Embers of Animosity 

Gabriel

Leaving the moonlit summit with my bags packed wasn't an outcome I ever envisioned. As the Alpha of my pack for three years, I've always valued inclusion and cooperation.

Yet here I am, forced to depart due to the ambush on some of my patrollers. Panic courses through me as I exit the room, duffle bag in tow.

As I make my way to the car, I hear him – Elijah is the first to stop. "Someone's back for round two," he exclaims, causing anxiety to bubble up inside me.

I direct my glare towards Lucas, who smirks in response. "What did you just say?" My patience is wearing thin, but it seems he's enjoying himself.

Under normal circumstances, I'd ignore Blackwood's taunts. However, today is different – between our packs simmers a fiery animosity that spans generations, and his provocation ignites it. This isn't the time for distractions.

Lucas' smirk grows wider as he continues to goad me. "Struck a nerve, didn't I, Gabriel? Just an observation. You were rather close to me last night."

My hands ball into fists as memories from our forbidden encounter fuel my rage. "Don't push your luck, Blackwood. I've got more important problems than you and your nonsense."

Elijah steps forward with a concerned and puzzled expression. "What's happening?"

Despite his head swirling with questions, all he likely knows is what Blackwood said about our fight – no one would suspect more. "Blackwood's being his usual obnoxious self – ignore him."

I stroll away with confidence masking my turmoil. Blackwood won't derail me; we both want last night kept secret since our packs share mutual animosity.

However, just as I'm about to leave, he speaks again – "Heard about the attack on your pack." The smirk remains etched on his face as he seizes yet another chance to torment me.

"Yeah, I heard about it," he sneers with disdain. "Seems like your pack is even weaker than I thought. How's it feel to be the Alpha of such a pitiful bunch?"

My jaw clenches, and I inhale deeply, battling to maintain my composure. Lucas is striving to get under my skin, pushing me to react impulsively—but I refuse to give in.

"You haven't the slightest clue about my pack," I assert, maintaining a steady and poised tone. "We may encounter obstacles, but we remain united, standing side by side. We aren't a pack founded on fear and brutality like yours."

Lucas's eyes narrow as his mask of amusement momentarily cracks. "You think you're superior, Gabriel. But listen closely; I'll prove to you and the rest that the Crescent Moon Pack is nothing more than an abject sham."

Elijah moves nearer, his gaze stern and cautionary. "Enough, Lucas. We have urgent matters to address."

Lucas scoffs, his laugh laced with scorn. "Indeed, Elijah. I wouldn't want to detain Gabriel from attending to his floundering pack any longer."

Suppressing the urge to confront him head-on and unleash my fury upon him, I refocus on our mission—protecting my pack, unearthing those behind the ambush, and safeguarding our continued existence.

As I depart, Lucas's jeers echo in my ears; however, I won't let his words diminish my determination. My resolve stands firm: I will show him his error, and ensure the Crescent Moon Pack triumphs through every tribulation.

"You must stop feeding into his taunts; he revels in provoking you," Elijah advises.

"Fuck, I know that," I reply bitterly. "He is the most insufferable piece of shit i have ever encountered."

Elijah nods empathetically. "It's tough to ignore him, especially when he strikes so close to home. But we can't allow him to divert us from our mandate. We must find those behind the ambush and guarantee our pack's safety."

Inhaling deeply once more, I strive to quell my inner emotional whirlwind. Elijah speaks the truth—I can't let Lucas distract me. Our pack's welfare hinges on my focus and clear-headed judgment.

"You're right," I concede, my voice brimming with resolve. "We have a mission to accomplish, and I won't let Lucas or anyone else obstruct us. We'll uncover the mastermind behind this assault and ensure they face the consequences."

Elijah offers a comforting nod, his faith in me unwavering. "That's the attitude, Gabriel. We're united in this, and I trust our pack's might."

With rekindled resolve, I stand taller and proceed towards the car. The burden of my Alpha duties feels more immense than ever, but I refuse to buckle under it. My pack relies on me, and I won't disappoint them.

As we head back to our territory, my mind races with thoughts of tactics, inquiries, and safeguarding our home. The menace of the Shadow Claw Pack persists, and I know we'll meet them again. However, this time, I'll be prepared. I'll demonstrate to Lucas and his pack that despite the obstacles we face, we will conquer them - united and stronger than before.

The road extends before us, guiding us back to our pack's domain. Glancing at Elijah, a wave of determination and optimism floods my heart. Side by side, we'll confront whatever challenges lie ahead and emerge victorious. The Crescent Moon Pack will soar above the shadows, displaying our strength and tenacity against any disbelievers.