days of rest.
09:14Eat first.
09:15You're too thin.
09:19Lord Blackthorne placed a small tube beside my plate.
09:22The best scar cream in the Alliance.
09:24A young lady shouldn't keep scars on her hands.
09:26They did not demand my value.
09:28They did not ask me to heal Maddox at once.
09:30They told me to eat.
09:31To rest.
09:34I remembered my first day back at the Reed House.
09:37My father's first words were not,
09:39Welcome home.
09:40You're useless.
09:43And you look cheap.
09:45I didn't have anything else.
09:47No one asked what I had suffered in 18 years outside their walls.
09:51But the Blackthorns had known me one day.
09:54And treated me like someone worth protecting.
09:58Thanks.
09:59That night, I moved into the room Lady Blackthorne prepared.
10:02The room was deep blue.
10:03My favorite color.
10:05The closet was full of clothes in my size.
10:11A wolf head popped out from under the blanket.
10:15Maddoxen!
10:16Why are you here?
10:17He looked at me with innocent gold eyes.
10:19Warming the bed for my mate.
10:21A proper wolf husband must be useful.
10:24Did you bathe?
10:25Maddox lifted his chest proudly.
10:27I did.
10:28By myself.
10:29I guard my virtue.
10:31No one touches my body except my mate.
10:37You stared at it earlier.
10:38You may touch.
10:41For the first time in years, I slept without nightmares.
10:45The next morning, an unknown call woke me.
10:49Miss Selina Reed, five years ago you claimed the shifter Felix Vale from our registry.
10:54You have not completed the marriage bond within the required period.
10:58Under Alliance law, you may extend the claim or terminate it for a full refund.
11:02Maddox was beside the bed.
11:03The clerk continued.
11:05Please note.
11:06Mr. Felix Vale has awakened as an S-rank fox shifter.
11:10If you extend the fee, we'll be recalculated at his current rank.
11:13A number appeared on my screen.
11:17I almost laughed.
11:19It was dozens of times higher than what I paid for him.
11:23Miss Reed, extend or terminate?
11:25I did not hesitate.
11:26Terminate the claim.
11:27Full refund.
11:29Are you sure?
11:30Once submitted, Mr. Vale's guarantee or file will freeze.
11:33If the final signature is not completed within 24 hours, he may be recalled for reassessment.
11:39I'm sure.
11:40A system message flashed.
11:42Felix Vale's guarantee or file has been frozen.
11:45Notice forwarded to military review.
11:47That fast?
11:49Then Felix's calls started flooding in.
11:55Who is calling my mate this early?
11:58It better not be that fox.
12:04Selina, are you insane?
12:07You terminated my claim?
12:09I was in my military interview.
12:11My guarantor file froze in front of the review board.
12:15They suspended my application.
12:17You humiliated me!
12:20You always said I was clinging to you.
12:22Now I'm freeing you.
12:24Shouldn't you be happy?
12:26Stop threatening me.
12:28You're still throwing a tantrum.
12:30Because I left you in the wasteland.
12:34Selina, don't forget.
12:35No one wants a powerless waist except me.
12:38Maddox let out a low growl.
12:42What was that?
12:43Who are you with?
12:44I looked at the giant wolf beside me.
12:47Eyes icy.
12:48Tail secretly wrapping around my ankle.
12:50My fiancé.
12:54Fiancé?
12:56You mean that useless wolf from Blackthorn?
12:59You'd lie that badly just to make me jealous?
13:01I did not explain.
13:03You'll find out soon.
13:04Then I hung up.
13:06Maddox stared at me.
13:07Outside.
13:08He looked like a war king.
13:09Inside, fireworks went off.
13:13She admitted it!
13:15She called me her fiancé in front of the fox!
13:17This day belongs in wolf history.
13:18The clerk was still waiting.
13:20Miss Reed, can you come in today to sign?
13:24I looked at Maddox.
13:25I need to go out.
13:26Can the family driver take me?
13:28Maddox jumped up so fast his tail nearly knocked over the lamp.
13:32No driver needed.
13:33I can do it.
13:34Wolf war god.
13:35Safe.
13:35Fast.
13:36Comfortable.
13:36Mate protection included.
13:38He nudged my arm.
13:39Eyes bright.
13:40He smiled.
13:41You'll carry me?
13:44He agreed instantly.
13:47I told the clerk.
13:48I'll come now.
13:50Ten minutes later, the butler had brushed Maddox's fur.
13:52His charcoal coat gleamed.
13:54A black military collar sat at his neck, pinned with his colonel medal.
13:58He stood at the manor entrance like a wolf king.
14:00His thoughts were not kingly at all.
14:04Am I handsome?
