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Author's Note & Character Descriptions
Huling Na-update:
2024-12-17 00:27:10Welcome, dear reader, to By Shadowlight Lake, a story of loss, self-discovery, and the complex paths that lead us to understanding ourselves and our true purpose.
When I began writing this novel, I wanted to explore the idea of how love can both heal and break us, and how the choices we make shape the people we become. Astraia and Carson’s journey is one of heartache and resilience, a reminder that even in the darkest moments, we have the power to rise. Their bond is a symbol of what we all seek—connection, trust, and the courage to face our fears head-on.
Through the pages, you’ll meet characters who, like us, are striving to find their place in a world that can often seem unforgiving. You’ll walk with Astraia as she navigates the consequences of rejection, finding strength she never knew she had. And you’ll see Carson, a brooding soul whose own trauma makes him question everything he believes in.
This story is one of healing, of facing demons, both internal and external, and ultimately learning that you don’t have to walk through the storm alone. The journey is never easy, but it’s always worth it.
I hope you find, within these pages, a piece of yourself. Whether it’s Astraia’s resilience or Carson’s quiet strength, may you feel empowered to embrace the challenges that come your way and remember that you are never truly alone.
Thank you for choosing this book. I’m so grateful to have you join me on this journey.
With love,
Odessa Character DescriptionAstraia - Soon-to-be Beta of Rivermoon Pack: With a bubbly and kind-hearted nature, Astraia has always been the light in the lives of those around her. But when Grant rejects her, the person she thought she was meant to be with, she’s forced to confront the pain she never saw coming. Strong and determined, Astraia doesn’t let the scars of her rejection hold her back. Moving far from the Rivermoon Pack, she pursues her dream of studying at Stellar University. Though she carries the weight of her past, Astraia’s resilience and growth make her a character who refuses to be defined by the wounds she’s suffered. Her journey is one of reclaiming her independence, learning to trust herself again, and finding strength in the face of heartbreak.Carson - Alpha of High Crest Pack:
Carson is the epitome of a brooding leader. The Alpha of High Crest Pack, he is burdened by the expectations of his position, the weight of being second in command to the royal werewolves. But beneath his stoic exterior lies a man shattered by his past. Rejected by his mate years ago, Carson has locked away his heart, unwilling to allow anyone else to get close. His stoic demeanor masks a depth of emotion that he struggles to keep hidden. But when Astraia enters his life, her warmth and strength challenge everything he’s believed about love and vulnerability. Torn between his duty and the possibility of healing, Carson must confront the shadows of his past if he is ever to embrace the future.DISCLAIMER
This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are either products of the author’s imagination or used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental.
This story contains common elements found in werewolf and paranormal romance literature, including but not limited to: pack dynamics, Alpha/Beta relationships, mate bonds, pack hierarchies, and supernatural abilities. These are widely-used tropes within the genre and are not unique to any single work.
While this story incorporates these familiar elements, the plot, characters, and specific story elements are original creations. The world-building, character relationships, and narrative are the author’s original work.
Content Warning:
This story contains references to:
• Past trauma
• Family loss
• Pack politics
• Mild violence
• Emotional themes
• Supernatural elements
• Mature Content
• Romance
• Some bullying themes
Copyright Notice:
All rights reserved. © 2024 Odessa R. Beaumont. No part of this work may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the author, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other non-commercial uses permitted by copyright law.
