The Alpha’s Deception, The Luna’s Silent Escape with His Bloodline

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On the night of their third mating anniversary, the gift Tharina Steelhowl received was not a blessing from the Moon Goddess.

It was a crystal recording orb.

Inside it, her mate, Alpha Malven Ashbourne, was tangled with his personal attendant inside a carriage, the scene spreading across every communication mirror in the werewolf kingdoms, rising to the top of all public channels.

Every wolf in the grand hall turned to look at her.

All of them waited.

They waited for the proud and sharp Luna of the Ashbourne Pack to lose control and break apart in front of everyone.

But Tharina did none of that.

She calmly ordered the gathering to end. One by one, the guests left under her command. Then she returned straight to the Ashbourne pack estate and spoke the words she had buried for too long.

"I want to separate from Malven. I am carrying his pup, and I need you to keep this from him."

Jolene Ashbourne, the Alpha Mother, stood frozen.

The woman who had once loved her son without hesitation was now asking to leave him, while carrying his bloodline, and still refusing to let him know.

Tharina let out a quiet, bitter laugh.

She had loved Malven.

When his carriage accident shattered his body and mind, she had given up everything to stay beside him. Her future. Her path. Her pride.

But after their bonding ceremony, Malvens so called memory lapses became frequent.

He would forget her. Forget their bond. And lose himself with different she wolves again and again.

Tharina had thrown away her dignity for him. She had argued, cried, and even threatened to destroy herself just to pull him back.

He would kneel, apologize, swear he remembered her again. Then the next day, he would be holding another woman in the open.

She kept telling herself it was his illness. Until yesterday when she had heard the truth.

Through a communication stone, Malvens voice came clearly, relaxed and mocking.

"You came up with a clever excuse. But tell me, you really dont care for her anymore?"

Malven gave a low scoff.

"I did before. Now I am tired of her. She is no longer young, always suspicious. And what kind of Alpha stays tied to one woman forever?"

In that moment, everything inside Tharina went silent. Something in her died.

Fine

Then she would leave.

And she would take her unborn pup with her.

One day, when Malven learned the truth, he would lose everything and regret it too late.

Their third mating anniversary.

Tharina Steelhowl received a cruel gift. A recording of Alpha Malven Ashbourne with his attendant, spreading across all territories.

Only moments before, he had held her hand in front of everyone while they cut the ceremonial cake.

"Every year from now on, we will stand like this," he had said softly.

Now every gaze in the hall was fixed on her. Gaze of curiosity, mockery, also pity.

Yeah, they all waited for her to break.

"Luna, should I track the Alphas location?"

Caelan, the pack steward, lowered his voice carefully.

"It may just be the Alphas condition acting up again."

The Alpha Mother, Jolene Ashbourne, had given strict orders. No one was allowed to upset Tharina tonight. Caelan could only rely on that excuse.

Tharinas expression remained calm.

"No need. The image is unclear. Just remove it from the channels."

Caelan froze.

Around them, whispers spread quickly.

"She is not going after him?"

"Last time, when the Alpha was seen with another she wolf, she had just recovered from a healing ritual. She still ran out and forced him back."

"And during her birthday, when he brought someone else, she banished that girl from every pack gathering."

"But it is because of his condition. He forgets her, forgets the bond. And every woman he chooses looks like her."

"That only proves she is the one he truly favors. But she causes trouble over everything. No patience at all."

Every word reached Tharina clearly, but she didnt respond. They believed she had finally learned to stay quiet to keep her place as Luna.

Tharinas gaze shifted to the large portrait hanging nearby.

It was from their bonding day. Back then, Malvens eyes had been filled with warmth.

Now she understood. Oaths and love were the weakest things in this world. Easily broken.

Just yesterday, she had heard everything.

There was no illness. No memory loss. Malven remembered everything. He remembered growing up with her. Remembered their bond, her crying, begging, forgiving him again and again.

He simply didnt care.

Tharina had spent countless nights crying herself to sleep.

Tonight, she stopped.

She was done.

***

After the gathering, Tharina returned to the Ashbourne estate.

Jolene had already seen everything. Her eyes were filled with pain and anger. She had already sent wolves to bring Malven back.

Soon, the communication stone lit up.

"Madam," the attendants voice trembled. "The young Alpha has recovered from his episode, but he says he is occupied. He drove our people away."

"He asked us to tell the Luna that he feels bad for exposing the girl publicly, so he will stay and comfort her."

"He also said the Luna handled things well tonight. Very reasonable. Removing the news so the girl would not feel embarrassed. He said she is finally becoming more"

The stone was thrown to the ground.

Jolenes hands shook with anger.

"That fool! When will this so-called illness end? Tharina, what you have endured no one should bear this."

