2. ELOWEN

Chapter 2

ELOWEN

I strut through the forest, my boots crunching leaves beneath my feet. The sunlight filters through the trees, casting dappled shadows on the forest floor.

As the daughter of the Alpha, I'm used to a life full of responsibilities and expectations. But that doesn't mean I can't have a little fun along the way.

And that "fun" is this. A silent walk or run through the woods with enough peace to listen to my thoughts.

I reach a clearing and pause, leaning against a tree to catch my breath. Suddenly, I hear rustling nearby—something in the bushes. My senses go on high alert, and I tense, ready to defend myself.

Out of the shrubbery emerges none other than my best friend and fellow pack member, Finn. He grins at me, his eyes twinkling mischievously.

"Hey, Pipsqueak," he says, flashing a wolfish grin. "What are you doing out here all alone?"

I roll my eyes, crossing my arms over my chest. "Just taking a stroll through the woods, Finn. What's it to you?"

Finn chuckles, stepping closer. "You know, you're always so serious, Elowen. Why don't you lighten up for once?"

I raise an eyebrow, a smirk playing at the corners of my lips. "Lighten up? Please. I'm the life of the party, Finn. You should know that by now."

Finn laughs, shaking his head. "Alright, alright, I get it. You're the queen of fun. But speaking of parties, there's a gathering at the Alpha's den tonight. Are you coming?"

I consider his invitation for a moment, tapping my chin thoughtfully. "Hmm, let me think about it. I do love a good party, after all."

I grin as Finn punches my arm playfully, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "That's the spirit, Elowen."

"Anyways, I knew you'd be here. Whatchu wanna do? Go for a run, right? Mind if I join you?" He asks.

I roll my eyes, knowing full well that my father probably sent Finn to keep an eye on me. "You know, Finn, I can take care of myself, alright? I don't need a chaperone just to go for a run."

As Finn pouts, his bottom lip juts out in mock hurt. I can't help but roll my eyes.

Dramatic fool.

"Aw, come on, Elowen. You know how Big Daddy is. I can't deny him anything," Finn insists, his puppy-dog eyes pleading with me.

I snort, barely able to contain my laughter.

Big Daddy strikes again. Honestly, sometimes my father forgets I'm not a pup anymore.

"Well, he made a mistake if he sent you to chaperone me through the woods I grew up in, because you are definitely the worst chaperone. Let's go have some fun," I declare with a grin.

He returns it, his eyes twinkling with excitement. "Yes, my lady. Let's do just that."

Without wasting another moment, we both start to strip, our clothes falling to the forest floor as we shift into our werewolf forms. I'm not even the least bit shy—it's not like Finn and I haven't seen each other like this since we were little pups.

Once there was a rumor about us having feelings for each other and getting married.

But other rumors were circulating among the pack about Finn having a crush on one of the warriors.

We love each other but would never have those types of feelings for each other. And besides, he's too busy pining after a guy who's part of the pack's warriors.

We sometimes play along to the rumors because it's fun, and we know it's not real.

As our bodies transform, I feel a surge of exhilaration coursing through me. Running in my wolf form is pure freedom, and I relish every moment.

Finn and I take off into the forest, our howls echoing through the trees as we race through the undergrowth. This is what it means to be truly alive, and I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world.

Finn is sleek and muscular in his wolf form, with a coat of dark fur that gleams in the sunlight. On the other hand, I am smaller and more agile, with a coat of silver-gray fur that blends seamlessly with the shadows.

As Finn and I tear through the forest, our spirits soaring as we revel in the joy of the hunt, a sense of friendly competition brews between us.

I can feel the thrill of the chase pulsing through my veins, driving me to push myself harder and faster.

With a mischievous grin, I glance over at Finn, who meets my gaze with a competitive gleam in his eyes.

You're not going to beat me that easily, Finn,

I pick up speed as we race through the undergrowth. But just as I'm about to pull ahead, a low growl echoes through the trees, freezing us both in our tracks.

My heart pounds in my chest as I slowly turn to face the source—a massive bear shifter standing before us, its eyes glinting with malice, ready to charge us.

Instinct kicks in, and I lower myself into a defensive stance, ready to protect Finn and myself.

It looks like we interrupted the bear shifters' eating frenzy. I think wryly, narrowing my eyes at the bear shifter.

Finn steps up beside me, "I don't think we can run." His stance is tense but determined. "You think we can take him, Elowen?" he whispers uncertainly.

I smirk, stretching my paws as I prepare for battle. "Of course we can, Finn. Let's see what he does," My sassy response masks the adrenaline coursing through my veins.

