XIV

Selene was impressed with their forms. The grounds were very large and running around them 3 times was no joke. Still, no one broke a sweat. They're the strongest warriors, after all. Her mind wondered to Soren, remembering their time together, training. He was very strict with her, she had to learn a lot of fighting styles and moves, to be prepared in the face of any enemy. Sure, she had her magic, but it could do so much.

The first weapon she skilled was the short, silver knife, liking its delicacy, yet the death it could inflict if used properly. Then, she took a liking in the bow Soren would use to hunt for the winters and he showed her how to make one for herself. Since then, it was her weapon of choice. It allowed her to keep a distance from the target and move gracefully and silently through the trees. If needed, she would climb one and move from branch to branch. It was sometimes better to have the height advantage.

When the laps were done, they found themselves at the training grounds again. Selene was impressed there were so many women in the Nightshades, satisfied that there were no discriminations done. They must be strong.

„Ok, let's pair up and begin. Selene, you'll be with Genevieve."

She moved closer to her. Standing face to face, they all started fighting. It was loud and dirty. Gen put a step forward, ready to throw a punch at her, but she avoided it in a blink of an eye. „What?" Gen was sure she would at least graze her. Selene smirked.

„Come on" Gen advanced, with the intention of faking a left jab at her face, but hit her ribs with the left instead. Selene saw the slight movement of her eyes to her abdomen and avoided her again. After several attempts, Genevieve was frustrated. „Ahh, Troy! Come here a minute." The gamma jogged to their spot.

„What is it, buttface?"

„Stop calling me that, moron! I've been trying every move and she's impossible to touch." At her shouts, some of the warriors stopped to look at the commotion. Maximus was intrigued.

„Ok, fine, if you give up so easily, I'll take a turn."

Troy took an offensive stance, replacing Gen. Selene showed him a sweet smile. One was a burly fighter, with bulging biceps. One was lean and agile, with a calm expression. Troy charged forward, throwing a wild punch at Selene's head. But she was too quick, ducking under the blow and delivering a swift counterpunch that landed squarely on his ribs. He grunted in pain, but he didn't give up. He swung again, this time aiming for her face. But once again, Selene was too fast, sidestepping the attack and delivering a blow to his kidney. Frustrated, Troy continued to swing wildly, but no matter how hard he tried, he couldn't land a punch on her. Meanwhile, she continued to move gracefully around the ring, dodging and weaving with ease, and landing crisp, precise blows on him whenever the opportunity presented itself. As time ticked by, it became clear to everyone that Selene was in control. The Gamma was tiring himself, his swings becoming slower and more desperate, while she remained calm and focused, waiting for the chance to strike. Finally, Selene saw her opening. With lightning-fast reflexes, she darted in and landed a devastating uppercut that sent Troy crashing to the ground.

No one was expecting this outcome. For one to defeat the gamma was unheard off, but a woman who has lived in the forest all her life? He was the most skilled fighter besides the King and didn't hold back even though she is his Luna. He needed to know how good she was, so he would fill in the blanks she had. But there were none. She didn't even break a sweat. It was as if she was reading his mind, knowing all his next moves beforehand. Maximus was struck with the realization that yet again, she proved to be extraordinary. This woman was like no other. To him, she was already the most precious thing.

Selene stepped forward and showed Troy her hand, helping him get up. „You are a true Queen, Selene. It is the outmost privilage to be your guardian." He took a small bow of his head.

„Guardian?" Selene looked at Maximus.

„Yes, moon. The gamma not only is the first warrior and in charge of training, but usually, he has a connection with the Luna of the pack. He has the need to protect you."

„Oh." She was silent for a minute, everyone expecting her response. Denying a gamma his guardian duty was like saying you don't trust his skills. It was a demotion and looked-down upon. Taking his hand, she got out her silver knife. Everyone was confused at her actions. She slid her own palm, blood pouring. She then slid Troy's hand too and bound the slit hands together. Selene closed her eyes and started whispering.

The winds blew and the a quite murmur could be heard. It was like the trees were talking in a slow, hushed unknown language. Their intertwined hands began to emanate a silver glow. Suddenly, all went still and she opened her eyes. „What did you do?" Selene showed him a kind smile.

„I've tied our lives to one another. You can not die while I live. The magic of the moon is a part of you now." You could not hear a sound. All faces were looking at her, especially Troy, who didn't know what to say. Her magic was unheard of. They were standing in the presence of a goddess and she was to be their Luna, their Queen. What a gift. Troy's eye wettened and he hugged Selene. There were no words he could say to express what he felt. Their connection was much stronger. Troy heard a growl and let her go.

Maximus went to her and wiscked her around, moving to the pack house. „I am so grateful to have you, moon. You are a blessing." At his confession, Selene kissed the corner of his mouth deeply. Maximus was stood frozen at her touch and gesture. They looked at each other in a loving manner, walking again.

„Oh, I almost forgot. You have to teach me those moves you made on Troy, moon. I can't have you beat my ass too." She chuckled and nodded her head.