Can I genuinely believe the statements of another wolf?
“You evoke memories of my arrival at River Moon,” she sighs, wiping the stinging tears from my face. “May I present something to you?”
Prior to my response, she gestures with her wrist, and a gateway materialises before me. From my vantage point, I can discern a lake and other structures under construction in the distance. Josie attempts to grasp my hand, but I recoil while maintaining my gaze on the gateway.
“It is acceptable,” she reassures, her compassionate gaze connecting with my earnestly.
With hesitation, I permit her to guide me through the portal, and I discover myself in a whole distinct realm.
“What is our location?” “I enquire, surveying the unfamiliar surroundings.”
The new region resembles a construction site, with hundreds of wolves transporting equipment and constructing supplies for various projects. A substantial assembly of women is congregated near the lake. It appears they are engaged in a yoga session.
Josie responds, guiding me towards the women, “This region was previously referred to as Amethyst Lake, a den of malevolence.” Nicolas, the former Alpha, nullified the mate connection and incarcerated the women of his pack, exploiting them as s*x slaves. Last year, my associates and I successfully liberated all the women, their children, and some males.
“What about the Alpha?” “I inquire.”
“I am now their Alpha,” Josie proclaims with pride. Nicolas will never harm anyone again. Interpret that how you wish. I aim to convert this site of anguish into a refuge for those who endured Nicolas’s tyrannical rule. The initial stage is the most challenging: persuading them to accept my assistance. The past few months have been challenging. These ladies were battered and devastated until just a mere semblance of their former selves remained. Numerous individuals bear offspring with their perpetrators. The majority lack literacy skills. All of them continue to experience nightmares. Each day presents a challenge for these ladies, all because to a guy who was meant to safeguard them. ”
I observe the group of women engaged in their breathing exercises with their eyes shut. They resemble diminutive angels situated along the lake’s beaches.
“There exist ruthless Alphas,” Josie whispers. “However, not everyone seeks to harm others; some of us genuinely desire to assist. I did not require this additional burden. I am already overwhelmed with responsibilities regarding River Moon and the kingdom, yet these wolves…” her voice falters. “These girls required my assistance. How could I abandon them in their suffering merely because they were affiliated with another Alpha?”
I experience shame residing in the depths of my gut for misjudging the formidable being before me.
“I am not the only one undertaking this project,” she remarks with a smile. The allies of my Kingdom have fully endorsed this initiative, dedicating resources and personnel to both safeguard and educate these women. The men you observed last night are my principal benefactors. Cerulean Sea has ensured security by providing robust guards for the territory and appointing female trainers to empower my girls in self-defence and maternal care. Coscaris has granted access to their construction firm to establish a women’s health centre, which will include a school, clinic and
“Coscaris… Is that the same pack that betrayed you?” I enquire, questioning whether I have confused my packs.
She nods, gazing into the distance. “I do not subscribe to the notion of revenge. Betraying Coscaris during their time of need would render me no superior to them. Consequently, I have forged an alliance with them, and we now collaborate closely to safeguard the Kingdom. I will not deceive you; at times it is challenging… yet I do not regret my choice. Furthermore, I could never consider my twin, Celina, an adversary. She is their Luna, and my affection for her is profound.”
My admiration for the Queen increases significantly, as I recognise that, were I in her position, I would not exhibit such forgiveness.
“Some individuals perceive forgiveness as a sign of weakness, yet I believe the most resilient individuals are those who harbour no animosity,” she murmurs.
We maintain silence while seeing the women finish their breathing exercise. Upon opening their eyes and noticing the Queen, they hastily rise and bow to her.
“Your Majesty,” a girl exclaims with a radiant smile as she hurries to greet the Queen. “I am delighted to see you!”
Prior to Josie’s response, the girl crashes into her chest, embracing her with utmost fervour. I observe in astonishment as the girl appears to convey all her affection and loyalty to the Queen through the embrace.
“Nalani, I am unable to breathe,” Josie chuckles, the girl recoiling abruptly.
“I sincerely apologise, your majesty,” the girl states, averting her attention to her feet and tensing her body, as if bracing for retribution.
Upon receiving no response, Nalani gradually lifts her gaze to encounter the Queen’s benevolent smile, causing her to flush a vibrant red.
