Episode 11

Siena

Everything happened so quickly that I still feel a bit numb, but then my eyes see him coming. Our gazes meet, and a sense of relief at seeing him washes over me. While Jasmine clings to me, we remain silent for a moment. I look around and realize that, after crossing that cave, we find ourselves in this unique place.

The houses here are built of stone, with a rustic architecture, but with a touch of modernity at the same time. I see several curious people coming out of their homes to watch us, and I remember that they are a pack of wolves. I swallow hard, feeling a little intimidated.

Derek, after taking a deep breath, walks quickly to me and firmly grasps my hand. Our gazes meet again for a brief moment, until he raises my arm and shouts:

— This is Siena, my mate! I want you to respect her as you respect me!

My heart beats like a drum in my chest, and I feel the fresh morning breeze enveloping us, swaying my hair. The reality of the situation still resonates within me, leaving me somewhat numb. The people around us murmur among themselves, some seem surprised, others curious.

Jasmine, still clinging to me, looks at Derek with wide, curious eyes. The little one tries to understand what is happening. I hug her tighter, trying to convey some sense of security amidst the confusion.

Derek takes a step forward and turns to me and Jasmine, his eyes shining with an intensity that makes me feel the depth of the moment.

— Siena and Jasmine, from today, you two are officially one of us. You are members of the pack, Shadows of the Dawn. From now on, you are no longer alone. Welcome! — he says, alternating his gaze between me and Jasmine.

His words pierce deep into my heart, and then he transforms into the huge wolf that he is. Around us, I see the members of the pack beginning to transform as well. One by one, their bodies take on the form of wolves, large and majestic. The howls begin to echo, each sound reverberating in the air. The howls are more than sounds; they are a promise, an oath of protection and belonging.

Jasmine and I look at each other, our eyes reflecting the same mixture of disbelief and emotion. For a moment, everything seems to move in slow motion. Then, a smile through tears appears on our lips. A sense of belonging, something we have never felt before, fills our hearts.

We take a deep breath and, with a burst of courage and joy, we howl along with them. Our howls blend with theirs, creating a harmony that resonates through the village. The sound is powerful and liberating, a clear sign that, for the first time, we have found a place where we truly belong.

The wolves around us respond with even louder howls, as if they are fully accepting us into their circle. Derek, returning to his human form, watches us with a satisfied smile, his eyes filled with pride and relief.

The breeze caresses our faces, mixing with the tears that flow freely. For a brief moment, all fears and uncertainties dissipate, replaced by a sense of security and community.

Finally, the howls begin to fade, and the wolves return to their human form, one by one. They look at us with smiles and waves, some even approach to welcome us up close. The atmosphere is one of celebration and acceptance.