14:05Will my mate think I'm a hundred times better?
14:08No.
14:09A thousand.
14:11I touched his ear.
14:13Very handsome.
14:15Maddox froze.
14:17She called me handsome!
14:21Move out!
14:23Today the whole city must know she has a wolf!
14:27He lowered himself.
14:28I climbed onto his back and wrapped my arms around his neck.
14:31Then he shot out at Blackthorn Manor like gray lightning.
14:36Wind tore past my ears.
14:38The wasteland blurred behind us.
14:41I held his neck tight.
14:42I was not afraid.
14:43I felt free.
14:44In the city he slowed down.
14:46His steps were smooth, almost noble.
14:49People turned to stare.
14:53What are they looking at?
14:54Their eyes are sticking to my mate.
14:57Too many bad males outside.
14:59Good thing I came.
15:00I almost laughed.
15:01Once I begged Felix to shop with me.
15:04He always said,
15:05It's too chaotic outside.
15:06I'd have to waste energy protecting you.
15:10But when Ivy asked, he drove, carried bags, and waited in lines.
15:14He had time.
15:16Just not for me.
15:17Now I did not want him.
15:20At the shifter registry,
15:22the clerk nearly dropped his tablet.
15:25Colonel Blackstorn?
15:26Maddox gave him one cold glance.
15:28His aura made the room silent.
15:30But in my head, he was shouting.
15:32Yes, me!
15:33Now hurry and refund my mate!
15:34That fox doesn't deserve to occupy her claim slot!
15:37I signed the documents.
15:38The system pinged.
15:39200,000 credits refunded.
15:41Seeing the money return to my account lifted my mood.
15:45I hugged Maddox's neck.
15:47The refund came through.
15:48It's still early.
15:49Let's go shopping.
15:50His tail stiffened.
15:52A date?
15:53This is a date, right?
15:54Our first date and I didn't bring my card.
15:56Damn it!
15:57At the mall, I bought Lord Blackthorn a vintage earth tea set,
16:01Lady Blackthorn moonstone earrings,
16:03and Maddox a tactical watch.
16:05It looked like the one in his old photo, only lighter.
16:09Better for combat.
16:10Maddox flopped onto the floor and rolled onto his back.
16:14No!
16:15How can I let my mate pay?
16:17I am an unqualified husband!
16:19I crouched and rubbed his head.
16:21These are gifts from me.
16:22Of course I pay.
16:24And I just got my refund.
16:26I have money.
16:27He went quiet for two seconds.
16:29Then Joy returned.
16:30Mate's gift!
16:32I'll lock it in the vault and polish it three times a day!
16:36I looked at him.
16:38Gifts are meant to be worn.
16:40When you shift back, wear it for me.
16:43Maddox went still.
16:44His gold eyes turned wet.
16:46She noticed.
16:47My old watch broke on the battlefield.
16:49She remembered that detail.
16:51She loves me!
16:52I love her too!
16:54My ears warmed.
16:55I pretended not to hear.
16:57That night, I gave the gifts to the Blackthorns.
17:00Lady Blackthorn held the earrings and immediately teared up.
17:03I always said daughters are sweeter.
17:05She turned and glared at Maddox.
17:07Unlike certain sons who have never bought their family anything decent.
17:12Lord Blackthorn coughed and adjusted his glasses.
17:15His hand never left the tea set.
17:17From now on, you are half our daughter.
17:20No.
17:21Our daughter.
17:23My nose stung.
17:25In the reed house, I had given my parents gifts too.
17:28They never opened them.
17:29They told the staff to throw them into storage.
17:32Cheap things embarrass the reed name.
17:34But those gifts had been the best I could afford.
17:37The gift was never wrong.
17:38The receivers were.
17:40Over the next few days, I rested and studied psychic healing.
17:43Maddox stayed glued to me.
17:45When I read, he lay at my feet.
17:47When I practiced control, he rested his head on my knee.
17:50Sometimes, when he thought I was bored, he performed a perfect backflip.
17:56What's so good about that stupid book?
17:59She hasn't petted me today.
18:01Don't steal the book.
18:02Mate will be mad.
18:03But I'm dying of loneliness.
18:06His thoughts were too loud.
18:07So I read with one hand and stroked his head with the other.
18:11Sometimes, I squeezed his paw.
18:13Only then did he settle behind me and become my living backrest.
18:18My phone buzzed.
18:20Messages from Felix.
18:26Selina, you really went to the registry?
18:28Do you know how humiliating it was to be dragged out during my military interview?
18:31Mr. Reed said you agreed to the Blackthorn marriage.
18:34No wonder you cut me off so fast.
18:35You already found another man.
18:37I read them once.
18:38Then I blocked him.
