5

The first light of dawn painted the peaks in soft rose and gold as the Black Blood Pack stirred awake. Smoke curled from chimneys, the scent of pine and fresh earth mingling with the crisp mountain air.

Riven stepped outside the alpha’s quarters, the warmth of the rising sun kissing his skin. His robe—a deep crimson trimmed with silver threads—flowed behind him as he moved with quiet grace through the camp. Eyes turned respectfully toward him. He was no longer the outsider from the Moonmist; here, he was Luna, second only to Kaelen, guardian of the pack’s spirit and balance.

“Luna,” called a voice from the training grounds.

Riven smiled softly and approached.

It was Jarek, a grizzled warrior whose face bore the scars of many battles. “The hunters return with fresh game. The feast preparations will start soon.”

Riven nodded. “Good. I will join them shortly.”

Kaelen emerged from the shadows nearby, tall and commanding even in the soft morning light. His dark eyes found Riven’s instantly.

“Come,” Kaelen said quietly, slipping his hand into Riven’s. “The council meets soon.”

Together, they walked toward the stone pavilion where the pack elders and leaders gathered. As Luna, Riven’s voice carried weight here. His thoughts intertwined with Kaelen’s, their bond evident in the subtle touches and glances they shared.

Inside the pavilion, the air hummed with urgency. Maps were spread across the wooden table, marked with encroaching threats and border patrol routes. Riven’s insight—calm, measured, wise—guided many decisions.

After the meeting, Riven made his way to the communal hearth, where pack members prepared food and shared stories. Children ran past, their laughter bright and unburdened. The pack was alive, thriving.

A young mate approached, bowing slightly. “Luna, the northern scouts have returned safely.”

Riven placed a gentle hand on the youth’s shoulder. “Well done. Let them rest.”

As midday approached, Kaelen found Riven again by the river, where the water rushed cool and clear over smooth stones.

“You’ve settled well,” Kaelen murmured, watching Riven dip his fingers into the stream.

Riven smiled. “The pack has accepted me, as I have accepted them.”

Kaelen’s lips curved into a rare smile. “You are more than my mate. You are the heart of Black Blood.”

Riven leaned into the alpha’s embrace, feeling the steady beat of Kaelen’s heart beneath his palm.

The sun dipped low, casting long shadows as evening descended. Around the fire, the pack gathered—warriors, mates, elders—all looking to Luna and Alpha as their guides.

Riven raised his voice, clear and strong. “Tonight, we celebrate life, strength, and unity. Together, we are unbreakable.”

The pack howled in approval, a chorus that rolled through the mountains.

And beneath the stars, Riven stood beside Kaelen—not just as mate, but as Luna, protector, and soul of the Black Blood Pack.

I'm lazy to write this 🥲

So I'm not going to continue this anytime soon

***Download NovelToon to enjoy a better reading experience!***