Gwen's lips curled into a sneer as she moved deeper into the cave, making Leah's breath catch. The cold steel of the dagger in her palm flashed in the firelight. Beside Leah, Samuel tensed up, his hands closing around his own weapon's hilt.
Gwen purred, her tone brimming with contempt, "Well, well." "What a sweet little family get-together."
Leah's heart thumped in her chest, but she forced herself to stay cool. "How did you come across us?"
Gwen twirled the dagger in her hand and laughed. Did you truly believe that I wouldn't be alert Omega? you really underestimate me."
Samuel took a defensive stance in front of Leah. "What are you looking for?"
Gwen grinned more broadly. "I want to maintain my position and authority, as I have always desired. And you are an issue, Omega, my dear.
Leah didn't flinch as she looked into her eyes. "Your family was responsible for our separation,werent they?"
Gwen pretended to be shocked. "Oh, sweetheart, you got it! However, I'm afraid you won't benefit from that small realization. Her eyes gleamed with malice as she stepped forward again. You see, I can't let you and your long-lost brother go around revealing uncomfortable facts.
Samuel's jaw tightened. "I will not let you get away with this."
"Oh," Gwen responded calmly, "but I will." "Jacob has faith in me. The pack has faith in me. It will be much too late by the time they discover what has transpired."
Leah clenched her fists. "I will not allow you to harm us."
Gwen let out a loud sigh. "You were always obstinate, Omega. It's extremely unfortunate. She suddenly lunged, the blade cutting through the air towards Leah's throat.
Fast to react, Samuel shoved Leah aside. A small line of blood appeared where the blade had grazed his arm. Despite his agonized growl, he slashed his own dagger in Gwen's direction without hesitation. She jumped back, dodging the blow with a feline's elegance.
Leah's thoughts were racing as she stumbled to her feet. She had to prevent Gwen from winning. It was crucial to the pack's destiny.
Gwen surged once more, this time for Leah. Leah, however, was prepared. She grabbed Gwen's wrist and twisted it as she sidestepped at the last second. The dagger fell to the cave floor with a clunking sound.
Gwen was pinned against the stone wall by Samuel's quick movements. Her eyes were burning with rage as she struggled. She spat, "You have no idea what you're doing."
Breathing heavily, Leah took a step closer. "No, Gwen. You don't.
Samuel secured her movements by tying a length of fabric around her hands. "We're returning her to Jacob." Show him the reality of his luna.
Gwen gave a scathing chuckle. "You believe he'll believe you instead of me?"
With resolute determination, Leah looked into her eyes. "We'll see about that."
Leah knew the fight was far from over even after Gwen was taken captive. Convincing Jacob that his new Luna harbored evil was the most difficult task yet.