Chapter 4 UNEXPECTED VISIT

Luminar paced back and forth in the dimly lit room, her brow furrowed with worry. Alexander had just approached her with an unexpected request-to invite his brother, Jackson, to their pack's territory for a visit. Alexander's enthusiasm was evident, but Luminar couldn't shake the unease that settled deep within her.

The pack's secret, the existence of their wolf nature, had been fiercely guarded for generations. They had managed to live in harmony with the human world, concealing their true identities and protecting their ancient traditions. The thought of exposing their secret, even to a family member, sent shivers down Luminar's spine.

"Honey, I understand that you want your brother to be a part of our lives, but inviting him here poses a risk," Luminar spoke with a firm tone, her eyes meeting her husband's gaze. "Our pack's secret is our strength, our identity. If we reveal it to Jackson, we cannot guarantee that it won't spread further."

Alexander's expression softened, his eyes filled with a mix of understanding and longing. "Sweet heart, I know the weight of our secret, but Jackson is family. He deserves to know who my other family truly are. We can trust him."

Luminar sighed, her hands clenching into fists. She had grown up with the stories of packs torn apart, of the devastation that came with exposing their true nature to outsiders. She couldn't bear the thought of losing everything they had built, their community, and their way of life.

"Our way of life has thrived because of our secrecy," Luminar responded, her voice tinged with emotion. "We have created a haven, a sanctuary for ourselves. If we open the doors to anyone and everyone, we risk losing our home, our safety." Alexander's gaze dropped, his voice barely a whisper. "But he is my brother. We have been apart for so long, and I long for him to know who I truly am, who we are."

Luminar's heart ached at Alexander's words, torn between her love for her husband and her duty to protect their pack. She took a step closer, reaching out to place a hand on his arm.

"I understand your desire to share this part of your life with him, Alex. But we must consider the potential consequences," Luminar implored, her eyes searching his for understanding. "Jackson may be family, but we cannot guarantee how he will react. It's a risk we cannot afford to take."

Alexander's eyes flickered with conflict, his shoulders slumping with the weight of their decision. "I... I don't want to lose him, Lu,I understand your concerns the pack's safety comes first. But All this time when I go to visit him he asks about you and Amethyst I don't want to lie to him anymore."

Luminar let out a breath she hadn't realized she had been holding, annoyed that Alexander wasn't understanding the gravity of the situation. She rub her temples and looked at him , "perhaps we can arrange a meeting in a neutral location, without exposing our pack's secret. We can build trust slowly, without risking everything."

"We can trust him I know him c'mon!" his filled with anger "do you trust me?"

"How can you ask me such a question Alex"

"Yes or no? " he demanded an answer

"Yes I do ,"

"Then trust me with this."

"I will have to talk to the pack members first , I can't decide without them."

"Really Lu really, you know very well some of the pack members won't agree , especially Victor," he said getting more annoyed "well whether you like it or not I need to talk to my family about this and that's final now will you please excuse me I think we have had enough chatting time." she walked away leaving him.

Luminar stood before her pack, her heart pounding with a mix of apprehension and determination. The time had come to address the elephant in the room-the visit of Alexander's brother, Jackson, and the revelation of their true nature. The pack members, their expressions a mix of curiosity and concern, awaited her explanation.

Silence filled the air as She took a deep breath, her voice steady as she began to speak. "My fellow pack members rather my family, I stand before you today to address an issue concerning Jackson, Alexander's brother who will soon visit us. I understand the reservations and fears that have arisen, but I believe it is essential that we discuss this openly and honestly." Murmurs spread throughout,their eyes locked on Luminar waiting to hear her perspective. She continued, her gaze sweeping across each member, seeking to convey her message clearly.

"Secrecy has been the foundation of our pack's existence for generations, protecting us from the dangers that come with exposure," She started. "However, we also understand the importance of family, of connecting with those we love. Alexander's desire to share our world with his brother came from a place of love and longing."

Bob raised a skeptical eyebrow, voicing the concerns of many. "Luminar what if Jackson cannot keep our secret? What if he reveals who we truly are, intentionally or unintentionally? We cannot afford to risk our safety and the harmony we've established.

Luminar nodded, acknowledging the valid concerns. "You're right. We cannot underestimate the risks. However, during Jackson's visit, we will witness the depth of his understanding and respect."

The pack members exchanged uncertain glances, still skeptical but now open to considering Luminar's perspective. She pressed on, her voice growing stronger.

