RISE, LUNA OF ASHES

MOON HADN

t. The rot beneath the gold. The sickness hidden in silence. Too many turned their heads when she passed. Too many smiled too quickly. Too tightly. Wolves she didn't recognize wore the Crescent Moon crest, newcomers who had not earned their place, who looked at her with curiosity rather than respect. Their scent was diff

OLD

ina replied coolly, eyes fixed on the horizon. "Apparently, the pack throws lavish parties for traitors." He didn't laugh. Orren shifted uncomfortably, clutching the staff carved with his family sigil. "We didn't know what they were planning," he said. "No?" She turned to him, steps slow, deliberate. "Then tell me, Elder... what did you think would happen when you let him mark another? When you helped bury the truth about me?" Orren's mouth tightened. His gaze dropped to the ground. "It wasn't my decision to ma

CRET CO

antments. The guards never saw her. Inside, candlelight flickered across ancient scrolls and sealed documents. A library of power and corruption. Gina sifted through the shelves until something pulsed beneath her fingers. A sealed record in Luna forged wax. The crest bore the mark of the High Council and a blood colored ribbon. She cracked the seal. Inside, written in fine ink and cruelty, was a decree: "In agreement of the Crescent Moon Council, the rightful Luna shall

TO THE

em like an executioner laying down a blade. "Interesting reading," she said, voice soft, sharp. "Do let me know if your memories need refreshing." And then she smiled. Only her lips moved. No warmth reached her eyes. "It's a beautiful night for a reckoning, isn't it?" The Elders squirmed in silence. Good. Let it fester. Let it grow. Flash of the Past Sleep came as a mercy that night. But dreams brought no rest. Her mind wandered to her childhood garden, herbs drying on sun warmed stones, her mo