Fated by Blood and Moon

Chapter 13: Whispers of the Past

Maya's POV

The sun hung low in the sky, casting a golden hue over the training grounds as I stood nervously beside Leo. Today was my first day training with the Silvermoon Pack, and the anticipation mixed with anxiety twisted in my stomach. I could feel Lyra stirring within me, her excitement palpable.

You can do this, Maya, she urged, her voice a soothing balm against my unease. This is your chance to prove yourself.

I took a deep breath, feeling the warmth of the sun on my skin and the cool breeze rustling through the trees. I was here, standing next to Leo, my mate, and that alone gave me strength.

Leo's presence was calming, and I stole a glance at him. He stood tall and confident, his posture radiating authority. His silver eyes met mine, and he offered me a reassuring smile. "Are you ready?"

I nodded, though my heart raced in my chest. "As ready as I'll ever be."

He placed a hand on my shoulder, the warmth of his touch sending a wave of comfort through me. "Just remember, you're not alone. I'll be right here."

With that, he turned and called out to the gathering pack members, his voice carrying over the sounds of their chatter. "Everyone, gather around! Today, we welcome Maya to our training session."

The pack members turned their attention to us, some smiling in welcome while others observed with curiosity. Jaxon stepped forward, his demeanor professional yet friendly. "Let's show her what we do here," he said, a hint of a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth.

As the group split into pairs for training, I felt the weight of their gazes on me. It was a mix of scrutiny and support, and I could sense that they were sizing me up, trying to gauge whether I belonged here.

I felt a familiar tug from Lyra. They can sense it too, Maya. They can feel the power within you.

I nodded internally, trying to push away my self-doubt. I would prove myself.

The training began, and I paired up with a fierce-looking woman named Clara, who had a strong build and an intimidating presence. "Don't hold back," Clara said, her tone serious. "I want to see what you're made of."

I took a deep breath, channeling Lyra's strength as I faced her. "I won't," I replied, determination lacing my voice.

Clara lunged forward, and I dodged to the side, surprising myself with my agility. The rush of movement felt exhilarating, and Lyra howled in delight, urging me on.

That's it! Show them what you can do!

With each strike and counter, I found my rhythm. Clara was skilled, but I could feel the power of my hybrid nature fueling my movements. The training became a dance of strength and strategy, and with every clash, I gained confidence.

As I sparred with Clara, I caught glimpses of Leo's watchful gaze. He stood with Jaxon, their expressions focused yet proud. I could see Leo's approval in the way he smiled when I landed a hit.

"Good! Keep it up!" Leo called out, his voice booming.

I felt a surge of energy at his words, pushing me to give my all. The sun warmed my back, and I could feel the bond between us strengthening, filling me with a sense of belonging I had longed for.

Leo's POV

Watching Maya train filled me with an overwhelming sense of pride. She was fierce and resilient, a warrior in her own right. As she faced off against Clara, I could see the spark of determination in her eyes, the way she moved with grace and agility that defied her past as an outcast.

Fenrir rumbled in agreement, sensing the strength radiating from her. She's different, Leo. Stronger than she realizes.

I nodded, feeling the bond between us deepen with every moment she spent training. She was adapting, learning to harness her strength, and it was a sight to behold.

Jaxon stood beside me, his arms crossed as he assessed the training. "She's a natural," he commented, a hint of surprise in his tone.

"Yeah," I replied, my gaze locked on Maya. "She's got something special."

Jaxon smirked, a glimmer of mischief in his eyes. "You're smitten, Alpha."

I shot him a warning glance, but I couldn't deny the truth in his words. Maya was unlike anyone I had ever met, and my feelings for her only deepened as I watched her thrive.

As the training session continued, I couldn't help but feel a sense of unease creeping in. The Bloodfangs were still out there, lurking in the shadows, waiting for the right moment to strike. I needed to keep Maya safe, to protect her from whatever threats lay ahead.

"Maya!" I called out, my voice cutting through the sounds of the training. She turned to me, her brow furrowing with concern. "Remember, we're a pack. If you need help, don't hesitate to call for it."

She nodded, determination shining in her eyes. "I won't forget."

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the training grounds, I felt a sense of hope growing within me. Maya was strong, and together we would face whatever challenges came our way.

Maya's POV

As the day wound down, I felt a surge of exhilaration coursing through me. I had trained harder than I ever had before, and the sense of accomplishment was intoxicating. My muscles were sore, but every ache reminded me of how far I had come.

I glanced over at Leo, who was speaking with Jaxon, their heads bent together in conversation. I could see the pride in Leo's eyes, and it filled me with warmth.

"Hey," he called out, breaking away from Jaxon to approach me. "You did great today."

"Thanks," I replied, feeling a shy smile spread across my face. "Clara is tough, but she pushed me."

Leo chuckled, his laughter rich and warm. "She's one of our best. You held your own against her."

I beamed at the compliment, feeling Lyra stir with excitement. We did well, didn't we?

Yes, I agreed, the bond between us growing stronger. We can only get better from here.

Leo's expression softened as he reached out to tuck a strand of hair behind my ear. "I'm proud of you, Maya. You're becoming one of us."

In that moment, surrounded by the pack and the warmth of his touch, I felt a sense of belonging that I had never known before. I was no longer just a girl on the run; I was a member of the Silvermoon Pack, and I was ready to face whatever challenges awaited us.

As night fell and the stars began to twinkle overhead, I knew that this was just the beginning of our journey together. We would face the storms ahead, united in our strength and love, and I felt a flicker of hope igniting within me.