Chapter 4

Alpha Archie, the leader of the strongest pack, had always been diligent in his duties. After the untimely death of his father two years ago, he had taken on the responsibility of leading his pack with unwavering determination. To maintain his strength and agility, Archie dedicated two hours every day at night to rigorous training at the pack's renowned training ground. It was during one such training session that fate decided to test him.

As Archie focused on his exercises, a sudden, sharp pain shot through his elbow, causing him to wince in discomfort. This was no ordinary pain, but a recurring symptom of a rare disease that plagued him. Every two months, he would experience this agonizing pain, coupled with swelling, leaving him incapacitated for days. Despite consulting the pack's doctor, no known cure had been found. The frustration of his condition only fueled his determination to find a solution.

After extensive research, the pack's doctor stumbled upon a potential remedy—a plant known to relieve the symptoms. However, there was a catch. This plant grew exclusively in a distant forest and had to be plucked under the cover of night. Knowing the gravity of the situation, Alpha Archie summoned his most trusted friend and assistant, Liam, who also held the position of a beta werewolf within the pack.

Liam was not only well-acquainted with Archie's ailment but also familiar with the precise location of the elusive plant. The knowledge of their shared secret formed an unbreakable bond between them. Aware of the importance of their mission, Liam readily responded to Archie's summons.

"Alpha Archie, you called for me?" Liam asked, stepping into the Alpha's study where he had been summoned.

Archie, his eyes narrowed with determination, nodded. "Liam, my friend, I need your help. The pain is back again and I would need you to get that usual plant for me, please. 

Liam's brows furrowed with concern. "I understand, Alpha Archie. You cannot leave the package unattended, but we cannot ignore this opportunity for relief. I am at your service, and I shall fetch the plant for you."

A sense of gratitude filled Archie's eyes as he clasped his friend's shoulder. "Thank you, Liam. Your loyalty knows no bounds. We must be swift, for the pain will return in due time."

"I will wait for you at our usual spot so I can munch on the plant quickly and this pain would relieve me as soon as possible." 

"Alright no problem," Liam said and went straight to the woods.

The moon shone brightly as Liam ventured into the woods, guided by the pale light filtering through the dense foliage. He moved with agility and purpose, his senses heightened by his supernatural abilities. 

As Liam delved deeper into the forest, he began to hum a tune, a song composed by his mate. The melody resonated through the trees, blending with the nocturnal symphony of nature. The rhythmic hum provided solace amidst the darkness, keeping him focused on his mission.

After what seemed like an eternity, Liam finally stumbled upon a glimmer of hope—a clearing bathed in silvery moonlight, where the rare plant he sought grew in abundance. He approached the plants with reverence, understanding the weight they held in his Alpha's life. Carefully, he plucked the leaves and flowers, ensuring that not a single precious specimen was wasted.

********

"I can't be stuck in this place," I whispered to myself.

I began to search for a way out. I weaved through the trees, pushing aside branches and stepping carefully over fallen logs. And then, in the distance, I spotted it—a narrow path snaking through the undergrowth.

I decided to follow that path. Perhaps it would lead me back to my pack, I thought optimistically. Little did I know that my decision would take me on an unexpected journey.

As I embarked deeper into the forest, the path twisted and turned, leading me away from a familiar place. Anxiety began to increase as it was getting too late already and everywhere was dark.

I knew I had to turn back. Panic welled up inside me as the realization dawned that I might not make it back to my house in time for the pack's forgery.

With a heavy sigh, I sat down on a moss-covered rock. Thoughts raced through my mind, each one more worrisome than the last. What if I couldn't find my way back? 

Lost in my worries, I was startled by a masculine voice that broke through the silence of the forest. I strained my ears, trying to make out the words. It was a person, someone, nearby, humming to a song.

Curiosity mixed with caution as I wondered who it could be and why the person was in the forest at this hour. 

"H-hello?" I called out tentatively, my voice trembling slightly. "Is someone there?"

The humming ceased, and after a moment, a figure emerged from the shadows. It was a tall, sturdy man with a kind smile on his face. He held something wrapped in a large leaf, his eyes filled with curiosity as he looked at me.

"What are you doing out here all alone?" he asked, concern evident in his voice. "It's dangerous to be wandering in the forest at night."

Relief washed over me as I realized I might have found someone who could help me. I quickly explained how I had gotten lost, my voice shaking with a mixture of fear and desperation.

"I-I was trying to get back to my pack" I stammered, my eyes welling up with tears. "But I took a wrong turn, and now I don't know how to find my way back."

The man, who introduced himself as Liam from the Moonlight Pack, listened attentively to my story. His expression softened with understanding, and he nodded sympathetically.

"I understand you" Liam said gently. "But don't worry, Leonora. I'll help you get back to your pack. However, there's something I need to take care of first. It won't take long, I promise."

His words brought a glimmer of hope to my heart, and I nodded gratefully. "Thank you, Liam. I appreciate your help more than words can express."

Together, we ventured deeper into the forest, guided by Liam's familiarity with the terrain. As we walked, a sense of unease began to wash over me again. It was as if someone else was watching us, their presence lingering just beyond my senses.

Suddenly, Liam made a soft, distinctive sound. In response, a tall figure emerged from where he had been resting, hidden among the trees. The moment our eyes locked, an electric wave passed between us, filling the air with an inexplicable intensity. Time seemed to stand still as we both realized that we were mates. 

"But who exactly is this man?" I thought.