Fated by Blood and Moon

Chapter 17: The Calm Before the Storm

Leo's POV

The night was eerily quiet, the air heavy with the tension of what was to come. The moon hung high in the sky, casting a silvery glow over the pack house as I paced the floor, my mind racing with strategies and possibilities. The Bloodfangs would attack at dawn, and I needed to ensure that my pack was ready.

I could sense Jaxon, Kira, and Bruno preparing their teams, each member sharpening their skills and weapons, their faces set with determination. Yet, amid the chaos of thoughts swirling in my mind, one presence stood out-the warmth of Maya, my mate.

I glanced out the window, hoping to catch a glimpse of her. She had been so strong today, willing to fight alongside us despite the uncertainty that lingered in the air. It amazed me how much she had grown in such a short time, transforming from a girl seeking refuge to a fierce warrior ready to stand by my side.

The bond between us pulsed, an invisible thread connecting our souls. Maya, I tried to reach her through the mind link, but as expected, it was quiet on the other end. Until she had her Luna coronation, I couldn't communicate with her the way I could with my pack.

I stepped out of the pack house, the cool night air brushing against my skin, invigorating and calming at the same time. I made my way to the training area, where I could see Jaxon leading a group of warriors through a series of maneuvers.

"Alpha," he greeted me with a nod, his brow furrowed with concentration. "We're just going over the final plans."

"Good," I replied, my voice steady. "I want everyone to know their roles when the Bloodfangs arrive. We can't afford any mistakes."

"Understood," Jaxon said, his gaze flicking toward the gathering shadows. "The Bloodfangs are ruthless. They'll try to exploit any weakness they can find."

"Exactly," I said, the weight of leadership pressing heavily on my shoulders. "We need to show them that we are united and that we will not back down."

As the warriors practiced their formations, I couldn't shake the feeling of unease creeping into my chest. I had faith in my pack, but there was something about the Bloodfangs that set my instincts on high alert. They wouldn't come to fight without a plan, and I had to be ready for anything.

Suddenly, a familiar presence approached. It was Bruno, my Gamma, his expression serious. "Alpha, we've been discussing the best way to fortify the borders. I think it would be wise to set up a few traps to slow them down."

I nodded, appreciating his insight. "That's a good idea. Let's do it. We need every advantage we can get."

As he began outlining the plan, I felt a shift in the air, a sense of foreboding settling in my gut. Something is coming, Fenrir growled, his voice deep and resonant within me. We must be prepared.

"Alpha!" Kira called, her voice cutting through the night. "We've spotted movement near the eastern border!"

My heart raced as I turned toward her, my instincts kicking in. "How many?"

"Can't tell yet," she replied, her eyes scanning the darkened treeline. "But it looks like a group."

"Gather the warriors!" I commanded, my heart pounding in rhythm with Fenrir's anticipation. "We need to be ready for anything."

As the pack assembled, I felt a surge of determination wash over me. I would protect them, all of them-especially Maya. I could only hope that she remained safe and far from the chaos that was about to unfold.

Maya, I thought, reaching for her again through the mind link. Stay close to the pack and keep your guard up.

But silence answered back. I could feel the rising panic within me, a primal urge to shield her from harm. I could sense her strength, her determination, but I also understood the danger she would be stepping into if the Bloodfangs attacked.

Jaxon stepped beside me, his voice steady. "Alpha, what's our plan?"

I took a deep breath, grounding myself in the moment. "We hold our ground. We fight together. No one gets left behind."

As the warriors positioned themselves around the clearing, I caught sight of Maya moving toward the gathering area, her gaze fierce and determined. She exuded an energy that sparked hope within me. She belonged here, alongside us, and I would do everything in my power to keep her safe.

"Stay behind Jaxon," I instructed, moving toward her. "I want you to be safe, Maya."

"I can handle myself, Leo," she replied, her voice steady and unwavering. "You've taught me how to fight."

I reached for her hand, squeezing it tightly. "I know you can, but I won't risk losing you. Promise me you'll stay close."

She nodded, determination gleaming in her eyes. "I promise."

As we stood together, I felt Fenrir stirring within me, his instincts mirroring my own. The time for battle was approaching, and we would face it head-on, united as one.

Suddenly, the tension in the air shifted, and a low growl echoed from the treeline. My heart raced as shadows emerged from the darkness-the Bloodfangs had arrived.

"Prepare yourselves!" I barked, raising my voice above the rising tide of anxiety. "This is it!"

The warriors stood ready, eyes focused on the encroaching danger, a collective breath held in anticipation.

Let them come, Fenrir rumbled, his voice deep with confidence. We will show them our strength.

I turned to Maya, our gazes locking. In that moment, I knew we were ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. Together, we would stand against the storm, united in our love, our pack, and our shared destiny.