18:40People who did not matter did not deserve my emotions.
18:43Behind me, Maddox was thrilled.
18:45Blocked!
18:46Mate doesn't want you anymore!
18:47You still want to join the military?
18:49Once I recover, I'll flatten you into fox jerky!
18:51The image appeared in my head.
18:53Felix getting slammed into the floor.
18:55It felt good.
18:57Maddox.
18:58I closed the book.
19:00I think I'm ready.
19:02Tonight, I'll heal you again.
19:03The doctor said if your collapse rate drops below 80, you may shift back.
19:07Maddox lunged forward and buried his wolf head against my neck.
19:11Lucky day!
19:12First thing after shifting back, I'll avenge my mate!
19:14That night, the healing room was packed outside.
19:17Everyone waited in silence.
19:19I sat beside Maddox and placed my palm on his forehead.
19:24This time, I was not afraid.
19:26I followed the lessons, slowly untangling the chaos in his mindscape.
19:30To my surprise, Maddox did not resist at all.
19:33The book said only a shifter who trusted you completely would allow your power in.
19:37Even a flicker of rejection could trigger a rampage.
19:40My heart steadied.
19:41Half an hour later, I pulled my power back.
19:44Maddox's eyes stayed closed.
19:46His breathing was calm.
19:47The massive wolf vanished.
19:49A tall man sat in front of me.
19:53And he was completely naked.
19:55I stumbled back, my face burning.
19:58When shifters turn human, do clothes not come with you?
20:03Half an hour later, I pulled my power back.
20:06Maddox's eyes stayed closed.
20:08His breathing was calm.
20:09The massive wolf vanished.
20:11A tall man sat in front of me.
20:15And he was completely naked.
20:17I stumbled back, my face burning.
20:20When shifters turn human, do clothes not come with you?
20:24Maddox looked down.
20:25His face stayed calm.
20:27Normally.
20:27Yes.
20:28It's been a long time.
20:29I forgot.
20:30His voice was deep and rough, like wind over midnight stone.
20:34If I could not hear his thoughts, I might have believed him.
20:37He he.
20:38I did it on purpose.
20:40Showcase the advantage.
20:41What does that fox have?
20:42In pictures, he looks small.
20:44I choked on air and started coughing.
20:46Maddox moved in front of me instantly, patting my back.
20:49What's wrong?
20:50Did you drain yourself again?
20:53Then he shouted toward the door.
20:55Mom!
20:55The door flew open.
20:57Lady and Lord Blackthorne rushed in.
20:59They surrounded me and shoved Maddox against the wall.
21:03Selena, where does it hurt?
21:04Where's the recovery serum?
21:05Bring it now.
21:06I finally stopped coughing.
21:07I'm fine.
21:08I just choked.
21:09Lady Blackthorne confirmed I was okay.
21:11Then her gaze moved between me and Maddox.
21:14She paused.
21:15The next second, she grabbed Lord Blackthorne and left.
21:18Young people need privacy.
21:20The door shut.
21:21Silence fell.
21:22Maddox pulled on a robe and knelt in front of me on one knee.
21:26Selena, thank you.
21:28I almost reached out to pet his head.
21:30Halfway there, I remembered he was human now.
21:33It's okay.
21:33I'm happy you recovered.
21:35It's late.
21:36You should rest.
21:37Maddox nodded.
21:38Then he naturally turned toward my bed.
21:40I pushed him toward the door.
21:42Your room.
21:43His calm expression cracked.
21:45She dislikes me?
21:47Was my wolf sleeping posture bad?
21:49I can change.
21:50I can change anything.
21:53I sighed.
21:54I don't dislike you.
21:57I've just never slept beside a man before.
21:59I'm not used to it.
22:00Maddox's eyes lit up.
22:02Good night, Selena.
22:03He left with suspiciously light steps.
22:06Marriage.
22:08Immediate marriage.
22:09I need legal sleeping rights.
22:11The next day, he truly started planning the wedding.
22:14Everything was arranged at the highest alliance level.
22:17Dress.
22:19Venue.
22:20Guest list.
22:22Bond registration.
22:23Moon goddess ceremony.
22:24It all moved so fast I could barely breathe.
22:27But every detail came to me first.
22:29Do you like this?
22:31If not, we change it.
22:34Never make yourself small for anyone.
22:36Being valued felt strange.
22:38So strange I could not refuse.
22:40On the day of my dress fitting, Maddox was supposed to come.
22:44Right before we left, the High Commander called him on a secure military line.
22:48His brows tightened.
22:50I'll be back soon.
22:51I can go alone.
22:52Handle your work.
22:53I smiled.
22:54He stayed silent for two seconds.
