The Attack.

The moon hung high in the night sky, casting a silvery glow over the estate. Carl stood on the balcony, his thoughts as tumultuous as the wind that rustled the leaves.

Tomorrow marked a critical turning point – Noelle's decision on her partner, a choice that could alter the course of their lives and the supernatural realm itself.

As he gazed out into the night, Carl's thoughts were interrupted by the sound of hurried footsteps. Noelle appeared, her crimson eyes filled with urgency.

"Carl!" she called out, her voice laced with concern. "We need to talk."

He turned to her, his brows furrowing. "Noelle, what's wrong?"

"There's a threat," she explained, her gaze searching his. "A bunch of rogues are planning an attack, and I received word that they're targeting me."

Carl's heart raced at the news. He had to act swiftly to protect Noelle. "We need to strengthen the estate's defenses and prepare for the worst."

"No," Noelle said firmly, her expression resolute. "I can't let them harm your people because of me. I have to confront them."

Carl's concern deepened. "Noelle, it's dangerous. Let's gather our allies, devise a strategy."

"No time," she replied, her tone unwavering. "They're coming tonight."

Before Carl could protest, Noelle darted towards the estate's entrance, her determination lighting a fire within him. He couldn't let her face this threat alone.

They raced through the estate's corridors, Noelle's footsteps echoing his own. The tension in the air was palpable as they reached the entrance. In the shadows, figures emerged – rival werewolves, their eyes glinting with malice.

Carl stood by Noelle's side, his posture defensive. "Noelle, stay close to me."

She nodded, her crimson eyes locked on their adversaries.

The clash was swift and fierce, the sound of battle ringing through the night.

Despite his best efforts, Carl found himself outnumbered, the intensity of the fight taking its toll.

In the midst of the chaos, Noelle's gaze turned towards him, concern and fear etched across her features. Time seemed to slow as a werewolf lunged at her, his intentions clear.

Instinct took over. Carl sprang forward, intercepting the attack meant for Noelle.

The impact sent them both crashing to the ground, pain shooting through Carl's side as he shielded her from harm.

He got up and lunged at him with his training sword and just as it was about to get serious Victor came in with the estate's guard.

Victor said with a little tone of sympathy and pity"Lord Fourth you stay back you are not strong enough to face them."

The werewolf retreated, his allies soon following suit, their attack repelled by the estate's guards.

As the dust settled, Noelle's crimson eyes were wide with shock. "Carl, are you hurt?"

He groaned, the pain radiating through his body. "I'll be fine, Noelle."

With the threat eliminated, they retreated to a quieter part of the estate. Noelle's expression was a mix of gratitude and frustration.

"Carl, you didn't have to do that," she scolded gently, her voice laced with worry. "You got hurt because of me."

Carl winced as he attempted to sit up. "Noelle, I couldn't let them hurt you. My injuries are worth protecting you."

Noelle's gaze softened, her fingers brushing against his side with a gentle touch. "But you're not invincible, Carl. You could have been seriously hurt."

He met her gaze, his determination unwavering. "Even the weak can protect others if they have the will to do so."

"Noelle," he continued, his voice sincere, "I don't want you to face danger alone. We're in this together."

She sighed, her eyes searching his. "You're infuriating, Carl."

He chuckled softly, wincing as the pain flared again. "I suppose I am."

A moment of silence hung between them, the weight of their shared experiences settling in the air. Noelle's fingers lingered on his side, her touch gentle yet meaningful.

"I appreciate your courage," she admitted, her voice softer now. "But next time, don't be so reckless."

Carl smiled, his heart swelling at her words. "I promise to be more cautious."

Carl then muttered under his breath 'I better find a way to become strong fast.'

As the night wore on, they found themselves sharing a rare moment of vulnerability. Their banter turned into a heart-to-heart conversation, their connection deepening even further.

"You have to return to your clan soon," Carl said, his tone tinged with regret. "To make your decision."

Noelle nodded, her gaze unwavering. "I've made my decision, Carl. And I'll make it clear to my father."

He met her gaze, a mixture of hope and uncertainty in his eyes. "What if he objects?"

Noelle's lips curved into a small smile. "I'll tell him that I've chosen the one who will only belong to me in this timeline."

As the night waned, Noelle's warmth and determination remained etched in Carl's heart. Their connection was a tapestry woven with moments of laughter, shared challenges, and unexpected courage.

As he lay there, his body healing and his heart aching, Carl knew that their journey was far from over.

The trials they faced were only the beginning, and together, they would face them – strong, vulnerable, and unyielding in their pursuit of a connection that defied conventions and embraced authenticity.