Twin Moon

The night was alive with a strange energy, the kind that made the hairs on the back of a wolf's neck rise. The full moon hung low and swollen in the sky, casting an eerie silver glow over the Lupine Hollow pack's stronghold. Deep in the forest, nestled among ancient trees, the Alpha's den echoed with cries-not of war, but of birth.

Alpha Darius paced the stone floor outside the birthing chamber, his fists clenched and jaw tight. He was a formidable figure-broad-shouldered, with scars etched into his tanned skin, each a testament to battles fought for the pack's survival. But now, his usual stoic demeanor faltered. Inside, his mate, Selene, labored to bring their pups into the world.

"Alpha," said Beta Corwin, stepping forward. The younger wolf hesitated before continuing. "The elder's words... Do you think it's true?"

Darius turned his piercing amber gaze on him. "The prophecy?" He didn't need to elaborate; everyone in the pack had heard the whispers. The old crone who served as the pack's seer had spoken of twins-born under a Hunter's Moon, one destined for greatness, the other for destruction.

"Prophecies are riddles wrapped in fear," Darius growled. "My pups will be strong. I'll see to that."

As if in answer, a piercing wail split the air, followed by a softer cry. Darius's heart surged with pride and relief as Corwin opened the door.

Inside, the room smelled of sweat, blood, and the sharp tang of herbs. Selene lay on the bed, her dark hair plastered to her pale face, but her eyes were bright with joy. Beside her, the midwife swaddled two tiny bundles, one in a blue cloth, the other in white.

"Twins," the midwife announced, her voice trembling. "A boy and a girl."

Darius stepped closer, his eyes softening as he looked down at his children. The boy squirmed in his blanket, letting out a defiant cry, while the girl lay silent, her golden eyes wide and unblinking.

"They're perfect," Selene whispered, her voice hoarse but full of love.

But before Darius could respond, the door creaked open, and Elder Varek entered. The Alpha's younger brother moved with the elegance of a predator, his long black coat brushing the ground. His silver hair gleamed under the moonlight streaming through the window.

"Well, well," Varek drawled, his voice like velvet laced with steel. "The future of our pack, born on a night of power."

Darius tensed. Though Varek was his blood, there was something about his brother that always set his instincts on edge. "What do you want, Varek?"

"I came to see my niece and nephew," Varek said, his lips curling into a smile that didn't reach his eyes. He leaned over the cradle, his gaze lingering on the girl.

"She's... quiet," he said softly.

"She's observing," Selene said, her tone sharp. "She's strong, like her brother."

Varek straightened, his smile hardening. "Strong, yes. But have you considered what the elder said? Twins born under a Hunter's Moon. The boy destined to be the strongest Alpha and the girl... destined to bring ruin."

"Enough," Darius snapped, his voice echoing through the chamber. "You dare bring such nonsense into this room? These are my children. I'll hear no more of your poison."