---- I closed my eyes, unable to watch anymore. The pain in our mate bond was like a sharp knife, stabbing my heart over and over. Back in the den, I took out the crystal communication stone I'd kept hidden for years and contacted my birth pack. "Elder Elara," I whispered, "I need your guidance ... about the 'Moon Eclipse Unbinding.'" Ashocked gasp came from the other end. "Child, that's a last resort. Once you begin..." "I know the cost," I cut her off, my voice like frost. "But someone else already made their choice. They don't deserve my loyalty." After ending the call, I looked out the window. In the distance, Kaelen was still standing guard outside Lyra's temporary shelter, like he was protecting some precious treasure. I swore, when the eclipse came, I'd make him ---- taste betrayal. Just like I was, my heart being torn to shreds.