Tharina gently held her arm. Her voice was calm, but tired to the bone.

"Mother, I came tonight to ask for your agreement. I want to end this bond with Malven."

"Five years ago, my family fell. My father was dying. Your pack saved us. We owe you everything."

"Then Malven was injured, and he changed. He became wild and unstable. You asked me to stay, to help him return to himself."

"I agreed. I gave up my path, my training, everything. I stayed for him. I thought things were getting better. But the episodes continued. He kept forgetting me."

"I tried everything. But I cannot hold him anymore. And I will never make him stay."

Jolenes eyes turned red as she pulled Tharina into an embrace.

"Our family has failed you. I promised your parents I would protect you. I never thought it would become like this."

"After the accident, he remembered no one but you. He searched for you like he had lost his soul. He refused every other mate."

"And now, when this illness appears, the only one he forgets is you."

Tharina almost spoke.

He never forgot?

But she swallowed the truth. Instead, she smiled faintly.

"Mother I am tired."

Jolene sighed deeply. "Alright. I will respect your choice."

Tharina placed a hand over her lower belly. "There is one more thing. Please dont tell him that I am carrying his pup."

Jolene froze. Her gaze dropped, then tears fell.

"You foolish girl. You carry his bloodline, yet you still want to leave?"

Tharinas eyes misted, but she held back.

"This pup is not a tool. I will not let him grow in a broken bond. I can raise him. I can protect him."

"Dont tell Malven. He cannot even remember me."

Jolene looked at her for a long moment, then nodded. "I will arrange everything. The separation, and your secret. This is what we owe you."

Tharina bowed her head slightly and turned away.

Behind her, Jolene whispered softly, "How did it come to this"

Tharina paused for a brief moment. She remembered the Malven from before. The one who saw only her.

After the accident, he became someone else. A cold and unpredictable man. He would hurt her, then beg for forgiveness.

She had never blamed him. She had loved him without doubt.

But now she knew the truth. And her heart would never turn back to him again.

***

As Tharina stepped out, her communication stone lit up.

A large transfer of gold from Malven.

Then several voice messages.

In the background, there were soft, breathless sounds.

"My moon, you didnt make trouble tonight. Good."

"My head hurt again, I mistook her for you."

"Send me that Silvermoon Regalia jewel set. She says I was too rough, nothing calms her. She really likes your collection."

Tharina listened to the voice message without any change in her expression. Then her eyes lowered to the ring on her finger.

A moonstone ring.

It was paired with the "Silvermoon Regalia" scent oil, crafted from rare night-blooming herbs.

Malven had made it himself. It was the gift he used when he asked her to become his mate.

Now he used his so-called memory loss as a shield, giving away things that belonged only to her. Again and again.

Each time, he would watch her break apart. He would watch her cry, shout, and lose control. Then he would calm her with a few soft words, pulling her back as if nothing had happened.

This had happened too many times.

But not anymore. She no longer wanted the ring. And she no longer wanted Malven.

Tharina said nothing. She removed the ring from her finger and dropped it into the waste bin. Then she asked someone to take all the jewelry away.

***

Before sunrise the next morning, Malven returned to the pack estate. He had already washed away every scent that didnt belong to him. He changed into clean clothes and climbed into bed quietly.

From behind, he wrapped his arm around Tharina. His chin rested near her neck. His fingers moved slowly along her waist.

His voice sounded soft when saying, "Tharina, I am sorry. My condition acted up again yesterday, and everything spread across the territories. I know it must have hurt you."

He paused, then added, "But she is still young. Spending some time with her is only right. Do not take it too seriously."

Tharina gave a small nod. "Alright."

Malven stiffened. The words he prepared to comfort her stopped midway.

"Tharina, you are really not angry this time?"

Tharina gave a faint smile. "Isnt this what you wanted? A calm and proper Luna?"

Malven looked satisfied. He took out a small bottle of scent oil and handed it to her, like a reward. The sweet smell reached her nose, and she frowned at once.

Not long ago, that young she-wolf, Elodie Wildmoor, had shown the same bottle to everyone through a communication mirror.

"My Alpha bought this for me. I dont like it. I will make him return it to his plain Luna."

There was a time when Malven searched across kingdoms just to bring her the best things. Now he gave her what another woman didnt want.

Tharina bit her lip until she tasted blood.

"I dont want something that has been touched by others."

Malvens expression shifted slightly. Without hesitation, he threw the bottle away. Then he pulled her into his arms.

"If you dont like it, alright, just throw it away."

"I have a full body check at the healers hall later. Tharina, it is time we have our own pup."

A pup

Pain spread through her chest. She lowered her eyes, hiding everything.

