Fangless: The Alpha's Vampire Mate
Chapter 62: A Masquerade Gone Wrong

Chapter 62: A Masquerade Gone Wrong

Riona found that racing against a werewolf pushed her to her limit, which was exhilarating. She lost her breath and was drenched in sweat, but she felt as refreshed as she did after training sessions.

It seemed their little marathon had the same effect on Thorin, who was smiling ear-to-ear. He laughed occasionally, wiping the sweat from his forehead. His previously neat hair was now messy.

Not even the snow or the cold could stop their bodies from warming up.

"That was unexpectedly fun," he exclaimed, panting.

As they caught their breath, Thorin suddenly came close to her and touched her hair. He brushed off the strands covering her face. Some had become sticky with sweat, but Thorin was unbothered and touched her sweaty temple.

It was common knowledge that Thorin was handsome. Anyone with eyes could see that. But somehow, the word handsome took on a different meaning for Riona.

Thorin was a total mess compared to how well-groomed he had been at noon. By midnight, his appearance had drastically changed. Yet, Riona found Thorin most endearing at this very moment.

Perhaps it was the way the crimson moon shone on his dark hair. Or maybe it was the deep sincerity in his amber eyes as they stared at her. Or it could be his delicate touch as he traced her skin, careful not to hurt her.

Before she realized it, she was already staring at him intently, lost in her thoughts.

Thorin grinned, noticing Riona’s intense gaze. "Admiring the view, are we?" His eyes sparkled with amusement as he leaned closer.

Riona’s cheeks flushed, and she quickly looked away. "I-I wasn’t staring. Just... observing."

"Observing, hmm?" Thorin chuckled softly. "Oh, come now, Riona. It’s okay to admire perfection."

"I find you... annoyingly persistent," Riona shot back, attempting to regain her composure as she walked forward, leaving Thorin behind.

Thorin effortlessly caught up with his long strides. "Annoyingly persistent or irresistibly charming?"

Riona rolled her eyes, but a smile tugged at the corners of her lips. "You wish," she retorted.

"I can’t help it if you find me irresistible." Thorin playfully shrugged. Leaning closer, he locked eyes with Riona. "And you are enchanting."

She was not used to compliments about her appearance. When someone did praise her, she was normally indifferent because 1) she could care no less about how people saw her, and 2) she wanted to be recognized for her power and skills.

However, this time, it was different. Riona didn’t know what occurred, but she blushed involuntarily at the sudden, unsolicited flattery.

Riona quickened her pace to evade Thorin and his teasing banter. The Alpha werewolf remained amused, trailing behind with a smirk.

It wasn’t until they reached the grand hall’s door that Thorin slid forward, placing his hand on the handle. He turned to Riona with a dramatic smile. "Ready to dazzle the nobles, Riona?"

He pushed the door open, and they stepped into what felt like another world. The room fell silent. Even the music ceased as Riona and Thorin entered the grand hall.

All eyes—vampire and werewolf alike—were fixed on the belated couple. They became the center of attention. Despite wearing masks to conceal their identities, the guests knew who Thorin and Riona were.

Riona might have attributed the attention solely to Thorin’s presence if not for the disapproving looks directed their way. Usually, the female vampires would drool over Thorin’s visual. Even with the mask on, Thorin’s allure still shone through.

Something seemed amiss as if something bad had happened, dulling even Thorin’s charm.

She whispered to Thorin, "The atmosphere feels... off. Do you sense it?"

"Yeah. It’s suffocating. Did they forget to mention the frown as part of the masquerade dress code?"

These vampires appeared visibly upset about something. Riona made a point of meeting the eyes of each vampire to uncover the underlying tension.

What is it? What’s the problem?

Upon spotting familiar faces, Riona hurried towards them. Coincidentally—or not—everyone from Riona’s side was grouped together: the werewolves, Florian, Sir Kai, and Count Charles.

Wait, why was only Count Charles here? Where were the other nobles who had pledged their support? Riona’s heart sank as she noticed the absence of anyone else.

An ominous feeling crept over her, sending goosebumps down her neck. She shivered, spinning around frantically to search for the missing nobles. "Where are they? Don’t tell me...!"

Count Charles clenched his fists, his voice tight with anger. "Those traitors!"

Realization dawned on Riona with a pang of regret. She shouldn’t have gone to the dress shop. She should have arrived in the grand hall before everyone else. If she had known that this would happen...

What could she have done to prevent this from happening?

"The nobles reported your mutiny against His Majesty the King," Sir Kai said through gritted teeth, barely containing his fury.

No wonder the guests looked at her with such disdain. Riona could already imagine the rumors swirling after the accusations of treason.

The gossipmongers would undoubtedly spread to various groups and embellish the news for juicier, more scandalous tales.

The gossipmongers would undoubtedly seize upon the news, embellishing it for juicier, more scandalous tales.

"I always knew she was trouble. That fangless girl is notorious for her barbaric and erratic behavior."

"Oh, I heard about that! Didn’t she destroy the sacred Umbra Grounds? My word, how reckless!"

"But a mutiny? What more does King Valentin need to do for her? He took her in—a fangless orphan—into the palace after she lost her parents. Is this how she repays his kindness?"

"It seems she’s also claimed Alpha Thorin for herself."

"By the Dark Lord, is that true? I thought Alpha Thorin would marry Princess Lisbeth for certain. They seemed such a perfect match."

"I know, right? I was quite shocked to hear it. How could she steal her own cousin’s man, of all people?"

Riona shook her head, dismissing the negative thoughts from her mind. Dwelling on them wouldn’t help. She needed to take action.

"Is this a bad time to bring up the case to His Majesty?" she asked, although she wasn’t really seeking permission, more issuing a warning.

Florian tugged at her sleeve, shaking his head in worry. But Riona gently peeled his hand away. "I’ll be okay, Flo. This has to be done now or later, but I prefer now."

Taking a deep breath, Riona approached the man she feared most. Her heart pounded, but she pressed on, squeezing her hands behind her back to steady herself.

"I’m here with you," Thorin whispered suddenly close to her.

She turned, surprised to see him, though she remembered his promise to stand by her. Drawing courage from his presence, she walked with more confidence.

Bowing before King Valentin, Riona avoided his eyes. "Your Majesty, I’d like to report an injustice committed by your lady and your daughter."

Tonight would be an all-out battle.

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