22:56Then he called his second in command.
22:58Ford, go with her.
23:00Colonel Ford's mouth twitched.
23:01I'm deputy commander of the Ember Legion, not a bridal boutique bodyguard.
23:04Maddox looked at him coldly.
23:06Ford saluted.
23:07Mission accepted.
23:08At the boutique, a consultant wheeled out a white gown.
23:12Tiny star crystals covered the skirt, shining like a galaxy.
23:16Cotton fabric.
23:17Miss Selina, Colonel Blackthorn had this made for you.
23:20It is the only one in the Alliance.
23:23I was about to enter the fitting room when a familiar voice sounded behind me.
23:27Sister?
23:30I turned.
23:31Evie walked in, holding Felix's arm.
23:33Her eyes landed on the gown.
23:35Jealousy flashed.
23:36Then she quickly smiled.
23:40Sister, why are you trying on dresses alone?
23:43Colonel Blackthorn didn't come with you?
23:45Felix said he would come with me no matter how busy he was.
23:48Felix lifted his chin, like he was waiting for me to be jealous.
23:51I only said,
23:52Move.
23:52You're blocking the way.
23:54Evie's face stiffened.
23:55Then she looked at the gown again, greed in her eyes.
23:58It's so beautiful.
24:00Sister, I love it too.
24:02We grew up together.
24:04Let me have it, okay?
24:05You won't mind, right?
24:08I mind.
24:10I just wanted matching sister dress.
24:13I'm sorry.
24:14This gown is one of one.
24:15There is no matching version.
24:19Selina, Evie likes it.
24:21Give it to her.
24:22Give it to her.
24:23Besides, Maddox is just a barely recovered broken wolf.
24:26You could wear anything and he wouldn't know the difference.
24:29I slapped him.
24:31Hard, the whole boutique went silent.
24:34Felix held his face, stunned.
24:36You hit me?
24:38I stared at him coldly.
24:40Maddox was wounded, protecting the Alliance.
24:43Without him bleeding on the front line, you would not even have the right to stand here
24:47and mock him.
24:49Insult him again, and I'll hit you every time I see you.
24:54Felix's eyes turned red.
24:55He reached for me.
24:56A hand caught his wrist.
24:58Colonel Ford stood behind him, expression like steel.
25:01Mr. Vail, I believe you just applied to join the military.
25:05The first rule of a soldier is never attack a protected civilian.
25:08Your application will be reviewed again.
25:11Felix went pale.
25:12Colonel Ford, this isn't what it looks like.
25:14Selina, explain.
25:15We were joking.
25:16Sister, I know you still care about Felix, but you can't ruin his future because you're
25:20jealous.
25:21I looked up at the cameras.
25:25Should we pull the footage and watch it from the start?
25:27They went silent.
25:29They came in arrogant.
25:30They left humiliated.
25:33After I tried on the dress, Ford looked at me and said quietly,
25:38Thank you for defending the Colonel.
25:39I shook my head.
25:41It was the truth.
25:43Ford was silent for a moment.
25:47Many soldiers go from heroes to monsters the moment their minds break.
25:52If only people remembered what they once protected.
25:55I remembered that sentence for a long time.
25:58That night, Maddox found me on the balcony.
26:03Moonlight covered his shoulders.
26:05He held a bouquet of white roses.
26:07Selina, I came to apologize.
26:10Before I could answer, he stepped closer and took my hand.
26:15You're afraid.
26:16I froze.
26:18How do you know?
26:20My gift is emotion sensing.
26:22Every S-rank shifter developed one special ability.
26:25Mine, as SSC, came with two.
26:28Healing.
26:28And thought perception.
26:30After a long silence, I asked the question buried deepest in me.
26:33If one day I lose my power and become ordinary again, will you still treat me like this?
26:38Maddox did not answer immediately.
26:40He intertwined our fingers and touched his forehead to mine.
26:45Silver light rose beneath our feet.
26:50When I opened my eyes, a crescent mark glowed on his forehead.
26:54I stared at him.
26:56What did you do?
26:58The moon goddess Bond.
27:00His voice was gentle and firm.
27:02From this moment, I can only be loyal to you.
27:06If I betray you, my mind will burn every day for the rest of my life.
27:10My voice nearly broke.
27:13Aren't you afraid I'll stop loving you?
27:14In the Alliance, women were rare.
27:17Healers were rarer.
27:18The law did not limit a woman to one mate.
27:21This bond only bound him.
27:22Not me.
27:24Maddox lifted my hand and kissed it.
27:28Then from now on, I'm the one who should be afraid.
27:31His thoughts flowed into me.
27:35I haven't done enough.
27:37From now on, she gets good morning kisses and good night kisses every day.
