Episode 68

Derek

As Dylan and I wait, sunlight filters through the treetops, casting a golden glow that dances on the leaves and the forest floor. The feeling is one of calm and natural beauty, a contrast to the expectation that hangs in the air.

I pace back and forth, anxiety propelling me to move. Suddenly, Alariel appears, accompanied by a young man. They approach, and Alariel introduces us with a wide and welcoming gesture:

"Tiago, these are Derek and Dylan. And Derek, Dylan, this is Tiago, one of the people we can really trust."

Tiago extends his hand to me, and I shake it firmly, replying,

"Hello, Tiago. How are you?"

Tiago smiles and nods slightly.

"I'm fine, actually anxious to get to know you better."

His enthusiasm is contagious, and I smile back. Then Tiago turns to Dylan, greeting him with the same cordiality.

Alariel clears his throat and fixes his gaze on me, saying,

"Derek, would you mind transforming? Tiago would like to see you in your wolf form."

I nod with a slight smile, understanding the importance of the moment. I close my eyes for a moment, concentrating on the transformation. The feeling is of a growing heat, followed by the shifting of my bones and muscles, until I find myself in the form of a wolf. I look at Tiago, observing his reaction with interest.

He takes a step back, his eyes wide with surprise. The dry twig under his feet snaps, and he stumbles, almost falling to the ground. His hands reach out for support, but he manages to stay on his feet, still stunned.

"Holy shit!" he exclaims, his voice trembling with emotion and shock. "It's real!"

His expression is a mixture of awe and wonder, while his eyes follow my every move. I watch him with a certain curiosity, wondering what is going through his mind. The light filtering through the trees seems to enhance the brightness of his gaze, giving an almost magical tone to the scene.