Seraphine’s Bargain
The night was heavy with tension as Seraphine approached the gates of the Obsidian Howl stronghold. Towering sentries shifted in the shadows, their eyes glowing with distrust. Low growls rumbled from their throats, but Seraphine met them with a smirk, her crescent mark glowing faintly in the moonlight as if daring them to challenge her.
“Let me see him,” she commanded, her voice honeyed steel.
The wolves hesitated, their ears twitching in uncertainty, but one broke off and disappeared inside. Moments later, the great iron gates groaned open, revealing the dark heart of the stronghold.
Inside, Tobias lounged on a throne carved from black stone, his figure exuding a dangerous ease. Torches flickered around him, casting eerie shadows across his sharp features. As Seraphine stepped into the chamber, Tobias’s lips curled into a smile.
“Well, well,” Tobias drawled, his lips curling into a cold smile. “What do we have here? Crimson Fang’s little snake slithering into my den? Didn’t they teach you loyalty, Seraphine? Or was betrayal always your forte?”
Seraphine sauntered forward, her chin held high. “Loyalty is for those who lack vision,” she replied smoothly. “And I see far more clearly than Draven ever could.”
“You’ve got guts showing up here,” he said, his tone mocking yet curious. “What’s the matter? Crimson Fang’s dungeons weren’t to your liking?”
Seraphine didn’t flinch. She sauntered closer, her chin held high. “I have more than guts,” she replied, her voice smooth as velvet. “I have knowledge—of Crimson Fang, its weaknesses, and Draven’s precious Luna.” Her smile was sharp enough to cut glass. “Make me your Luna, and I’ll give you everything.”
Tobias’s laughter filled the room, rich and cold. He leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees, his eyes gleaming with intrigue. “Ambition suits you, Seraphine,” he said. “But I don’t make promises lightly. What makes you think I need you?”
Her gaze didn’t waver. “Because you know what I’m capable of. Draven underestimated me, and look where that got him. With me by your side, you’ll not only destroy Crimson Fang—you’ll rule every pack in the region.”
Tobias studied her, his expression unreadable. Then, a cruel smile spread across his lips. “Bold words,” he mused, rising from his throne. He circled her slowly, like a predator sizing up prey. “Let’s see if you’re worth it.”
Seraphine turned her head, tracking his movements with a confidence that belied the racing of her heart. “I’ve already proven myself once,” she said. “I can do it again.”
Tobias leaned close, his voice dropping to a menacing whisper. “Prove your loyalty to me, Seraphine. And if you succeed…” His lips curled wickedly. “I’ll make you a queen.”