27:41If my mate leaves me, the moon goddess will punish me for her.
27:44But she's kind.
27:45She probably won't bear to watch me suffer.
27:46So basically, she'll stay forever.
27:49The fear in my chest cracked under his clumsy, shameless devotion.
27:53I stepped forward and wrapped my arms around his waist.
27:57Maddox, I won't leave you.
27:59He went rigid.
28:00Then he pulled me tightly against him.
28:03I believe you.
28:05Mate hugged me!
28:06So soft!
28:07I want to hold her forever!
28:08Why does alliance marriage approval take so long?
28:11Terrible efficiency.
28:12I should file a complaint.
28:14I laughed.
28:15Before he left, I rose on my toes and kissed the corner of his mouth.
28:20Good night, kiss.
28:22Maddox's ears turned red.
28:23He walked to the door with his left hand and left foot moving at the same time.
28:28Then he suddenly came back.
28:29He lowered his head and brushed his lips against mine.
28:34Good night, kiss.
28:35Then he fled.
28:37Ah!
28:38Was I stupid just now?
28:39Does she think I'm not a war god?
28:41Just a dumb dog?
28:42I shut off thought perception.
28:44Finally, peace.
28:45On the wedding day, almost every powerful family in the alliance came.
28:49After all, this was Maddox Blackthorne's first public appearance since his injury.
28:54Silver-blue star lamps floated above the hall.
28:57The moon goddess crest shimmered across the glass dome.
29:01Guests held champagne and smiled politely.
29:04Their whispers were not polite.
29:07What?
29:08I heard Colonel Blackthorne's mindscape was destroyed three years ago.
29:12Can he really recover?
29:15He's probably just here for show.
29:17The Reed family made a good deal.
29:20One powerless daughter in exchange for a military serum supply line.
29:25She's basically marrying a corpse.
29:28The Reed family stood not far away.
29:30My father and mother wore perfect smiles.
29:34Ivy stood beside them in an expensive gown, staring at the main stage.
29:39Felix's face was dark.
29:40He was probably waiting to see me marry a wolf who could not shift, then regret it and crawl back.
29:46The music began.
29:48The doors opened.
29:49I walked in on Maddox's arm.
29:51He wore a black military dress uniform.
29:54His shoulders were straight.
29:55His medals caught the light.
29:57His dark gold eyes swept across the room.
29:59And the whole hall went quiet.
30:01Then the whispers exploded.
30:04Colonel Blackthorne?
30:06He's human again?
30:08That's impossible.
30:10The First Medical Institute said only an S-rank healer could do that.
30:13When did the Alliance get a healer that strong?
30:16A glass shattered.
30:17Ivy's champagne hit the floor.
30:19Her face went white.
30:20She stared at Maddox, then at me.
30:23Jealousy burned through her eyes.
30:25Felix froze in place.
30:27He was also an S-rank shifter.
30:29But the gap between him and Maddox was not just family or strength.
30:33It was the gap between a war hero remembered by the Alliance and a social climber who barely
30:37passed military screening.
30:40After the ceremony, several military elders surrounded Maddox.
30:46You really recovered?
30:48Who healed you?
30:49You hid this well.
30:50Maddox placed his hand at my waist and drew me forward.
30:53My wife, Selina Reed.
30:56SS Plus Psychic Healer.
30:58She gave me a second life.
30:59The hall fell silent again.
31:01Every eye turned to me.
31:03Shock, envy, disbelief.
31:05The Reed couple turned chalk white.
31:08The daughter they discarded as worthless was a rare SSD healer.
31:12Ivy gripped her skirt until her knuckles blanched.
31:15She was only an A-rank empath.
31:17The Reeds had pushed me into this marriage to protect her.
31:21Now everyone knew.
31:22They had kept the glass bead and thrown away the diamond.
31:27My father reacted first.
31:29He approached with a glass of champagne and a loving smile.
31:34Selina.
31:35You awakened your power.
31:37Why didn't you tell your family?
31:39My mother's eyes reddened.
31:40You silly girl.
31:42Parents and children don't hold grudges.
31:44You will always be our daughter.
31:46Before I could speak, Maddox stepped in front of me.
31:52Where were you when she was abandoned in a forbidden zone?
31:57Where were you when she was forced into this marriage?
32:00Now that she is SS, you remember she is your daughter?
32:04His voice was not loud, but their faces turned ugly.
32:07My father looked at me, certain I would soften and speak for him.
32:11I did not even give him a full glance.
32:14The Blackthorn family did not invite you here for a reunion.
32:17Return to the guest area.
32:19The Reeds left stiffly.
32:23Ladder, I went to the restroom.
32:25When I came out, Felix waited at the end of the hallway.
