Chapter 8
3129words
Border patrols were strengthened, and clan members remained vigilant at all times. Liam and I had meetings in the council hall almost every day, discussing response strategies.
Ethan also stayed, his combat experience and knowledge of the Blood Moon Clan became valuable resources. Although some elders expressed doubts about his presence, Liam insisted on letting him stay.
"He saved my life," Liam said, "and he knows more about the Blood Moon clan than any of us."
I also support this decision. Despite past unpleasantness, Ethan did indeed step up at the critical moment, which is enough to prove his sincerity.
That evening, I was practicing controlling the Moon Shadow clan's power in the garden. Since the inheritance ceremony, I could feel the energy within me growing stronger, but also becoming harder to control.
"Focus," Liam instructed, standing beside me, "imagine the moonlight is a river, you're not controlling it, but guiding it."
I closed my eyes and tried following his instructions. Slowly, I felt the energy becoming steady, like a gentle stream rather than a raging flood.
"Well done," Liam said approvingly, "you're making quick progress."
I opened my eyes to see the silver light gathered in my hands was more stable and bright than ever before.
"Thank you for your guidance," I smiled and said, "without you, I wouldn't know what to do."
Liam gently held my hand: "You are stronger than you imagine, Selena. You just need to believe in yourself."
Just then, a rush of hurried footsteps interrupted us. Kane walked quickly toward us, with a tense expression on his face.
"Alpha, Luna," he gave a bow, "there is an urgent situation."
"What is it?" Liam immediately became alert.
"Blood Moon clan's messenger has arrived," Kane said, "they brought a proposal."
We followed Kane to the council hall. There, a tall werewolf stood in the center, with two guards behind him. They all wore the distinctive red and black clothing of the Blood Moon clan.
"Luna of the Moonlight clan and Alpha of the Shadow Pack," the messenger bowed slightly, but with no trace of respect in his eyes, "I bring a proposal from our Alpha."
"Speak," Liam said calmly, "we're all ears."
"Our Alpha proposes to settle our dispute through a duel," the messenger said, "If you win, the Blood Moon Clan will acknowledge the Shadow Clan's right of inheritance, and never challenge it again. If we win, the Shadow Clan must relinquish control of the border territories."
The council hall erupted in an uproar. The border territories were rich in resources and an important domain of the Shadow Clan.
"This is a trap," one elder immediately said, "the Blood Moon Clan never keeps their word."
"I agree," another elder said, "we should not accept this proposal."
Liam pondered for a moment, then asked: "What are the rules of the duel?"
The messenger revealed a cold smile: "It's simple, one-on-one combat until one side surrenders or can no longer continue. Our Alpha will personally enter the battle."
"I accept," Liam said without hesitation, "I will represent the Shadow Clan and Shadow Pack in the challenge."
"No!" I exclaimed, "It's too dangerous!"
The Blood Moon Clan's Alpha was known for his cruelty. He never showed mercy in battle, and multiple challengers had already died at his hands.
"I must do this, Selena," Liam said firmly, "As an Alpha, protecting the pack is my responsibility."
I wanted to object, but seeing the determination in his eyes, I knew I couldn't change his decision.
"The duel will take place three days from now on the night of the full moon," the messenger said, "in the neutral zone between the two territories."
After speaking, they turned and left, leaving us in the council hall to discuss.
"It's a trap," Ethan stepped forward and said, "The Blood Moon clan never follows rules. They must have some scheme."
"I know," Liam said, "but this is the best chance to resolve the conflict. If I win, we can avoid more bloodshed."
"What if you lose?" I couldn't help asking, my voice trembling with worry.
Liam looked at me, his eyes full of determination: "I won't lose."
After the meeting, I came alone to the lakeside, my heart filled with anxiety. Moonlight spilled across the lake, forming a silver path, but at this moment I had no interest in appreciating this beautiful scenery.
"You're worried about him."
I turned around and saw Ethan standing not far away. His expression was calm, but there was a hint of emotion in his eyes that I couldn't read.
