The following morning, I woke up early. Erica lay beside me, sleeping peacefully like an angel, providing the perfect opportunity to watch her. The early morning sun bathed her tranquil face in a gentle glow. These were the moments I treasured most, those simple, intimate times that reminded me how deeply I loved her. I drew her closer, embraced by the warmth of her body against mine. She instinctively nestled deeper into my chest, savoring the heat I provided. It was as if my arms were crafted just for her, she fit perfectly within them. All I desire now is to have meaningful time with Erica, cherishing this quiet moment with her and creating memories that might sustain us if things become difficult. Seeing how serene she looked while sleeping filled me with love and a sense of protectiveness. I softly brushed a strand of hair from her face, amazed by how beautiful she was in such an unguarded state. After that brief period of sentimen
Still Johnston’s POV At least he had the decency to avert his gaze while I looked at him. "Her true mate was at the party last night, but he doesn't belong to your pack, Alpha Rudi," I hissed. My words carried a warning as my patience began to wear thin. Luna Sarai's laughter erupted, instantly dissolving the tension in the room. "That's deep, sweetheart. You really took it too far," she said with a hiccup, amusement twinkling in her eyes, shattering the Alpha's confidence. He glanced around uneasily, clearly out of his depth. He struggled for words in an attempt to recover from the predicament. “I, um, I didn’t mean to offend, Johnston. I’m just concerned about the well-being of my pack and our alliances." "Alpha, it’s best you keep your concerns in check. Erica's journey is her own, and your intrusive questions are out of place. If there was anything you needed to know, you'd have found
We gave Xena a ride to the main road and bid her farewell. Xander awaited her arrival in his brand-new Bentley, the car’s sleek lines gleaming under the morning sun. Watching them reunite was such a pleasant sight, their passionate greeting made it clear that this long-distance relationship wasn’t easy for them. Their reunion overflowed with tender touches and whispered words, every gesture exuding their deep affection for one another. Earlier we informed the Alpha about Xena's unexpected departure, explaining that she had to urgently return to her coven for work that could not be postponed but would be back in two days. The Alpha listened attentively and nodded understandingly. Given Luna Sarai’s unforeseen request for us to extend our stay by a few more days, this statement was acceptable to the couple. I had hoped to stealthily sneak Xena out and back without anyone noticing, but Erica was determined to inform the Alpha. She's such a
Still Johnston’s POVAfter our conversation on the beach with Alpha Rudi, which didn't provide any clarity, Erica and I decided to set aside all concerns until Xena returned. During this time, we enjoyed ourselves immensely at the Crimson Moon. It felt as though we were the only ones living in this pack, entirely captivated by one another. We held hands and explored every corner together, stealing hugs and kisses whenever it pleased us. Each moment brimmed with laughter and affection, causing the days to drift by in a joyful blur. At present, I was seated on the private balcony of the room Erica shared with Xena while she took her evening nap. I was enjoying the soft glow of the setting sun enveloping everything in a warm, golden light. A few pack members were busy with cleaning tasks beneath the balcony, and I happened to overhear a conversation between two of them. As I sat on the balcony while Erica napped, I overheard a conversation
“There is a clearing on the border of Crimson Moon and neutral land. Let's take our conversation there,” suggested Master Brent.‘Johnston, there is a clearing at the Crimson Moon border. Just try to get everyone there. Three more hours,’ I texted Johnston.Master Brent went on to visit some specific ancient places in our area, each location steeped in history and mystery. It was as if he was asking for permission from the elders to call for the graves. The rituals he performed were intricate, involving ancient symbols and incantations that reverberated through the air.I know this is going to be drastic. The great thing is that I will learn a lot from this experience, it is the first time that I am going to witness this. I'm excited but still scared of what might come out of this. The unknown elements of magic and the supernatural always carried a sense of danger and awe.Before we leave for Crimson Moon, we must also go to the nearby lake to sink in a sacrifice.The
Another party’s POVThe water rippled and then there was a soft pop.The egg had burst!This was a confirmation of an evil spirit involved in the case Xena brought before me. With this, a sense of urgency and dread was added to this mission. I exchanged a worried glance with the witch, who nodded grimly.I’m Master Brent. Xena considers me a warlock, but in fact, I am one of the remaining Endarkened Shadow hunters. For centuries, I have been looking for a way to use the divine Seraph Knife, a special weapon to make supernatural beings like me more powerful. With this weapon, I could become the master of the universe and make both demons and humans bow to me.To activate the powers of the Seraph Knife, I must mate with an angel or a supernatural being of high rank. At the peak of our mating, I have to call out the name of an angel loudly and stab the woman in the heart. I found out a long time ago that the most obvious angel was the werewolf Moon Goddess, so I was looki