"By inviting him into our world, we have the opportunity to cultivate an ally, someone who will not only understand us but can help protect our secret. We cannot guarantee absolute safety, but we can build trust and strengthen our bonds," She explained, her eyes meeting each pack member's gaze.

Rob replied, more open-minded than the rest and spoke up. "Perhaps there is merit in Luminar's words. If he will truly understand and respect us, he could become an invaluable asset, someone we can rely on to keep our secret safe."

Nods of agreement rippled through the pack, their skepticism gradually giving way to the possibility of a strengthened alliance. Luminar's conviction and persuasive argument had made an impact, bridging the gap between opposing viewpoints.

"You will never learn will you," uncle Victor got up and left them.

"We must exercise caution," Luminar cautioned, her voice a gentle reminder. "We will proceed with transparency and vigilance, ensuring that he understands the gravity of our secret and the importance of safeguarding it."

They all nodded in agreement and left the meeting area .

The day of Jackson's visit finally arrived. Alexander had left early to go out of the forest to pick him.Jackson had carried nothing else but his bag full of weird tools and maps. As they went deeper into the forest, Jackson couldn't help but wonder why his brother's house was located deep into the forest ."Wait and watch ," was all he said.

They had finally arrived outside a huge cave that was decorated with different animal fur and plants,"welcome home,"Alexander said standing in front of the cave . Jackson burst into laughter " you must be joking right," Alexander let at a slight howl and another one followed but coming from the cave .Running out of the cave. Luminar's sleek, silver-gray fur glistened in the sunlight, and her vibrant blue eyes sparkled with joy. She bounded towards Alexander and Jackson, her wagging tail swaying like a pendulum of happiness.

"Holy shit!" Jackson shouted with a trembling voice as he reached out for his firearm and fired it towards Luminar. She posed in fear fortunately he missed Luminar by an inch the rest of the pack rose from the shadows growling, "guys it was an accident he didn't mean to" Alexander said trying to calm the pack down , Jackson full of fear fired another shot and this time the wolves were ready to pounce "stop it,"Alexander pushed his brother to the ground and retrieved the firearm. Then they heard a howl , strong and firm ,it was coming from Luminar as she was asking the pack to step down, they stopped growling but still stood on guard.

He looked at Luminar who was traumatized and saw her life almost flash before her eyes. "Are you okay, tell are you okay ?" Luminar transformed back into human form and sat still in silence. Jackson was set aback upon what he had just witnessed, he stood up and rubbed his eyes several times. "Wa..was.. wasn't she a wolf a couple of minutes ago?" he asked with a stammering voice still in disbelief

"Jackson, meet my wife Luminar" Alexander said, gesturing towards his beautiful she-wolf. "She's my mate, and together, we lead our pack in this forest." Jackson's eyes widened with astonishment. He had always known about his brother's peculiar connection with animals, but he had never imagined it would extend to wolves, rather having one as a partner. "You mean... you're a part of their family , a wolf pack" he asked, his voice filled with curiosity.

Alexander nodded, a sense of pride emanating from him. "Yes, Jackson These wolves are my family, just as much as you are."Jackson skepticism began to wane as he observed the unity and affection within the pack. He watched as the other wolves stared him down , their eyes filled with unity and ready to defend each other. They all transformed back into humans and Jackson watched mesmerized by their beauty and existence, they approached Luminar to make sure she was okay and she affirmed them she was fine and there's nothing to worry about.

They went inside the den, they all walked in silence as they reached the living room and found uncle Victor rocking on his rocking chair, and he was laughing " I told you,I told you but you never listen, you saw it for yourself and almost died," he continued to laugh like a maniac. They all sat down and immediately uncle Victor got up and left.

Alexander with a calm voice begun to speak" I sincerely apologize on behalf of my brother he didn't mean any harm, he was just..."

"He just what? What if he had not missed what would you have done huh ?" Iris stared at him with her blue crystal eyes filled with anger "and if he did I swear to the almighty Alpharian ancestors I would have torn you into freaking pieces you id..."

"Iris," Luminar called her "it's okay, I m okay." She forced out a smile "we are all family here,"

Alexander urged his brother to make an introduction and apologize " I m really really sorry, I had no idea my brother's family were creatures, I mean .... its just hard to believe," his apology seemed like a joke " My names are Jackson Mendez, I'm a head scientist and politician back in the city, " they all looked at him with cold eyes .

