Dark Moon Rising

Chapter Twenty-Three: Try

Crypta's Point of View

I find it interesting how much I long for someone's presence, even if I don't know them well. I had only met Eyrx twice, but he made a lasting impression. It wasn't just curiosity or attraction – I yearned for the ease I felt with him before I ruined things. This is yet another instance where my pride and stubbornness have led to complications in my life.

Feeling guilty about altering Adrian's memories was causing chaos. It seemed like a simple solution to a significant issue, but I acted again without consideration. It was another impulsive decision, and I had only myself to hold accountable.

I left early in the morning again to go for a hike in the forest. Or at least that is what I told Rogue and Adrian when they invited me to hang out with them. Adrian had offered to come with me, but I'd turned him down. We had opened Pandora's box by giving in to our desires for casual s*x. It was so much more than that, but I was the only one who remembered.

I was distracted, troubled, and seriously off my game. I was grateful right now that Aralia had someone or something watching over me when I was out here on my own, even if it wasn't Eyrx. She'd pulled me aside, asking me to give her son some space and that our last interaction had left him somewhat uncomfortable. That was an awkward conversation I never wanted to have or repeat ever again.

I took out my burner phone and called Selene. I was hesitant to reach out to her after everything that had happened, especially since she had warned me about it, and I didn't listen. Having this conversation would be challenging because of my foolishness, but I needed her help because this situation didn't just affect me. Argus and I had worked too hard to let this fail because I couldn't focus.

"Selene? Can we meet?" I inquired, my voice trembling.

"I'll be right there, Seraphina. Please have a seat," Selene remarked, disappointment evident in her tone.

I felt like a rebellious child anticipating a scolding as I carefully placed my secret burner phone in the hidden compartment of my bag and settled onto the log in the clearing. In a matter of seconds, she emerged, taking a seat on the log opposite me, wearing a stern expression.

"I'm sorry," I whispered. "I screwed up."

The Moon Goddess just sighed and nodded.

"There is much you are not yet privy to, Seraphina. I need you to trust me. When I urge you not to do something, please take heed. There is no way to undo the damage done; you can only move forward from this," Selene said.

"Will I lose Adrian's friendship?" I asked.

"Only Adrian can answer that," Selene responded.

"Argus requested that I craft a cover story about our connection, but my thoughts are so chaotic that I'm struggling to find one we both agree on. He proposed we disclose the truth, eliminating the need to conceal our identities once my brother arrives," I explained.

"He's right. Lucius is fixated on a new pursuit that will bring him here, determined to recover something he believes is rightfully his. He's keeping a close eye on Argus, making it increasingly challenging for your brother to stay much longer. When Lucius discovers your affiliation with the Dark Moon pack, his resolve to destroy any resistance to the Collective will only strengthen," Selene cautioned.

"The security system has been implemented as you requested, providing extra protection. But, the Dark Moon pack needs to understand why breaching the magical barrier is possible. While we have dropped hints, everyone must be explicitly informed," I emphasized.

"The Shifting Circle has now discovered what you, Argus, and I have long been aware of. This revelation is challenging for them to accept, particularly Lennox. Understanding the fate of the children of the Silver Forest pack who were captured and what became of them will profoundly impact Lennox and the former members of the Crimson pack," disclosed the Moon Goddess. "He had sincerely thought he was the sole survivor."

"Recognizing that you and Argus faced a similar destiny but chose to confront the Collective from within will motivate others to stand up against this malevolence. Just like the book series you both cherished in your youth," Selene mentioned.

"Do you expect Argus and me to be the 'Mockingjays' for the Dark Moon's ascent?" I questioned. "I'm not exactly a role model."

"Being honest and sharing your experiences will help Adrian understand your previous decisions. This will make it easier for him to forgive you," Selene said softly.

I nodded in agreement with her observation. The Moon Goddess was correct. Once Argus joined me, there would be no need any longer for aliases, secrets, and lies. I was equally relieved and terrified.

"When will Argus arrive?" I mumbled.

"In forty-eight hours, you and Adrian will meet him here, and Argus will stay with you. A spare room, fully furnished, awaits him. He will also receive my blessing mark, indicating to all that he is under my protection and care," replied the Moon Goddess.

"I will ensure that Argus' needs are handled, just like I did for all the Byte Club members. There are more upcoming changes, Seraphina, so keep your faith. You will become a beacon of hope for many more people than you can imagine simply by being true to yourself, Seraphina Dusk, the alpha heir of the Obsidian Moon Pack," Selene assured.

Argus's Point of View

I could sense Lucius' gaze on me once more, thinking he was being discreet. It was far from it, and it made me uneasy. Was he aware of my actions? Before I could dwell on it, he sat beside me and pushed a bulky file labeled "Dark Moon Pack" in my direction.

I paused my work, entirely focusing on him. Instead of reaching for the file, I awaited his guidance. Lucius thrived on control; I learned that lesson in my younger days.

"I would appreciate receiving a copy of all the notes you have gathered on the aerial surveillance of the Dark Moon Pack and the magical barrier safeguarding the pack. It is known that only werewolves can breach this barrier. I want a team to procure some of their formidable members. The current Luna is an elemental wolf and is both the adopted daughter of Lennox Armstrong and the biological daughter of the former Warrior Luna Bethany, who established the Shifting Circle," Lucius remarked.

I nodded in response but kept my face devoid of emotion.

Soon after, Lucius stood up, shut the door to my office, and settled back into his seat. My heart raced in my chest as his unwavering gaze locked onto mine, making me feel frozen in place. Drawing on my operative training, I stayed composed and tried to show no sign of being affected by his proximity.

"Son," Lucius addressed me, his voice smooth but with an undercurrent of menace. "We need to talk."