The synthesis of (2S,12'R)-2-(12' -aminotridecyl)pyrrolidine [(S,R)-8], a defense alkaloid of the Mexican bean beetle Epilachna varivestis starting from (R)-proline is described. The second stereogenic center is generated by nucleophilic 1,2 addition of methyllithium to an aldehyde-SAMP-hydrazone, followed by reductive N-N bond cleavage. The product is obtained in good yield and high enantiomeric and diastereomeric purity.