I have made a mistake and regret it in hindsight. It was a moment of weakness that I cannot take back, however I know now that it was wrong and something I wish to course correct for. This regret has been weighing heavily on my conscience, like an invisible burden with no end or solution in sight. No matter how much time passes, the guilt of my misdeed still lingers in my mind as a reminder of what happened. So, why did I embrace him? This is the query that has been resounding in my mind since last night and still has not left me. I have been lying awake for hours now, my thoughts drifting back to that moment of contact. It had been a fraction of a second but it felt much longer - echoing in my head all night long.I hadn't expected to feel the urge that swept over me; he had done so much harm to my country and our people. His father had caused so much pain and suffering, and that was something I was sure I would never be able to forget. And yet here I am, hugged the enemy who's a p
An arm reached out and grabbed me around the wrist before I could even react.I was completely taken aback, confused and taken off guard. When I looked up, I saw that it was Lowell who had prevented me from striking the door shut. He had narrowed his eyes and his lips were set in a tight line as he glared at me with hatred. His gaze was so fierce that it felt like he could cut through my heart with just one single look. It made me feel like I'd been caught red-handed, yet I hadn't done anything wrong.“L-lowell-”“I literally put myself in danger and risked my life just to get you here, and this is the thanks I get? You want to end your own life in return?! After all of the sacrifice and effort I had put into taking you away from Adolf, do you really think that this is the best way? Have all my efforts been for nothing? Is there something else going on that's stopping you from finding a reason to live?!”I wanted to reassure him that it was an empty threat and that I had no intention
With a sharp swoosh, I raise my claws high in the air before bringing it down swiftly on an unsuspecting tree.The sight of wood shards flying around me and the sound of blades clashing against each other never fails to fill me with a sense of power and strength. I strike again and again, aiming to make short work of my task at hand. With every hit I make progress, until finally each tree has been cleaved into two nearly equal parts.I didn't stop with the first tree, and kept on jumping higher and higher to reach other trees. My arms almost moved in an automatic fashion as I continued to saw and cut without ceasing. Eventually, I felt my temper flare, and punched the tree with a force I never knew was possible. Instantly, the powerful impact sent it smashing through the landscape, until it finally shattered into fragments of wood all over the ground. The feeling of satisfaction was so immense that it almost felt liberating.I kneel on the ground, my lungs heaving from exertion as my
“What do you mean?”Gigantor gave me a warm smile that seemed to say so much, his gaze then lifting up towards the ceiling as if his mind was racing with different thoughts. I felt like he was speaking to me with just that one look and it made my heart swell.I groaned loudly, feeling my frustrations build as he left me with that cliffhanger. I ran my fingers along the bridge of my nose and gave him a look that said 'you know what you're doing'. I had been on the edge of my seat until this point, eager to find out what would happen next in this story. But now, here he was, leaving me dangling without any resolution. He knew exactly how to keep a listener enthralled and leave them wanting more.And it seems like Gigantor spotted the expression on my face because he quickly raised his hands in surrender.“Back in my days I had the privilege of training werewolves like you. I am unsure of which family tree your ancestors may have belonged to, but it is a safe assumption that Wolfrith's g
I slowly peeled my eyes open, the morning sunlight streaming into the bedroom and bathing me in its warm rays. I felt energized and full of life, ready to take on the day's challenges. I felt a newfound sense of purpose, as though there was something out there waiting for me to discover.I was just about to shift my body when I felt an unfamiliar weight on me. When I opened my eyes, I noticed that someone else had joined me in the room! My gaze quickly lowered towards my body, and there it was: a hand placed firmly above the waistline of my attire. Instinctively, my heart began to race as I tried to recall who could have entered without alerting me. Had someone snuck in while I was asleep?Who’s hand is this?!I shivered as I felt a soft breath brush against my skin, surreal and astonishing. For a few moments all I could do was blink in amazement, wondering if it was only a figment of my imagination. But no, it was really there; the warmth of another body so close to mine that its pre
Anxiety flooded through me as Lowell moved closer, his intent clear. My heart raced in my chest and I felt like I couldn't breathe. His lips were mere inches away from mine, and I realized that he was going to kiss me. This moment seemed to stretch on forever, the anticipation of his actions sending shivers down my spine.I was completely at a loss for what to do. I initially wanted to push him away and give him a hard slap across the face, but I couldn’t bring myself to do it. I knew that he would be absolutely livid if I did so and it wasn't something that I felt comfortable doing anyway. All these conflicting emotions swirling around prevented me from making any decisive action.I could feel a lump rising up in my throat and before I knew it, all the noise around us had suddenly faded away. Time seemed to stand still when he leaned closer and closer towards me. I closed my eyes, feeling the anticipation of his lips just a mere inch away from mine, but then at the last moment, I loo