"Yes," I admitted, "the Blood Moon clan's Alpha is dangerous."
"Liam is a powerful warrior," Ethan said, "but you're right, the Blood Moon clan won't follow the rules. They must have a backup plan."
"What do you know?" I asked sharply.
Ethan hesitated for a moment, then said: "I heard that the Blood Moon clan has obtained an ancient weapon that can weaken an Alpha's power."
My heart sank: "What weapon?"
"A silver knife soaked in eclipse herb," Ethan explained, "even a slight scratch could cause a werewolf to lose most of their power."
Eclipse herb is a rare plant that has deadly effects on werewolves. If the Blood Moon clan truly possessed such a weapon, Liam would be in extreme danger.
"We must warn Liam," I said urgently, "he needs to know this."
"He already knows," Ethan said, "I just told him. But he still decided to accept the challenge."
I bit my lip, feeling both admiration and heartache. Liam always put the safety of the pack first, even if it meant putting himself in danger.
"There must be a way to help him," I said firmly, "I can't just stand by and watch."
Ethan pondered for a moment, then said: "Perhaps there is one way. But it requires you to fully master the power of the Moon Shadow clan."
"What way?"
"Luna's Blessing," Ethan said, "According to legend, the Luna of the Moon Shadow clan can temporarily transfer her power to the Alpha, enhancing his abilities. But this requires extreme control, and it consumes a vast amount of the Luna's energy."
I had never heard of this legend before, but if it could help Liam, I was willing to try.
"Teach me," I said resolutely, "I need to learn this."
Ethan shook his head: "I cannot teach you, because I am not a member of the Moon Shadow clan. But perhaps the elders know."
Early the next morning, I found the Grand Elder and inquired about Luna's Blessing.
"This is an ancient and dangerous ritual," the Grand Elder said gravely, "very few Luna have been able to successfully perform it, and even when successful, it will leave Luna in a weakened state."
"I'm willing to take that risk," I said firmly, "for Liam, for our clan."
The Grand Elder looked at me, a glimmer of approval flashing in his eyes: "Your determination reminds me of your mother. She was the same way, willing to sacrifice everything for the clan."
At the mention of my mother, my heart trembled slightly. My memories of her had grown dim, but I knew she was a respected Luna.
"I will teach you," the Grand Elder finally said, "but you must understand, this process is extremely dangerous. If not controlled properly, you might lose all your power, even your life."
"I understand," I said, "but I must try."
Over the next two days, under the Grand Elder's guidance, I continuously practiced controlling and channeling the power of the Moon Shadow clan. It was an arduous process, each attempt leaving me exhausted.
Liam was also preparing for the duel, training every day at the training grounds with the strongest warriors to sharpen his skills.
We rarely had time alone together, but whenever our eyes met, I could feel his care and love for me.
The night before the duel, I finally mastered the basic techniques of Luna's blessing. Though not perfect yet, the Grand Elder believed I was ready.
"Remember," he cautioned me, "the blessing must be performed when the moonlight is strongest, at the moment when the full moon is directly overhead in the sky."
I nodded, feeling both nervous and excited.
Returning to my room, I found Liam waiting for me. He stood by the window, his perfect silhouette outlined by the moonlight.
"You shouldn't take this risk," he said as soon as I entered, "Luna's blessing is too dangerous."
I walked up to him and looked straight into his eyes: "You shouldn't have accepted the duel either, but you did it because you wanted to protect the clan. Now, let me protect you too."
Liam's expression softened, and he reached out to caress my cheek: "Do you know? From the first time I saw you, I knew how brave you were."
"I'm not brave," I said softly, "I just can't lose you."
Liam pulled me into his arms, holding me tightly. I could feel his strong heartbeat, steady and powerful.
"No matter what happens," he whispered in my ear, "remember that I love you, Selena. From the first time I saw you, I fell in love with you."
I looked up at him, tears in my eyes: "I love you too, Liam. We'll get through this difficult time together."
He lowered his head to kiss me, a kiss both tender and passionate, as if pouring all his love into it.