Once, they both wished for a pup more than anything. But now, she would never tell him.

Silence filled the room.

Tharina was about to speak when his communication stone lit up.

"Malven, I twisted my ankle. It hurts."

Malven glanced at Tharina, then spoke coldly, "Cant you just go to the healer yourself?"

He ended the call. Then he turned back to Tharina with a smile and helped her prepare.

"Today, my Luna comes first."

***

The carriage moved away from the estate.

Soon, the communication stone rang again. Malven answered.

Tharina couldnt hear the other side, but suddenly the carriage stopped hard.

Before she could react, Malven opened the door, came around, and pulled her out.

"Tharina, take another carriage to the healers hall."

Before she could speak, he had already left. The carriage rushed away.

Tharina stood still, watching it disappear. A quiet laugh escaped her lips. For a moment, she had believed there was still something real left in him.

In the end, she was the only foolish one.

***

Tharina went to the healers hall alone. After finishing her check, she turned a corner and saw them.

Malven and Elodie.

Elodie leaned against his chest, her eyes red. A small bandage with bright patterns covered her ankle.

When Elodie saw Tharina, she quickly spoke, "Luna Tharina, I am sorry. This is my fault. It is just a small injury, but I still called the Alpha. He should have stayed with you today. I feel very bad."

Tharina felt her stomach twist. She covered her mouth, trying not to retch.

"So now, a personal attendant also serves as a mate on the side."

Malvens face darkened. Anger flashed across his eyes.

But then he noticed her. Her face had no color. Her body swayed slightly.

Something tightened inside his chest. He reached for the scroll in her hand.

"Are you unwell?"

Before he could touch it, Elodie cried out softly, "Alpha, my ankle hurts so much"

His attention shifted at once. He let go of Tharinas hand and turned back to Elodie.

"It is alright. We will get it treated now."

He released Tharina so suddenly that she lost her balance. Her body leaned back, almost falling. She pressed her hand against the wall to steady herself.

When she looked up again, Malven was already gone. He carried Elodie away without looking back.

Pain spread through Tharinas chest. She clenched her hand tightly, forcing herself to stay calm.

She turned and left without another glance.

***

The moment Tharina stepped outside, her communication stone lit up.

A message from Jolene.

[Tharina, the bond severance papers will be ready in seven days.]

After being discharged from the healers hall, Tharina didnt hesitate. She drove straight across the territory to the private forging den that once belonged only to her.

Malven had given her that place after their mating rites. At that time, guilt had followed him like a shadow. She had stayed by his side, caring for him after his near death accident, abandoning her own path without complaint. The den had been his way of making it up to her.

When the bond was severed, she would not take any share of his Alpha wealth. Not a single coin.

But this place, she would keep it. Everything inside had been created by her own effort, shaped through long nights and quiet suffering. It was the only thing she had left to build a new life for herself and the pup growing inside her.

She had barely stepped inside when her assistant hurried over and handed her a record of items that had already been sent out.

Her work. All of it.

The necklaces she had forged with moonstones. The bracelets carved with protective runes. Even the rare pieces she had sealed away. Every single item had been removed and delivered to Elodie Wildmoor, all under Malvens command.

A cold fury rose within her. Her fingers tightened around her crystal communicator as she prepared to call him.

But before she could, something else caught her attention. Her name had spread across the packs network like wildfire.

There was a video. It showed her sitting alone in the waiting area of the healers hall, silent and still. Not far from her, Malven held Elodie in his arms, his voice low and gentle as he comforted her.

The reactions below were cruel.

"So even the Luna knows when to stay quiet. She must be afraid of losing her title."

"Its clear who the Alpha truly treasures. Look at how worried he is for Elodie."

"She only became his mate because she cared for him when he was injured. She turned kindness into a bond. Now the truth is showing."

The words were meant to wound, yet they found nothing left to break.

Malven had seen it as well. His answer came quickly. A large sum of money transferred to her account, followed by a short message.

"She had nightmares and needed me. Do not cause trouble."

Tharina looked at the glowing numbers for a long moment. Her eyes remained calm, empty of feeling.

Then she called him.

When he answered, her voice held no warmth at all.

"Malven, my creations were sent to your chosen one. Did you even consider asking me?"

On the other side, he sounded impatient, as if her question meant nothing.

"Is the payment not enough? You kept quiet yesterday. Why are you making noise now?"

A faint laugh slipped from her lips. Without another word, she ended the call and continued packing.

She stayed there through the night.

By the next day, everything she needed had been gathered. Once she left, she knew she would never return.

But when she entered the pack house again, she was met with a sight that made her pause.

Elodie was resting comfortably on the main couch, leaning into Malven as she spoke softly. The two of them looked close, like a true mated pair.