Jackson was a tall figure, standing head and shoulders above most people in the room. He had messy brown hair that fell in disheveled waves, giving him a slightly unkempt appearance. His most notable facial feature was a slightly big nose that adds character to his face,his lips were full.Despite his height, his build suggests a lack of physical training, giving him a somewhat bulky and unrefined presence,he wasn't as attractive as his brother.

Luminar's eyes locked onto Jackson and an unspoken understanding seemed to pass between them. She gently pressed her head against Alexander's chest.

Alexander sensed his brother's uncertainty. "Jackson, I know this is a lot to take in, but I promise you, they mean no harm. They are protectors of these woods, guardians of nature's harmony." He then introduced each member of the pack.

"We also have a beautiful daughter, Amethyst, I assume she is out in the forest playing but she will be back soon."

Jackson hesitated for a moment, then let out a nervous chuckle. "I've always thought you were the strange one, Alex, but I see now that there is something extraordinary about this connection you share with these creatures, I believe...." Just as he was talking they heard a howl coming followed by running footsteps, it was Amethyst. She had with her three rabbits that she had carried by the ears with her fangs. As she entered the room , she had noticed a face that wasn't familiar. She dropped the rabbits and begun to growl at Jackson "Ame,"Luminar called her and she shook her head . Amethyst transformed back into human form and stared at Jackson,she walked to Luminar without dropping her gaze. Luminar explained to her who he was and their relation, but Amethyst didn't show any joy at the visitation of her uncle. "Hi little one," he said with a smile stretching his hand to greet her , but she just looked at it with no words. "Mama Grandpa Victor told me that you were killed so I came rushing I was so worried ,"

"Don't listen to everything he tells you"

"But he was right,he doesn't look or smell like a wolf,"she whispered "that's because he is full human just like your dad." She still didn't seem to like him at all, she pulled Alexander in excitement to show him what she caught, "I m proud of you sweet heart, we shall have them for dinner on a fire isn't it?" Amethyst nodded with excitement.

Amethyst relished the freedom that came with her newfound size and strength. After months of grappling with her transformation, she had finally learned to embrace her wolf self and human self. The woods became her sanctuary, a place where she could be herself without judgment or fear. On this particular day, she ventured deeper into the forest, basking in the solitude.

As she frolicked through the verdant foliage, her acute senses picked up on a faint rustling sound. Her wolf senses perked up, and she froze, straining to discern the origin of the noise. Amethyst felt a twinge of unease, but her newfound bravery urged her forward, curiosity leading the way.

Following the sound, she maneuvered her way through the underbrush, her agile form gliding through the forest with grace. The anticipation tingled in her veins, her heart pounding with a mix of trepidation and excitement. As she pushed deeper into the woods, the source of the noise drew nearer.

Finally, she stumbled upon a clearing, bathed in dappled sunlight filtering through the thick canopy. Standing in the center was a young wolf, similar in size to her. Its fur was a striking blend of gray and black, blending with the surrounding shadows. The wolf's ears were perked up, much like hers, and its piercing eyes met her own gaze.

Amethyst with a look of disbelief approached cautiously, sensing both curiosity and caution emanating from the other wolf. However, as she drew nearer, she could see that this wolf was not as friendly as it seemed. Its hackles were raised, and a low growl escaped its throat. Instinct took over. In an instant and Amethyst transformed into her wolf self, her human form melting away, replaced by a magnificent wolf. Her silver fur shimmered in the sunlight, and she stood tall, fierce and unyielding. Growling back, she met the young wolf's hostility with unwavering determination.

The two wolves circled each other warily, the tension crackling in the air. Amethyst's eyes locked onto her opponent's, her resolve unyielding. She would not back down, not in the face of this challenge.

With a sudden lunge, the young wolf launched itself at Amethyst, teeth bared and claws unsheathed. But she was ready, she met the attack head-on, her own snarls and growls blending with the sounds of the forest.

The battle waged on, a clash of wills and strength. The young wolf fought fiercely, driven by its own instinct for survival. But Amethyst was no longer the timid girl she once was. She fought back with all the might she possessed, her muscles rippling with power and agility.

As the dust settled and the battle subsided, the two wolves stood panting, their chests heaving. Amethyst's shiver fur was matted and dirt-streaked, but her brown eyes glowed with triumph. The young wolf, realizing it had met its match, lowered its head in submission, conceding defeat.transformation into a wolf had not only granted her physical prowess but also an unwavering bravery and resilience. She had found her place in the wild, embracing her true nature and defending it with all her might.

