The Mated Four

Chapter One: The Outcast

Lily trudged through the forest, her head downcast, as tears pricked at the corners of her eyes. She hated her life in the pack. Every day was a struggle, every encounter a reminder of her place at the bottom of the hierarchy.

As she approached the central clearing, she heard the snickers and jeers of the other pack members. Her heart sank, knowing she was the target of their ridicule.

"Hey, orphan!" a voice called out, followed by a chorus of laughter. "What's the matter, Lily? Can't find your parents?"

Lily's eyes stung as she faced her tormentors. Rachel, a sleek and agile werewolf, stood at the forefront, a sneer twisting her face.

"You're so weak, Lily," Rachel taunted. "No wonder your parents abandoned you. You're nothing but a burden to our pack."

The pack joined in, their cruel words piercing Lily's heart like knives. She tried to defend herself, but her voice was barely a whisper.

Just then, a fierce growl echoed through the clearing, silencing the pack. Marcus, the alpha, strode towards them, his eyes blazing with anger.

"Enough!" he roared. "Leave Lily alone!"

The pack dispersed, their tails between their legs. Rachel shot Lily a venomous glance before slinking away.

Lily felt a small sense of gratitude towards Marcus, but it was short-lived. He turned to her, his expression cold and detached.

"Lily, you're coming with me. The pack meeting will decide your fate."

Her heart racing, Lily followed Marcus, sensing that her life was about to take a drastic turn.

Marcus's eyes narrowed as he gazed at Lily. "You will be given to the Red Moon Pack as a peace offering. It's the only way to avoid war."

Lily's refusal ignited a spark of defiance within her. She stood tall, her eyes flashing with determination.

"I'd rather die than be given to them!"

Marcus snarled, his face reddening with rage. "Fine! You'll regret your decision!"

With a swift motion, he signaled to his guards, who pinned Lily to the ground. The pack gathered around, their eyes gleaming with excitement.

As the guards dragged her away, Lily saw Rachel smirking in the crowd. The pack's chants and snarls grew louder, and the air was heavy with the scent of bloodlust.

Lily's heart raced in horror. The Red Moon Pack was notorious for their brutality, and their alphas, the Grayson brothers, were rumored to be merciless. She had heard whispers of their ruthless rule, their pack members living in fear of their wrath.

"No!" she protested, her voice shaking. "I won't go! They'll kill me!"

Marcus's expression turned cold, his voice devoid of empathy. "You have no choice, Lily. You're a worthless orphan. No one will miss you. You're lucky the Red Moon Pack is willing to take you in."