Enlightened by the Eclipse

The Nightveil Pack bustled with activity as preparations for the harsh winter pressed on. Valeria, only eight years old, skipped along the well-worn paths of the pack's territory, her breath visible in the crisp air. The adults moved with purpose, hauling bundles of firewood, sacks of dried herbs, and crates filled with preserved meat. The sky above was an icy blue, the promise of snow lingering on the horizon.

From the center of the pack's courtyard, her father, Alpha Cedric, stood tall and commanding, his voice steady as he issued orders. "Ensure the food is stored securely, and double-check the insulation in the dens. We can't afford to lose anything to frost or scavengers. Mason, how's the inventory coming along?"

Beta Mason, a stout man with a weathered face and kind eyes, glanced at the parchment in his hands. "We're short on blankets and a few essential herbs, Alpha. I'll send a team to the forest edge to gather what we can before the heavy snow sets in."

Valeria watched her father nod and continue directing the pack. She admired the way he carried himself-strong and capable, always putting the pack's needs above his own. Determined to be just as helpful, she carried small bundles of wood to the storage shed, her tiny arms straining but her spirit unwavering.

"Good work, Valeria," her father said with a proud smile when she returned for another load. "Your effort makes a difference, my little wolf."

Her cheeks flushed with pride at his words.

Not far away, her mother, Elara, watched from the large window of the packhouse. Her hands rested gently on her swollen belly, a soft smile playing on her lips as she observed her daughter and husband. Though she yearned to be out there with them, lending her own strength to the pack's efforts, the late stages of her pregnancy kept her confined. Still, she found solace in watching her family work together.

"Be careful, Valeria," Elara called softly through the open window. "Don't overdo it, my love."

"I won't, Mama!" Valeria called back with a grin. But her mother's words weren't necessary. Unlike others, Valeria didn't feel the cold the same way. She didn't need the thick coats or scarves the other wolves wrapped themselves in. Her simple jumpsuit was enough to keep her comfortable, even as the wind nipped at her rosy cheeks. It wasn't something she thought much about, but she noticed the way others sometimes glanced at her with confusion or unease.

"Isn't she cold?" one of the older warriors murmured to another as they passed by, bundled in heavy cloaks.

"That child.she's something else," the other replied, shaking his head.

But Valeria ignored the whispers. She had too much to do to dwell on their curiosity. She ran to the storage shed, where Beta Mason was now overseeing the stacking of crates.

"Uncle Mason," she piped up, tugging at the edge of his coat. "Do we need anything else? I can help!"

Mason knelt down to her level, smiling warmly. "You've done plenty already, Valeria. But if you're still full of energy, why don't you check on the pups in the nursery? They could use a helping hand keeping the little ones entertained."

She hesitated, glancing at her father, who gave her a nod of approval. "Go ahead, little one. The pups will be glad to see you."