32:28His eyes were complicated, as if he were the wounded one.
32:32Selina, when did you awaken SS Plus Power?
32:35Why didn't you tell me?
32:36I looked at him and almost laughed.
32:39That night, you brought me to the wasteland and said you had a surprise.
32:43I told you I had one, too.
32:45Did I not tell you?
32:47Or did you never give me the chance?
32:49Guilt flashed across his face.
32:51Then he argued.
32:53Then why didn't you tell me later?
32:56If you had told me, of course I would have married you.
32:59That sentence exposed him completely.
33:01I asked coldly.
33:03So whether you wanted me depended on whether I was useless?
33:07Yes.
33:09Felix, you never loved me.
33:11So why would I marry a man who left me in a forbidden zone?
33:16He had no answer.
33:18After a moment, he gritted his teeth.
33:21You think Maddox loves you?
33:23He only wants you because you can heal him.
33:25A low voice came from behind me.
33:28That is none of your concern.
33:29Maddox walked to my side.
33:31The crescent mark on his forehead glowed faintly.
33:33Selina and I have sealed the moon goddess bond.
33:36For this life, I belong only to her.
33:40Felix's face changed.
33:41Everyone in the alliance knew what that bond meant.
33:44It was not business.
33:45It was loyalty.
33:46Life and pain offered with open hands.
33:49Maddox looked down at him.
33:50If you have time to harass another man's wife, maybe train instead.
33:55I heard Colonel Ford beat you in three moves.
33:58Felix snapped.
33:59With a roar, he swung a fist.
34:02Maddox caught his wrist with almost lazy ease.
34:05Then twisted.
34:06Felix hit the floor.
34:07Maddox looked at him.
34:08I said you were weak.
34:10You didn't have to prove it.
34:11Then he kicked him twice.
34:12I stood beside him and kept watch.
34:15When footsteps sounded nearby, I tugged Maddox's sleeve.
34:18That's enough.
34:19Bad luck if someone sees.
34:22Maddox stopped at once and took my hand.
34:25As you wish.
34:27Felix lay there bruised and furious, watching us leave.
34:32After the wedding, Maddox officially returned to the Ember Legion.
34:36Alliance Media covered his comeback everywhere.
34:38I received an invitation, too, from the Military Neuro Recovery Center.
34:43More precisely, the retired soldier's mental restoration ward.
34:47Manny Shifters there had been forced to retire after psychic storms shattered their control.
34:52They were once heroes.
34:53But once their mindscapes broke and their beasts became unstable, they were locked away as dangers.
34:59I remembered what Ford said in the Bridal Boutique.
35:01Their service should not be forgotten.
35:03So I told Maddox.
35:05I want to go to the Recovery Center.
35:07I want to heal them for free.
35:08Maddox looked at me, eyes bright.
35:11Are you sure?
35:11It will be exhausting.
35:13Dangerous, too.
35:15I nodded.
35:16I have this power.
35:17Not using it would be the waste.
35:20He suddenly lifted me and spun me once.
35:23Selina, do you know?
35:25I thought you came to save me.
35:27Now I see you came to save many.
35:30Soon, news spread that I had joined the Military Neuro Recovery Center.
35:34Some praised me.
35:35Others sneered.
35:37A-rank empaths charge fortunes.
35:39Why is she pretending to be a saint?
35:41Maybe she's using treatment to steal military secrets.
35:43I did not respond.
35:45Every day, I went to work.
35:47The first month, I healed three retired soldiers who were close to permanent beast form.
35:52The second month, seven soldiers dropped below the danger line.
35:56The third month, flowers began appearing outside the center.
35:59Shifters who had been abandoned by families and feared by society stood in sunlight again.
36:03For the first time, I truly felt my existence was not a mistake.
36:08I could choose who to love, and I could choose who to become.
36:12Just as everything improved, a report reached the Alliance inspector's office.
36:16The whistleblower was Logan Hale, a retired soldier I had recently treated.
36:20The report was clear.
36:22Selina Blackthorn repeatedly pressured me during healing sessions to reveal classified military intelligence.
36:26I suspect she and Colonel Maddox porn of treason.
36:30The internet exploded.
36:34I knew free treatment was fake!
36:36She went from powerless to SS Plus overnight suspicious.
36:39Doesn't the insect hive have banned drugs that force psychic evolution?
36:42Investigate the black family!
36:43I stared at the screen as my hands went cold.
36:46Maddox sat beside me and took my hand.
36:49I believe you.
36:53The inspector's office tested Logan.
36:55He did not lie.
36:57Then he believes it happened.
36:58Three hours later, I met Logan at the inspector's office.
37:02Known arm was in a cast.
