Old Friends' Discussion

The grand hall buzzed with vibrant energy; the air was alive with warmth, the savory aroma of roasted meats, and the cheerful din of laughter and conversation. Stone walls adorned with scenes of triumphant hunts and battles, their rich colors enhanced by the flickering candlelight.

Alpha Lucas Rathord of the BloodMoon pack, his presence commanding yet somehow comforting, settled into his place at the head of the long table. The rich, dark wood gleamed under the soft candlelight, reflecting the warmth in his deep hazel eyes as he offered a hearty smile to his old friend, Alpha Richard, who settled beside him with a grunt of satisfaction.

Luna Evelyn and Luna Kim, their initial shyness quickly melting away, instantly found a common ground.

Their conversation, a bright counterpoint to the general merriment, flowed effortlessly as if they were long-lost sisters, their laughter light and melodic as they shared a playful banter over a steaming bowl of chicken stew, fragrant and delicious.

The warriors, their bodies taut with the restrained energy of their kind, mingled easily with the pack members.

The clinking of glasses, the hearty guffaws, and the animated storytelling painted a lively scene. Stories of daring hunts and fierce battles filled the air, punctuated by bursts of laughter and shared memories.

The air itself crackled with excitement, the shared bonds of kinship almost tangible and warm.

Sebastian found his place beside Williams, his face etched with a quiet contentment, their easy banter a testament to a lifelong friendship. Their shared smiles and occasional playful jabs spoke of trust and deep understanding.

But a few places away, Amelia sat rigidly, her shoulders tight, her hands clasped tightly in her lap. Her usual vivacious spirit seemed subdued; a forced smile barely concealing the turmoil churning within her. A stray lock of her auburn hair framed her pale and strained face as she struggled to maintain her composure, a stark contrast to the carefree revelry around her.

She had been stealing glances at Sebastian since his arrival, her cheeks a constant shade of pink.

Williams smirked as he caught her staring. "You might as well say hello, Amelia. You've been eyeing him like he's a meal."

Amelia's head snapped up, eyes wide. "I...I was not!"

Sebastian chuckled, his hazy eyes amused. "It's good to see you again, Amelia."

She swallowed hard, nodding. "Y-you too, Sebastian."

Williams rolled his eyes. "Smooth."

Laughter erupted around the table as the two young men resumed their conversation, catching up as if no time had passed.

Their fathers, mirroring them, were deep in discussion, their words interwoven with hearty chuckles.

As breakfast continued, the joyous atmosphere spread. Conversations flowed freely, bonds were strengthened, and the pack members indulged in the morning feast.

When dessert was finally served, the Rathords were visibly impressed. The craftsmanship was impeccable, and the taste was nothing short of divine.

Lucas took a bite of his pie and let out a dramatic sigh. "Richard, I think I'm officially envious. With food like this, I don't know how you get anything done. I'd just sit here all day eating."

Alpha Richard smirked, leaning back in his chair. "It's a blessing and a curse, my friend. I've had to extend my training hours to keep the weight off."

Lucas let out a hearty laugh. "Well, that explains it! I was going to ask when you started looking so... well-fed."

The table burst into laughter, and Richard shook his head. "Keep talking, Lucas. You'll see what's on your plate at my training grounds tomorrow."

Lucas wiped a tear from his eye, still grinning. "Fair enough, old friend. But I'll need another serving of this pie before that happens."

The meal ended in a flurry of laughter and satisfied sighs. Alpha Richard of the Grey Shadow pack rose gracefully, gesturing towards the West Wing. "This way, my friends. Your quarters are prepared." He led the way through a long corridor, its walls lined with scenes of the pack's history, fierce wolves battling beasts, and solemn ceremonies beneath a full moon.

The stone floor, polished smooth by years of use, reflected the chandelier, and light bulbs. They turned a corner, and the West Wing opened before them; a section of the pack house clearly set apart with its elegant architecture. The heavy oak doors, adorned with carvings of wolf heads, stood open before them, revealing a spacious suite with large windows that gave an amazing view of the pack.

The two Alphas, Lucas and Richard, sought the balcony. It was reached by a flight of winding stairs made of dark, richly stained wood. The cool morning air, carrying the crisp scent of pine and damp earth, kissed their faces as they stepped out.

The balcony itself was broad, wide enough to hold several people comfortably. The dwarf railings provided a secure barrier overlooking the ground view of the pack house. The forest, stretching as far as the eye could see, was a sea of deep green.

In their hands, they held crystal wine glasses filled with a rich, ruby-red wine. They settled into comfortable armchairs. As they sat back, the rising sun cast long shadows across the courtyard below, painting the scene in warm hues of gold and amber. The air was still cool, but the sun's warmth was steadily increasing, promising a beautiful day.

Lucas sighed, swirling his drink. "I wish we could sit here and reminisce about old times, but things are getting out of hand, Richard."

Richard's expression turned serious. "The rogues?"

Lucas nodded. "Their numbers are growing. They're no longer just scattered groups, there's a system to their attacks. Several packs have already fallen, and they show no mercy. Women, children... none are spared."

Richard's jaw clenched. "We knew they were a problem, but this... this is war."

"Exactly. Many packs have petitioned the King for help. He had no choice but to turn to Alpha Reindel of the Silver Moon Pack."

At the mention of Reindel, Richard let out a low whistle. "That boy... He was a firecracker when his father was alive. Never thought he'd turn into the monster they say he is now."

Lucas leaned forward. "You should've seen him in battle, Richard. He forced the rogues into retreat in a single confrontation. Ruthless. Efficient. They call him the Devil Alpha now, some even call him the Beast."

Richard exhaled slowly. "I suppose losing Alpha Ken changed everything for him."

Lucas nodded. "It did. His pack isn't the same. No warmth, no softness. They live for battle. The only light left in that place is Luna Mirabel, Ken's mate. Without her, I doubt they'd have a shred of humanity left."

Richard swirled his wine, his thoughts heavy. "If Reindel is leading the charge against the rogues, then we might just stand a chance. But at what cost?"

Lucas met his gaze. "That, my friend, is the real question."

The two sat in silence for a moment, the weight of the conversation lingering in the air.

The sun had risen higher now, casting golden light over the treetops, but despite its warmth, the world beyond their balcony had never felt colder.