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Chapter 9 - Astraia
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2025-02-17 11:00:58The wolfsbane cider, as it turned out, was significantly stronger than any of us had anticipated. Three bottles later, our pizza was long gone, and the emergency pack meeting texts had somehow become less threatening and more amusing. Even my wolf, usually on edge at any mention of Grant, was contentedly buzzed, purring at the lingering traces of Carson's scent that still clung to the territory paperwork. Freya had wrapped fairy lights around our necks like glowing scarves, declaring us "the most fashionable pack girls on campus."
The night was warm, the moon was bright, and everything felt wonderfully possible.
"We need snacks!" Odette announced, somehow making it sound like a royal decree. "To the minimart!"
"Od, it's almost midnight," I tried to reason, though the wolfsbane cider made everything feel wonderfully fuzzy.
"Exactly! Prime snacking hour!" Freya agreed, the fairy lights in her hair twinkling as she twirled. "Plus, we're all wearing green. We
Bab terkait
By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 10 - Astraia
The wolfsbane cider's pleasant haze evaporated instantly at that voice. Even Odette stopped humming, her violet eyes suddenly sharp despite her intoxication. Through the glow of our ridiculous fairy lights, I watched Carson's expression darken, his Alpha power surging protectively around our group.Grant stepped out of the shadows, his cold blue eyes taking in the scene with calculated amusement. He looked exactly as I remembered – classically handsome, perfectly polished, and completely cold."Isn't it a bit early for tomorrow's meeting?" he asked, his voice carrying that familiar edge of mockery. "Though I suppose some of us are more... prepared than others." His gaze swept over our green outfits and fairy lights with obvious disdain.Carson moved slightly, positioning himself between our group and Grant. The air crackled with tension as two Alpha energies collided."I wasn't aware Rivermoon Pack had any business in this territory," Carson's voice
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-02-18By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 11 - Astraia
My wolf healing had taken care of most of the wolfsbane cider's effects, but memories of last night remained crystal clear – fairy lights, two angry Alphas, and the lingering scent of pine and storm. Not exactly how I'd planned to start my first week at Stellar University."You look surprisingly alive," Freya commented as I came out from my room, already dressed for morning classes. She was curled up on our couch, sketching what looked suspiciously like last night's Alpha confrontation. "Though you might want to hide those fairy light marks around your neck."I groaned, adjusting my collar. "Please tell me you didn't actually draw that.""Of course not," she grinned. "I'm saving the dramatic recreation for my final art project. 'Two Alphas, One Minimart', it's going to be a masterpiece," she giggled."You're terrible," I muttered, but couldn't help smiling. The normalcy of morning banter with Freya helped ease some of the tension from last night.Morning classes passed in a blur of lec
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-02-21By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 12 - Astraia
The meeting venue was already buzzing with activity when we arrived, wolves from various packs filing into the large hall. Unlike regular pack gatherings, this one seemed focused on younger wolves – mostly university students and recent graduates."Did Alex tell you what this emergency meeting is actually about?" I asked Odette as we made our way inside."Not everything, but..." she lowered her voice, "apparently there's been a pattern. Rogues targeting our age group, maybe trying to infiltrate pack territories through university connections. That's why it's just university wolves here, not the whole neutral territory meeting."My wolf reacted at the mention of rogues, the scar on my neck suddenly feeling more noticeable. Odette must have sensed my tension because she squeezed my arm gently."Hey, you okay? You went pale for a second—""Miss Briarthorn." Carson's deep voice cut through the crowd behind us. "A word before the meeting sta
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-02-22By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 13 - Astraia
The private meeting room was down the hall, away from the dispersing crowd. My father stood as we entered, and despite the formal setting, I couldn't help but step into his embrace. His familiar scent – vanilla and old books – helped settle my wolf's lingering anxiety."Hey, little wolf," he murmured quietly before we both straightened, returning to proper Beta composure. His stormy grey eyes carried that particular tone that meant he was both concerned and calculating. Years of Beta training let me read the subtle signals: stand straight, project calm, let the politics play out.Grant was already there, his perfect composure slightly strained at the edges. Having both the Crown Prince and High Crest's Alpha present for what he'd probably planned as a pack matter clearly wasn't part of his agenda."Well," Alexei settled into one of the chairs with casual grace that somehow made everyone else look less regal, "shall we discuss the proper protocols for
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-02-23By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 14 - Astraia
Consciousness returned slowly, fragments of sensation filtering through the haze. The sterile scent of the pack medical wing, my father's vanilla and old books scent nearby, hushed but angry voices in the hallway."You could have fucking killed her!" That was Carson's voice, tight with barely controlled fury. "The force of the impact alone—""Not to mention the rejected bond trauma," a female voice spoke with professional concern. "Physical contact with a rejector, especially forced contact, can cause severe—""To think," Alexei's voice cut through the tension, his royal authority somehow more threatening in its quiet disappointment, "that the future Alpha of Rivermoon Pack would display such... primitive behavior. In neutral territory, no less.""Future Alpha or not," my father's voice carried that Beta authority that had commanded respect for generations, "this kind of behavior is unacceptable. Especially from someone who claims to understan