When we separated, I saw the red in his eyes, knowing he was trying hard to control his instincts.
"You should rest," I said softly, "you'll need all your strength tomorrow."
Liam nodded, but didn't leave immediately. He took a small box from his pocket and handed it to me.
"This is for you," he said, "no matter what happens tomorrow, I want you to have it."
I opened the box, inside was an exquisite ring with a blue gemstone embedded on it, glimmering with mysterious light under the moonlight.
"This is a ring passed down through generations in my family," Liam said, "Legend has it that it can protect the wearer from harm."
I looked at him with emotion as he put the ring on my finger. It fit perfectly, as if it was made specifically for me.
"Thank you," I said softly, "I will cherish it forever."
Liam kissed me one last time, then left. I stood by the window, watching his silhouette disappear into the night, my heart filled with both love and worry.
The day of the duel finally arrived.
A clearing had been made in the neutral zone, surrounded by members of both clans. The atmosphere was tense and heavy, everyone knowing the importance of this duel.
The Alpha of the Blood Moon Clan was already waiting in the center of the arena, tall and muscular, with dangerous red light flickering in his eyes. He held a long blade in his hand, the edge gleaming in the sunlight.
I stood in the Moon Shadow Clan's camp, nervously waiting. Liam was making his final preparations, while Ethan stood beside me, his expression serious.
"Remember," he reminded me in a low voice, "the Blood Moon Clan won't follow the rules. You must stay vigilant at all times."
I nodded, unconsciously fidgeting with the ring Liam had given me, praying it would bring good luck.
Finally, Liam walked into the arena. He wore a simple black combat suit and held a silver longsword in his hand. He looked calm and confident, with determination flickering in his eyes.
The two Alphas met in the center of the arena and exchanged brief bows. Then, the duel began.
The Alpha of the Blood Moon clan launched the first attack, his movements fast as lightning, his long blade aimed straight at Liam's heart. But Liam was faster, he dodged to the side while counterattacking, his silver sword slicing across the opponent's arm.
The Blood Moon Alpha let out a cry of pain, but quickly recovered and attacked again. The battle between the two was intense and spectacular, each offensive and defensive move eliciting gasps from the audience.
I watched nervously, my palms already soaked with sweat. Although Liam was performing well, I could tell the Blood Moon Alpha was holding back, as if waiting for something.
Just then, I noticed unusual movement in the Blood Moon clan's formation. Several werewolves were quietly changing positions, seemingly holding something in their hands.
"Ethan," I said in a low voice, "they're planning something."
Ethan looked in the direction of my gaze, his expression immediately becoming vigilant: "Archers. They plan to shoot when Liam is distracted."
My heart sank, knowing our fears had come true. The Blood Moon clan indeed had no intention of following the rules.
"We must warn Liam," I said urgently, "but not too obviously, or they will act immediately."
Ethan thought for a moment, then said: "I have an idea."
He quietly moved to the edge of the field, pretending to just adjust his position. Then, he made a subtle gesture toward Liam's direction.
Liam seemed to notice, his fighting style changed slightly, becoming more defensive while maintaining vigilance of his surroundings.
The duel continued, both Alphas demonstrating amazing skill and power. But as time passed, I could see Liam beginning to tire, his movements becoming slightly slower.
The Blood Moon Alpha seemed to notice this as well, his attacks becoming more ferocious, forcing Liam to continuously retreat.
Just then, I saw the Blood Moon archers begin to move. They quietly raised their bows, aiming at Liam.
"Now!" I shouted in my mind, while raising my hand, preparing to cast the Luna blessing.
At the moment the arrow was about to be released, the full moon rose to the center of the sky. I felt a powerful energy surge into my body, stronger than ever before.
I closed my eyes, concentrated, and channeled this energy toward Liam. I could feel the connection between us, that invisible bond growing stronger and stronger.
"Liam Nightfall," I called in my heart, "accept my blessing, accept the power of the Moon Shadow clan."