Hearing the door, Elodie turned her head. The moment she saw Tharina, her expression shifted. She drew closer to Malven, her posture small, almost fearful.

"Hello, Luna."

Tharina felt her body tighten, though she kept her face calm. Her gaze moved over them before she spoke, her tone cold.

"Alpha Ashbourne, you are quite thoughtful. Bringing her into this house to recover. Was the place too quiet without her presence?"

Malvens expression hardened immediately. He rose slightly, his voice carrying clear disapproval.

"Tharina, I believed you had learned restraint. Yet here you are again. Elodie is still injured. I will not leave her alone outside. She will remain here for a few days. What is your objection?"

Those words ended whatever little hope she still held.

She looked at him carefully. Once, he had been the center of her world. Now, he felt like a stranger.

There was no anger left. No sadness. Only emptiness.

She didnt argue. Her eyes moved away from them, and she turned toward the stairs.

The bedroom door closed behind her, cutting off the sound of Elodies soft crying. Cutting off the last tie that bound her to Malven.

Her strength left her then. She slid down slowly until she sat against the door. One hand rested over her stomach as she spoke in a quiet voice.

"You will not resent me for this, will you, my dear?"

It took a long time before Tharina could gather enough strength to rise. Her limbs felt weak, her spirit even more so. At last, she pushed herself up and went to collect her belongings.

Inside the carved wooden wardrobe lay everything she had prepared for her unborn pup. Tiny garments woven from soft fur cloth, small boots meant for first steps, and a thick patchwork blanket her mother had sewn during many full moons. Each stitch carried a blessing from the Moon Goddess.

She meant to take every single piece with her.

But the moment she pulled the doors open, a cold dread spread through her chest.

The space had been turned upside down. Nothing remained. The garments were gone, as though they had been taken by the wind.

Her steps grew sharp as she descended to the lower hall. She found the servant wolf nearby, her voice low but shaking with anger.

"Where have my things been taken?"

The servant lowered her head at once, unable to meet her eyes. Her voice faltered, and without thinking, her gaze flickered toward the training grounds outside.

Tharina felt her heart sink. She followed the distant laughter echoing across the territory, each step pulling her closer to something she didnt wish to see.

When she reached the open field, her blood seemed to burn.

Elodie stood upon the grass, smiling as she played with a young hound. The beast was dressed in the very clothes Tharina had prepared for her pup, the soft fabrics stretched across its body in cruel mockery.

The blanket her mother had sewn was no longer whole. It had been torn into strips, its blessing ruined. One piece was tied loosely around the hounds neck.

And the charm her mother had received from the sacred altar, meant to guard both her and her pup, was clenched between the beasts teeth, being ripped apart.

Elodie laughed softly, stroking the hound with delight.

"My Rina is so lovely. You look perfect in these."

"Such a good girl, Rina."

Rina?

That name struck deep into Tharinas heart. It had once belonged only to her, spoken in quiet nights by Malven, filled with warmth and closeness.

Now it sounded like a curse.

Her hands curled tightly at her sides, claws almost breaking through skin. Rage rose within her like a beast ready to break free.

Every insult, every silent wound she had endured within this pack, shattered all at once.

She stepped forward without hesitation and struck Elodie across the face. The sound echoed sharply through the territory.

"Tharina, have you lost your mind??"

Elodie cried out, clutching her cheek as tears fell instantly.

Malven rushed out from the alpha hall, drawn by the noise. His eyes went first to Elodie, trembling and in tears.

The moment she saw him, she ran into his arms.

"Alpha, the Luna struck me, and she even hurt Rina."

Malvens expression darkened as he turned toward Tharina.

"Tharina, what are you doing?"

Her voice came out rough, filled with anger and pain.

"You allowed her to touch what belongs to me."

His face turned cold.

"Those useless scraps? That hound wearing them gives them more value than they ever had."

Tharinas breath grew uneven. She pushed past him, rushing toward the hound, desperate to save the charm.

Before she could reach it, the beast growled low and lunged. Its fangs sank into her leg, tearing into flesh. Pain shot through her body. Its claws pressed against her as it tried to climb higher.

In that moment, she ignored the pain. Drawing on what strength she had left, she struck the beast away with force.

The hound yelped and rolled across the ground, curling into itself.

Blood flowed from her wound, warm and steady. At the same time, a sharp pain twisted in her lower abdomen, forcing her to bend forward.

"Tharina!"

Malven stepped toward her, clearly shaken. He had not expected her to fight back like that.

But before he could move closer, Elodie grabbed his arm, her voice filled with fear.

"Malven, Rina is bleeding. What if she dies?"

His movement stopped. His gaze shifted to the injured hound. He hesitated for a long moment, then steadied Elodie.