As the bear shifter charges at us, its massive form barreling toward us with frightening speed, my heart races. With a fierce growl, I leap forward to meet the challenge head-on, my muscles coiled with anticipation.

With lightning-fast reflexes, I dodge the bear shifter's initial swipe, narrowly avoiding its razor-sharp claws.

I counter with a swift kick to its side, but the bear shifter retaliates with a powerful swipe of its paw, sending me sprawling to the forest floor.

Gritting my teeth against the pain, my senses sharpen, and I quickly roll to my paws to face my opponent once more.

Finn is at my side instantly, his growls echoing mine as we stand shoulder to shoulder, ready to defend ourselves.

With a fierce battle cry, the bear shifter lunges at us, but this time, I'm ready.

I launch forward with all the strength and agility of a true alpha, meeting the bear shifter head-on in a flurry of claws and teeth.

Growls echo through the forest. Finn and I land several solid hits, each blow driving the bear shifter back a step, but it refuses to go down without a fight.

Finally, after what feels like an eternity, the bear shifter staggers back, its strength waning as it struggles to keep fighting. With a final, decisive blow, I deliver the finishing strike, sending the bear shifter crashing to the forest floor in defeat.

Breathing heavily, I exchange a triumphant grin with Finn, our victory hard-won but well-deserved.

Not bad for a day's run, I think, feeling a surge of pride in being able to defend myself.

"Well, that was epic," Finn sighs, shaking his head as we walk back into the pack territory. His eyes sparkle with excitement, and I can't help but grin at his enthusiasm.

I nudge him playfully with my shoulder. "Oh, come on, Finn. Admit it—you had fun," I tease, giving him a playful wink.

Finn rolls his eyes but chuckles softly, "Yeah, yeah, I guess it wasn't too bad. But don't let it go to your head, Elowen. We both know who the real hero of the day was."

I pretend to be offended. "Excuse me? I'll have you know that I single-handedly took down that bear shifter. You were just lucky to have me by your side."

Finn laughs, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "Alright, alright, you win. You're the hero of the day, Elowen. Happy now?"

I grin triumphantly, but before I can respond, we're interrupted by the sound of music in the air. It's the signal for the gathering at the Alpha's Den—the perfect opportunity to celebrate our victory.

With a quick exchange of smiles, Finn and I head off to freshen up for the gathering. As I make my way back to my room, I pass by the packhouse meeting room and pause when I hear my father's voice sounding worried.

Curiosity piqued, I press my ear against the door and listen intently to the conversation inside. What's going on? My heart pounds as I strain to make out my father's words.

As I listen intently, the voices inside grow louder, and I can finally make out my father's deep, authoritative tone. "We need to consider all our options," he says gravely. "Dark Moon's attacks are growing more frequent and more brutal. We can't afford to wait any longer."

There's a murmur of agreement from the elders gathered around the table. "But what can we do, Alpha?" one of them asks, his voice filled with uncertainty. "We're no match for Dark Moon. We need allies if we're going to stand a chance."

My father's tone takes on a steely edge. "I know that, Elder Marcus. Which is why I propose we seek out an alliance with a strong pack—one that can match Dark Moon's strength and numbers."

There's a pause as the elders digest my father's words, and then another voice speaks up, this one belonging to Elder Sophia. "And how do you propose we secure this alliance, Alpha? We can't just waltz into another pack's territory and demand their help."

My father's jaw tightens, but he remains resolute. "I suggest we offer a marriage pact. We have a valuable asset in Elowen, and her union with the Alpha of a strong pack could solidify our alliance and strengthen our position against Dark Moon."

Shock jolts through me at my father's words. Marriage? He can't be serious.

"But what about Elowen's wishes?" another elder interjects. "We can't force her into a marriage she doesn't want."

My father's voice hardens. "Elowen's wishes are secondary to the survival of our pack. She understands the stakes, and she will do what needs to be done for the greater good."

I swallow hard, my heart sinking at my father's words. He's right, I think bitterly. This might be the only way to save our pack. But that doesn't mean I have to like it.

As the conversation continues inside, I quietly slip away from the door, my mind reeling with the weight of my father's decision.

This is going to change everything, I realize with a sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach.

At the Alpha's den gathering, the mood is lively and festive as werewolves from all corners of the territory come together to celebrate and socialize.

The den is adorned with colorful banners and flickering torches, casting a warm glow over the gathered pack members.

Music fills the air, the beat pulsing through the crowd as werewolves dance and mingle under the starlit sky.