A silver light burst from within me, shooting directly toward Liam. Under everyone's astonished gaze, Liam was enveloped in silver light, his body began to glow, and his eyes turned pure silver.
Just then, the Blood Moon clan's archer released the arrow. But surprisingly, the arrow suddenly changed direction as it approached Liam, shooting toward the Blood Moon Alpha instead.
The Blood Moon Alpha barely managed to dodge, but the arrow grazed his shoulder, leaving a wound. He looked at Liam in shock, seemingly unable to believe what had happened.
Liam stood there, his body emanating a silver light, his eyes flickering with the power of the moon. He no longer looked like an ordinary Alpha, but a warrior blessed by moonlight.
"Is this your plan?" Liam's voice was calm yet powerful, "To win through despicable means?"
The Blood Moon Alpha's face turned ugly, but he quickly regained his composure: "This is just a small accident. The duel continues."
"Then let's continue," Liam said, "but this time, we follow the true rules."
The duel resumed, but this time the situation was completely different. Each of Liam's attacks carried the power of moonlight, his speed and strength significantly enhanced. The Blood Moon Alpha was no match at all and was quickly backed into a corner.
Finally, Liam's sword pressed against the Blood Moon Alpha's throat: "Surrender, this duel is over."
A flash of unwillingness crossed the Blood Moon Alpha's eyes, but he knew he had lost. He slowly lowered his weapon: "I surrender."
Cheers erupted from the Moon Shadow clan's camp. Liam had won, we had won!
But just then, I felt a wave of intense pain wash over me. The backlash of Luna's blessing had begun, and my power was rapidly draining away. My vision blurred, my legs weakened, and I collapsed forward.
“Selena！”
I heard Liam's shout, but the sound seemed to come from far away. I felt someone catch me, and then I lost consciousness.
When I regained consciousness, I found myself lying in the Moon Shadow Clan's medical room. Liam sat by the bed, his face showing fatigue and concern.
"You're awake," he sighed with relief, "you've been unconscious for three days."
"Three days?" I said in surprise, my voice somewhat hoarse from weakness.
"Yes," Liam said, "the backlash from Luna's blessing was more severe than we imagined. You almost depleted all your power."
I tried to sit up, but my body was still very weak. Liam helped me adjust my position so I could lean against the headboard.
"What about the result of the duel?" I asked, "Did the Blood Moon Clan keep their promise?"
Liam nodded: "Yes, they have withdrawn all their challenges and acknowledged the inheritance rights of the Moon Shadow Clan. The border regions have also returned to peace."
I breathed a sigh of relief, knowing our efforts hadn't been in vain.
"Thank you, Selena," Liam said sincerely, "Without your blessing, I might have lost."
"I only did what I should have," I said, "Just like you."
Liam held my hand, his eyes full of love: "You are much braver than I imagined."
Just then, the door was gently pushed open, and Ethan walked in. Seeing that I was awake, his face showed an expression of relief.
"You're finally awake," he said, "Everyone has been worried."
"Thank you for your concern," I said, "And thank you for your help in the duel."
Ethan shook his head: "I only did what I should have."
He looked at Liam, then said: "The elders want to know about Luna's condition. I'll go tell them you're awake."
After saying this, he turned and left, leaving Liam and me alone.
"He has changed a lot," I said softly, "he's no longer that arrogant and conceited Ethan."
Liam nodded: "Yes, sometimes, people need to experience certain things to truly grow."
I gazed at the moonlight outside the window, my heart filled with emotions. So much had happened during this time; I had transformed from a girl who avoided responsibility into Luna of the Moon Shadow Clan, found true love, and learned to take on responsibilities.
"Liam," I said softly, "thank you for always waiting for me."
Liam leaned down to kiss me, a kiss that was gentle and passionate, filled with promises for the future.
"I will always wait for you," he whispered in my ear, "no matter how long."
Moonlight spilled over us, witnessing this moment of vows. I knew that no matter what challenges lay ahead, we would face them together.
Because we were each other's destiny, a choice made under the moonlight.