"Dont be afraid."

He lifted the hound into his arms, held Elodie close, and walked away from the field without looking back.

Tharina stood there, watching his retreating figure. She bit her lip until she tasted blood, forcing back the tears that threatened to fall. In her heart, she repeated the same truth again and again. He was not worth her pain.

With unsteady steps, she forced herself to move. She left the territory and called for a carriage, making her way to the healers den alone.

The moment she stepped inside, the strength she had been holding onto finally broke. Darkness swallowed her sight, and she collapsed.

When she opened her eyes again, a new day had come. Her wound had been treated, and she was told she could leave.

When Tharina stepped into the pack house, the air already felt wrong.

Elodie was seated close against Malven, almost leaning into him like a Luna beside her Alpha. She spoke with ease, giving orders to the servant wolves as if the authority already belonged to her.

Malven heard the door open and lifted his gaze. His eyes fell on Tharina, cold and distant, without a trace of the bond they once shared.

"From this day forward, Elodie will oversee this house. All of you will answer to her." His gaze didnt leave Tharina. "That includes you."

There was no warmth. Only command.

Because she had fought back against Elodies hound, he once again hid behind his so-called lost memory, stripping her of her place and handing it to another.

He expected her to break. To grow angry, to cry, to cling to him as she always had. He believed her heart still belonged to him.

But Tharina no longer wished to stand as Luna of this pack. And she no longer cared whether his memory was gone or not.

She said nothing. She turned and began walking toward the upper floor.

Elodie moved quickly, blocking her path. Her eyes shone with pride and quiet cruelty.

"There is still much I must learn about managing a pack house. I was hoping you would teach me, sister."

Before Tharina could answer, Elodie seized her wrist and pulled her toward the side counter.

Tharinas custom coffee device, brought from a far-off human city after months of waiting, was ruined beyond repair.

A spark of anger rose at once. She pulled her hand free.

"Who gave you the right to touch it?"

Elodie only smiled, slow and satisfied, lifting a cup filled with steaming liquid.

"You still think you are the Luna here? Malven stopped caring for you long ago. You have no place anymore."

Before the last word settled, she threw the hot drink straight at Tharina.

The burning liquid struck her neck and slipped beneath her clothes. Tharina flinched, her skin stinging.

The scent filled the air. Her body reacted at once. Her stomach turned violently, weakened by the life growing inside her. She covered her mouth and bent forward.

She could not stop it. Everything came out, spilling onto Elodie.

For a moment, Elodie froze. Then her scream broke through the hall like a sharp howl.

Malven rushed in at once. He saw Tharina nearly collapsed, her body trembling, her breath uneven, tears forced from her eyes without control.

Without thinking, he moved toward her, reaching out to steady her.

It was instinct. Something tied deep within the bond they once shared. For a heartbeat, he forgot the lie of his lost memory.

Elodie saw it clearly. Fear tightened her chest, and she cried louder.

"Malven, I only asked her how to use that thing, and she threw it at me. Then she did this to me."

Her voice shook as she continued.

"I know she hates me. If she wants me gone, I will leave. But why humiliate me like this?"

Malvens expression changed. The concern faded, replaced by cold displeasure.

"Tharina, you never learn. I told you, she stands as the mistress of this house now."

Tharina wiped the tears from her face. She lifted her head and looked straight at him, her voice sharp and steady.

"The mistress of this house? Tell me, whose name is bound to yours under the Moon Goddess, Malven? Hers?" She didnt look away. "Did you forget how to read the bond as well?"

Malven fell silent. He had never seen her like this before.

Elodie quickly stepped in again. "Malven, she is provoking you on purpose. She doesnt respect you at all."

That was enough. Anger took hold of him completely.

"Take her outside. She will kneel for one hour and reflect on her behavior."

Two guard wolves stepped forward at once, gripping Tharinas arms firmly.

She struggled, her eyes locked onto Malvens cold face. For a moment, another image rose in her mind.

The Malven from before.

The Alpha who once held her gently. Who stayed by her side through long nights when she was weak. Who noticed every small change in her.

The one who had once whispered softly, "Tharina, I will love you until my last breath."

That promise had not lasted long.

Pain and emptiness filled her as the guards forced her down onto her knees outside the great doors of the pack house.

The wind brushed against her skin as she knelt there, alone.

Then Tharina lifted her voice, clear and firm, carrying back into the hall.

"Malven Ashbourne. If you force me to kneel here, and your mother learns how you have treated your Luna, do you truly believe your little secretary will survive the night?"

Her voice was not loud, yet it carried weight.

Malvens eyes narrowed. His mother had always stood with Tharina. And within the laws of the pack, no outsider like Elodie had the right to step into the Alphas home, much less claim it.