"My mate! Where is she? You bastard!" the Alpha roared, half-shifted into his huge black wolf.His fur bristled with rage, and his eyes glowed with a feral intensity. He was ready to behead me but remembered at the last moment that he needed me to get his mate back. His growl reverberated through the air, I was sure it could be heard miles from here."Erica!!" Johnston bellowed now with desperation and fury.He, too, was almost shifted, his claws out and his sharp fangs exposed. His eyes were pitch dark, filled with a savage determination. These powerful werewolves were deeply infatuated with their mates and were not to be underestimated. They were willing to go to great lengths to get their women back. I have to tread carefully now."Relax," I signed with my hands, trying to project calmly. "Everything will be fine. I know how to get them back. This is just temporary.""What do you mean by that?! Why did she suddenly disappear? Where is she?" the Alpha demanded, his voice dripping wi
Johnston followed suit, his movements precise and controlled. "Erica," he murmured gently. As he applied the liquid to his face, his eyes briefly closed as though searching for an inner connection. I grabbed the last bottle and mirrored their actions.I pretended to perform a ritual by closing my eyes for an extra moment and taking a deep breath, as though I were absorbing power from the bottle. The air around us seemed charged with unusual energy, and I could feel their eyes on me, observing my every action with suspicion.All three of them gazed at me intently until I opened my eyes and smiled, exuding a sense of calmness and reassurance."This will enable you to maintain your connection with them," I assured, my voice steady. "Please, be assured they are safe. They'll be back with you before you know it."The Alpha and Johnston shared a wary glance, but the ritual appeared to have pacified them for now. The delicate spark of trust I had kindled was fragile, and I understood that c
Erica's Point of View stillAs we approached the Harvest Moon packhouse, the decorations became increasingly beautiful.This pack went out of their way to make us feel welcome. However, I'm beginning to sense that something is on the horizon. I’m not sure if it’s the same feeling Xena experienced, but my werewolf instincts are heightened, gearing up for a significant change.This delightful reception is intended not for the Royals, but for us.With this kind of escort, we are certainly treated like special guests. As I parked in front of the porch, three handsome men approached us. From their aura, I sensed that one was the Beta and with him the Head Warrior, while the other two were clearly Lycans. However, they exuded no menacing vibe; rather, they seemed very welcoming."Alpha female Erica, welcome to Harvest Moon," the tall blonde announced with a wide smile. "We're thrilled to have you here and grateful that you've chosen our pack for your unforgettable visit."An unforgettable v
Erica's Point of ViewJust one more turn and we'll reach the gates of Harvest Moon.I can't say I'm thrilled to be here, but there's a good chance my mate is within these borders, and I'll finally meet him. However, that prospect isn't necessarily appealing to me. He likely won't be Johnston, which means I could face a dilemma.Maybe I'm overthinking this, though; after all, the mate bond is meant to nurture love and affection for both of us. There's also a great possibility that by tomorrow at this same time, I'll have forgotten about Johnston completely.After an emotional farewell with his mate, Xander left for his pack.I feel a strong urge to conclude this journey, as I genuinely wish for them to be united and overcome the obstacles in Blue Moon. However, since the Moon Goddess has decreed that Xena must remain with me until the end, she will comply regardless of what it takes or how long it lasts.I'm feeling a bit down since Johnston left without saying anything. I have no idea
"Marco, what was that all about?" Royal Gamma Jannel demanded through clenched teeth. "I was so close to earning his trust, and then you had to come and show off by announcing in front of everyone that you have a mate?"Marco, overwhelmed with frustration, grappled to articulate his thoughts.He understood that his mate was strong-willed and fiercely independent, qualities he greatly admired. Yet, those very traits made it difficult to win her over and establish effective communication between them. In truth, this was a particularly bad time to assert his claim on her. He had misread the situation entirely and made a colossal mistake.Gamma Jannel’s eyes were ablaze with fury, and he understood that she would hold this against him. It felt like everything was falling apart at once, even their conversation in the helicopter had ended badly."Jannel," he started, trying to connect with her more compassionate side. "I hope you can forgive me, but I need you to see things from my perspect