Kaugnay na kabanata
By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 1 - Astraia
The Beta’s birthday celebration was the social event of the season in our pack, a grand affair that filled the packhouse with laughter, music, and the clinking of glasses. The packhouse itself was a masterpiece of rustic elegance, its wooden beams adorned with twinkling fairy lights, and the scent of fresh pine mingled with the rich aroma of roasted meat and spiced cider. Tonight was supposed to be special. I had spent hours perfecting every detail—my hair styled into soft curls, my favorite emerald dress hugging my curves, and just the right amount of makeup to highlight my features. I’d hoped to feel beautiful, confident, and, for once, seen.But deep down, a hollow ache gnawed at me—a hope that tonight might bring a change in my life, even if I couldn’t name what that change should be. Instead, fate would deliver a cruel twist that would forever alter my path.“Astraia,” Tiffany’s voice broke through my thoughts, dripping with false sweetness. I turned to see her standing near th
Huling Na-update : 2024-12-17By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 2 - Astraia
The ride home was a blur. The rhythmic hum of the car’s engine did little to soothe the chaos in my mind. The car felt suffocating as I sat in the back, my parents chatting casually about the party. Their voices, light and unconcerned, seemed miles away, like they were coming from another world, a place where I wasn’t broken, where I wasn’t questioning everything I thought I knew. My father’s steady grip on the wheel, the sound of my mother humming softly in the front seat—it all felt so distant. The only sound in my ears was the agonizing thrum of my heart, the deafening emptiness that Grant’s rejection had left in its wake.“How was the party, sweetie?” My mother’s voice cut through my fog of pain.I opened my mouth to respond but couldn’t find the words. The truth was, I didn’t know how to explain what had happened. How could I tell them about the cruel words Grant had spoken? How could I admit that I’d been rejected in front of an entire pack? How could I explain that my heart was
Huling Na-update : 2024-12-17By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 3 - Astraia
The past few weeks had been an endless blur of sadness and confusion. Every thought, every memory, seemed to be wrapped in Grant's rejection. His cold dismissal, choosing Tiffany, breaking our bond – it all echoed through my mind like a haunting melody I couldn't escape. The ache in my chest wasn't just emotional; it felt like a physical weight crushing my heart."I, Grant Dixon, soon to be Alpha of the Rivermoon Pack, reject you, Astraia, as my mate."The words still rang in my ears, even weeks later. But somewhere deep inside, something began to shift. A quiet determination took root. I wasn't going to let Grant's rejection define me. I wasn't going to let it dictate my future.After countless hours of research and weighing options, I found my answer: Stellar University. A neutral zone where both humans and werewolves coexisted, far enough from Rivermoon Pack for breathing room but close enough to maintain connections. The perfect place to pursue my passion for environmental science
Huling Na-update : 2024-12-22By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 4 - Astraia
The evening sun cast long shadows across the wolfsbane garden as I finally gathered my thoughts and headed back to the apartment. The day's explorations had given me a better sense of my new territory, but it had also stirred up emotions I wasn't quite ready to face.Back in the apartment, I found Freya had left a note on the kitchen counter: "Made extra coffee this morning – it's in the blue thermos. Told you it was life-changing! Class until 6, but Chinese takeout after?"The thoughtfulness of the gesture brought a small smile to my face. I put the thermos in the fridge for tomorrow and turned to my room, ready to truly make it my space.Unpacking the last of my boxes, I carefully arranged my belongings. My environmental science textbooks lined the desk, along with the leather-bound territory mapping journal my father had given me – a traditional gift for Beta training. I hesitated before placing it on the shelf. It represented everything I'd lost, but also everything I'd learned. Kn
Huling Na-update : 2024-12-22By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 5 - Astraia
AstraiaThe morning sun cast long shadows across Stellar University's Main Quad as I clutched my orientation packet, trying to decipher the campus map. My stormy grey eyes scanned the imposing buildings, each one looking frustratingly similar to the last. Despite my Beta training in territory mapping, the university layout seemed determined to confuse me.The ashy rose-brown strands of my hair caught the early light, the distinctive Briarthorn silver shift more pronounced in my nervousness. I'd spent extra time this morning trying to look perfectly put together – a habit from my Beta-in-waiting days that was hard to break.First day. You can do this,I reminded myself, adjusting my bag. The weight of my new textbooks felt reassuring – something concrete to focus on besides the lingering echo of bond pain.My phone buzzed with several messages:Lila: You've got this, little cousin! Text
Huling Na-update : 2025-02-13By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 6 - Astraia
Professor Kane's Environmental Science classroom was already half-full when we arrived. Odette, who had somehow managed to escape both her brother and the Council meeting, guided us to seats near the middle – "Not too eager in the front, not too hidden in the back," she explained with a wink.The classroom design was clearly made with both wolves and humans in mind. The windows were positioned to allow natural light without creating harsh glares that might irritate sensitive wolf eyes, and the ventilation system kept the air fresh despite the mix of pack scents."Best spot for both acoustics and quick exits," she whispered as we settled in. "Plus, perfect view of—" She stopped abruptly, violet eyes widening as she looked toward the door.The wave of Alpha power hit me before I turned to look. Carson Thorne stood in the doorway, his dark hair slightly dishevelled, golden eyes scanning the room with detached authority. The intensity of his presence
