Dana

　　"I know you'll be by my side," I affirmed. "But I haven't made a decision yet. I'm still trying to figure out what to do," I confessed, my gaze dropping to the floor. His gentle touch lifted my chin, prompting me to meet his eyes once more.

　　"You can take all the time you need. Whatever decision you make, I'll stand by you," he reassured me, his forehead resting against mine as we closed our eyes together.

　　"I love you," he whispered before gently kissing my lips, a tender expression of his unwavering devotion.

　　Pulling back slightly, he met my gaze. "I think we should arrange for a doctor to check on you. I want to make sure your health is taken care of, regardless of what happens," he suggested, his concern evident in his eyes. I nodded in agreement, grateful for his care and consideration.

　　As the second day since discovering my pregnancy dawned, the weight of the revelation settled even heavier on my shoulders. Only Bathel and I were privy to this intimate secret, and the enormity of the decision looming before me left me paralyzed with uncertainty.

　　According to the doctor's assessment, I was already three weeks pregnant-a fact that only added to the complexity of my situation. I found myself torn between two equally daunting options, each presenting its own set of challenges and uncertainties.

　　On one hand, the thought of considering abortion filled me with a profound sense of unease. It was a choice I never imagined having to confront, and the mere idea of it left a bitter taste in my mouth.

　　Yet, on the other hand, the prospect of embracing motherhood was equally daunting. It was a path I hadn't planned for, and the thought of navigating the responsibilities and sacrifices that came with raising a child filled me with apprehension.

　　Caught between these two diverging paths, I felt utterly lost, unable to find clarity or solace in either option.

　　In the training room, surrounded by the familiar sights and sounds of our daily routines, I struggled to maintain a facade of normalcy despite the overwhelming fatigue that threatened to engulf me. Dizziness clouded my thoughts, and an overwhelming urge to sleep tugged at my eyelids, but I was determined not to betray any signs of weakness, especially in front of Anna, who stood nearby.

　　"You look tired," she observed, her concern evident in her voice as she approached me.

　　Forcing a smile onto my lips, I shook my head. "No, I'm fine," I replied, the lie slipping effortlessly from my tongue, masking the exhaustion that pulsed through every fiber of my being.

　　She emits a weary sigh. "In any case, I wish to extend my heartfelt congratulations to you for persevering through all the trials and tribulations on your journey of learning. You've displayed unwavering determination." With a gesture of warmth, she extends an embrace, and I reciprocate, our gazes locked in mutual understanding.

　　Does she comprehend the imminent arrival of a potential niece or nephew? I am acutely aware that terminating the pregnancy would inflict anguish upon her, as well as Barthel and myself. The predominant fear gripping me is the prospect of causing irreparable harm.

　　She disengages from our embrace, her expression gentle. "Always remember, there's no need to impose undue pressure on yourself," she remarks, a soft chuckle escaping her lips.

　　I return her smile. "Indeed, I'm not subjecting myself to the kind of pressure I once did with grades back in school. This endeavor feels more like a passion, an irresistible pursuit," I express, the smile widening across my face as I speak to her.

　　"That's reassuring," she murmurs, her voice carrying a gentle warmth that soothes the lingering doubts in my mind.

　　"Absolutely," I chuckle softly, echoing her sentiment with a mixture of gratitude and affection.

　　As she turns away, a flicker of hesitation crosses my mind. I yearn for a moment of privacy, a chance to confide in her away from prying ears and wandering eyes. The urge to open up, to share my thoughts and fears, grows stronger with each passing second.

　　But for now, I hold my tongue, masking my true intentions with a playful facade. Deep down, I know that her offer of support extends beyond mere words – it's a lifeline, a beacon of hope amid uncertainty. And when the time is right, I'll seize the opportunity to seek solace in her unwavering presence.

　　"Anna?" I call out, my voice tinged with a hint of urgency.

　　She swiftly turns to face me, her gaze curious. "Hmm?" she responds, her attention fully captured.

　　"Are you busy?" I inquire, my tone betraying a sense of hesitation.

　　She glances around, assessing her surroundings before returning her focus to me. "Well, I am not," she replies, her tone inviting further conversation.

　　I inhale deeply, steadying myself before speaking. "Can we talk?" I question, my voice quivering slightly as my hands betray my nerves.

　　"Sure," she agrees, her tone soft and understanding, a reassuring presence amid my uncertainty.

　　We find ourselves at the edge of the pack's territory, secluded in solitude, with only the two of us present. Two chairs sit facing each other, serving as silent witnesses to the impending conversation.

　　I instinctively wrap my arms around my chest, seeking comfort in the familiar gesture as I gather my thoughts.

　　"What do you want to talk about?" she inquires, her eyes reflecting a mix of curiosity and concern, undoubtedly wondering about the purpose of our secluded rendezvous.

　　"I just don't know how to tell you this right now," I whisper, a tentative smile gracing my lips. "But do you think I'm the right choice for Bathel? Am I even suitable to become his Luna?" I ask, my voice tinged with uncertainty as my heart races with apprehension.

　　She raises a brow, a flicker of concern crossing her features. "Is this because of what Divine said?" she inquires, her tone laced with curiosity. I quickly shake my head in response, dispelling any notion of outside influence clouding my judgment.