* The Queen’s Chambers *
A faint scent of burnt herbs lingered in the air as Queen Elira stood alone in her private chamber, a place forbidden to anyone but herself. The walls were covered with ancient runes, old magic humming softly beneath the surface. Silver moonstones glittered faintly, casting pale light that danced across the floor. Her hands hovered over a shallow stone basin filled with dark water. In the reflection, Crystal’s face flickered...bright with untamed power, her silver glow unmistakable. “She has awakened” Elira murmured, her voice smooth but sharp with cold intent. “At last, the Daughter of the Moon stirs and with her the key to my return” A figure shifted behind the curtain of shadows...one of her most trusted agents, cloaked and faceless. “Prepare the altar in the hidden cha*Starblood pack—The Alpha's Chamber*The morning sun spilled gently across the furs, filling the room with warmth.Crystal stirred beneath the sheets, her body aching not from pain but from the beautiful, sacred intensity of the night before.She reached out, her fingertips brushed warm skin.Ryder.He lay beside her, shirtless and still, his arm around her waist. His eyes, though closed, fluttered faintly, as if he were already half awake.“You’re awake,” he murmured, voice rough from sleep.“I am,” she whispered with a small smile.He shifted, pulling her closer. “I was afraid last night was a dream.”Her fingers moved over his marked chest, tracing the golden lines that shined faintly. “If it was, then we dreamt it together.”Ryder opened his eyes, golden and soft now, filled with reverence. “I marked you, Crystal. And I’ve never felt more whole.”“I felt it too,” she whispered, her voice trembling. “Like something inside me cracked open and finally… finally spoke.”She paused, a c
The Mating Night — The Alpha’s Chambers* Ryder carried Crystal through the silent corridors, his grip firm but gentle. She lay cradled in his arms, her head resting against his chest listening to the steady beating of his heart—her Alpha, her mate. The fire in his eyes had not dimmed since the bond sealed in the Great hall. Inside their chambers, moonlight spilled through the open windows turning the room into a dream. He set her down gently but his hands never left her waist. His golden eyes met hers, fierce and raw. “You’re mine now,” he growled softly, reverent. “Completely.” Crystal’s breath hitched as her hands slid up his chest, fingers grazing the embroidered collar of his tunic. “And you’re mine,” she whispered. He crashed his lips against hers, slow at first, tasting her as if she were made of starlight and breathless promises. But the kiss deepened. Hungry, desperate, claiming. When he pulled back, his eyes burned brighter. “Are you ready?” She nodded once
*Star Blood Pack—The Luna’s Chambers*The moon hung in the sky, its light flooding Crystal’s room with an ethereal glow. Her reflection shone in the mirror, draped in silver and twilight blue, the ceremonial markings glittering along her collarbone like stars etched in skin.She stood still.Calm. Ready.The faint weight of the poison no longer dulled her senses A knock.Aria entered silently, eyes downcast. “Your crown, Luna.”Crystal took the thin silver circlet, her fingers brushing Aria’s trembling ones. “Aria,” she said softly. “You can still stop. Whatever this is, whoever is making you do it—”“I’m sorry,” the girl whispered, and fled.Crystal sighed.*The Great Hall—The Ceremony Begins*Torches lined the pillars of the Great Hall. Moonlight filtered through the high windows, casting light on the polished flo
*Starblood pack—The Luna's chambers* Crystal awoke with a jolt The moonlight had shifted, casting long silver trails across the floor. There was no pain this time, she only felt being watched She sat up slowly, bare feet against the cold floor. She moved to the balcony, the night wind brushing her cheeks. The garden below shined with pale light Then a movement. Not a servant. Not a guard A shadow It stood beneath the flowering tree, silver eyes gleamed in the dark. Its fur was midnight black and yet it glowed faintly as if it had stepped from the moon itself Her growled in recognition, though she did not understand why “Who are you?” she whispered, her voice caught between fear and awe The shadow tilted its head. Then in a blink, it vanished A pulse of energy rushed through her She swayed on her before catching her balance. That presence wasn't hostile. It was protective and familiar but it wasn't Ryder. She gripped the balcony rail tightly. *Starblood pack— Al
*Star Blood Pack — The Luna’s Chambers * The light of early dawn crept gently across Crystal’s face, waking her from restless sleep. The weight in her chest lingered, thick, unwelcome, like a cold chain wrapped tight around her lungs. Her wolf stirred uneasily, claws scraping at the inside of her mind. She sat up slowly, dragging a shaky breath as warmth crept into her fingers. The odd heaviness she’d carried for days wasn’t gone, but something inside her was changing and pushing back. Her eyes drifted to the polished glass across the room. In the faint reflection, her skin glowed faintly with silver light flickering like a restless fire beneath her flesh. Her wolf’s power, quiet no longer, hummed steadily under her skin. A knock sounded at the door. “Luna? Are you awake?” Aria’s timid voice slipped through the crack. Crystal hesitated. She sensed something strange again, the scent of herbs clinging to the maid’s clothes. Her wolf growled low in warning. “Leave the tray outsi
* Star Blood Pack — The Luna’s Chambers * The night air was cool against Crystal’s fevered skin as she lay curled beneath the soft furs. Her wolf prowled restlessly within her, caught between strength and weakness. Her fingertips tingle faintly, warmth sparking along her veins. A quiet knock stirred her from half-sleep. “Come in,” she murmured. Ryder slipped inside, golden eyes dark with concern. “Little wolf… you’re still pale.” His hand brushed her cheek warmly “I’m fine,” she whispered, forcing a smile. “Just tired" But Ryder didn’t look convinced. He sat beside her, fingers tracing gentle circles against her wrist where her pulse fluttered fast and uncertain. “There’s something strange… your scent. There were herbs on your robe this morning. Not the kind our healers use.” Crystal frowned softly. “Aria brought me tea yesterday. Maybe it was that...” His gaze sharpened. “You said nothing.” “I thought it was normal…” Her voice faltered as her wolf stirr