Huling Na-update : 2025-02-14By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 7 - Astraia
The walk to the administration building gave me a better view of campus than my earlier confused wandering. Odette, despite her seemingly casual chatter, was actually giving me useful information about pack-friendly routes and neutral zones."The path behind the science building is quieter," she explained, steering me along a tree-lined walkway. "Lots of wolves use it during high-stress times – the trees help muffle all the campus scents."My wolf appreciated the consideration, especially as we approached the administration building where pack scents were stronger. Various wolves coming and going, marking territory edges even in this neutral zone."Nicolas usually handles all the pack registration stuff," Odette continued, then checked her phone with a suspiciously innocent expression.Royal Pain (Brother): Where are you taking her?Odette: Administrative duties. Being responsible Royal Pain (Brother): On a Tuesday at 2pm? When Carson always checks university paperwork? ODETTE NOOdet
Huling Na-update : 2025-02-15By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 8 - Astraia
The wolfsbane garden was exactly where Odette had promised, tucked behind the science building. The diluted strain created a gentle haze that helped calm my still-unsettled wolf after the intensity of the administration office."Okay, spill everything," Odette demanded, settling onto one of the stone benches. "And don't you dare say 'it was nothing' because I literally watched you and Carson scent each other.""We did not—Aren't we suppose to do our study session— " I started to protest, but she cut me off with a knowing look."Pshh, forget about that, honey, I have eyes. And a nose. And twenty-one years of experience reading Carson's broody Alpha signals. He never handles university paperwork personally."I sank onto the bench beside her, letting the wolfsbane's calming effect soothe my racing thoughts. "It was just territory registration.""Right," Odette drawled. "Because all territory registrations involve that much eye contact. Or
Huling Na-update : 2025-02-16
Pinakabagong kabanata
By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 50 - Astraia
The training field behind the Rivermoon pack house glowed silver in the moonlight, the open grass bordered by ancient oak trees whose shadows stretched long across the ground. I circled a group of five young wolves, all between sixteen and eighteen years old, watching their stances with a critical eye."Remember that your opponent's weight can become their weakness," I instructed, motioning for a sandy-haired boy to step forward. "Mason, try to take me down."The young wolf—taller than me by several inches but still gangly with adolescence, hesitated, clearly uncomfortable with the idea of attacking the former Beta-in-waiting."I won't hurt you," I assured him with a smile. "Much."That earned a laugh from the other trainees and seemed to ease Mason's nerves. He lunged forward, attempting to use his height advantage to grapple me to the ground. In one fluid motion, I sidestepped, caught his extended arm, and used his forward momentum to flip him ont
By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 49 - Astraia
I stood at the window of my guest room, watching darkness settle over Rivermoon territory. The familiar silhouettes of pine trees against the twilight sky brought back memories I'd tried to suppress, training sessions that ran late into the evening, strategy meetings with Dad, moonlit runs with the younger wolves under my supervision.A life I'd once believed would be mine forever.With a sigh, I turned away from the window. The guest suite was luxurious, spacious sitting area with plush furniture, a gleaming bathroom with a rainfall shower, and a bedroom with an oversized four-poster bed. Everything in rich earthtones that echoed Rivermoon's forest surroundings.After our confrontation with Grant, I'd spent the afternoon helping Mom organize Dad's medication schedule and meal plan. He was healing well but remained frustrated by his physical limitations. Twice, Mom had caught him trying to review security reports when he was supposed to be resting."Like
By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 48 - Astraia
He appeared at the end of the hallway, his tall figure backlit by the window behind him. Beside him stood Tiffany, her blonde hair pulled back in a severe ponytail, her posture rigid and defensive.For a moment, no one moved. The air in the hallway seemed to thicken with unspoken tension.I felt Odette's arm tighten around mine in silent support.Grant stepped forward first, his expression carefully neutral. "Astraia. Princess Odette." He inclined his head in what could barely pass for respect. "We heard you'd arrived.""Grant," I acknowledged, keeping my voice steady. "Tiffany."Tiffany didn't respond, her eyes fixed on some point over my head."I'm sorry to hear about your father," Grant continued. "Though I'm surprised you felt the need to bring Royal guards into our territory for a family visit." His emphasis on "our" was subtle but unmistakable, a reminder that of where I belonged."The guards are for my protection," Odette inter
By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 47 - Astraia