There's a makeshift dance floor set up in the center of the den, and couples twirl and spin to the rhythm, their laughter echoing through the night.

Meanwhile, delicious scents waft from the food tables, where pack members feast on an abundance of savory dishes and sweet treats. Grilled meats sizzle on the barbecue while trays of freshly baked desserts tempt even the most disciplined of werewolves.

Games and contests are also in full swing, providing entertainment for pack members of all ages.

A friendly arm-wrestling competition is going on in one corner, while in another, werewolves test their strength and agility in a series of obstacle courses.

I usually like all these fun things, but my mind is focused on my father's words. How am I supposed to marry a complete stranger?

"Where's your mind, Elowen?" Finn frowns staring at me as if he's trying to reach into my soul.

Finn's concerned frown draws me out of my thoughts, and I force a smile to mask the turmoil churning inside me. "Nothing. Maybe I'm just exhausted from the run earlier," I reply, hoping he'll drop the subject.

But Finn isn't convinced. "I don't believe you, Elowen," he says softly, his voice filled with genuine concern. "I know when something's bothering you."

I meet his gaze, momentarily lost in his warm, amber eyes. Finn is undeniably handsome and beneath his rugged exterior lies a heart of gold, and I'm grateful to have him as a friend.

Shaking my head, I push aside my conflicted thoughts. "I just need some fresh air," I mutter, already making my way towards the exit. "I'll be back in a bit."

Stepping outside into the cool night air, I make my way to the garden, the scent of blooming flowers attracting me. I find a secluded spot to sit, the soft grass cushioning my weary body as I try to calm my racing thoughts.

I can't marry someone I know nothing about. The idea seems absurd. Yet my father seems determined to go through with it for the sake of the pack.

I would do anything to help my pack, but isn't there another way to protect us from Dark Moon's attacks?

As I sit in the peaceful solitude of the garden, I vow to find a solution. I may not have all the answers now, but I refuse to let my fate be decided by politics.

With determination in my heart, I begin to devise a plan—a plan that will not only save my pack but also allow me to remain true to myself.

I'm not even two seconds into my plotting when I hear rustling beside me. My heart skips a beat as I turn to see my father emerging from the shadows, his expression grave.

"Elowen," he begins, his voice gentle yet firm. "We need to talk."

I swallow hard, knowing exactly what he's going to say. But that doesn't make it any easier to hear.

As he sits beside me, I can't help but notice the similarities between us—his strong jawline and the way his eyes crinkle at the corners when he smiles. But right now, there's no warmth in his gaze, only determination.

He knows I know.

"What is it, Father?" I ask, trying to keep my voice steady.

He takes my hand in his, his grip firm yet reassuring. "Elowen, I know you overheard our conversation earlier," regret deepens his voice, "and I know you're not happy about the marriage alliance."

I bristle at his words. "You said you didn't care about my wishes," I accuse, unable to keep the hurt out of my voice.

"Elowen, you know that's not true," he says softly. "You're my daughter, and I value you more than anything in this world. But I had to make a difficult decision—one that I hoped would protect our pack."

I want to argue, to lash out at him for putting me in this position. But as I look into his eyes, I see the pain reflected there, and I know he's telling the truth.

"I'm sorry if my words hurt you, Elowen," he continues, his voice heavy with remorse. "But I had to act quickly to prevent the elders from making a decision that could have been even worse for you."

I sigh as I realize the truth in his words. "I understand, Father," I reply softly. "But is there no other way? Can't we find another solution?"

He shakes his head sadly. "I'm afraid not, Elowen. The elders are adamant that this is the only way to ensure our pack's safety."

I close my eyes, feeling defeated. "Then I guess I have no choice but to resign myself to it."

My father's grip tightens on my hand, his silent support offering me strength.

Then, my father surprises me by pulling me into a tight hug. I hesitate for a moment before leaning into him, seeking comfort in his embrace.

For a moment, we simply hold each other, the warmth of his presence soothing my turmoil. "I only wish your mother were still here to see you now," he murmurs, his voice thick with emotion.

I smile sadly, remembering my beautiful mother with her auburn hair and striking green eyes—features I inherited from her. She had always been my rock, my source of strength and guidance, and I missed her every day.

"I miss her too, Father," I reply quietly, my voice catching in my throat. But even as I speak the words, I can't help but feel a surge of pride at the thought of my mother watching over me from wherever she may be.

With a nod, my father releases me from his embrace, and his eyes meet mine with a mixture of love and sadness.

And as we stand together in the moonlit garden, I know that no matter what challenges lie ahead, I won't face them alone.