Before I had a chance to respond, Royal Gamma Jannel stood up and turned to face the Alpha. The tension between them was palpable, like an electric charge crackling in the air.“Calm down, Alpha," she asserted confidently. "This is Johnston, the future Gamma of Moon Light. I'm certain you've come across his name lately."The Alpha's eyes narrowed as he sized me up, his posture still tense."Why are you here?" he demanded, his tone sharp and accusatory. "And why are you sitting so close to my mate? You must have sensed that she is no longer available—you’re a high-ranking wolf!""I just finished speaking with the Royal Gamma," I replied, attempting to keep my voice calm. "Our conversation has ended. Apologies for any inconvenience, but there's something else I need to attend to.""Wait!" he exclaimed suddenly, an urgent tone in his voice. "Johnston? Are you Johnston Wentworth from Harvest Moon?"He moved closer, but his previous aggression had completely vanished. His demeanor had chan
Still Johnstons Point of ViewIt was time to help the Princess face reality.She is desperate and has focused her attention on me, simply because I was nearby.“I already have a mate. She’s waiting for me in Harvest Moon and once I’m finished here, I'll return to her. I'm really looking forward to it," I mentioned as I noticed the flicker of disappointment in her eyes."Harvest Moon? My parents are there right now. I left just a few hours ago after being rejected by the future Alpha."This was an astonishing disclosure.A missing Prince accompanied by twins, a deceased aunt, and a Beta mate, it all felt eerily similar to the beginning of Erica and me in Moon Light. This aunt was an important clue but sadly had passed away. Meanwhile, the King and Queen were now in Harvest Moon, the exact destination where Erica was headed. Could it really be just a coincidence? My mind buzzed with attempts to fit together these fragmented pieces of an intricate puzzle, but before that,
This is a Once-in-a-Lifetime Chance!I can now access firsthand information about the Royal family.I understand the importance of being subtle to avoid raising any suspicions with the Princess, as I don't want her to become guarded. Currently, she is in a vulnerable emotional state, which is precisely what was needed for her to feel comfortable sharing. Her focus on personal issues has made her less vigilant at this time."Yes, actually," I answered with a casual tone. "The Royal family fascinates me greatly. There's an abundance of rumors about what goes on in the Palace, and it piques my curiosity. I used to think such intrigues were exclusive to suspense novels."She abruptly pivoted and walked back toward me.Initially, she approached with caution, her eyes narrowed. Her upbringing likely emphasized the importance of safeguarding family information and honed her combat skills. Similarly, Erica shares these traits but has channeled them into a love for martial arts that propelled
Tax and I made our way cautiously toward the scent, making sure to announce our presence with a soft howl.As we got closer, the young female Lycan turned to face us, her eyes wide with surprise. She was a wolf with a silver coat that glistened in the dappled sunlight filtering through the trees. This was the first time I had seen a she-wolf with these features. We both shifted, and then I saw a woman about eighteen years old, blonde with an hourglass waist, almost stunning in appearance."Hello," I greeted her softly."Hi," she responded reservedly. "Who are you? This land belongs to my parents.""My name is Johnston, and my wolf is Tax," I explained. "We just arrived in the Kingdom yesterday and are simply out for a run to relax. We did not mean to disturb anyone, please believe me."The young Lycan relaxed slightly but still appeared wary. "I'm Princess Coralie," she said softly."Why were you crying? Are you hurt, Princess?" I asked with concern.She turned her head to hide the tr
Still Johnston’s Point of ViewA constant buzzing noise pulled me out of a deep, dreamless sleep.It's been weeks since I last felt this refreshed. When I opened my eyes, I realized I'd slept through most of the day. Clearly, I was more exhausted than I had thought. The cozy bed definitely helped me sleep well, it's almost as soft and comfortable as the one at my parents' home.As I open my eyes, I see that the balcony's sliding door is already ajar and its curtain pulled aside. The gentle morning sun streams into my room, prompting me to blink a few times and raise a hand to shield my eyes as they adjust.For a brief moment, I'm uncertain of where I am until it dawns on me. An affable warrior named Iwan generously provided me with this apartment in the Palace, a lavish space equipped with every conceivable comfort.I slowly slid out of bed and make my way to the balcony, taking in the fresh morning air. The forest is close to the Palace, probably private property. With Iwan mentioni
Johnston's Point of ViewIt took me over three days in wolf form to reach the gigantic gates of the Kingdom. I had read about them and heard stories about the ironwork made of werewolf figures, but I could never have imagined the impression they would make on me. The sheer size and intricate details of the gates were awe-inspiring, leaving me momentarily breathless as I stood before them.When I registered with the Royal guards, they surprisingly let me pass without too many questions after I filled out the mandatory registration forms. Even when I mentioned that I had no place to stay yet, they handed me a list of lodgings not far from the Palace. That was exactly what I needed since my investigation would begin with the Royals.The information I have about Erica's and my background suggests that our biological families are here, members of the Royal family. We are both Lycans, although it is not evident in our wolves, apart from a few notable features. Lycans are much larger than Era