The familiar scent of sage and cedar filled my senses as I stepped into the Rivermoon pack house. Despite being gone for months, my wolf instantly recognized the place where pack meetings and official functions were held. It felt strange to be here rather than at my family's private home in the territory.Mom guided us through the main entrance, past the curious glances of pack members who paused to watch our unexpected procession. The Royal guards positioned themselves strategically, two by the main entrance, two following behind Odette and me, and two moving ahead to scout the interior. Their presence alone made a statement that we weren't ordinary visitors."Your father is upstairs in the guest quarters," Mom explained, leading us toward the grand staircase in the central hall. "Alpha Dixon insisted he stay here for security and medical supervision. He refused to remain in the hospital wing, of course, once he was stable.""Stubborn as always," I muttered, fe
By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 46 - Astraia
I stared out the window of the black SUV as the familiar landscape of my childhood began to materialize. The rolling hills gave way to denser forest, the scents of my former territory starting to filter through the car's air system. My wolf stirred restlessly inside me, recognizing home even as my human side remained conflicted."You've been quiet for the last hour," Odette observed, her violet eyes briefly flicking from the road to me. "I can practically hear your thoughts spinning."I sighed, absently twisting a strand of my hair. "Sorry. I just never thought I'd be coming back here. Not like this.""Your father needs you," Odette said gently. "That trumps everything else."The royal guards in the vehicle ahead of us maintained a steady pace, their black SUV identical to the one Odette and I rode in. Another followed behind, forming a protective convoy that the Royal Pack had insisted upon. Rogue attacks had increased in frequency and boldness, and no o
By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 45 - Astraia
Odette's idea of an "art studio" turned out to be a sunlit room with twenty-foot ceilings, wall-to-wall windows overlooking the royal gardens, and enough supplies to stock a small art school. Easels stood ready with blank canvases, and a table against one wall held bottles of wine next to an array of fruits and cheeses."Royal lockdown has its perks," she admitted, seeing my expression. "What? I stress-prepared."I laughed, feeling some of the morning's tension ease. "I'm not complaining."We settled at adjacent easels, Odette pouring generous glasses of wine despite the early hour. "So," she said casually, too casually, as she arranged her paints, "you and Carson looked very very cozy in bed yesterday morning.""We're not doing this again," I groaned, focusing intently on squeezing paint onto my palette."What? I'm just making conversation." Her innocent tone didn't match the devious glint in her eyes. "Though I did hear from a very reliable sourc
By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 44 - Astraia
The morning after Carson's late-night call, I woke to sunlight streaming through the palace windows and the persistent chime of multiple incoming messages on my phone. Groggily, I reached for it, expecting to see a text from Carson. Instead, my screen was filled with notifications from the university's emergency alert system."All students, please be advised that Stellar University will transition to remote learning effective immediately due to ongoing security concerns. All buildings will remain closed until further notice. Faculty will contact students with course-specific instructions within 24 hours. Do not attempt to access campus or neutral territory without explicit security clearance. Updates will follow as the situation develops."I sat up, suddenly wide awake. While we'd all suspected classes might be canceled for a few days, a complete shutdown and transition to remote learning suggested the rogue threat was more serious than we'd been told.
By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 43 - Astraia
I watched from the palace balcony as Carson and Hunter departed with the High Crest security team, their figures growing smaller until they disappeared into the treeline. Even after they were gone, I remained there, the ghost of Carson's touch still lingering on my skin, his promises echoing in my mind."So," Odette's voice came from behind me, making me jump. "Are you going to tell us what happened, or do we need to torture it out of you?"I turned to find not just Odette, but Lila and Freya as well, all three wearing identical expressions of eager curiosity."I have no idea what you're talking about," I said primly, though the heat in my cheeks betrayed me."Please," Lila scoffed, linking her arm through mine. "Carson practically ordered everyone out of the breakfast room so he could whisk you away for a private conversation. Then he returns looking like he's won the moonlight run, and you're standing here staring after him like a lovesick pup."
By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 42 - Astraia
After breakfast, Carson led me through a series of elegant corridors until we reached a secluded balcony overlooking the royal gardens. Away from prying eyes and enhanced wolf hearing, it offered the privacy we desperately needed for this conversation.He moved to the stone railing, his broad shoulders silhouetted against the late morning light, and for a moment, I simply watched him, the powerful Alpha who had held me with such gentleness hours earlier. The contradiction of strength and tenderness that defined him."You don't have to stand so far away," he said without turning, a smile in his voice. "I don't bite. Unless asked nicely."Heat rushed to my cheeks at the implication, but I moved to join him at the railing, close enough that our arms nearly touched. The air between us felt charged with unspoken words and lingering touches."The gardens are beautiful," I offered lamely, grasping for a neutral starting point."Astraia." The way he said m