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-02-24By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 15 - Astraia
The medical wing looked different in morning light, less dramatic than the dim lighting of last night's events. Eden had cleared me to leave after one final check, though the knowing look she gave me when mentioning Carson's "overnight patrol duty" made my wolf stir uncomfortably."He stayed all night?" I asked Odette as she helped gather my things. "I thought he left after checking in...""Apparently there was a very important hallway that needed guarding," her violet eyes sparkled with mischief. "All night. Right outside your door."It was probably just because my dad asked," I muttered, ignoring how my wolf perked up at the lingering traces of his scent in the hallway."Mm-hmm," Odette hummed noncommittally. "I'm sure that's exactly why the Alpha of High Crest spent his night guarding a hallway instead of, you know, sending one of his many available pack members.""Od—""Anyway, your father called this morning," she continued, mercifully changing the subject. "He's still dealing wi
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-02-27By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 16 - Astraia
The rest of Thursday passed in a blur of concerned friends, Eden's check-ups, and my parents' hourly calls. Carson had rescheduled the territory management meeting "until further notice," though Odette insisted it had nothing to do with him hovering outside my apartment building all night.Friday morning brought unexpected quiet – classes were cancelled to implement the new territory crossing protocols. Security checkpoints were being set up at all crossing points, and the campus buzzed with wolves registering their travel schedules."Perfect timing for girls' night," Odette declared when she picked me up that evening. Her penthouse, perfectly positioned between Royal Pack territory, High Crest territory and neutral grounds, offered stunning views of both landscapes. The high-security building was a favorite among pack nobility, though everyone knew the top floor was exclusively Royal Pack territory."The view gets even better at sunset," Lila said from the backseat, then glanced at m
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-02-27By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 17 - Astraia
Alpha Dixon's birthday celebration wasn't technically a major pack event, but you wouldn't know it from the guest list. My nerves settled slightly knowing I wouldn't be facing this alone, Odette representing Royal Pack, Lila attending with Crimson Moon, and even High Crest sending representatives. Diplomatic courtesy, according to Odette, though her violet eyes had sparkled in that way that always meant trouble."If you adjust that necklace one more time," Freya threatened from where she was fixing my hair, "I will literally pin your hands to your sides.""I'm not adjusting anything," I lied, dropping my hands from the silver pendant. "I'm just...""Nervous? Overthinking? Planning escape routes?""Just making sure everything's perfect," I muttered. After all, this would be my first time back in Rivermoon territory since..."It is perfect," Lila said from the doorway. "And you're not alone. Now come on, Odette's waiting with the car, and you know ho
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-02-28
Bab terbaru
By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 82 - Astraia
"Carson!" I moved to help him, but he was already turning to face the next threat."Ah fuck, it's fine, I'm fine," he growled, though I could see blood darkening his shirt. "Stay behind me."The remaining infiltrators found themselves outmatched by Carson's fury and the coordinated assault of the royal guards. Within minutes, it was over.Infiltrators lay subdued or unconscious throughout the corridor, being secured by royal guards.Alexei appeared around the corner, looking battle-worn but satisfied. "Command center secure," he reported. "Davis has control of all systems.""Good," Carson said, his voice tight as he checked me over for injuries. "Astraia, are you hurt?""I'm fine," I assured him, my eyes drawn to the dark stain spreading on his shirt. "But you're bleeding."He dismissed it with a wave. "Just a scratch."Hunter was leaning heavily on Odette, still fighting off the effects of the sedative."Nice ti
By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 81 - Astraia
The elevator stopped, doors opening onto a dimly lit corridor I'd never seen before. This had to be the approach to the central command center."Keep moving," Elise ordered, shoving me forward.I needed a plan. I needed to create a distraction. Carson and Alexei were likely already aware of the infiltration. If these infiltrators reached the command center, they could compromise the entire territory security system.I reached for our mate bond, focusing hard on Carson's presence.Carson, infiltrators. Service elevator. Coming to command center. Elise.His response was immediate, a surge of protective fury blazing through our connection.On my way.No! I pushed back. Stay in command. Protect the systems. I've got a plan.Like hell, came his stubborn reply. Not letting you get hurt again. Coming to you.I mentally groaned. Stubborn, overprotective Alpha. But his determi
By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 80 - Astraia
"What the hell was that?" I gasped, instinctively bracing myself against the wall.Hunter was already on high alert, phone to his ear. "Breach," he barked. "East wing, lower level. How many?" His expression darkened. "Understood.""What is it?" Odette demanded, her royal authority surfacing despite her fear."They've breached the palace," Hunter said grimly, pulling out his sidearm. "At least ten hostiles, maybe more. They're heading for the central command center.""Just like Tiffany said they would," I realized.Hunter ushered us forward more quickly. "We need to get you both to the panic room. Now.""Wait," I stopped. "The darts. If they're mind-controlled, we can use the blocker."He hesitated, then nodded, handing me two of the darts. "Emergency use only. These are prototypes, remember?"I tucked them carefully into my pocket. "Let's hope we don't need them."We hurried through the corridors toward the secure wing,
