All Chapters of Dark Luna Rising: Chapter 11 - Chapter 19

The Pack House training grounds were a world of their own. Nestled in a clearing surrounded by towering pine trees, the area was alive with the energy of young Valentians sharpening their skills. The air carried the sharp tang of sweat and the faint rustle of wind moving through the trees. Sunlight dappled the ground, highlighting the intricate obstacle course stretching across the clearing—wooden beams for balance, suspended ropes for climbing, and a pit of mud for endurance challenges. Wooden dummies lined one side of the grounds, their battered forms evidence of countless sparring sessions. At the far end, a makeshift arena of packed earth awaited those ready to prove their mettle in combat.Erika’s breath caught as she took in the scene. Diego stood beside her, his arms crossed as he surveyed his pack with a mixture of pride and scrutiny. Alessandro and Lucia were at the center of the action, their voices carrying over the din as they barked instructions to the gathered members.“

The sun had barely begun to rise, casting faint streaks of orange and pink across the horizon. Erika tightened the laces of her training shoes, her breath clouding in the crisp morning air. Her heart thudded in a mix of anticipation and trepidation. Today was the beginning of something new—her first day of combat training with Alessandro.She kept her outfit simple: a fitted tank top, leggings, a light jacket, and sturdy running shoes. Her hair was tied into a high ponytail, out of the way but still cascading down her back like a silken banner. As she stepped out of the mansion’s grand doorway, the quiet crunch of her footsteps on the gravel echoed faintly in the stillness.“You’re up early, Erika.” The familiar voice made her pause mid-step. She turned to see Dunia standing in the shadow of the entryway, her expression a mix of curiosity and concern.“Good morning, Mother Luna,” Erika said with a polite nod. “I&rs

Erika had gone through a rigorous week of advanced drills with Alessandro, and today, she must pass the final test.She stood at the edge of the training grounds, her breath curling in the crisp air as she surveyed the lush forest before her. The obstacle course lay beyond the tree line and stretched into the wooded hills, its beginning deceptively straightforward— but Alessandro’s briefing made it clear— looks were deceiving.Alessandro stood beside her, his demeanor serious but encouraging. “Remember,” he said, his voice steady, “this isn’t about how fast you complete it. It’s about strategy, endurance, and your ability to think on your feet. The path isn’t straight or obvious. You’ll need to find the markers to guide you.”Erika nodded, her hands curling into fists at her sides. Her body still hummed with soreness from days of grueling training, but she pushed the discomfort aside.

Erika paused at the threshold of her chambers, her eyes falling on the delicate night robes draped neatly across her bed. The soft fabric shimmered in the light, a pale, gossamer thing that seemed too fragile for the weight of her current turmoil.As she stepped inside, the faint scent of lavender and chamomile hit her. The bath was ready, steam curling lazily into the air, with petals of red and white roses floating on the surface. She touched the water hesitantly, warmth greeting her fingertips.Her first thought was of Dunia, but then doubt crept in. Could this be Diego’s doing? The thought sent an unexpected shiver down her spine. It was thoughtful, almost tender—but instead of comfort, it only heightened her nerves.What does he want from me tonight?She stripped off her training clothes and sank into the bath, her muscles sighing in relief even as her mind remained restless. She closed her eyes, trying to let the soothing water

“An Alpha must always be seen with his Luna. It’s powerful. It’s practical…” Diego’s words echoed in her mind.He cared for his image as Alpha. That was all.Erika stared at her reflection in the mirror, trying to make peace with the hollow ache in her chest. I don’t matter to him as I hoped I would. But I owe him a debt I have to pay.Her resolve hardened. She vowed to do her best as his Luna, to stand beside him with dignity and strength, even if she could never win his heart. And somehow, to her surprise, it pleased her to try.If this is my fate, I will make the best of it. I’ll make him proud, and maybe I’ll learn to be proud of myself too.Astrid had chosen the outfit—a tailored suit in muted pastel pink paired with a white lace blouse that subtly emphasized her figure. The matching skirt hugged her curves without being revealing, giving her an air of understated s