I roused from my sleep feeling the gentle touch of somebody's hand running through my hair and across my skin.I was in a dreamlike state filled with a soothing sensation of comfort and peace. I felt the warmth of the sun on my skin as I savored this moment, unsure if it was actually real or just part of a dream. After several moments, reality started to creep back in and while my eyes were still closed, I started to return to full consciousness.My vision was just a bit out of focus when I first woke up, with memories of what happened prior to this moment appearing foggy. I was still in a state of confusion as my eyes spotted an unfamiliar figure sitting right in front of me.“Daciana, you’re finally awake.”That voice…My breathing suddenly became shallow and I felt my senses awaken as the memories of what happened returned to me. I had lost consciousness due to the unbearable heat brought on by climate change in this area. Hunger, I also remembered; an uncomfortable sensation that
I would much rather not take a dip in this body of water knowing that I will be ogled by Lowell who is smugly perched there at the corner.The idea of being so exposed and vulnerable to his piercing gaze is one that does not settle well with me. He may think he holds dominion over this place, but I know better than to let him have even an ounce of power over me here. This feeling of uneasiness has been growing inside my chest ever since the moment he took me here.I wrapped the blanket tightly around myself and glanced away, thinking about whether or not I should go ahead with it. But then I felt a wave of heat rush over me, like a scorching wind was blowing through the room. It was unbearable; I couldn't even take a full breath without feeling my skin burning up in the unforgiving heat. Then my eyes fell on Lowell, who seemingly wasn't fazed by the blistering temperature at all. He simply sat there, watching me expectantly.“Hurry up, Daciana. I am waiting.”I could feel my jaw clenc
Years later...I took a deep breath, inhaling the pure air that surrounded me. I glanced around the area, looking at all the people and taking in my surroundings. A gentle smile spread across my face as I thought of how lucky I was to be there at this exact moment. The beautiful trees and flowers seemed to be flourishing in the bright sun, creating a breathtaking landscape. The birds tweeted happily in between small bushes, adding to the already joyful atmosphere of this place.“Daciana? What on earth are you doing out there. Don't you remember that you need to go inside and get yourself ready?”I didn’t look up at him when he called my name. Instead, I felt my feet leave the ground, as if I could reach the stars and fly away from here. Memories of days gone by cascaded into my mind like waterfalls, bringing with them a flood of emotions. They were memories both fond and painful that made me pause in that moment, feeling vulnerable but also appreciative for all life had given me.“Do
“Daciana! Get a hold of yourself!”I was vaguely aware of a hand shaking my shoulder, as if someone was trying to force me awake. I couldn't tell if my body and mind were truly awake or not; it felt like I was suspended somewhere between consciousness and dreamland. It wasn't an altogether unpleasant feeling, but something still seemed off. This sensation would come and go in waves, leaving me alternating between deep sleep and strange alertness. My thoughts would wander in and out of reality until eventually, the hand shaking my shoulder become more vivid.“Daciana!”I slowly crane my neck towards the direction of someone calling for me. Peering through the crowd, my eyes eventually meet with Blode's. His face is stained with tears, but I still see the strength and resoluteness held within them. He beckons to me again, putting all his energy into conveying his urgency. He doesn't have to tell me much; somehow, I already know what has gone wrong and why he needs help.“Your father, he
I felt completely frozen in place, my mind and body unable to process what I just witnessed. All this had happened so quickly that I couldn’t make sense of anything. My throat tightened, unable to even find the words to describe how utterly stunned I was. Nothing could have ever prepared me for this outcome and it left me feeling numb with shock. It was as if time stood still, yet the events kept unfolding before my eyes.“L-lowell…”He had shown his unwavering dedication to the cause, a loyalty that was unrivalled by any in his pack. None of them ever expected him to make such a selfless sacrifice. For in sacrificing himself, he put their future before his own wellbeing. His act of courage made them realize just how much he valued their safety and freedom, despite knowing that it would cost him dearly.Everyone stood shock still, their face a mask of disbelief. No one knew what to say or do when Adolf suddenly collapsed onto the ground, not fully conscious. All eyes glanced towards h