Amethyst and the young male wolf reverted to their human forms, their bodies morphing and reshaping until they stood before each other as two bewildered children. Both were in a state of shock, their eyes wide with disbelief. Amethyst's heart pounded with a mixture of excitement and confusion. How could there be another wolf like her when her mother had always told her they were the only ones, Her mother's words echoed in her mind, reminding her of the secrets her family had kept hidden. She took a deep breath, gathering her courage, and turned to the young wolf. "Who are you?" she asked, her voice laced with curiosity.

The young wolf, now in human form, brushed a hand through his black-greyish looking hair. His eyes had a certain mixture of colors that one couldn't tell whether they were blue or green. Now held a touch of vulnerability. "My name is Fang," he replied "I am from a pack that lives deep down within the forest. The Alpharian Kingdom to be precise. Her eyebrows furrowed as she absorbed his words. "Lives?" she repeated, puzzled. "How?"

"Where are you from and what is your name ?" he asked "My ....my name is Amethyst and I live within the forest too."

They both looked at each other for sometime , questions ran through Amethyst's mind."You're the first wolf I've encountered other than my family," she admitted, her voice filled with a mix of wonder and confusion. "My mother always told me we were the only ones."

He looked at her and laughed, "no no they are so many different werewolves in the Alpharian Kingdom,"

Amethyst's mind buzzed with questions, her curiosity spiraling. "But what are you doing here?" she asked. "And why did you want to attack me earlier?"Fang's gaze softened, remorse flickering in his eyes. "I had heard rumors of other wolves roaming these woods," he explained. "I was curious and wanted to investigate. When I saw you, I mistook you for a threat, not realizing you were like me.And girl you got some moves you have my respect."

Understanding dawned on Amethyst and she felt a newfound kinship with Fang.They were both young wolves navigating a world filled with uncertainty and danger. The encounter that had initially sparked hostility now held the promise of friendship and solidarity.

As they stood there, the two young werewolves shared secrets hung heavy in the air.

Each day Amethyst and Fang's friendship grew strong ,unbreakable, and a secret ,as they spent countless days exploring the woods, sharing laughter, and discovering the secrets of their shared existence. Amethyst marveled at Fang's bravery and kindness, while he admired her tenacity and unwavering spirit. They became each other's confidants, finding solace in the bond they had forged.

One afternoon, he led her on a secret journey to the kingdom of the Alpharians." You have never been to the Alpharian kingdom isn't it?" She nodded"okay close your eyes," he held her hand to lead the way. They reached at a point that wasn't that noticable "open your eyes," he whispered. It was an unbelievable jaw dropping moment for Amethyst, she had never seen any other wolves apart from her family. Everywhere she looked they were different werewolves both in wolf and human shape,with different colors of fur."Welcome to the Alpharian kingdom," she didn't say a word as she was still trying to process what was happening at the moment .

He gave her a tour around, however,he kept her identity to himself.They frolicked in meadows of vibrant wildflowers, swam in crystal-clear lakes, and soared through the sky on the backs of majestic winged creatures. Fang took her to one last place, the den of the alpharian stones. He had explained to her all the purposes of each colored stone and how powerful it is "how do you know so much about these stones ?" She wondered "I will be the guardian soon. "

While they were there Fang presented her with a precious gift-a purple stone that shimmered with an otherworldly glow, its hue perfectly matching her name. The stone held within it a touch of magic, radiating a sense of protection, belonging and good luck. Amethyst cherished it, treasuring the bond it represented.

As the sun began its descent and darkness settled over the Alpharian land, Amethyst's heart grew heavy with the knowledge that she had to return home. Her mother would be waiting, she thanked him with a bright smile and hug and bid farewell to him , he felt like butterflies were and he waved good bye watching her live .

When she arrived at the edge of the woods, she saw her mother, her eyes filled with worry and relief. But her relief quickly turned to anger as she realized how long Amethyst had been gone.

"Where have you been? I've been searching for you everywhere!" Luminar's voice trembled with a mixture of fear and fury. Amethyst's heart sank. She knew she had caused her mother distress, but revealing the truth about her adventures and friendship with Fang seemed impossible in that moment. "I was within the forest, Mama," she replied, her voice strained and filled with guilt. "I lost track of time while playing." Luminar's keen wolf senses picked up on the scent she has smelt before she got closer to her and sensed something else too , the purple stone,Her eyes narrowing as she recognized it. She moved closer to Amethyst her voice low and controlled.

