Chapter 9 CHOICES IN THE MOONLIGHT

Alpha Herrick's POV

I had left Elena in the warm cocoon of our shared chambers, bathed in the soft light of morning. The weight of the recent realization of Elema's gift still lingered heavily on my shoulders. I knew I had to face the situation and make a decision that would impact not only our pack but also Elena's future.

Last night was beyond my expectations, and I wished things could continue like this, as planned, but it has become

As I made my way out of our chambers, I couldn't shake the unease that had settled within me. Elena's presence in our pack had been both a blessing and a source of uncertainty. Her rare gift held the potential to heal, but it also posed questions and challenges that I was not entirely prepared for.

Outside, the morning sun had begun its ascent, casting long shadows across the territory. The envoys from Crescent Ridge pack awaited me in a secluded area. They were a group of wolves from the neighboring pack, their expressions a mix of hope and desperation.

Their leader, a tall and weathered wolf with streaks of grey in his fur, stepped forward to address me. "Alpha Herrick, we come to you in a time of great need. Our pack has been plagued by a mysterious disease, one that has defied our healers and threatens our very existence."

I nodded in understanding, though my concern for Crescent Ridge pack was intertwined with worries about how their request would affect Elena and, most especially, my pack.

"We've heard of a miracle," the envoy continued, his eyes locked onto mine, "we believe you can help us heal our land and restore it. We ask for her help in curing our pack, and in return, we are prepared to offer a truce, trade, or anything that will cause a lasting alliance between our packs."

The weight of their request hung heavy in the air. The idea of a truce and alliance was tempting, but I couldn't ignore the fact that I was being asked to make a monumental decision about Elena's fate. And it is evident that though this may seem like a request, it wasn't. Elena is mine in all sense and I get to decide however way she can be of use to me, but I have a sudden urge to protect her but unfortunately, I can't. She is prey in the hands of anyone who knows of her gift.

"We appreciate your offer," I replied carefully, "but this gift I possess is not mine alone. I cannot make decisions about it without involving other pack members."

The envoys exchanged glances, and I could see their frustration and impatience. "Alpha Herrick," the leader said, "time is of the essence. Our pack is suffering, and we don't have the luxury of waiting."

I knew that I couldn't postpone this decision any longer. With a heavy heart, I nodded to the envoys. "I will discuss this matter with my pack, and we will let you know our decision soon."

As I returned to my chambers, I couldn't help but feel the world's weight on my shoulders. The choices we faced were complex, and the consequences of those choices would ripple through our pack and beyond. I knew that whatever decision Elena made it would define her place in the Crescent Moon pack and set the course for the uncertain future that lay ahead.

Returning to our chambers, I found Elena standing by the window, her expression a mix of anticipation and anxiety. Her eyes met mine as I entered, and I could sense the questions that had been gnawing at her since our encounter with the envoys.

I approached her, my heart heavy with the responsibility of conveying what I needed. Gently, I reached out and took her hand, leading her to sit beside me on the edge of the bed.

"Elena," I began. I tried to hide the tension that had enveloped me. She looked at me, and I could tell she was trying to gauge my mood

"There are matters I need to discuss with you." I continued.

I saw her face drop and her demeanor change. She was scared. I have never seen her this way, not even when she was sold to me.

I motioned for Serah to leave us alone, and as the door closed behind her, I approached her. "Elena, I did not reveal the nature of your gift to those men. They are from a neighboring pack, and their arrival here was not by choice."

Confusion washed over her. "Not by choice? What do you mean?" She said, her voice breaking.

I took a deep breath. "They are envoys from a neighboring pack, the Crescent Ridge pack. A terrible disease has afflicted them. They asked what I did to help my pack. I said I got a gift from the Moon goddess, so they asked me to share some of the gifts. I thought you could help, and their pack's survival depends on your abilities."

"What can I do to help them?" She said.

I looked at her with sincerity and said. "Elena, your gift is rare, and its potential remains unknown. Crescent Ridge Pack believes your healing abilities may be the key to curing their sickness. They've requested my aid, and they are willing to negotiate for it."

I studied her momentarily and continued, "I haven't made any decisions yet. I wanted to discuss this with you first to get your perspective. You must agree."

Her eyes widened as she absorbed the gravity of the situation. I wish I could know what she was thinking.

I wanted to tell her how serious this situation was and how complicated things might get. As much as I want to protect her, I have my pack to protect when it comes to a decision. My pack would always come first, but she does not need to know that now.

The morning sunlight streamed through the window, casting a warm glow. The fate of my pack and the mysteries of Elena's gift remained uncertain.