The tenth full moon cycle of the year—known across the pack as the Harvest Moon phase—arrived cloaked in anticipation and quiet tension. It was the birth moon of Lunara, the favored she-wolf of the den, and within the walls of the pack, it carried a significance far greater than a mere celebration. For Emma, however, that same moon cycle would become something entirely different. It would mark the arrival of her liberator,a she-wolf who would set her free, though she did not yet know it.
Lunara had been born on the tenth night of this moon phase, and as always, her parents prepared to honor her existence with grandeur befitting a high-ranking pack member. Emma overheard Lunara boasting to her circle over the communication device, her voice filled with pride and superiority.
"I'm telling you, the high Luna herself will be present. This isn't just a celebration—it's an event the entire high realm will talk about."
Emma remained still as she listened from the shadows, her heart tightening slightly at the weight of those words.
By the ninth moon-cycle, the entire den had transformed. The household no longer resembled a simple pack residence but a ceremonial ground prepared for royalty. Luna Theresa and Daniel had summoned one of the most renowned event coordinators from the capital of the High Realm, ensuring nothing fell short of perfection. Servants and hired hands moved about like disciplined pack members under command, each fulfilling their roles with precision.
The walls were draped in rich green foliage, intertwined with delicate floral garlands that carried faint, soothing scents. Every mirror reflected the elegance of the preparations, amplifying the grandeur of the space. Carefully constructed arches of balloons stood at every doorway, their colors balanced in a harmonious blend that mirrored the refined taste of the elite. At the entrance of the grand lounge—the heart of the celebration—a decorated photo space stood adorned with vibrant backdrops and crafted props, designed for memories worthy of the High Realm.
As night approached, glowing lights flickered to life, casting rhythmic shadows across the chambers. The atmosphere shifted into something lively, almost hypnotic, as music pulsed faintly through the halls. Emma and Brooklyn had worked tirelessly throughout the day, assisting with arrangements despite Emma's position within the pack. By the time they stepped away, exhaustion clung to them like a second skin.
"This is too much for just a birth celebration. Emma, don't you think?" Brooklyn asked, brushing a strand of hair from her face.
Emma leaned closer and whispered, "I heard Moon Prince , Princes and the high Luna will be here. It's not too much if that's true."
Brooklyn let out a quiet scoff, shaking her head. "That's not true," she said, patting Emma lightly.
"I overheard Lunara telling her moonallies," Emma insisted softly.
"I think she lied," Brooklyn replied thoughtfully. "If the high Luna were truly coming, this wouldn't be the venue. They would have secured a royal hall with elite guards everywhere. And the Moon Prince? He avoids gatherings. Everyone knows that."
Emma nodded slowly. "You're right…"
Brooklyn's expression darkened slightly. "I hate this."
Emma blinked. "Hate what?"
"Your pack -kin can spend all this for Lunara, but they can't send you back to the academy? That's not right. It's abuse."
Emma's voice softened. "Do I need to remind you I'm not their blood?"
"Then they should find your blood pack!" Brooklyn snapped gently.
"Drop it, Brooklyn," Emma said quietly. Thoughts of Oliver surfaced instantly. His promises, his voice, his warmth—it all returned like a distant echo. If he had been there, things would have been different.
Silence settled between them as Emma walked Brooklyn back toward her den.
"Emma… my mother gave me two travel packs. Do you want one?" Brooklyn asked.
Emma shook her head lightly. "I'm not a pup anymore."
"I'll still bring them tomorrow," Brooklyn insisted.
"Give it to Edith," Emma replied absentmindedly.
That night, Emma returned to her chamber and wept silently until sleep finally claimed her.
The dawn of the next day arrived quietly, carrying with it a promise Emma could not yet see.
A soft knock stirred her from sleep. She rose slowly and opened the door, only to find Lunara standing before her in full elegance.
Lunara's crimson gown flowed flawlessly, its design enhanced with gold and silver embroidery beneath her chest. The off-shoulder neckline revealed her grace, and her presence alone radiated confidence.
"Emma, you did well yesterday," Lunara said, forcing a smile. "I'm… grateful."
Emma blinked, surprised, but responded softly, "Thank you."
"To show my gratitude, I told Mother and Father you'll rest today. Servants will handle everything," Lunara added.
Emma nodded. "Thank you."
"One more thing," Lunara continued, her tone sharpening slightly. "Stay in your chamber. Don't come out."
Emma tilted her head. "Why? I want to see the high Luna and the Moon Princess."
Lunara's lips curved slightly. "You don't have the attire for this. I won't have you looking like a servant on my big day."
Emma exhaled softly. "Then I'll leave before it begins."
"Good," Lunara said before walking away.
Emma closed the door, strangely relieved. Being unseen meant peace.
She bathed and remained in her chamber, ignoring the rising sounds outside—the arrival of guests, the admiration, the excitement.
The celebration began at the second hour past midday. Lunara's voice echoed faintly through the halls as she welcomed guests.
Meanwhile, Brooklyn arrived quietly, holding the travel pack. She stepped briefly into the lounge before deciding to leave.
"Hi," a soft voice called behind her.
Brooklyn turned—and froze.
Standing before her was a younger she-wolf radiating quiet authority. Her aura alone marked her as she-wolf of immense importance.
Brooklyn quickly extended her hand.
"Are you Lunara's sister?" the she-wolf asked politely. "I've been asking to see you."
Brooklyn swallowed. "I'm… her moonally."
The she-wolf smiled gently. "Oh… then she hasn't returned?"
"She never left," Brooklyn replied carefully.
The she-wolf's expression shifted. "Where is she?"
"In her chamber."
The she-wolf's eyes lit up. "Good. Take me to her."
Brooklyn hesitated but nodded. "Alright…"
As they moved toward the stairs, the young she-wolf signaled her guards to remain behind.
And just like that, the Moon Princess—Elara, she-wolf of the High Alpha—walked quietly away from the celebration… toward Emma's chamber.