37:04His eyes held guilt and suspicion.
37:06You say I asked you for classified information during healing?
37:10Yes.
37:12She did ask.
37:14At the same time, his thoughts reached me.
37:17Who else was there?
37:22Only us.
37:25My heart sank.
37:26I never performed healing alone.
37:28Every session had medical logs, nurses, and cameras.
37:35I asked.
37:36Did I ask first, then heal you?
37:40Or ask during the healing?
37:42Confusion crossed Logan's face.
37:44I don't remember.
37:46I don't remember.
37:49When I left the interview room, Maddox was waiting.
37:54How was it?
37:56Logan didn't frame me on purpose.
37:58His memory was altered.
37:59And among the people who hated me, and had the ability to tamper with memory, I knew only one.
38:04Felix.
38:07Maddox's face turned cold.
38:10Leave it to me.
38:11That night, he pulled Logan's movements from the last 72 hours.
38:15The medical center.
38:15His home.
38:17Then, a private clinic.
38:18In the footage, Ivy approached Logan's wife as an empath, and handed her a bottle.
38:26This is the Reed family's newest neural recovery serum.
38:29It will help Logan heal faster.
38:31But it was not recovery serum.
38:33It was a powerful psychic sedative.
38:35After Logan passed out, Felix entered the room and altered his memories.
38:39They thought they had covered everything.
38:41But every military family district had invisible security recorders.
38:45The evidence was submitted.
38:46A memory restoration specialist recovered Logan's true memories.
38:50When the truth surfaced, Logan knelt in front of me, tears hitting the floor.
38:55I'm sorry, ma'am.
38:56I almost destroyed the person who saved me.
38:59You were used.
39:00This wasn't your fault.
39:01Felix and Ivy were arrested that day.
39:03Malicious alteration of a retired soldier's memory.
39:06Fabrication of treason evidence.
39:08Defamation of an alliance her and his spouse.
39:11Inciting public panic.
39:13Each charge was enough to bury them in prison for life.
39:16As Ivy was dragged away, she cried beautifully.
39:19Sister, I was just scared.
39:21I was afraid you'd take everyone's love from me.
39:24I looked at her calmly.
39:26I didn't take anything from you.
39:28You stole it.
39:29Now you're returning it.
39:30Felix stared at me, eyes full of resentment.
39:33Selena, if you had told me you were SS, we would never have ended up like this.
39:36No.
39:38If I had told you, I would have seen sooner that you never loved me.
39:41You're so good, right?
39:42The inspector vehicle doors closed.
39:44Their voices disappeared.
39:46After the inspector's office released the truth, public opinion flipped fast.
39:54I apologize for insulting her.
39:58The Reeds and that couple are disgusting.
40:01Lady Blackthorne deserves the alliance highest honor.
40:04At the same time, I released my official psychic test report.
40:08My SS Pliss psychic power is a natural second awakening.
40:16That statement destroyed the Reed family's final escape.
40:20While people accused me of using insect hive drugs, the Reeds had used the rumors to sell their new serum.
40:26They claimed...
40:26Selena's second awakening happened because she took the Reed group's neural evolution drug.
40:32Desperate people bought it by the thousands.
40:35The Reeds made a fortune in days.
40:43But my report exposed them.
40:45Then the military discovered their so-called evolution drug was not only useless, but caused psychic instability.
40:51Reed group was investigated.
40:53Stocks crashed.
40:54Partners withdrew.
40:56Within a week, the Reeds filed for bankruptcy.
41:02When my parents came to Blackthorne Manor again, they had lost their arrogance.
41:06They stood outside the gates, worn and desperate.
41:11Selena, we know we were wrong.
41:12Your father prepared a share transfer agreement.
41:14Come home, and the Reed family will be yours.
41:18My mother cried.
41:21I'll cut Ivy off completely.
41:24You are our real daughter.
41:26I looked at them through the Iron Gate.
41:29This time, I turned on thought perception.
41:31If she comes back, the family can be saved.
41:34An SS Plus healer is a living fortune.
41:37The whole alliance will beg us.
41:38Just coax her first.
41:39Give her some shares.
41:40In the end, it all stays in the family.
41:43I smiled.
41:46Now you remember I'm your real daughter?
41:50Too late.
41:52Besides, Blackthorne Group transferred 20% of its shares to me yesterday.
41:57What the Reeds have left is not worth my time.
41:59My father's face went white.
42:01I continued,
42:02You love profit.
42:03Not your daughter.
42:04Do not come here again.
42:06The gate closed.
42:08This time, I was not the one shut out.
42:12After that, I kept working at the recovery center.
42:15Busy.
42:16Tired.
42:18Fulfilled more and more retired soldiers recovered.