The air grew still.

They faced each other across the distance, neither willing to yield.

The sky broke apart without warning, and heavy rain poured down across the pack territory.

Within moments, Tharina was drenched. Her clothes clung to her skin, cold as winter water. Still, she stood straight under the storm, her eyes fixed on Malven through the tall windows of the pack house. There was no pleading in her gaze. Not even a trace.

For a brief second, something stirred inside Malvens chest. A sharp, uneasy feeling.

A thought crossed his mind.

Did she truly want to leave him?

He pushed it away at once. That was impossible. She had always loved him too deeply.

His expression hardened.

"Tharina, do you think this is your place to act however you wish? Do not try to use my mother to threaten me."

He wrapped an arm around Elodie and turned away, leading her upstairs without another glance, leaving Tharina alone beneath the rain.

The storm grew stronger. Each drop struck her like a blow.

The guards stepped forward, ready to force her down. Tharina lifted her head and looked at them, her gaze sharp enough to cut.

"You know what Mrs. Ashbourne can do. If I kneel today, do you believe you will still be alive tomorrow?"

Their faces turned pale. They looked at each other, fear clear in their eyes. In the end, they stepped back and released her.

Tharina walked back inside, her steps unsteady. A deep pain pulled at her lower abdomen with every movement.

She reached the upper floor. Malvens door was not fully closed. Through the small opening, she saw something that made her world tilt.

Malven was close to Elodie on the bed. Their bodies pressed together, their movements leaving no doubt about what was happening.

Elodie lifted her head. Through the narrow gap, her eyes met Tharinas.

A slow smile appeared on her lips, filled with pride and mockery. Then she wrapped her arms around Malven and let out a soft, exaggerated sound.

Tharina felt something rise in her throat. A sharp, bitter taste filled her mouth. She covered her lips quickly, barely holding it back.

She could not stay. She turned and ran to her own room.

The moment the door closed, blood spilled into her hand. Bright red against her pale skin.

Her strength gave out. She slid down to the floor, still soaked from the rain. Cold spread through her body while pain tightened around her stomach. Her vision slowly blurred.

Time passed without shape. The cold sank deeper.

With trembling hands, she reached for her crystal communicator and called Malven. Once. Twice. Again and again.

No answer.

She forced herself to crawl out of the room. From behind his door, the sounds continued, rising and falling without pause.

When she opened her eyes again, she was lying in a healers bed. A healer stood beside her, his face serious.

"Luna, your fever reached a dangerous level. The rain and your emotional state have made your condition unstable. Your pregnancy is at risk. You must avoid any further distress, or we may not be able to protect the pup."

Tharina stared upward and gave a faint nod.

Soon after, noise filled the hallway. Healers rushed past her room in a hurry.

Their voices carried through the air.

"Lady Wildmoor has been brought in. Something happened in the Alphas chamber. He called every healer to attend to her."

"And look at the Luna of Ashbourne Pack. She is here alone, burning with fever, carrying a pup, yet no one stays with her. Alphas memory loss seems very selective."

"In the end, the one without love is the outsider. Lady Wildmoor is the one the Alpha truly cares for now."

Each word struck clearly, leaving no room to escape.

Tharina turned her head toward the window. The rain outside had already stopped. Her eyes held nothing.

In the days that followed, Malven remained by Elodies side, caring for her without rest.

He never once knew that his own mate had been lying in the healers hall as well.

On the third day, Tharina left the healers hall despite the healers trying to stop her. She still had a final trial to attend.

This was something she had prepared for her unborn pup. It was the path she would use to build a future for both of them.

Behind the stage of the grand hall, she crossed paths with Elodie Wildmoor.

Elodie walked past her slowly, her eyes filled with victory.

"Tharina, you didnt expect to see me here, right? It doesnt matter that you grew up with him. It doesnt matter that you stayed by his side when he was wounded. In the end, you lost everything. His body, his heart, and your place as Luna. All of it belongs to me now."

She paused, her smile widening.

"And today, I will take the last thing you have left."

The final trial followed a random order. Elodie was called before Tharina.

She stepped onto the stage and revealed her work. The moment Tharina saw it, her blood turned cold.

The pieces Elodie presented were the Midnight Bloodstone series.

Elodie held the speaking stone and calmly explained every idea and meaning behind the designs. Every word was taken from the thoughts Tharina had spent countless nights shaping under the moon.

Among the crowd, Malven sat in the front, within the honored seats. Pride showed clearly on his face.

"Elodie has true talent," he said.

The judges nodded, their voices filled with approval.

Tharina felt her mind go empty. She never thought Malven would take something she had created with her own hands and give it to another.