By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 79 - Astraia
Three hours isn't much time to create a neurological blocking agent, but when the alternative is mass mind control, you make it work.Dr. Winters arrived within twenty minutes of Odette's call, a tall, stern-faced woman with silver-streaked black hair and the most impressive collection of degrees I'd ever seen. She took one look at me and raised an eyebrow."You're supposed to be resting," she said bluntly."And we're supposed to be having a peaceful weekend, but circumstances change," I replied, sliding the chemical analysis across the counter to her. "These are the compounds we need to block."She studied the readout, her expression growing more serious. "This is... unusually sophisticated.""I know. That's why I need your help."She glanced up sharply. "You realize what we're attempting is dangerous. Untested neurological blockers could cause seizures, permanent brain damage, even death.""And the alternative is letting mind-contro
By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 78 - Astraia
The Royal Palace lab was a state-of-the-art facility tucked away in the east wing. I'd been spending most of my time there since Carson sent back the samples from the northern compound, analyzing the strange compounds they'd found."Do we have any updates on the attacks?" I asked as we walked, trying not to show how much the simple act of moving hurt.Odette shook her head. "Nothing concrete. Alexei's put all allied packs on high alert. Security's been doubled at all border checkpoints, and they've evacuated the civilian areas closest to the borders.""And the central command center? The one Tiffany mentioned?""Full lockdown. Only pack leaders and their seconds have access now."We reached the lab, and I sighed in relief at the sight of my workstation, everything exactly as I'd left it the day before. My microscope, centrifuge, and analysis equipment were still set up, along with the samples Carson had sent."So what exactly are you looking
By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 77 - Astraia
Stupid ribs. Stupid healing. Stupid everything.I woke up feeling better than I had any right to after getting thrown around by a mind-controlled Alpha, but the dull ache in my side reminded me that werewolf healing had its limits. Three days of rest and medical treatment had done wonders, but some injuries just took time.Carson was already awake, I could tell from his breathing. He was lying carefully beside me, barely touching me except for his hand lightly resting on mine."Morning," I mumbled, rolling toward him despite the twinge in my side."Careful," he cautioned immediately, shifting back slightly. "Your ribs—""Are mostly healed," I finished for him, scooting closer to press against his warm chest. "Stop treating me like I'm made of glass."He frowned down at me, eyes serious. "The healer said at least five days before—""Before strenuous activity," I interrupted. "Cuddling isn't strenuous, Carson.""It is
By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 76 - Carson
We reached the medical wing, where the head healer immediately took charge, ordering Astraia onto an examination table."Step aside, Alpha," the healer instructed firmly.I hesitated, reluctant to break contact with Astraia."But I—""Carson," Astraia said softly, "it's okay. I'm not going anywhere."With great reluctance, I moved back, giving the healer space to work.Every bruise revealed as they examined her sent fresh waves of anger through me. Through our bond, I could feel little spikes of pain when the healer pressed certain areas, making my jaw clench tight."Three cracked ribs," the healer announced, gently prodding Astraia's side. "Significant bruising, but thankfully nothing life-threatening. She needs rest and minimal movement for at least twenty-four hours."The moment the examination was complete, I moved back to Astraia's side. Without asking, I carefully lifted her into my arms, cradling her against my che
By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 75 - Carson
As Astraia led us toward the door, I could feel her calm determination through our bond, along with a sharp undercurrent of pain she was trying to hide. Once we were in the hallway, I turned to them both."She slipped up about the command center. That confirms they have someone inside the Royal Palace security.""But what if she's not?" Astraia asked. "What if there really are coordinated attacks planned?""Then we'll be ready," Alexei said grimly. "But first, let's see what Grant has to say. If he's coherent enough to talk."I nodded, glancing at Astraia. Her face was pale, the pain she'd been hiding starting to show. "You should rest," I said softly."Not yet," she insisted. "I need to see Grant. I need to understand what they did to him."I wanted to argue, to insist she take care of herself, but the determination in her eyes stopped me. "Fine. But after that, medical. No arguments."She nodded, swaying slightly as we walked toward
By Shadowlight Lake Chapter 74 - Carson
I nodded, curious what approach she'd take. I shifted back slightly, giving her the lead."Tiffany," Astraia said, her voice softer but still firm. "We were packmates once. Not friends, obviously, but we lived under the same Alpha. I want to understand... why?"Tiffany's eyes narrowed. "Why what?""Why betray your pack? Your Alpha? Everything you've been raised to believe in?" Astraia leaned forward slightly, wincing as the movement pulled at her injured ribs. "What could possibly be worth that?"Something flickered across Tiffany's face—bitterness, maybe. Then, unexpectedly, she laughed. "You know what's funny, Astraia? You never even realized what you had. High ranking position even if you weren't Grant's mate. Respect. Power. All handed to you just because you were the Beta's daughter."Astraia's eyes flashed with anger. "I worked for my position, my power. Unlike you, I don't use others to get where I am.""So that's what this is about?
