---- Chapter 11 "The entrance is just around that bend," the guide said, pointing to a nearly invisible crack in the mountainside. "Moonshadow Sanctuary welcomes all souls truly in need of refuge." We'd been traveling for a full seven days. The cub in my belly was getting more active, while my own strength was starting to fail me. The sanctuary's entrance was more hidden than I'd imagined. The narrow crack in the mountain looked impossible to pass through, but as I followed the guide into it, the view suddenly opened up - a hidden valley ringed by mountains, with buildings scattered around, their styles a mix from many different wolf packs. "Moonshadow Sanctuary," the guide announced proudly. ''A neutral zone, unchanged for a thousand years. No Alpha feuds, no pack disputes. Only peace and healing." ---- I took a deep breath. The fresh air carried the scent of herbs and incense. It felt completely different here - no threat, no fear, only calm. An elderly woman walked towards us, her silver hair falling to her waist, her eyes filled with wisdom and kindness. Welcome, Seraphina Moonridge," she smiled. "I am Eira, one of the Sanctuary's Keepers. We've been expecting you." That surprised me. "You knew I was coming?" "The Moon Goddess sent us a message," she said with a mysterious smile. ''A mother carrying a special bloodline needed our protection. Come, your cottage is ready." The guide and my escorts said goodbye at the entrance. According to the rules, only those truly seeking sanctuary could enter. I followed Eira along a path to a small, standalone ---- cottage. It was simple but cozy, with fresh herbs and flowers on the windowsill. "This will be your home, until you decide to leave, " Eira said softly. There's no time limit in the Sanctuary. Some stay for a few months, others choose to stay for a lifetime." I looked around, a sense of safety I hadn't felt in ages washing over me. "Thank you for taking me in." "No need for thanks. It is our duty," she said gently. "Tomorrow, I'll have a healer come see you and the cub. For now, rest well." Late that night, I sat alone on the rocking chair on the cottage porch, gazing at the stars. They seemed brighter here, closer. Suddenly, a faint noise put me on alert. "Who's there?" I asked, my voice sharp. ---- No answer, but I could feel someone watching me. The Sanctuary was supposed to be safe, no violence or intrusion allowed. I stood up and walked towards where the sound had come from. In the shadows, where the moonlight didn't reach, I thought I saw a pair of familiar golden eyes. Just as I was about to get closer, the figure vanished into the night. The next morning, Eira brought a young healer named Lina, who specialized in pregnant werewolves. "Your cub is very strong," Lina said after examining me. "The Alpha bloodline is very clear. This will be a powerful heir." "Heir to what?" I said with a bitter smile. "He has no pack to inherit." "Bloodlines always find their place," Lina said