The Moon Awakens
244 Words
The howls grew louder.
Aria stepped out of the chapel, Kael close behind her. The villagers had already retreated into their homes, doors barred and windows shuttered.
The forest edge moved with shadows.
Not one wolf.
Dozens.
Silver light from the rising moon spilled across the trees as massive shapes emerged from the darkness.
Kael swore under his breath.
“Vargan brought the whole pack.”
Aria’s stomach tightened.
“How many?”
“At least thirty,” Kael said quietly.
“And Vargan?”
As if summoned by the question, the largest wolf stepped forward from the trees.
Dark fur.
Massive shoulders.
Eyes glowing red in the moonlight.
Vargan shifted mid-step, bones cracking as he rose into human form. He stood shirtless in the cold night air, completely unbothered by the army behind him.
He smiled.
“Moonborn.”
Aria crossed her arms.
“You carved your little message. I saw it.”
“Yes,” Vargan said calmly. “I wanted to be sure you understood what you are.”
“Funny,” Aria replied. “Because I still don’t.”
Vargan began walking toward her slowly.
Kael moved in front of her.
The Alpha chuckled.
“You still protect her, Kael? Even knowing what she is?”
Kael’s eyes flashed gold.
“I protect people who don’t murder villages.”
“Ah,” Vargan said. “Still the same.”
Aria stepped around Kael.
“I’m right here, you know.”
- Writer
