Chapter 10 The air in the cave seemed to solidity. The pheromones I emitted stood equal to Lucien's icy pine-and-snow scent, even slightly overpowering it. This kind of bloodline suppression was the most primitive, insurmountable rule in werewolf society. The shock on Lucien's face gradually morphed into a complex mix of emotions-astonishment, and a thread of confusion. He looked at me as if seeing me for the first time. "Ancient bloodline... 'Sovereign of the Wastes'..." he muttered to himself, storm clouds raging in his silver-gray eyes, "The legendary lost bloodline said to rival the Wolf King... it truly exists... and in you..." Olena hid behind him, trembling, looking at me as if I were a monster. Michael stood by my side, relaxed, as if everything unfolding was expected. He regarded Lucien coolly, a hint of mockery in his tone. "Lucien, do you still think you have the right to demand she return and play the pathetic sub*stitu*te?" Lucien's face turned ashen. His lips moved, but no sound came out. He was accustomed to control, to being superior. Now, he was utterly defeated on a bloodline level by a "shadow" he had never regarded. This blow was far more profound than a physical defeat. I felt the power coursing through me, a warmth so intense it welled behind my eyes. So, such immense power had been dormant within me all along. It had just been deeply sealed by eight years of repression, by the "shadow" identity, by constant negation. Leaving, resisting, facing fear... had been the hammer that shattered the seal. Allowing the real me to break free. I took a step forward. My gaze was calm as I looked at Lucien, and at the direction I once called "home" behind him. "Lucien, listen carefully." "Eight years. I spent eight years repaying my family's debt for my life, and your so-called 'shelter."" "I owe you nothing. I owe Leo nothing." "From this day forward, I am Elara. Only Elara." "My path is my own to walk." Chapter 10 Having said that, I didn't wait to see the expression on his face. It no longer mattered, I turned to Michael, offering a truly relaxed, relieved smile. "Let's go." A light shone in Michael's eyes. He nodded. "Alright." Side by side, we walked towards the cave mouth, passing the rigid Lucien. We did not look back. Exiting the cave, the sunlight was a bit dazzling. But I found it wonderfully warm. Everything was full of promise. "What are your plans now?" Michael asked, his tone light. I thought for a moment, gazing towards the horizon where sky met earth. "First, I'll travel around. See what the world is really like." After sleeping for eight years, it was time to wake up. Michael smiled. "Perfect. I'm used to wandering myself. How about... company?" I looked into his amber eyes. They held sincerity, freedom, everything I yearned for. "Alright," I nodded. The direction was unknown, but it was free. I knew there might be more mysteries and challenges waiting ahead. But I was not afraid. Because this time, I was not alone. And I finally possessed the strength and courage to face anything. I was no longer Elara, Serena's shadow, surviving only by attaching myself to others and living in disguise. The castle behind me, and all the love and hatred that transpired there, became a blurred silhouette of a distant past. The wind whispered past my ears, carrying scents from afar. My story. Chapter 10 It had only just begun. Chapter 1 Let's Get a Divorce In the world of "Crimson Heiress" by CrushReel, business magnate Zelda falls victim to a treacherous plot orchestrated by her own brother and husband, unwittingly surrendering her empire to the cunning Yasmina. As Yasmina's sinister intentions unravel, Zelda meets a tragic fate. However, a twist of fate brings Zelda back to life, setting the stage for a riveting saga of betrayal, revenge, and redemption. Exploring themes of deceit, power struggles, and the complexities of relationships, "Crimson Heiress" delves into the intertwined lives of its characters against the backdrop of a captivating blend of CEO dynamics, time travel elements, and mysterious reincarnations. The narrative unfolds within the opulent setting of a grand mansion, where secrets are as abundant as the characters' ambitions. As Zelda navigates through her journey of transformation and retribution, readers are drawn into a web of drama that promises unexpected twists at every turn. What sets "Crimson Heiress" apart is its seamless fusion of suspenseful storytelling with elements of glow-up narratives and intricate character developments. With its gripping plotline and immersive exploration of vengeance and second chances, this ongoing tale captivates audiences seeking a compelling blend of mystery and drama. Discover the allure of "Crimson Heiress" for yourself; available to read online at CrushReel.