42:21The alliance also established a mental healing foundation in my name to help ordinary shifters who could not afford treatment.
42:28Sometimes Maddox came from base to pick me up.
42:31He stood outside the medical center in uniform, so cold and imposing no one dared approach.
42:37Only I knew what his mind was shouting.
42:40Is my maid out yet?
42:42Can I hold her hand today?
42:45She looks tired.
42:46She needs a hug.
42:48No.
42:48Public place.
42:49Be dignified.
42:51But she is my wife.
42:52What's wrong with one hug?
42:54I walked over and took his hand first.
42:58Maddox's face did not change.
43:00His ears quietly turned red.
43:03Hand held!
43:05She held my hand first!
43:06This day belongs in wolf history.
43:09I fought a smile.
43:10Why are you here?
43:11Aren't you busy?
43:12He looked down at me.
43:13His voice was low.
43:14I am.
43:15But picking you up matters more.
43:17My heart softened.
43:19Before getting into the car, I suddenly remembered something.
43:23Maddox.
43:24Yes?
43:25Did you already know I could hear shifter thoughts?
43:27His hand froze on the door.
43:29I narrowed my eyes.
43:32So you did know.
43:35Maddox was silent for two seconds, then said calmly.
43:38I guessed.
43:40When?
43:41After the first time you heard me?
43:43The way you looked at me changed.
43:46I crossed my arms.
43:48So all those needy thoughts, jealousy, and begging for pets were on purpose?
43:53He coughed.
43:54Not entirely.
43:55I stared.
43:56He added seriously.
43:57Some were genuine emotion.
43:59I punched his arm.
44:00Maddox caught my hand and kissed it.
44:03I can sense your emotions.
44:05Back then you were always unhappy and used to being cared for.
44:08I thought if my thoughts were noisy enough, at least you might laugh.
44:12My anger vanished.
44:13Anything else you hid from me?
44:15Yes.
44:16He answered too quickly.
44:18I looked up at once.
44:20Maddox's gaze softened.
44:21The first night I met you, I was not conscious.
44:23The psychic storm had torn my mindscape apart.
44:26Only my inner wolf remained.
44:27I didn't escape the manna to hurt people.
44:29I was chasing light.
44:30I froze.
44:32He continued.
44:33When your power leaked out, it covered you like moonlight.
44:36I thought I had seen the moon goddess from the old wolf legends.
44:39Even Feral, I couldn't hurt you.
44:40I wanted to get close to that light.
44:43My heart trembled.
44:44Maddox held my hand tighter.
44:46After I woke, my mother told me you saved me.
44:48At first, I thought heaven sent you to save me.
44:51But watching you at the recovery center, saving soldier after soldier, I understood.
44:54You were not sent only for me.
44:56You were sent for many.
44:57He paused, then added quietly.
44:59Though sometimes I'm jealous.
45:00I laughed.
45:01Jealous of my patience?
45:03Yes.
45:03He sounded completely justified.
45:05They see you more than I do.
45:07Then his thoughts rang out.
45:09Damn it!
45:10Retired soldiers are fine.
45:12But why did that young leopard smile so brightly today?
45:14If he's healed, he should go home.
45:16Stop wagging his tail at my wife.
45:17I finally laughed out loud.
45:19Maddox, you're a wolf, not a jar of jealousy.
45:22He lowered his head.
45:23Wolves are territorial.
45:26You are my moon.
45:27Of course I guard you.
45:29My heartbeat skipped.
45:32That night, a meteor shower crossed the capital.
45:35Maddox led me to the moon goddess statue, where he once bound himself to me.
45:39He took out a ring set with a moon core crystal, the same silver blue as my power.
45:45The wedding was rushed, he said.
45:47I owed you a real proposal.
45:51Selina Blackthorne, will you choose me again?
45:53I remembered the night Felix abandoned me to the Forbidden Zone.
45:57I had thought the world threw me your way.
45:59But it was where my life turned toward light.
46:01I will.
46:02He slid the ring on my finger and kissed my fingertips.
46:05His thoughts were soft.
46:06She chose me herself!
46:09I'm lucky.
46:12That night, when you gave me that scarf, I thought, if you wouldn't hurt me, even Farrell's,
46:16you must be a very good man.
46:19Thank you for pulling me out of a world where no one loved me.
46:22He lowered his forehead to mine.
46:24I fell into darkness.
46:26Then you came, like the moon.
46:28The moon may shine for many, but I fell only for you.
46:31I whispered.
46:32He kissed me under the meteor sky, his crescent mark glowing against my ring.
46:37His last thought reached me.
46:38My moon.
46:39My wife.
46:40My forever.
46:42This time, I kept listening.