Chapter 36

The healing hall was quiet, the scent of herbs lingering in the air as Lyra sat across from Maelis. The elder wolf regarded her with a calm but piercing gaze, her hands folded neatly in her lap. Lyra had told her everything—the warmth she felt, the way her wolf seemed more restless than usual, and the persistent tug deep within her that refused to be ignored.

Maelis listened without interruption, her silver braid gleaming faintly in the sunlight that filtered through the windows. When Lyra finally fell silent, the elder's lips curved into a small, knowing smile.

"You already know what this is, don't you?" Maelis asked gently.

Lyra blinked, her chest tightening. "I... I'm not sure," she admitted, though her heart whispered a truth she hadn't dared to speak aloud.

Maelis reached for Lyra's hand, her touch warm and reassuring. "The Moon Blessed are deeply connected to the life around them," she said. "It's not uncommon for that connection to manifest in ways that are... unexpected. Tell me, Lyra—has the bond between you and Kaelen felt stronger lately?"

Lyra nodded slowly, her throat tight. "It has," she said softly. "Like it's been growing, weaving through everything."

Maelis's smile deepened, her eyes twinkling with a warmth that eased some of Lyra's unease. "You're carrying new life, child," she said. "The moon's energy flows through you, nurturing not just the pack but the life you've created with your mate."

The words settled over Lyra like a heavy but comforting blanket. She placed a hand over her abdomen, her heart racing as the truth sank in. She was pregnant—with Kaelen's child. The thought filled her with equal parts wonder and trepidation. She had fought so hard to find her place in the world, and now, that world was expanding in ways she hadn't anticipated.

"But how can I..." Lyra trailed off, her thoughts swirling. "How can I lead the pack, carry this responsibility, and bring new life into the world?"

Maelis's grip on her hand tightened, her voice firm but kind. "You've already proven your strength, Lyra. This is not a burden—it's a gift. You are not alone in this, and neither is the child you carry. The pack will stand by you, and so will Kaelen."

When Lyra returned to her quarters that evening, Kaelen was waiting for her. He had sensed her unease when she left that morning, but he hadn't pressed her for answers. Now, as she entered the room, her expression a mixture of emotions he couldn't quite decipher, he stepped forward to meet her.

"Lyra," he said, his voice filled with concern. "What did Maelis say?"

She took a deep breath, her hands trembling slightly as she reached for his. "Kaelen," she began, her voice soft. "We're going to be parents."

The words hung in the air for a moment, and Kaelen's silver eyes widened as they searched hers. Slowly, a smile spread across his face—warm, genuine, and filled with a joy that Lyra hadn't expected.

"Lyra," he said again, his voice barely a whisper. "Are you sure?"

She nodded, her lips curving into a small but steady smile. "Yes. I can feel it."

Kaelen pulled her into his arms, his embrace fierce and protective. "This is incredible," he said, his voice filled with awe. "You're incredible."

Tears pricked at the corners of Lyra's eyes as she leaned into him, the bond between them thrumming with newfound intensity. For the first time since she had discovered her connection to the moon, she felt truly whole. This wasn't just her journey anymore—it was theirs.