"Do not lie to me, Amethyst," her mother's words sliced through the air. "I can sense the truth. Tell me where you've been and who gave you that stone." Amethyst's tears spilled over, her voice quivering with a mixture of fear and sadness.The weight of her lies pressed heavily on her chest, tears in her eyes. "I... I met someone, Mama," she confessed, her voice barely above a whisper. "His name is Fang, he's a werewolf just like us and we became friends. He took me to the land of the Alpharians. I didn't mean to worry you, but I couldn't resist the adventure." Her mother's anger flared, her eyes blazing with fury and concern. "You endangered yourself !" she exclaimed. "You must understand the risks of our existence. Why did you lie to me?" Amethyst, now sobbing uncontrollably, found the strength to meet her mother's gaze. "I was scared," she choked out. "Scared of disappointing you, scared of losing the freedom I had found. I didn't want you to worry, but I know I was wrong. I'm so sorry, Mama."

Her mother's expression expression didn't soften at all as she looked at her tear-streaked daughter. "To the den now!" She exclaimed

Luminar went to the den and had explained everything to Alexander and Everyone else , however Jackson looked puzzled and was eager to know what she meant. "You gave her too much freedom I knew such a thing would happen but no uncle Victor just blabbers rubbish,"uncle Victor said with a sarcastic voice "I think it's high time she knew the truth " Alexander said with a calm voice. Everyone else nodded in agreement , Jackson still baffled. "You can't keep the truth from her anymore" Grandma Luna replied "she's growing, she needs to know"

"What exactly are you guys talking about," Jackson asked but no response.

The night grew dark , and a crescent moon immerged casting an ethereal glow over the dense forest surrounding the pack's cave. Luminar stood by the entrance, waiting for Amethyst. While she was waiting , Jackson was hiding near by wanting to Eavesdrop on their conversation .Her eyes fixed on the silver light filtering through the ancient trees she couldn't sense his presence. The whispers of the wind carried tales of secrets, and she couldn't help but feel an unsettling energy coursing through her veins.

Amethyst's heart raced with anticipation and a touch of fear. She knew little of her mother's past, apart from the legends shared in hushed tones by her aunts and grandparents. The time had come for Luminar to unravel the truth about her heritage, to uncover the reasons behind her exile and the forbidden love that sparked the downfall of her reign.

Lost in thought, Luminar nearly jumped as the sound of footsteps echoed from behind her. She spun around, her heart pounding. It was her Amethyst, her hair shimmering like moonlight.

"Mama,you called for me what are you doing here alone in the darkness?" Amethyst's voice was a mixture of concern and caution."I need you to know something my child ," Luminar said, her voice trembling slightly. "And I need you understand why mother had to give up everything, why she was exiled."

Amethyst's eyes held a hint of confusion as she gazed at her mother . Her voice filled with a mixture of sorrow and determination. "My love for your father, Alex, was the catalyst that shattered tradition and defied the laws of our people, the Alpharian's" Amethyst's eyes grew big "The Alpha Council couldn't accept the union between a human and a werewolf, especially not from our noble bloodline and considering that I was their Queen, I made the ultimate sacrifice-to protect your father and to keep you safe." Amethyst's mind swirled with a torrent of emotions-pride for her mother's bravery, anger at the unjust laws, and an unwavering determination to reclaim what was lost. "I....i didn't......, I m so sorry, but I didn't you tell me earlier?"

"I didn't want to..... I was scared, and all I wanted to do was protect you " her mother replied in a trembling voice as though she was about to cry " will you let the shadows of the past define us any longer. Don't you need to fight for what's right, for the unity between humans and werewolves." Luminar's tears flowed down her face as she hugged her daughter. "Here I believe this belongs to you "she gave her the stone fang gave her, "do you know that this stone can....." "Give one protection and good luck" Amethyst interrupted her. "Where did you learn this?" her mother asked "Fang"she replied with a big smile "Look at my necklace," Amethyst looked at her mother's necklace that looked like a Crescent moon, the sun, waves and a mountain. She had explained to her about how she used the necklace to save her when she was almost a year old. "It has four different stones and there combination is the most powerful,it was given to me by my mother and I have had it for many years,it must never fall into the wrong hands or it' ll cause destruction.I 'll give it to you when the right time comes and...." Luminar paused upon hearing rustling in the woods "who is there , I demand an answer who is there!"she exclaimed "don't worry, don't worry it's just me, I was taking care of some business in the bushes I didn't notice you." Jackson lied to them. "I think that's enough sharing for tonight,you need to get some rest." Luminar urged Amethyst.