- Bonds and Scars -
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As Samuel walked back to the pack alongside the Alpha, the sounds and movements around him felt heightened, reflecting the tension in the air. He observed the other wolves running back and forth, exchanging anxious glances, and couldn't hold back his curiosity.
— Why is everyone so restless? — Samuel asked.
The Alpha gave him a calm look before replying with a tone of reverence.
— In two days, it will be the Night of the Moon. It's the day we celebrate the sacrifice of the Moon Goddess, the first sacred she-wolf. She's the reason we hold on to hope. Her light guides us, and her memory strengthens us.
Samuel nodded, feeling the weight of the Alpha's words.
— For now, let's go to my den. You'll stay there until we're ready to leave for the new pack.
After a few minutes of walking, they reached the Alpha's cave. Samuel once again noticed its simplicity and silence—a peaceful and welcoming place.
— I need to attend a meeting now. I'll be discussing the new apprentices with the other mentors. Don't worry, I'll be back soon — the Alpha informed him before leaving quickly.
Alone, Samuel sat on the cave floor, lost in thought. He questioned his role among the wolves and whether he was truly ready for the responsibility the Alpha placed on him. Memories of the hunters' attack resurfaced. The image of the dead wolves disturbed him deeply. Could he really protect the pack without putting them in even more danger?
His thoughts were interrupted when the Alpha returned, wearing a friendly smile.
— You looked deep in thought... What were you reflecting on?
Samuel hesitated.
— Just... thinking about what it means to be your second-in-command. It's an honor, but also a heavy responsibility.
The Alpha nodded, understanding.
— I know being a human among us isn't easy. But I want you to know that I trust you, Samuel. I believe you can be the change we need. But don't forget—being my second is about more than leadership. It requires care, protection, and loyalty to the pack.
Samuel listened carefully. Those words solidified his decision.
— You're right, Alpha. I'll do my best.
— I'm glad to hear that. Tonight, I'll have to introduce you to the council of the other Alphas and to our queen. Their presence will be important to make your position official — the Alpha explained.
— I hope this decision doesn't cause you any trouble — Samuel said, concerned.
— Don't worry. I'm confident they'll see your worth, just as I did.
To further establish his new role, the Alpha made a moonstone necklace appear around Samuel's neck. It was a talisman, a symbol of trust and authority within the pack.
— While I'm away, if anyone doubts your authority, show them this talisman. It should be enough for them to respect you as my second.
Samuel held the talisman with reverence, aware of the symbolic weight it carried. With that, the Alpha took his leave, leaving Samuel in charge of the pack until his return.
Sitting outside, watching the wolves go about their tasks, Samuel noticed a group approaching him, their expressions tense.
— Where's the Alpha?
— He's out. Can I help you with something?
— This is Alpha business, not yours, human — one of the wolves replied with disdain.
Remaining calm, Samuel raised the talisman hanging from his neck. The wolves tensed as they recognized the symbol, exchanging uncertain looks.
— Seems like the Alpha really does trust you... — one of them said, reluctantly.
Another added:
— We found a hunter hiding in the trees. There was a fight, and one of ours, Miniex, got hurt.
— Is he alright?
— Yes, he was taken to the healers. As for the hunter, he's tied up near the river. We didn't want to bring him into the pack without the Alpha's permission.
Samuel nodded, focused.
— Take me to him.
When they arrived, Samuel recognized the man bound by ropes. Even gagged, the hunter looked at him with a mix of fear and hatred. Samuel stepped closer, removed the gag, and spoke with a firm voice:
— What did you do with the pup?
The hunter gave a cruel smile and spat out the words:
— Pup? What pup? Probably dead—just like all of you should be.
Samuel clenched his fists, rage rising within him.
— Don't you feel shame for hunting defenseless beings?
The hunter only grinned, malicious:
— It's satisfying to watch the life fade from those beasts' eyes... If you think this scares me, you're wrong.
At the edge of his patience, Samuel lifted the hunter by his collar, staring into his eyes with unshakable intensity.
A gunshot echoed.
The hunter collapsed to the ground, lifeless. The wolves nearby fell into silence, watching Samuel, who turned his gaze away, steady and unwavering.
— That's what happens to those who threaten the pack.
Without another word, he turned and walked away. The respect from the wolves was tangible, though mingled with surprise.
— Now I see why the Alpha trusts this human so much — one of them murmured.
Samuel continued in silence, focused on his duty and his vow to protect the pack at any cost.
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