Her name was called several times before she finally stepped forward.

She walked onto the stage, took a slow breath, and faced the crowd. Her voice was steady.

"Honored judges, greetings. I am Tharina Steelhowl. The Midnight Bloodstone collection belongs to me. What Lady Elodie Wildmoor has shown is a direct copy of my work."

The hall broke into noise the moment she finished speaking.

The judges looked at one another, unsure. Their eyes moved toward Malven, waiting for his decision.

Malven rose slowly. His gaze fell on Tharina, cold and sharp.

"Tharina, what are you doing?"

He looked at her with clear displeasure.

"Look at yourself. Causing a scene in front of everyone. You still call yourself a Luna? This is shameful."

Tharina swallowed the pain rising within her.

"I am causing a scene? You took the work I created through endless nights and handed it to your chosen one. And I am the one at fault?"

Malvens face didnt change.

"Is your heart so narrow? Just because you are bound to me, no other woman can stand beside me? When did you become like this?"

Tharina let out a laugh.

"Who changed, Malven? You or me?"

"In your eyes, I have no value. Of course. You cannot even remember what you once promised."

Her voice lowered slightly.

"You said you would love me until your last day. It seems that day came sooner than I thought."

She turned to Elodie, who stood there with satisfaction clear in her eyes. A faint smile touched Tharinas lips.

Then, before anyone could react, she walked to the fire station at the side, took the extinguisher, and struck it down onto the display.

The fake pieces shattered across the floor.

Elodie screamed as soon as she understood what had happened. Her supporters rushed forward, shouting and cursing at Tharina.

The hall fell into chaos. Tharina was surrounded and pushed to the ground.

Malvens first reaction was to pull Elodie close and lead her away from the crowd.

Tharina curled on the floor, both hands pressed over her lower abdomen as objects struck her body. Pain spread through her, but she didnt move her hands.

Only when the guards forced the crowd back was she pulled away. Her hair was a mess, her clothes ruined, and a thin line of blood ran from her forehead.

Reporters raised their recording devices, capturing every moment. Voices filled the air with mockery and harsh words.

Tharina seemed not to hear any of it. She simply stood and walked forward, step by step, toward the exit without stopping.

Tharina had just stepped beyond the gates when a message from Jolene reached her.

[Tomorrow is your grandfathers birthday gathering. I hope you will come one last time. I also wish to give you the separation papers myself.]

Tharina looked at the message for a long time before replying with a single word.

[Okay.]

The next morning, she arrived early at the Ashbourne estate, a grand pack residence built for generations of Alphas. She planned to offer her respect and leave quietly.

She didnt expect Malven to arrive with Elodie by his side.

The courtyard fell into noise at once. Pack members turned to one another, whispering in shock.

Jolenes face lost all color.

"Who allowed you to bring her here? Guards, remove her from this house!"

Malven stepped forward at once, placing himself in front of Elodie.

"Let anyone try."

His gaze swept across the crowd, sharp and commanding.

"Elodie carries my blood. A true heir of the Ashbourne line. I brought her here so all of you will acknowledge it."

The teacup slipped from Tharinas hand. It broke against the stone floor, warm tea spilling over her feet. She felt nothing.

Malvens face remained hard as he pulled out a folded report.

"Tharina cannot bear a pup. The pup Elodie carries is the only heir this family has."

Jolene staggered back, grabbing the report with shaking hands. Her face turned pale as she read. Around them, voices rose, filled with shock and disbelief.

Tharina steadied herself and stepped forward, her eyes fixed on Malven.

"Where did you get this?"

Malvens voice held anger.

"If Elodie had not discovered it, would you have hidden this truth forever? Let the Ashbourne bloodline end?"

A bitter laugh left Tharinas lips, but she said nothing more.

Elodie turned toward her, her eyes wet with tears.

"I know I am not worthy of standing here. I know I cannot compare to you. But this pup has done nothing wrong. I only wish to keep it."

Jolenes voice cut through the air, strong and cold.

"This family will never accept that pup, and it will never accept you!"

She moved to stand beside Tharina, firm and unyielding.

"Anyone who dares bring that woman into this house will answer to me first!"

Malven raised his voice again. "Mother, Elodie carries a son."

The entire courtyard fell silent.

"I will ensure she gives birth safely. He is my only heir. As for you, Tharina, you will remain as the Luna of this pack. After the pup is born, he will be placed under your care. That should be enough."

Let Elodie bear the heir. Keep Tharina as Luna to protect the familys name.

Tharina let out a hollow laugh.

Enough?

"What a perfect plan, Alpha Ashbourne. You truly wish to keep everything for yourself."

Across the courtyard, Eldrath Ashbourne heard every word. His body trembled as he clutched his chest and sank into his seat.