I screamed out of desperation, my anger and fear manifesting in cries of agony. I watched helplessly as the skulks dragged my father away from me.My heart raced as though it was about to burst from my chest, and a wave of pure panic surged through me. Without thinking twice, I ran towards them who had taken him so quickly and without warning.“LET GO OF HIM! DON’T YOU DARE TAKE HIM AWAY FROM ME AGAIN!”The skulks cackled loudly as my sobs and pleas fell on deaf ears. I felt powerless, my heart beating out of my chest as I took a deep breath in an attempt to quell the loud laughter. No, please. I had just been reunited with my father and if something were to happen to him, I would never forgive myself!I swiftly lifted my sword, ready to strike a blow against the skulks when I heard a commotion coming from behind me. I spun around in alarm, feeling apprehension rising within me as the voices grew louder and more numerous. What could be happening? My heart raced with anticipation and f
How could this be? I felt a chill as I gazed upon the darkness that had spread throughout the entire kingdom. Everywhere I looked, it felt like the sun itself had been blotted out from existence. It seemed like the shadows were slowly consuming everything in sight, and my heart sank at such a grim realization.I glanced up and saw Adolf’s body - he was clearly in need of help, but the shadows around him blocked my path. How could I go any closer to him? Hesitatingly, I took a step forward and found myself surrounded by a wall of darkness.I tiptoe cautiously, my heart pounding in my ears. Not a sound to be heard except the relentless humming of the darkness that threatens to consume me if I take one wrong step. I feel like any misstep could lead to a disastrous outcome - getting swallowed up by their ever-growing shadows - and I know that would mean certain doom for me.“How often must I warn you that there is no way you can beat me?”My focus was immediately brought back to Azariel a
I nodded my head slowly, taking the necklace from Father and carefully looping it around my neck. He smiled at me reassuringly, and then we both turned to face our foes.His gift to me had been a reminder of how much he cared for me, even in times of great peril. I felt an invisible surge of strength when I looked down at the glimmering metal against my chest; an assurance that no matter what would happen, Father was always by my side.“I’m so proud of you, darling.”Those were my father's encouraging words before we began to battle the groups of skulks advancing towards us. I had been preparing for this moment all week, equipping ourselves with weapons and practicing any tactical maneuvers that might give us an advantage. We had a duty to protect our home, and the feelings of anxiety that initially weighed on me had been replaced with a newfound determination. My dad's belief in my capabilities helped fuel this confidence, and I knew that no matter what happened, I would always stand
Even though we were heavily outnumbered by our opponents, we refused to be intimidated into retreating.We knew that if we wanted to stand any chance of victory, sheer determination and courage would be necessary. We could not afford to succumb to fear of the odds against us; although facing a daunting battle, our fortitude was unshakable. Our only hope for success lay in our ability to remain optimistic despite the disparity in numbers between us and the enemy; no matter how bleak things seemed, we kept going.Everyone was doing their utmost to make a difference, displaying bravery and a willingness to take the lead. All of them were uniting in one common cause; they wanted to win this last battle, no matter the cost. Each person was shouting and pushing forward with unwavering energy and vigor. They all knew what was at stake and were truly determined to succeed. The atmosphere was electric, inspiring me as I found my own courage swell within my chest.“You’re going to die here! Jus
“Adolf…”Everyone in the room had their eyes firmly fixed on the two standing before them.Adolf, standing tall and determined, was facing off against Azariel, despite having lost to him previously.“I-is that Adolf?”I glanced down at my father, his form so fragile, as he suddenly spoke. His breaths are labored and shallow, every inhalation a struggle and every exhalation a relief. It breaks my heart to see him in this state, but despite all of the difficulty he smiles up at me with a strength that is indomitable.“Yes, father.”Wrapping my arms around him, I leaned in and snuggled against his neck. I felt a pang of sadness that once again he wasn't by my side. Father returned the hug, letting out a deep sigh that seemed to speak of his own pain at having to be apart from me. His embrace was comforting yet bittersweet; he was there with me but I hate it because we’re in this situation. His chest rose and fell with each breath, like it was taking his heart along with him on each sighs
“A-azariel…”Taking a step back, I was filled with disbelief seeing him here, questioning if he has truly returned or not. It all seemed surreal to me; I almost couldn't believe it was happening. How could he be here now?The emotions running through my mind were a mix of confusion and apprehension when he suddenly spoke again.“Do you truly believe I'm that naive?”He forcefully grabbed my father by the throat, lifting him up into the air. I could feel an uncontrollable rage boil inside me when I saw my father struggling against Azariel.“FATHER! LET GO OF HIM YOU B*STARD!”My entire body seized up and my fists clenched as a need for vengeance overwhelmed me. I was willing to do anything to make sure he didn't hurt my father further, ready to lay down my life if necessary when someone stop me from advancing.“Daciana! No! It’s risky!”I peered over my shoulder and saw Stoic. His eyes were communicating to me that I should not do anything foolish and impetuous. He was trying to ensure