Tharina looked at the scene before her, a twisted display she no longer wished to be part of. She took a slow breath, forcing her emotions down, then turned to Jolene and Eldrath. She bowed deeply.

"The affairs of the Ashbourne Pack have nothing to do with me anymore."

She turned and began to walk away.

"Wait. Please wait."

Elodie rushed after her and grabbed her arm. Tears ran down her face, her voice trembling.

"Please, I beg you. Let me keep this pup. I am begging you."

"Let go of my hand."

Tharina pulled her arm, trying to free herself. But Elodie only held tighter. She leaned close, her voice dropping so only Tharina could hear.

"Tharina Steelhowl. I never thought he would still keep you as Luna."

The words struck deep. In the next moment, the grip on Tharinas arm was gone.

Elodie suddenly fell backward. Her body hit the stone steps with a heavy sound, and a sharp cry echoed through the courtyard.

"Ahh!"

"Elodie!"

Malven rushed forward, seeing her lying on the steps, both hands clutching her stomach, her face pale.

"Malven... she pushed me. My stomach... it hurts... the pup... my pup..."

A deep red stain slowly spread across the hem of Elodies dress.

Malvens eyes turned wild. In the next instant, he rushed forward and seized Tharina by the throat, his voice rough like a furious wolf.

"You cruel woman! You cannot bear a pup, so you chose to destroy mine? How can you be this heartless?"

His grip tightened, cutting off her breath. Tharina struggled, her hands clawing at his wrist. She tried to speak, to tell him she had done nothing, but no sound came out.

Then he let go, not with care, but with force.

Her body was thrown back. She hit the ground hard. Without thinking, she curled inward, her arms wrapping around her stomach before the pain could even reach her mind.

Malven had already turned away. He lifted Elodie into his arms and rushed toward the door, his voice shaking.

"Dont be afraid. I will take you to the healer. The pup will be safe."

Jolene hurried after them. When she saw Tharina lying on the ground, pale and weak, tears filled her eyes.

"Tharina, I am so sorry."

Tharina pressed her hand against the wall and slowly forced herself to stand. A faint smile appeared on her lips.

"I am sorry I ruined grandfathers celebration."

Jolenes eyes were red as she took out a document and placed it into Tharinas hand.

"From today onward, you are no longer Luna of Ashbourne Pack. You are my own daughter. That will never change."

Tharina felt her throat tighten. She gave a small nod, then turned and walked away.

She had not gone far when several guards dressed in black surrounded her and pushed her into a waiting car.

The car sped across the territory and stopped at the healers hall.

Inside a private chamber, Elodie lay resting, tears still on her face. The moment Tharina was brought in, her crying grew louder.

Malven stood from the bedside and walked toward Tharina. He looked down at her, his gaze cold and merciless.

"The pup is gone. Kneel and beg for forgiveness."

A guard forced her down. Her knees struck the hard floor with force, pain shooting through her body.

Still, she lifted her head.

"I didnt do it. Why should I beg?"

Anger twisted Malvens face.

He had once told her no one would replace her. That the pup would be given to her to raise, and Elodie would be sent away after.

Then why would she destroy his pup?

He took out his crystal communicator and made a call.

"The contract with the Steelhowl Pack, cancel it at once. End everything immediately."

He ended the call and looked at her again.

"You refuse to admit your fault? Then by morning, your family will fall. Your father barely survived before. This time, he will not."

Tharina felt her heart sink. She knew he could do it. With a single command, he could bring down everything her family had built.

Her father was no longer strong. He could not survive another blow. She could not let them suffer because of her.

The pain in her lower body grew stronger, sharp and twisting. She bit her lip until she tasted blood. Only then did she lower her head.

"I am sorry."

Behind her tears, Elodies lips curved into a small, satisfied smile.

"Leave."

Malvens voice held no warmth at all.

Tharina rose slowly. Each step was painful, her legs trembling, but she didnt turn back.

Behind her, Malvens voice softened as he spoke to Elodie, "Dont worry. I am here with you."

The doors opened, and cold night air rushed toward her. Tharina placed her hand gently over her stomach. Her fingers felt cold through the cloth. She lowered her head and spoke softly.

"It is alright, my dear. Mother will take you away from here. We will not return."

She didnt go back to the pack house. There was nothing there for her anymore.

She drove straight to the airfield and bought a single ticket for the next flight leaving the land. Then she opened her crystal communicator and sent a file to a reporter.

"Release this after three days. Place it where all can see."

As the plane rose into the sky, Tharina looked out at the clouds below. Her eyes were calm, filled with certainty.

Malven Ashbourne this is the end. I loved you for many years. Let this be my final gift.

After this, a new path begins.